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Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349Echoing Trump's infamous claim he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and not lose support, Rudy Giuliani said today the president could shoot former FBI director James Comey and not be prosecuted.

'In no case can he be subpoenaed or indicted,' said Rudy Giuliani to HuffPost Sunday. 'I dont know how you can indict while hes in office. No matter what it is.'

This latest outlandish claim from Giuliani came after he earlier confirmed that Trump will not pardon himself during Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian collusion.

'It's not going to happen,' Giuliani said on NBC's Meet the Press. 'The president has no need to do that, he's done nothing wrong.'

The former New York city mayor admitted such a controversial move by the president could lead to impeachment proceedings in Congress.

'It would probably lead to immediate impeachment,' he said.

Rudy Giuliani said of President Trump: 'He has no intention of pardoning himself"

President Trump's lawyers suggested in a letter to the special counsel that the president could terminate the investigation or pardon himself

Rudy Giuliani distanced himself from the letter, which was written before he joined the president's legal team: 'I would prefer to put emphasis on the fact he didn't do anything wrong. I mean, he didn't obstruct'

No president in American history has ever pardoned himself. There are also questions if he could pardon himself. Presidential pardoning power is broad but not limitless and several legal scholars believe a president could not pardon himself from federal charges.

Giuliani argued Trump can pardon himself - he just won't.

'He has no intention of pardoning himself, but that doesn't say he can't,' he told ABC's 'This Week.' 'I think the political ramifications of that would be tough.'

The former New York City Mayor also distanced himself from arguments made by Trump's legal team in a 20-page letter to special counsel Robert Mueller, obtained by theNew York Times, that postulates the president cannot legally obstruct the Russia investigation because the Constitution empowers him to, 'if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.'

'I didn't make the argument, but I agree with most of it as any lawyer. I probably would've organized it differently,' he said on NBC News. 'I agree with about 80 percent of what he wrote.'

'I would prefer to put emphasis on the fact he didn't do anything wrong. I mean, he didn't obstruct.'

The letter was written by two of the president's lawyers at the time, John Dowd and Jay Sekulow, and was written before Giuliani joined the president's legal team.

Giuliani said on ABC that Mueller has not responded to that January letter.

He also defended Trump's shifting explanations about a 2016 meeting with Russians at Trump Tower that included his son, Donald Trump Jr.

'This is the reason you don't let the president testify' as part of Mueller's probe, Giuliani told ABC. 'Our recollection keeps changing, or we're not even asked a question and somebody makes an assumption.'

He compared the situation with the president to his statements that Trump repaid his attorney Michael Cohen's $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels, allegedly so she wouldn't talk about an affair with the president, which Trump has denied having.

'Happened to me with the whole situation of repaying the money that was laid out by Cohen,' Giuliani said. 'In my case I made an assumption and then we corrected and I got it right out as soon as it happened. I think that's what happened here.'

Daniels' attorney Michael Avenatti slammed Giuliani's comment as an 'admission' that Trump was aware of the repayment before the former mayor joined the legal team in April.

'This is why I love it every time Mr. Giuliani speaks. He just acknowledged that BEFORE he joined Mr. Trump's team on Apr. 19, Trump was aware of the repayment to Cohen and lied about it. Rudy: under the law that's called an 'admission' and it's very damaging. Pls keep talking.'

Giuliani said on Thursday Trump mostly ignores Avenatti.

It's been questioned why the president, who tweets frequently about the investigations surrounding his administration, rarely attacks Daniels' attorney, who is a constant presence on TV and social media.

'I don't think the president pays much attention to him really,' Giuliani told Business Insider. 'I mean he tries to engage us. He wanted to debate me and I laughed at it.'

The former mayor added that Trump thinks Avenatti is 'a fool' and the president 'probably feels terrible that he's caused so many problems for Michael Cohen, who doesn't deserve it.'

Cohen is now under criminal investigation in New York for whether he violated campaign-finance laws or committed bank fraud with his payment to Daniels.

Giuliani also addressed questions about whether or not Trump will testify to Mueller, noting most lawyers don't want their clients to take the stand.

Stormy Daniels' attorney Michael Avenatti slammed Rudy Giuliani's comment: 'This is the reason you don't let the president testify' as 'our recollection keeps changing'

Rudy Giuliani said on President Trump mostly ignores attorney Michael Avenatti.

Rudy Giuliani said President Trump 'probably feels terrible that he's caused so many problems for Michael Cohen' who is under investigation for a payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels

'Every lawyer he has including this one always wants their client not to testify,'he said on 'Meet the Press.'

But, he added, 'the president wants to testify... he believes he's innocent, I believe he's innocent.'

The concern among Trump's legal team is if the president testifies he risks exposing himself to accusations of lying to investigators, which isa potential crime or impeachable offense.

Giuliani said on ABC he doesn't know whether Mueller has concluded his investigation into the alleged collusion charge but 'I've got a feeling he did. I have a feeling that collusion has come up completely empty.'

But it was the topic of whether or not Trump would pardon himself that was subject to most of Sunday morning's chatter.

And there appeared to be wide-spread agreement that if he can pardon himself, he shouldn't.

Preet Bharara, the former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York who was fired by Trump, said it would be 'outrageous' if the president pardon himself.

'I think it would be outrageous for a sitting president of the United States to pardon -- I think if the president decided that he was going to pardon himself, I think that it is almost self-executing impeachment,' he said on CNN's 'State of the Union.'

House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, a Republican, also weighed in against the idea.

'I don't think a president should pardon themselves,' he said on CNN.The number of people seeking exorcism for demonic possessions is rising.

In April, the Vatican ran a training course for priests brought on by the increasing demand for exorcisms.

The clergymen were told the number of possessions was bought on by a decline in the Christian faith and easier access to Satanism and black magic through the internet.

Pope Francis warned against the constant struggle of the devil as he trained Priests to perform exorcisms

He said: '[People should] not think of the Devil as myth, a representation, a symbol, a figure of speech or an idea'

Pope Francis also said that life can be 'a constant struggle against the devil' and people should 'not think of the Devil as myth, a representation, a symbol, a figure of speech or an idea.

'This mistake would lead us to let down our guard, to grow careless and end up more vulnerable'.

In the US, the number of priests that perform exorcisms has more than quadrupled from twelve to fifty in the last ten years.

One leading psychologist and professor at Columbia University has said he believes in possession and that many other mental health professionals agree with him but are 'hesitant to speak out'.

Pictured: Francisco Goya's 1795 painting, St. Francis Borgia Helping a Dying Impenitent

In the US, the number of priests that perform exorcisms has more than quadrupled from twelve to fifty in the last ten years

Dr Richard Gallagher assesses of cases of possible possession and judges whether a person is mentally ill or possessed.

'There is very strict criteria for determining the person's problem. I am not just intuiting. I'm dealing with it from a very scientific point of view,' he told the Telegraph.

He said he has evaluated cases referred to him by a range of religious leaders including priests, rabbis, and Christian ministers.

The professor said that his believes aren't far from the American mainstream and that three-quarters of Americans believe in the Devil.Spencer Herron was arrested Friday for allegedly having sex with two students

A former Teacher of the Year has been arrested for allegedly having sex with two students and groping another.

Spencer Herron, 48, is charged with three counts of sexual assault for the alleged actions that occurred while teaching at Kell High School in Marietta, Georgia.

The 15-year video production teacher was Teacher of the Year for Cobb County during the 2016-2017 school year.

He was arrested at his home in Acworth Friday and is being held on $55,220 bail.

The arrest warrant states that during the same school year he was honored, Herron repeatedly texted a female student to meet with him on school grounds, telling her it was for a club meeting.

Then during those meetings the student said he groped her for a total of four times.

Arrest warrants say Herron allegedly had sex multiple times with two other students between 2016 and 2018.

According to Channel 2 Action News, a female student told police she had unprotected sex with her teacher multiple times at his request.

Cobb County Police said the sexual assault continued into the 2017-2018 school year.

One of the victims said Herron told her to 'be quiet' when she began crying.

Another student said the teacher proceeded to have sex with her after she said 'she did not want to continue', the warrant states.

A district spokesperson said: 'The district is aware of the allegations and has been cooperating fully with the police investigation.'This is the dramatic moment a knife-wielding attacker is shot by police after trying to stab visitors at Berlin Cathedral on Sunday.

The clip shows the man, 53, from Austria, leaping up and down and brandishing the weapon in a tense show down with police at the altar.

He is seen charging at officers despite being targeted with pepper spray, before one of them shoots him in the leg and he falls down.

Police said that when officers arrived they had urged the man to put down the knife and tried to neutralise him with irritant gas, to no success.

Finally, they faced the assailant near the altar of the cathedral, and 'the man was wounded in the leg by a shot from a policeman,' a spokesman said.

Police in front of the Berliner Dom after a German policeman shot a man at the Berlin Cathedral

A police officer was also wounded in the exchange and taken to hospital.

Staff at the cathedral called the emergency services after the 'rampaging man' started becoming verbally aggressive and took out the blade.

Two armed specialists opened fire at the man, who was taken to hospital for treatment.

Police in the German capital said they do not believe the attack was terror-related.

The suspect, 53, is believed to be from Austria and was shot in the leg, in an exchange which also saw a police officer wounded at Berlin Cathedral (police presence pictured outside)

Police vehicles are pictured surrounding Berlin Cathedral after reports of a 'rampaging' man

An armed policeman is pictured at the gates to Berlin's main cathedral, one of the city's main tourist attractions

A spokesman said: 'Shortly after 4 pm (3pm BST) police shot at a rampaging man at Berlin Cathedral,' police said in a tweet. 'He was wounded in the leg.'

'Based on what we know so far, we have no information that the suspect in any way had a terrorist or Islamist motive.'

There were around 100 people present when the man started becoming 'verbally aggressive,' police added.

Witnesses told local media that the man appeared 'very confused'.

The shooting comes with authorities in a state of high alert for jihadist attacks after several assaults claimed by the Islamic State group in the country.

The entrances to the building were blocked off with red-and-white police tape and several officers with automatic weapons were patrolling the scene.

Some witnesses were taken away to receive psychological counselling.

The iron-domed house of worship is on Museum Island off east Berlin's main Unter den Linden boulevard and close to the Alexanderplatz shopping district.

Police secure the Berliner Dom after a German policeman shot a man at the Berlin Cathedral

Officers are pictured patrolling the scene after a cordon blocked off the tourist attraction

Like other European nations, Germany remains a target for Islamist militant groups, in particular because of its involvement in the coalition fighting IS in Iraq and Syria, and its deployment in Afghanistan since 2001.

In the worst jihadist attack in the country to date, Tunisian asylum seeker Anis Amri rammed a truck into crowds at a Berlin Christmas market in December 2016, killing 12.

The assault occurred in the shadow of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, a war-damaged landmark in the west of the capital.

A court in March sentenced a 26-year-old Palestinian asylum seeker to life in prison for killing one and wounding six others with a knife in a Hamburg supermarket out of a 'jihadist' motive last July.

In April, Berlin police briefly detained six men amid fears of an attack on the city's half marathon, which drew 36,000 runners.

But they were released when searches of their homes and vehicles netted no weapons, explosives or other evidence.

The same weekend, a German driver in the western city of Muenster ploughed a van into an open-air restaurant, killing two people.

The driver later shot himself and investigators cited mental health problems, not a political motive, as being behind the attack.

Germany's security services estimate there are around 10,000 Islamist radicals in Germany, some 1,600 of whom are suspected of being potentially violent.

Political opponents of Chancellor Angela Merkel, including the far-right AfD party, have charged that the security situation has worsened with the arrival of more than one million migrants and refugees since 2015, many from African and Middle Eastern conflict hotspots.Former President Bill Clinton said he couldn't get elected to 'anything' these days because 'I just don't like embarrassing people' - in direct response to a question about President Donald Trump's fondness for 'personal insults.'

'I couldn't be elected anything now 'cause I just don't like embarrassing people. My mother would have whipped me for five days in a row when I was a little boy if I spent all my time badmouthing people like this,' he said on 'CBS Sunday Morning.'

Clinton and author James Patterson were on the program to promote their new thriller 'The President is Missing.'

Former President Bill Clinton said he couldn't get elected to 'anything' these days because 'I just don't like embarrassing people' - in direct response to a question about President Donald Trump's fondness for 'personal insults.'

President Clinton wouldn't say if he believed the results of the 2016 election, which President Trump won, were tampered with

Reporter Mo Rocca asked the former president: 'President Trump  this is just factual  is fond of personal insults. I mean, he still refers to Mrs. Clinton as 'Crooked Hillary' in tweets.'

'I don't like this,' Bill Clinton said.

While Patterson chimed in: 'It's been effective for him. It's unbelievable that he became president. But he figured some things out. And I think most people do not like these tweets. They just wish it wouldn't go that way.'

Trump often refers to Hillary Clinton as 'Crooked Hillary,' a nickname he popularized during the 2016 presidential election.

The 'lock her up' chant that came to characterize his campaign rallies are often cited as the heavy animosity Trump created toward the Democratic presidential nominee.

Clinton says it's something he deals with whenever he is home in Chappaqua, New York.

'There's a Trump supporter here in town that-- I walked past his house with my dogs. He had a 'lock her up' poster in his front window. And I said to him, 'If you're gonna do that to my wife, you make sure the prisons are comfortable. Cause you're gonna have a lot of company of your supporters in there,'' he said.

'And he said, 'Obama and Hillary started the second Civil War.' So, there's division. But underneath that, there's a core of fundamental decency that can be really skewed when people feel abused, left out, or looked down on,' the former president added.

He also defended the media's coverage of President Trump and the Russian investigation into the 2016 election.

'I think they have tried by and large to cover this investigation based on the facts,' Clinton said. 'I think if the roles were reversed  now, this is me just talking, but it's based on my experience!  I think if it were a Democratic president, and these facts were present, most people I know in Washington believe impeachment hearings would have begun already.'

But Clinton wouldn't go far enough to say the election his wife lost was tampered with.

'I don't know, I don't know,' he replied when asked if the results were fixed.

He did warn about cyber terrorism, however.

'We got a real serious problem with the cyber terrorism that could go way beyond fixing the elections,' he said. 'And those problems will happen faster if we allow our elections to continue to be tampered with by others.'

In the interview, Clinton also responded to Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand's (D-N.Y.) assertion that he should have stepped down from office after his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky was made public.

'You have to really ignore what the context was,' he said. 'But, you know, she's living in a different context. And she did it for different reasons. But I just disagree with her.

He also said he knew the impeachment proceedings against his wouldn't succeed.

'It wasn't a pleasant experience. But it was a fight that I was glad to undertake. They knew there was nothing impeachable. And so, we fought it to the end. And I'm glad,' he told CBS.

Bill Clinton has been sidelined from the 2018 election because of new scrutiny of his past transgressions with women, the New York Times reported.

He is said to still be so furious about the 2016 contest, the Times reported, that it's raised 'concerns that he could go wildly off message in campaign settings' and harm any candidate he campaigns for.

The Clinton family has slowly been returning to public life after Hillary Clinton's loss in 2016

But the Clintons have slowly re-emerged to public life.

A few weeks ago the family turned to a renewed focus on the Clinton Foundation with a huge gala fundraiser in New York that included VIP packages going for up to $100,000 a pop.

All three Clintons - Bill, Hillary, and Chelsea - were there.

Additionally Bill and Chelsea Clinton released a letter at the time touting the foundation's work both around the world and in the U.S. as part of an 'Impact Report' on their work.

The father and daughter duo touted their work helping farmers in Africa, combating the opioid epidemic in the U.S., and traveling to Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Dominica after the hurricane season wrecked havoc in the Caribbean.

The two sit on the foundation's board but do not receive a salary.Popular mobile firms including Blackberry, EE, Nokia and Vodafone have warned shareholders about the potential cancer risks of phones - but haven't told customers.

They have told investors that if research finds links between their products and the disease that they could be sued by customers.

However they are yet to warn phone users of the potential risks through their adverts and packaging.

Owners of EE, British Telecom, released a statement in its annual report last year suggesting that they cannot provide assurance that people's health won't be affected in the future.

Popular mobile firms including Blackberry, EE, Nokia and Vodafone have warned shareholders about the potential cancer risks of phones - but haven't told customers

Nokia claimed that there had been some research that indicated that the risk of cancer could be increased by the electromagnetic waves emitted from phones.

Brain cancer patient Neil Whitfield, 60, was the first British man to sue a phone company as he believes his phone is the reason for his condition.

He could be awarded up to one million pounds from Nokia if he wins the case.

Mr Whitfield told the Mirror: 'If companies are warning investors there is a possible risk they should be warning people who use their phones and networks.

'They are being selective with the truth and have decided those with money are more important than the general public.'

They have told investors that if research finds links between their products and the disease that they could be sued by customers

Even if the risk is very small and unlikely the mobile films said that they still have an obligation to warn shareholders.

A man in Italy recently successful sued Telecom Italia after he developed a non-cancerous tumour and will receive 7,000 euro a year from them.

It was the first trial court verdict in the world 'to recognise a link between cellphone use and the development of brain tumour'.

Lawyers claim one of the driving factors was the court's refusal to accept studies that were funded by the telecom industry as evidence.

The Codacons consumer protection agency says it is considering a class-action based on the Romeo decision to have cellphones carry health warnings in Italy.

However they are yet to warn phone users of the potential risks through their adverts and packaging

Devra Davis, president of the Environmental Health Trust, said: 'Financial threats from litigation are growing in step with scientific evidence linking phones to health damages.

'Further still, the Italian court decision indicates any firm that requires mobile use as a condition of work faces major liability.'

Blackberry and Nokia warned shareholders of possible legal action in reports to the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Nokia said concerns over the adverse effects on health could make it difficult to keep customers, despite adhering to regulation.

However Vodafone argued that there is no evidence to support potential health risks but suggested that if this were to change it would impact them, while Blackberry agreed.

Conflicting studies have concluded that mobile phones both find links to brain cancer as well as finding no links at all.

A spokesperson for EE said: 'Research into the safety of radio signals has been conducted for more than 50 years.

'The strong consensus of the public health agencies around the world, such as the World Health Organisation, is that no health risks have been established from exposure to the low-level radio signals used for Wi-Fi and mobile communications.

'In line with advice from WHO, the UK Government has adopted the exposure limits developed by International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) who monitor all new research.

'All UK mobile network providers build their networks within these guidelines.'Shocking footage appears to show DPD delivery drivers inhaling 'hippy crack' at the wheel of their company van.

In the video the pair are seen allegedly huffing a blue balloon thought to be filled with nitrous oxide - also known as laughing gas.

The incident is said to have taken place at 7pm at a KFC in a retail park in Romford, London.

The footage was filmed by a concerned motorist who reported it to the delivery company and wishes to remain anonymous.

They said: 'The incident took place on May 15 at around 7.10PM at KFC in eastern avenue retail park, Romford.

'Two drivers appeared to be inhaling nitrous oxide through balloons whilst eating food at KFC.

'The van had DPD graphics on it and the KFC manager witnessed it.'

This picture appears to show DPD delivery drivers inhaling 'hippy crack' at the wheel of a company van

In the images the driver can be seen holding a blue balloon before seemingly putting it to his mouth

'They were so brazen and did not care whether they were what they were doing or the fact that they were in full uniform it was clear to me and everybody else what they were doing.

'Everybody was in shock they even left behind the silver canisters which contain the gas used for the inhaling of the balloon.

'I have reported it to DPD who told me that they will be investigating this matter.'

A DPD spokesman said: 'At DPD we take the behaviour of our drivers and the safety of other road users very seriously indeed.

'We will always take firm action where the conduct of our staff is found to fall below our high standards, and we will certainly be investigating the circumstances surrounding this video.'

Last month DPD drivers were spotted in Simmons Leasow, Birmingham, inhaling balloons in a company van.

They were seen driving up the road, completing a three point turn and parking for around an hour before supposedly inhaling the toxic substance.

Footage of the pair showed one of the men leaving the vehicle and staggering across the road.A grandmother who has lived in the UK since since she was five is on the verge of becoming homeless with her granddaughter after authorities told her she's not a UK citizen.

Gwendolyn Banks, 62, was born in America but moved to Aston, Birmingham, when she was a little girl before working in the city most of her life.

After her daughter Sinead, 24, died suddenly at the beginning of this year, Mrs Banks became a full time carer for her four-year-old granddaughter Sienna.

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Gwendolyn Banks, 62, is on the verge of becoming homeless after being told she's not a UK citizen

The grandmother now faces losing the home she's lived in since the age of 21 because she is not being classed as a UK citizen.

Mrs Banks, who cannot work due to ill health and is a full time carer for her ex husband, was told she needed to claim for Universal Credit for her benefits to continue.

She was previously receiving Employment Support Allowance (ESA) but contacted the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) because she required more financial help to support her four-year-old granddaughter, Sienna.

But the DWP closed Mrs Banks' claim because she had failed the Habitual Residency Test.

She is now going through the appeal process.

Mrs Banks in now struggling to survive on just 80 per week, compared to the 200 per week she was previously getting.

She is also no longer receiving Housing Benefit (around 80 per week towards her 90 rent bill) or help towards her council tax and still has to pay 13 Bedroom Tax.

Mrs Banks said: 'I could not believe what they were telling me.

'I was told I needed to change from ESA to Universal Credit and then they close my claim because they cannot class me as a British Citizen.

'While I appeal this, I have limited money coming in and I can't afford to live. I was born in America but England is my home.

'I have no family I know in America and i don't even have an American accent, it's ridiculous.'

Mrs Banks looks after her granddaughter Sienna, four, who also faces being evicted from her home

Mrs Banks' 24-year-old daughter, Sinead, died suddenly in January this year after suffering a cardiac arrest.

'I am still trying to come to terms with the sudden loss of my daughter.

'And when I enquire for extra financial help to look after my granddaughter, they drop this bombshell on me.

Mrs Banks has not received her full benefits entitlement since the beginning of this month and is now in rent arrears, as a result.

She has been summoned to court and told she is at risk of losing her home.

'As soon as my claim was closed, my benefits stopped,' she added.

'So my arrears have built up and gone over the 1,000 limit, which means I could lose my home in a matter of weeks.

'I have lived here most of my life and I do not want to give up my home.

The grandmother has lived in her home in Aston, Birmingham, since the age of 21 and has lived in the city since she was five

'Where will we live? I can't even afford to feed my granddaughter.'

Mrs Banks' parents met in Ireland and moved to America for a brief period before bringing their young family to England. The 62-year-old has an American passport.

A recent letter from the DWP to Mrs Banks stated: 'We have closed your Universal Credit claim from 19 March 2018.

'This is because you have not passed your Habitual Residency Test.

'This means that you won't receive any further payments of Universal Credit.

'You'll have to make a new claim and provide us with full information to show you are entitled to Universal Credit.'

A DWP spokesperson said: 'Ms Banks' case is currently being reviewed by a specialist decision maker.

'People who have moved to the UK may be asked to provide certain documents when they make a new claim to benefits and this has not changed under Universal Credit.'Slovenia's anti-immigrant party is set to win the country's general election - an exit poll suggests.

The Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) led by former Prime Minister Janez Jansa, is set to come top with 24.4 percent of the votes.

The centre-left party of the Mayor of Kamnik Marjan Sarec, LMS, won the second largest share with 12.6 percent of the vote.

Preliminary results will be issued by the State Election Commission later on Sunday.

Janez Jansa, leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDS), speaks to the media after voting at a polling station during the general election in Velenje, Slovenia on Saturday

Mr Jansa and his wife Urska Bacovnik placing their ballot papers into the polling box at their local station

Mr Jansa warned that his Slovenian Democratic Party may struggle to form a government because of a lack of coalition partners

But it is feared the country may be left without direction for some time as several parties have already signalled they are unwilling to enter into a coalition with the SDS to help them form they majority they need to govern.

'We will probably have to wait for some time (after the election)... before serious talks on a new government will be possible,' SDS leader Janez Jansa said.

The SDS will now need to ally with at least two other parties to gain a majority in the 90-seat parliament.

The election was called in March after centre-left Prime Minister Miro Cerar resigned, weeks before the scheduled end of his term of office.

His resignation was prompted by a decision from the Supreme Court to order a referendum on a railway investment project championed by his government.

The right-wing SDS has received open support from Hungary's controversial anti-immigration PM Victor Orban.

Mr Orban secured victory in Hungary's election in April on an anti-migrant platform.

Slovenian media recently reported that businessmen close to Orban had invested about 800,000 in pro-SDS media outlets ahead of the campaign.

But Jansa's party rejected such reports as 'fake news.'

Slovenians went to the polls for the crucial elections after Prime Minister Miro Cerar resigned in March

Marjan Sarec, leader of the List of Marjan Sarec, came second with 18 per cent of the vote

The Slovenian Democratic Party has been openly supported by controversial new Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban (pictured)An investigation into the Jeremy Thorpe scandal will be reopened after police admitted they may have wrongly assumed one of the suspects was dead, according to a new documentary.

A probe launched in 2015 into the alleged attempted murder of the former Liberal leader's gay ex-lover Norman Scott was closed last year.

Gwent Police had thought Andrew Newton - the man allegedly hired to kill Mr Scott - was dead.

But the force has told BBC Four documentary The Jeremy Thorpe Scandal that new information has come to light, suggesting he may still be alive.

Andrew Newton was suspected of trying to kill Liberal leader Jeremy Thorpe's (pictured) gay ex-lover Norman Scott more than four decades ago

Reacting to the news, Mr Scott, 78, told the programme: 'I just don't think anyone's tried hard enough to look for him. I really don't.

'There must be people who knew him and there would surely be a record of him dying.

'I thought (Gwent Police) were doing something at last and soon found out that absolutely they weren't, they were continuing the cover up as far as I can see'.

The documentary, which is due to be broadcast at 10pm on Sunday, investigates the alleged plot to murder Mr Scott, who was involved in a relationship with Mr Thorpe in the early 1960s, when homosexuality was illegal.

Mr Thorpe, who died in 2014, was acquitted of conspiracy to murder after an Old Bailey trial in 1979.

Hugh Grant played Jeremy Thorpe in the recent BBC drama A Very English Scandal, which concludes tonight with episode three

MP Jeremy Thrope is pictured with his wife Marion outside the Old Bailey

A fresh probe was launched by Gwent Police in 2015 after new claims emerged.

But Mr Scott was told the investigation was over after the force concluded Mr Newton, who was jailed for firearms offences over the shooting of Mr Scott's dog on Exmoor in 1975, was no longer alive.

Gwent Police told documentary makers: 'Enquiries were completed which indicated Mr Newton was deceased.

'We have now revisited these enquiries and have identified information, which indicates that Mr Newton may still be alive.

'As a result, further enquiries will be conducted to trace Mr Newton to assess if he is able to assist the investigation.'President Donald Trump cited Hillary Clinton's former pollster in his latest knock against the Russia investigation, calling it 'a disgrace.'

Trump cited Mark Penn, who did polling for the Clintons from 1995 to 2000, in a tweet on Sunday, noting Penn says: 'Why are there people from the Clinton Foundation on the Mueller Staff? Why is there an Independent Counsel? To go after people and their families for unrelated offenses.'

Trump's tweet refers to Jeannie Rhee, an attorney who represented both Hillary Clinton and the Clinton Foundation in unrelated cases in 2015. Rhee was a partner at WilmerHale at the time.

President Donald Trump cited Hillary Clinton's former pollster in his latest knock against the Russia investigation, calling it 'a disgrace'

President Trump regularly knocks the prosecutors working for special counsel Robert Mueller as 'angry Democrats' based on the political leanings of the bulk of the probe's lawyers

She is the only person working on the special counsel operation with ties to the Clinton Foundation, despite the president's suggestion today that there are more, as Washington Post fact checker Glenn Kessler today pointed out. Rhee also maxed out her campaign donations to Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller, a former FBI chief and a registered Republican, also came from WilmerHale directly to Justice Department probe, but he never worked directly for the Clintons in that capacity.

He did serve as a U.S. attorney while Bill Clinton was president prior to his nomination at the start of George W. Bush's administration to FBI director.

Mueller left the FBI in 2013 and returned to the private sector, joining WilmerHale as a partner in 2014.

WilmerHale has represented people close to Trump, as well as the Clintons, even after Mueller's appointment to special counsel in May of last year.

Another partner at the law firm, Jamie Gorelick, was an attorney for Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump. She ended her legal representation of the president's son-in-law in the Russia probe last July.

Former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort was also represented by WilmerHale until the FBI raid on his home in August of 2017. Manafort's counsel at the time was WilmerHale attorney Reginald Brown.

Trump regularly knocks the prosecutors working for Mueller as 'angry Democrats' based on the political leanings of the bulk of the probe's lawyers.

'The 13 Angry Democrats (plus people who worked 8 years for Obama) working on the rigged Russia Witch Hunt, will be MEDDLING with the mid-term elections, especially now that Republicans (stay tough!) are taking the lead in Polls. There was no Collusion, except by the Democrats!' the president last week tweeted.

His repeated references to the '13' attorneys he believes are working against him includes a special counsel attorney who said in a years-old interview that he considers himself a Democratic voter.

A dozen have either donated to candidates affiliated with the political party or are registered Democrats themselves.

Penn was the chief strategist to Hillary Clinton's first presidential campaign and a trusted aide to former President Bill Clinton during his battle for a second term in office.

He has recently defended Trump against what he has labeled 'storm trooper tactics,' however, and a 'scorched-earth effort' orchestrated by the 'deep state' within the government to take down the sitting president.

President Trump cited Mark Penn (pictured), who did polling for the Clintons from 1995 to 2000, to knock the Russia probe

On Fox News' 'Sunday Morning Futures,' he said of Mueller's probe: 'I still see that we don't have the answer here. How this got started, why there was an independent counsel, why there are people from the Clintons who represented the Clinton foundation on Mueller's staff, all of these questions here remain unanswered, and Mueller seems to have runaway power, using storm trooper tactics almost.'

Asked if Mueller was after Trump, Penn said: 'Absolutely'

Hour later, the president quoted Penn and called the set-up a 'disgrace.'

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer quickly responded, saying 'Special Counsel Mueller is a career prosecutor & law enforcement officer focused on getting to bottom of Russia's meddling in our elections & any possible collusion with your campaign & a hostile foreign government.'

Penn wrote an op-ed in The Hill newspaper in May that got wide spread media attention, in which he turned on the Clintons and cited a 'deep red' state working against Trump's administration.

'Flush with 16 prosecutors, including a former lawyer for the Clinton Foundation, and an undisclosed budget, the Mueller investigation has been a scorched-earth effort to investigate the entirety of the Trump campaign, Trump business dealings, the entire administration and now, if it was not Russia, maybe it's some other country,' he wrote.

Mueller, a registered Republican who was appointed by Republican deputy attorney general Rob Rosenstein to investigate Russia's actions in the presidential election. Of the 17 team members, 13 are registered Democrats, according to reports.

Since the investigation began, Mueller has built a criminal case against Trump's former campaign chairman Paul Manafort while former Trump deputy Rick Gates struck a plea deal in March in addition to agreeing to testify.

The investigative team has issued indictments that have covered 19 people and three businesses. Additionally, former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and Trump campaign aide George Papadopoulos pled guilty to making false statements about their contacts with Russians to investigators.Two teens are missing after one fell into an overflowing creek in Georgia, with his friend diving in to try and rescue him on Friday afternoon.

Bryant Wade had fallen into the waters that overflowed the dam at Barber Creek in Oconee county Friday afternoon, and his friend Cameron Smith had jumped in to try and rescue him around 4pm.

The 18-year-olds' families are emotionally exhausted after holding out hope that they would have been be found by now.

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Bryant Wade (left) fell into the creek where the dam had overflowed on Friday. His friend Cameron Smith (right) jumped in to try to rescue him. The teens have been missing since

Bryant was walking along the top of the dam where the water was rushing just an inch below it when he fell in, according to the sheriff's office

'We're in a lot of pain,' Cameron's grandmother Janet Bagwell told 11Alive.

'We're drained, as expected. No sleep,' Bryant's grandfather, Roger Smart added.

Oconee County Sheriff 's Office said the Clarke County and Madison County Fire say that the swift water teams probed the hydraulic at the dam Saturday with the searches coming up empty.

Meanwhile several other search efforts underway included crews wading through waist deep water, walking down the creek while others searched by boat.

Police were still holding out hope for a miracle on Saturday.

'We hope for a miracle but we understand the reality,' the Oconee County Sheriff 's Office posted on its Facebook page, while noting the water levels had dropped but the creek was still overflowing with recent rainfall.

Wayne spoke to Fox 5 Atlanta about his grandson Bryant, calling him 'a good strong going guy and this is a testimony of how strong the river is people this is real this is really realand these kids need to pay attention to this.'

Wade was set to graduate high school this summer and fell in while walking on top of the dam that was just an inch above the fast moving waters.

Unfortunately, despite the hazardous, fenced in area, Barber Creek is a popular area for young people to hang out.

'Barber Creek is the site of a short battle where the Athens Home Guard fought back Stoneman's Raiders during the Civil War,' the Oconee County Sheriff's Office posted on Facebook. 'The dam and the surrounding beach area attract young people during the summertime in spite of the fact it is fenced and patrolled by security guards.'A paraglider was skewered by a giant splinter after crash landing in a forest.

Extraordinary pictures show how a tree branch impaled 36-year-old Ivan Krasouski, from Belarus.

He was flying near the village of Loshany close to Minsk when a strap snapped and he lost control, plummeting into a forest.

Scroll down for video

Ivan Krasouski, 36, with a sharp log impaled in his shoulder in hospital. He crash landed in a forest while flying his powered paraglider

A shocking picture of the log protruding from Mr Krasouski's shoulder in hospital. He had been flying close to Minsk when a strap on his paraglider snapped

A sharp log spiked his shoulder as he crashed.

Rescuers cut him free from the wreckage of his powered paraglider and took him to hospital, with the giant log still embedded in his shoulder, say reports from Belarus.

He posed for pictures as he waited to have the branch removed by emergency ward medics. Doctors later freed him from the giant splinter.

The paratrike pilot told local media he had crashed into some pine trees and at first he didn't realise he had been impaled.

'I'm thinking: "I fell so softly, all is okay. I'll stand up and go" then something holds me back,' he said.

'I looked and it was a giant log there. I tore my shirt and there was a branch in my arm, thick as a watermelon.'

Doctors treat Mr Krasouski in hospital after the horrific accident. He arrived in the emergency room with the sharp log sticking out of his shoulder

Blood streams out of the enormous wound on Mr Krasouski's shoulder as doctors try to remove the log

Astonishingly, Mr Krasouski retained his sense of humour during the horrific accident, joking that he was like American cartoon superhero Groot.

Groot is a tree-like cartoon which appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics and Guardian of the Galaxy movies.

'Many people came. I told them: "Take out this splinter". And they say: "No, are you crazy? If we take it away, you'll bleed to death." And I was like: "I am Groot!"' he said.A high school biology teacher has been arrested after she allegedly had a sexual relationship with a student.

Miranda Nicole Pauley, 34, has been charged with four felony counts of indecent liberties by a custodian.

Pauley, a former teacher at Patrick Henry High School in Ashland, has also been charged with one felony count of use of a communication system for crimes against children.

High school biology teacher Miranda Pauley, 34, has been charged with four felony counts of indecent liberties by a custodian after she allegedly had a sexual relationship with a student

At least one incident involving the student allegedly occurred at the high school, according to WTVR.

The alleged relationship occurred in November and December of 2017 and May 2018.

Pauley was escorted out of the high school by deputies on Thursday afternoon. She has since been fired from the school, where she had been a teacher since 2006.

Hanover County Public Schools spokesman Chris Whitley called the news 'disturbing'.

'We take these matters seriously,' he said in a statement on Thursday.

'We became aware of the arrest this afternoon and immediately referred it to our Human Resources Department.'

Pauley was escorted out of the high school by deputies on Thursday afternoon. She has since been fired from the school, where she was a teacher since 2006

'While our policy prohibits the release of specific details concerning personnel-related matters, we will continue to work closely and in full cooperation with the Hanover County Sheriffs Office.'

Pauley was granted a $50,000 bond on Friday.

She is not allowed to have any contact with the alleged victim and cannot have contact with anyone under 18 unless they are accompanied by a parent.

Pauley is also not permitted to leave Virginia without court permission, according to the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Pauley is the second teacher at Patrick Henry High School (pictured) to be arrested on sex charges in less than six months

She is only allowed one single trip to the school building so that she can pick up her personal belongings. A preliminary hearing has been set for July 12.

Pauley is the second teacher at Patrick Henry High School to be arrested on sex charges in less than six months.

Walter Summerfield, 45, was charged with four counts of indecent liberties by a custodian in December.

Summerfield, an instructor with the school's Navy Junior Officer Training Corps, allegedly started an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student during spring break.Republican Senators are unsure of what to do between now and the November election so they're polling - themselves.

Senators Ted Cruz and Lamar Alexander are quietly circulating an unusual 'survey' of their colleagues to ask about their level of support for various legislative proposals, some of them highly controversial.

Among the ideas, trying once again to repeal Obamacare, attempting another round of tax cuts, defunding Planned Parenthood, expanding gun rights, and many others.

But the odds of any of these proposals coming to the Senate floor for a vote are slim, insiders told Politico, which reported on the unusual poll.

Republican Senators are unsure of what to do between now and the November election so they're polling - themselves.

President Trump is setting the agenda for Republicans and dominating the press coverage

There simply isn't the support among Republican senators and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell isn't interested in bringing 'messaging' votes to the floor.

Congress often struggles with an agenda in an election year. Leaders don't like to make their members take controversial votes that could hurt them at the ballot box. And the majority party doesn't want to call up votes that could boost the minority party's chances on Election Day.

Still, it's unusual for Cruz and Alexander to poll their colleagues on their options.

Senate Republicans are also aware President Donald Trump drives much of the agenda and the press coverage. His upcoming summit with North Korean President Kim Jung-Un and the Russia investigation are dominating the media.

The Senate still has to pass spending bills for the 2019 budget year. McConnell also hopes to pass legislation on infrastructure and combating the opioid crisis.

But the two senators are exploring options to do more.

'Our hope is to get a sense of the Conference on what legislative proposals can command 50 votes, and what is most import to each of you  additional victories we can achieve together in 2018,' Cruz and Alexander wrote in a May 16 letter.

Cruz is in a tough reelection campaign this fall.

Meanwhile, the New York Times reports Senate Republicans are more optimistic than ever that they'll hold on to control of the Senate.

Senator Ted Cruz, who's in a tough reelection campaign, is one of the pollsters

Senator Lamar Alexander is also polling his colleagues on legislative items; Congress often struggles with an agenda in an election year

In addition to Trump's approval ratings being up and a strong jobs' report, there were two other events last week that boosted their hopes: Gov. Eric Greitens of Missouri resigned, which deprived Democrats of a political weapon they had hoped to use in that state's Senate race; and the ailing Senator John McCain remains in office, passing a crucial deadline that all but ensures there will be only one Senate seat up for grabs in Arizona. If McCain had vacated his seat before May 30, it would have guaranteed a special election for the position this November.

And a new CBS News poll finds control of the House of Representatives is up for grabs.

The Democrats would most likely win 219 seats if the election were today (just one more than the 218 needed to take control) and the Republicans would win 216. With a margin of error of nine seats, that makes the race a toss-up.Mary Harrison, 47, shot her husband Dexter, 49, on Saturday in their Dallas home

A Texas woman admitted to shooting dead her husband because he was beating the family cat, according to police.

Mary Harrison, 47, was arrested for killing her husband Dexter, 49, at their Dallas home Saturday morning just before 7am.

When officers arrived to the scene, Harrison told police she and her husband were arguing and he had been beating the family's cat.

She admitted to shooting her husband, authorities said.

Dexter was rushed to Presbyterian Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Harrison was arrested and booked into the Lew Sterrett Justice Center where she is being held on $100,000 bail.

She now faces murder charges.

Neighbors told KTCT-TC that the couple and their two teenage sons had moved into the duplex in northeast Dallas just months ago.

They also said the cat recently went missing and the wife posted signs around the neighborhood but eventually returned.

'A man got shot over a cat? It's kind of crazy. It's unbelievable,' neighbor Carl Phillips told the local station.

'A man loses his life over a cat. I mean, people love their pets, but it ain't that serious to die for a cat,' he added.Michael Cohen, personal attorney for President Donald Trump, harbored a secret dream to be mayor of New York City, it was revealed Sunday, and even sought advice on how to establish a campaign that would pit him against now-Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Cohen first revealed his desire on election night, shortly after Trump's team realized they'd secured the White House, Axios reported.

'This is the beginning of a dynasty,' Cohen told the group in Trump Tower, according to a source who told the news website.

Michael Cohen, personal attorney for President Donald Trump, harbored a secret dream to be mayor of New York City

Michael Cohen sought political advice on how to set up a New York City mayoral campaign that would have pitted him against now-Mayor Bill de Blasio (pictured)

One of the crowd asked Cohen, who's known as Trump's fixer, if by 'dynasty' he meant Ivanka Trump or Donald Trump Jr. was going to get the political bug next.

'I've already got the bug,' Cohen said.

He added: 'Nobody's going to be able to f*** with us. I think I'm going to run for mayor.'

In the early hours of the morning, as the Trump team left its victory party at the Hilton Hotel on Manhattan's 6th Avenue, a member of Trump's entourage saw Cohen near the bottom of the escalator and yelled out: 'Cohen for mayor!'

Cohen looked over his shoulder and pumped his fist in the air, Axios reported.

Another source told the news website that Cohen sought their advice on setting up a campaign that would have challenged now-Mayor Bill de Blasio.

But, ultimately, Cohen never made a bid.

'Despite many friends suggesting that I run for mayor,' Cohen told Axios, 'I obviously chose not to. Additionally, I believe that Mayor de Blasio is doing a fine job for our city.'

Cohen has faced legal troubles after more legal troubles since the campaign.

He's being investigated by the Southern District of New York on the referral of special counsel Robert Mueller, who is also looking into his role regarding any possible Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Trump allies told Axios they're avoiding Cohen because they assume his every phone call is recorded.

Cohen's private office was raided in April by federal agents and several of his business records were seized, including those about payments to porn star Stormy Daniels.

President Trump is said to feel terrible for Michael Cohen because of all his legal problems

Mueller's investigation has increasingly focused on Cohen and includes his work on Trump Tower Moscow, his personal business holdings and any payments to women who claimed they had affairs with Trump.

Cohen has served as Trump's fixer and worked with him at the Trump Organization before he resigned that post after he election but stayed on as the president's personal attorney.

Cohen is known as a 'fixer' for Trump, and assisted him on an array of deals, including a plan to build a Trump Tower Moscow that never got off the ground but that Cohen discussed with Russian officials even during Trump's run for office.

He's also regularly threatened lawsuits against those who pose a challenge to Trump and has worked with tabloids to kill unfavorable stories about Trump.

After the election, he set up a consulting business for those who wanted advice on how to deal with new president and his administration.

Rudy Giuliani, who's serving on Trump's legal team, told Business Insider that the president 'probably feels terrible that he's caused so many problems for Michael Cohen, who doesn't deserve it.'Millions of churchgoers are to be asked to investigate their local car wash as part of a scheme to expose slave labour.

They will be urged to report any suspicious behaviour or evidence of workers being abused when they take their car to be cleaned.

A mobile app supplied by the CofE will encourage churchgoers to report on a range of things they may see, including signs that people are living on the site, the presence of children working, and suspiciously cheap prices.

Churchgoers will be urged to report any suspicious behaviour or evidence of workers being abused when they take their car to be cleaned

Church members are also asked to give information on whether the car wash boss appears over-controlling or intimidating and whether the body language of workers appears fearful or withdrawn.

The campaign, developed by the Church of England, yesterday won backing from the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby, and from the leader of Roman Catholics in England and Wales, Cardinal Vincent Nichols.

Archbishop Welby said: Over the last few years we have learnt more about the evil of modern slavery and we have begun to understand how it is perpetrated in our communities in plain sight.

Through the Safe Car Wash App we now have a chance to help tackle this scourge which is damaging so many peoples lives.

Signs they want you to look out for... Workers without proper protective clothing, for example boots and gloves.

Evidence that workers may be living on the site, including mattresses or a caravan.

Manager is intimidating or overly controlling.

Workers body language that appears to show fear.

Children or very young workers on site.

Car wash takes cash only or does not provide receipts.

Only the owner takes payment.

Charge for a clean is less than 6.70  estimated to be the minimum at which a legitimate business could expect to make a profit. Advertisement

Cardinal Nichols said: I welcome this very helpful and timely initiative in an area of real exploitation.

As we learn to see this example of forced labour and modern slavery in our midst, we will also become more aware of the presence of this evil scourge in other sectors in our neighbourhood.

The car wash watch scheme is run by the Church of Englands Clewer Initiative, set up under the umbrella of the Archbishops Council, the CofE cabinet headed by Archbishop Welby, as a church campaign against modern slavery.

It estimates that more than six out of ten car washes  around 11,000 of the 18,000 or more thought to be working in England  are unregulated. Complaints over slave labour conditions have often involved Albanian migrants who do not enjoy EU rights to live and work in Britain.

Some prominent criminal slave labour cases have featured gang bosses from a traveller background who have exploited homeless and vulnerable workers.

Rogue car washes are likely to be outlaw operations whose bosses dodge taxes as well as the basic rules that govern businesses, such as paying the minimum wage and keeping proper employment and pay records.

It comes as part of a Church of England scheme to help victims of slave labour (file image)

For this reason people using car washes are asked by the churches to check whether they can pay through electronic banking systems as well as by cash, and whether or not the car wash offers its customers receipts.

The Church of England Bishop of Derby, the Right Reverend Alastair Redfern, said: It is shocking that an act as simple as having ones car washed can help perpetuate the human misery involved with modern slavery.

This practice, and our indifference to it, needs to be challenged and reversed.

Bishop Redfern said the campaign is looking to mobilise the Churchs grass roots presence in an unprecedented intelligence gathering exercise to better understand this problem.

He added that information provided by people using the Safe Car Wash App will help the police and other agencies calibrate their responses accordingly.

The Clewer Initiative said: The more people that use the mobile app the better quality intelligence we will be able to provide to the police and the greater the chance that perpetrators will be prosecuted and victims rescued.Patsy Frankham has been seeing Andrew Newton for at least three years - but she insists they are just 'good friends' and he doesn't live with her

The girlfriend of the prime suspect in the plot to kill Jeremy Thorpe's gay ex-lover today admitted he could be in France and insists police knew he had gone when they came looking for him.

MailOnline understands Patsy Frankham has been seeing Andrew Newton for at least three years - but she insists they are just 'good friends'.

Newton, who police said died 14 years ago, visited her Surrey home on Saturday after MailOnline revealed on Friday he was alive and well and using the alias Hann Redwin.

But officers failed to turn up at Patsy's home until Sunday and the key suspect in one of Britain's most notorious political scandals had gone.

The developments raise the prospect of a fresh prosecution in the 42-year-old case - but police still need to find Newton, a pilot and keen sailor, who was living under their noses all along.

Speaking outside her home near Dorking, Mrs Frankham said the BBC drama starring Hugh Grant was so boring she 'fell asleep' - adding she believed the police visited her house in a 'publicity stunt' to promote A Very English Scandal.

Mrs Frankham said today: 'Mr Redwin is a friend of mine. He does not live here. I don't know [where he is]. He could be the other side of Paris for all I know.

'The police came but they knew I was not here. Is this a publicity stunt? I thought the police dealt with the case 40 years ago'.

When asked if she judged Newton she said: 'I'm a nurse and I've been trained to be non-judgmental to all people  their past, their colour and their sexuality.

'This story is 40 years old, it didn't happen last night, it happened 40 years ago. It past me by then, I did not even have a TV. I don't even remember it. I can't add anything to the story it is not my story.

'Being gay is not an issue, as it clearly isn't now. My life is very quiet. I was sorry I was out yesterday when the police came.

She added: 'I'm more interested in the landslide affecting my garden.'

Police officers are pictured knocking on the door of Andrew Newton's Dorking home where he has been living under a new identity - to find he has vanished. Mrs Frankham suggested it was all a publicity stunt because they knew he had gone

Andrew Newton  the man who allegedly tried to kill Liberal leader Thorpe's gay ex-lover Norman Scott  is living under the alias Hann Redwin in Surrey. He is pictured last week

Andrew Newton (left in 1976) is suspected of trying to kill Liberal leader Jeremy Thorpe's gay ex-lover. In 2004 - the year police said he died - he was photographed wearing a thong, top hat and tails (right), at the Skin Two Rubber Ball fetish convention

Andrew Newton was suspected of trying to kill Liberal leader Jeremy Thorpe's (pictured) gay ex-lover Norman Scott more than four decades ago

Ex-Liberal leader Thorpe was acquitted in 1979 of plotting to kill his former lover, Norman Scott.

Millions have been gripped by the BBC's account of the affair, A Very English Scandal, starring Hugh Grant, which ended last night.

The hunt for Andrew Newton has descended into total farce.

In an astonishing turn of events, police were first forced to admit that the prime suspect in the plot to kill Jeremy Thorpe's gay ex-lover is actually still alive.

Then, when embarrassed officers raced to Andrew Newton's Surrey home to confront him yesterday, they found he had vanished, leaving the humiliated force empty-handed.

Patsy says she was 'sorry' to have missed the police when they turned up at her house yesterday

But Newton was seen walking to the house he is believed to share with Patsy Frankham on Saturday, after a spot of shopping.

Neighbours also confirmed he is alive and well but he fled the cul-de-sac hours before police arrived on Sunday.

Brian Sells, 81, told MailOnline: 'Patsy has got the thin edge of the wedge on this whole affair.

'This man Redwin or Newton comes and goes but there is not pattern to it. He comes at odd times. He comes for the weekend and then you don't see him for a while.

'He must have been with Patsy for a couple of years now. She split up from her husband and moved here.

'I cry for her when I think about how she has got mixed up in this affair.'

Mr Sells, a retired financier, suggested they woill not see Newton again. 'I don't think anyone will catch him now.

'He disappeared once and he will do it again.'

Another neighbour, who asked not to be named, confirmed that Newton was a frequent visitor to Mrs Frankham's home.

He told MailOnline: 'He comes and goes, but there is no pattern to it.

'I would say he is in late 60's and a bit stocky but quite fit.'

He added: 'I have not watched the TV drama so I don't really know what this is all about.'

Investigators believed the former airline pilot died 14 years ago and prosecutors abandoned the case as a trial could not be brought.

But a simple Google search would have revealed he is now calling himself Hann Redwin and been photographed at a fetish convention.

The revelation throws open the extraordinary affair which rocked the nation in 1975 with detectives probing whether Mr Newton plotted murder.

Last night, Norman Scott, 78, the intended victim, said there has been 'a lot of skulduggery' and it is time for the truth to come out.

'I just don't think anyone's tried hard enough to look for him, I really don't,' he said. 'There must be people who knew him and there would surely be a record of him dying.

'I thought [the police] were doing something at last and soon found out that absolutely they weren't, they were continuing the cover up as far as I can see.'

Norman Scott, pictured in his Devon home, said he is outraged that Andrew Newton and Denis Meighan have never had to face justice despite publicly admitting their roles in the plot to kill him

Ben Whishaw, pictured centre, playing Norman Scott in A Very English Affair

Revealed: Thorpe 'hitman's' new name was common knowledge a decade ago and he even called Jeremy Vine's Radio 2 show for advice about spring cleaning This blogpost from 2008 reveals that people familiar with the case knew that Newton was alive and living under an assumed name even though police said he was dead Police face serious questions about their investigation into Andrew Newton's death after it emerged his new name and where he lived was common knowledge even ten years ago. Newton began using the alias Hann Redwin shortly before detectives said the former airline pilot died 14 years ago. But a simple Google search by police would have revealed he was calling himself Redwin including during a fetish convention where he was photographed in a rubber jock strap. Jeremy Vine even revealed that Redwin had called his show around the time he was meant to have died about spring cleaning He also called the BBC for help on spring cleaning at home. Critics on social media have pointed out how easy he was to find after police said he passed away. One said: 'How did police not know alleged hitman Andrew Newton in the Norman Scott and Jeremy Thorpe scandal was still alive?!' He then tweeted an image of a blog post from 2008 saying that he was alive and living under an assumed name. Petty criminal Dennis Meighan, now 71, said in 2014 he was offered 13,500 by Mr Newton and a 'representative' of Thorpe to silence his lover Norman Scott in 1975. Newton, he claimed, did it instead when Meighan pulled out at the last minute, but only managed to shoot Mr Scott's dog Rinka. Prosecutors abandoned the case in 2016 as a trial could not be brought because Gwent Police said to the CPS that Newton was dead. But he was living under his new name in Chiswick all along. He is now believed to live in Surrey but has vanished after his cover was blown. Today BBC DJ Jeremy Vine even revealed that Redwin had called his show around the time he was meant to have died. The called, who said he lived in Chiswick, responded to a feature his long-running Radio 2 show was running Thorpe's alleged hitman had asked: 'How do you clean the mould off an acrylic shower screen?' Mr Vine said he couldn't remember any more about it but hoped 'he got the answer he wanted'. The revelation throws open the extraordinary affair which rocked the nation in 1975 with detectives probing whether Mr Newton plotted murder. Advertisement

Thorpe was the MP for North Devon for 20 years and leader of the Liberal Party for two years during which he was offered a cabinet post by Edward Heath.

He was accused of hiring a hitman to murder his former secret lover in 1975 but was acquitted alongside three other men after an Old Bailey trial.

After his death in 2014, Dennis Meighan, now 71, claimed he was offered 13,500 by Mr Newton and a 'representative' of Thorpe to silence Mr Scott.

The MP feared he would air details of their affair, which took place at a time when homosexuality was still illegal.

Despite the huge fee, equivalent to 140,000 today, Mr Meighan went to the police and confessed to his and Thorpe's involvement.

But he claimed both their roles were covered up to protect the senior politician, potentially by shadowy elements with the Establishment.

A fresh police investigation codenamed Operation Velum was launched by Gwent Police, because they had no links to the original saga.

But the case was dropped a year later after officers told prosecutors that Mr Newton, the only person who could back up Mr Meighan's claims, was dead.

He is said to have taken on the role of hitman after Mr Meighan - an old school friend - withdrew and was convicted of shooting the former model's Great Dane Rinka in 1976.

Mr Scott claims he escaped death after Mr Newton then turned the gun on him, but it jammed at the vital moment.

Mr Newton gave evidence for the prosecution at Thorpe's trial for conspiracy to murder and was ultimately jailed for possession of a firearm.

Yesterday, a plain-clothes detective (pictured background) made the 160 mile trip to Mr Newton's 500,000 home near Dorking, Surrey

Accompanied by a uniformed constable from the local force (pictured), the officer knocked on the door but received no answer

Empty handed: Both officers were left disappointed after no one answered the door of Andrew Newton's Surrey home

In a statement, Gwent Police said: 'We have now revisited these enquiries and have identified information which indicates that Mr Newton may still be alive.

Director of BBC's Thorpe drama questions reopening of case because 'most of the people are dead' Stephen Frears, the director of the acclaimed BBC drama A Very English Scandal, has questioned the point of reopening an investigation into the attempted murder The director of A Very English Scandal has questioned the reopening of the 2015 Jeremy Thorpe attempted murder case - as the investigation descended into farce last night. In an astonishing turn of events, police were first forced to admit that the prime suspect in the plot to kill Thorpe's gay ex-lover is actually still alive. Millions have been gripped by the BBC's account of the affair, A Very English Scandal, starring Hugh Grant, which ended last night. Now Stephen Frears, the director of the acclaimed drama, has questioned the point of reopening an investigation. Speaking at the Hay literary festival, Frears said: 'I don't know what they are investigating.' Asked whether there should be a wider inquiry, he said: 'What are you going to investigate? 'Most of the people are dead ... there's nothing to investigate. They got off, you just have to accept the limitations of British justice.' Advertisement

'As a result, further enquiries will be conducted to trace Mr Newton to assess if he is able to assist the investigation.'

Yesterday, a plain-clothes detective made the 160 mile trip to Mr Newton's 500,000 home near Dorking, Surrey.

Accompanied by a uniformed constable from the local force, the officer knocked on the door but received no answer.

Neighbours revealed Mr Newton has been living there under his new name for several years with his 61-year-old partner Patricia Frankham.

The former nurse at nearby Leith Hill GPs practice bought the property in 2014 before retiring last year.

On Saturday, Mr Newton was photographed dressed casually in a blue shirt and jeans as he returned from a shopping trip.

But, according to posts online, people who knew him described him as 'a seriously strange man' known for his 'distinctly short shorts'.

One resident said: 'She's the sweetest, loveliest neighbour you could ask for. Nobody would have a bad word to say against her.

'She worked at the GP surgery for years and everyone there loved her and didn't want her to leave and now it looks like she's got a boyfriend who was on the wrong side of the law.

'What I don't understand is why it has taken this long for the police to arrive. Patricia moved here a few years ago and you would also see him coming and going.'

Gwent Police did not respond to requests to explain why it took up to eight officers a year to conclude Mr Newton was dead.

Evidence of his name change can be found with a Google search after the death of his girlfriend in 1994 dragged him back into the spotlight.

He gave evidence at an inquest after Caroline Mayorcas fell to her death while climbing in Switzerland the previous year Police ruled out foul play.

Hugh Grant played Jeremy Thorpe in the recent BBC drama A Very English Scandal, which concludes tonight with episode three

Using the relatively unusual name Redwin, he then surfaced again three years ago in a magazine article about aviators who use Redhill Airfield.

In 2004 - the year police said he died - he was photographed wearing a thong, top hat and tails, at the Skin Two Rubber Ball fetish convention at West London's Hammersmith Palais.

In a BBC4 documentary also broadcast last night, Mr Scott said there were at least five often outlandish plots to kill him.

He said these included being dropped from a helicopter and thrown down a Cornish tin mine, adding: 'It is laughable, but it's also very, very serious'.

Speaking from his remote Devon home, Mr Scott said he is convinced there was 'absolutely conspiracy to murder'.

Liberal leader Jeremy Thorpe's gay lover Norman Scott is pictured arriving in court in 1979

'Because the truth hasn't come out, there's a conspiracy to murder me and it won't seem to go away and I have to see it through,' he added.

In February 2017, Mr Scott was sent a letter by a senior prosecutor who said the case was closed as the suspect is dead.

She wrote: 'Various key witnesses are now deceased, including Andrew Newton, who according to Mr Meighan was in the meeting during which the contract was agreed.'

Asked whether there is no conspiracy, he replied: 'No, I know. That's why a guy held a gun to my head and killed my dog and left me to make a fool out of myself the rest of my life.

'People not believing in me - but I believe in myself and I know a lot of people do, a lot of my friends do.'

Yesterday, Mr Meighan, who lives in west London, branded the police reinvestigation 'crazy', adding: 'It's all been said'.

He told the Daily Mail: 'I don't really want to talk about it. I have enough of talking to people.' Earlier, he branded the BBC drama ' a load of cobblers.'

In 2014, he told a newspaper he confessed to his role in 1975 but was given a prepared statement to sign which cleared him and removed any reference to Thorpe.

He said: 'It also cleared me completely. It was a cover-up, no question, but it suited me fine.' It meant he did not give evidence at the Old Bailey.

The three men who went on trial with Thorpe for conspiracy to murder were Liberal party deputy treasurer David Holmes, businessmen George Deakin and John Le Mesurier.

At his large detached home overlooking Swansea bay in Port Talbot, Wales, Mr Deakin told this newspaper: 'I have nothing to say'. Mr Holmes and Mr Le Mesurier are dead.

A spokesman for the Crown Prosecution Service said it is waiting for a new file from police.

The afterlife: What became of 'back from the dead hitman' after police said he had passed away in 2004...? Police said Andrew Newton was dead - and even wrote to his alleged target Norman Scott to tell him so. But in reality Newton was and well - and has consistently managed to outsmart the police and the judicial system ever since. MailOnline has pieced together what the reclusive light aircraft pilot - accused of being a hitman who bungled an attempt to kill male model Scott on a rainy night on October 1975 - for the past 14 years when he was meant to have passed away. Newton - an enigmatic figure who changed his name to Hann Redwin - an anagram of 'Winner Hand' - has dated a string of women, built up his wealth through property and been able to continue with his passion for small aircraft. But his life has also been touched by tragedy in 1993 when a woman he had been dating plunged to her death while climbing a mountain alongside him. Divorcee Caroline Mayocras, 45, and the mother of twin daughters, was in a relationship with Newton when she died in a fall climbing Mt. Eiger. She had never climbed before when she set out on the treacherous mountain with Newton in Switzerland. Newton, who had some climbing experience, survived as his girlfriend perished. An inquest into her death was told Scotland Yard detectives had carried out an investigation as there appeared to be many unanswered questions. But Newton was cleared of any blame. The inquest was told Mayocras, an aerobics instructor, wasn't wearing a safety helmet and a Swiss hotelier had tried to persuade Newton not to attempt to climb the mountain as it was too dangerous and they did not have the right equipment. She had no idea she would be mountain climbing only a few days before she left with Newton believing she was embarking on a walking holiday in the Swiss Alps. But she died from brain injuries after falling 900ft down the west face of the mountain when Newton lost his footing. Newton also forged a close friendship with former property developer Rosalieve Dooley, 68, of Heston, London, and their bond has lasted for more than 30 years. The pair speak regularly and Newton has told her he was not watching the BBC TV drama starring Hugh Grant as Thorpe. Ms Dooley told MailOnline: 'Andrew is a very decent man and a highly intelligent man. 'It is very wrong how people see him and he has always been very reluctant to speak up for himself. 'He has been portrayed wrongly in the past and I think this has hurt him.' His dubious past has not, however, harmed his finances as MailOnline revealed he sold a detached house in an upmarket part of Chiswick, London, for nearly 2 million two years ago. When he took out a mortgage on the property, a neighbour was only too happy to sign the papers as a signature witness. He said: 'We all knew about his past.' The man - who wishes to remain anonymous - added: 'He was very popular with people in the street. He was very fond of going dancing and popular with the ladies.' Newton had once gone to the aid of a mugging victim in the street and chased the culprit, he said. Another companion for the gunman, who served a two-year sentence for shooting Scott's dog, has been Patricia Frankham, 61. The first time the couple came to note was in an airline magazine when a journalist wrote that he had chatted with them at airfield in Redhill, Surrey Nick Bloom of Pilot magazine wrote that Newton had kept his Pipistrel motorised glider at the airfield and was an enthusiastic home builder of light aircraft. Relatives of Ms Frankham told how Newton had struck a deal to house his glider at a farm in the Surrey area. Newton also showed interest in purchasing a Pipistrel from an Essex aircraft instructor four years ago who confirmed the meeting, but said he did not want to get involved after learning of Newton's past. Newton has often been seen at Ms Frankham's terraced house near Dorking and on Saturday was seen arriving at her home with a bag of shopping. Although he has since disappeared, Ms Frankham insists he does not live with her and said he now resides in London. She said he felt the 'truth' would never be revealed and that he was not willing to talk about it again. What had has said, all those years ago, has proven to be a pack of lies and it was only on his jail released and after his trial that he came clean. At his trial in 1976 for possessing a firearm, he falsely claimed that Scott had blackmailed him. He later told the 1978 BBC documentary which was shelved for 40 years and aired for the first time on Sunday night after being revived by award-winning producer Steve Anderson, that he couldn't tell the truth about a conspiracy because of the 'ramifications' for him. When the London News paid him 5,000, he admitted he had been hired as an intermediary of Thorpe's to murder Norman Scott. He later gave evidence at the Old Bailey against Thorpe and his three co-defendants but was castigated by the judge and discredited. Sir Joseph Cantley, the presiding judge, suggested in his summing up that Newton was a perjurer who was 'determined to milk the case as hard as he can'. But with the claims of an official cover-up still not cleared up, Newton may still have some talking to do. AdvertisementReporter Chris Franklin tested out Starbuck's anti-bias training at his local cafe on May 30

A black New Jersey journalist tested out Starbuck's new open bathroom policy, one day after the coffee chain closed 8,000 stores for anti-bias training.

Reporter Chris Franklin spent an entire day at the cafe using its Wifi and bathroom, without purchasing a single thing to see how the staff would treat him.

Franklin, a 6ft 3in, 245lb black man in his 30s, describes himself as not so different from Rashon Nelson and Donte Robinson, the duo who were arrested in a Philadelphia Starbucks on April 12.

The two black friends were arrested after they did not purchase anything, sparking public outrage.

However, the reporter found no discrimination during his eight hours at his local Starbucks in New Jersey, saying 'not every Starbucks employee is overzealous or biased', according to NJ.com.

Franklin visited the cafe on May 30, one day after Starbucks employees engaged in conversations about race and bias and watched a series of videos that depicted black people being beaten by white people.

He visited his local cafe a day after Starbucks closed 8,000 of its stores for anti-bias training following the arrest of two black men from a Philadelphia Starbucks in April

A day after the training the chain shared how employees engaged in conversations on race

He arrived at 9am, pulled out his laptop, and worked on some long-term stories as the cafe buzzed with business.

He didnt buy a single thing to eat or drink, and just consumed a Red Bull earlier in the day.

He kept to himself and used the bathroom without any issues. At one point Franklin took a break in his car and when he returned a couple employees flashed him a smile.

Hour by hour he watched the people around him and avoided interacting with Starbucks servers.

At one point he overheard a customer ask an employee about the bias training held the day prior, to which they responded 'The meeting was boring'.

Around 5:30pm the journalist left slightly disappointed as his experiment proved anticlimatic.

Donte Robinson (right) and his friend Rashon Nelson (left), both 23, were arrested on April 12 after one of them sat down at the store before making a purchase

Video of their arrests went viral and caused a huge backlash towards the company, prompting CEO Kevin Johnson to fly to Philadelphia to personally apologize to both men

The viral video sparked angry protests and calls for a boycott of Starbucks last month. (Protesters are seen outside a Philadelphia Starbucks where two black men were arrested)

'Thats it. Ive been here for eight hours, and the experiment is over. Nothing happened, and that is an excellent thing,' he said.

He added that he has experienced discrimination in his life, including being called the n-word and having people cross the street upon seeing him to avoid passing the reporter.

'Even though 98 percent of the people I interact with every day are decent, friendly, great people, there are still the two percent of ignorant people who exist out there. I can't say I was surprised when I heard about Rashon and Donte. I was disappointed, though,' Franklin said.

'The experiment reaffirmed what I probably already knew. Not every Starbucks employee is overzealous or biased. Sometimes, you can just enjoy an entire day sitting in a Starbucks, listening to and meeting all the different walks of life that come through the door,' Franklin concluded.

'Next time, I think I'll even order something,' he added.Lee Rigby's father has scorned his son's murderer for wanting to send him an apology letter - saying he would burn it.

Michael Adebolajo, 33, and Michael Adebowale, 27, were jailed for life for the horrific killing of the soldier, 25, outside his barracks in Woolwich, south east London in 2013.

After prison sources revealed Adebolajo told inmates and jail guards he regrets the murder, the Rigby family have slammed his attempt at an apology.

His father Phil McClure, 58, of Oldham, Greater Manchester, said he is 'absolutely fuming' at the idea of an apology letter.

Lee Rigby's (pictured left) father Phil McClure (right) has said he would burn any apology letter written by his son's killer Michael Adebolajo

He told The Sun: 'I'm appalled he even thought about writing to us. I wouldn't accept it - I'd burn it. How can he apologise?

'He didn't show any emotion when he murdered Lee did he? Perhaps it's just a stunt on his behalf to get him out early, but it's a big shock.'

Adebolajo (pictured) is reported to have told staff at HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes that he 'misinterpreted' the Koran

His mother Lyn, 51, previously told the newspaper it was the 'ultimate kick in the teeth'.

Adebolajo and Adebowale told passers-by they had hacked Lee Rigby to death to 'avenge Muslims killed by the British Army' on the day of the attack.

But the elder killer is reported to have told staff at HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes that he 'misinterpreted' the Koran.

Despite being considered one the most dangerous religious extremists in the UK prison system, he allegedly told officers of his remorse.

In January this year a caretaker received death threats after carrying out council instructions to remove a shrine left to the murdered soldier.

Greenwich Council ordered the workman to pull down flags and flowers left after a tribute march to the fallen serviceman, following complaints from local residents.

The authority claims the railings where the tributes were placed, close to the scene of where the tragedy occurred in Woolwich, south London, in 2013, had become overwhelmed with political messages.

The caretaker responsible was quickly identified and named on social media, which the council claimed lead to hateful and threatening messages.Special Counsel Robert Mueller is sensitive to 'to not doing another Comey' as the November election approaches, President Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani said on Sunday.

He also charged the investigative team to 'man up' and decide whether or not to subpoena the president.

The former New York City mayor has argued Mueller will wrap up his part of the investigation into whether President Donald Trump obstructed the Russian investigation by September 1, in order not to affect the Republican Party at the ballot box in November.

Giuliani told ABC News on Sunday he believes Mueller is still aiming for that deadline.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller is sensitive to 'to not doing another Comey' as the November election approaches, President Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani said on Sunday

Democrats charge former FBI director James Comey's re-opening of the Hillary Clinton email server investigation hurt her at the ballot box in 2016

'I believe he is, because of the midterm elections. He's as sensitive as everybody to not doing another Comey and interfering horribly in the election. I don't think it had as big an impact as some people think, but they have a right to think that,' he said.

Giuliani also said it's an 'open question' as to whether Trump will testify before the special counsel's investigative team.

And he demanded Mueller's team 'man up' and make a decision on whether subpoena Trump.

He argued Trump's team has provided more than a million documents and made other witnesses available.

'You've got everything you need. What do you need us for?,' he said. 'So come on, man up and make your decision.'

Former FBI director James Comey reopened the investigation into Hillary Clinton's email server in the last days of the 2016 presidential race - a move Democrats blamed for costing her the election. The FBI ultimately found no evidence wrongdoing.

And former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski told 'Fox News Sunday' that Trump's legal team will 'take it to court' if Mueller subpoenas the president as part of the Russia probe.

'They will take it to court, and I believe the court's going to be on the president's side on this,' Lewandowski said.

Simply closing one aspect of his probe doesn't mean Mueller would finished with his complete examination of Russia's actions in the 2016 contest. It is one piece in the large puzzle Mueller and his team are untangling.

This part of the probe was sparked by Trump's request to Comey, as relayed by the former FBI director, for the agency to end its investigation into his first national security adviser, Michael Flynn.

Mueller is examining that allegation to determine whether Trump had criminal intent to obstruct the Russia investigation.

Giuliani portrayed that part of the probe as a contest of Trump vs. Comey as to who has more credibility - the sitting president of the United States or the top former domestic intelligence chief.

'We want the concentration of this to be on Comey versus the president's credibility, and I think we win that and people get that,' Giuliani told the New York Times in May.

Mueller should investigate Comey for perjury and for his role in having information leaked to the Times about memos he wrote on his meetings with Trump -- memos that ultimately led to Mueller's appointment as special counsel, Giuliani argued.

Rudy Giuliani argues special counsel Robert Mueller should conclude his investigation into Trump obstruction charge by September 1 in order not to influence the election

Special counsel Robert Mueller is examining whether President Trump had criminal intent to obstruct the Russia investigation

The administration claims Comey lied under oath to the Senate Judiciary Committee last May when the then-FBI director said he'd never served as an anonymous source. Comey also said at the hearing that he'd never authorized anyone else to be an anonymous source.

That was days before Trump fired him.

Comey later acknowledged that he instructed a friend to disseminates copies of the memos he kept on his meetings with on Trump. But the act was after Trump dismissed him.

Trump has hammered Comey a liar who illegally leaked classified information. Comey has denied that charge and claimed his memos were retroactively classified.

And he told ABC he thinks the collusion investigation is coming up 'empty' for Mueller.

'I have a feeling that collusion has come up completely empty,' Giuliani said.

Like his attorney, Trump also fretted Republicans could be hurt in the 2018 election.

'Now that the Witch Hunt has given up on Russia and is looking at the rest of the World, they should easily be able to take it into the Mid-Term Elections where they can put some hurt on the Republican Party,' he on Twitter in May.

Republicans are expected to suffer heavy losses in November with several of them being kicked out of office. Polls show voters favor Democrats in the upcoming midterm election with Democrats to retake control of the House of Representatives. And Speaker Paul Ryan announced earlier this year he was quitting instead of running for reelection.Muslim terorrist Afsor Ali, 31, got a job at B&Q after reversing his names, but his true identity was revealed when he lost his temper and attacked a customer

A Muslim terrorist convicted of hoarding bomb-making manuals walked out of prison and into a job at B&Q.

Afsor Ali, 31, was able to take up a role at the DIY chain after simply reversing his surname and forename, a court heard.

He spent more than a year at a busy branch near his East London home and was due a promotion to supervisor.

But the former public transport workers extremist background was revealed after he lost his temper and attacked a customer.

Ali, of Bethnal Green, grabbed Harry Flanagan, 25, around the neck after they rowed over the size of a carrier bag at the tills.

Despite his past, Ali was handed a six month conditional discharge after pleading guilty to assault and ordered to pay 200 in fines and costs.

Last night Michelle Flanagan, 45, the mother of his victim, said: How did he get the job in the first place given he would have been surrounded by bomb-making equipment?

They said it was because he gave his name the other way around but both ways his previous convictions come up on Google.

We know they cant take all the previous convictions into account but we feel he has gotten away with it.

Alis terrorist sympathies were first exposed after he was arrested at a protest outside the US Embassy in 2011 by hate preacher Anjem Choudarys banned group Muslims Against Crusades.

Police found a guide to making bombs and firing an AK-47 on his MP3 music player.

They also discovered that he was promoting fellow terrorists in YouTube propaganda videos, labelling the 9/11 attacks an historic event under the alias Asad Ullah.

At court, he also admitted possessing a stolen passport after he tried to flee to France and that he had three convictions for assaulting police officers.

Despite his offences, Ali was jailed for just 31 months at the Old Bailey in 2014 and released around a year later.

Ali spent more than a year at a busy branch near his East London home (pictured: a branch in South London)

Two years later, he was hired at a B&Q in Leyton Mills retail park, Essex, after simply changing his name and failing to disclose his past.

It was here that an animated row broke out between him and Mr Flanagan, from North-East London.

The customer had asked for a bigger carrier bag, to which Ali replied get your own bag.

As Mr Flanagan asked for a manager, Ali pushed him against a plastic barrier and grabbed him around the neck.

On Wednesday at Stratford Magistrates Court, Alis lawyer Costa Cantaris said the attack was not premeditated and his client is now unemployed.

He was due for a promotion that day so it was unfortunate he has now lost his job as he was well-liked by staff and never had a complaint from a customer, he said.

B&Q said: An employee named Ali Afsor was dismissed from employment at B&Q Leyton for gross misconduct in February.

'All usual employment checks were carried out using the name the applicant provided and he twice declared that he had no previous convictions.Former CIA Director John Brennan slammed President Donald Trump as a snake-oil salesman who has shown mean-spirited, malicious, and highly abnormal behavior that has prompted him to speak out.

The nations former top spy under then-President Barack Obama said the current commander-in-chief lies routinely to the American people without compunction while intentionally fueling divisions.

Brennan writes in an op-ed for The Washington Post that Trumps election dealt a serious blow to the esteem with which I held the presidency.

Almost immediately, I began to see a startling aberration from the remarkable, though human, presidents I had served, Brennan wrote.

Former CIA Director John Brennan slammed President Donald Trump as a snake-oil salesman who has shown mean-spirited, malicious, and highly abnormal behavior that has prompted him to speak out

Mr. Trumps lifelong preoccupation with aggrandizing himself seemed to intensify in office, and he quickly leveraged his 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. address and his Twitter handle to burnish his brand and misrepresent reality.

Trump charts his every move according to a calculus of how it will personally help or hurt him, Brennan writes.

His strategy is to undercut real, potential and perceived opponents; his focus is to win at all costs, irrespective of truth, ethics, decency and  many would argue  the law, according to the former CIA director.

Brennan says that Trump is showing a growing interest in destroying [the] mandate] of Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigation into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 elections.

Brennan also writes that Trump reminds him of demagogues who routinely relied on lies, deceit, and suppression of political opposition to cast themselves as populist heroes and to mask self-serving priorities.

Brennan writes: By gaining control of intelligence and security services, stifling the independence of the judiciary and discrediting a free press, these authoritarian rulers followed a time-tested recipe for how to inhibit democracys development, retard individual freedoms and liberties, and reserve the spoils of corrupt governance for themselves and their ilk.

Brennan also writes that Trump reminds him of demagogues who routinely relied on lies, deceit, and suppression of political opposition to cast themselves as populist heroes and to mask self-serving priorities.

It never dawned on me that we could face such a development in the United States.

Brennan, who has been criticized by other intelligence officials for making overt political comments, said he will continue to speak out loudly and critically until integrity, decency, wisdom - and maybe even some humility - return to the White House.

Trump and his allies on Fox News have attacked Brennan and other top national security officials in the Obama administration for planting spies in the Trump campaign to cook up an investigation into alleged collusion with Russia.

Last month, Trump went after Brennan, calling him the 'genesis' of the Russia probe and saying he 'disgraced himself.'

The attack came after Brennan has spent weeks sharpening his own criticism of Trump  including calling Trump's latest demand for a Justice Department investigation of the FBI over its Russia probe a 'disastrous path' for the president.

'This guy is the genesis of this whole Debacle,' Trump vented Monday morning, after he demanded the Justice Department probe whether the FBI 'infiltrated or surveilled the Trump campaign.'Their Netflix sitcom Grace And Frankie dropped its fourth season in January.

And this Saturday, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin swung by an event for Netflix FYSEE, where the streaming colossus plugs its shows for Emmy consideration.

Jane, 80, emphasized her chiseled physique by cinching a gleaming black belt around her midriff for her latest red carpet jaunt in Los Angeles.

Frankie and Grace: This Saturday, Jane Fonda (right) and Lily Tomlin (left) swung by an event for Netflix FYSEE, where the streaming colossus plugs its shows for Emmy consideration

Accentuating her surgically preserved features with makeup, Hanoi Jane teamed an elegant black and nude print SemSem top with a pristine pair of Paule Ka slacks.

She finished off the look with a pair of black slingback heels from Sarah Flint.

Meanwhile, Lily - who previously starred with Jane and Dolly Parton in the iconic 1980 workplace comedy 9 To 5 - went Liza chic in a pink sequined blouse.

Matching her top to a pair of hot pink sunglasses, she modeled powder pink trousers and rounded off the 1980s Miami look with platform white shoes.

When you got it: Jane, 80, emphasized her chiseled physique by cinching a gleaming black belt around her midriff for her latest red carpet jaunt, adding a pair of chic Sarah Flint shoes

Tres chic, darling: Accentuating her surgically preserved features with makeup, Hanoi Jane teamed an elegant black and nude print SemSem top with a pristine pair of Paule Ka slacks

While on the red carpet, Lily and Jane posed with their co-stars Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston, and with the show's creators Marta Kauffman and Howard J. Morris.

Marta Kauffman is possibly best known for having worked with David Crane to co-create the massively successful NBC sitcom Friends.

Saturday's Grace And Frankie event also included an onstage panel discussion, during which Jane and Lily sat side by side and held hands.

Cozying up: Meanwhile, Lily - who previously starred with Jane and Dolly Parton in the iconic 1980 workplace comedy 9 To 5 - went Liza chic in a pink sequined blouse

Jane and Lily play two diametrically opposite women - a retired business tycoon and a relaxed New Age type - who become close friends after their lives are upended.

Their husbands, played by Sam and Martin, come out of the closet in the pilot episode and eventually end up marrying each other.

Netflix FYSEE will finish up June 10 with an onstage talk given by Barbra Streisand and Jamie Foxx, Variety reported earlier this week.

Sextet: Lily and Jane posed with their (from left) co-stars Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston, and with the show's creators Marta Kauffman and Howard J. Morris

Barbra filmed one of her concerts for her new Netflix special Barbra: The Music The Memries The Magic! - with Jamie Foxx joining her onstage.

He had guest-starred on her 2016 duets album Encore: Movie Partners Sing Broadway, crooning Climb Ev'ry Mountain from The Sound Of Music with her.

There is an old connection between Jane, who once told The Guardian 'I think I bought myself a decade' with plastic surgery, and Barbra.

Comradeship: Saturday's Grace And Frankie event also included an onstage panel discussion, during which Jane and Lily sat side by side and held hands

Circumstance: Jane and Lily play two diametrically opposite women - a retired business tycoon and a relaxed New Age type - who become close friends after their lives are upended

Barbra was offered the female leads in the films They Shoot Horses, Don't They, Klute and Julia, but rejected them - only for Jane to take them.

They Shoot Horses, Don't They? earned Jane her first Oscar nomination, Klute her first Oscar win and Julia yet another nod for the prize.

'As I say to Jane Fonda: "I'm responsible for your career." Because I turned down those movies and she got them and she was wonderful in them,' Barbra told Elle.

Jane's latest film is Book Club, in which she stars as Diane Keaton, Candice Bergen and Mary Steenburgen as women who read Fifty Shades Of Grey and end up giving an adrenaline shot to their love lives.With its brooding romances and high drama, Poldark is undoubtedly a very serious affair.

So in a quest for light relief between takes, some of the cast  including Demelza actress Eleanor Tomlinson  have formed a band that plays together on set.

They call themselves Prudie And The Carnes, after being put together by actress Beatie Edney who plays interfering housemaid Prudie  surely the shows least rock n roll character.

The cast of Poldark, who have formed a band that plays together on set between takes. They call themselves Prudie And The Carnes

Actors Harry Richardson and Tom York, who play Demelzas brothers Drake and Sam Carne, complete the group.

Ms Edney, the daughter of British screen legend Sylvia Syms, said she didnt expect there to be so much singing on the show.

In an interview with The Lady magazine published on Friday, the 55-year-old says: Poldark has made me sing and I love it now  but she doesnt shed any light on the bands playlist.

Ms Edney revealed that Tom led a singalong at one script reading, joking: I didnt realise we would be doing Poldark the musical so soon!

Demelza actress Eleanor Tomlinson's album of folk songs entitled Tales From Home

In a recent interview, Harry  the son of a professional musician  said he played guitar and saxophone, but added: Im not a musician. I just have a bunch of fun doing it.

Tomlinson, who has captivated viewers with her enchanting singing voice on Poldark, is also releasing an album of folk songs entitled Tales From Home.

It comes out on Friday, two days before the show, which stars Aidan Tuner as the heroic Ross Poldark, returns to BBC1.She plays feisty single mum, Karen Taylor, on the BBC One soap after joining in 2017.

And EastEnders star Lorraine Stanley left fans gobsmacked at the 2018 British Soap Awards on Saturday night as she looked unrecognisable compared to her usual on-screen appearance.

The actress, 41, 'scrubbed up well' as she ditched her character's signature messy bun and vest tops for a stunning gold and black ruffled dress.

'Scrubs up well!': EastEnders star Lorraine Stanley left fans gobsmacked at the 2018 British Soap Awards on Saturday as she looked unrecognisable compared to her character

Lorraine styled her blonde locks and fringe into a sleek voluminous curly blow-dried hairdo, as she added a slick of glamorous make-up.

The actress' debut left soap watchers gobsmacked as they flocked to Twitter to share their shock over her makeover.

One person said: 'Karen Taylor looks so lovely!!! Scrubs up well #SoapAwards20th.' (sic)

Wow: The actress, 41, 'scrubbed up well' as she ditched her character Karen Taylor's (pictured) signature messy bun and vest tops for a stunning gold and black ruffled dress

Gorgeous: Lorraine styled her blonde locks and fringe into a sleek voluminous curly blow-dried hairdo, as she added a slick of glamorous make-up

A different fan put: 'Wow! Her who plays Karen Taylor in #EastEnders looks so different in real life. She scrubs up well. #SoapAwards.'

While another soap watcher commented: 'Omg Karen Taylor brushed up well!!!!! @bbceastenders #TheSoapAwards.'

During the star-studded awards ceremony, Lorraine scooped up a gong for Best Newcomer.

Loveable: Lorraine won the Best Newcomer category for her character as loveable and outspoken single mum Karen Taylor

The actress was left overjoyed over her win, batting off competition from Emmerdale's Andrew Scarborough and Coronation Street's Nicola Thorp, as she revealed that she is having the 'time of her life' on the BBC One soap.

She said: 'Thank you. I just want to say a big thank you to EastEnders for having me. Its an iconic show Ive grown up watching, its brilliant.

'I want to thank the Soap Awards for nominating me and my mum for being the most inspiring mum ever  thank you.'Their split after less than one year of marriage was confirmed last month.

And Jacqueline Jossa has been hit by claims she quizzed a mystery woman over an alleged drunken one-night stand with estranged husband Dan Osborne weeks after their wedding, according to The Sun.

The pregnant former EastEnders actress, 25, was said to have contacted the woman on social media as she 'felt threatened' and to quiz her over an alleged one-night stand the woman reportedly had with Dan.

Claim: Jacqueline Jossa has been hit by claims she quizzed a mystery woman over an alleged drunken one-night stand with estranged husband Dan Osborne weeks after their wedding, according to The Sun

Split: Jacqueline and Dan, 26, confirmed their split last month

A friend told the website: 'Jacqueline just asked for the absolute truth, every cough and spit of their drunken one-night stand.'

MailOnline has contacted representatives for Dan and Jacqueline for comment.

On Saturday Jacqueline walked the red carpet solo with her wedding rings back on after a source told MailOnline that the pair are living together for the sake of their children.

They detailed: 'Dan has moved back into the family home ahead of the birth of their second child, for just a few days a week. They are not back together, but it is a step in the right direction.'

Last month MailOnline exclusively revealed Jacqueline had contacted a mystery girl to quiz her over an alleged night of passion with her estranged husband Dan.

Claim:Last month MailOnline exclusively revealed Jacqueline had contacted a mystery girl to quiz her over an alleged night of passion with her estranged husband Dan

The woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, was contacted by the former EastEnders' star on social media, after Jacqueline heard on the grapevine that Dan, 26, allegedly had sex with the woman last summer, just months after their fairytale wedding.

In her message, the actress demanded to know if there was truth in the matter, insisting that she won't be angry with her if there is.

Jacqueline wrote: 'Hi, I've just been told something and I need to hear it from you really. I'm not the type of girl to blame the girl etc and all I want is the truth.

'Did you sleep with Dan Osborne after a night in Brickyard? I don't want things to get ugly... so I am just giving you a chance to tell me so that things don't get that far.

'Again I'm not going to blame you it's just a simple yes or no, I really need to know. Thanks x [sic].'

Speaking to MailOnline, the woman claims she had a one-night stand with Dan last August after being mutual friends for a while, and meeting by chance in an Essex bar.

She alleges the former TOWIE star told her that he was 'on a break from Jacqueline and things weren't working out' when they met.

She wants the truth: Messaging her via social media, the actress demanded to know if there was truth in the matter, insisting that she won't be angry with her if there is

'I won't blame you': Jacqueline poured her heart out in the emotional Twitter message, sent earlier this week, where she appeared to be getting closure on her split from Dan

She revealed: 'At the time I didn't want to split them up and felt sorry for Jacqueline so stayed quiet. I thought no one wants to hear that about the person they love and it's not worth them separating over especially as they have a family

'I felt guilty as they were obviously in a relationship, but my friends reminded me that I was told otherwise by him and I was single.

'I felt awful for Jacqueline but didn't want to be the reason they split up. Now they already have, and she has asked me directly I can't lie to her.'

The woman said she felt 'surprised, shocked, and awful' when she heard that Dan was still with Jacqueline and had been consumed by guilt, so felt compelled to tell her story after Jacqueline messaged her.

Coming clean: Speaking to MailOnline, the woman claims she had a one-night stand with Dan last August after being mutual friends for a while, and meeting by chance in an Essex bar - Pictured, Dan and Jacqueline in 2006

Honest: The woman said she felt 'surprised, shocked, and awful' when she heard that Dan was still with Jacqueline and had been consumed by guilt, so felt compelled to tell her story after Jacqueline messaged her

She said: 'Yes I felt guilty as they were obviously in a relationship, but my friends reminded me that I was told otherwise by him and I was single. I felt awful for Jacqueline but didn't want to be the reason they split up.'

On hearing the news of the couple's split, the woman said: 'I thought maybe he had cheated on her again.'

The woman said she felt 'incredibly sorry' for Jacqueline since the split but said: 'She's a smart girl and if she chooses to stand by Dan then that will be her decision.'

MailOnline has contacted Jacqueline and Dan's representatives for further comment.

The couple's split was revealed earlier this week. with reports stating the couple were getting into 'a string of heated rows' and that Dan failed to contact Jacqueline during his recent trip to Marbella, causing their fierce disagreements.

During said trip, Dan is said to have found solace in Love Island star Gabby Allen - but merely as 'a shoulder to cry on'.

Jacqueline appeared on Friday's Loose Women in a somewhat awkward interview, where she refused to divulge any candid details.

She did hint, however, that there is more to her split from her husband of less than a year, than previously thought.

Drama: Reports state that they were getting into 'a string of heated rows' and that Dan failed to contact Jacqueline during his recent trip to Marbella, causing their fierce disagreements

Coy: Jacqueline hinted there is more to her split from husband Dan Osborne than previously thought as she broke her silence on the reports during Friday's Loose Women

With her wedding ring still on during the chat, she confessed she's just trying to focus on their three-year-old daughter Ella and their unborn child.

She explained: 'I'm good, honestly. I think, when stuff goes on at home, it's not normal for it to be everywhere.

'But it's not necessarily true or the reasons why you're not getting on at the moment. That's all I really want to say but I'm all good.'

It has also been claimed Dan has moved out of the marital home and is now living with friends while the couple try to resolve their issues.

Soon after the reports emerged, Dan took to Twitter to vent his frustration at the aftermath as he asked why it was 'men who always get stick whenever a relationship goes through tough times.'

At loggerheads: Dan reportedly failed to text pregnant wife Jacqueline during his trip to Marbella - causing their huge rows

'Worst part': The EX-TOWIE star took to Twitter to vent his frustration at as he asked why it was 'men who always get stick whenever a relationship goes through tough times'

Dan tweeted: 'Whenever a relationship goes through tough times etc.. why is it always the man that gets stick..?

'When in 'public eye', worst part is, the people trying to give me stick etc are people that DO NOT KNOW ME, do not know the situation.. so can please p*** off.... appreciated.'

Another tweet followed soon after: 'It had absolutely nothing to do with me working away, going away anywhere or anything to do with me having a laugh with friends on a boat... Suppose it makes an interesting read for the viewers though eh.'

'It kicked off a row': The actress, who is 32 weeks pregnant, was left furious when Dan failed to contact her, while at a holistic bootcamp with Gabby Allen and Stephanie Davis (above)

This comes after The Sun reported that the actress was left furious when Dan failed to reply to any of her messages, while soaking up the sun at a holistic bootcamp with the likes of Gabby Allen and Stephanie Davis.

A source explained to the paper that Dan was not on his phone much, as the Spanish fitness retreat encouraged guests to take a detox from technology.

However, his lack of contact reportedly infuriated Jacqueline, who was back at home caring for their daughter Ella, three, and preparing for the birth of their second child.

The insider said: 'Jacqueline had been trying to get hold of Dan all week at the bootcamp - she was messaging him all the time and he just wasn't messaging her back.

Bad to worse; However, the couple were thrown into more drama when Dan was pictured looking cosy with Love Island's Gabby Allen during his trip to Spain

Not happy: Dan fiercely hit out at fans who brought Gabby into his split with Jacqueline on Instagram

'He wasn't replying to her much because he was either taking a session or joining in with one.

'That's what kicked off a huge row - she was eight months pregnant at home alone and he was busy at work.'

Hitting back fans who brought Gaby into his split from Jacqueline, the reality star wrote fiercely on Instagram: ''Cosy' with another woman. I am speaking and laughing with a friend. But of course, a man and a woman can't be friends in this day and age can they? Also, you don't know me, don't know how I 'act'.'

United: Jacqueline has since echoed his sentiment on Twitter - and urged her fans to stop sending nasty comments about Dan, as they are still a 'team' despite their issues

Jacqueline echoed his sentiment on Twitter - and urged her fans to stop sending nasty comments about Dan, as they are still a 'team' despite their issues.

She said: 'No one needs to comment and get involved in things they don't know anything about.

'Daniel and I are dealing with things privately as a team, there is always 2 sides to every story. Stop with the nasty comments, no one deserves them.'

It has also been claimed that the pair are simply taking a break from each other - with divorce not an option, as they are still very much in love.She has come under fire again and again for her heavily made-up appearance on BBC military drama Our Girl.

Yet Michelle Keegan hit back at her 'sexist' trolls as she claimed women wear make-up in the army in a cosy chat with The Metro.

The actress, 30, also pointed out she couldn't wipe off her eyebrows as they are tattooed on when she defended her glamorous looks on the show.

'You can wear make-up in the army': Michelle Keegan blasted 'sexist' trolls for slamming her flawless warzone look on Our Girl as 'unrealistic'

Michelle told the publication: I remember when the building collapsed and I got a lot of grief because my eyebrows were still intact. Yeah, there are! Because they are tattooed! I cant dust them off.

Everyone was saying, Oh shes wearing make-up and shes in the Army. You can wear make-up in the Army. And again, its such a sexist thing to point out.

And again people in the Army have got micro-bladed eyebrows. I had girls who are in the Army tweeting me going Ive got my eyebrows micro-bladed.

Pictured: The actress, 30, has come under fire again and again for her heavily made-up appearance on BBC military drama Our Girl

Glamorous as ever: Michelle, who joined the cast in 2016, plays the fierce leader and leading lady Corporal Georgie Lane in Our Girl

Glamorous Michelle, who joined the cast in 2016, plays the fierce leader and leading lady Corporal Georgie Lane in Our Girl.

The ex soap star proved her dedication to the series when she jetted out to shoot gripping scenes in Nepal, South Africa and Malaysia during her time on the show.

Set in Nigeria, fans of the show will watch emotional Georgie return to the front line after losing her fiance Elvis.

Michelle spent as many as eight months at a time away from the arms of her husband Mark Wright to film with her co-stars.

What a couple: Michelle spent as many as eight months at a time away from the arms of her husband Mark Wright (pictured in London, February 2017) to film with her co-stars

While she has been flying all over the world to film, Mark landed himself the dream gig as a presenter on Extra where he mingles with a galaxy of Hollywood's elite.

Despite previously admitting she finds it hard to be torn away from her love, she confessed she would never consider living with him in Los Angeles full-time.

'I'd love to work in America but I couldn't see myself living out there full time,' she said. 'I'm a home bird.' She clarified. 'It won't be permanent. Definitely not.'It seems the unlikely romance between Sofia Richie, 19, and Scott Disick, 35, is over.

According to an Us Weekly source, the duo split up after an infidelity forced Sofia's famous musician father Lionel to step into the fray as well.

'Sofia and Scott split up,' a source told the publication, adding 'he cheated on her in Miami and she found out and told Lionel.'

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The end: It seems the unlikely romance between Sofia Richie, 19, and Scott Disick, 35, is over; seen in July

The legendary recording artist then reportedly said 'he is going to cut [Sofia] off and write her out of his will if she continues her relationship with Scott as he thinks hes extremely toxic for her.'

Apparently the aspiring model learned about the Miami cheating incident, 'after their trip to St. Barts and it caused huge problems in their relationship' the source explained.

The same source also confirmed 'he went to Wyoming because of it and was photographed with another girl and that was the icing on the cake for her to break up with him.'

Sofia and Scott had been 'trying to work things out,' but the photograph triggered Lionel to forbid them continuing to see each other.

Back to dad! It seems the episode has crystallized the situation for Sofia, who is now 'leaning towards sticking with her family and Lionel because she realizes the severity of it'; seen in September 2017

It seems the episode has crystallized the situation for Sofia, who is now 'leaning towards sticking with her family and Lionel because she realizes the severity of it.'

The news of the breakup is not surprising, given that Sofia looked downcast as she was snapped in Beverly Hills, California on Friday amid news her boyfriend Scott Disick was seen in a passionate embrace with another woman while attending Kanye West's album launch party in Wyoming the previous day.

While Sofia was at the Nobu location in Malibu, California, a favorite haunt for the Kardashian family, the 35-year-old Disick, who has three children with ex Kourtney Kardashian - son Mason, eight, daughter Penelope, five, and son Reign, three - was in the Midwest in the romantic embrace during West's bash on Thursday, overheard saying he was 'single,' according to TMZ.

The unexpected development came less than a week after Scott and Sofia took a romantic trip to the Caribbean paradise of St. Barts to celebrate his recent birthday.

Late night: Meanwhile Sofia's boyfriend Scott Disick was at Kanye West's Wyoming album listening party, where he was seen flirting with an unnamed blonde woman

Kanye's party: Kourtney's sister Kim posed up for a video with Scott at the party

The news comes after People reported that Scott's ex Kourtney now 'trusts' Scott's new beau - who is the daughter of music legend Lionel Richie - with helping to look after her brood.

A source told the magazine: 'It helps that Kourtney now trusts Sofia. The kids are allowed to spend time with her. Sofia likes having them and helps Scott. So far, the kids are giving Kourtney good reports about Sofia.

'Sofia has shown over and over again that she is willing to stay with Scott even when things are not great - but Scott is doing well lately. [He] isn't really partying and spends a lot of time with his kids.'

Sofia and Scott have been together since the summer of 2017, and made their relationship Instagram official last September.Ashley Graham spent Saturday on the beach in Miami.

The 30-year-old model rocked a retro-inspired hot pink bikini as she enjoyed some quality time with her girlfriend Rachel and husband Justin Ervin.

Graham spent most of the afternoon on a speedboat before returning to Faena Hotel where she lounged by the pool.

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Fun in the sun: Ashley Graham rocked a hot pink bikini in Miami on Saturday

Girl time: The 30-year-old model enjoyed some quality time with her girlfriend Rachel

Ashley wore one of the suits from her collection with Swimsuits For Alla body inclusive swimwear line that she began collaborating with back in 2016.

The Nebraska native wore her brown locks in a braided bun and hanging from her lobes were a pair of simple, gold hoop earrings.

Graham later covered up her voluptuous body with a tie-dye dress.

Lazy Saturday: Graham spent most of the afternoon on a speedboat before returning to Faena Hotel where she lounged by the pool

Model off duty: The Nebraska native wore her brown locks in a braided bun and hanging from her lobes were a pair of simple, gold hoop earrings

On Saturday, the Sport Illustrated swimsuit model joined Dave Grutmana Miami business manon the open water.

She got behind the wheel of his speedboat before dining at his six-month-old restaurant Planta.

Ashley, along with her friend Rachel, took several seductive photos as they rode the waves off the coast of South Beach.

Boat life: The Sport Illustrated swimsuit model joined Dave Grutmana Miami business manon the open water

Captain Graham: Ashley got behind the wheel of his speedboat before dining at his six-month-old restaurant Planta

Model behavior: Graham posed in her sexy swimsuit while on the boat

Sweet summertime: Graham and her friend soaked up a few rays while zipping through the Atlantic ocean

Ashley's husband Justin stayed back at the hotel while the girls zipped through the Atlantic.

Upon her return, cameras captured the plus-size model smooching her significant other before heading off to the bar.

Graham and Ervin have been married since 2010.

Loved up: Ashley's husband Justin stayed back at the hotel while the girls zipped through the Atlantic. Upon her return, cameras captured the plus-size model smooching her significant other before heading off to the barShe is an icon of the acting world, known for her quirky and diverse roles in films including Sweeney Todd, A Room With A View and Fight Club.

And Helena Bonham Carter could be set to take on a fiendish new role after it was claimed she is being tipped to play the villain in the new James Bond film, reports The Mirror.

The 52-year-old double Oscar nominee is said to be at the top of the producer's wish list for the 25th untitled Bond movie, which is due out in November 2019.

New venture; Helena Bonham Carter could be set to take on a fiendish new role after it was claimed she is being tipped to play the villain in the new James Bond film, reports The Mirror

Here he is again: The 52-year-old double Oscar nominee is said to be at the top of the producer's wish list for the 25th untitled Bond movie, which is due out in November 2019

A source told the website: 'Everyone thinks Angelina Jolie is going to get the part but bosses want Helena more. At the moment they are just finalising the cast.'

Helena has previously terrified fans with her sadistic turn as evil witch Bellatrix Lestrange in the final four Harry Potter films.

She has also taken on villainous roles in films by her ex Tim Burton including 2010's Alice In Wonderland and 2007's Sweeney Todd.

Supervillain: Helena has previously terrified fans with her sadistic turn as evil witch Bellatrix Lestrange in the final four Harry Potter films

MailOnline has contacted a representative for Helena for comment.

This comes after Daniel Craig confirmed he will step into the famed 007 shoes for a fifth time and will reportedly net an eye-watering pay check for his reprisal.

The 50-year-old actor is said to earn 50million for his role in the next James Bond film, which will be released in October 2019.

Hefty wage: Daniel s set to step into the famed 007 shoes for a fifth time and will reportedly net an eye-watering pay check for his reprisal

A source told The Mirror: 'Daniel is raring to go out with a bang alongside Danny.

'They have been talking already about their visions and the practicalities once the cameras start rolling in December at Pinewood.

'Daniel is worth every penny given that Spectre made over 700million and Skyfall over 900million before they sold DVD, streaming and TV rights.'

Golden boy: The 50-year-old actor is said to earn 50million for his role in the next James Bond film, which will be released in October 2019

MailOnline has contacted Daniel's representatives for comment.

The mammoth salary beats the 37million the Hollywood hunk reportedly made for Spectre.

It comes after Daniel and director Danny Boyle were confirmed for the next James Bond film.

Universal Pictures have won the international distribution rights to the 25th movie about the spy - who will be played by Craig for a fifth time - with Boyle set to direct the hotly-anticipated movie, which will drop in the UK first on October 25, 2019.

The actor's return will undoubtedly stun fans as he stated three years ago that he would 'rather slit his wrists' than take on the role once more.

He's back! Danny Boyle and Daniel Craig have been confirmed for the next James Bond film, which will be released in October 2019

EON Productions' Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli told Deadline: 'We are delighted to announce that the exceptionally talented Danny Boyle will be directing Daniel Craig in his fifth outing as James Bond in the 25th instalment of the franchise.

'We will begin shooting Bond 25 at Pinewood Studios in December with our partners at MGM and thrilled that Universal will be our international distributor.' Production on the movie, which will land in the US on November 8, 2019.

Speaking in 2015, when asked about returning to the role, Craig told the Guardian: 'Now? Id rather  slash my wrists. No, not at the moment. Not at all. Thats fine. Im over it at the moment. Were done. All I want to do is move on.

'I dont know what the next step is. Ive no idea. Not because Im trying to be cagey. Who the f**k knows? At the moment, weve done it. Im not in discussion with anybody about anything. If I did another Bond, it would only be for the money.'

Having a giggle: Universal Pictures have won the international distribution rights to the 25th movie about the suave spy which will drop in the UK first on October 25, 2019

Despite this he is making his comeback in the role, ahead of its return.

Kevin Ulrich, chairman of the board of directors at MGM - who will handle domestic distribution with Annapurna - said: 'Under the leadership of Michael and Barbara, we couldn't be more thrilled than to bring the next 007 adventure to the big screen uniting the incomparable Daniel Craig with the extraordinary vision of Danny Boyle.'

Jon Glickman, group president at MGM, who will also handle the digital and worldwide television distribution rights, added: 'It has been 16 years since 'Die Another Day' was distributed by MGM and it's incredibly gratifying to be releasing this film alongside the powerhouse team at Universal.'

In March, Boyle teased he was working on the Bond 25 script. He said: 'We are working on a script right now. And it all depends on that really.

'I am working on a Richard Curtis script at the moment. We hope to start shooting that in six or seven weeks. Then Bond would be right at the end of the year. But we are working on them both right now.'

Ben Whishaw - who plays Q in the franchise - recently admitted he was delighted to hear Boyle had signed up to helm the next movie.

He's back: Speaking in 2015, when asked about returning to the role, Craig said: 'Now? Id rather  slash my wrists. No, not at the moment. Not at all. Thats fine. Im over it'

Speaking to BANG Showbiz, Ben explained: 'I just think it's really exciting to have Danny Boyle on board for Bond.

'I was thrilled when I read that he was going to be doing it, I can't think of a better or more exciting fit for Daniel [Craig] and the direction he's taken the character of Bond.

'I'm just really excited to work with him, I've been such a big fan. It seems weird to talk about it because I've not had a conversation with him but it's exciting.'

Bond 25 is set to be Craig's final outing as secret agent 007.Television stars often feel the pressure to look ever-youthful and picture perfect.

But Weekend Today hosts Alison Langdon and Jayne Azzopardi claim they're fans of keeping things au naturel.

During a segment on Sunday's edition of the program, talked turned to Botox, before both beauties expressed their dislike of the popular injectable.

'I'm a fan of the natural look!' Weekend Today star Alison Langdon expressed her dislike to the popularity of Botox on Sunday morning's edition of the program

The conversation came about during an interview with leading dermatologist, Dr. Natasha Cook, who gave advice on the best creams to help beat the ageing process.

Jayne then chimed in: 'Lots of people are using the injections these days as well as the creams.'

She asked: 'Is it true that Botox is preventative or are people just trying to spin that line to get you to use it younger and younger and younger?'

Not a fan of Botox! Jayne agreed with Alison, claiming she was also keen to keep things au naturel

Dr. Cook conceded that Botox was the 'single best most effective preventative of some wrinkles, particularly in the frowning area'.

However, she advocated for a 'less is more' approach when considering the injections.

She claimed: 'As a prevention and early intervention, it's great, but if you overdo it people start looking weird and different and not necessarily good versions of themselves'.

'I think there'll be an absolute backlash': Dr. Natasha Cook claimed that people are becoming 'fed up with that mannequin doll look'

Creams that work! Dr. Cook divulged her tips on what ingredients to look out for in anti-ageing lotions and potions

Sounding dejected, Alison winced and turned to co-star Jayne, saying: 'I don't know, I'm a fan of the natural look!'

'Yeah, I'm like that,' Jayne responded.

'Do you think it will come back (into fashion)?' Alison then asked Dr. Cook.

'Yes, I do! I think they'll be an absolute backlash. I think people are fed up with that mannequin doll look... faces not moving, look a little bit strange and weird'.Following his erratic behaviour during a 2005 appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Tom Cruise earned a reputation for being somewhat unpredictable during interviews.

But comedian Andy Lee says the Hollywood actor is his favourite celebrity interviewee of all-time.

Speaking with news.com.au on Sunday, the 37-year-old funnyman said he found the Mission: Impossible star extremely friendly, courteous and down-to-earth.

Risky business! Tom Cruise has been revealed as comedian Andy Lee's all-time favourite celebrity to interview

The pair met for the first time back in 2008, when Tom was promoting his World War II drama, Valkyrie.

Andy told news.com.au that he was nervous prior to meeting the Hollywood heavyweight, with a publicist issuing strict orders not to bring up then-wife Katie Holmes, daughter Suri or the controversial religion Scientology.

But all tensions drifted away as soon as charismatic Tom walked into the room.

Reminiscing: Andy was blown away by Tom's friendly, courteous and down-to-earth nature

Andy recalled: 'Door swings open, Tom walks in, he has introduced himself to the sound guy, the producer  and I said 'I heard there's a few rules' and he says 'Oh, we'll be fine and, anyway, when are you going to marry Megan (Gale)?'

At the time, Andy was dating supermodel Megan, with Tom clearly having done his research before meeting face-to-face.

Two years later, in 2010, Tom phoned the funnyman for an interview on his Hit 105 radio program.

'When are you going to marry Megan?' Tom had done his research on Andy's personal life (pictured in 2009 with then-girlfriend Megan Gale)

According to Andy, Tom dialed straight through, with the down-to-earth star not bothering to go through his publicity team.

'I was like 'Tom, is that you?' and he goes 'Andy, is that you? What are you doing taking your own calls?'. And I was like 'what are you doing making your own calls?' the comedian fondly reminisced.

The Australian host was also left suitably impressed that Tom remembered the name of his friend who had accompanied him to the Valkyrie interview two years earlier.

'That was pretty good,' Andy gushed.

The pair have since met up again for another interview in 2017.They are the regular Weekend Today guests who often find themselves at odds with each other on-air.

And Prue MacSween and Peter FitzSimons did not pull any punches when the red bandanna-clad author mocked Prue for what he implied were discriminatory comments.

The pair were discussing Pepsi's decision to allow Australian workers to swap Australian public holidays for more 'culturally relevant' observances on Saturday when the drama began.

Stouch: ''These people?' We all know what you mean by 'these people!'' Prue MacSween and Peter FitzSimons clash over public holiday swap debate... as she blasts him as a 'pig'

While Prue said she believed in the idea in principle, despite saying Pepsi were 'jumping on the PC bandwagon,' she added that she didn't want to see a drop in productivity.

'I haven't got a problem with that, proving these people that want to observe these holidays take it in their holiday leave package. but if it means that the're going to be working on the days when we're all having holidays, are they productive?

Prue continued: In the end it's the company's interest which becomes the employees interest. if the company is just babysitting people who don;t want to take the day off because it's an Anglo cultural initiative, obviously we don;t want malingerers, we want productivity.'

Debate; The the pair were discussing Pepsi's decision to allow Australian workers to swap Australian public holidays for more 'culturally relevant' observances.

Argument: 'I haven't got a problem with that, proving these people that want to observe these holidays take it in their holiday leave package. but if it means that the're going to be working on the days when we're all having holidays, are they productive?' Prue argued

Mocking: 'I like that,' he said leaning in to Prue. 'These people...these people. We all know what Prue means by these people.'

Peter then took umbrage with Prue's use of the term 'these people' and affected a mocking tone in his rebuttal.

'I like that,' he said leaning in to Prue. 'These people...these people. We all know what Prue means by these people.'

Continuing his spray Peter said: 'You know the ones I mean they don;t look like us...these people.'

Peter then jokingly said that he agreed with Prue's comments before issuing another not-so-subtle dig.

'No look, I'm with Prue. This policy sounds dangerously like post-1952 and, as you know Prue and I, if it's a policy that doesn't belong in 1952, we're not happy.

Clearly unimpressed, Prue shot back with: 'You are an imbecile. Don;t be with me, I never want you to agree with me.'

The spat continued when the panel went on to chat about men stepping up their domestic duties.

Peter argued that mess was a matter of perspective, saying: If my mussus was here she would see a messy desk and it would bother her. She would start re-arranging things. I would say: 'It's just a desk, calm down.'

'You are a pig! No, you are,' Prue retorted.He's the Channel 9 celebrity psychic that's rumoured to star on the upcoming sixth season of Married At First Sight.

But insiders allege to Daily Mail Australia that Harry T may only be using the series to further his growing media career.

One source close to the series told Daily Mail Australia that the famed psychic, who has appeared on multiple reality shows in the past, is more interested in fame than love.

'I think he's just in it for fame and to further his media career!' Insiders have claimed that rumoured new Married At First Sight groom Harry T is going on the show for fame

'I think he's just in it for fame and to further his media career,' said the source, who added: 'He's been telling people that he's already got the gig.'

The source also claimed that Married At First Sight is now turning to celebrity casting in a bid to top last season's explosive drama.

'They know they can't outdo season five, so they're trying to get celebrities on board to spice up the new season and get people talking,' they said.

Best friends! The 29-year-old celebrity psychic is best friends with former Married At First Sight star Sarah Roza

The Bachelorette's Michael Turnbull revealed in April that he had been approached by a MAFS casting agent to appear on the series, but he respectfully declined.

The source added that former MAFS star Sarah Roza, who is best friends with Harry and featured him in her wedding to Telv Williams, is 'desperate to be back on TV.'

Daily Mail Australia was previously told that the openly gay Harry will add some diversity to the show's sixth season with a same-sex wedding, and that fan favourite Sarah will return to the series as his maid of honour.

'She's desperate to be back on TV!' Daily Mail Australia was previously told that fan favourite Sarah will return to the series as Harry's maid of honour

There he is! Harry made a memorable appearance on season five of Married At First Sight at Sarah's wedding

Another insider, who is a former reality star and regular on the social scene, told Daily Mail Australia that Harry loves the limelight.

'Harry's at every event trying to get photos with celebrities,' said the socialite.

'He came up to me at a party and wanted us to pose for a photo, then I saw the pictures in the media the next day,' they added.

'They're trying to get celebrities on board to spice up the new season and get people talking!' Michael Turnbull was approached by casting to appear on the series, but declined the offer

'Harry's at every event trying to get photos with celebrities': Another insider, who is a former reality star and regular on the social scene, told Daily Mail that Harry loves the limelight

In a statement to Daily Mail Australia, Harry denied the allegations that he's seeking fame by joining the show.

'I know more celebrities than any other former MAFS contestant so I certainly would not be joining the show for fame,' he said.

'I understand that a lot of people go onto those reality shows to create a name, however I already have a name with many notable figures endorsing my brand,' he continued.

'I know more celebrities than any other former MAFS contestant so I certainly would not be joining the show for fame!' Harry has DENIED accusations that he's using the show for fame

'I just so happen to be single for a long time and I am ready for love. Show or no show I really want a relationship.'

When contacted for comment last week, Sarah Roza also denied the whispers that Harry would appear on the show.

'After what I went through behind the scenes (in the last season) Harry said he would not do it ever!' she said.

Not his first time on reality TV! Harry previously appeared on Channel 7's First Dates in 2016

Spotlight: Harry was also a contestant on the reality TV cooking show Come Dine With Me

Over the weekend, Harry confirmed that he's now secured a weekly gig doing psychic readings on Channel 9's Today Extra.

He previously starred on Channel 7's reality TV dating show First Dates and Foxtel's cooking competition Come Dine With Me, and also appeared briefly on MAFS alongside Sarah earlier this year.

Applications for Married At First Sight's sixth season were scheduled to close on June 1st, but have since been extended several weeks to June 23rd to give producers more time to find potential talent.Tracey Jewel, 35, has confirmed she is back together with her ex-boyfriend Patrick Kedemos, 45, just three weeks after brutally dumping Sean Thomsen.

The Married At First Sight star gushed over her reconciled romance in a heartfelt post shared to Instagram on Sunday.

She poured her heart out to her 140,000 followers and said their reunion was 'meant to be,' but strangely also pleaded for privacy.

'If two people are meant to be together they will always find a way!' MAFS' Tracey Jewel CONFIRMS she is back together with Patrick Kedemos just three weeks after brutally dumping Sean Thomsen

Bizarre: She poured her heart out to her 140,000 followers and said their reunion was 'meant to be' but strangely also pleaded for privacy

'I recently reunited with my ex-partner Patrick Kedemos in Cairns at the Tony Robbins 'Date With Destiny' seminar it could not have been better named,' she wrote.

'After everything I've been through with MAFS, it seems true love always finds its way back into our lives I've had a few detours but I now know where my heart always belonged.

She added: 'If two people are meant to be together then they will always find a way! We wish our relationship to be as private as possible; Patrick and I are just delighted to be together again  we feel blessed to have each other. Thank you for your love and support.'

The ex files: Tracey dumped Sean Thomsen at the airport last month after five months of dating

She added the hashtags: 'x #trueloveneverdies #togetheragain #happyending #foreverafter #datewithdestiny #gratitude @patrick_kedemos.'

Last week, an insider told Woman's Day that Tracey and Patrick are considering moving back in together.

'There's already talk of them moving back in together,' a source said.

Dropping hints: Prior to confirming their reconciliation, the former lovers sparked speculation after both attending Tony Robbins' Date With Destiny seminar at Cairns Convention Centre and sharing various photos on Instagram . Pictured in Perth on November 4th 2016

It comes after the single mother enjoyed a relaxing getaway in Queensland,with the Perth businessman last month.

Prior to confirming their reconciliation, the former lovers sparked speculation after both attending Tony Robbins' Date With Destiny seminar at Cairns Convention Centre and sharing various photos on Instagram.

One photo showed a beaming Tracey posing outdoors and it was accompanied by a sentimental quote about love.

Same place? Tracey shared this photo to Instagram last month, which appeared to show her in the same location as her ex Patrick, who posted a similar snap on the same day

Looks familiar! Perth businessman Patrick shared a similar picturesque snap from Cairns, which included the same palm trees and grey sky visible in Tracey's photo

Accomplished: Patrick is a successful businessman and a former diplomat

'I've learnt not to be afraid to keep opening my heart and putting myself out there even though it hurts like f*#* sometimes... life is love!' she wrote in the caption.

She added the hashtags: 'Life is love', 'Gratitude', 'Cairns', 'Date with destiny,' and 'Tony Robbins'.

Perth businessman Patrick shared a similar picturesque snap, which included the same palm trees and grey sky visible in Tracey's photo.

Did they attend together? Tracey (left) and Patrick both shared photos from Tony Robbins' Date With Destiny seminar at Cairns Convention Centre on Wednesday

The exes began dating in 2016 but reportedly split in late June 2017, before Tracey's appearance on Married At First Sight.

Patrick, a former honorary consul for France in WA, previously told News Corp that he met with Tracey on several occasions after their split.

He claimed they saw each other between October and December 2017, while she was filming Married At First Sight with her TV 'husband' Dean Wells, 40.

The self-proclaimed 'relationship expert' has previously denied Patrick's claims.

She told PerthNow in March that her split with Patrick took an emotional toll.

'Breakups never end well, and in breakups you've always got my version of a breakup, their version of a breakup and the truth is somewhere in the middle,' she said.

'I have had some public relationships that haven't gone to plan and the reasons why those breakups have happened, I've chosen not to print those stories or comment on that, because that's private.'

She added: 'I'd hoped that they'd have the same respect for me.'

Awkward! Following their split, leaked text messages revealed Tracey had begged to get back together with Dean Wells (right) while she was still with Sean

Cringe! Dean let the single mother down gently, telling her 'that boat has sailed, babe'

'Yep I'm drunk': Tracey admitted she was under the influence when she sent the texts

Showing Dean what he's missing! Tracey sent this lingerie-clad selfie to Dean after they split on Married At First Sight

It comes a week after Tracey announced her split from FIFO (fly-in-fly-out) miner Sean, after just five months of dating.

She told New Idea that Sean's work schedule meant she had 'no stability', adding that she was relieved they never went ahead with their plans to move in together.

Following their split, leaked text messages revealed that Tracey had begged to get back together with Dean while she was still dating Sean.

Love triangle! Tracey is believed to have pursued Dean after dumping Sean, and has publicly admitted she 'can't stop thinking about him'

A screenshot of the conversation shows her telling Dean: 'Can I text you something you promise never to show anyone cause I'm drunk... You've really got under my skin the past few days.'

Brushing off Tracey's confession, Dean responds: 'Awww oh well. Too bad you broke up with me at the final vows.'

Tracey then writes back: 'Is it too late? I'm only going to ask once.'

But Tracey's plea for a second chance is shut down by Dean, who replies: '(You) know that boat has sailed babe. I wanna be friends and I care about you a lot but that boat has sailed babe'.

'Yep I'm drunk,' Tracey responds. 'Please keep this between us, promise?'

Tracey is currently on a book tour across Australia and New Zealand to celebrate the launch of her third book, This Goddess Means Business.Sunrise co-host Samantha Armytage has shared her thoughts on the media constantly mocking US President Donald Trump.

Writing in her column for Stellar, she said the incessant ridicule of America's Commander-In-Chief is becoming 'boring.'

The 41-year-old was discussing her love of political history and the three films - LBJ, The Post and Darkest Hour that she watched on a recent long haul flight to London when her attention turned to Trump.

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Weighing in: 'It's actually getting a bit boring;' Sunrise's Samantha Armytage weighs in on the media mocking US President Donald Trump... after she clashed with Kathy Griffin over THAT photo

'It got me thinking about our present world leaders. Sure they are still all seriously flawed and ego-driven and waging wars...But where's the brilliance?,' Samantha wrote.

She then claimed it was no surprise that a country that elevates the Kardashians to such heights would elect a 'reality TV star' as President.

'It's actually getting boring to bag the man these days (and you know I loathe a pile on,' she wrote.

Yawn: 'It's actually getting boring to bag the man these days (and you know i loathe a pile on,' she wrote

She went on to argue that the world would be better off if citizens took a more proactive approach to criticising their leaders.

'Can we have less of the 'little rocket man' jibes  and more of the 'you cannot reason with a tiger when your head is in its mouth'? ' she asked 'Let's tone down the 'Mediscare' mocking  and ramp up a bit of the 'Ask not what your country can do for you... .'

Samantha clashed with embattled US comedian Kathy Griffin on Sunrise last year over the notorious photo that showed Kathy holding up a severed head covered in blood supposed to be Donald Trump.

'Even Democrats said it was out of line, I get that comedy is about pushing the boundaries but do you not agree that that picture holding up a severed head - I know it's a mask covered in tomato sauce - but do you not accept that was a little bit over the line?' Sam asked.

Proactive: 'Can we have less of the 'little rocket man' jibes  and more of the 'you cannot reason with a tiger when your head is in its mouth'? ' she asked 'Let's tone down the 'Mediscare' mocking  and ramp up a bit of the 'Ask not what your country can do for you...'

Kathy's reply was feisty and direct telling Sam that she was 'full of crap.'

'Stop acting like my little picture is more important than talking about the actual atrocities that the President of the United States is committing,' Kathy shot back.

The exchange continued with Kathy telling Sam: 'I'm in trouble, according to you Sam, way to take my back girl.'

Stouch: Samantha clashed with embattled US comedian Kathy Griffin on Sunrise last year over the notorious photo that showed Kathy holding up a severed head covered in blood supposed to be President Trump

Strong words: After Sam criticised the photo, Kathy responded swiftly telling Sam she was 'full of crap'

'I'm a journalist Kathy I'm here to ask you questions,' Sam said, while also explaining she was 'playing the devil's advocate'.

'I know your type, I've got your number Sam,' Griffin replied.

Sam later revealed that she thought Kathy was 'unwell' during an interview on mark Latham's Outsiders.

impartial: 'I'm a journalist Kathy I'm here to ask you questions,' Sam said, while also explaining she was 'playing the devil's advocate'

'I wasn't applying politics that day I just thought she was a little bit unwell - kooky is one word for it,' she said.

Kathy kept the stouch going in an appearance on the Kyle And Jackie O Show in October last year where she challenged Samantha to a cage match over the incident.

'I'm happy to challenge her to a cage match - two dogs enter, one dog leaves.'There has been a storm of rumors she is dating Nick Jonas.

But Priyanka Chopra went stag to the Chanel Dinner Celebrating Our Majestic Oceans Benefit For NRDC in Los Angeles on Saturday.

Priyanka, 35, modeled a white, purple and yellow Chanel jumpsuit for the event, held at the home of NBCUniversal Vice Chairman Ron Meyer and his wife Kelly.

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Radiant: Priyanka Chopra went stag to the Chanel Dinner Celebrating Our Majestic Oceans Benefit For NRDC in Los Angeles on Saturday

The Bollywood superstar had her hair swept back into a bun by celebrity coiffeuse Laura Polko, whose clientele has included Kim Kardashian and Chrissy Teigen.

Her ensemble was put together by stylist-to-the-stars Mimi Cuttrell, who has in the past assembled outfits for Hadid sisters Gigi and Bella.

She accentuated her features with makeup by Sarah Tanno, who per Vogue Paris puts on Lady Gaga's face for all her magazine shoots, concerts and red carpets.

Priyanka, born in a part of Bihar that is now Jharkhand, added a splash of glitz with an elaborate necklace and a pair of glinting earrings.

Pedigree: Priyanka, 35, modeled a white, purple and yellow Chanel jumpsuit for the event, held at the home of NBCUniversal Vice Chairman Ron Meyer and his wife Kelly

After reportedly meeting him twice over Memorial Day weekend, Priyanka is said to have had dinner with Nick, who is a decade her junior, in West Hollywood Thursday.

A source who claims to have seen them at Toca Madera gossiped to People: 'They were very affectionate with each other and seemed to not care who saw.'

The alleged eyewitness gabbed on: 'Priyanka ran her hands through his hair at one point and they were laughing and even dancing to the music.'

Supposedly, the 'very cute' duo - who posed at the 2017 Met Gala together as guests of Ralph Lauren - 'seemed really into each other' this Thursday night.

Only the best: The Bollywood superstar had her hair swept back into a bun by celebrity coiffeuse Laura Polko, whose clientele has included Kim Kardashian and Chrissy Teigen

Gorgeous: Priyanka, born in a part of Bihar that is now Jharkhand, added a splash of glitz with an elaborate necklace and a pair of glinting earrings

Their Memorial Day weekend reportedly included a stop at Beauty And The Beast In Concert at the Hollywood Bowl on Saturday, plus a Dodgers game on Sunday.

The weekend prior, she pulled on a tight-fitted Vivienne Westwood skirt-suit to her old friend Meghan Markle's wedding to Prince Harry.

Shortly before the nuptials at Windsor Castle, Andy Cohen asked her on Watch What Happens Live who her date would be, and she said with a giggle: 'There's a decision pending on that.' She wound up going solo.

Though she has been famously tight-lipped about her relationships, Priyanka has previously been linked to such names as her fellow Bollywood bombshell Shahid Kapoor, with whom she co-starred in three movies.

Her ABC drama Quantico was recently guillotined after three seasons. Nick Jonas released his latest album, Last Year Was Complicated, two years ago.She reportedly ended her year-long relationship with Scott Disick.

But Sofia Richie was intent on keeping up to her busy schedule as she tended to business meetings around town in Los Angeles on Saturday.

The 19-year-old model hopped in and out of appointments wearing blue jeans and a white T-shirt just hours after US Weekly reported her unlikely romance with the 35-year-old reality star had run its course.

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Staying strong: Sofia Richie was intent on keeping up to her busy schedule as she tended to business meetings around town in Los Angeles on Saturday

Sofia rocked her usual laid-back look complete with over-sized denim pants and a large white T-shirt.

She added a bit of fashionable flair to the ensemble with black leather boots and wore a shiny silver backpack over one shoulder.

Her chocolate brown tresses were styled back into a low ponytail, with dark frames covering her eyes.

Busy: The 19-year-old model hopped in and out of appointments wearing blue jeans and a white T-shirt just hours after US Weekly reported her unlikely romance with the 35-year-old reality star had run its course

Casual: Sofia rocked her usual laid-back look complete with over-sized denim pants and a large white T-shirt

Walk it out: She added a bit of fashionable flair to the ensemble with black leather boots and wore a shiny silver backpack over one shoulder

It seems the unlikely romance between Sofia Richie, 19, and Scott Disick, 35, is over.

According to an Us Weekly source, the duo split up after an infidelity forced Sofia's famous musician father Lionel to step into the fray as well.

'Sofia and Scott split up,' a source told the publication, adding 'he cheated on her in Miami and she found out and told Lionel.'

The legendary recording artist then reportedly said 'he is going to cut [Sofia] off and write her out of his will if she continues her relationship with Scott as he thinks hes extremely toxic for her.'

The end: It seems the unlikely romance between Sofia Richie, 19, and Scott Disick, 35, is over; seen in July

Back to dad! It seems the episode has crystallized the situation for Sofia, who is now 'leaning towards sticking with her family and Lionel because she realizes the severity of it'; seen in September 2017

Apparently the aspiring model learned about the Miami cheating incident, 'after their trip to St. Barts and it caused huge problems in their relationship' the source explained.

The same source also confirmed 'he went to Wyoming because of it and was photographed with another girl and that was the icing on the cake for her to break up with him.'

Sofia and Scott had been 'trying to work things out,' but the photograph triggered Lionel to forbid them continuing to see each other.

Late night: Meanwhile Sofia's boyfriend Scott Disick was at Kanye West's Wyoming album listening party, where he was seen flirting with an unnamed blonde woman

It seems the episode has crystallized the situation for Sofia, who is now 'leaning towards sticking with her family and Lionel because she realizes the severity of it.'

The news of the breakup is not surprising, given that Sofia looked downcast as she was snapped in Beverly Hills, California on Friday amid news her boyfriend Scott Disick was seen in a passionate embrace with another woman while attending Kanye West's album launch party in Wyoming the previous day.

While Sofia was at the Nobu location in Malibu, California, a favorite haunt for the Kardashian family, the 35-year-old Disick, who has three children with ex Kourtney Kardashian - son Mason, eight, daughter Penelope, five, and son Reign, three - was in the Midwest in the romantic embrace during West's bash on Thursday, overheard saying he was 'single,' according to TMZ.

The unexpected development came less than a week after Scott and Sofia took a romantic trip to the Caribbean paradise of St. Barts to celebrate his recent birthday.

Kanye's party: Kourtney's sister Kim posed up for a video with Scott at the party

The news comes after People reported that Scott's ex Kourtney now 'trusts' Scott's new beau - who is the daughter of music legend Lionel Richie - with helping to look after her brood.

A source told the magazine: 'It helps that Kourtney now trusts Sofia. The kids are allowed to spend time with her. Sofia likes having them and helps Scott. So far, the kids are giving Kourtney good reports about Sofia.

'Sofia has shown over and over again that she is willing to stay with Scott even when things are not great - but Scott is doing well lately. [He] isn't really partying and spends a lot of time with his kids.'

Sofia and Scott have been together since the summer of 2017, and made their relationship Instagram official last September.Bert and Patti Newton have each battled their own health problems over the past year.

And now the showbiz super couple are dealing with another medical emergency in their family.

On Saturday, the pair's granddaughter Lola was rushed to The Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne where she was promptly diagnosed with pneumonia.

'Nothing hurts more': Showbiz power couple Bert and Patti Newton have faced another health crisis, with their six-year-old granddaughter Lola rushed to hospital with pneumonia on Saturday

The six-year-old is required to stay in hospital for several days, with devoted Bert and Patti at her bedside.

Patti shared the shock news of Lola's health woes late Saturday night with a post on Instagram.

'After a lovey lunch, we ended up at the Children's Hospital with Lola with pneumonia and breathing problems. Very scary, in for a couple of days. Fantastic care and wonderful hospital, so lucky,' she wrote.

Battling pneumonia: Patti shared a photo of granddaughter Lola laid up in a hospital bed appearing somewhat sickly

The 73-year-old added a photo of her granddaughter laid up in a hospital bed appearing somewhat sickly.

Fans were quick to offer their best wishes, with one writing: 'So sorry to hear this, but I'm sure Lola is receiving the very best of care. Nothing hurts more than to see our babies unwell.'

Thankfully, Lola appeared in better health and higher spirits on Sunday, with another visit from her very famous granddad.

Close-knit clan: Patti and Bert are very close with their grandchildren, including Lola (centre front)

Social media savvy Patti shared a nap which showed TV icon Bert posing for a picture with his granddaughter.

'Looking better today after a visit from Poppy,' she captioned.

Bert knows all too well about the dangers of pneumonia, after his own battle against the infection left him hospitalised last year.

His five-day stay in the medical facility sparked rumours he was on his deathbed.

Meanwhile, Patti also spent time in hospital in 2017, hitting her head after suffering nasty fall.

Health woes: Patti also spent time in hospital in 2017, hitting her head after suffering nasty fall (pictured)Alessandra Ambrosio dazzled on Saturday as she attended iHeartRadio's Wango Tango, the inaugural concert at the Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles.

The Brazilian stunner, 37, wore a sequined long-sleeved skirt with blue, red and gold highlights and complementing shapes and patterns. The skirt had a v-neck with a sheer panel.

The 5ft9 model rounded out her sleek ensemble with silver heels and diamond earrings, with her brown locks slicked back, showcasing her flawless facial features.

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Kickin' it: Alessandra Ambrosio, 37, dazzled on Saturday as she attended iHeartRadio's Wango Tango, the inaugural concert at the Banc of California Stadium in LA

Ambrosio, who has two children with ex Jamie Mazur - daughter Anja, nine and son Noah, six - cut a number of sexy poses as she made her entrance.

She is about three months removed from her reported breakup with Mazur after a decade-long engagement.

Neither have confirmed or denied it, unlike five years ago, when the model told E! things were going fine amid similar reports of a split.

Ambrosio was snapped meeting with Mazur earlier this week for a group dinner at Nobu Malibu. Brazilian movie producer Raul Guterres, who she's been on some outings with in the wake of the reported breakup, was also spotted at the gathering.

Exquisite: The Brazilian model's sharp features were complemented by light makeup

Fashionista: The Victoria's Secret stunner showed off her toned gams in a sequined skirt

Swagger: Alessandra radiated confidence as she posed for photographers

Involved: The model appeared onstage with Westworld actor James Marsden at the show

The Victoria's Secret supermodel was one of many famous faces seen at the concert at the new venue, as other celebs on hand included Westworld star James Marsden, Ruby Rose, Evan Ross and Ashlee Simpson.

A number of reality stars under The Bachelor umbrella were also present, including Jordan Rodgers and JoJo Fletcher, Becca Tilley and Ashley Iaconetti.

The show had a star-heavy lineup set to perform, including Ariana Grande, Shawn Mendes, Janelle Monae, Marshmello, Miguel, Meghan Trainor and the Backstreet Boys.

Headed for fun: The model shared a lighthearted clip on social media as she made her way to the venueMarried At First Sight was infamous for partner swapping and Nasser Sultan, 51, and Alycia Galbraith, 28, are the most recent duo to emerge as a 'couple'.

And proving things are heating up quickly, Nasser revealed he is gearing up to meet her mother, imminently.

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia exclusively on Sunday, Nasser said: 'I'm meeting Alycia's mum next week!'

Meet the parents! Nasser Sultan, 51, reveals he and Alycia Galbraith, 28, would 'make a very good couple' as he gears up to 'meet her mum next week'

Although he confirmed the two are not a 'couple' just yet, Nasser reaffirmed his feelings for the blonde beauty.

'We're very good friends right now and would make a very good couple,' he shared.

On Friday, the former co-stars put on an intimate display for dinner at Italian restaurant Big Mama's, with Nasser holding Alycia's hand tightly and kissing her cheek as she smiled.

Meet the parents! Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, Nasser said: 'I'm meeting Alycia's mum next week!'

Sharing a snap of the sweet moment to Instagram, Nasser wrote: 'Friday night couldn't get better than this! With my gorgeous @alyciafelicity #wineanddine.'

MAFS fans were quick to comment, with many asking if the two are now officially dating.

'Omg omg!! Wait what? Are you dating?!' exclaimed one fan.

Soon? 'We're very good friends right now and would make a very good couple,' he shared

Instead of answering the question directly, Nasser cryptically replied 'mmmm' followed by a 'shh' emoji.

Alycia's on-screen ex-'husband' Mat Lockett also left a comment on the post, writing: 'Get ya hands off my ex-wife Nasser!'

Mat then admitted that he'd missed his chance with Alycia, writing: 'I picked up my bags and ran from the best thing that's ever happened to me.'

Disaster: Alycia was paired with plumber Mat 'Matty' Lockett, but their union ended in tears

'I picked up my bags and ran from the best thing that's ever happened to me': Matty commented on Nasser's post, admitting that he'd made a mistake leaving Alycia

Alycia and Mat were the first couple to call it quits on Married At First Sight's fifth season, with Mat citing undisclosed 'issues' behind his decision to leave the blonde beauty.

Nasser was paired with Gabrielle Bartlett on the series, but the couple had a tumultuous relationship and broke up before the final vows.She's the Spanish-born model and wife of Chris Hemsworth known for documenting her idyllic life on social media.

And Elsa Pataky did not disappoint on Sunday when she shared a sweet selfie with her and her hunky husband during a weekend away, having just returned from a family vacation to Stradbroke Island.

The 41-year-old stunner was all smiles as she huddled close to Chris, 34, on a balcony.

Smitten:The 41-year-old stunner was all smiles as she huddled close to Chris, 34, on a balcony

Wearing a pair of mirrored Aviator-style sunglasses, Elsa casually leaned against the balcony's railing.

Chris, meanwhile, sported a rather relaxed expression and playfully flashed a cheeky peace sign.

In captioning the image, Elsa was full of gushing sentiment for the Thor star.

'Weekend get away with this handsome man!' Elsa wrote, reiterating the sentiment in her native Spanish.

Loved-up: 'Weekend get away with this handsome man!' Elsa captioned the image

Her fans too were full of gushing praise for the genetically blessed couple, writing comment underneath the image such as; 'you guys are so lucky to have each other,' and: 'you two are so cute.'

One fan however offered some low-key jealously in response with: 'How are you just naturally both this good looking? Get a life.'

Babes! One fan however offered some low-key jealously in response with: 'How are you just naturally both this good looking? Get a life'

Elsa and her brood had just gotten back from a trip to Stradbroke Island before mum and dad went off for their own weekend away.

The mum-of-three also took to Instagram on Saturday to share an image of her twins, Tristan and Sasha, both 4, staring out at the ocean at Stradbroke Island, Queensland.

The actress captioned the image: Two old souls Checking the surf and pondering life's great questions. #brothers'.

Twins: Elsa and her brood had just gotten back from a trip to Stradbroke Island before mum and dad went off for their own weekend away

Been away: Elsa and her twins, along with daughter India Rose, six, and husband Chris, had all gone along for that island trip

Elsa and her twins, along with daughter India Rose, six, and husband Chris Hemsworth, 34, returned from their getaway on Saturday.

They had enjoyed the island beaches along with Matt Damon, his wife Luciana Barroso and their children.

Always down-to-earth, the family took the humble North Stradebroke Island ferry home at sunset.EastEnders star Jake Wood made sure to send his love to soap stalwart Dame Barbara Windsor in his acceptance speech at the British Soap Awards on Saturday night.

As he picked up the Scene Of The Year, the actor, 45 - who plays Max Branning in the BBC soap - sent out a sweet message to the 80-year-old, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

While on stage next to onscreen daughter Jacqueline Jossa, Max lovingly spoke about the veteran actress, and said he wanted to 'hug' both her and husband Scott Mitchell.

British Soap Awards 2018: EastEnders star Jake Wood, 45, dedicated his Best Scene gong to Dame Barbara Windsor following her Alzheimer's diagnosis

The soaps win came as part of the awards first ever tie, as whilst EastEnders bagged the gong for tragic roof plunge over Christmas in which Lauren and her sister Abby fell from the top of the Queen Vic, fellow BBC show Doctors also picked up the same award.

Collecting the gong, Jake told the star-studded audience: 'I want to send a big EastEnders hug to Barbara Windsor and her husband Scott.

'We love you very much, thank you very much.'

Beloved: Collecting the gong, Jake told the star-studded audience: I want to send a big EastEnders 'hug' to Barbara Windsor (pictured)

Intense: The soaps win came as part of the awards first ever tie, as whilst EastEnders bagged the gong for tragic roof plunge over Christmas

The beloved Carry On actress was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2014, with her husband Scott revealing the tragic news publicly in May.

Barbara and Scott decided to keep the diagnosis out of the public eye, but her symptoms were said to have grown worse, prompting the couple to announce her condition.

The stage icon had hinted of her condition before, and said in December 2017 that she did not like to perform anymore, saying how she wanted audiences to remember her for her roles in the Carry On films.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror at the time, she revealed that she had given up her tradition of performing in pantomime, saying: 'My life is different now.

Star turn: While on stage next to onscreen daughter Jacqueline Jossa (pictured), Max lovingly spoke about the veteran actress, and said he wanted to 'hug' both her and husband Scott

'It took me a long time to get used to it because all of a sudden you look at your age and go 'Oh Christ, I'm getting older.' I do like to perform.

'But I don't do it so much now. I suddenly thought 'No, I won't do it now. Let them see me in Carry On films and they'll still think I'm like that.'

Her husband said he first noticed symptoms in 2009, just before his wife left EastEnders for the first time, when she began finding it difficult to learn her lines.

Stalwart: Barbara's husband said he first noticed symptoms in 2009, just before his wife left EastEnders for the first time, when she began finding it difficult to learn her lines

Dame Barbara joined the cast of EastEnders in 1994 to play Peggy Mitchell. She left for two years between 2003 and 2005, announced she would quit in 2009, but then returned for one of episodes in 2013, 2014 and 2015.

Her last appearance aired on May 17 2016 when Peggy took her own life after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Meanwhile, soap stars descended on London's Hackney Empire for the anticipated award show, where Coronation Street picked up the most accolades, walking away with five awards, including Best British Soap.She's one of the most famous faces in British pop music.

And Jesy Nelson, 26, made doubly sure she stood out from the crowd in a striking outfit on Saturday night, as she left Cantina Laredo in London with a female friend.

The Little Mix star has just got home from a trip to the Maldives, and showed off her golden skin in a tiny off the shoulder khaki crop top, revealing her impressive abs.

Statement: Jesy Nelson, 26, made doubly sure she stood out from the crowd in a striking outfit on Saturday night, as she left Cantina Laredo in London with a female friend

Jesy also added a pair of knee length camo shorts, but didn't come close to blending in in the striking ensemble.

Topping off the look was a pair of strappy olive stilettos, boosting her petite 5 ft 2 frame as she strolled hand in hand with a pal.

The Black Magic hitmaker wore her auburn tresses loose, falling sleekly to her waist, and opted for a glittering eyeshadow and lashings of eyeliner to add a touch of glamour to her look.

Sun drenched: The Little Mix star has just got home from a trip to the Maldives, and showed off her golden skin in a tiny off the shoulder khaki crop top, revealing her impressive abs

Army style: Jesy also added a pair of knee length camo shorts, but didn't come close to blending in in the striking ensemble

She accessorised with a simple gold necklace and green and red Gucci bag with gold detailing.

Just prior to jetting home from her sunny trip abroad, Jesy had likened herself to the Harry Potter character Hagrid in a hilarious Instagram story.

Likening herself to Robbie Coltrane's cinematic role, Jesy shared the rib-tickling video with her 3.8million followers which included the caption: 'When you wake up like haggred' (sic) alongside a blank faced emoji.

Beauty: The Black Magic hitmaker wore her auburn tresses loose, falling sleekly to her waist, and opted for a glittering eyeshadow and lashings of eyeliner to add a touch of glamour to her look

Aside from Jesy insisting she was suffering from a bad hair day, the Essex beauty couldn't deter attention away from her incredible figure.

The former X Factor star posed up a storm in her plunging white swimwear which accentuated her ample cleavage and narrow waist.

Showcasing her intricate tattoos, she highlighted her flawless features with a dusting of bronzer and a nude lip.He's the star of the popular AMC zombie series Walking Dead and its spin-off Fear The Walking Dead.

And British actor Lennie James has revealed he took inspiration from the disappearance of UK toddler Madeleine McCann for his latest series, Save Me.

Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph, the 52-year old revealed that while the six-part BBC First drama he scripted had little to do with the high profile case, he added that it helped him understand how police approach such situations.

High profile: British actor Lennie James has revealed he took inspiration from the disappearance of UK toddler Madeleine McCann when writing the script for his latest series

'I read the McCann story along with other stories at different stages to familarise myself with some of the things said,' Lennie revealed.

He added: ' Sometimes it was for investigations into how the police operate.'

Lennie said he was surprised by how quickly cases such as Madeline's can go 'cold' leaving friends and family to continue their search for answers.

'Once she isn't immediately found, once there isn't that expected and dreamed of and wanted happy ending, it is literally only the people who wake up and notice,' he said.

Inner workings: 'I read the McCann story along with other stories at different stages to familarise myself with some of the things said,' Lennie revealed to the Sunday telegraph

The actor added, 'Because they can't help but notice the absence of that child, (those) who continue to search for her,' Lennie said.

Three-year-old Madeleine McCann vanished during a family holiday in Praia da Luz, Portugal, in May 2007.

She was snatched from a bedroom at a complex apartment after being left sleeping alone with her younger twin siblings while her parents were dining in a nearby tapas restaurant with friends.

Mystery: Three-year-old Madeleine McCann vanished during a family holiday in Praia da Luz, Portugal, in May 2007

Heartfelt: Marking the 11th anniversary of their daughter's disappearance in May, parents Kate and Gerry McCann issued a heartfelt statement

Marking the 11th anniversary of their daughter's disappearance in May, parents Kate and Gerry McCann issued a heartfelt statement.

It read: Thank you to everyone who continues to support us and wish us, especially Madeleine, well. After 11 years such warmth and persisting solidarity is truly remarkable.'

The statement continued: 'We couldn't bear for Madeleine to be forgotten or become just a 'story.' 'Thank you so much for staying with us on this mission.'

Madeleine would now be aged 15.She plays Lance Corporal Georgie Lane in award-winning drama Our Girl.

And now Michelle Keegan, 31, has left fans baffled after she appeared on The Andrew Marr Show on Sunday and urged the government to provide more money for the Armed Forces.

The former Coronation Street star also hit back at fan complaints that she looked too perfect on the series and insisted that wearing make-up while serving in the Armed Forces is normal.

Calling for change: Michelle Keegan, 31, has left fans baffled after she appeared onThe Andrew Marr Show on Sunday and urged the government to provide more money for the Armed Forces

Discussing Army cuts, Michelle said: 'I have seen, obviously, what's going on, and I think the government should be pumping more money into the army. 100%.

'They not only fight for our country but they help countries all around the world.'

However her appearance left viewers at home baffled after she was asked her thoughts about the funding cuts and many took to Twitter to say she didn't have the qualifications to voice her opinion on such serious matters.

One viewer posted: 'So @MarrShow #marr is interviewing @michkeegan. However, not a single member of the Govt has been on. Wtaf?!'

Hitting back: The former Coronation Street star also hit back at fan complaints that she looked too perfect on the series and insisted that wearing make-up while serving in the Armed Forces is normal

'Andrew Marr is asking Michelle Keegan about cuts in defence spending, because she acts in a bbc soap about the army. We have reached peak #dumbbritain #marrshow,' another shared.

'#BBC showcasing one of its failing shows on #Marr,' a viewer shared. 'Im not listening to Michelle Keegan on whats supposed to be the primary UK politics show.'

Despite the backlash online, a number of her fans came out in force to thank her for sharing her opinion.

A viewer wrote: 'Fab interview on The Andrew Marr Show!! @michkeegan'.

Baffled: However her appearance left viewers at home baffled after she was asked her thoughts about the funding cuts and many took to Twitter to say she didn't have the qualifications to voice her opinion on such serious matters

Fan: Despite the backlash online, a number of her fans came out in force to thank her for sharing her opinion

She said said: 'A lot of the make-up is down to a minimum. And I have met girls who work in the army and who are medics and they say well, thats normal. Youre not doing anything wrong there, youre still representing the country.'

She also touched upon fan complaints about her make-up look for the programme, insisting that it's true to life.

Michelle said: 'A lot of the make-up is down to a minimum. And I have met girls who work in the army and who are medics and they say well, thats normal. Youre not doing anything wrong there, youre still representing the country.'

The actress previously told The Metro that she couldn't wipe off her eyebrows as they are tattooed on, as she defended her glamorous looks on the show..

No doubt: Michelle said, 'I have seen, obviously, what's going on, and I think the government should be pumping more money into the army. 100%'

'You can wear make-up in the army': Michelle Keegan blasted 'sexist' trolls for slamming her flawless warzone look on Our Girl as 'unrealistic'

Michelle told the publication: 'I remember when the building collapsed and I got a lot of grief because my eyebrows were still intact. Yeah, they are! Because they are tattooed! I can't dust them off

'Everyone was saying, "Oh she's wearing make-up and she's in the Army." You can wear make-up in the Army. And again, it's such a sexist thing to point out.

'And again people in the Army have got micro-bladed eyebrows. I had girls who are in the Army tweeting me going "I've got my eyebrows micro-bladed."

Glamorous Michelle, who joined the cast in 2016, plays the fierce leader and leading lady Corporal Georgie Lane in Our Girl.

Criticised: The actress, 30, has come under fire again and again for her heavily made-up appearance on BBC military drama Our Girl'

The ex soap star proved her dedication to the series when she jetted out to shoot gripping scenes in Nepal, South Africa and Malaysia during her time on the show.

Set in Nigeria, fans of the show will watch emotional Georgie return to the front line after losing her fiance Elvis.

Michelle spent as many as eight months at a time away from the arms of her husband Mark Wright to film with her co-stars.

What a couple: Michelle spent as many as eight months at a time away from the arms of her husband Mark Wright (pictured in London, February 2017) to film with her co-stars

While she has been flying all over the world to film, Mark landed himself the dream gig as a presenter on Extra where he mingles with a galaxy of Hollywood's elite.

Despite previously admitting she finds it hard to be torn away from her love, she confessed she would never consider living with him in Los Angeles full-time.

'I'd love to work in America but I couldn't see myself living out there full time,' she said. 'I'm a home bird.' She clarified. 'It won't be permanent. Definitely not.'Radio host and social media star Tanya Hennessy has opened up about her struggles before finding fame.

While desperately trying to make it in the media, the funnywoman admits she was poor and would sometimes had so little money she would go without food to make ends meet.

In an interview with Stellar magazine, she said: 'I really was poor as f**k for so long.'

'I was poor as f**k!' Tanya Hennessy revealed she was so broke she couldn't eat before finding fame online

'I literally had no money. None. Sometimes I just didnt eat,' she recalled.

Now a success story, the brunette is a radio personality, social media star and is currently working on her debut book, Am I Doing This Right?

The 32-year-old took up unusual jobs as a stilt walker and a costume assistant at Disney World to support her ambition of becoming a successful comedian.

She also tried her hand at acting but, by her own admission, only landed minor roles. She told Mamamia, 'the only job I ever got was, like, busty prostitute four.'

Social media sensation: Tanya has entertained millions with her 'relatable' videos

Tanya, who now hosts on Canberras Hit 104.7, lied to her father about her financial situation, after he became concerned and suggest she get a more stable job.

'I could never give up on comedy, so sometimes Id lie and tell him I was making money,' she said.

'But Im so glad I did lie! Because there was no way I could do anything else - if youre that passionate about something you have to go for it.'

From stressed to success! The brunette now hosts her own radio show and has a book in the works

The brunette has 1.2 million followers across her social media platforms, and attributes her popularity to being 'relatable'.

Her most popular video, a 'realistic' makeup tutorial, boasts 8.9 million views on Facebook.

Despite her success, Tanya has previously admitted she can't watch her own skits.

'I don't really like any of my videos,' she told Mamamia.

She added: 'I find it really tough. I never watch them back. It's weird... people quote my videos back to me and I'm like, "I don't know what you're quoting."'



During an interview granted to the press, Trung said the Emperor, Empress, royal family, and government of Japan welcomed President Quang and his spouse, the only State guests this year, in the highest rituals to a head of State with all respect.

During the stay, the Vietnamese President held talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, issued the Vietnam  Japan Joint Statement, met with Speaker of the House of Representatives and Speaker of the House of Councillors.

He also met leaders of Japanese political parties, held dialogues with Japanese economic organisations, and delivered a speech at the investment promotion conference with over 700 firms taking part.

The leader visited Gunman prefecture and attended a banquet celebrating the 45th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties with the participation of the Emperor and Empress.

During talks and meetings, both sides issued a joint statement that defines major orientations for bilateral ties in the new development period.

They signed and exchanged four cooperation agreements in the fields of environment, construction and training, 17 investment licenses and cooperation deals between businesses and localities in aviation, retail, agriculture, information technology, energy, support industry worth nearly USD2 billion.

About outstanding outcomes of the visit, Trung said the visit has strengthened high political trust, tightened close ties with the Japanese royal, government, parliament, political and economic circles.

Emperor Akihito, PM Abe, leaders of parliament, politicians and economists affirmed that they consider Vietnam an important partner in their countrys policy towards the region. They expressed readiness to cooperate for the sustainable development of Vietnam.

The two countries leaders vowed to push the bilateral extensive strategic partnership into a new development period, and maintain regular exchanges with high-level leaders.

They agreed to intensify exchanges between the two ruling Parties and legislatures, reinforce cooperation in national defence-security and maritime security, and defence technology and equipment.

The Japanese side vowed to continue assisting Vietnam in improving the capacity of legal enforcement at sea, search and rescue, peacekeeping mission, overcoming war consequences via war landmine clearance and provide support for Vietnamese victims of bombs, mines and dioxin.

They promised to step up joint work in human resources development, science-technology, environment, health care, education, culture and locality-to-locality cooperation.

The two sides committed to launching negotiations on the agreement on judicial assistance in criminal matters and the agreement on the transfer of sentenced persons.

Vowing to support Vietnam in administrative reform, Japan announced official development assistance worth nearly USD150 million to improve vocational training capacity, and pledged to step up people-to-people exchange via welcoming more Vietnamese graduates and high-quality workers.

In order to double 2014s two-way trade value by 2020, the two nations will improve the efficiency of economic cooperation mechanisms and make it easier for Japanese oranges and Vietnamese litchis and longans to enter each others market.

Japanese economists spoke highly of Vietnams political stability, socio-economic performance, investment environment and human resources.

They highlighted that Vietnam is an attractive business destination in ASEAN, and considered Vietnam a trustworthy and promising partner of Japan. They added that 70 percent of Japanese firms operating in Vietnam want to expand and do long-term business, invest in the equalization of State-owned enterprises, build infrastructure, and partner in energy, high-tech agriculture and building an automated society.

Hosts and guest vowed to offer mutual liaison at regional and global forums for peace, cooperation and development in the region and the world.

They attached importance to facilitating trade freedom and promoting the enactment of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and expressed support for peace, stability and denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula.

Leaders also declared mutual support for each other to run for a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, with Vietnam for the 2020-2021 tenure and Japan for the 2023-2024 tenure.

Speaking highly of Vietnams role in the region, Japan affirmed support to Vietnams stance on the East Sea issue.

In conclusion, Trung believed that 2018 will start a new, effective and practical development period of the Vietnam  Japan extensive strategic partnership./.Advertisement

After a tense week of passionate semi-final performances, Britain's Got Talent will come to its exciting conclusion on Sunday night.

A weird and wonderful array of acts have competed for the chance to win the 250,000 jackpot and a slot at the Royal Variety Show so far - including a glamorous wartime choir, a junior version of former champions Diversity, and a comedian who leaves viewers in stitches, despite not being able to speak.

So, who will win the 2018 series of Britain's Got Talent? MailOnline takes a look at this year's crowd-pleasing finalists.

MEET THE 2018 BRITAIN'S GOT TALENT FINALISTS Micky P Kerr AGE - 36 ACT - Comedic musician ODDS - 9/1 BACKGROUND - Micky is a primary school teacher from Leeds, who has impressed the judges with his comical songs Bag For Life and I Like Drinking so far. No stranger to the stage, he has previously performed at the Edinburgh Festival and the Musical Comedy Awards MEMORABLE MOMENT - Simon was left baffled when he sang about 'bags for life' because he didn't know what they were - causing co-judge David to quip he wouldn't know, as he hasn't stepped foot in a supermarket since 1981 The Giang Brothers AGE - 28-34 ACT - Aerobic balancing ODDS - 20/1 BACKGROUND - Giang Quoc Nghiep and Giang Quoc Co are brothers from Vietnam, who balance on each other's bodies in an array of impressive positions. They even hold the Guinness World Record for 'the most stairs climbed while balancing a person on the head' - scoring 90 MEMORABLE MOMENT - Viewers and audience alike watched in horror as they walked backwards up the stairs during their dangerous balancing performance, with both blindfolded The D-Day Darlings AGE - 28-40 ACT - 1940s military choir ODDS - 20/1 BACKGROUND - These nine glamorous girls perform classic patriotic songs from World War II in traditional military dress. Using their talents for good, they are registered fundraisers for the Royal British Legion and have raised 40,000 for the organisation over the years MEMORABLE MOMENT - The group - formed of Katie, Charlotte, Emily, Alexandra, Jessica, Emily, Kylie, Louise and Nichola - have put their on spin on Vera Lynn's We'll Meet Again and Land Of Hope And Glory Jack and Tim AGE - 43 and 12 ACT - Father-son singing duo ODDS - 25/1 BACKGROUND - Jack and Tim Goodacre, from Boston, Lincolnshire, are an acoustic act who sing and play on matching guitars. Despite his 12 years of age, Jack has already appeared on The Voice Kids and starred as Zak Mooneyham in School of Rock on London's West End MEMORABLE MOMENT - The pair performed their self-written acoustic hit The Lucky Ones during their audition. Amanda was moved to tears and Simon hit the Golden Buzzer as it reminded him of himself and his son Eric Robert White AGE - 41 ACT - Musical comedian ODDS - 7/4 BACKGROUND - Robert describes himself as 'the only gay, Aspergic, quarter-Welsh comic on the British comedy circuit'. He is known for his chaotic but hilarious improvised skits - which led his show to be named one of funniest at the 2010 Edinburgh Fringe MEMORABLE MOMENT - The comedian joked Alesha looked like a hooker and called 47-year-old Amanda 'old' during one skit. More controversially, he was seen being shoved by rapper Big Narstie live on air, when the musician reportedly took a joke the wrong way Lost Voice Guy AGE - 37 ACT - Stand-up comedian ODDS - 15/8 BACKGROUND - Lee Ridley is one of the most talked about acts this year, as he is unable to speak - and instead performs his witty one-liners through a synthesizer on a tablet. He won the BBC's New Comedy Award in 2014, after being inspired to perform by fellow Geordie, Ross Noble MEMORABLE MOMENT - Poking fun at the automated voice from his iPad, he closed his first skit : 'I know you've been trying to figure out where you know my voice form, maybe it would help if you hear this: 'The next train to arrive at platform 4 is the 12:52 to London's Kings Cross' Donchez Dacres AGE - 60 ACT - Singer-songwriter ODDS - 50/1 BACKGROUND - AA man Donchez delighted viewers with his killer dance moves as well as his singing, and has promised to bring 'something new' for the final. Since his first performance, he has raked in more than 11 million views on YouTube MEMORABLE MOMENT - The silk-shirted singer's gyrations and shimmying to his self-written song 'Wiggle Wine' led David to press his Golden Buzzer, and brand him 'a ray of golden sunshine' Calum Courtney AGE - 10 ACT - Singer ODDS - 80/1 BACKGROUND - 10-year-old Calum first shot to fame in 2017, when he was recorded singing in his local Asda. The schoolboy, who has a mild form of autism, is even believed to have wowed producers, who are hoping to work with him on a charity single for the condition MEMORABLE MOMENT - Calum performed Michael Jackson's Who's Loving You during his first audition, which has since been watched more than a million times on Facebook Gruffydd Wyn AGE - 22 ACT - Opera singer ODDS - 12/1 BACKGROUND - Rugby fan Gruffydd surprised viewers in his first audition with an emotional rendition of Nessun Dorma. Devoted viewers will be familiar with the operatic classic - as it was the track Paul Potts sang in 2007, before he was named the show's first ever winner MEMORABLE MOMENT - Simon initially stopped the singer during his first audition a few seconds into his performance of Un Giorno Per Noi - urging him to 'let go'. However after some water and encouragement from Ant McPartlin, the singer was spurred on for a second try DVJ AGE - 10-16 ACT - Hip-hop and break dance ODDS - 4/1 BACKGROUND - This young dance troupe are a junior version of Diversity, who won the show in 2009, managed by the original group's choreographer Ashley Banjo. The groovers will be hoping to mirror Ashley's success, as he has since become a judge on ITV's Dancing On Ice MEMORABLE MOMENT - Amanda remarked they were 'even better' than their predecessors Diversity, after performing an impressive selection of backflips and stunts during both their audition and semi-final performances The Wildcard - B-Positive Choir AGE - 17-66 ACT - Choir ODDS - 80/1 BACKGROUND - This 30-strong choir are a singing troupe formed by the NHS Blood and Transplant unit, in order to raise awareness for the importance of giving blood. The group have been brought back by the judges for a second chance, after losing out to Calum Courtney and Donchez Dacres in the public vote on Tuesday night MEMORABLE MOMENT - The choir received four yes votes after belting out a rendition of Rise Up during their audition, before dazzling viewers with a performance of This Is Me, from new musical film The Greatest Showman, during the semi-final Advertisement

Britain's Got Talent will come to an explosive climax on Sunday night, with the ten most popular acts so far taking to the stage in a bid to impress both the judges and viewers at home.

Alongside these stars - who were voted in by the public during the semi-finals last week - a wildcard act has been chosen by judges Simon Cowell, David Walliams, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden to return, in a coveted second chance on the show.

The 2018 wildcard was confirmed as the B-Positive Choir on Sunday morning - a singing troupe formed by the NHS Blood and Transplant unit, in order to raise awareness for the importance of giving blood.

BRITAIN'S GOT TALENT 2018 ODDS 7/4 Robert White 15/8 Lost Voice Guy 4/1 DVJ 9/1 Micky P Kerr 12/1 Gruffydd Wyn 20/1 The D-Day Darlings 20/1 Giang Brothers 25/1 Jack and Tim 50/1 Donchez Dacres 80/1 B-Positive Choir 80/1 Calum Courtney Advertisement

Comedians Robert White and Lost Voice Guy are hotly tipped to win by Boyle Sports, with odds of 7/4 and 15/8 respectively, while young crooner Calum Courtney and the wildcard choir come in last at 80/1.

Sunday night's 95-minute final will also see special performances from the cast of the new Tina Turner musical, which opened on the West End in March, and the boys of the live Magic Mike strip show in Las Vegas.

Producers are no doubt hoping the grand finale will run smoothly, after a week of on-air blunders and gaffes during the semi-finals.

Fans were outraged on Saturday when a stunt double was accidentally caught on stage during Mandy Muden's performance - just three days after a crew member was exposed onstage during gymnastics troupe Acrocadabra's routine.

Another blunder saw the ITV hub stream Judge Rinder instead of the semi-final, leaving viewers fuming with the production bosses on Twitter.

The series also kicked off with a technical glitch - which saw the broadcast delayed by several minutes - before a stage invader interrupted proceedings and emerged from the audience to slam the judges' buzzers the following evening.

Host Declan Donnelly was forced to address the problems live on air, telling viewers on Wednesday: 'Welcome back to the start of the semi-final here in London. Now the weather has caused some problems here,' before turning to the judges and joking: 'All going well so far guys?'

The show has crowned a huge range of winners over the years - including opera singer Paul Potts, gymnastic troupe Spelbound, breakdancer George Sampson, dog trick act Ashleigh and Pudsey and magician Richard Jones.

Dance troupe Diversity took the title in 2009, and lead dancer and choreographer Ashley Banjo now manages 2018 act DVJ - which stands for Diversity Juniors.

Singing to the people: The show has crowned a huge range of winners over the years - including opera singer Paul Potts, who was named the first ever champion in 2007 (above)

Champions: Dance troupe Diversity took the title in 2009, and lead dancer and choreographer Ashley Banjo (centre) now manages 2018 act DVJ

Future fame: The show kick-started many of the dancers' television careers - with Ashley (L) scoring a judging role on Dancing On Ice, his brother Jordan (centre) appearing on I'm A Celebrity in 2016, and Perri Kiely winning the Celebrity Bake Off (R)

Second place: Diversity famously pipped singer Susan Boyle to the post, whose album I Dreamed A Dream - released soon after the show - became the UK's best-selling debut album of all time (pictured performing on America's Got Talent 2009)

The show kick-started many of the dancers' television careers - with Ashley scoring judging roles on Dance, Dance, Dance and Dancing On Ice, his brother Jordan appearing on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! and Perri Kiely, the youngest member of the group, winning a round of the Celebrity Bake Off in March.

Diversity famously pipped classical singer Susan Boyle to the post, whose album I Dreamed A Dream - released soon after the show - became the UK's best-selling debut album of all time.

The 57-year-old, from West Lothian, Scotland, also appeared in her own TV special I Dreamed a Dream: the Susan Boyle Story, which featured a duet with Elaine Paige and drew in a huge 10 million viewers in Britain.

She has since released another six albums, and US production company Fox Searchlight has even purchased the rights to Boyle and the creation of a musical film, which will tell the story of her rise to fame.

The most recent series saw Tokio Myers soar to victory, after leaving viewers in tears with his emotional compositions on the piano.

The musician has since released his own album, titled Our Generation, and co-produced the charity rendition of Simon and Garfunkel's Bridge Over Troubled Water, in aid of the tragic Grenfell Tower fire.

The single featured vocals from the likes of Robbie Williams, Rita Ora, Roger Daltrey and James Blunt, as well as guitar work from Queen's Brian May.

The grand final of Britain's Got Talent airs on Sunday 3 June at 7:30pm, on ITVCheyenne Tozzi, 27, is reportedly expecting her first child with Brazilian model boyfriend Marlon Teixeira, 26.

A source close to the model reportedly shared the news with Confidential on Sunday.

The couple of nearly one year are 'thrilled' by their unplanned baby news, according to the report.

Baby joy! Model Cheyenne Tozzi is 'expecting her first child' with Brazilian model boyfriend

The insider also told the publication that Cheyenne is set to make a public announcement regarding the news imminently.

'Cheyenne will have an exciting announcement in the near future, she is expecting her first child,' the insider reportedly told the publication.

The source confirmed the news came as an unexpected surprise, with the two having had no plans of getting pregnant.

Surprise! The couple of nearly one year are reportedly 'thrilled' by their unplanned baby news

Baby on board! 'Cheyenne will have an exciting announcement in the near future, she is expecting her first child,' the insider told the publication

'I think it was a bit of a shock when they found out but it is really great news for both of them,' the source reportedly told the digital outlet.

As Sydney locals, the the two will raise their child close to home and remain living nearby to Cheyenne's mother, the paper reports.

Cheyenne and Marlon were introduced last year through mutual celebrity friend and model Jordan Barrett.

Happy days! 'I think it was a bit of a shock when they found out but it is really great news for both of them,' the source reportedly told the paper

And their celebrity friendships don't end there, with Georgia May Jagger, Elle Macpherson, Cindy Crawford and Alessandra Ambrosio being counted as some of the couples close pals.

Cheyenne last dated KPMG head of mergers and acquisitions Jon Adgemis in October 2015, before calling the two called it quits early 2017.The winner of the popular reality series will bag a huge 250,000 jackpot as well as the opportunity to perform at the Royal Variety Show.

However, new reports now claim that judge Simon Cowell has thrown in an extra prize for the Britain's Got Talent's 2018 champion - a performance in the States.

According to the Daily Star, the Syco owner has organised for this year's winner to perform live on the US equivalent of the show - America's Got Talent - later this year, in a bid to boost their career.

Exciting: Simon Cowell has reportedly thrown in an extra prize for the Britain's Got Talent's 2018 champion - a performance in the States on the US equivalent of the show

The paper reports that the music mogul, 58, has already sealed the deal with the US series, which airs to a huge 15 million people worldwide - and would no doubt shoot the British winner to global success.

A source told the paper, ahead of the much-anticipated BGT final: 'Simon has been working behind the scenes to make this happen.

'He knows this will be a big deal for whichever act wins because it will give them a profile in America. They will effectively win the best prize in BGT history.'

Big chance: Simon has allegedly organised for this year's winner to perform live on America's Got Talent in a bid to boost their career (favourites Lost Voice Guy (L) and Gruffydd Wyn (R))

The likes of One Direction, Taylor Swift and Jessie J have performed on the Stateside series in the past - with another insider claiming few stars would turn down a slot on the show, making it a once-in-a-lifetime chance for this year's BGT winner

They added: 'Established artists are queuing up to perform on [the show] because it has such a massive audience. For a new act to get a spot on the show is a big opportunity.'

The new claims come after Simon himself teased there would be an extra prize for the 2018 series, alongside the huge cash jackpot and chance to perform for the Royal Family.

During the first live show last weekend, the X Factor judge coyly said: 'It's a big, big surprise. But it's worth winning that's all I'll say.'

Impressive: The chance would no doubt shoot the winner to huge success, as it airs to 15 million people worldwide (judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Heidi Klum, and Simon pictured)

MailOnline has contacted both Britain's Got Talent and Syco for further comment.

Britain's Got Talent will come to an explosive climax on Sunday night, with the ten most popular acts so far taking to the stage in a bid to impress both the judges and viewers at home.

Alongside these stars - who were voted in by the public during the semi-final rounds last week - a wildcard act chosen by judges Simon, David Walliams, Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden will also compete.

The 2018 wildcard was confirmed as the B-Positive Choir on Sunday morning - a singing troupe formed by the NHS Blood and Transplant unit, in order to raise awareness for the importance of giving blood.

The grand final of Britain's Got Talent airs on Sunday night at 7:30pm, on ITV.Khloe Kardashian has yet to address claims her baby daddy Tristan Thompson cheated on her with several women while she was pregnant with their baby girl True.

But the 33-year-old star has not been lazy when it comes to updating her fans on her strenuous workout sessions.

On Sunday the Revenge Body star took to Instagram to explain she's working hard with her trainer as she showed off new blonde highlights.

New image: Khloe Kardashian shared a clip from her gym session in Ohio on Sunday

New look: The looker had on a Texas T-shirt and minimal makeup as she did crunches and lunges. Khloe appears to have lost all her baby weight since welcoming her baby in April

The looker had on a black and orange Texas T-shirt and minimal makeup as she did crunches and lunges.

Khloe appears to have lost all her baby weight since welcoming her child in mid April.

This post comes after a new teaser for KUWTK season 15 was released; the show will come out this summer.

Khloe talks about her baby bump, but any mention of love rat Tristan - who she is moving to LA with soon - is left out.

Tough: Khloe says, 'Baby on board!' She is not seen addressing the claims Tristan cheated; DailyMail.com was the first to reveal he had taken up with a new woman. But it is believed his cheating will be tied into the season

Sweet deal: Kim and Khloe are also seen laughing after getting ice cream at Sloan's in Woodland Hills

Kourtney reveals has changed her priorities in the past year.

The 39-year-old beauty has been spending more time with the three children she shares with ex Scott Disick - Mason, 8, Penelope, 5, and Reign, 3 - and she has been taking fun vacations with her younger beau Younes Bendjima.

The eldest Kardashian child said: 'Work is not important to me.'

She loves her kids: Kourtney Kardashian discusses her personal life in the new KUWTK teaser

Mommy time: 'Work is not important to me,' the 39-year-old mother of Mason, 8, Penelope, 5, and Reign, 3, with ex Scott Disick tells Khloe

Kourtney has been seen in LA with all three kids this week as well as her best friend Larsa Pippen.

Meanwhile, her ex Scott is reportedly cheating on his gal pal Sofia Richie who allegedly has broken up with him.

As far as the clip for season 15 of KUWTK, Kourtney's sisters are featured too.

And she likes to party too: Kourtney is seen far left with Kendall Jenner, a pal and Jordyn Woods on Memorial Day Weekend in Calabasas

Kim Kardashian is heard 'things have really changed.'

And she couldn't be more on target.

They're back: The first trailer for the next season of Keeping Up With The Kardashians has been released and all the ladies are seen lined up

Kim time: Kim Kardashian is heard 'things have really changed' and she couldn't be more on target as in the past few months Khloe learned Tristan Thompson has been cheating on her and three of the family members welcomed new babies

KIM time: And Kim has been especially busy: she launched a new perfume and makeup line, and she visited the White House to discuss prison reform

Khloe had True, Kim had Chicago and Kylie welcomed Stormi.

And Kim has been especially busy: she launched a new perfume and makeup line, and she visited the White House to discuss prison reform.

'Things have really changed,' Kim tells her sisters in the 30-second teaser.

WARNING! Kris Jenner, 62, cautions her kids: 'Sooner or later, you guys are going to realize how much you all mean to one another.'

Haute model: Also seen in the video is Kendall on the runway of a fashion show; it looks to be for Alexander Wang

Kris Jenner, 62, cautions her kids: 'Sooner or later, you guys are going to realize how much you all mean to one another.'

Also seen in the video is Kendall on the runway of a fashion show; it looks to be for Alexander Wang.

And Kylie is seen in red and in gloves driving one of her many luxury cars.

Kim and Khloe are also seen laughing after getting ice cream at Sloan's in Woodland Hills.

The next season of KUWTK airs on E! this summer.She looked stunning as she made a surprise appearance at the British Soap Awards 2018 on Saturday night.

But Ashley James wasn't going to let her extravagant night out stop herself from enjoying the rest of her weekend, as she was spotted heading to The Mighty Hoopla festival in London on Sunday.

The 31-year-old reality star looked stylish as she stepped out in a bold red two-piece ensemble which paired an off-the-shoulder crop top with a matching skater skirt.

Turning heads: Ashley James looked stylish in a bold red two-piece ensemble before hitting the decks with pal Charlotte de Carle at The Mighty Hoopla festival in London on Sunday

Showing off a glimpse of her toned abs in the striking outfit, the starlet put on a phenomenal leggy display and added to her already statuesque figure in a pair of open-toe boots.

An avid champion of body confidence, it is no surprise the reality star showcased some serious skin as her casual chic ensemble.

The blonde beauty parted her cropped locks down the middle, and styled them straight so that they framed her face well.

Fashionista: The 31-year-old reality star looked good in the bold outfit which paired an off-the-shoulder crop top with a matching skater skirt

Stylish: The blonde beauty parted her cropped locks down the middle, and styled them straight so that they framed her face well

Brushing on a natural palette of make-up, the star used mascara, highlighter and nude lipstick to accentuate her stunning features.

Keeping her items in a white backpack which had a picture of a unicorn printed on the front, Ashley completed her festival style with a choker necklace and stylish Ray-Ban shades.

The beauty made a successful return to the reality world by appearing on Celebrity Big Brother earlier this year where she had an off-again-on-again romance with rapper Ginuwine in the house.

Stunning: Ashley was joined at the event by her gal pal, and fellow model, Charlotte de Carle, who flaunted her enviable figure in a black mesh shirt

Hitting the decks: The gal pals showcased their skills as they took part in the festival by performing a fun DJ set

Ashley was joined at the event by her gal pal, and fellow model, Charlotte de Carle, who flaunted her enviable figure in a black mesh shirt which showcased her taut abs as she also wore a lace bra.

Pairing her semi-sheer top with denim jeans, the DJ accessorised with tinted sunglasses, headphones, and a silver necklace.

Charlotte also stepped out in a pair of punk chic Chelsea boots, which matched Ashley well, and she carried her denim jacket in her hands.

Headline act: Also seen at the event was former Spice Girl Mel C, who performed on stage in a stunning bedazzled catsuit which she paired with fringed sleeves

Gorgeous: Brushing on a glamorous palette of make-up for her appearance at the festival, the songstress looked stunning as she styled into loose waves and with a middle parting

The gal pals showcased their skills on the decks, as they took part in the festival by performing a fun DJ set.

Also seen at the event was former Spice Girl Mel C, who performed on stage in a stunning bedazzled catsuit which she paired with fringed sleeves.

Brushing on a glamorous palette of make-up for her appearance at the festival, the songstress looked stunning as she styled into loose waves and with a middle parting.

Enjoying it: Mel seemed to be right in her element as she performed passionately on stage

SBrushing on a natural palette of make-up, Ashley used mascara, highlighter and nude lipstick to accentuate her stunning featuresRichard Gere admits he is the "happiest man in the universe" after marrying his third wife Alejandra Silva in April.

The Pretty Woman star, 68, tied the knot with the Spanish activist, 35, in an Indian-inspired ceremony at Gere's ranch outside of New York.

The couple arrived together at the ceremony in a tuk-tuk.

Delighted: Richard Gere admits he is the "happiest man in the universe" after marrying his third wife Alejandra Silva in April

In an interview with Hello! magazine, Gere said: 'I'm the happiest man in the universe. How could I not be?

'I'm married to a beautiful woman who is smart, sensitive, committed to helping people, who's fun, patient, who knows how to forgive, who's a great cook - and who makes the best salads in the world!

'Alejandra meditates, she's a vegetarian, a great mother, has the touch of an angel and she's also Spanish - the land of kings and queens, of Cervantes and Bunuel. You can't get any better than that.'

Over the moon: 'I'm married to a beautiful woman who is smart, sensitive, committed to helping people, who's fun, patient, who knows how to forgive, who's a great cook - and who makes the best salads in the world!' he told Hello!

The couple met after the Hollywood star stayed at a hotel Silva's family owns in Positano in Italy in 2014.

Silva is an activist who runs a charity that aims to eradicate homelessness in Spain. Her foundation hosted a screening of Gere's film The Dinner in 2017.

She revealed that Gere sent her flowers until she agreed to date him and he regularly writes songs for her.

Close: The couple met after the Hollywood star stayed at a hotel Silva's family owns in Positano in Italy in 2014

Speaking about the first time they met, Silva said: 'A friend introduced us, we looked at each other and felt a very strong connection.

'We couldn't stop looking at each other all night, and since then we haven't been apart.'

Gere was previously married to supermodel Cindy Crawford from 1991 to 1995 and actress Carey Lowell from 2002-2016, with whom he had his 18-year-old son Homer.

Silva has a five-year old son from a previous marriage.

Gere is set to play an American media mogul in BBC drama series MotherFatherSon, which is his first television work in almost 30 years.

Read the full article in this week's edition of Hello! magazine which is out now.She's known for her enviable sartorial displays on the red carpet and at glitzy soirees.

And Laura Whitmore put her best fashion foot forward as she attended the Mighty Hoopla festival at London's Brockwell Park on Sunday in her head-turning festival style.

The 33-year-old presenter looked sensational in a floor-length turquoise kimono which teased at her cream bralet underneath.

Festival ready: Laura Whitmore put her best fashion foot forward as she attended the Mighty Hoopla festival at London's Brockwell Park on Sunday in her head-turning festival style

The Irish presenter's statement semi-sheer piece showcased her decolletage and tease at her taut stomach while she posed for photos at the star-studded event.

The blonde beauty layer the attention-grabbing garment over a pair of high-waisted distressed denim shorts that accentuated her slender pins and her casual white trainers.

Letting her kimono do the talking, she simply accessorised her ensemble with a glittering necklace, sprinkling of rings and draped a leather handbag over her shoulder.

She continued her stylish appearance by working her tresses into a tousled look and sported a pair of Ray-Ban aviator shades which drew attention to her bold red lip.

Sneak peek: Laura's appearance at the festival comes after she gave fans a sneak peek into her North London flat

Enviable: She showcased her enviable shoe collection

Style savvy: The 33-year-old presenter looked sensational in a floor-length turquoise kimono which teased at her cream bralet underneath

Her appearance at the festival comes as she gave fans a sneak peek into her two-bedroom North London Victorian apartment which she shares with her Maltipoo Mick on Instagram.

The former I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here Now! presenter, who was catapulted into fame on Pick Me MTV, gave fans a glimpse of her trendy Camden abode online.

Laura, who's dating comedian Iain Stirling, revealed online that her place features an enviable balcony area, an open fireplace in her bedroom and an abundance of kooky art - including an Audrey Hepburn portrait by graffiti artist Pure Evil.

Red alert: She continued her stylish appearance by working her tresses into a tousled look and sported a pair of Ray-Ban aviator shades which drew attention to her bold red lip

Glimpse: Her appearance at the festival comes as she gave fans a sneak peek into her two-bedroom North London Victorian apartment which she shares with her Maltipoo Mick on Instagram

Home sweet home: The former I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here Now! presenter, who was catapulted into fame on Pick Me MTV, gave fans a glimpse of her trendy Camden abode online

Green fingers: Laura, who's dating comedian Iain Stirling, revealed online that her place features an enviable balcony area, an open fireplace in her bedroom and an abundance of kooky art - including an Audrey Hepburn portrait by graffiti artist Pure Evil

BBQ time: Her place also features an impressive BBQ which allows her to entertain friends and family

The Wicklow native's home sees her guitar and record player take pride of place in her living room, which also sees a large leather corner sofa, a jam-packed bookshelf and large dining table.

Elsewhere, Laura's master bedroom features a massive queen-sized bed, thick grey curtains and a TV.

She also displayed her impressive shoe collection in her enviable room which sees a mix of statement designer heels alongside her glittering Chelsea boots.

Hitting the right notes: The Wicklow native's home sees her guitar and record player take pride of place in her living room

Music: Her record player is certainly a feature of her living room

Relaxed: Her living room sees a large leather corner sofa and a jam-packed bookshelf

Chilled: A TV stands infront of her statement couch

While her home is filled with fashion and her past media passes, Laura's outdoor space has been given the midas touch as it boasts leafy potted plants across a trestles and is lit up with fairy lights.

Speaking to the Irish Times last year, Laura said: 'I bought this flat in an old Victorian building with open brickwork in Camden and when my father saw it he said, 'Its very you  a bit quirky.

'I have been here now about five years and I love things like the open fireplace in the bedroom. Over the years I have added my little bits and pieces like records and albums and the various awards like the MTV Award and the Olympic Torch.'

Slumber: Elsewhere, Laura's master bedroom features a massive queen-sized bed, thick grey curtains and a TV

Check her out: Laura's mirror selfie showcased all the media passes she had draped over her furnitureJennifer Garner seemed to arrive late for a church service in Pacific Palisades, California on Sunday.

The busy mom, 46, was caught jogging through the side door of her place of worship.

The beauty wore all black and carried a bottle of Italian water.

Hurry up: With wet hair and simple, casual clothes, Jennifer Garner, 46, hurried into church in Pacific Palisades, California by herself on Sunday

Keeping traditions alive: The Alias star has also been spotted attending the service frequently with Ben

The Houston native wasn't ashamed to make it quite obvious she was in a hurry and running late.

She not only had wet hair that was pulled back into a messy bun, but she also sported a super casual look.

Jen had on black, slip-on sandals and was holding a dark green tote bag off her shoulder. The only thing she had in her hand was her phone.

She accented with dark, squared shades. And it didn't look like the actress was wearing any makeup.

Co-parenting: Ben recently purchased a $19.2 million dollar home less than a mile from Jennifer's current digs in Los Angeles

Being irresponsible with time didn't seem to bring down Ben Affleck's wife of 12 years. She still managed to have a smile on her face all while rushing into the building.

Her three children that she shares with Ben weren't anywhere to be seen, either. Although, their youngest daughter Seraphina, 9, and only son Samuel, 6, did attend the same church service with their mother back in early May.

The former couple also have a 12-year-old daughter named Violet.

This won't be the last time Jennifer will be spotted attending the service at Pacific Palisades - in fact - she has revealed that she goes weekly.

Speaking to Good Morning Texas in 2016, the Miracles From Heaven star said she grew up going weekly and was happy the tradition has been passed down.

Mom-of-three: Jennifer shares Violet, 12, Seraphina, age nine, and Samuel, 6, with Ben. The couple split back in April 2015

Nice start to a Sunday! Jennifer looked in good spirits going into her AM worship session

'I grew up going to church every Sunday of my life, and when I did move to L.A., it wasn't something that was just part of the culture there in the same way, at least in my life. But it didn't mean that I lost who I was,' she said.

Her next film is the action movie Peppermint

'There was something about doing this film [Miracles From Heaven] and talking to my kids about it and realizing that they were looking for the structure of church every Sunday.

'So it was a great gift of this film that it took us back to finding our local Methodist church and going every Sunday. It's really sweet.'

Jennifer has also been spotted attending the service frequently with Ben.

Jen and Ben split back in 2015, but they've done their best to co-parent.

The Batman star recently purchased a $19.2 million dollar home less than a mile from Jennifer's current digs in Los Angeles.

'Everyone has a good relationship,' a source told E! News. 'They are adults who are co-parenting. He was looking for a long time and really wanted to find the right house for his family.'

Affleck also put his 87-acre Georgia compound on the market. The house is currently listed at $8.9 million.Kyle Richards is not attending Barron Hilton's wedding to socialite Tessa Grafin von Walderdorff in St Barths this weekend.

But her daughter Farrah is.

And the brunette beauty managed to steal the show with her racy Instagram photos that feature her in low-cut dresses.

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Chip off the ole block: Kyle Richards is not attending Barron Hilton's wedding to Tessa Grafin von Walderdorff, a socialite, in St Barths this weekend. But her daughter Farrah is

Haute stuff: And the brunette beauty managed to steal the show with her racy Instagram photos that show her in low-cut dresses

Farrah has grown into a knockout who knows how to make her Instagram account sizzle.

Several images show her in fun outfits perfect for the tropical climate.

In one, the raven-haired LA resident looked in a mirror as she wore a plunging green dress.

Just like mama: Kyle and her daughter Farrah out for dinner in LA in 2013

Kyle no 2: She also posed in a colorful dress with a straw hat, looking a lot like her mom, who is a star on the Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills

Details: The beauty, who works for Mauricio Umansky's real estate agency The Agency, is 29-years-old

Later she was photographed by a blue scooter showing the full length of her pretty maxi gown.

She also posed in a colorful off-the-shoulder dress with a straw hat, looking a lot like her mom, who is a star on The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills.

The beauty, who works for her stepfather Mauricio Umansky's real estate agency The Agency, is 29-years-old.

Family ties: Farrah also posed with Barron and Tessa as well as Kim Richard's daughter

She was born Farrah Aldjufrie and her father is Kyle's first husband Guraish Aldjufrie. They were married from 1988 to 1992.

Farrah also posed with Barron and Tessa as well as Kim Richard's daughter.

The two are set to tie the knot in St Barths on Sunday.

Ready to say I do: Paris Hilton's younger brother Barron is about to get married. And on Saturday the 30-year-old held his rehearsal dinner with fiancee Tessa Grafin von Walderdorff, a socialite

With daddy: Here the pair are seen with his father Rick Hilton, 62. He is the chairman and co-founder of Hilton & Hyland, a real estate brokerage firm based in Beverly Hills

Sister Nicky Hilton was also there, but aunt Kyle Richards is not expected to make the wedding.

The handsome blonde Hilton and the 24-year-old beauty were spotted wearing white in an Instagram photo.

She had on a white lace bustier with a sweetheart neckline and a white necklace with her hair in a braid.

Future marrieds: The couple were seen dancing as well with the caption, 'Love is in the air'

With more guests: Here they are posed with wedding guests Kara Alloway and her pal

He wore a white shirt and slacks with stubbly facial hair.

The two posed with his father Rick Hilton, 62. He is the chairman and co-founder of Hilton & Hyland, a real estate brokerage firm based in Beverly Hills.

The couple were seen dancing as well with the caption, 'Love is in the air.'

More with daddy: This image shows the couple with Rick again; here they are outside by the pool that overlooks the beach in St Barths

There were also images of the two walking down the aisle of a church in the tourist town.

They were arm in arm and wore casual clothing for the rehearsal. The caption simply read, 'Rehearsal time.'

Brass chandeliers hung from the ceiling, there was a cross in the front of the church, and a woman was on her violin.

They got it down: There were also images of the two walking down the aisle of a church in the tourist town. They were arm in arm and wore casual clothing for the rehearsal. The caption simply read, 'Rehearsal time'

Meanwhile, his sister Paris has been showing photos of herself in swim wear on her Instagram page.

She had on a My Little Pony bikini then switched into a black one piece.

On Saturday the DJ modeled a white lace swimsuit. Also with her is actor fiance Chris Zylka; they are set to wed in the fall.She dazzled on the red carpet earlier in the evening in a jaw-dropping floor-length gown.

And after toasting to her soap's success, Jennifer Metcalfe was pictured leaving the Hollyoaks British Soap Awards afterparty at House of Ho in London bleary-eyed and barefoot in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The 35-year-old soap star, who saw her soap take home three awards from the coveted ceremony, really let her hair down following the star-studded event while she celebrated the major feat.

Bleary-eyed: Jennifer Metcalfe was pictured leaving the Holloyoaks British Soap Awards afterparty at House of Ho in London bleary-eyed and barefoot in the early hours of Sunday morning

Stepping: The 35-year-old took off her shoes after dancing the night away

Holding up her floor-grazing gown, Jennifer displayed her bare feet as she commanded the pavement and made her way to her waiting car.

Although turning heads hours earlier in her striking look, Jennifer suffered a wardrobe malfunction with her gown as the hem had appeared to rip from the seam.

Earlier in the evening, the Channel 4 star was pictured with he brunette coif in a chic chignon and later was pictured with her waist-length locks loose in a tousled curl.

Once making herself comfortable in the taxi, the soap star pulled a number of faces as she began her journey home.

Celebrations: The 35-year-old soap star saw her soap take home three awards from the coveted ceremony

Wow: Jennifer arrived to Hackney Empire in London on Saturday looking utterly glamorous

Having a laugh: Jennifer couldn't contain her laughter as she waited for her cab

Free: She held on tightly to the hem of her dress while she waited outside the venue

Ripped: Jennifer's dress ripped from the seam and flashed her pins

Hanging out: She waited outside the venue with a pal

Chit chat: Jennifer animatedly chatted to pals outside

Jennifer's co-stars Chelsee Healey and Stephanie Waring were also in attendance at the fun-filled evening.

Her bleary-eyed appearance comes after she stepped onto the red carpet dressed to impress as she arrived at the British Soap Awards, Arrivals at the Hackney Empire in London on Saturday.

The mother-of-one sashayed across the red carpet in a ruffled nude gown which featured pretty pleats that cascaded down the floor-length gown for a flirty vibe.

The nude coloured number looked sensational against her skin and she clearly had fun with it as she twirled up a storm on the red carpet.

Low-key: She appeared in jovial spirits

Walk this way: She didn't have a care in the world as she walked around barefoot

Happy out: She grinned as she chatted to her fellow cast and crew

Fun times: Jennifer stood out on the street without her heels

Bag it up: She draped her goodie bag over her forearm

Flagging down: Jennifer and a pal put their arm out to flag a taxi

Giggle: Jennifer couldn't contain her laughter while she flashed her soil covered feet

Flaunting her sensational decolletage with the number's bardot neckline, Jennifer oozed daytime glamour in the number.

She added to the whimsical vibe with a casual plait, with a few loose tendrils framing her striking features.

Relying on her naturally striking features, the star sported a simple slick of make-up, focusing on rosy blusher and dewy highlighter.

Jennifer welcomed her first child Daye in June 2017 with her beau Greg Lake.

Waiting: Joining Jennifer outside was co-star Stephanie Waring

Glam: Despite partying into the early hours of the morning, Stephanie remained as glamorous as she looked on the red carpet in her blue gown

Taking a break: She puffed on a vape as she waited for a cab

Mane attraction: Her golden tresses remained in a sleek style

Chic: She popped her phone into her slender clutch bag

Metallic muse: Chelsee Healey looked in jovial spirits as she enjoyed a cigarette before calling it a night

And the TV queen recently admitted to OK! magazine that she ready to return to Hollyoaks in June as her feisty character Mercedes McQueen after going on maternity leave.

Talking about her return to the popular Channel 4 soap, she added: 'Daye is ready for nursery now and his next chapter, and Im ready to have a bit of a life as well.'

Meanwhile, the great and the good of the soap world have descended on The British Soap Awards 2018 hosted at Hackney Empire, in London for the biggest night of television star's calendar in the summer months.

EastEnders, Coronation Street, Doctors, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks will battle it out to see who lands Best British Soap, with all of their best stars up for nominations from Villain Of The Year to Best Actor.

This Morning star Phillip Schofield returns to hosting the British Soap Awards 2018, with the television presenter handing out the award duties for a decade since 2008.

Goodnight: She said goodbye to a pal before jumping into her cab home



Before leaving Tokyo, the State leader and his spouse had a warm farewell meeting with the Emperor and Empress.

The President also had a meeting with the Vietnamese Embassys staff and the Vietnamese nationals in the East Asian country, during which he hailed the contributions made by the Vietnamese expatriates to deepening the Vietnam-Japan cooperative ties.

He spoke highly of the Vietnamese representative organisations efforts to overcome challenges to fulfill their tasks entrusted by the Party and State.

He briefed the Vietnamese nationals about the homelands socio-economic situation and its robust economic growth as well as stable security and defence.

Regarding the relations with Japan, President Quang said that the country is a leading strategic partner of Vietnam in various fields. Thus, the Party and States consistent policy is to develop the extensive strategic ties with Japan.

After 45 years of diplomatic establishment, both nations have enjoyed fruitful relations with regular high-ranking and people-to people exchanges, increasingly political trust, and deepened collaboration in economy, trade, investment, education, tourism and defence.

President Quang said his State visit to Japan was a success.

During his stay, he met with the Emperor, held talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and had meetings with political and economic leaders of Japan. He delivered speech at a trade promotion conference which drew the participation of 600 enterprises from both sides. Also, he attended a ceremony to mark 45th anniversary of the bilateral relations.

He asked the Vietnamese Embassy and other representative organisations to further efforts to carry out agreements inked between the two leaders, attract ODA and FDI capital, accelerate transfer of technology as well as foster collaboration in the fields with potential.

The embassy should carry out sound citizen protection measures and the Vietnamese people community must comply with regulations in the host country, he said.

The State leader also expressed his hope that the Vietnamese nationals will work to contribute more to the Vietnam-Japan relations.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Nguyen Quoc Cuong affirmed that the embassy always does it utmost to foster the extensive strategic ties between the two countries./.An upcoming Australian version of Mob Wives following the lives of Melbourne and Sydney underworld WAGs almost featured Roxy Jacenko among its line-up, Daily Mail Australia can reveal.

TV network bosses were eager for the publicist, 37, to join the cast of gangsters' wives and girlfriends because of her husband Oliver Curtis' notoriety as a convicted insider trader.

During a confidential meeting between the show's creative team and a local production company, it was suggested that Roxy replace cast member Roberta Williams, who was apparently considered 'too infamous'.

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EXCLUSIVE: An upcoming Australian version of Mob Wives following the lives of Melbourne and Sydney underworld WAGs almost featured Roxy Jacenko among its line-up

However, the creator of Mob Wives Australia disagreed, arguing that Roberta - the ex-wife of late Melbourne gangster Carl Williams - was 'central to the show' and could not be replaced.

A source told Daily Mail Australia on Sunday: 'They wanted Roberta out and Roxy in, but it wasn't going to happen.

'It's called Mob Wives, not White Collar Criminal Wives. Having an insider trader for a husband doesn't qualify you for the show - not even close.'

Shes hardly a Mob Wife! TV execs were eager for the publicist, 37, to join the cast of gangsters' wives and girlfriends because of her husband Oliver Curtis' notoriety as an insider trader

Roxy's husband Oliver Curtis, 32, was convicted of conspiracy to commit insider trading in June 2016 and sentenced to two years in prison.

He served 12 months behind bars before being released from Cooma Correctional Centre in June 2017 on a good behaviour bond.

Roxy told Daily Mail Australia on Sunday: 'Mob Wives? I may have just laughed out loud! That's the first I have heard of it!'

Not glamorous enough? During a meeting between the Mob Wives Australia creative team and a production company, it was suggested that Roxy replace cast member Roberta Williams, who was apparently considered 'too infamous'. Pictured Roberta and Carl Williams in 2004

Not happening! However, the creator of Mob Wives Australia disagreed, arguing that Roberta - the ex-wife of late Melbourne gangster Carl Williams - was 'central to the show' and could not be replaced. Pictured: Roxy Jacenko and Oliver Curtis arriving at court in June 2016

Roberta Williams is considered the most infamous of the Melbourne gangland wives. She was portrayed by Kat Stewart in the 2008 television series Underbelly.

Carl Williams, a convicted murder and drug trafficker, was beaten to death at Barwon Prison, in Lara, Victoria, in 2010.

Mob Wives Australia, which is a working title and is subject to change, is an independent production about the wives of criminals that will likely air on a cable channel.

However, a broadcast partner is yet to be confirmed.

There has been talk of American TV syndication deals as well as interest from online streaming services.

'It's called Mob Wives, not White Collar Criminal Wives': The Mob Wives creative team shut down any suggestion that Roberta (pictured in 2014) should be replaced by a more glamorous cast member arguing, quite rightly, that Roxy was not a 'Mob Wife' by anyone's definitionOne of the BBCs top female stars has criticised the corporation for its treatment of new mothers  revealing it doesnt have a creche or a room where they can prepare for feeding.

Alex Jones, who presents The One Show, returned to work just three months after giving birth to her first child Teddy in January last year.

She said the BBC talks a good game but lacks basic facilities to help new mothers.

The Welsh presenter, 41, added that the BBCs male-dominated environment forced her to give up breastfeeding because there was nowhere for her to express milk at the New Broadcasting House headquarters.

Alex Jones, who presents The One Show, returned to work just three months after giving birth to her first child Teddy in January last year

The Welsh presenter, 41, added that the BBCs male-dominated environment forced her to give up breastfeeding because there was nowhere for her to express milk at the New Broadcasting House headquarters

Miss Jones said: Companies say all the right things. They say yes were there  were going to support families, make it possible for dads to take paternity leave, for mothers to take extended maternity leave, to feed at work.

Actually the truth is, the facilities still arent there. They talk a good game but even at the BBC there isnt a creche, there isnt a room where you can express, there isnt a fridge where you can keep your milk.

Nobody says you have to keep up breastfeeding but that was just something I wanted to do.

But I work in quite a male-dominated environment and its hard to be doing a meeting and trying to express breast milk. It just didnt work and so I had to throw in the towel.

Speaking to BBC radio presenter Clemency Burton-Hill at the Hay Festival, Miss Jones added jokingly that she hoped there were no BBC executives in the audience.

Miss Burton-Hill, the co-presenter of Radio 3s weekday breakfast show, said she had a similar experience of being a new mother at the BBC.

Miss Jones added jokingly that she hoped there were no BBC executives in the audience

She said there is a breastfeeding room at her offices in Old Broadcasting House  but that she would walk in with her breasts about to explode only to find men sleeping on the sofas. She said: I used [the room] every day in 2014. You have to really know what youre looking for and it is down a corridor. You get in there, its dark, its smelly, it hasnt been cleaned for a week.

I used to go in there at 9am and find these blokes on the sofa having a kip from overnight news channel shifts... the men would look resentful that I roused them from their beauty sleep. Miss Jones, who is married to insurance broker Charlie Thomson, added she suffered from maternity leave paranoia over her job.

She said: I rushed back to work three months after my first child and there was no need.

The BBC went out of their way to tell me not to worry and that they would keep my job.

But I was still worried about my stand-in, thinking what if they are amazing, what if they are brilliant.

Miss Jones, who became pregnant at 39, is promoting her parenting book Winging It, which is aimed at older first-time mothers who continue to work after giving birth.

A BBC spokesman said the corporation already offers flexible working, job-shares and childcare vouchers. He added that BBC Scotland director Donalda Mac-Kinnon was leading research into what more can be done to support mothers, and women more generally, in the workplace.Tensions in the South China Sea are only warming up but Australia's options beyond a "vigorous diplomatic assertion" are limited, former foreign minster Bob Carr believes.

China has deployed anti-ship missiles, surface to air missiles and other military equipment on the disputed Spratly Islands and Woody Island.

Mr Carr says Senator Jim Molan's "brutally realistic" assessment last week that China had won in the South China Sea was backed publicly and privately by other senior military members.

"If you're reading the balance of power in the situation there are Australians in our military who would say that China's achieved its objectives," he told Sky News on Sunday morning.

"I don't see what options Australia's got beyond a vigorous diplomatic assertion and what options America has got beyond continuing freedom of navigation patrols perhaps on a more regular rotation than what's happening now."

Mr Carr supported comments made by Defence Minister Marise Payne overnight at the Shangri-La Dialogue, an annual defence and security summit.

"Nations must also have the right to be free from coercion or criticism when they lawfully and reasonably communicate concerns about the behaviour of others," she said.

Those words were in turn echoed by US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis who raised the prospect of further action by the US against China's militarisation of man made islands in the region.A second man accused of threatening to kill a 12-year-old boy and repeatedly stabbing his father in the yard of their Cairns home four years ago has been extradited from Victoria.

The 35-year-old Edmonton man was arrested on Thursday and extradited to Queensland on the weekend.

He was refused bail and will appear in Cairns Magistrates Court on Monday charged with six offences, including assault occasioning bodily harm while armed and kidnapping for ransom.

His co-accused was extradited from NSW on May 16 and is due to face charges in the Cairns Magistrates Court on August 1.

Police allege threats were made to kill the boy and his 60-year-old father was repeatedly stabbed during an attempted robbery of their Westcourt home in 2014.Labor is keeping up pressure on Michaelia Cash over her involvement in police raids on AWU offices, but she will be out of the spotlight while she is in Singapore to spruik Australian innovation.

Senator Cash is challenging a court order relating to AFP raids of AWU offices in Melbourne and Sydney over an investigation into a $100,000 donation from the union to activist group GetUp! in 2006.

She avoided questions on the subject during a sometimes farcical clash with Labor senator Murray Watt during a Senate estimates hearing last week.

Labor's workplace relations spokesman Brendan O'Connor says Senator Cash has spent $600,000 of taxpayers' money avoiding courts, and is now arguing she can't answer questions in the Senate because of a police investigation.

"If she is under investigation by the police, then she should go to court and answer the questions subject to the subpoena ... or if she is not under investigation she should answer questions in the Senate," he told ABC television on Sunday.

"This is cannot continue to go on, this obfuscation by the minister and the government.

"The prime minister must act, and intervene and either sack the minister or force her to answer these questions."

Senator Cash, the minister for jobs and innovation, will be in Singapore from Sunday till Wednesday to meet with her ministerial counterparts.

During her visit, she will address Singapore's Smart Nation Innovations Week, where more than 20,000 people will gather to learn about disruptive innovations and the Australian Chamber of Commerce to promote Australia's investment in the appropriate digital infrastructure and innovation to support job creation.

She will also exchange ideas on the promotion of women working in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine sectors.All Blacks back Jordie Barrett says an innocent mistake led to police being called when he ended up in strangers' house in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Hurricanes star Barrett became the subject of front page headlines in New Zealand when it was revealed he and a male friend were found eating takeaways in a Dunedin flat at 5am.

The occupants of the flat, two women, contacted police who questioned the two men before taking no further action.

The incident came in the aftermath of the visiting Hurricanes' Super Rugby loss to the Highlanders on Friday night.

Barrett told journalists on Sunday the two men thought the flat belonged to a friend so walked through an unlocked door.

"I can't say I'm embarrassed by what's happened, I'm just disappointed with the events that have unfolded," Barrett said.

"I don't believe I've caused any harm to anyone, haven't spoken to anyone, basically it was a human error, walked into the wrong flat and we left."

Barrett denied being intoxicated, explaining he had enjoyed a couple of drinks and had a clear recollection of the entire night.

He assumed the police were contacted because the women had heard a noise in their house.

By that stage, the men had realised their mistake and had already left.

"They (police) came and questioned us, asked a few questions and then we were released and then went back to the hotel."

The incident came a week out from the start of the three-Test series between the All Blacks and France.

Fullback Barrett, the younger brother of World Rugby player of the year Beauden Barrett, is a potential member of the squad for the first Test in Auckland.A 45-year-old man has been extradited from Queensland to Perth and charged over the death of Dean Patrick White, whose body was found in a rural camp area in Western Australia more than a year after he vanished.

The man was arrested in Woodford on Friday and appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court where the extradition application was granted.

WA Homicide Squad detectives took the man to the Perth Watch House on Saturday and charged him with interfering with a corpse to hinder an inquiry. The investigation is ongoing.

Mr White, 55, was last known to be in the Quairading area on March 31 last year and his body was found in a camp area north of the Wheatbelt town in April.The head of an indigenous drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre believes it will have to stop taking clients from September because of federal government funding cuts.

Services provided by the Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Council in South Australia can't continue without ongoing funding for its main body, its chief executive Scott Wilson says.

The council receives $4.5 million a year from the federal government to operate a residential rehabilitation centre in Port Augusta and two day centres in Ceduna and Port Augusta.

But Mr Wilson says he received a call last week, during reconciliation week, to say while funding for the facilities would continue they'd stop receiving $700,000 a year for administrative facilities and wages, including his own, from January 1.

"When you don't actually have the legal entity being funded you can't actually operate the other services at all," he told Sky News.

"It's almost like having an airline but no airport to land."

He said the cut would mean staff could only be offered six month contracts and the residential treatment centre would probably stop taking clients from September this year.

"Without us there is simply no voice," Mr Wilson said in a statement.

"We need the funding back. We have so many clients in crisis who need our help."

Comment is being sought from Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion.Halfback Ben Hunt has dismissed injury concerns ahead of Wednesday's State of Origin opener in Melbourne after Queensland's players with fitness worries trained strongly on Sunday.

Hunt (thigh) had until Sunday to prove his fitness and impressed in an opposed session with the Queensland under 18 side at their Gold Coast training camp, along with Billy Slater (hamstring) and Josh McGuire (ankle).

"I had a full contact session and I got through that fine. The physio said it (corked thigh) is all sweet now," Hunt said.Dr Anthony Ablong's quest to discover how his father died in World War II has ended in an emotional journey to London to see his dad's bravery and death finally recognised.

Alfred Ablong was shot dead at age 55 by a sniper during Japan's invasion of Hong Kong in December 1941.

The father of seven was volunteering as an air raid warden and was on a daring hunt for food and supplies for starving civilians when he was killed.

But for years his family didn't know how he died and in the confusion of war Mr Ablong's death was not reported to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

His youngest son Dr Anthony Ablong spent decades researching and he's finally delivered "due justice" to his father nearly 80 years after his death.

Dr Ablong, 82, recently flew to London to see his father's name added to the CWGC's Civilian Rolls of Honour at Westminster Abbey.

"This quest of mine was to make sure my father got due justice, if you like," Dr Ablong said after the ceremony.

"Now I can understand the fables about searching for the Golden Fleece and finding it."

Dr Ablong's voice broke up as he explained the feeling of completing his history-fixing journey and seeing his father recognised.

"It's an emotional time and I think I'm still going through it," he said.

"Probably some time this evening I'll have a period of reflection where I'll probably end up balling my eyes out."

Dr Ablong was only five years old and living with his family in Hong Kong when his father died.

His family home was shelled and destroyed but his mother and siblings saw out the war in Hong Kong.

The Ablongs spent years at a civilian internment camp and were later secreted off to the then-Portugese colony of Macau.

Dr Ablong was later repatriated to Australia because his father was Australian, and he has lived in Canberra since.

During his research into his father's death, Dr Ablong returned to his former home of Hong Kong, where he obtained military records.

"I revisited Hong Kong and walked through all the areas I had experienced during World War II.

"I visited the very road my father was shot by a Japanese sniper."

Mr Ablong's name was among more than 130 added to the honor rolls, having been missed from the original rolls for various reasons, including war-time secrecy.

They include three boys, aged 11, 12, and 13, who died in an explosion at a school in Surrey after a bomb was taken back to their dormitory and fell to the floor.

The handwritten rolls contain more than 68,000 names and are held in Westminster Abbey near the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.



At the launching ceremony, jointly held by the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union and the local authority, Head of the Party Central Committees Mass Mobilisation Commission Truong Thi Mai lauded the youths contribution to the society through voluntary activities and summer volunteer campaigns.

Urging the youths to renew their activities, Mai said that the campaign should pay due attention to urgent issues like environment protection, traffic safety, and civilised urban areas, among others.

The summer volunteer campaign will take place from June 6th to August 31st under the theme of Innovative youths, volunteer for community. It will include an array of activities like Tiep Suc Mua Thi (Assistance during Exam Season), Hoa Phuong do (flamboyant flower) campaign, Ky nghi hong (Red Holiday), and Hanh quan xanh (green operation).

The activities will be organised in 93 impoverished districts and the districts which have just escaped from poverty, polluted areas in 28 coastal provinces and cities, and international land in Laos and Cambodia.

As planned, the youths will repair 1,000 kilometres of road, construct 120 kilometres of new road, build 100 modern streets across the nation, and provide free medical examinations and medicines for 500,000 residents. Meanwhile, beach cleanup activities will be maintained in all 28 coastal localities.

At the launching ceremony, the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Unions Central Committee presented 70 gifts to poor students and policy beneficiary families. Also, nine schools worth over VND10 billion (USD440,000), 13 mobile swimming pools worth VND650 million (USD28,600), 37 playgrounds worth VND1.65 billion (USD72,600), and four clean water facilities worth VND40 million (USD1,760) were handed over to the locality.

The same event was observed in Kong Plong district, the Central Highlands province of Kon Tum on June 1st./.An Australian pedophile has died after spending more than a month in a coma following a car accident in Brazil.

Christopher John Gott, 63, was in April revealed to be in a Rio de Janeiro hospital, more than 20 years after fleeing Australia while on parole for child sex offences.

SBS reports he was confirmed dead on Thursday from multiple organ failure, citing Rio authorities.

In a statement to AAP, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was providing assistance to the family of a man who died in Brazil.Citrus growers have put the federal government on notice to maintain a healthy trade relationship with China as the industry announces record seasons.

Citrus Australia chief executive Nathan Hancock told reporters on Sunday the industry was booming after gaining access to China's massive market.

"In 2013 we were close to zero export tonnes to China... In 2017, we exceeded 70,000 tonnes to China," he told ABC.

The industry body, in January, called for more growers to register for exports to China noting 2017 had been a record year and the "upward trajectory" was expected to continue.

"By the end of September, exports of citrus totalled 220,754 tonnes to a value of $377 million," Citrus Australia said in an online statement.

"The result was 18 per cent above last year for the same period by volume and 31 per cent higher by value."

But it didn't come easy - China's regulations threw up "enormous administrative challenges" which required investment in industry delegations and pest control to overcome.

Citrus Australia's website has numerous publications and pages indicating it's working hard to bolster relations with its most lucrative partner.

Mr Hancock reportedly warned the government not to jeopardise the hard work with bad diplomacy.

"Only a few years ago we signed a free trade agreement with China and now we find ourselves in the situation where China is threatening to stop trade with us, and teach us a lesson through trade," he told Reuters.

His warning comes as relations between the two countries cool in part over a Turnbull government bill which aims to limit foreign influence in Australia, including political donations. Beijing saw the move as "anti-China".

The government downplayed fears last week Australian wine giant Treasury Wines was being delayed as it attempted to import product to China.Tiger Woods is trying desperately to reel in the leaders midway through the final round at the US PGA Tour's Memorial tournament.

Woods, a five-time winner at the Ohio event at Muirfield Village, currently sits at 11-under-par but is losing ground on Patrick Cantlay, who has taken sole possession of the lead at 17 under through seven holes.

Cantlay, who aced the par-3 eighth hole during the third round, holds a two-shot cushion over 54-hole leader Bryson DeChambeau and Kyle Stanley at 15 under, while former amateur world No.1 Joaquin Niemann shares fourth two shots back.

Woods is trying hard to channel his winning ways at the Jack Nicklaus-hosted event, bagging two birdies in his first five holes but he was unable to pick up a shot at the reachable par-5 seventh prior to missing a mid-range birdie attempt at the ninth.

Meanwhile, the Australian contingent at Muirfield Village is fizzling on the final day.

Adam Scott has dropped a shot through 10 holes to fall to seven under in a share of 29th, leaving himself an uphill battle to jag a top-five result which would give his US Open qualification hopes a huge boost.

Next best of the Australians at five under is Marc Leishman, who is even for the day nearing completion of his round.

Former world No.1 Jason Day, a resident of nearby Columbus and a member at Muirfield Village, has dropped two shots to sink to four under.The man who governed the NSW prison where officers allegedly bashed an inmate, colluded to cover up their use of force and planted drugs will face a corruption inquiry into the incident.

John O'Shea, the most senior prison officer at Lithgow Correctional Centre in February 2014, is the last witness listed to give evidence before a NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption public hearing in Sydney.

The two-week probe returns on Monday with evidence from fellow witnesses Brad Peebles, the former manager of security who has admitted reports filed were inconsistent with what he saw, and senior correctional officer Jane Lohse.

The trio are the last to front the inquiry under Commissioner Stephen Rushton SC since it began on May 21.

The prisoner, a bikie associate who can't be named for legal reasons, says he was attacked by a group of officers and blacked out after they mistook him for his cellmate who had been "a bit rude" over the intercom.

Mr Peebles last week told the inquiry Mr O'Shea had been on the other end of the call and walked up to the cell door to give the man a dressing down before a specially-trained unit, including a dog squad officer, arrived.

Reports within the incident's "use of force package" state the inmate suffered a black eye, mouth bruising and injured ribs when he ran to flush contraband and "fell heavily" onto the toilet after a search team entered the cell.

Two officers have since admitted the files were fabricated.

Video of the area outside the cell was also not included in the package, which was signed off on by Mr O'Shea.

"In this case, the CCTV footage should have been there. Even if it shows nothing," Mr Peebles said.

He also assured the commissioner he was not involved in any cover-up.

The inquiry has heard from a number of guards present, including evidence some prison officers were "heavy-handed" in their approach and those suspected of reporting inappropriate conduct were labelled as "dogs".Pope Francis has appointed Gregory O'Kelly, the bishop of Port Pirie, the special administrator of Adelaide following the conviction of Archbishop Philip Wilson for covering up child sex crimes during the 1970s.

Bishop O'Kelly, who will remain the bishop of Port Pirie, north of Adelaide, assumes administrative and executive authority in the archdiocese until any future decision of the Pope, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference said in a statement.

Wilson was found guilty at Newcastle Local Court on May 22 of failing to report to police the repeated abuse of two altar boys by pedophile priest James Fletcher in the NSW Hunter region.

He is the most senior Catholic official in the world to be charged with concealing child sexual abuse.

He stood aside following the court's decision and said if it became necessary at any point for him to resign, he would do so.

Wilson, who faces a maximum two years' jail, is expected to be sentenced this month.A truck has allegedly brought down tram lines and caused damage on streets in Melbourne.

A semi-trailer carrying a large excavator allegedly ripped down tram power lines at the intersection of Nicholson Street and Alexandra Parade in Fitzroy North at 7.50pm on Sunday and also caused damage to Johnston Street and Wellington Street in Fitzroy.

Police managed to intercept the truck and the driver, a 50-year-old man, is assisting with their inquiries. Traffic diversions are in place and motorists are advised to avoid the areas.A woman has been injured while foiling an attempt to steal her van in Sydney's west.

The woman and two men were sitting in the van outside a shop at South Wentworthville about 6.30pm on Sunday when an unknown man smashed the driver's window with a brick.

The trio fled the vehicle but as the attacker attempted to drive away, the 43-year-old woman got back in through the passenger door. She fell on the footpath, injuring her shoulder and head.

The man then abandoned the vehicle. The woman was taken to Westmead Hospital in a stable condition.US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin downplayed the discord that upended the agenda for talks at a G7 ministerial meeting

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Saturday reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the Group of Seven advanced economies, downplaying the discord that upended the agenda for talks at a ministerial meeting this week.

Mnuchin's remarks came moments after Canadian, German and French ministers denounced US President Donald Trump's decision to impose punishing steel and aluminum tariffs this week, describing frustration with a perceived attack on longstanding allies.

"These are our most important allies or some of our most important allies. We've had long-standing relationships with all these countries that are very important across all different aspects," Mnuchin told reporters at the meeting's close.

"I believe there was a comment out there that this was the G6 plus one. It was not. This was the G7. We believe in the G7."

Normally a forum for consensus building among countries accounting for half the world's GDP, the meetings in the crisp mountain air at this Canadian resort north of Vancouver were electrified with discontent.

Successive central bankers and finance ministers spoke of betrayal and astonishment, describing the metals tariffs as "unjustified," "unacceptable," "dangerous" and a "gun to the head."

Amid the disagreements, there was no final joint statement, but Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced that the meeting had ended amid "unanimous concern and disappointment," which all other participants asked Mnuchin to convey back to Washington.

Mnuchin said however that trade was only of many subjects on the agenda, including crypto-currencies, taxation, Iranian nuclear sanctions and the forthcoming summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

"We have important security and foreign policy relationships and although again there were discussions on trade, there were many, many areas that not only we agree on, we were completely united on," he said.Higher gas prices are hurting the bottom line of drivers for rideshare businesses like Uber

Standing beside the Japanese sedan he uses to transport his Uber customers, Fahd lamented the higher gasoline prices that are pinching his bottom line.

"Between the beginning of the month and today, my refueling went from $39 to $50," the Moroccan-born driver said.

Fahd, who did not want his last name published, has chauffeured clients through the arteries and highways of Manhattan for Uber for the last three years during which he has seen gasoline prices double.

As oil prices have gradually increased, gasoline prices in the US have risen sharply over the last two years.

The increase is bitter pill for those who toil in the increasingly popular ridesharing business. Fuel is one of the main costs facing drivers who work for Uber, Lyft and other smaller application-based services.

Gasoline prices have jumped to $2.96 for a gallon of regular, the lowest grade, up from $2.38 a year ago. That's an increase of 37 percent from August 2016, according to data from the American Automobile Association.

"Until recently, I used to put $30 of gas every morning before taking my service," said Amrit, who averages about 12 hours a day of work as a driver for both Uber and Lyft.

"This gradually turned into $40 to $45."

- Discounted fuel -

After a two-year dive, oil prices began recovering in spring 2016 and have stayed higher amid OPEC production agreements and rising global demand.

The oil market has recently gotten a lift from the uncertainty generated by the US pullout from the Iran nuclear accord and by ongoing strife in Venezuela.

Under the systems set up by Uber and Lyft, the companies set prices for clients and pay levels for drivers that are not automatically affected by fluctuations in gasoline prices.

The rideshare companies are too new to have experienced an all-out spike in gasoline prices, such as when US gasoline prices rose above $4.00 a gallon in June 2008 shortly before the financial crisis.

But the companies have established some programs to try to cushion the blow to drivers.

For example, Uber has created a debit card that gives drivers a three percent discount when they refill their cars at ExxonMobil gas stations. The discount is only 1.5 percent at other stations.

Uber also agreed to increase fares by five to 10 percent in certain US cities, such as Los Angeles and Washington, due in part to higher gasoline prices.

And Lyft has set up a program with Shell to offer discounts of at least five cents a gallon for refilling at participating Shell stations.

But drivers say the programs don't make up for the rising prices.

"These reductions are not enough," Fahd said.North Korea will not get any sanctions relief until it has demonstrated 'irreversible' steps to denuclearisation, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Sunday.

Speaking at a security conference in Singapore ahead of a planned summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Mattis said it is vital that the international community keeps UN Security Council sanctions in place for now.

'North Korea will receive relief only when it demonstrates verifiable and irreversible steps to denuclearization,' Mattis said during public remarks at a meeting with the South Korean and Japanese defense ministers.

Mattis (center) poses with South Korea's Defence Minister Song Young-moo (left) and Japan's Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera (right) in Singapore on Saturday

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is seen at a rocket launch last fall. Mattis says Kim will have to show 'verifiable and irreversible steps to denuclearization' before getting sanction relief

'In this moment we are steadfastly committed to strengthening even further our defense cooperation as the best means to preserving the peace,' he continued.

South Korean Defence Minister Song Young-moo said that given recent developments in North Korea, 'one can be cautiously optimistic as we go forward'.

Mattis has tended to stay away from commenting publicly on the upcoming summit, which Trump has confirmed will take place in Singapore on June 12, and instead deferred to the State Department.

The key task ahead of the summit is to settle the agenda. The main stumbling block is likely to be the concept of 'denuclearization' -- both sides say they are in favor of it, but there is a yawning gap between their definitions.

Trump accepted a letter written by Kim Jong Un from North Korean envoy Kim Yong Chol (left) in the Oval Office on Friday, and said the summit in Singapore is back on for June 12

Washington wants North Korea to quickly give up all its nuclear weapons in a verifiable way in return for sanctions and economic relief.

But analysts say North Korea will be unwilling to cede its nuclear deterrent unless it is given security guarantees that the US will not try to topple the regime.

'We can anticipate at best a bumpy road to the negotiations,' Mattis said.

'As defense ministers we must maintain a strong collaborative defensive stance so we enable our diplomats to negotiate from a calm position of strength in this critical time.'Syria's Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem speaks during a press conference in Damascus, Syria, on June 2, 2018. Walid al-Moallem said on Saturday that the U.S. should withdraw from the al-Tanf base in southeastern Syria ahead of any agreement reached in the south of the country. (Xinhua/Ammar Safarjalani)

DAMASCUS, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem said on Saturday that the U.S. should withdraw from the al-Tanf base in southeastern Syria ahead of any agreement reached in the south of the country.

"Don't believe the remarks about a deal in southern Syria unless the U.S. withdraws from al-Tanf," al-Moallem said.

"The U.S. presence in Syria is illegitimate and they should withdraw from al-Tanf and any other area in Syria," he noted.

The remarks by al-Moallem came in response to the recent reports of a Russian-backed deal in southern Syria about the withdrawal of Iranian-backed forces from areas close to the Syrian border with the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

Meanwhile, the minister denied what Israel claims the involvement of Iranian forces in Syria, saying Iran has only sent military advisors upon the request of the Syrian government.

He also expressed gratitude for Iran's help against foreign-backed terrorism in Syria since the beginning of the crisis.

A day earlier, Russian Ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya said he believed an agreement has been reached on the withdrawal of Iranian forces from the border between Syria and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

"As I understand it, an agreement was reached," Nebenzya told reporters at the UN.

"I cannot answer if it is being realized, but as far as I understand, the parties involved in reaching an agreement are satisfied with what they have achieved," he added.

Israel was said to be a part of the agreement with Russia.

The situation in southern Syria has grabbed attention recently as the Syrian army is preparing for a wide-scale offensive to dislodge rebels from the southern provinces of Qunaitera and Daraa amid talks of a reconciliation agreement.

Israel has for long demanded the pullout of Iranian forces from Syria's southern borders, and launched multiple airstrikes on Syrian military positions on the pretext that Iranian fighters are running them.

The Syrian government hopes to restore military presence in Daraa and Qunaitera after the evacuation of rebels, in order to control all border points between Daraa and Jordan as well as areas between Quanitera and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, while activating the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement between Syria and Israel.

[ Editor:  ]Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has lashed out at his critics in the past, often using less-than-parliamentary language

President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday told a United Nations rights expert to "go to hell" over criticism of the Philippine leader for threatening the country's top judge.

Duterte's latest profanity-laced diatribe came after Diego Garcia-Sayan, the UN special rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, said the president's statements against former chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno were a "vicious attack" on the judiciary.

Sereno's colleagues voted to remove her from office last month, shortly after Duterte openly called her his "enemy" and demanded her swift ouster.

"Tell him (Garcia-Sayan) not to interfere with the affairs of my country. He can go to hell," Duterte told reporters in Manila, insisting he had nothing to do with Sereno's dismissal.

"He is not a special person and I do not recognise his rapporteur title."

Duterte, 73, has lashed out in the past -- often using less-than-parliamentary language -- at critics of the deadly drug war he launched soon after coming to power in 2016.

Several of his opponents have since been ousted, punished or threatened.

Police say they have killed 4,279 drug suspects in the anti-narcotics campaign but rights groups believe the actual number is three times higher.

Sereno was one of the few remaining high-profile critics of the crackdown at the time of her ouster.

The UN's Garcia-Sayan said Friday that Duterte's public threats against Sereno appeared to have had a "chilling effect" on her colleagues in the judiciary.

"The use of such derogatory language... sends a clear message to all judges of the Philippines: in the so-called 'war on drugs', you're either with me or against me," Garcia-Sayan said.The US and China have been at loggerheads over trade and industrial practices for months

US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Sunday trade talks have been "friendly and frank" as the US and China continued with a second day of negotiations in Beijing aimed at deescalating tensions between the two sides.

The world's two largest economies have been at loggerheads over trade and industrial practices for months with the talks under way in the Chinese capital the third formal round of negotiations.

The discussions are intended to ease tensions after Washington said it would follow through with tariffs on Chinese imports despite a truce reached between the two sides in the US last month.

"Our meetings so far have been friendly and frank, and covered some useful topics about specific export items," Ross told the Chinese trade team led by Vice Premier Liu He, President Xi Jinping's right hand-man on economic issues.

Liu offered the US team a "special welcome" to Beijing for the talks.

The visit comes as fears of an all-out global trade war intensified after the European Union, Canada and Mexico drew up retaliatory measures to Washington's stinging steel and aluminium tariffs that came into effect on Friday.

On Saturday, Washington's main allies delivered a unified message of shock and dismay at a Group of Seven ministerial meeting, urging President Donald Trump to rescind the punishing metal tariffs.

The planned US sanctions on Beijing include restrictions on Chinese investment, export controls and 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese tech goods.

China has threatened to hit back with tit-for-tat tariffs on tens of billions of dollars in US goods.

But it has also taken conciliatory measures to address some of the Trump administration's concerns and insisted that it hopes to avoid a damaging trade war.

Ross and the large American delegation had dinner Saturday evening with their Chinese hosts.

"It has been a great pleasure to spend yesterday with you and we are especially grateful for last night's dinner," Ross said as he met with Liu at the Diaoyutai state guesthouse.

Washington's positions in the trade talks with Beijing have shifted as Trump's team of hardliners and more mainstream advisors compete to push their views.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who announced the tariff truce with China, said at the G7 summit in Canada that the US was pushing for "structural changes" to the Chinese economy.

"If there are structural changes that allow our companies to compete fairly, by definition that will deal with the trade deficit alone," Mnuchin said Saturday, according to Bloomberg News.Members of the Jordanian gendarmerie detain a protester during a demonstration outside the Prime Minister's office in the capital Amman late on June 2, 2018

Jordan's senate met Sunday for a special session after another night of protests across the country against IMF-backed austerity measures including a draft income tax law and price hikes.

Some 3,000 people faced down a heavy security presence to gather near the prime minister's office in Amman until the early hours of Sunday morning, waving Jordanian flags and signs reading "we will not kneel".

Protests have gripped the country since Wednesday, when hundreds responding to a call by trade unions, flooded the streets of Amman and other cities to demand the fall of the government.

Last month, the government proposed a new income tax law, yet to be approved by parliament, aimed at raising taxes on employees by at least five percent and on companies by between 20 and 40 percent.

The measures are the latest in a series of economic reforms since Amman secured a $723-million three-year credit line from the International Monetary Fund in 2016.

The senate convened hours after protests ended Sunday to discuss "ways of dealing with draft law... in the interest of all parties", Jordan's official Petra news agency said.

Senate speaker Faisal al-Fayez there was a need for "comprehensive national dialogue" on the law, echoing an earlier call by King Abdullah II.

Fayez said the government should "balance economic challenges and pressures with the interests of different social sectors", but cautioned against violence and called on authorities to bring "troublemakers" to justice.

Members of the Jordanian gendarmerie and security forces stand on alert as protesters shout slogans and raise a national flag during a demonstration outside the Prime Minister's office in the capital Amman late on June 2, 2018

Since January, Jordan -- which suffers from high unemployment and has few natural resources -- has seen repeated price rises including on staples such as bread, as well as extra taxes on basic goods.

The price of fuel has risen on five occasions since the beginning of the year, while electricity bills have shot up 55 percent since February.

The IMF-backed measures have sparked some of the biggest economic protests in five years.

Overnight, protesters outside Prime Minister Hani Mulki's office shouted slogans including "the ones raising prices want to burn the country" and "this Jordan is our Jordan, Mulki should leave".

- 'Snowball' -

Demonstrators tussled with security forces and some fainted, but others smoked water pipes and one sat on the pavement and played the Arabian lute, or oud.

In another part of the city, security forces used tear gas to prevent hundreds of demonstrators from joining the rally near Mulki's office, Jordanian news websites reported.

"Women have started looking in rubbish bins to find food for their children, and every day we're hit by price hikes and new taxes," said one protester.

Bank employee Mohammad Shalabiya, 28, said demonstrators wanted "to tell the government that the citizen's income isn't suitable for this kind of law and that we have a right to demonstrate".

Jordanian protesters shout slogans and raise a national flag during a demonstration outside the Prime Minister's office in the capital Amman late on June 2, 2018

Lina Rsheidat, 35, a housewife with a red keffiyeh scarf around her neck, said the proposed law was "unjust" and would "harm the Jordanian people".

According to official estimates, 18.5 percent of the population is unemployed, while 20 percent are on the brink of poverty.

The Economist Intelligence Unit earlier this year ranked Jordan's capital as one of the most expensive in the Arab world.

"The popular movement... has surprised the government," Adel Mahmoud, a Jordanian political analyst, told AFP.

Discontent could "snowball... triggering a domestic crisis", he said, adding that he expected protests to continue until demands are met.

- Struggling economy -

Jordan, a key US ally, has largely avoided the unrest witnessed by other countries in the region since the Arab Spring revolts broke out in 2011, although protests did flare late that year after the government cut fuel subsidies.

But the country has long played host to refugees from neighbouring Iraq, and according to government figures, more than one million people have fled to Jordan from Syria's devastating seven-year war, further straining its struggling economy.

Amman has repeatedly urged international donors to provide extra funds to help it host them.

Jordanian protesters and security personnel tend to an unconscious man during a demonstration outside the Prime Minister's office in the capital Amman late on June 2, 2018

On Saturday Mulki met with trade union representatives who demanded the income tax law be revoked, but they failed to reach an agreement.

The head of Jordan's federation of unions, Ali Obus, demanded the state "maintain its independence and not bow to IMF demands".

King Abdullah II on Saturday called on parliament to lead a "comprehensive and reasonable national dialogue" on the new tax law.

"It would not be fair that the citizen alone bears the burden of financial reforms," he told officials.

The IMF says the loan aims at slashing Jordan's public debt from about 94 percent of GDP to 77 percent by 2021, through "reforms to bolster economic growth and gradual fiscal consolidation", according to its website.Police fired tear gas and beat demonstrators with batons, according to an AFP reporter

The UN has called for calm in Mali after dozens of people were hurt during banned opposition protests in Bamako, sparking calls for the prime minister to resign two months ahead of a presidential election.

The opposition said some 30 people were hospitalised -- including prominent opposition figure Etienne Fabaka Sissoko who was left "in a coma" -- after security forces fired "live ammunition" at protesters on Saturday.

The government rejected the claims outright.

"It is absolutely false to say that shots were fired using live ammunition," a source close to the security ministry told AFP.

Earlier Sunday, the ministry said the security forces were bound by three words -- "professionalism, courtesy and firmness" and that the police had acted to maintain public order.

It denounced the protestors for having injured a policeman in the head.

A "transparency" rally outside the party headquarters of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita attracted several hundred people.

Police fired tear gas and beat demonstrators with batons, according to an AFP reporter at the scene. Clashes also took place in other locations.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who visited Mali last week, called late Saturday for "calm and restraint by all parties".

"(He) calls on the Malian government to ensure the protection of fundamental human rights and freedom of expression to peaceful demonstrations, including in the context of the ongoing state of emergency," a UN statement said.

Mali is one of the so-called "G5 Sahel" states -- along with Burkina Faso, Chad, Mauritania and Niger -- which have launched joint operations against jihadist groups.

Most protests are banned as the nation has lived under a near-constant state of emergency since an attack on a hotel in Bamako in November 2015 left 20 people dead.

- Terrorise the opposition -

A man lies on a stretcher after a police crackdown on a banned demonstration in Bamako

"In a dozen places, unarmed protesters were attacked with tear gas and clubs," the office of opposition presidential candidate Soumaila Cisse said in a statement.

"The headquarters of the ADP (Alliance for Democracy and Progress) was attacked by police special forces, who threw grenades. The prime minister's security services fired live ammunition at protesters gathered" in front of the building, the statement charged.

"Three opposition leaders were violently beaten on the head with clubs and batons," it added.

"The intention of the government was clear: to terrorise the opposition and all democratic forces."

The statement also called for "the resignation of the prime minister".

The demonstrations come ahead of July 29 elections in which Mali President Keita, 73, will face more than a dozen challengers.

The opposition has called for equal access to public radio and television for campaigning.

"The UN secretary-general regrets the government-imposed ban on the demonstrations by opposition parties," the UN said.

"(He) urges political actors and the civil society to favour dialogue in order to maintain an environment conducive to the holding of credible and transparent elections."

Opposition leaders have called for new demonstrations next Friday.The US and China have been at loggerheads over trade and industrial practices for months

China warned the US that any deals reached during ongoing trade talks would be void if Washington went ahead with imposing tariffs on Chinese goods, as the latest round of negotiations ended on Sunday in Beijing.

The third round of trade talks between the world's two largest economies appeared to fall short of bridging the gap between Beijing and Washington, which are at loggerheads over Chinese trade and industrial policy practices that US President Donald Trump says kill American jobs.

"If the US introduces trade sanctions including tariff increases, all economic and trade achievements negotiated by the two parties so far will be void," said a Chinese government statement issued by the official Xinhua news agency.

The discussions in Beijing, led by US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, were intended to ease tensions after Washington said Tuesday it would follow through with tariffs on Chinese imports despite a truce reached between the two sides last month.

The consensus reached in Washington called on China to increase agricultural and energy imports from the US. Beijing said "positive and concrete progress" was made on those issues with details left for "both sides to finalise".

The visit from the large US delegation, with members from several executive branch agencies, came as fears of an all-out global trade war intensified after the European Union, Canada and Mexico drew up retaliatory measures to Washington's stinging steel and aluminium tariffs that went into effect on Friday.

On Saturday, Washington's main allies delivered a unified message of shock and dismay at a Group of Seven ministerial meeting, urging President Trump to rescind the punishing metal tariffs.

- Trade war fears -

The planned US trade sanctions on Beijing include restrictions on Chinese investment, export controls and 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion in tech goods.

The White House has said it would announce a final list of Chinese imports covered by the US tariffs on June 15, with the other measures to follow later this month.

Beijing warned all the commitments it had made so far were premised on "not fighting a trade war". China has also threatened to hit back with tit-for-tat tariffs on tens of billions of dollars in US goods.

But even as Beijing has maintained it will not back down, it has announced conciliatory measures like lowering tariffs on auto and consumer good imports to address some of the Trump Administration's concerns.

"Our meetings so far have been friendly and frank, and covered some useful topics about specific export items," Ross told the Chinese trade team led by Liu, President Xi Jinping's right hand-man on economic issues, on Sunday morning.

Ross and the large American delegation had dinner Saturday evening with their Chinese hosts.

"It has been a great pleasure to spend yesterday with you and we are especially grateful for last night's dinner," Ross said as he met with Liu at the Diaoyutai state guesthouse.

Washington's negotiating stance in the trade talks with Beijing has shifted as Trump's team of hardliners and more mainstream advisors compete to push their views.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who announced the tariff truce with China, said at the G7 summit in Canada that the US was pushing for "structural changes" to the Chinese economy.

"This isn't just about buying more goods. This is about structural changes," Mnuchin said Saturday.

"There are structural changes that allow our companies to compete fairly. By definition that will deal with the trade deficit," he added.This file photo taken on February 19, 2018, shows French citizen Melina Boughedir carrying her son as she arrives to court in the Iraqi capital Baghdad where on June 3, 2018 she was sentenced to life in jail for membership of the Islamic State group

An Iraqi court on Sunday sentenced a French woman to life in jail for membership of the Islamic State jihadist group, an AFP reporter at the courthouse said.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country and was set to be deported back to France, but another court ordered her re-trial under Iraq's anti-terrorist law.

The 27-year-old was found guilty on Sunday of belonging to IS.

"I am innocent," Boughedir told the judge in French.

"My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said.

On Thursday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told French news channel LCI that Boughedir was a "Daesh (IS) terrorist who fought against Iraq" and said she should be tried in Iraq.

This prompted her French lawyers to send a letter of protest to Le Drian, seen by AFP, in which they denounced "unacceptable pressure on the Iraqi judicial system" and "interference".

On Saturday, one of her lawyers, who travelled to Baghdad for the trial, William Bourdon, told AFP that Boughedir's family and her defence team want her to return to France and face a court there.

Boughedir was arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul, the capital of IS's self-declared "caliphate".

Her husband is believed to have been killed during a vast operation by US-led coalition-backed Iraqi forces to seize the country's second city back from jihadist control.

In April, an Iraqi court sentenced another French women, Djamila Boutoutaou, to life in prison for belonging to IS, despite her pleas that she too had been tricked by her husband.

Dozens of French citizens suspected of having joined IS ranks are believed to be in detention in Iraq and neighbouring Syria, including several minors.Child marriages and a shortage of female teachers are among the reasons young Afghan girls are not attending school

Nearly half of Afghanistan's children are not attending school because of worsening security, poverty and sex discrimination, according to a new UN report Sunday.

The number of children deprived of schooling is at its highest rate since 2002 -- the year after the US-led ouster of the repressive Taliban regime, which had banned girls from the classroom.

Girls remain more likely to miss out on a formal education, making up 60 percent of the 3.7 million children aged between seven and 17 not at school.

The figure rose as high as 85 percent in some of the worst-affected provinces, reflecting pervasive gender-based discrimination in parts of the deeply conservative Muslim country.

Child marriages and a shortage of female teachers were additional factors keeping girls away from the classroom.

The report by United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) also estimated that up to 300,000 children are at risk of dropping out before the end of the year.

Those children most at risk often live in rural areas and face displacement, insecurity and a lack of schooling facilities.

"Business as usual is not an option for Afghanistan if we are to fulfil the right to education for every child," UNICEF's Afghanistan representative Adele Khodr said.

"When children are not in school, they are at an increased danger of abuse, exploitation and recruitment."

While the numbers are worrying, the study also noted some progress.

It said school dropout rates are low in comparison to neighbouring countries such as Pakistan and Nepal, with some 85 per cent of Afghan boys and girls who start primary school going on to complete the last grade.

"Now is the time for a renewed commitment to provide girls and boys with the relevant learning opportunities they need to progress in life and to play a positive role in society," Khodr said.A resident inspects a burnt out house in Kizara village attacked by bandits who killed 48 people while early May saw dozens abducted in just two days on a road near the Zamfara state border

A spate of kidnappings for ransom in the Birnin Gwari district of northern Nigeria's Kaduna state has left residents afraid to even leave their homes.

"When a person travels, his family, friends and neighbours gather to pray for his safety because of the kidnappers," said local resident Kabiru Mohammed.

"It's celebrations once he returns because kidnapping on the highway has become the norm. It's a nightmare that should only exist in fairytales," he told AFP by telephone.

Mohammed and his neighbours have good reason to be anxious.

Kidnappings have reached unprecedented levels in the last two months. In early May, about 100 people were abducted in just two days on a road near the border with Zamfara state.

Haruna Musa, who also lives in Birnin Gwari, said the situation has forced people in at least six villages in the area to abandon their homes.

Last week, an armed gang raided the village of Maganda and kidnapped three wives of a businessman. Many locals now don't sleep at night. Instead, they patrol their communities.

"I also join in the night patrols to encourage others," said Mustapha Idris, the chief imam of Maganda.

But the creation of civilian militia has itself had deadly consequences. On May 6, at least 71 people were killed in Gwaska village during clashes with armed bandits.

- Grisly warnings -

Birnin Gwari is not alone in being affected. In Zamfara, there have been similar problems from kidnapping and cattle rustling gangs.

"The mere sound of a motorcycle engine outside your house at night robs you of sleep because it could be a sign that the dreaded bandits have come," said Nuhu Dansadau.

Dansadau said his village, also called Dansadau, and others nearby have been repeatedly raided.

Aliyu Kawaye, who lives in the town of Anka, said the abductors seize cash and force families to sell their farm produce to raise the ransom payment.

According to the state government, more than 10,000 cattle have been stolen in the last seven years.

"What is more worrisome is the deliberate attack on farmers who dare to go to their farms," said Dansadau.

"The bandits amputate their hands from the wrists, put the severed palms in the farmers' pockets and send them back to the village as a warning to others."

- Lucrative venture -

The kidnapping gangs and cattle thieves, who roam on motorcycles on the hunt for victims, are known to operate in northern Kaduna and Zamfara.

Both regions have been largely spared by the Boko Haram insurgency, another of Nigeria's pressing security problems along with a land conflict between nomads and farmers.

The kidnappers' heavily guarded camps dot the Rugu forest, which straddles Kaduna, Zamfara and the northern states of Kano, Sokoto, Kebbi and Niger.

Abductees whose families don't pay ransoms are killed and their bodies dumped, according to security sources.

Kidnapping for ransom used to be a phenomenon isolated to oil-rich southern Nigeria. But it has spread further north and become lucrative because of economic hardship.

A livestock yard in Kaduna, northwest Nigeria, where some herders who have lost cattle in unrest with farmers over grazing and watering rights have taken to kidnapping for ransom amid growing economic hardship

It has also attracted young ethnic Fulani herders who have lost their herds in unrest with farmers over grazing and watering rights.

Young Fulani herders now make up most of the marauding gangs in northern Nigeria and other West African countries, said Saleh Bayeri, of the Gan Allah Fulani Development Association.

- Inadequate security -

The Kaduna state government formed a joint military and police taskforce to combat kidnapping and cattle rustling in Birnin Gwari but has had little success.

In March, bandits likely armed with illegal weapons smuggled in from Mali and Libya, killed 11 troops at a camp in the area, prompting the military to withdraw.

In April, the Nigerian Air Force deployed special forces to Zamfara to fight the gangs but locals said more were needed.

"The bandits by far outnumber the troops and are better armed," said Kawaye.

Zamfara governor Abdulaziz Yari has said he does not have adequate resources to police a state which at 40,000 square kilometres (15,400 square miles) is about the same size as Switzerland.

There are only 2,000 regular police officers, 400 riot police, 315 soldiers and fewer than 100 air force personnel for a population of more than four million, he said in February.

A man herds his cattle by a sign welcoming visitors to Zamfara, a northern mainly rural state which has introduced strict Islamic Sharia law and where kidnapping and cattle theft is rife

In response to the killings, he has ordered troops to shoot on sight anyone seen with a gun in affected areas. But that and a number of amnesty offers have had little effect.

"The best way to end this menace is for the government to send in more troops and weapons to fight these criminals as well as intensify security along our borders," said Dansadau.Two soldiers have died and seven civilians have been injured in the latest Kashmir violence

India and Pakistan exchanged fire across the Kashmir border on Sunday, officials said, killing two guards and ending a days-old agreement to honour a ceasefire in the disputed region.

Seven civilians were also injured at Aknoor, near the contested territory's border with Pakistan, in a barrage that claimed the lives of two Indian border officers.

India's Border Security Force said its troops returned fire after Pakistani border rangers in Sialkot fired into Kashmir without provocation in the early hours of Sunday.

"The injured soldiers were immediately evacuated to a military hospital where they later succumbed (to their injuries)," border force spokesman Manoj Yadav told AFP from Jammu, the winter capital of the restive Himalayan region.

Pakistan authorities did not immediately comment on India's allegations or whether any damage was sustained on their side of the border.

The salvo of gun and mortar fire came just four days after Pakistan and India promised to end ceasefire violations in Kashmir.

The two sides had pledged to respect the conditions laid out in a 2003 ceasefire "in letter and spirit" following some of the highest levels of violence in Kashmir since the pact was signed.

Both sides blame each other for violating the 15-year ceasefire.

Dozens have been killed in border clashes in recent months along the border that divides the territory into zones of Indian and Pakistani control, leaving residents terrified.

The renewed commitment to the ceasefire had encouraged thousands of civilians to return to their homes after weeks of shelling.

Kashmir has been divided since the end of British colonial rule in 1947 and both New Delhi and Islamabad claim the former Himalayan kingdom in full.

India has about 500,000 soldiers in the part of Kashmir it controls, where armed groups are fighting for independence or a merger with Pakistan.

The flare-up along the border comes amid a rise in street riots and militant violence in the Kashmir valley, which witnesses near-daily demonstrations against Indian rule.

New Delhi accuses Pakistan of fuelling an insurgency that has left tens of thousands of civilians dead. Islamabad denies this, saying it only provides diplomatic support to Kashmiris' right to self-determination.An oil rig drilling in northwest Kenya where President Uhuru Kenyatta flagged off the first trucks carrying oil for export to the port of Mombasa, some 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) away in the hope of spurring economic development

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta on Sunday official launched a pilot project to truck oil for export from its remote northwest to the port of Mombasa in an effort to boost the economy.

"This... marks the beginning of a long and fruitful journey," Kenyatta said as he flagged off a convoy of oil laden trucks.

"My government will therefore focus on the development of our oil and gas sectors for the betterment of the economy and people," he added.

Initial plans are for trucks to carry some 2,000 barrels of oil per day from wells near Lokichar in the far north, all the way to Mombasa, about 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) away.

Critics say large parts of the route may not be passable given damage to the road and bridges caused during the rainy season.

Arnold Nyaga, researcher at the Kenya Civil Society Platform on Oil and Gas, said the project was "a distraction from what really matters" for Kenya's development.

"I think the idea behind this ceremony is for Kenya to show that they are active when it comes to oil, and that they want to be a leader in East Africa," he said.

The pilot programme, planned to run for two years, was supposed to begin in June 2017 but was held up by differences over sharing oil royalties.

President Kenyatta recently announced that the central government would take 75 percent of the proceeds, with 20 percent going to Turkana province and five percent for local communities.

Officials say the object is to see how the oil fields -- discovered in 2012 -- respond to increased extraction, with actual exports a long way off.

The government hopes that will happen with the construction of a pipeline capable of carrying 100,000 barrels per day to the coast but the earliest completion date is 2021.The information was announced at a workshop on assessing the progress of the Aus4Reform programme held on June 1 by the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM) and the Australian Embassy in Vietnam.

One year after the launch of the Aus4Reform, the programme has made positive contributions to Vietnams efforts to improve its business environment and competitiveness, said CIEM Director Nguyen DinhCung. Thousands of unreasonable business conditions managed by ministries were reviewed and abolished, while there was also a simplification of the specialised inspection of import-export goods, Cung added.

Sharing Cungs view, Dr Le Dang Doang, former director of CIEM said that after the first year of implementation of Aus4Reform, Vietnams business environment has been enhanced, while the start-up spirit has been promoted among the youth.

However, experts noted that Vietnam still has much work to do to encourage further economic growth as the Vietnamese business environment is seen as being inferior to other countries in the region and administrative reforms need to be stepped up.

Policy advisor of the Aus4Reform Ray Mallon said that the long-term goal in Vietnam is to improve labour productivity through a sustainable and inclusive growth model and Aus4Reform will assist Vietnam in reaching this goal through the provision of a AUD6.5 million fund.Qatar called for engagement and dialogue with Iran

Qatar will not be dragged into any conflict with Iran, a senior Qatari official said Sunday.

Defence minister Khalid bin Mohammad al-Attiyah told an international security conference in Singapore that even though the two nations had "a lot of differences", Doha would not "fuel a war" in the region.

"Is it wise to call the US and Israel to go and fight Iran? Iran is next door," he said.

"If any third party is trying to push the region or some country in the region to start a war with Iran, this will be very dangerous," he said.

His comments sparked speculation that he could have been referring to Saudi Arabia, which has led a year-long blockade against Qatar, accusing the emirate of financing terrorist groups and having close ties with Tehran.

Qatar rejects the charges and says the blockading countries -- which also include the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt -- are seeking regime change in Doha.

Responding to a question on whether Qatar's air bases could be used to launch airstrikes against Iran, al-Attiyah said the country was "not a fan of war", and called instead for engagement and dialogue.

"We should call Iran, put all the files on the table, and discuss to bring peace, (rather) than war," he told the Shangri-La Dialogue.

Qatar hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US base in the region which is home to thousands of US personnel and a forward command centre.

The minister also called for the restoration of a 2015 agreement between world powers and Iran that lifted sanctions from Tehran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear programme.

US President Donald Trump last month withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal and ordered the reimposition of sanctions suspended under the accord.North Korea and Syria have maintained warm ties for decades and reportedly shared a military relationship for some years

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said he plans to visit North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, Pyongyang's state media reported Sunday, potentially becoming the first head of state to meet Kim inside the isolated country.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet... Kim Jong Un," Assad said, the North's state-run KCNA news agency reported, using the abbreviated version of the country's official name.

The announcement came as anticipation mounts for a historic nuclear summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump in Singapore on June 12, following a whirlwind round of diplomacy.

"The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political calibre and wise leadership of... Kim Jong Un," KCNA cited Assad as saying during a meeting with North Korean Ambassador Mun Jong Nam on Wednesday.

The Syrian president's office refused to comment on the report when contacted by AFP.

Pyongyang and Damascus have maintained warm ties for decades and reportedly shared a military relationship for some years, including during the ongoing Syrian civil war.

Suspicions over chemical weapons trade between Pyongyang and Damascus have been raised in the past by the UN and South Korea.

There were also widespread reports that North Korea helped Syria build a nuclear plant that was destroyed by Israeli bombing in 2007.

Both regimes have been the target of international isolation -- Pyongyang over its banned nuclear programme and Damascus for atrocities committed during the seven-year civil war.

Since coming to power in 2011, Kim has not met another head of state in North Korea. He only made his first overseas trip as leader this year, travelling to China to meet President Xi Jinping, an ally of the reclusive regime.

burs-amu/gleFormer New York mayorRudy Giuliani, seen here in a file photo taken on July 18, 2018, is now a top lawyer for President Donald Trump, who is under scrutiny in a federal probe of Russia election meddling

A lawyer for Donald Trump said Sunday that the president "probably" had the power to pardon himself from any charges stemming from the probe into Russian meddling, while adding that the chances were dimming of the president agreeing to an interview with the special counsel leading the inquiry.

Former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, a recent addition to the Trump legal team, told ABC's "This Week" that a president "probably does" have the power to pardon himself, even while he insisted that Trump had no intention of doing so.

"I think the political ramifications of that would be tough," Giuliani added. "Pardoning other people is one thing. Pardoning yourself is another."

But the very notion sparked sharp dissent, including from a fellow Republican and sometime Trump adviser, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie.

"Listen, there's no way that'll happen," Christie told ABC.

"The reason it won't is because then it becomes a political problem ... If the president were to pardon himself, he'll get impeached."

House Republican Majority leader Kevin McCarthy also told CNN that no president should pardon himself.

And Preet Bharara, who like Giuliani is a former New York prosecutor, agreed.

Bharara, who was appointed by former president Barack Obama, told CNN that for a president to pardon himself would be "outrageous."

It would amount, he added, to "almost self-executing impeachment."

- Raised eyebrows -

The talk of self-pardoning has raised eyebrows amid the roiling debate over the Russia meddling inquiry and the president's cooperation -- or lack of it. Trump has issued a series of ever-sharper tweets attacking the Mueller probe as politically motivated and insisting there was "no collusion" between his campaign team and Russia.

The debate over a self-pardon has been further fueled as Trump has issued -- or hinted at -- a series of pardons to political allies, and done so in a way Democrats say is meant to signal his present and former aides that they need not fear resisting the Mueller probe.

Meantime, Giuliani has said before that the president's lawyers oppose Trump sitting down for an interview with Mueller. The president's lawyers fear an interview could lead to Trump inadvertently, and they say innocently, committing perjury.

While saying on Sunday that Trump wanted to sit down with Mueller, Giuliani added, "It's beginning to get resolved in favor of not doing it."

His comment suggested that Trump's lawyers were beginning to persuade the president of the dangers involved.

Asked about a January memo from Trump's legal team to Mueller -- which conceded, after multiple White House denials, that the president himself had dictated a misleading letter last July about a meeting involving his son Donald and a Russian lawyer -- Giuliani said, "That is why you don't let the president testify. Our recollection keeps changing" and sometimes needs to be corrected.

That memo, first reported by the New York Times, also asserted that a president has full power over Justice Department investigations and therefore cannot be charged with obstruction of justice.

Giuliani was asked on ABC whether a president accused of a crime as serious as murder or bribery could terminate the investigation.

"I would not go that far," he said.Until now, women have faced uncertainty about whether to add chemo to hormone therapy after a diagnosis with hormone-receptor positive, HER-2 negative breast cancer

Two major studies released Sunday show that many people with breast and lung cancers may forgo chemotherapy and still live longer, signaling a waning need for what was long seen as the standard of cancer care.

The findings were released at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) meeting in Chicago, the world's largest annual cancer conference.

The first study, described as the largest breast cancer treatment trial to date, found that the majority of women with a common form of breast cancer may be able to skip chemotherapy and its toxic, and often debilitating, side effects after surgery depending on their score on a genetic test.

As many as 65,000 women in the United States alone could be affected by the findings.

Until now, women have faced considerable uncertainty about whether to add chemo to hormone therapy after a diagnosis with hormone-receptor positive, HER-2 negative breast cancer when found at an early stage, before it has spread to the lymph nodes.

"With results of this groundbreaking study, we now can safely avoid chemotherapy in about 70 percent of patients who are diagnosed with the most common form of breast cancer," said co-author Kathy Albain, an oncologist at Loyola Medicine in a Chicago suburb.

A 21-gene test called Oncotype DX, available since 2004, has helped guide some decisions on proper care after surgery.

A high recurrence score, above 25, means chemo is advised to ward off a recurrence, while a low score, below 10, means it is not.

The current study focused on those whose scores were in the middle range, from 11 to 25.

More than 10,000 women, aged 18 to 75, were randomly assigned to receive chemotherapy followed by hormone therapy, or hormone therapy alone.

Researchers studied their outcomes, including whether or not cancer recurred, and their overall survival.

- 'No significant difference' -

"For the entire study population with gene test scores between 11 and 25 -- and especially among women aged 50 to 75 -- there was no significant difference between the chemotherapy and no chemotherapy groups," said the findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

The results show that all women over 50 with a recurrence score of 0 to 25 can be spared chemotherapy and its toxic side effects.

For women under 50 with a score of 0 to 15, chemo can be skipped.

However, among younger women with scores 16 to 25, outcomes were slightly better in the chemotherapy group, so in those cases doctors may urge patients to consider a chemo regimen.

The results "should have a huge impact on doctors and patients," Albain said.

"We are de-escalating toxic therapy."

According to first author Joseph Sparano of Montefiore Medical Center in New York, "any woman with early-stage breast cancer 75 or younger should have the test and discuss the results" with her doctor.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide, causing some 1.7 million new cases annually and over half a million deaths.

The study's primary funding came from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH).

- Lung cancer -

The second study tested a form of immunotherapy against chemo, in the most common lung cancer worldwide, known as non-small-cell lung cancer.

It found that Merck pharmaceutical's drug Keytruda (pembrolizumab) -- which famously helped former US president Jimmy Carter stave off advanced melanoma that had spread to his brain -- helped lung cancer patients live four to eight months longer than chemo.

More than 1,200 people enrolled in the study, the largest clinical trial to date of pembrolizumab as a stand-alone therapy for lung cancer. The drug was approved in 2014 for melanoma and in 2015 for lung cancer.

"These are responses that are unlike anything we have seen in the past for non-small-cell lung cancer," said lead author Gilberto Lopes, a medical oncologist at the University of Miami Health Center.

Still, he acknowledged that most patients with this form of advanced cancer will die within months, and "we need to do a lot more work."

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, taking 1.7 million lives per year.

John Heymach, a professor at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center who was not involved in the Merck-funded study, described it as a "true milestone" and "a real important advance for patients."

"We are now leaving an era where the only choice for non-small-cell lung cancer patients was to start with chemotherapy," he told reporters at the ASCO conference.

"Now, the vast majority of patients can potentially receive benefits from immunotherapy instead," he added.

"Immunotherapy is here to stay for the vast majority of non-small-cell lung cancer patients as a first-line treatment."The West Bank Israeli settlement of Maale Adumim

Israel's Supreme Court on Sunday met in an expanded panel of nine justices to consider striking down a law on settlements so contentious that the attorney general refuses to defend it.

The law, allowing expropriation of private Palestinian land for Jewish settlers, triggered an outpouring of condemnation from around the world when it was passed by the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, in February last year.

Israeli and Palestinian rights groups, on behalf of 17 Palestinian villages, asked the court to declare the act unconstitutional and in August it issued a restraining order against implementation, pending its ruling.

On Sunday, attorney Harel Arnon, argued in defence of the legislation in place of attorney-general Avichai Mandelblit, who has warned the government the law could be unconstitutional and risked exposing Israel to international prosecution for war crimes.

Israeli public radio quoted him as saying in court that to disqualify legislation passed by parliament would be "abetting a coup against this administration."

It would be, he added, "the dismemberment of the sovereignty of the Knesset".

The act legalises dozens of wildcat outposts and thousands of settler homes in the occupied West Bank.

Its opponents see it as promoting at least partial annexation of the territory, a key demand for parts of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government.

The petition against the act, seen by AFP, argues that by giving preference to Jewish settlers over the rights of Palestinian landowners it breaches an international convention on Apartheid.

"The clear, declared purpose of the law, which seeks to privilege the interests of one group on an ethnic basis and leads to the dispossession of the Palestinians, leaves no doubt that this law involves crimes under the convention," it says.

It was not known on Sunday when the court would deliver its ruling.

International law considers all settlements to be illegal, but Israel distinguishes between those it sanctions and those it does not, dubbed outposts.

The new law allows Israel to legally seize Palestinian private land on which Israelis built outposts.

Palestinian landowners whose property was taken for settlers would be compensated with cash or given alternative plots.A file picture taken on March 30, 2017 shows the Tunisian coastguard on patrol of the area off the northern town of Bizerte

More than 50 migrants drowned in the Mediterranean on Sunday, the majority off the coasts of Tunisia and Turkey, while Italy marked a sea change in its policy.

Tunisian authorities said 48 bodies were recovered off the country's southern coast, close to the city of Sfax, while 68 people were rescued.

"The boat had a maximum capacity of 75 to 90 people, but there were more than 180 of us," said Wael Ferjani, a Tunisian survivor from the southern region of Gabes.

While water leaked into the boat, some passengers jumped into the sea and drowned, he told AFP.

The latest death toll was published around 7:00 pm (1800 GMT), after the search and rescue operation had ended for the day.

The hunt for survivors would continue on Monday morning, Mohammed Salah Sagaama from Sfax's naval base told AFP.

Map of Tunisia locating the city of Sfax and Kerkennah island, close to where the bodies of many migrants were recovered on Sunday

Tunisians and migrants regularly try to cross the Mediterranean to seek a better future in Europe, with 120 mainly Tunisians rescued by their navy in March after trying to reach Italy.

In October, a collision between a migrant boat and a Tunisian military ship left at least 44 dead, in what Prime Minister Youssef Chahed called a "national disaster".

The latest shipwreck is the most deadly in the Mediterranean since February 2 when 90 people drowned off the coast of Libya, according to the IOM.

- Syrian children drowned -

Across the Mediterranean, nine Syrians including seven children drowned when their vessel sank off the coast of Turkey.

The group were travelling in a speedboat intending to head illegally to Europe, when the boat hit trouble off the coast of the southern Antalya province, state media reports said.

The oldest child to drown was 14 and the youngest just three, according to the Anadolu news agency.

Six adults were reportedly rescued including a couple who lost five of their children in the disaster.

Turkey was the main sea route for migrants to Europe in 2015, when more than a million people crossed to Greece.

That year 3,771 people were recorded as dead or missing in the Mediterranean by the United Nations refugee agency.

An AFPTV video screen grab shows the Habib Bourguiba University Hospital in Sfax, Tunisia, where victims of a migrant shipwreck were taken on June 3, 2018

So far this year, 32,601 migrants and refugees have survived the sea crossing and 649 have been recorded as dead or missing.

A deal struck with the EU in 2016 has drastically reduced the amount of people trying to make the sea crossing, although observers say the numbers have been ticking up again in recent months.

- Italy marks policy shift -

The focal point for Mediterranean migration in recent years has been Italy, where more than 700,000 migrants have arrived since 2013.

On Sunday the country's new hardline interior minister, Matteo Salvini, headed to Sicily, one of the main landing points for those rescued at sea, to push his anti-immigration agenda.

His predecessor signed a controversial deal with authorities and militias in Libya -- the key departure point on the route to Italy -- which has driven down overall arrival numbers by 75 percent since last summer.

But Salvini has pledged to go further still, vowing to cut the number of arrivals and speed up deportations.

"The good times for illegals is over -- get ready to pack your bags," he said Saturday at a rally in Italy's north.

The latest arrivals, some 158 people, were rescued by a humanitarian boat and reached southern Sicily on Friday.

Demonstrators in Pozzallo, Sicily, protest the visit of Italy's new hardline interior minister Matteo Salvini on June 3, 2018

Meanwhile Spanish maritime rescue units said Sunday they have picked up 240 migrants since the start of the weekend, with one person reported drowned.

Migration will be high on the agenda Tuesday when EU interior ministers meet in Luxembourg and discuss the bloc's contested Dublin rule, under which would-be refugees must file for asylum in the first member country they enter.

Many of those landing on the Mediterranean coast see their arrival point as a pathway to their final destination, but the Dublin rule and tightening border checks have meant migrants are increasingly stuck in southern Europe.Larry Kudolow, a top US economic advisory, says the US trade dispute with allies could impact the US economy

President Donald Trump's top economics advisor acknowledged Sunday the trade dispute with US allies could jeopardize the booming American economy but dismissed criticism of the administration's stance as overblown.

Larry Kudlow's remarks came after finance ministers from the Group of Seven industrialized countries on Saturday expressed outrage over US-imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum and called on Washington to reverse course.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was especially irked by the US invoking national security as justification for tariffs, calling it "frankly insulting and unacceptable."

"The idea that our soldiers who have fought and died together in the mountains of Afghanistan and stood shoulder to shoulder, somehow this is insulting to them," he said in an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press."

Kudlow played down the concerns in an interview on Fox News Sunday.

"It think he's overreacting," he said of Trudeau. "As a fine friend and ally of the United States, nobody denies that. But the point is we have to protect ourselves."

Kudlow acknowleged that the dispute over trade could jeopardize a US economy that is now "clicking on all cylinders," with surging growth and low unemployment.

"It might. I don't deny that. You have to keep an eye on it," he added.

But Kudlow defended Trump's actions as aimed at reforming a global trading system rife with rule-breaking.

"Don't blame Trump. Blame China, blame Europe, blame NAFTA. Blame those who don't want reciprocal trading, tariff rates and protections. Trump is responding to several decades of trade abuses here," he said.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland warned in an interview on CNN that the US tariffs would hurt American companies and consumers first and foremost.

"We know that beggar-thy-neighbor policies don't work. That was the lesson of the 1920s and the 1930s," she said. "And I really hope people will take some time to reflect on the lessons of history, and not go down that path again."The military has conducted punishing offensives to hunt down Taliban and Al-Qaeda-linked militants in South Waziristan

A clash between Pashtun activists and local militants on Sunday killed two people and wounded 25 others in a restive Pakistani tribal region near the Afghan border, officials said.

The incident occurred in the Rustam Bazar of Wana, the main town of South Waziristan where the military has in the past conducted a string of punishing offensives to hunt down Taliban and Al-Qaeda-linked militants.

Supporters of the Pashtun Protection Movement (PTM), which is led by young activist Manzoor Pashteen, wanted to hold a rally to protest against growing corruption in the tribal regions.

"The clash erupted after supporters of Manzoor Pashteen were stopped from holding a protest rally by local militants belonging to Maulvi Nazir group " a senior local administration official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

The Pashtun activists torched two offices of the militants, which led to an exchange of fire, killing two people and wounding 25 others, the offical said.

Authorities were not immediately able to ascertain the identities of those killed and injured.

Maulvi Nazir Wazir was a pro-government militant commander who carried out attacks on US troops deployed in Afghanistan. He was killed in a drone strike in 2013.

The local administration immediately imposed a curfew on the area to control the fast deteriorating situation, another local intelligence official, who confirmed the incident and casualties, told AFP.

Another official said efforts were underway to the bring the situation under control, adding the local administration was holding talks with the "two parties".

The Pashtun Protection Movement, led by Manzoor Pashteen, is protesting against corruption and extrajudicial killings

The Pashtun Protection Movement rose to prominence after the killing of a young social media star in Karachi unleashed festering anger at extrajudicial murders.

It has been demanding action -- including investigations into disappearances and extrajudicial killings -- and an end to what it says is undue harassment of Pashtuns at security checkpoints.

Echoing accusations by Washington and Kabul, PTM activists say the military continues to allow extremists a safe haven from which to launch attacks in Afghanistan, while targeting insurgents that turn their guns on Pakistan.

For years, Pakistan has been accused by the US and others of using militants such as the Afghan Taliban as proxies, allowing them safe haven in the tribal areas.

Islamabad has repeatedly denied the claims.File photo taken on February 19, 2018, of French citizen Melina Boughedir carrying her son as she arrives to court in the Iraqi capital Baghdad where on June 3, 2018 she was sentenced to life in jail for membership of the Islamic State group

An Iraqi court Sunday jailed a French woman for 20 years for belonging to the Islamic State group as her lawyers accused authorities in Paris of "interference" to prevent her returning to France.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country, and was set to be deported back to France.

But another court ordered the re-trial of the 27-year-old French citizen under Iraq's anti-terror law.

On Sunday she was found guilty of membership of IS and handed a life sentence -- which in Iraq is equivalent to 20 years.

"I am innocent," Boughedir told the judge in French.

"My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said.

"I am opposed to the ideology of the Islamic group and condemn the actions of my husband," she added.

Her Iraqi lawyer, Nasureddin Madlul Abd, urged the court to acquit Boughedir, describing her spouse as a "jailkeeper not a husband" who had "forced" her to join him in Iraq.

Her French defence team -- William Bourdon, Martin Pradel and Vincent Brengarth -- said they were "relieved" she had been spared the death penalty, but vowed to appeal the verdict.

In Paris, the foreign ministry said France respected sovereign Iraqi justice.

"We note that the judicial procedure is not over," the ministry told AFP.

"France will continue to respect the sovereignty of Iraqi jurisdiction and the independent judicial proceedings."

Boughedir, who wore a black dress and headscarf, arrived in the courtroom carrying her youngest daughter in her arms. Her three other children are now back in France.

Hers is the latest in a series of verdicts doled out to foreigners who flocked to join IS in its self-declared "caliphate" after the jihadist group seized the northern third of Iraq and swathes of Syria in 2014.

On May 22, an Iraqi court sentenced Belgian jihadist Tarik Jadaoun, also known as Abu Hamza al-Beljiki, to death by hanging -- although he pleaded not guilty to a range of terror charges.

Jadaoun had earned the moniker "the new Abaaoud", after his compatriot Abdelhamid Abaaoud, one of the organisers of November 2015 attacks in Paris.

- 'Unacceptable interference' -

Even before she was sentenced, Boughedir's case sparked anger from her defence team, who had accused French authorities of interfering.

Iraq's second city Mosul, seen here on May 11, 2018, lies devastated after a years-long jihadist occupation and a months-long offensive to reseize it

On Thursday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Boughedir was a "Daesh (IS) terrorist who fought against Iraq" and should be tried on Iraqi soil.

Her French lawyers sent a letter of protest to Le Drian, seen by AFP, in which they denounced "pressure on the Iraqi judicial system" and "unacceptable interference".

Bourdon on Sunday condemned the verdict, saying it had been influenced by "extra-judicial reasons".

During the hearing, which lasted about one hour, the judge asked Boughedir -- who was arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul -- to explain why and under what circumstances she had arrived in Iraq.

He then declared that "the proof that has been gathered is enough to condemn the criminal" to a life sentence.

Bourdon said Le Drian wanted his client to be tried in Iraq to "ensure that she won't be heading back home to France any time soon", as part of efforts to prevent the return of jihadists.

Boughedir's family and her defence team want her to face a court in France, Bourdon said.

After being sentenced in February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry, she was set to be deported home.

But upon re-examining her file, an Iraqi court said she had "knowingly" followed her husband to Iraq to join IS.

- Second Frenchwoman sentenced -

Boughedir's husband is believed to have been killed during operations by US-led coalition-backed Iraqi forces to regain control of Mosul, Iraq's second city and the jihadists' former stronghold.

On Sunday she told the court that the man she had been married to for five years had disappeared one day, walking out and saying he was going out "to look for water".

Since then, she said, she had received no information about his fate or his whereabouts.

Boughedir is the second French citizen sentenced to life in prison by an Iraqi court for belonging to IS, after Djamila Boutoutaou, 29, in April. Boutoutaou also said she had been tricked by her husband.

Thousands of foreign fighters from across the world flocked to the black banner of the jihadists after the group seized swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014.

Multiple offensives have since reduced their "caliphate" to a sliver of desert in the east of war-torn Syria.

Iraqi courts have sentenced to death more than 300 people, including dozens of foreigners, for belonging to IS, judicial sources have said.

Dozens of French citizens suspected of having joined IS are believed to be in detention in Iraq and Syria, including several minors.Police fired tear gas and beat demonstrators with batons, according to an AFP reporter

Mali's government on Sunday condemned "false and slanderous" claims by the country's opposition that live ammunition was used against protesters during banned demonstrations two months ahead of a presidential election.

Twenty-five people were wounded in clashes in the capital Bamako on Saturday, a hospital source said, and the United Nations called from calm just days after Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited the West African country.

The allegations of live fire prompted a strong reaction from Prime Minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga, who said he read of the news "with indignation".

"I formally and vigorously deny this false and slanderous statement, which has no other goal than to distract the Malian people and government from the concerns of the moment, which are peace and security for transparent, fair and credible elections," he said in a statement.

His advisor Cheick Oumar Coulibaly said none of the wounded spent the night in hospital, and "no bullet wounds were recorded".

The capital's Gabriel Toure hospital said 25 people were admitted to emergency, but none were shot.

The "transparency" rally outside the party headquarters of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in Bamako attracted several hundred people on Saturday.

Police fired tear gas and beat demonstrators with batons, according to an AFP reporter at the scene. Clashes also took place in other locations.

The demonstrations came ahead of July 29 elections in which President Keita, 73, will face more than a dozen challengers.

On Sunday police officers in riot gear remained at several crossroads in the Malian capital, an AFP correspondent said.

- 'Intolerable attack' -

A man lies on a stretcher after a police crackdown on a banned demonstration in Bamako

Opposition presidential candidate Soumaila Cisse on Sunday called for an "investigation" into the incident after his office earlier accused the prime minister's security services of firing live ammunition at protesters outside the headquarters of the Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP).

Cisse denounced an "intolerable attack on fundamental freedoms", adding that "we absolutely must avoid an electoral crisis by establishing dialogue".

He added that the opposition would hold another protest on June 8, to call for "transparent elections" and equal access to public radio and television for campaigning.

Most protests are banned as the nation has lived under a near-constant state of emergency since an attack on a hotel in Bamako in November 2015 left 20 people dead.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who visited Mali last week, called late Saturday for "calm and restraint by all parties".

"The UN secretary-general regrets the government-imposed ban on the demonstrations by opposition parties," the UN said in a statement.

"(He) urges political actors and the civil society to favour dialogue in order to maintain an environment conducive to the holding of credible and transparent elections."

"(He) calls on the Malian government to ensure the protection of fundamental human rights and freedom of expression to peaceful demonstrations, including in the context of the ongoing state of emergency."

Mali is one of the "G5 Sahel" states -- along with Burkina Faso, Chad, Mauritania and Niger -- which have launched joint operations against jihadist groups.He made the remarks while meeting with Chairperson of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan (LDP)s Policy Research Council Fumio Kishida on June 1 in the framework of President Tran Dai Quangs state visit to Japan.

He thanked the Japanese side for giving President Quang and the Vietnamese high-ranking delegation warm welcome, particularly the presence of the Emperor and Empress at the ceremony to mark the 45th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic relations.

The Vietnamese diplomat said that the visit is significant to open a new development phase in the Vietnam-Japan extensive strategic partnership towards a more practical and effective manner, meeting expectations of people from the two countries.

On the occasion, he congratulated Kishida on receiving the Order of Friendship from President Tran Dai Quang in recognition for his great contributions to the development of the two countries relations.

Minh expressed his hope that Kishida will continue his support for the bilateral relations in the coming time.

Kishida, for his part, affirmed that Japan attached much importance to the success of President Quangs State visit while expressing his delights over the strong and extensive relations between Vietnam and Japan in the past 45 years.

Speaking highly of Vietnams socio-economic development in the past time, the Japanese official said that Japan will further assistance for Vietnam to develop socio-economy, including high-quality infrastructure construction and human resources training.

He said that it is his honour to receive the Order of Friendship from the Vietnamese State after more than two decades working for the thriving Vietnam-Japan ties.

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is known for pushing the envelope with threats and bluster as he seeks to leverage his nuclear weapons program into security and economic benefits for his country. But lately he's gained notoriety for his envelopes alone.

President Donald Trump on Friday declared that his on-and-off summit with Kim was on again. The announcement came after Trump hosted a senior North Korean envoy at the White House and he delivered a personal letter from Kim that was inside a white envelope nearly as large as a folded newspaper.

Trump has not yet revealed what was written in the letter, but he sure seemed happy to get it. A photo showed a grinning Trump holding up the envelope alongside Kim Yong Chol, the most senior North Korean to visit the White House in 18 years, as they posed in the Oval Office in front of a portrait of Thomas Jefferson.

President Donald Trump shakes hands with Kim Yong Chol, former North Korean military intelligence chief and one of leader Kim Jong Un's closest aides, as after their meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Friday, June 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

The photo made rounds on social media, where theories abound about why Kim would have sent Trump what seemed like a comically oversized letter.

Did Kim, a third-generation hereditary leader, think Trump would share his love for lavish gestures and things grandiose? After spending months trading insults and war threats with him, has Kim learned that the way to influence Trump is to appeal to his ego - something South Korean President Moon Jae-in seemed to try in April when he openly endorsed Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize?

No one outside North Korea likely knows the real reason for the letter's size. It could just be that's how Kim likes it.

Moon, who lobbied hard for nuclear negotiations between Trump and Kim, received a letter of similar size from Kim during February's Winter Olympics in which he expressed a desire for an inter-Korean summit.

Kim's to letter to Moon was personally delivered by Kim's sister, who attended the Olympics as a special envoy, and was covered by a blue folder emblazoned with a golden seal.

Analysts say the gesture of sending the letter itself is part of the meticulous steps North Korea is taking to present Kim as a legitimate international statesman who is reasonable and capable of negotiating solutions and making deals.

Following a provocative 2017 in which his engineers tested a purported thermonuclear warhead and long-range missiles that could target American cities, Kim has engaged in a flurry of diplomatic activity in recent months in what's seen as an attempt to break out of isolation and obtain relief from sanctions decimating his country's economy.

While trying to communicate its willingness to embrace Western diplomatic norms, Pyongyang has put in painstaking efforts to maintain reciprocity with Washington and Seoul, said Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul.

Kim Yong Chol's trip to Washington was clearly a response to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's travelling to Pyongyang, North Korea's capital, twice in recent weeks for pre-summit negotiations with Kim. Likewise, Kim's letter to Trump would have been a reciprocal response to Trump's own letter to Kim on May 24 that temporarily shelved the highly anticipated meeting, Yang said.

In his letter printed on White House stationery, Trump, in an uncharacteristically warm and congenial tone, said he was canceling the summit because of North Korea's harsh comments about U.S. officials. But he also told Kim "please do not hesitate to call me or write."

North Korea then issued an unusually conciliatory response to Trump's letter, with senior diplomat Kim Kye Gwan saying in a statement that Pyongyang had "highly appreciated" Trump's willingness to hold a summit, calling it a "bold decision, which any other U.S. presidents dared not." Hours later, Trump said the summit was potentially back on.

Kim's letter to Trump on Friday will probably borrow much of the language from the statement of his vice foreign minister, said Koh Yu-hwan, a North Korea expert at Seoul's Dongguk University.

"Kim would begin by praising Trump's leadership and his 'bold decision' to build up the summit," said Koh, who is also a policy adviser to the South Korean president. "He will then talk about denuclearization, ending hostility and normalizing relations between the countries."

Because of the directness and weight of formality they provide, Kim might see personal letters as an important way to communicate with leaders of countries the North never had close ties with, Koh said.

This sets Kim apart from his father and grandfather, who were never bold proponents of letter diplomacy and mostly limited the exchange of letters and telegrams with traditional ally Beijing and, to a lesser extent, Moscow.

However, North Korean Vice Marshal Jo Myong Rok delivered a letter from the late Kim Jong Il, the second North Korean leader, when he visited former President Bill Clinton at the White House in 2000, according to the State Department.

President Donald Trump talks with Kim Yong Chol, former North Korean military intelligence chief and one of leader Kim Jong Un's closest aides, as they walk from their meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Friday, June 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)SINGAPORE (AP) - It will be a "bumpy road" to the nuclear negotiations with North Korea later this month, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis warned Sunday, telling his South Korean and Japanese counterparts they must maintain a strong defensive stance so the diplomats can negotiate from a position of strength.

Mattis was speaking at the start of a meeting with South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo and Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera on the final day of the Shangri-La Dialogue security conference. He said allies must remain vigilant.

"We can anticipate, at best, a bumpy road to the negotiations," Mattis said. "In this moment we are steadfastly committed to strengthening even further our defense cooperation as the best means for preserving the peace."

U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis attends a trilateral meeting with Japan's Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera and Australia's Defense Minister Marise Payne during the 17th International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-la Dialogue, an annual defense and security forum in Asia, in Singapore, Saturday, June 2, 2018. (AP Photo/Yong Teck Lim)

Plans are moving forward for a nuclear weapons summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore. And Mattis repeated the U.S. position that North Korea will only receive relief from U.N. national security sanctions when it demonstrates "verifiable and irreversible steps" to denuclearization.

Through an interpreter, Song said that this is a great turning point as North Korea takes its first steps toward denuclearization.

"Of course, given North Korea's past, we must be cautious in approaching this," he added that some of North Korea's recent measures "give us reasons to be positive and one can be cautiously optimistic as we move forward."

From left, South Korea's National Defense Minister Song Young-moo, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Japan's Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera join hands before their trilateral meeting at the 17th International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-la Dialogue, an annual defense and security forum in Asia, in Singapore, Sunday, June 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Yong Teck Lim)BEIJING (AP) - China has balked at stepping up its purchases of American products, raising the odds of a trade war, if President Donald Trump follows through on his threat to tax billions of dollars' worth of Chinese imports.

The warning from Beijing came after delegations led by U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and China's top economic official, Vice Premier Liu He, wrapped up talks on Beijing's pledge to narrow its trade surplus. White House advisers were insisting on fundamental changes in ties between the world's two biggest economic powers.

At the outset of the event Ross said the two sides had discussed specific American exports China might purchase, but the talks ended with no joint statement and neither side released details.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross arrives to the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse to attend a meeting with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He in Beijing, Sunday, June 3, 2018. U.S. Commerce Secretary Ross is in Beijing for talks on China's promise to buy more American goods after Washington ratcheted up tensions with a new threat of tariff hikes on Chinese high-tech exports. ( (AP Photo/Andy Wong, Pool)

"Both sides appear to have hardened their negotiating stances and are waiting for the other side to blink," said Eswar Prasad, professor of trade policy at Cornell University. "Despite the potential negative repercussions for both economies, the risk of a full-blown China-U.S. trade war, with tariffs and other trade sanctions being imposed by both sides, has risen significantly."

Asked specifically on Fox's "Sunday Morning Futures" if the U.S. is willing to throw away its relationship with China by proceeding with threatened tariff hikes, Peter Navarro, director of the White House National Trade Council, pointed in part to an unfair relationship involving a multi-billion dollar trade deficit, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis' warning of China's activities in the South China Sea and the threat of China stealing U.S. intellectual property.

"That's a relationship with China that structurally has to change," he said. "We would love to have a peaceful, friendly relationship with China. But we're also standing firm that the president is the leader on this."

The United States has threatened to impose tariffs on up to $50 billion of Chinese products in a dispute over Beijing's aggressive tactics to challenge U.S. technological dominance; Trump has asked U.S. Trade Rep. Robert Lighthizer to look for another $100 billion in Chinese products to tax. China has targeted $50 billion in U.S. products for possible retaliation.

Tensions temporarily eased on May 19 after China promised to "significantly increase" its purchases of U.S. farm, energy and other products. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said then that the U.S. tariffs were suspended and the trade war was "on hold." The purchases are meant to reduce America's massive trade deficit in goods and services with China, which last year came to $337 billion, according to the U.S. Commerce Department.

After the apparent cease-fire, global financial markets rallied in relief.

But Trump upended the truce last Tuesday by renewing his threat to impose 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese high-tech goods. The tariffs are meant to pressure Beijing for allegedly stealing trade secrets and forcing foreign companies to hand over technology in exchange for access to the Chinese market. Navarro later called Mnuchin's conciliatory comments "an unfortunate soundbite."

Ross nonetheless journeyed to Beijing Friday to work out details of the vague agreement Mnuchin had earlier cobbled together with the Chinese vice premier. China balked at making concessions unless the U.S. lifted the tariff threat.

"If the United States introduces trade sanctions including a tariff increase, all the economic and trade achievements negotiated by the two parties will not take effect," said a Chinese government statement, carried by the official Xinhua News Agency.

The negotiating process should be "based on the premise" of not fighting a "trade war," the statement said.

The dispute with China comes at the same time Trump has riled some of America's closest allies with the imposition of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.

After a three-day meeting of finance ministers from the G7 industrial nations that ended Saturday in Canada, Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau issued a summary saying the other six members want Trump to hear their message of "concern and disappointment" over the U.S. trade actions.

Allies including Canada and the European Union are threatening retaliatory tariffs.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday that the reciprocal tariffs would hurt both U.S. and Canadian workers and consumers. He also pushed back against the argument that Canadian steel poses a U.S. security threat.

"The idea that we are somehow a national security threat to the United States is quite frankly insulting and unacceptable," he said.

Bruno Le Maire, France's finance and economy minister, also called the U.S. tariffs unjustified.

"We regret that our common work together at the level of the G7 has been put at risk by the decisions taken by the American administration on trade and on tariffs," he said.

Trade analysts had warned Ross's hand might be weakened if the Trump administration alienated allies who share complaints about Chinese technology policy and a flood of low-priced steel, aluminum and other exports.

___

Wiseman reported from Washington. Associated Press Writer Matt O'Brien in Providence, Rhode Island, contributed to this story.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, second from left, and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, right, arrive to attend a meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, Sunday, June 3, 2018. U.S. Commerce Secretary Ross is in Beijing for talks on China's promise to buy more American goods after Washington ratcheted up tensions with a new threat of tariff hikes on Chinese high-tech exports. (AP Photo/Andy Wong, Pool)

U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, fourth from left, and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He arrive to attend a meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, Sunday, June 3, 2018. U.S. Commerce Secretary Ross is in Beijing for talks on China's promise to buy more American goods after Washington ratcheted up tensions with a new threat of tariff hikes on Chinese high-tech exports. ((AP Photo/Andy Wong, Pool)China warns US trade deals are off if tariffs go ahead

BEIJING (AP) - China said Sunday it wouldn't step up its purchases of American products if President Donald Trump goes ahead with his threat to tax billions of dollars' worth of Chinese imports. White House advisers insisted on fundamental changes in ties between the world's two biggest economic powers.

China's warning came after delegations led by U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and China's top economic official, Vice Premier Liu He, wrapped up a meeting on Beijing's pledge to narrow its trade surplus. Ross said at the start of the event they had discussed specific American exports China might purchase, but the talks ended with no joint statement and neither side released details.

"Both sides appear to have hardened their negotiating stances and are waiting for the other side to blink," said Eswar Prasad, professor of trade policy at Cornell University. "Despite the potential negative repercussions for both economies, the risk of a full-blown China-U.S. trade war, with tariffs and other trade sanctions being imposed by both sides, has risen significantly."

Asked specifically on Fox's "Sunday Morning Futures" if the U.S. is willing to throw away its relationship with China by proceeding with threatened tariff hikes, Peter Navarro, director of the White House National Trade Council, pointed in part to an unfair relationship involving a multi-billion dollar trade deficit, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis' warning of China's activities in the South China Sea and the threat of China stealing U.S. intellectual property.

"That's a relationship with China that structurally has to change," he said. "We would love to have a peaceful, friendly relationship with China. But we're also standing firm that the president is the leader on this."

___

Many breast cancer patients can skip chemo, big study finds

CHICAGO (AP) - Most women with the most common form of early-stage breast cancer can safely skip chemotherapy without hurting their chances of beating the disease, doctors are reporting from a landmark study that used genetic testing to gauge each patient's risk.

The study is the largest ever done of breast cancer treatment, and the results are expected to spare up to 70,000 patients a year in the United States and many more elsewhere the ordeal and expense of these drugs.

"The impact is tremendous," said the study leader, Dr. Joseph Sparano of Montefiore Medical Center in New York. Most women in this situation don't need treatment beyond surgery and hormone therapy, he said.

The study was funded by the National Cancer Institute, some foundations and proceeds from the U.S. breast cancer postage stamp. Results were discussed Sunday at an American Society of Clinical Oncology conference in Chicago and published by the New England Journal of Medicine. Some study leaders consult for breast cancer drugmakers or for the company that makes the gene test.

MOVING AWAY FROM CHEMO

___

Fallon to Parkland students: 'Don't let anything stop you'

SUNRISE, Fla. (AP) - The senior class from the Florida high school where a gunman killed 17 people in February received diplomas Sunday and heard from surprise commencement speaker Jimmy Fallon, who urged graduates to move forward and "don't let anything stop you."

Four families were to receive diplomas on behalf of loved ones who were slain in the attack that gave rise to a campaign by teens for gun control. Principal Ty Thompson underscored the honors for the dead students in a tweet.

"Remember those not with us, and celebrate all the successes the Class of 2018 has brought to the community and the world!" Thompson tweeted.

The "Tonight Show" host offered similar praise, saying, "You are not just the future - you are the present. Keep changing the world. Keep making us proud."

In a video of his address, Fallon joked that the students "won't be classmates any more. You'll be adults who will Facebook search each other at 2 in the morning for the next 10 years."

___

Officer wounds self during pursuit near San Diego marathon

SAN DIEGO (AP) - A San Diego officer accidentally shot himself in the leg Sunday while pursuing a hit-and-run suspect who pointed a weapon at police and was eventually arrested on the roof of a parking structure near the finish line of an annual marathon, authorities said.

Officers fired at the woman but missed after she brandished the weapon at the parking facility in the city's downtown at the edge of a plaza shared by City Hall, police Chief David Nisleit told reporters.

The suspect threw the weapon from the top of the structure to the street below before being taken into custody, Nisleit said. It was unclear what type of weapon it was, but investigators were looking into whether it was a pellet gun that resembles the real thing, the chief said.

Detectives were investigating whether the woman was connected to a kidnapping in nearby Chula Vista, he said. In that incident a man called police to report that he was tied up inside a home but managed to escape.

Nisleit didn't have details on the wounded officer's condition or the circumstances of the accidental shooting. It wasn't clear how many shots the officers fired at the woman, who did not shoot. The suspect wasn't immediately identified.

___

Preliminary results put right-wing party ahead in Slovenia

LJUBLJANA, Slovenia (AP) - A right-wing opposition party led by a former Slovenian prime minister won the most votes in Slovenia's parliamentary election Sunday, but not enough to form a government on its own, according to preliminary results.

The State Election Commission said after counting some 90 percent of the ballots that Janez Jansa's Slovenian Democratic Party received around 25 percent of the vote. The anti-establishment List of Marjan Sarec trailed in second place with over 12 percent.

The Social Democrats, the Modern Center Party of the outgoing prime minister, Miro Cerar, and the Left all received around 9 percent.

The preliminary tally means no party secured a majority in Slovenia's 90-member parliament, and the likely next step is negotiations to form a coalition government.

Slovenia was once part of the former Yugoslavia and is the native home of U.S. first lady Melania Trump. Bordering Austria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy and a slice of the Adriatic Sea, the country joined the European Union in 2004 and has used the euro as its official currency since 2007.

___

Giuliani: Trump would fight any effort to subpoena him

WASHINGTON (AP) - An attorney for President Donald Trump stressed Sunday that the president's legal team would contest any effort to force the president to testify in front of a grand jury during the special counsel's Russia probe but downplayed the idea that Trump could pardon himself.

Rudy Giuliani, in a series of television interviews, emphasized one of the main arguments in a newly unveiled letter sent by Trump's lawyers to special counsel Robert Mueller back in January: that a president can't be given a grand jury subpoena as part of the investigation into foreign meddling in the 2016 election.

But he distanced himself from one of their bolder arguments in the letter, which was first reported Saturday by The New York Times, that a president could not have committed obstruction of justice because he has authority to "if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon."

"Pardoning himself would be unthinkable and probably lead to immediate impeachment," Giuliani told NBC's "Meet the Press." ''And he has no need to do it, he's done nothing wrong."

The former New York City mayor, who was not on the legal team when the letter was written, added that Trump "probably does" have the power to pardon himself, an assertion challenged by legal scholars, but says the president's legal team hasn't discussed that option, which many observers believe could plunge the nation into a constitutional crisis.

___

End of an era? Tea party class of House Republicans fades

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Republican newcomers stunned Washington back in 2010 when they seized the House majority with bold promises to cut taxes and spending and to roll back what many viewed as Barack Obama's presidential overreach.

But don't call them tea party Republicans any more.

Eight years later, the House Tea Party Caucus is long gone. So, too, are almost half the 87 new House Republicans elected in the biggest GOP wave since the 1920s.

Some, including current Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and White House budget director Mick Mulvaney, joined the executive branch. Others slipped back to private life. Several are senators.

Now, with control of the House again at stake this fall and just three dozen of them seeking re-election, the tea party revolt shows the limits of riding a campaign wave into the reality of governing.

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Lawyer fights for Harvey Weinstein, in court and out

NEW YORK (AP) - A powerful public figure is accused of sexual assault in a Manhattan hotel room. There's media frenzy. Enter go-to defense attorney Ben Brafman.

Brafman, 69, was on the winning end of that scenario in 2011 when he helped former International Monetary Fund director Dominique Strauss-Kahn beat an attempted rape charge.

Seven years later, Brafman has an even bigger challenge: defending Harvey Weinstein against sex crime charges.

"I'm trying my best to save him in somewhat of an impossible situation he finds himself in," Brafman told The Associated Press.

Saving unpopular clients in impossible situations is something of a specialty for Brafman, whose list of past clients includes professional athletes, celebrities and wealthy businessmen in trouble, some so vilified many lawyers would shy away from them.

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Concerned about elder abuse, states loan out secret cameras

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - When women at a group home for cognitively disabled elderly in Green Bay heard that the home's old proprietor was moving back in, they were terrified. One swore to the home's supervisor that she wouldn't allow it: John, she said, was "dirty."

"I don't like what he does to us," she said. Her housemate quickly shushed her, saying she wasn't supposed to tell.

Police were called in but struggled to build a case against the man. The women - who had to be spoken to as if they were children - made accusations, recanted them and then made them again.

Many cases like this one in 2016 unfold every year across the nation, often going unresolved because of the special difficulties that make elderly people especially vulnerable to mistreatment or crime. Now Wisconsin is taking a radical step to curb abuse and get reliable evidence for prosecutions - handing out free surveillance cameras to family members so they can secretly record caregivers suspected of hurting their loved ones.

Attorney General Brad Schimel said it should make preying on the elderly harder to get away with. "Anybody caring for a senior probably should think if they're misbehaving they could get caught for it," he said.

___

'Solo: A Star Wars Story' falls 65 percent in second weekend

LOS ANGELES (AP) - "Solo: A Star Wars Story" is losing momentum quickly at the box office, even with a relatively quiet weekend free of any new blockbuster competition. After an underwhelming launch, the space saga fell 65 percent in weekend two with $29.3 million from North American theaters, according to studio estimates on Sunday.

"Solo" has now earned $148.9 million domestically, which is still shy of "Rogue One's" December 2016 opening weekend of $155.1 million and over $135 million short of where "Rogue One" was in its second weekend.

The 65 percent drop off is one of the highest in recent "Star Wars" history, although it is less steep than the second week fall of the franchise's last film, "Star Wars: The Last Jedi," which slid 67.5 percent in weekend two this past December - but, that was also after a $220 million debut.

Internationally, "Solo" added $30.3 million, and globally the film has netted $264.2 million.

Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for comScore, thinks that all the media attention given to "Solo's" less-than-impressive opening weekend numbers could have actually negatively affected its second weekend earnings.LONDON (AP) - British Prime Minister Theresa May joined survivors, victims' families and emergency workers at a memorial service Sunday to mark a year since a deadly vehicle-and-knife attack brought terror to London Bridge on a warm Saturday night.

Eight people were killed and almost 50 injured when three Islamic State group-inspired extremists ran down pedestrians on the bridge, then stabbed people at packed bars and restaurants in nearby Borough Market, one of London's main foodie hubs. The three attackers were shot dead by police within minutes.

The rampage came two weeks after a bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester Arena that killed 22 people.

From left, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, Prime Minister Theresa May and Home Secretary Sajid Javid at Southwark Gateway Needle, on the south side of London Bridge, London, Sunday June 3, 2018, ahead of a minute's silence to mark one year since a deadly vehicle-and-knife attack on London Bridge. Britain's resolve to "stand firm" against terrorism is stronger than ever, Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday. (Andrew Matthews/PA via AP)

More than 700 people gathered Sunday inside the centuries-old Southwark Cathedral, nestled between the bridge and the market on the lively south bank of the River Thames.

Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn said he hoped the service of remembrance "helps our healing."

"Love is stronger than hate. Light is stronger than darkness. Life is stronger than death," he said. "It was true a year ago. It is as true today."

After the service, families of the dead planted an olive tree on the cathedral grounds, using compost made from floral tributes left by mourners after the attack.

May, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and some of the injured laid flowers beside the bridge before a national minute of silence at 4:30 p.m. The words #LondonUnited were due to be projected onto the bridge at dusk.

In a statement, the prime minister paid tribute to the bravery of first responders and others, including Ignacio Echeverria, a Spanish man who tackled the attackers with his skateboard and was killed.

May said the fact that seven of the eight victims came from outside Britain - from France, Spain, Australia and Canada - was "a reflection of our great cosmopolitan capital, whose energy and values brings together people from across the world, and a tragic reminder that the threat from terrorism transcends borders and impacts us all."

"Our resolve to stand firm and overcome this threat together has never been stronger," she said.

The London Bridge carnage was one of a string of attacks in Britain in 2017 involving Islamic or far-right extremists that killed 36 people in all.

Britain's official threat level from terrorism currently stands at "severe," the second-highest of five levels, meaning that an attack is highly likely.

"We expect the threat from Islamist terrorism to remain at its current, heightened level for at least the next two years, and that it may increase further," the government said Sunday. It said the threat from extreme-right violence is growing.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid said he plans to recruit 2,000 new security service officers to help combat the threat.

A tribute is projected onto the side of London Bridge, London, Sunday June 3, 2018, to mark one year since a deadly vehicle-and-knife attack on London Bridge. Prime Minister Theresa May says Britain's resolve to "stand firm" against terrorism is stronger than ever. (Dominic Lipinski/PA(/PA via AP)

Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn speaks during a service of commemoration at Southwark Cathedral, London, Sunday June 3, 2018, to mark one year since a deadly vehicle-and-knife attack on London Bridge. Britain's resolve to "stand firm" against terrorism is stronger than ever, Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday. (Dominic Lipinski/Pool via AP)

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaks to Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn as he arrives for a service of commemoration at Southwark Cathedral, London, Sunday June 3, 2018, to mark one year since a deadly vehicle-and-knife attack on London Bridge. Britain's resolve to "stand firm" against terrorism is stronger than ever, Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday. (Dominic Lipinski/Pool via AP)

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May speaks to Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn as she arrives for a service of commemoration at Southwark Cathedral, London, Sunday June 3, 2018, to mark one year since a deadly vehicle-and-knife attack on London Bridge. Britain's resolve to "stand firm" against terrorism is stronger than ever, Prime Minister Theresa May said on Sunday. (Dominic Lipinski/Pool via AP)KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - Nearly half of Afghanistan's children are not attending school because of war, poverty and other factors, a new report showed Sunday.

The study, released by the Education Ministry and the U.N. children's agency, said that 3.7 million, or 44 percent, of all school-age children are not attending school. It marks the first time since the U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 that the rate of attendance has declined, following years of steady gains in education for boys as well as girls, who were banned from attending school under the Taliban.

The survey says girls account for 60 percent of those being denied an education.

"Business as usual is not an option for Afghanistan if we are to fulfil the right to education for every child," Adele Khodr, UNICEF's Afghanistan representative, said in a statement. "When children are not in school, they are at an increased danger of abuse, exploitation and recruitment."

The Taliban have seized several districts across the country in recent years, as the U.S.-backed government has struggled to combat the insurgency. A long-running financial crisis, exacerbated by widespread corruption, has further hindered government efforts to expand access to education.

Widespread poverty forces many families to push their daughters into early marriages, often with much older men. The legal age for marriage in Afghanistan is 18, but the law is poorly enforced, particularly in conservative, rural areas.

Girls' education is still frowned upon in much of the conservative Muslim country, and is banned in the steadily expanding areas controlled by the Taliban.SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - North Korea's state-run news agency reported Sunday that Syria's President Bashar Assad is interested in visiting North Korea and meeting leader Kim Jong Un.

The KCNA report said Assad made the comments May 30 while receiving the credentials for the North Korean ambassador.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet HE Kim Jong Un," Assad was quoted saying, using the acronym for the North's official name.

There was no indication that such a trip had been planned.

The report also quoted Assad saying he was sure Kim that would "achieve the final victory and realize the reunification of Korea without fail."

Syria's government did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday.

The report comes as international attention is focused on a summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump scheduled for June 12 in Singapore.Germany's president has asked gay people for forgiveness for decades of persecution they suffered under Hitler's Nazi regime.

Frank-Walter Steinmeier spoke at a ceremony in Berlin held to remember the abuse of the LGBT community in Germany during the Second World War.

He also apologised for the mistreatment of gay people after the conflict, when homosexuality was still a criminal offence.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier bows in front of the memorial for the Nazi-persecuted gay people in Berlin, Germany on Sunday

He said: 'This is why I'm asking for forgiveness today, for all the suffering and injustice, and the silence that followed.'

Steinmeier added that he wants to assure 'all gays, lesbians and bisexuals, all queers, trans- and intersexuals' that they are protected in today's Germany.

He was pictured bowing his head in front of a memorial covered in flowers the colour of the German flag.

SPD Mayor of Berlin Michael Mueller also addressed crowds in front of the monument.DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) - Authorities say Cyclone Mekunu killed at least 30 people when it barreled across Oman and Yemen last month.

The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said in a statement that the majority of the fatalities happened on the Yemeni island of Socotra, where 20 were killed.

The federation said in a statement Thursday another four were killed in Yemen's al-Mahrah governorate, which borders Oman.

In Oman, authorities had previously said at least six people were killed by the storm.

Cyclone Mekunu made landfall on the Arabian Peninsula early May 26, causing flash floods and other damage. It earlier hit Socotra in the Arabian Sea.

The cyclone packed maximum sustained winds of 170-180 kilometers (105-111 miles) per hour with gusts of up to 200 kph (124 mph).PARIS (AP) - The French newspaper Le Monde is reporting that Saudi Arabia wants France to help prevent Qatar from buying Russia's most advanced air defense missile system.

Le Monde said it has seen a letter written by Saudi King Salman to French President Emmanuel Macron to express his "deep concerns" that Qatar is looking to purchase the air defense system, the S-400.

Le Monde quoted the letter as saying that if the missiles were deployed in Qatari territory, "the kingdom would be ready to take all necessary measures to eliminate this defense system, including military action."

FILE - In this Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017 file photo, Saudi King Salman speaks during a meeting of the Saudi-Iraqi Bilateral Coordination Council with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The French newspaper Le Monde is reporting that it has seen a letter written by Saudi King Salman to French President Emmanuel Macron to help prevent Qatar from buying Russia's most advanced air defense missile system. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool, File)

King Salman signed an agreement in Moscow last year to purchase the S-400 air defense system.

Saudi Arabia and other Arab neighbors have been embroiled in a diplomatic standoff with Qatar since last year, claiming it funds terrorism, which it denies.

Le Monde says the king ended the letter asking Macron for his assistance in preventing the sale.

The French president's office said Sunday it wouldn't comment on Le Monde's report.At their meeting, Minister Lich and Australian Defence Minister Marise Payne spoke highly of recent development in bilateral ties, saying that both sides continue carrying out effectively the defence cooperation in accordance with the spirit of the memorandum of understanding signed in 2010.

Minister Lich thanked the Australian Defence Ministry for helping Vietnam in providing language training for Vietnamese personnel taking part in the United Nations peacekeeping missions, as well as transporting equipment of the level-2 field hospital joining UN peacekeeping operations in South Sudan in the coming time.

During their meeting, Minister Lich and Japanese Defence Minister Onodera Itsunori agreed to boost future bilateral cooperation in the fields such as exchange of delegations at levels, maintenance of existing mechanisms, training, overcoming war aftermaths, UN peacekeeping operations, response to natural disasters, search and rescue activities and defence industry.

Meeting with his French counterpart Florence Parly, Minister Lich said Vietnam always supports Frances efforts to promote the maintenance of peace, stability and cooperation for development in the region. Vietnam is willing to support France to increase cooperation with ASEAN.

Both ministers agreed that in the time ahead, the two sides continue raising effectiveness of existing cooperation mechanisms and seeking new cooperation opportunities in the fields of shared concern.VATICAN CITY (AP) - Pope Francis has expressed sorrow over the deadly violence used to repress social protests in Nicaragua.

Francis told thousands of pilgrims and others gathered in St. Peter's Square on Sunday that he was praying for the victims and families in Nicaragua.

He renewed his call for dialogue, stressing that "an active commitment to respect freedom and above all life is required" for that to happen.

Pope Francis blesses the faithful during the Angelus noon prayer in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, June 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

More than 110 people have been killed since mid-April in clashes between loyalists to Daniel Ortega, Nicaragua's president since 2007, and opposition groups.

Francis prayed that "all violence ceases, and conditions are assured for the resumption of dialogues as soon as possible."WASHINGTON (AP) - Whistleblower or traitor, leaker or public hero?

National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden blew the lid off U.S. government surveillance methods five years ago, but intelligence chiefs complain that revelations from the trove of classified documents he disclosed are still trickling out.

That includes recent reporting on a mass surveillance program run by close U.S. ally Japan and on how the NSA targeted bitcoin users to gather intelligence to combat narcotics and money laundering. The Intercept, an investigative publication with access to Snowden documents, published stories on both subjects.

FILE - In this Feb. 14, 2015, file photo, Edward Snowden appears on a live video feed broadcast from Moscow at an event sponsored by ACLU Hawaii in Honolulu. Snowden blew the lid off U.S. government surveillance methods five years ago. The 34-year-old is living in exile in Russia, but intelligence chiefs complain that revelations from the trove of classified documents he disclosed keep trickling out.(AP Photo/Marco Garcia, File)

The top U.S. counterintelligence official said journalists have released only about 1 percent taken by the 34-year-old American, now living in exile in Russia, "so we don't see this issue ending anytime soon."

"This past year, we had more international, Snowden-related documents and breaches than ever," Bill Evanina, who directs the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, said at a recent conference. "Since 2013, when Snowden left, there have been thousands of articles around the world with really sensitive stuff that's been leaked."

On June 5, 2013, The Guardian in Britain published the first story based on Snowden's disclosures. It revealed that a secret court order was allowing the U.S. government to get Verizon to share the phone records of millions of Americans. Later stories, including those in The Washington Post, disclosed other snooping and how U.S. and British spy agencies had accessed information from cables carrying the world's telephone and internet traffic.

Snowden's defenders maintain that the U.S. government has for years exaggerated the damage his disclosures caused. Glenn Greenwald, an Intercept co-founder and former journalist at The Guardian, said there are "thousands upon thousands of documents" that journalists have chosen not to publish because they would harm peoples' reputation or privacy rights or because it would expose "legitimate surveillance programs."

"It's been almost five years since newspapers around the world began reporting on the Snowden archive and the NSA has offered all kinds of shrill and reckless rhetoric about the 'damage' it has caused, but never any evidence of a single case of a life being endangered let alone harmed," Greenwald said.

U.S. intelligence officials say they are still counting the cost of his disclosures that went beyond actual intelligence collected to how it was collected. Evanina said intelligence agencies are finishing their seventh classified assessment of the damage.

Joel Melstad, a spokesman for the counterintelligence center, said five U.S. intelligence agencies contributed to the latest damage assessment, which itself is highly classified. Melstad said damage has been observed or verified in five categories of information the U.S. government keeps classified to protect national security.

According to Melstad, Snowden-disclosed documents have put U.S. personnel or facilities at risk around the world, damaged intelligence collection efforts, exposed tools used to amass intelligence, destabilized U.S. partnerships abroad and exposed U.S. intelligence operations, capabilities and priorities.

"With each additional disclosure, the damage is compounded - providing more detail to what our adversaries have already learned," Melstad said.

Steven Aftergood, a declassification expert at the Federation of American Scientists, said he thinks intelligence agencies are continuing to do Snowden damage assessments because the disclosures' relevance to foreign targets might take time to recognize and understand. He said the way that intelligence targets adapt based on information revealed and the impact on how the U.S. collects intelligence could continue for years. But he said that any damage that Snowden caused to U.S. intelligence partners abroad would have been felt immediately after the disclosures began in 2013.

Moscow has resisted U.S. pressure to extradite Snowden, who faces U.S. charges that could land him in prison for up to 30 years. From exile, Snowden often does online public speaking and has been active in developing tools that reporters can use, especially in authoritarian countries, to detect whether they are under surveillance.

Snowden supporters say that the government is exaggerating when it claims he took more than 1 million documents and that far fewer have actually been disclosed.

"I think the number of NSA documents that have been published is in the hundreds and not the thousands," said Snowden's lawyer, Ben Wizner. He said the government has never produced any public evidence that the released materials have cause "genuine harm" to U.S. national security.

"The mainstream view among intelligence professionals is that every day and every year that has gone by has lessened the value and importance of the Snowden archives," Wizner said. "The idea that information that was current in 2013 - and a lot of it was much older than that - might still alert somebody to anything in 2018 seems like a stretch."

Greenwald said the journalists were handed some 9,000 to 10,000 secret documents under the condition that they avoid disclosing any information that could harm innocent people, and that they give the NSA a chance to argue against the release of certain classified materials.

"We've honored his request with each document we've released," Greenwald said. "In most cases, we've rejected the NSA's arguments as unsubstantiated, but always gave them the opportunity for input, and will continue to do so."

He said that in 2016, The Intercept announced a program to disclose Snowden documents in bulk and open the collection to journalists and other experts around the world. Greenwald said that since then, hundreds of documents have been disclosed at a time after careful reviews.MADRID (AP) - The Latest on migration into and around Europe (all times local):

9:10 p.m.

Tunisia's defense ministry says the number of migrants who died after their boat sank off the country's coast has increased to at least 46.

The ministry's press officer, Rachid Bouhoula, said Sunday afternoon that the bodies of 11 more people were recovered from the water as the rescue and recovery operation near the island of Kerkennah continued.

In a previous statement, the ministry said 35 people were killed and the coast guard rescued another 68. Most of them were Tunisians. Authorities said the boat was carrying about 180 passengers.

In recent months, Tunisia increasingly has become a point of departure for Europe-bound migrants fleeing poverty and conflicts in Africa and the Middle East.

___

5:00 p.m.

Tunisia's defense ministry says at least 35 migrants were killed after their boat sank off the country's coast.

The ministry said in a statement Sunday that the coast guard rescued 68 others, including Tunisians and seven foreigners, during a mission launched overnight and continuing.

The ministry says the boat was transporting about 180 migrants from Tunisia and other African countries.

It sank near Kerkennah island, on the east coast of Tunisia.

In recent months, Tunisia increasingly has become a point of departure for Europe-bound migrants fleeing poverty and conflicts in Africa and the Middle East.

___

2:20 p.m.

Nine migrants, including six children, have drowned in boat accident off Turkey's Mediterranean coast.

The boat capsized early Sunday morning near the town of Demre in the southern province of Antalya, according to the Turkish Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard recovered the bodies of nine victims and rescued four others. A fifth migrant was saved by a passing fishing vessel.

Turkey's state-run Anatolia News Agency reports there were 14-15 people on the vessel, according to the migrants, so authorities were still searching for one unaccounted for person. The migrants' nationalities have not been identified.

At the height of the migrant crisis in 2015, more than 857,000 migrants reached Greece from Turkey. A 2016 deal between Turkey and the European Union has dramatically reduced the numbers of migrants coming into Greece.

___

1 p.m.

Spain's maritime rescue service says it has rescued 240 people but one person apparently drowned while trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea from North Africa.

The service says Sunday that its agents spotted a body floating underwater after their rescue ship had saved 41 migrants from a sinking smugglers' boat.

In all, the service says it rescued the 240 people from 11 small boats attempting the perilous crossing from African shores to Spain between Saturday and Sunday.

The U.N. says at least 660 migrants have died crossing the Mediterranean so far this year. Through the first four months of 2018, a total of 22,439 migrants reached European shores, with 4,409 of them arriving in Spain.GEORGETOWN, Maine (AP) - John Hagan surveys a vast field of tidal mud and envisions a place where farmers will one day rake clams in a way that more closely resembles harvesting potatoes or carrots than shellfish.

Whether New England's long history of harvesting clams endures might hinge on whether the bold plan works.

The region's annual haul of clams is in decline, and Hagan, president of the Massachusetts-based sustainability group Manomet, is among the people who want to save it by encouraging the industry to try turning to a new model - farming.

In this Monday, May 28, 2018 photo Ethel Wilkerson of the Manomet conservation organization distributes young clams on a mud flat on the Kennebec River in Arrowsic, Maine. The group is working on a clam farming project with the hope that farmers will one day rake clams in a way that more closely resembles harvesting potatoes or carrots than shellfish. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

"This is a climate change story. The warming Gulf of Maine brings more crabs, and increasing crabs is what we think is playing a role in the diminishing soft-shell clam population," Hagan said. "Can we beat the green crabs? I don't have a hard answer."

Fishermen have raked wild soft-shell clams, also called steamers or longnecks, from coastal muck in Maine and other states for hundreds of years. But threats such as growing populations of predators, like the invasive green crabs, drove Maine's harvest to its lowest total since the 1930s last year.

The future of clamming could lie in seeding and growing clams in tidal areas, using protective nets, Hagan said. The group operates an experimental farm along the Maine coast, in Georgetown, and installed new ones this week in Scarborough and Arrowsic.

The group, along with some allies in the industry and academia, hope farming can help rehabilitate the harvest because clam farmers can use the nets to keep growing clams safe from predators like crabs. They have a long way to go, and Hagan and others acknowledge that scaling up clam farming to the point when it's profitable enough to be worthwhile could be difficult.

Some clammers already are on board.

"If this lets a clammer work, and he just needs to set up nets and things to make it, he'll do it," said Wendell Cressey, a clammer who plans to farm in Arrowsic. "As long as there's money, he'll do it. That's fishing."

Aquaculture is well established in Maine, where farmers steward everything from salmon to mussels to kelp.

But soft-shell clam farming remains mostly uncharted territory, said Jeff Nichols, a spokesman for the Maine Department of Marine Resources. No aquaculture leaseholders are growing soft-shell clams, though some are authorized to do it, he said.

Would-be farmers must contend with stubborn clammers who don't want to abandon a traditional New England way of life, property owners reluctant to lease space for clam farming and members of the public who don't want to lose waterfront access.

"They don't consider aquaculture to be fishing, even though that's the future of the shellfish industry," said Chad Coffin, a veteran wild-harvest Maine clammer.

Manomet's experimental Georgetown farm is a collection of about 75 280-square-foot (26-square-meter) netted areas of tidal mud - essentially clam nurseries - located at the mouth of the Kennebec River. It yielded enough clams to bring to market for the first time last year and is expected to do so again this year.

The group also has attempted to farm clams elsewhere in Maine, including on Chebeague Island, but with less success. And it also must contend with milky ribbon worm, another predator of clams that is not deterred by the nets.

The predators eat soft-shell clams, which are often used in fried clam rolls and clam strips. The nationwide harvest of the clams fell to a little less than 2.8 million pounds (1.2 million kilograms) of meat in 2016. That was the lowest total since 2000.

The situation is bleak, but Brian Beal, a professor of marine ecology at the University of Maine at Machias, said it creates an opportunity for farmers to save the clams.

"Either people are going to forget about clams, or they're going to say, 'I miss clams, I wish they were around, why are they so expensive,'" he said. "That's the time to say, if we had a clam farm, and we could put our hands on 1,000 bushel of clams, we'd have a lot of money."

In this Monday, May 28, 2018 photo young clams are removed from a net before being distributed at a soft-shell clam farming project in Arrowsic, Maine. Threats such as growing populations of predators, like the invasive green crabs, drove Maine's harvest to its lowest total since the 1930s last year. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

In this Monday, May 28, 2018, photo taken with a wide angle lens, a group of conservationists and clam diggers sprinkle baby clams onto plots on a mud flat on the Kennebec River in Arrowsic, Maine. Each plot will then be covered with a net to help keep away predators at the experimental clam farming project. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)BERLIN (AP) - The international airport in Hamburg, Germany has suspended all flights because of a power outage, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.

The dpa news agency quoted Hamburg Airport spokeswoman Stefanie Harder saying everyone was asked to leave the airport terminal Sunday as technicians tried to fix the problem.

Harder says she doesn't know why such a large area of the airport was affected by the power outage, thought to be the result of an electrical short.

Travellers wait in front of Terminal 1 during a blackout at the airport in Hamburg, Germany, Sunday, June 3, 2018. (Daniel Reinhardt/dpa via AP)

The airport is the fifth-largest one in Germany. On an average Sunday, 200 planes land or take off from Hamburg.BAGHDAD (AP) - An Iraqi court sentenced a French woman to life in prison on Sunday for membership in the Islamic State group.

Melina Boughedir, 28, was initially sentenced to six months in jail for entering the country illegally, but the court imposed a tougher sentence after prosecutors presented new evidence, including pictures of her French husband posing with IS fighters. The verdict can be appealed.

Boughedir, who was detained in the northern city of Mosul last year, appeared in court with her two-year-old daughter. She was represented by three lawyers.

Iraq detained thousands of people, including hundreds of foreigners, as it drove IS from Mosul and other areas. Some have been deported, while others have been sentenced in quick trials as the judiciary works through the large number of cases.

French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said last week that Boughedir was a "combatant" and a "Daesh terrorist", on French television channel LCI. "When you go to Mosul in 2016, (you go) to fight, so she is judged on the location of her actions... She fought against Iraqi units, she is judged in Iraq".

The comments prompted anger from Boughedir's lawyers. They made public a letter Saturday in which they denounced a breach of the presumption of innocence.COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - A reduced prison sentence is appropriate for an Ohio man who tried to help the Islamic State group, a defense attorney argued ahead of a June 7 sentencing, citing the defendant's youth, his remorse and his mental health struggles.

At issue is the case of Aaron Daniels of Columbus, who pleaded guilty last July to a charge accusing him of attempting to travel to Libya to join the group.

Defense attorney George Chaney asked for a two-year sentence and five years of supervision afterward in a court filing last month.

FILE - This undated photo provided by the Franklin County Sheriff's Office in Columbus, Ohio, shows Aaron Daniels. A reduced prison sentence is appropriate for Daniels who tried to help the Islamic State group, a defense attorney argued ahead of a June 7, 2018, sentencing, citing the defendant's youth, his remorse and his mental health struggles. (Franklin County Sheriff's Office via AP, File)

Daniels, now 21, was doing well in high school until he began suffering from schizophrenia, and was affected by that illness when he was communicating online with extremists, Chaney said. Daniels initially looked for sponsorship to help him with his goal of becoming an Islamic scholar, but was then exploited by extremists trying to radicalize American youth, a May 11 court filing said.

Online recruitment of young people to join Islamic State has been an ongoing issue and concern for authorities in the U.S. and elsewhere.

Those extremists "exploited his fragile mental state and corrupted his desire to serve Islam in a heroic way," Chaney said. Daniels "is eternally sorry and ashamed that he participated in the planning of these acts, and cannot to this day believe that he let it get as far as it did."

Authorities say Daniels wired $250 to an Islamic State operative in January 2016 to a Beirut intermediary for now-deceased Islamic State recruiter and attacks planner Abu Isa Al-Amriki, and told an undercover informant he was interested in traveling to commit violence overseas.

The complaint said at various times Daniels, who went by the aliases Harun Muhammad and Abu Yusuf, expressed interest in traveling to Afghanistan and Syria to wage war before settling on Libya.

Daniels also worked with a man who carried out a February 2016 machete attack at a Columbus restaurant owned by an Israeli. In that incident, Mohamed Barry injured four people before he fled and then was fatally shot by police when he lunged at them with the weapon.

The FBI said they couldn't find evidence the attack was orchestrated terrorism. In the aftermath, Daniels relayed news of the attack to an undercover informant "in an approving fashion," prosecutors said in a May 29 court filing.

In June 2016, Daniels told an undercover informant he wanted to go to Islamic State territory in Libya "so I could support the jihad there," according to a criminal complaint against Daniels.

Daniels was arrested in Columbus as he prepared to fly to Libya via Houston and Trinidad.

Federal prosecutors acknowledge Daniels' mental health problems, although they say there's also evidence that Daniels is exaggerating his psychological problems. A sentence of at least 15 years and up to 17, with lifetime supervision, is the appropriate punishment, they say.

Daniels "had sufficient clarity of mind to lie to law enforcement officers in order to deflect attention from himself when necessary and deceive them about his true intentions," prosecutors say.

___

Andrew Welsh-Huggins can be reached on Twitter at https://twitter.com/awhcolumbus.DZHEZKAZGAN, Kazakhstan (AP) - A Russian Soyuz space capsule carrying three astronauts from the International Space Station has landed safely in the steppes of Kazakhstan.

The capsule hit the ground at 6:39 p.m. (1239 GMT) Sunday without apparent problems, descending under a red-and-white parachute.

Aboard were Russian Anton Shkaplerov, American Scott Tingle and Japan's Norishige Kanai, ending a 168-day mission. All three were extracted from the capsule within 30 minutes. They appeared to be in good condition as they sat in lounge-type chairs near the capsule so they could re-adjust to the pull of gravity.

A Russian search and rescue team helicopter flies from the Kazakh town of Karaganda to Dzhezkazgan, on the eve of Russian Soyuz MS space capsule landing, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan, Sunday, June 3, 2018. The return of the Soyuz space capsule with Russian cosmonaut Anton Shkaplerov, U.S. astronaut Scott Tingle, and Japanese astronaut Norishige Kanai, crew members of the mission to the International Space Station, ISS is scheduled on Sunday, June 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)

The astronauts will later be taken to Karaganda, about 400 kilometers (250 miles) to the northeast. There they will undergo a longer medical exam and then be flown either to Moscow or Houston.

The orbiting laboratory now has a crew of three: Americans Drew Feustel and Ricky Arnold and Russian Oleg Artemyev. Another three astronauts are to be launched to the space station on Wednesday from the Baikonur complex in Kazakhstan.WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on President Donald Trump and special counsel Robert Mueller's Russia investigation (all times local):

8:55 a.m.

President Donald Trump's attorney says his legal team would go to court to prevent any effort to subpoena the president.

FILE- In this May 5, 2018, file photo, Rudy Giuliani, an attorney for President Donald Trump, speaks at the Iran Freedom Convention for Human Rights and democracy in Washington. Sharpening their legal and political defenses against the special counsel's Russia probe, President Donald Trump's attorneys stressed Sunday, June 3, that they would contest any effort to force the president to testify in front of a grand jury but downplayed the idea that Trump could pardon himself. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File)

Rudy Giuliani appeared on ABC's "This Week" on Sunday, a day after it was revealed that Trump's lawyers wrote a secret 20-page letter to special counsel Robert Mueller arguing that the president can't be compelled to testify in front of a grand jury.

Giuliani says they would contest it if Mueller tried.

But the former New York City mayor suggested that he did not entirely agree with the letter's premise that a president could never be charged with obstruction of justice.

He stressed, though, that Trump had done nothing wrong. And he said the legal team was leaning against having Trump be interviewed by Mueller's investigators.

___

12:35 a.m.

President Donald Trump's lawyers have made a bold assertion of presidential power. They've sent a 20-page letter to special counsel Robert Mueller that asserts Trump cannot be forced to testify in Mueller's Russia investigation.

Trump's legal team also argues that the president could not have committed obstruction because, they say, he has absolute authority over all federal investigations.

The existence of the letter composed in January was first reported and posted by The New York Times on Saturday.

It's another front on which Trump's lawyers are trying to make the case that the president can't be subpoenaed in the special counsel's investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election.

The lawyers contend in their January letter that the Constitution empowers the president to, "if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon."NEW YORK (AP) - A powerful public figure is accused of sexual assault in a Manhattan hotel room. There's media frenzy. Enter go-to defense attorney Ben Brafman.

Brafman, 69, was on the winning end of that scenario in 2011 when he helped former International Monetary Fund director Dominique Strauss-Kahn beat an attempted rape charge.

Seven years later, Brafman has an even bigger challenge: defending Harvey Weinstein against sex crime charges.

FILE- In this May 25, 2018, file photo, Harvey Weinstein, right, appears at his arraignment with his lawyer Benjamin Brafman, in Manhattan Criminal Court in New York. Brafman was on the winning end of that scenario in 2011 when he helped former International Monetary Fund director Dominique Strauss-Kahn beat an attempted rape charge. Seven years later, Brafman has an even bigger challenge: defending Weinstein against sex crime charges. (Jefferson Siegel/New York Daily News via AP, Pool)

"I'm trying my best to save him in somewhat of an impossible situation he finds himself in," Brafman told The Associated Press.

Saving unpopular clients in impossible situations is something of a specialty for Brafman, whose list of past clients includes professional athletes, celebrities and wealthy businessmen in trouble, some so vilified many lawyers would shy away from them.

He said in the past year he's gotten to know Weinstein as someone with "a forceful personality" who "soaks up all the oxygen in the room," but steadfastly maintains his innocence.

In Brafman, Weinstein gets a tactical and pugnacious lawyer willing to fight for him inside court - and outside, too, in pressure-cooker conditions.

With Strauss-Kahn, Brafman had a case that came to center on the credibility of a hotel maid who had accused the influential French diplomat of sexual assault.

Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr. - the same prosecutor handling the Weinstein case - ultimately dropped the charges, saying there were inconsistencies in the accuser's story.

Compared to Strauss-Kahn, Weinstein's case appears to be a much heavier lift: He faces more serious allegations of raping one woman in a hotel room, plus forcing another to perform oral sex in his office. On top of that, there are dozens of similar allegations against his client by actresses and other women and a climate of outrage fueled by the #MeToo movement.

After Weinstein turned himself in May 25, Brafman came out swinging, telling reporters: "Mr. Weinstein did not invent the casting couch in Hollywood," and that "bad behavior is not on trial in this case."

In the AP interview, the lawyer said he felt compelled to strike back against months of what he calls unfair press coverage fueled by leaks by authorities investigating the case. He also claims Vance is under intense political pressure to get a conviction, further stacking the odds against Weinstein.

"I think part of my ethical responsibility to a client in a high-profile case is to try and prevent a conviction by what's happening outside of the courtroom," he said. "And when there is a tsunami of bad press in a case like this, for example, I have to be able to try and level the playing field."

He added: "I'm not defending the crime of rape. To falsely accuse a person of rape, however, is equally offensive. And in this case, I believe that there are a number of very well-known personalities who have made accusations against Harvey Weinstein that are just patently false."

An Orthodox Jew who is the son of Holocaust victims, Brafman was raised in Brooklyn and Queens. He graduated from Ohio Northern University College of Law, and served as an assistant district attorney in Manhattan in the mid-1970s before building his defense practice.

In 2001, Brafman won an acquittal for hip-hop star Sean Combs after he was accused of toting an illegal handgun into a crowded Manhattan nightclub. Brafman says it taught him a lesson about managing hard-charging clients used to calling all the shots.

He had less success muzzling another big-name client, Martin "Pharma Bro" Skhreli, who was convicted at a high-profile trial last year of cheating hedge fund investors.

Even after he was found guilty, the former pharmaceutical CEO - notorious for inflating the price of a life-saving drug - kept taunting the likes of Hillary Clinton on social media, prompting a judge to revoke his bail. Skhreli ended up receiving a seven-year sentence.

Brafman also represented conservative author and filmmaker Dinesh D'Souza, who pleaded guilty to making illegal campaign contributions and was sentenced to probation. D'Souza was back in the news last week when President Donald Trump announced he was pardoning him.

Kenneth Montgomery, a lawyer who has represented an accuser in a rape investigation, said Brafman's willingness to engage the media is understandable in a legal system where "the government has a lot of power, and in a day and age where the media affects people's opinion."

Some defense attorneys stay pointedly mum outside court, but speaking to the media can make sense if "you want to get in front of" the public narrative of a case, Montgomery said.

Attorney Douglas Wigdor, who represented the maid who accused Strauss-Kahn, said Brafman "advocated on behalf of his client and used all his connections and skills to his client's advantage, and I can't really begrudge him for doing that."

In any case Brafman takes, "I think the client feels my passion for the work that I'm doing," he said. "I'm not a robot. I'm not just a hired gun. I get paid well, but I earn every single penny."

"People ask me if it's fun to be Ben Brafman at a time like this," he said. "It's fun for about a minute. And then it's just really hard work and an awesome responsibility."

FILE - In this Oct. 26, 2015, file photo, attorney Ben Brafman leaves federal court after his client was released on bail in connection with a U.N. bribery scheme in New York. Brafman was on the winning end of that scenario in 2011 when he helped former International Monetary Fund director Dominique Strauss-Kahn beat an attempted rape charge. Seven years later, Brafman has an even bigger challenge: defending Harvey Weinstein against sex crime charges. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens, File)

FILE- In this May 25, 2018, file photo, Benjamin Brafman, attorney for Harvey Weinstein, leaves the New York County Criminal Court building after Weinstein appeared on charges of sexual misconduct in New York. Brafman was on the winning end of that scenario in 2011 when he helped former International Monetary Fund director Dominique Strauss-Kahn beat an attempted rape charge. Seven years later, Brafman has an even bigger challenge: defending Weinstein against sex crime charges. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)

FILE- In this May 25, 2018, file photo, Harvey Weinstein, center, leaves with his lawyer Benjamin Brafman, right, after posting bail at Manhattan's Criminal Court in New York. Brafman was on the winning end of that scenario in 2011 when he helped former International Monetary Fund director Dominique Strauss-Kahn beat an attempted rape charge. Seven years later, Brafman has an even bigger challenge: defending Weinstein against sex crime charges. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews, File)A senior official in Egypt's Ministry of Education announced that a group of secondary students in Menoufiya governorate leaked Arabic language test of the Thanaweya Amma (general secondary) exam, held across the country on Sunday, in the latest of a series of educational exam leaks in recent years.

The head of the ministry's general department of exams, Khaled Abdel-Hakam, said photographs of the exam were published on social media halfway through the test, local news website Al-Shorouk reported.

The official said that the group of students who distributed the photographs has been identified and that necessary legal measures will be taken against them.

The ministry has been in contact with Facebook's administration about the cheating pages, which were shut down on Sunday, head of the ministry's general education department Reda Hegazy was quoted by local media as saying.

The results of the Thanaweya Amma exams, which are taken in each subject during students' final year of secondary school, determine their college destinations and courses of future study.

Over the past years, exam questions and answers for several Thanaweya Amaa subjects were leaked online, prompting officials to cancel, void or postpone some exams and to investigate possible leaks from within the education ministry.

However, Egypts new national high school booklet exam system was implemented in 2017 to eliminate the risk of exam leaks and reduce the possibility of errors occurring in the correction process. The new system requires students to submit their answers in the question sheet, as opposed to the previous system where answers were submitted in a separate sheet.

Egypt's parliament also approved last year amendments to a law toughening penalties for academic cheating and other exam violations, including publishing exam questions and papers and possessing mobile phones and others wireless devices in examination rooms.

Penalties for aiding in exam leaks include hefty fines of EGP 100,000-200,000 and jail terms between two and seven years.

More than 650,000 students are taking this year's tests.

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BOSTON (AP) - The estate of a Boston man who was shot to death by a city police detective and an FBI agent in 2015 during a terrorism investigation is suing the federal government for $5 million on wrongful death allegations.

Usaamah Rahim and two other men were accused of participating in a plot to behead conservative blogger Pamela Geller, who angered Muslims by organizing a Prophet Muhammad cartoon contest in Garland, Texas, in 2015. The plot was not carried out.

Authorities said officers shot the 26-year-old Rahim when he lunged at them with a knife in Boston. At the time, an anti-terrorism task force was surveilling Rahim around the clock because authorities had learned of the beheading plot.

Suffolk District Attorney Daniel Conley concluded the officers were justified in shooting Rahim.

The Boston Globe reported Rahim's estate filed the lawsuit in federal court in Boston on Thursday. It alleges law enforcement officers "unlawfully seized, assaulted and killed" Rahim, and accuses officials of acting "negligently and recklessly in their use of excessive force, and deadly force."

The lawsuit also says no fingerprints were recovered from the knife and there were inconsistent accounts by officials about how Rahim pulled the knife.

The FBI and Boston police declined to comment.

Authorities said Rahim's nephew, David Daoud Wright, and Nicholas Rovinski also were in on the plot against Geller. Wright is serving a 28-year prison sentence for conspiring to kill Americans on behalf of the Islamic State, and Rovinski is serving 15 years behind bars for plotting to commit acts of terrorism.

During the 2015 cartoon contest, two other men opened fire outside and wounded a security guard before they were killed in a shootout with law enforcement assigned to guard the event.

___

Information from: The Boston Globe, http://www.bostonglobe.comCalifornia's primary election is Tuesday and includes races for governor, U.S. Senate and other statewide offices, all 53 U.S. House districts and most seats in the state Legislature. The top two vote-getters in each contest will advance to the November general election, regardless of their political party. Californians also will vote on five propositions placed on the ballot by the Legislature.

Here are some key things to know:

VOTER TURNOUT

FILE- In this Nov. 8, 2016 file photo, people vote at a polling place set up at the Kenter Canyon Elementary School in Los Angeles. California's primary election on Tuesday, June 5, 2018, includes races for governor, U.S. Senate and other statewide offices, all 53 U.S. districts and most seats in the Legislature. (AP Photo/Nick Ut, File)

More than 2.1 million Californians already have voted by mail as of Saturday, according to public data from counties compiled by the nonpartisan Political Data Inc. The organization's vice president, Paul Mitchell, expects 70 to 75 percent of all primary votes will be cast by mail. He anticipates around 6 million people - about a third of registered voters - will cast ballots in the primary. That would be a low turnout but still better than the 25 percent who voted four years ago.

VOTER REGISTRATION

More than 19 million Californians are registered, according to the secretary of state's office. That's more than 75 percent of eligible voters. About 44 percent are registered Democrats. For the first time, Republicans are the third largest bloc at 25.1 percent, while 25.5 have no party preference. Five percent are registered with another party. This is the first year Californians who did not register by the May 21 deadline to vote in the primary can conditionally register at a county elections office or other designated location. Voters registered conditionally can cast provisional ballots, which take longer to process.

VOTE-BY-MAIL CHANGES

Under a new law, all registered voters in Sacramento, San Mateo, Madera, Nevada and Napa counties were mailed ballots. They can mail them back, put them in county drop boxes or vote in person at county vote centers, which have replaced polling places in those counties. A state law that allows ballots to be counted if they are postmarked by Election Day and received within three days has further delayed the final vote tallies. It often takes days and sometimes weeks to learn the outcome of close races.

OF INTEREST

- Recall elections are rare, but there are two high-profile efforts this primary. Republicans targeted Democratic state Sen. Josh Newman, of Fullerton, because of his vote last year to increase gasoline taxes, while Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Aaron Persky could lose his job because of the light sentence he gave a former Stanford University swimmer for sexually assaulting an intoxicated woman.

- Los Angeles-area voters may be surprised to see former state Sen. Tony Mendoza on the ballot. The Artesia Democrat resigned in February amid allegations he sexually harassed women who worked for him but then ran for the same seat.

- Mendoza's old district is one of three in the L.A. area where voters are choosing candidates after lawmakers quit following sexual misconduct accusations. In special elections that coincide with the statewide primary, voters will choose replacements for former Democratic Assemblymen Matt Dababneh and Raul Bocanegra.

- The state insurance commissioner's race includes one candidate - Steve Poizner - who once held the job as a Republican and is now running as an independent and another - Dr. Asif Mahmood - who started out running for lieutenant governor and then switched races.

- For the second straight election, Republicans aren't expected to get a candidate into the runoff for U.S. Senate. Incumbent Democrat Dianne Feinstein is a heavy favorite, and state Sen. Kevin de Leon is expected to finish second. The 11 Republicans running are all little-known and have little money, and none received the backing of the state party.MADISON, Wis. (AP) - When women at a group home for cognitively disabled elderly in Green Bay heard that the home's old proprietor was moving back in, they were terrified. One swore to the home's supervisor that she wouldn't allow it: John, she said, was "dirty."

"I don't like what he does to us," she said. Her housemate quickly shushed her, saying she wasn't supposed to tell.

Police were called in but struggled to build a case against the man. The women - who had to be spoken to as if they were children - made accusations, recanted them and then made them again.

In this April 26, 2018, photo, James Bira sits next to his mother, Darlene Bira, 79, with one of the several cameras he has installed in his home in Brookfield, Wis. Bira installed and paid for them himself because he wanted to make sure caregivers were not stealing or abusing his mother, who suffers from dementia. (AP Photo/Ivan Moreno)

Many cases like this one in 2016 unfold every year across the nation, often going unresolved because of the special difficulties that make elderly people especially vulnerable to mistreatment or crime. Now Wisconsin is taking a radical step to curb abuse and get reliable evidence for prosecutions - handing out free surveillance cameras to family members so they can secretly record caregivers suspected of hurting their loved ones.

Attorney General Brad Schimel said it should make preying on the elderly harder to get away with. "Anybody caring for a senior probably should think if they're misbehaving they could get caught for it," he said.

But Wisconsin's program, only the second of its kind, is prompting protests by the elderly care industry and privacy advocates who consider it a disturbing government foray into private spying.

"Now people are recording stuff for the cops," said Lee Tien, senior staff attorney for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a nonprofit organization that works to protect privacy as technology evolves. "There's no oversight or governance. (The programs) definitely create concern about expansion of government surveillance into private spaces."

Schimel noted that the cameras are loaned for only 30 days, and that people could already place a camera if they suspected abuse. Agency officials have spent $1,200 on equipment to start the program on a pilot basis.

Elder abuse can include beatings, molestation, theft of jewelry or credit cards and neglect. Victims with dementia or other cognitive problems often don't realize they've been victimized or struggle to report incidents coherently.

National statistics are difficult to compile, but state data suggest a worsening problem. In Wisconsin, counties reported 7,019 complaints in 2016, up 21 percent from just three years earlier. Demographics are broadening the vulnerable population, with the number of people 65 and older projected to almost double by 2050 in the U.S.

The National Association of Attorneys General called on its members in August to focus on elder abuse.

At least six states - Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Washington, Illinois and Maryland - have passed laws allowing some form of surveillance in nursing homes. One, New Jersey, has also begun loaning cameras.

Making video recordings in both New Jersey and Wisconsin is legal as long as at least one party involved is aware it's happening. Camera borrowers must agree not to make audio recordings to avoid violating federal wiretap laws, and agree not to place cameras in bathrooms or the caregiver's bedroom.

Neither program has generated any criminal charges yet, but they have generated vocal opposition.

Jon Dolan, CEO of Health Care Association of New Jersey, which represents long-term care facility providers, said the cameras could capture residents in compromising positions, like being naked while a nurse works on them.

The Wisconsin Personal Services Association, a statewide coalition of home care providers, foresees a chilling effect on recruiting caregivers for jobs that are already difficult and low-paying.

"Basically the worker has a privacy interest that doesn't seem to have been considered," said Tien of the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

Other states are looking at Wisconsin and New Jersey's loaner programs. The results of some private surveillance efforts have provided encouragement.

In suburban Milwaukee, a $650 private camera system installed by James Bira caught a caregiver emptying his mother's liquor cabinet. He paid for the cameras out of his own pocket, mounted them in plain sight and warned caregivers, but it didn't deter the liquor thief.

"I've had a couple (of) caretakers who didn't like (the cameras), but I said that's the way it's going to be," Bira said. "I'm going to protect my mom."

In the Green Bay case, investigators ultimately won a sexual assault conviction against the group-home proprietor but it was difficult - without any physical evidence, investigators had only the women's statements to go on.

"If we would have had the video," said Brown County Sheriff's Sgt. Tim Bernklau, "it would have been a slam-dunk."

___

Follow Todd Richmond on Twitter at https://twitter.com/trichmond1

In this April 26, 2018, photo, James Bira shows how he uses different screens to monitor the behavior of his mother's caregivers at his home in Brookfield, Wis. Bira installed the cameras and paid for them himself because he wanted to make sure caregivers were not abusing his mother or stealing. (AP Photo/Ivan Moreno)JERUSALEM (AP) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads to Europe this week in a bid to rally support from key allies for amending the international nuclear deal with Iran and for pushing Iranian forces out of neighboring Syria.

Netanyahu is set to meet with leaders from Germany, France and Britain, beginning with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday.

Addressing his Cabinet Sunday, Netanyahu said archenemy Iran would top his agenda and voiced optimism for a successful visit. Israel has been a leading critic of the international nuclear deal with Iran, and more recently, has said it will not allow Iran to establish a permanent military presence in Syria.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, center, attends the weekly cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister's office in Jerusalem Sunday, June 3, 2018 (AP Photo/Sebastian Scheiner, Pool)

"For years we stood alone against these twin threats and I think that the situation has changed for the better," Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu unsuccessfully tried to block the landmark nuclear deal, which gave Iran relief from crippling sanctions in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program, when it was negotiated in 2015 under the leadership of President Barack Obama. He has found a welcome ally in President Donald Trump, who last month announced the U.S. was withdrawing from the deal.

Both the U.S. and Israel hope that Trump's withdrawal can lead all sides into addressing what they say are the deal's shortcomings - including "sunset" provisions that end restrictions on Iranian nuclear activities, such as enriching uranium, as well as permitting Iran to continue to develop long-range missiles.

Netanyahu says that as the deal expires over the next decade or so, Iran will emerge with the ability to produce a nuclear bomb in a very short time.

In addition to the U.S., the nuclear deal was negotiated by Germany, France, Britain, Russia and China. The remaining members have said they remain committed to the deal. Iran for now also is honoring the agreement, though some top officials have suggested it resume its enrichment activities.

Macron's office said France will insist on having a dialogue with Iran.

An official in his office said Macron, along with Germany and the U.K., have all been "clear" that they will work with the existing deal, viewing it as the best way to control Iran's nuclear activity. The official spoke on condition of anonymity under customary briefing guidelines.

Oded Eran, a former Israeli ambassador to the European Union, said Netanyahu is unlikely to change the minds of his counterparts on the necessity for the current agreement.

But he said he may sway them on certain details not included in the deal, such as Iran's missile development and the expiration of restrictions on nuclear activity.

"There's no secret that the prime minister wants to completely change the agreement and replace it with an agreement that covers the issues that are missing," said Eran, senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies at Tel Aviv University. "I don't think that he will change the policy, but he will get maybe a commitment to work on the missing points."

While Iran says its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only, Israel recently released tens of thousands of seized Iranian nuclear documents that Netanyahu said proves that Iran pursued a nuclear bomb in the past. He is likely to discuss this information with the other leaders.

Eran said Netanyahu may make more progress on his other demand - expelling Iranian forces from Syria.

Netanyahu has long identified Iran as its greatest threat, pointing to its nuclear program, calls for Israel's destruction and support of anti-Israel militant groups.

Israel fears that as the Syrian civil war winds down, Iran, whose forces and Shiite proxies have backed President Bashar Assad, will turn its focus to Israel.

The Israeli air force is believed to have carried out a number of airstrikes on Iranian positions in Syria. Last month, the bitter enemies openly clashed when Iran fired dozens of rockets at Israeli positions in the Golan Heights, and Israel responded by striking several Iranian targets in Syria.

Eran said he believes the European leaders are receptive to Israeli concerns.

"I think he will reach an understanding on the question of Iran's deployment in Syria and other activities of Iran in the region," he said.

The French official said Iranian influence in Syria needs to be addressed, and that France agrees that Iran's military presence there is a threat to security. The official said Macron would seek to be briefed on Israeli dialogue with Russia - another key Assad backer - about Iran.

Russian officials have signaled in recent days that there may soon be an agreement for Iran to move its forces away from Israel's border, but there has been no confirmation of a deal.

In addition to discussing the Iranian deal, Netanyahu is likely to hear about European concerns about Israel's use of live fire in mass Palestinian protests along the Gaza's border with Israel.

Over 110 Palestinians have been killed since the protests began two months ago, most of them unarmed. The EU has accused Israel of using excessive force, while rights groups have accused Israeli snipers of acting illegally by using deadly force against unarmed protesters who did not pose an immediate threat to their lives.

Israel says Gaza's Hamas leaders are responsible for the bloodshed. It accuses the militant group of using protesters as cover to break through the border fence and carry out attacks. Some protesters have hurled firebombs, tried to breach the fence or sent flaming kites over the border to burn nearby Israeli farmland, undermining Hamas' claims that the protests were entirely peaceful.

Netanyahu's first stop will be in Germany. Merkel has been a critic of Netanyahu's, objecting to settlement policies in the West Bank and east Jerusalem. Last year, Netanyahu also snubbed Germany's foreign minister, Sigmar Gabriel, after he met with a non-governmental organization critical of Israel's West Bank policies. The two met earlier this year.

In France, Netanyahu and Macron will attend a ceremony celebrating Israel's 70th anniversary. He then heads to Britain to meet with Prime Minister Theresa May.NEW LONDON, Conn. (AP) - A Mississippi congressman is urging his Connecticut colleagues to meet with NAACP members to discuss concerns about racial discrimination at the Coast Guard Academy.

The Day newspaper reports Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson recently talked about those concerns with NAACP members in New London, the academy's home. He's urging three Connecticut Democrats - U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy and U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney - to do the same.

Blumenthal says plans are in the works for such a meeting.

New London NAACP members say they have received complaints of hate crimes at the academy. Thompson is ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee, which has oversight over the Coast Guard.

Academy officials have said the school does not tolerate racism and has accountability and disciplinary systems in place.

___

Information from: The Day, http://www.theday.comSAO PAULO (AP) - Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Brazil's largest city Sunday for its 22nd gay pride parade, which is considered one of the world's biggest.

Waving LGBT rainbow flags in a Carnival-like atmosphere, marchers paraded down Sao Paulo's skyscraper-lined Avenida Paulista to music blasting from 18 sound trucks.

Revelers of all ages, many wearing bright wigs, heavy makeup and multicolored costumes, filled more than 10 city blocks.

Revelers at the annual gay pride parade hold up a giant rainbow flag in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Sunday, June 3, 2018. This year the parade focused on the general elections scheduled for October, with the theme "Power for the LGBT. Our Vote, Our Voice." (AP Photo/Nelson Antoine)

This year's parade focused on Brazil's national elections scheduled for October. The theme was "Power for the LGBT - Our Vote, Our Voice," said Claudia Regina, president of the gay rights group that organized the event.

Regina said on the event's official Facebook page that the objective "is to alert the gay community to the importance of choosing its candidates carefully."

"We have achieved many rights and there are still many more to be conquered," she said. "We cannot lose what we have achieved to political ignorance. Together we can promote a more tolerant and respectful world with less LGBT phobia."

On top of one sound truck a drag queen known as Tchaka chanted: "This year we should punch Congress in the face." The crowd responded by calling for the ouster of Brazil's widely unpopular president, Michel Temer.

For participant Camilla Wotton the march was especially important because of its focus on the elections.

"I think we don't have an LGBT voice in politics, so this year is very important, if not the most important one we have ever had," she said.

Another marcher, Vinicius Guimaraes, said the event is a call for respect for the LGBT community,

"We want respect as other people have," he said, adding that the march was not "just for gays, but for everyone."

Revelers fill the streets during the annual gay pride parade in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Sunday, June 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Nelson Antoine)

Revelers kiss during the annual gay pride parade in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Sunday, June 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Nelson Antoine)

Revelers in wheelchairs take part in the annual gay pride parade in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Sunday, June 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Nelson Antoine)DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Pakistan (AP) - A Pakistani official says at least one person has been killed and a dozen others wounded in a clash between local tribesmen and supporters of the Pashtun Protection Movement in South Waziristan's main town of Wana.

Sohail Ahmed Khan, a regional administration official, said the Saturday evening clashes broke out after a quarrel at a fuel station.

Khan said a curfew was imposed and the situation brought under control.

The Pashtun rights group has for months been calling for the return of disappeared Pashtuns allegedly detained during military operations in the region. It also demand removal of security posts and respect for tribesmen at checkpoints.

After the clashes the deceased and wounded were transported to Dera Ismail Khan where the movement's supporters staged a protest chanting anti-army slogans.BERLIN (AP) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel is coming under pressure to address allegations that she knew as early as last year about mismanagement in the government office for refugees that came to light recently.

The newspaper Bild am Sonntag reported Sunday that it obtained documents showing Merkel was briefed on the issue at the beginning of 2017 by the former head of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees.

This week, the interior minister froze asylum decisions in a branch of the refugee department amid allegations it improperly granted hundreds of asylum requests.

FILE - In this Aug. 21, 2015 file photo hundreds of migrants wait outside of the reception center for refugees and asylum- seekers in Berlin. The far-right Alternative for Germany party is calling for a parliamentary investigation into the government's handling of the migrant crisis in 2015. The AfD party, which came third in last year's national election, wants parliament to determine whether Chancellor Angela Merkel broke the law by refusing to shut Germany's borders to refugees. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber, file)

The general secretary of the Social Democrats, Merkel's coalition partner, said Sunday that she must explain when she became aware of the problems.

Germany took in more than 1 million refugees and migrants in 2015 and 2016.PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Concert ticketing service Ticketfly says it's working to get its system back online after a data breach leaked users' personal information and disrupted services at live music venues.

The San Francisco firm's parent company, Eventbrite, said Sunday that the stolen information included customers' names, addresses, emails and phone numbers.

It hasn't disclosed other details, but a website that tracks data breaches says the hack affected more than 26 million user accounts.

Troy Hunt, who runs the "Have I Been Pwned?" (POHNED) website, says it's not as immediately damaging as other breaches because passwords weren't stolen.

The breach left nightclubs and other venues from Seattle to Providence, Rhode Island, scrambling for alternatives to sell tickets for upcoming shows.

Eventbrite bought rival Ticketfly for $200 million last year from music service Pandora.Jeffery Lynn Borden, 56, was found dead hanging from a bed sheet in his jail cell Sunday morning

An Alabama death row inmate has been found dead in his cell from an apparent suicide Sunday morning.

The Alabama Department of Corrections said 57-year-old Jeffrey Lynn Borden was found hanging by a bed sheet in his cell during a security check at 2.30am.

He was pronounced dead at 3am, a prison spokesman said.

Borden was convicted of killing his estranged wife, Cheryl Borden, and her father, Roland Harris, in Jefferson County in 1993 and sentenced to death.

Borden, who was separated from his wife, was returning their three children to the Christmas Eve gathering after a week-long visit with him in Gardendale, Alabama.

Prosecutors said he shot Cheryl Borden in front of the children as she helped move their Christmas gifts and clothing and then shot her father as he ran for help.

A jury recommended the death penalty by a 10-2 vote.

Borden had been scheduled to get a lethal injection in October 2017, but a federal judge halted the execution hours before Borden was to be put to death.

Borden's attorney, John Palombi, made a last-minute bid for another stay, noting the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals had ordered more proceedings in Borden's challenge to the humaneness of Alabama's lethal injection procedure.

'The State and the surviving victims - particularly Cheryl Borden's children who witnessed this barbaric crime - have a strong interest in seeing Borden's lawful sentence be carried out,' state attorneys wrote at the time of the appeal.

Cheryl and Jeffery's oldest child, a son, was 11 years old at the time. He later testified at his father's murder trial, describing for the jury the moment he saw his mother collapse to the ground after being shot.

Cheryl Borden's sister Connie told Al.com that their sibling Cindi was planning to attend their former brother-in-law's execution and argued that the execution should be about getting justice for their murdered sister and their father, not securing a stay of execution for their killer.

'We have to ask, what happened to my sister and father getting a stay of execution?' Connie Harris asked. 'There is no punishment too cruel for what he [Jeffery Borden] did to my family.'THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP) - Authorities in Greece say a 58-year-old motorcyclist was killed when lightning struck him on a highway.

Police say the man was found dead 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of the northern city of Thessaloniki with a hole in his helmet, presumably the result of the lightning striking him. The victim was driving toward the city in stormy conditions.

There were no details about burns on the body, but authorities say they are certain the motorcyclist's death was not the result of his 800-cc motorcycle falling after the lightning struck.Serena Williams wasted little time ramping up her rivalry with Maria Sharapova after setting up a French Open fourth-round meeting with her old foe.

The pair will face each other for the first time since the quarter-final of the 2016 Australian Open, which was Sharapovas last match before a 15-month doping ban.

Sharapova has won just two of their 21 meetings, including the 2004 Wimbledon final which she covered in some detail in her autobiography released last year.

Serena Williams

In it the Russian described how she heard Williams sobbing loudly in the locker room afterwards, and claimed that defeat was the reason behind the Americans dominant record over her since.

Williams hit back shortly after completing a 6-3 6-4 third-round win over Julia Goerges.

She said: I think the book was 100 per cent hearsay, at least all the stuff I read and the quotes that I read, which was a little bit disappointing.

.@serenawilliams put together a commanding performance to defeat Julia Goerges in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, and set up a fourth-round @rolandgarros clash with Maria Sharapova --> https://t.co/pT9Lfq1o9M pic.twitter.com/mKmVqIvv7O  wta (@WTA) June 2, 2018

One of the things I always say, I feel like women, especially, should bring each other up.

I wanted to read the book and I was really excited for it to come out and I was really happy for her.

And then the book was a lot about me! I was surprised about that, to be honest. I didnt expect to be reading a book about me, that wasnt necessarily true.

Serena. Maria.



This is one fourth round match you won't want to miss.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/mTkV44g7to  Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 2, 2018

So I was like, this is really interesting. I didnt know she looked up to me that much or was so involved in my career.

Williams is playing her first grand slam since giving birth to her daughter in September.

Its been different, she added. We are both on a comeback  for two totally different reasons  and shes been on her journey for over a year and I just started mine a couple months ago.

"Quite frankly, she's probably a favourite in this match. She's been playing for over a year now. I just started.



But I think this will be another test. This would be a good opportunity for me kind of to see where I am."



Serena on playing Sharapova.#RG18 pic.twitter.com/g5lFwalmdh  Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 2, 2018

Sharapova had earlier dropped just three games as she knocked out the sixth-seeded Czech Karolina Pliskova.

Asked about a showdown with Williams, she said: Its been a while, and I think a lot has happened in our lives for the both of us in very different ways.

I have spoken about that chapter for a long time now, and to be able to put myself back in these positions and to not shy away from these moments, to come out on centre court and want the challenge of moving forward and to be able to face Serena, I think that speaks for itself.

Happy  from today pic.twitter.com/A4dVVCojlY  Maria Sharapova (@MariaSharapova) June 2, 2018

Wimbledon champion Garbine Muguruza is now many pundits favourites for the title after dismantling Sam Stosur.

The Spaniard, winner in 2016 and seeded third, took just 62 minutes to see off Stosur, the 2011 US Open champ, 6-0 6-2.

Two-time Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova was a third-round casualty, the eighth seed going down in two tie-breaks to Anett Kontaveit.

Top seed Simona Halep came through 7-5 6-0 against Andrea Petkovic and Caroline Garcia, the seventh seed, beat Irina-Camelia Begu 6-1 6-3.The United States has been singled out by some of its closest allies over the imposition of tariffs that they warn will undermine open trade and weaken confidence in the global economy.

The dispute over US president Donald Trumps new levies on steel and aluminium imports is driving a wedge in the G7 group of industrial nations.

Following Saturdays conclusion of a three-day meeting of G7 finance ministers, Canadian finance minister Bill Morneau issued a summary saying the other six members want Mr Trump to hear their message of concern and disappointment over the US trade actions.

Canada G7 Finance

Allies including Canada and the European Union are threatening retaliatory tariffs.

Read the Chairs Summary for the #G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting on Investing in #growth that works for everyone: https://t.co/Atw2dp8Nnd  G7 UK (@G7) June 2, 2018

The G7 ministers urged US Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin to deliver their message before leaders of the groups member countries meet next week in Quebec.

Ministers urged the US to abandon the tariffs ahead of the leaders summit before the move causes deeper divisions within the G7.

The international community is faced with significant economic and security issues, which are best addressed through a united front from G7 countries, said the summary, which was agreed to by the attending ministers.

Members continue to make progress on behalf of our citizens, but recognize that this collaboration and co-operation has been put at risk by trade actions against other members, it added.

Bruno Le Maire, Frances finance and economy minister, was blunt in his assessment of the Whistler meeting, where ministers confronted Mr Mnuchin.

It has been a tense and tough G7  I would say its been far more a G6 plus one than a G7, said Le Maire, who called the tariffs unjustified.

We regret that our common work together at the level of the G7 has been put at risk by the decisions taken by the American administration on trade and on tariffs, he said.

I had many important discussions with my counterparts at the 2018 #G7 Finance Ministerial. Thank you @Bill_Morneau and Canada for hosting. pic.twitter.com/lwxSoCpelO  Steven Mnuchin (@stevenmnuchin1) June 2, 2018

Mnuchin disagreed with Le Maire.

I think there was a comment out there that (this was) the G6 plus one. It was not We believe in the G7, its an important group, Mr Mnuchin said at his own news conference.

Im sure that the president looks forward to coming to Canada and meeting all the other leaders with many, many important issues going on throughout the world.

Mr Morneau, who presided at the ministerial meeting in Whistler, said even though the group found common ground on many subjects, G7 members are now forced to do whatever they can to persuade Trump to withdraw the tariffs.

They actually are destructive. And thats consistently held across the six countries that expressed their point of view to Secretary Mnuchin, Mr Morneau told reporters.

The US president has said the tariffs are needed to protect US steel and aluminium industries vital to the nations security.

Mr Morneau has called the tariffs absurd, saying Canadian metal sales are no security risk to the US. He warns the measures will destroy jobs on both sides of the border.

I wish to thank my G7 counterparts for the productive meetings in Whistler  and I reiterate Prime Minister @JustinTrudeaus appeal for commons sense to prevail as the Summit gets underway in Charlevoix next week.  Bill Morneau (@Bill_Morneau) June 2, 2018

Mr Le Maire said it is up to the US to take action to rebuild confidence among G7 members and to avoid any escalation during the leaders summit next week.

That meeting, which will be hosted by Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, will be Mr Trumps first visit to Canada as president.Two people have been killed in a collapsed building in the Kenyan capital, police in Nairobi said.

Pius Masai Mwachi of the National Disaster Management Unit says a rescue operation is under way after a five-story residential building collapsed early on Sunday in Nairobis Huruma Ngei neighbourhood.

He said a body was pulled from the rubble and another person who was rescued alive later died.

Kenya Collapsed Building

UPDATE: TWO dead, seven others injured and treated on site by St John Ambulance after a five-storey building collapsed at Huruma pic.twitter.com/hgoBzrS87M  St John Ambulance Kenya (@StJohnKenya) June 3, 2018

He said three others who were rescued are being treated at a hospital.

Building collapses have become common in Nairobi, where four million people live in low-income areas or slums.

Housing is in high demand and unscrupulous developers often bypass building regulations.Having a child with special needs enables parents to understand and appreciate the important things in life, says actress and writer Sally Phillips.

The well-known British comic was speaking at FestABLE, a festival celebrating specialist learning staged at National Star College in Cheltenham.

It is the first time a festival dedicated to specialist learning has been staged in the UK.

Sally Phillips

A BIG thankyou to @sallyephillips for attending FestABLE. What a perfect end to a perfect day. RT if you agree. And don't forget that @FestableUK will be back! Lovely pic of @AspieDeLaZouch too. pic.twitter.com/7gN7ZNwsBB  FestableUK (@FestableUK) June 3, 2018

We are sitting on a treasure chest in the SEN world. Not only do we have freedom from some of the standards that the world operates with which are completely bogus but theres a lot of living in the moment, said Ms Phillips, who has a son with Downs Syndrome.

All the things that mindfulness is bringing to the forefront we already know. We already know about colouring a page very, very slowly and the conversations you can have while thats happening.

It doesnt appear to have a value, but it has a deep value and brings health to the soul. We already know if you walk slowly through a field you see more than if you drive through.

Hundreds of parents, young people and professionals participated in discussions and workshops at the festival.

A picture is worth 1,000 words - and sometimes even more. The appreciative @festable audience at @sallyephillips' closing presentation. Here's to #PARENTPOWER pic.twitter.com/7LyslQAzDb  FestableUK (@FestableUK) June 2, 2018

The event included all the usual festival activities  live music, games and chill-out rooms  with the difference that it was all fully accessible.

Speakers included parents, young people and professionals such as Nigel Ellis, chief executive of the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman and Nigel Evans, who recently retired as the national lead for learners with high needs at Ofsted.

Ms Phillips is well-known for her roles in Smack The Pony, Miranda and Bridget Jones.

She also fronted a BBC documentary titled, A World Without Downs Syndrome?, in which she wades into the emotionally charge debate about a new screening test that is said to detect Downs Syndrome in 99% of pregnancies and explores what effect the test could have on society.

Her latest film, The More You Ignore Me, is due for release in July.

Based on a novel by Jo Brand, the cast includes Sheridan Smith, Ella Hunt, Mark Addy, Sheila Hancock, Ricky Tomlinson, Lisa Stansfield, Tom Davis and Jo Brand.A year ago a white van ploughed into people on London Bridge before three killers carried out a frenzied knife attack in Borough Market, leaving eight dead and dozens injured.

As the nation commemorates the victims of the terror attack, these are the people who lost their lives in the murderous rampage.

Incident at London Bridge

 Canadian Christine Archibald, 30, who lived in The Hague, Holland, died in her fiance Tyler Fergusons arms after being struck by the van on London Bridge.

The social worker was killed by multiple, severe blunt crush injuries.

 James McMullan, 32, from Brent, north-west London, was killed by a haemorrhage after being stabbed in the chest in Borough Market.

He was found lying outside the post office on Borough High Street.

 French national, Alexandre Pigeard, 26, was knifed in the Boro Bistro where he worked as a waiter.

He was found in the shadow of Southwark Cathedral, on Montague Close, with stab wounds to his neck and chest. Mr Pigeard was born in Paris  he had been in London for around two years and lived in Southwark.

 Chef Sebastien Belanger, 36, was drinking at the nearby Boro Bistro when he was stabbed repeatedly in the chest.

Originally from Angers, western France, Mr Belanger had lived in London for several years.

Incident at London Bridge

 Australian nurse Kirsty Boden, 28, from Loxton, ran towards the danger in a selfless bid to save people.

She was also found on Montague Close, with a stab wound to her chest. Colleagues at Guys and St Thomas Hospital in central London described her as one in a million.

 Australian Sara Zelenak, 21, from Brisbane, died after becoming separated from her friend.

The au pair was found in Borough High Street, stabbed in the neck.

 Spanish banker Ignacio Echeverria, 39, from As Pontes, was killed after trying to defend a woman with his skateboard.

The HSBC analyst was knifed in the back on London Bridge.

 The body Xavier Thomas, 45, was recovered from the river near Limehouse in east London, downstream of London Bridge, three days after the attack.

The Frenchman had been visiting London for the weekend with his girlfriend, Christine Delcros, who was struck and seriously injured in the attack.A 1 million painting stolen six years ago has been returned to its owners after it was discovered in a drug dealers den.

The work, by Sir Stanley Spencer and titled Cookham from Englefield, was taken from the Stanley Spencer Gallery, Berkshire, in 2012.

Its whereabouts remained a mystery until police arrested Harry Fisher, 28, in June last year after finding a kilogram of cocaine and 30,000 in cash in his Mercedes.

Officers discovered the artwork under a bed next to three kilograms of cocaine and 15,000 ecstasy tablets when they searched his flat in Kingston-upon-Thames, west London.

British Art & Artists - Painting - Stanley Spencer - Cookham - 1932

A further raid on his family home in Fulham found more Class A drugs, making a total street value of 450,000, and 40,000 in cash.

Fisher was jailed for eight years and eight months at Kingston Crown Court in October, having pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, acquiring criminal property and handling stolen goods, Scotland Yard said.

His passenger at the time of arrest, Zak Lal, 32, of Rochester, Kent, was jailed for five years and eight months after admitting conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, acquiring criminal property and possession of an offensive weapon, police said.

Stolen painting discovery

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said the paintings owners, who were devastated at the loss, were finally reunited with the artwork last month.

Arts Minister Michael Ellis said: Spencer is one our most renowned painters and a true great of the 20th century. It is wonderful that this story has had a happy ending and the painting has been returned to its rightful owners.

Stolen painting discovery

Detective Constable Sophie Hayes, of the Metropolitan Polices art and antiques unit, said: The art and antiques unit was delighted to assist with the recovery and return of this important painting.

The circumstances of its recovery underline the links between cultural heritage crime and wider criminality.

The fact that the painting was stolen five years before it was recovered did not hinder a prosecution for handling stolen goods, demonstrating the Met will pursue these matters wherever possible, no matter how much time has elapsed.

Described by the Stanley Spencer Gallery gallery as one of our greatest British artists, Sir Stanley often used the Berkshire village of Cookham as inspiration for his work during a 45-year career.

He died in 1959.Arlene Foster has threatened to pull out of a deal to prop up Theresa Mays Government if it adopts a Brexit deal that treats Northern Ireland differently from the rest of the UK.

The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader warned that customs parity with Britain was a red line for her party, whose 10 MPs support the Conservatives in Westminster under a supply and demand arrangement.

Cabinet ministers are currently examining ideas to solve the Irish border issue after Britain quits the European Union.

Theresa May and Arlene Foster

One idea reportedly proposed by Brexit Secretary David Davis  and dismissed by Downing Street  would see Northern Ireland covered by a joint regime of UK and EU customs regulations, allowing it to trade freely with both, plus a 10-mile wide special economic zone on the border with Ireland.

But Mrs Foster told Sky News: For us, our only red line is that we are not treated any different from the rest of the United Kingdom, that there are no trade barriers put up between Northern Ireland and our biggest market which, of course, is Great Britain.

Thats what we will judge all of the propositions that are brought forward, we will judge it against that red line and shes very much aware of that, and I have confidence that she knows that she cannot bring forward anything that will breach that red line or we simply will not be able to support them.

Cabinet ministers were last month tasked with analysing the two main options so far put forward for the Irish border, a customs partnership proposal that would see Britain continue to collect tariffs on behalf of the EU and the technology-based maximum facilitation  or max fac  solution. Mr Davis idea was dubbed max fac 2.

Brussels has already rejected both schemes, with chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier saying on Friday that neither was operational or acceptable.

EU leaders including Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar have called for progress by the time the European Council meets at the end of June, with Tanaiste Simon Coveney on Saturday also telling the Irish Times the UK must produce written proposals for the border within the next two weeks.

Ministers on Sunday moved to dismiss reports that civil servants have been drawing up scenarios for a Doomsday Brexit that would leave the country short of medicine, fuel and food.

The Sunday Times said models for mild, severe and Armageddon reactions to no-deal exits were created, with a source saying that even the severe scenario saw the Port of Dover collapse on day one.

We are going to see good progress, says Home Secretary @sajidjavid as he talks about Brexit. #marr pic.twitter.com/AOtjLWvUhD  The Andrew Marr Show (@MarrShow) June 3, 2018

Home Secretary Sajid Javid told the BBCs Andrew Marr Show: I have to say I dont recognise any bit of that at all and as Home Secretary .. I am deeply involved in no deal preparations as much as I am in getting a deal  Im confident we will get a deal.

From the work that I have seen and the analysis that has been done, those outcomes  I dont think any of them would come to pass.

He added that the Government was making progress with Brexit plans, saying: Im confident that as we get to the June council meeting the Prime Minister will have a good set of proposals and our colleagues in Europe will respond positively.

Shadow international trade secretary Barry Gardiner said the Governments refusal to remain in a customs union with the European Union would ensure the UK was a minnow trying to compete against whales on the global stage.

He told Sky News Labours Brexit policy would ensure trade in goods would continue uninterrupted, adding: The Tories red line is actually going to make it much, much more difficult.

Theyre the ones who will be isolated, they will be minnows trying to compete against whales.

They will be a 70 million strong consumer market against Americas 500 million.Two men have been charged with grievous bodily harm with intent after an alleged assault on a man in Belfast, police said.

Police said the incident took place in the Gordon Street area of the city in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Detectives at Musgrave have charged two men (39 & 33) with GB with intent following an assault on a man in the Gordon St area of Belfast on Saturday, 02 June.



Both are due at Belfast MC tomorrow (Monday, 04 June) in relation to this.  Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) June 3, 2018

Detective Sergeant Adam Ruston said a man in his 30s was attacked close to licensed premises shortly after 1.30am.

Belfast assault

The man suffered serious head injuries and was taken to hospital.

The men, aged 39 and 33, were charged on Sunday morning.

They are due before Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday.Thousands of breast cancer patients may be safely spared gruelling chemotherapy following a landmark study.

A trial of more than 10,000 women with the most common form of early breast cancer found the treatment was unnecessary for many after surgery.

The findings will lead to a fundamental change in how the disease is treated, a leading oncologist said, with an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 UK women likely to avoid chemotherapy every year as a result.

Breast cancer study

More than 20,000 women in the UK are diagnosed with hormone-receptor positive, HER2-negative, node-negative breast cancer annually.

Around half of these patients would historically receive chemotherapy after having surgery to remove their tumour, to prevent recurrence of the disease.

However, the results of the TAILORx trial show that only 30% of women with this particular form of early-stage breast cancer benefit from the treatment.

The study, presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting in Chicago, is thought to be the largest breast cancer treatment trial ever conducted.

Dr Alistair Ring, consultant medical oncologist at the Royal Marsden NHS Hospital, in London, said: I think this is a fundamental change in the way we treat women with early-stage breast cancer and will lead to a considerable number of women no longer needing to have chemotherapy.

Charity Breast Cancer Now described the findings as practice-changing.

The TAILORx trial used the Oncotype DX test, currently available on the NHS, which allows doctors to predict the likelihood of the breast cancer returning.

A sample of the tumour is tested after surgery for 21 genetic markers, which indicate if it could grow and spread.

Patients with a recurrence score of up to 10 out of 100 have previously been shown not to benefit from chemotherapy, and instead need only hormone treatment.

Those who score 26 or higher on the scale do benefit and currently receive chemotherapy.

However, there was unclear evidence on whether those who fall in between  the vast majority of patients  needed chemotherapy.

The TAILORx study, led by the Montefiore Medical Centre in New York, found women older than 50 with this form of breast cancer and a score of up to 25 did not need chemotherapy.

Under 50s with a score of up to 15 can also be spared the treatment, according to the research.

Dr Ring said the study would likely have an immediate impact on UK practice and represent a significant shake-up in the treatment of early-stage breast cancer.

It is a significant step because it is about avoiding a treatment that, for most people diagnosed with cancer, is what they all fear being suggested to have, he said.

I, as an oncologist on Monday in clinic, will offer less chemotherapy that will not be of benefit to patients and that is very reassuring to know that when I am offering patients chemotherapy they are likely to benefit from it.

Baroness Delyth Morgan, chief executive of Breast Cancer Now, said: Its fantastic news that this landmark study could now enable thousands more breast cancer patients over 50 to be safely spared gruelling chemotherapy.

This is another significant step towards personalised breast cancer treatment and we hope these practice-changing findings will now help refine our use of chemotherapy on the NHS.

Chemotherapy is an absolute cornerstone of breast cancer treatment, but with the side-effects being almost unbearable for some we must ensure it is only given to those that will benefit from it.

The Oncotype DX genetic test has been available on the NHS since 2013, but the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is currently updating its guidance on whether it should be recommended for use.

Dr Ring said the publication of the trial results was timely, adding: I would be very, very keen that the TAILORX results are incorporated into that evaluation.

Because this is a huge study. Its exactly the sort of study that we need to make decisions about these genomic tests.

Breast Cancer Now also called for NICE to reflect the findings in its guidance.

With the recent consultation on tumour profiling tests having already closed, it is crucial that NICE has the opportunity to consider these results as soon as possible, Baroness Delyth said.

The study of 10,273 women, led by Dr Joseph Sparano, associate director for clinical research at the Montefiore Medical Centre, is published in the New England Journal of Medicine.Egypt's prosecution referred a Lebanese tourist on Sunday to urgent criminal court on charges of "deliberately broadcasting false rumors which aim to undermine society and attack religions," after she harshly criticized the country in a video that went viral on social media.

In an official statement sent to Ahram Online, the general prosecution said it charged Mona Al-Mazbouh with "producing and broadcasting content which is indecent through her personal profile on Facebook."

A Cairo appeals prosecutor has ordered Al-Mazbouh's detention for 15 days pending investigation.

The order comes just one day after the tourist was handed a four-day detention order by Egypt's general prosecutor.

Al-Mazbouh was arrested on Thursday at Cairo International Airport as she was on her way to board a flight out of the country.

The tourist's 10-minute profanity-laden tirade about Egyptians went viral on social media shortly after it was uploaded.



Al-Mazbouh said in the video that her anger towards Egyptians was exacerbated after she suffered verbal harassment by two men on a street in Cairo's affluent Zamalek neighbourhood.

During the video, Al-Mazbouh angrily referred to Egyptians as beggars and con men, and described Egyptian women as "prostitutes."

One day after posting the video, Al-Mazbouh removed the post and uploaded another video where she apologized "only to the respectful" Egyptians that have shown her support, while attacking Facebook users who insulted her through private messages.

Shortly after the video went viral, Egyptian lawyer Amr Abdel-Salam filed a complaint with the prosecutor-general charging Al-Mazbouh with defaming and insulting the Egyptian people in accordance with articles 302 and 308 of the criminal penal code.

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Nine migrants, including six children, have drowned in boat accident off Turkeys Mediterranean coast.

The boat capsized early on Sunday morning near the town of Demre in the southern province of Antalya, according to the Turkish Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard recovered the bodies of nine victims and rescued four others. A fifth migrant was saved by a passing fishing vessel.

Mediterranean migrant crisis

Turkeys state-run Anatolia News Agency reports there were 14-15 people on the vessel, according to the migrants, so authorities were still searching for one unaccounted for person.

The migrants nationalities have not been identified.

At the height of the migrant crisis in 2015, more than 857,000 migrants reached Greece from Turkey. A 2016 deal between Turkey and the European Union has dramatically reduced the numbers of migrants coming into Greece.A Russian Soyuz space capsule carrying three astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS) has returned to Earth.

The capsule landed at 6:39 pm local time (8:39 am ET/2:30 pm BST) on Sunday, descending under a red-and-white parachute.

It is believed that the astronauts returned to Earth with a football that will be used in the first game of the World Cup.

Scroll down for video

Footage emerged last week of Mr Shkaplerov and another cosmonaut playing with the football whilst on-board the ISS (pictured)

Onboard were Russian Anton Shkaplerov, American Scott Tingle and Japan's Norishige Kanai, ending a 168-day mission.

It is thought that Mr Shkaplerov has returned to Earth with the Adidas Telstar 18 that was taken up by Kazakhstan-born Oleg Artemyev in March.

As reported by Tass, the ball will now be taken to Moscow in time for the opening game of the World Cup.

Fifa has yet to confirm these rumours.

Prior to the March launch, Russian media focused on Mr Artemyev taking the football to the orbital laboratory.

He said at a pre-flight news conference: 'We are taking a ball with us.

'Possibly the one that will be used in the first game.'

Footage emerged last week of Mr Shkaplerov and another cosmonaut playing with the football whilst on-board the ISS.

It is believed this ball will now be taken to Moscow in time for the World Cup, where it will be used in the first game of the competition

The three returning astronauts landed near the city of Dzhezkazgan and were all removed from the charred capsule in under half an hour.

Temperatures on reentry exceeded 1,000C (2,000F)

Mr Shkaplerov was lifted out first, followed by Mr Tingle and then Mr Kanai.

The descent to Earth was caught on camera by Russian space agency Roscosmos.

The astronauts rested in lounge-like chairs as their bodies re-adjusted to Earth's gravity after their five and a half month venture in space.

A Russian Soyuz space capsule carrying three astronauts from the International Space Station has landed in the steppes of Kazakhstan. On board were Russian Anton Shkaplerov, American Scott Tingle (pictured) and Japan's Norishige Kanai, ending a 168-day mission

It is believed that Mr Shkaplerov has returned to Earth with the football taken up by Kazakhstan-born Oleg Artemyev in March

The capsule landed at 6:39pm local time on Sunday without apparent problems, descending under a red-and-white parachute

'We're feeling well,' Mr Shkaplerov said to the surrounding media ensemble.

'A bit tired, at the same time we're proud to have accomplished (our mission) and glad to be back on Earth. We're glad that the weather is beautiful. The landing was quote-unquote "soft."'

The orbiting laboratory now has a crew of three  Americans Drew Feustel and Ricky Arnold and Russian Oleg Artemyev.

Another three astronauts are to be launched to the station on Wednesday.

Mr Shkaplerov was lifted out first, followed by American Scott Tingle and Mr Kanai (pictured) the last man to be removed from the Soyuz capsule.

The Russian Soyuz capsule was blackened by its fiery reentry but landed without any dramatics in Kazakhstan. The orbiting laboratory now has a crew of three  Americans Drew Feustel and Ricky Arnold and Russian Oleg ArtemyevPolice in Berlin have opened fire on a man who was allegedly causing a disturbance near the citys cathedral, wounding him in the legs.

A Berlin police spokesman described the wounded man as a hooligan but did not provide details about the circumstances of the shooting or his actions.

Germany Berlin Shooting

Amateur video showed heavy police activity in the area of the Protestant cathedral, located in the centre of Germanys capital.A 27-year old man has been charged with the murder of a father-of-four at a pub in Co Cork.

Michael Mike Dineen, with an address of Ard Mhuileann, Ballinwillan in Mitchelstown, appeared before a special sitting of Mallow District Court on Sunday afternoon charged in connection with the death of Patrick (Paddy) ODonnell.

Mr ODonnell, of Stag Park, Ballindangan Road in Mitchelstown, died after an alleged assault in the town on Friday at around 11pm.

Garda stock

The 36-year-old was socialising at Willie Andies pub at New Square when the incident happened. He died at the scene.

A post-mortem examination on his body was carried out at Cork University Hospital on Sunday.A doctor who attended the London Bridge attack paid tribute to a colourful colleague killed in the rampage.

John Chatterjee said the one-year anniversary was particularly emotional as he had seen nurse Kirsty Boden at work during the day.

The consultant, who works at Guys Hospital in London Bridge, said: She was always very colourful, very, very professional and really good at her job.

I remember seeing her that morning but I didnt get a chance to speak to her. I only found out what happened the following morning.

Today has been a challenging time for me personally.

The victims of the London Bridge terrorist attack

Australian Ms Boden, 28, was one of eight killed during the carnage on London Bridge and Borough Market on June 3 last year.

Mr Chatterjee, who was speaking at the site as floral tributes were left in remembrance, also works for the air ambulance and rushed to the scene in that capacity.

Mike Christian, the clinical lead for Essex and Herts air ambulance, was also called into action.

He said: When I arrived streams of people were coming off the bridge, lots of people were helping, carrying injured people, giving CPR. It was amazing to see.

One year on we remember the victims of the London Bridge terror attack, including two brave Australians, Sara Zelenak and Kirsty Boden. We continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the UK in the fight against terrorism. #LondonUnited  Malcolm Turnbull  (@TurnbullMalcolm) June 3, 2018

Today was my first time walking over the bridge since then, it was very surreal.

I could see vivid images of where people were lying in this job you see some of the most difficult things.

We have to recognise talking about it is one of the most important things to do.

A group of nurses who treated the wounded also attended the remembrance event.

Hannah Branford, who works at Kings College Hospital, said she had tried to forget some of the horror but the emotion of the day had opened up some scars.Irelands deputy premier has led tributes to the late peacemaker Bill Flynn, describing him as a giant of Irish-America.

Simon Coveney tweeted that it was with sadness that he learned of Mr Flynns death.

A prominent supporter of the peace process, Mr Flynn died in the US on Saturday, aged 92.

Bill Flynn

Mr Coveney said Mr Flynn was a key figure in US support for peace on the island of Ireland.

I learned with sadness of death of Bill Flynn, a giant of Irish America + key figure in US support for peace on the island of Ireland. He showed real leadership in mobilising Irish American support for peace. Very proud of his contribution. Our thoughts with his family + friends.  Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) June 3, 2018

Mr Coveney wrote: He showed real leadership in mobilising Irish American support for peace. Very proud of his contribution.

He added: Our thoughts with his family and friends.

Mr Flynn was the first Irish-American chairman of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, the group that issued the invitation to former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams to speak in the US in the 1990s.

Bill Flynn "A Champion of Peace in Ireland" - Gerry Adams TD https://t.co/gVb7rPzweM

I have known Bill Flynn for more than 25 years. We first met in Belfast after Bill had organised and funded a peace conference in Derry in 1992 called Beyond Hate. pic.twitter.com/6cQbMTHfq0  Gerry Adams (@GerryAdamsSF) June 3, 2018

Mr Adams expressed his sympathies to the family on the death of a man he called his good friend Bill Flynn.

I want to extend my sincerest condolences and solidarity to Peggy Flynn and the Flynn family, he said.

He was one of Americas foremost business leaders, as well as a patron of great causes in support of humanitarian, civil liberties and health issues.

He added: In Ireland and among Irish Americans, he is also one of those, along with Niall ODowd, Chuck Feeney and Bruce Morrison, who played a pivotal role in creating the conditions for the IRA cessation in August 1994, and in opening up political support in the USA for the Irish peace process.

Mr Adams said he had known Mr Flynn for more than 25 years.

In 1994 he arranged for the National Committee on American Foreign Policy to organise a conference on Ireland to which I was invited, Mr Adams said.

I applied for a visa which was eventually agreed and I received a 48 hour restricted visa to New York.

It was a key moment in the efforts for peace.

Sinn Fein President @MaryLouMcDonald TD speaks on death of Bill Flynn https://t.co/AhTLbUPlkP pic.twitter.com/494ZCbxwIB  Sinn Fein (@sinnfeinireland) June 3, 2018

Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald also paid tribute to Mr Flynn.

Ms McDonald said Mr Flynn made sure that he reached out to all those affected by the conflict and forged relationships with people from the Unionist and Loyalist backgrounds.

His commitment to peace in Ireland remained till his death, she said.

Ms McDonald added that Mr Flynn would be missed both in America and in Ireland.

Born in New York, Mr Flynns parents came from counties Mayo and Down.

A graduate of Fordham University, he received a CBE for his exceptional contribution to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.The nation has remembered victims of the London Bridge terror attack with a minutes silence.

A memorial event was held near the scene one year on from the atrocity which killed eight innocent people, with friends and families laying flowers as the names of the dead were read aloud.

Hundreds  including Prime Minister Theresa May, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick  lined streets around Southwark Needle as grieving families hugged and wiped away tears following a service at Southwark Cathedral on Sunday.

The moment marked one year since three jihadists drove a van into pedestrians on London Bridge before stabbing revellers in nearby Borough Market with 12-inch ceramic knives.

Khuram Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30, and Youssef Zaghba, 22, who wore fake suicide vests, were shot dead by police just eight minutes after the first emergency call.

A doctor who tended to victims remembered a colourful colleague killed in the rampage, saying the anniversary was particularly emotional as he had seen her at work that day.

Consultant John Chatterjee, who works at Guys Hospital, paid tribute to Australian nurse Kirsty Boden, 28, saying: She was always very colourful, very, very professional and really good at her job.

Bishop of Southwark Christopher Chessun, left, and Imam Mohammad Yazdani Raza

I remember seeing her that morning but I didnt get a chance to speak to her. I only found out what happened the following morning.

Today has been a challenging time for me personally.

Dr Chatterjee and Mike Christian were both on duty for Londons Air Ambulance on the night, with Dr Christian adding: Today was my first time walking over the bridge since then, it was very surreal.

I could see vivid images of where people were lying in this job you see some of the most difficult things.

We have to recognise talking about it is one of the most important things to do.

Today we remember those who died in the London Bridge attack and the many more who were injured, as we pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened and came to the aid of others.  PM @theresa_may  UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) June 3, 2018

Many emergency service staff were in attendance, including British Transport Police officer Wayne Marques, who suffered major injuries after fighting off the terrorists with only his baton.

The 39-year-old is to be afforded a special honour when a corbel, a type of structural stone, bearing a likeness of his face is placed in the north quire aisle of the cathedral.

Dignitaries including Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Home Secretary Sajid Javid were invited to lay flowers alongside people injured in the attacks.

A floral wreath from Mrs May read: We will never forget those who died and will never surrender to hatred and division.

Note from Sadiq Khan

Mr Khans tribute read: Our city will never forget you. We stand united against terrorism and together in remembering the innocent lives lost.

A service of commemoration was held at the cathedral earlier on Sunday, with family members lighting candles in memory of loved ones who died.

Dean of Southwark Cathedral Andrew Nunn told the 700-strong congregation: I hope it helps our healing.

Whatever your hopes are, whatever your pain is, whatever has kept you awake at night, whatever anger, sorrow or guilt you are feeling: God is here for you.

Love is stronger than hate, light is stronger than darkness and life is stronger than death.

It was true a year ago. It is as true today.

An olive tree is planted in the grounds of Southwark Cathedral

Following the service an olive tree  known as the Tree of Healing  was planted in the cathedral grounds using compost from flowers left on the bridge after the murders last year.

Ahead of the days commemorative events, the Prime Minister recalled stories of courage which emerged from the attack.

She described it as a cowardly attempt to strike at the heart of our freedoms by deliberately targeting people enjoying their Saturday night with friends and family.

Mrs May said: Today we remember those who died and the many more who were injured, and also pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened or came to the aid of others.

The victims of the London Bridge terrorist attack

The many stories of courage demonstrated that night will always stay with me  such as Ignacio Echeverria, who died after confronting the terrorists with the only thing he had, his skateboard, and Geoff Ho, who spent almost two weeks in hospital after being stabbed in the neck as he shielded his friends.

Those killed in the attack were Canadian Christine Archibald, 30, James McMullan, 32, from Hackney, Frenchmen Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sebastien Belanger, 36 and Xavier Thomas, 45, Australians Kirsty Boden, 28 and Sara Zelenak 21, and Spaniard Mr Echeverria, 39.American duo Sloane Stephens and Madison Keys reached the French Open quarter-finals for the first time.

But second seed Caroline Wozniacki is in danger of being knocked out in the fourth round.

Stephens, who beat Keys in last years US Open final, hammered Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 6-2 6-0 in just 52 minutes.

She said: A personal milestone for myself was getting to the quarters, obviously doing well here fourth round a lot of the years in a row. So I think that was something big for me, which is great.

But hopefully it doesnt end here. Youve got to keep going. I would like to keep going. When I came into the tournament, I wasnt thinking oh, make quarter-finals. I was just thinking day to day, like, lets try to figure it out.

I have figured it out pretty well the last couple matches so Im going to keep doing that.

Stephens will meet the winner of the clash between Wozniacki and 21-year-old Russian Daria Kasatkina.

Caroline Wozniacki

is looking for back-to-back grand slams after breaking her duck at the Australian Open in January.

But she has her work cut out to make it to the last eight having dropped the first set against Kasatkina, a former junior champion at Roland Garros.

Wozniacki had lost just four games in her previous two matches but Kasatkina took the early initiative with a break in the third game.

Can Kasatkina make her mark on the terre battue? The Russian takes the opening set off world No.2 Wozniacki 7-6(5).



: https://t.co/xXHXpcPNKw pic.twitter.com/umwukZ0v5t  Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 3, 2018

The Dane hit back twice, only for the youngster to break her once again and force a tie-break.

Wozniacki flung her racket to the ground after giving away a set point and then punched a forehand out to compound her anger.

She began complaining about the light after the first set, and at 3-3 in the second the match referee relented and let the players leave the court.

.@Madison_Keys is the 13th active player to have reached the quarterfinals at every Grand Slam.



All the best  from @rolandgarros Day 8 --> https://t.co/niL3kCdPIE pic.twitter.com/opxzZXcIPU  wta (@WTA) June 3, 2018

Keys secured her first appearance in the last eight after dispatching Romanias Mihaela Buzarnescu 6-1 6-4 in an hour and five minutes.

She will meet Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan, who pulled off a surprise by knocking out Czech 26th seed Barbora Strycova 6-4 .By Sarah Marsh and Nelson Acosta

HAVANA, June 2 (Reuters) - Cuba's national assembly is set on Saturday to begin the long-awaited reform of its constitution to give legal backing to the Communist-run island's economic and social opening while upholding the "irrevocable nature of socialism".

The most salient point on the agenda of its extraordinary session is the approval of the commission that will draft what is expected to be the broadest update of the constitution since it was first adopted in 1976 during the Cold War.

Former President Raul Castro first announced the need for a new constitution in 2011 after embarking on a series of reforms cautiously opening up the economy to foreign investment and the private sector in order to make Cuban socialism sustainable.

Some clauses in the current constitution, such as one forbidding Cubans from "obtaining income that comes from exploiting the work of others", are at odds with those changes.

"Cuba has to make substantial changes to the constitution that endorse private property, self employment and cooperatives as part of the Cuban economy," said Julio Perez, a political analyst and former news editor at state-run Radio Habana.

"Politically, it will have to affirm that presidents will be elected for five years and can only can be re-elected for another five."

Term and age limits are among the various measures to strengthen Cuba's political institutions proposed by Castro, 86, who handed the presidency over to his 58-year old protege Miguel Diaz-Canel in April after two five-year terms.

The constitution was last changed in 2002 to make socialism "irrevocable" in Cuba. During the transfer of power, Castro said the definition of the Communist Party as the guiding force of Cuba would not be changed in the rewrite of the constitution.

Castro will remain party chief until 2021.

His daughter, Mariela Castro, director of the Center of Sexual Education, said in May she is also campaigning for the new constitution to acknowledge same-sex marriage.

Cuba, which discriminated against homosexuals in the early years after the 1959 revolution, has come a long way in terms of gay rights in recent years, for example approving and funding sex-change operations.

Once the constitutional draft is ready, it is slated to be discussed first by the parliament and then by the broader population, before being submitted to a referendum.

Prior to 2002, the constitution was amended in 1992 to make it a secular rather than atheist state, and in 1978 to rename the Isle of Pines the Isle of Youth.

The extraordinary session of the national assembly, which usually meets just twice a year in December and July, is scheduled to start at 10 ET (1400 GMT). It will also discuss the pilot project in the Artemisa and Mayabeque provinces for reform of local government and state business administration. (Reporting by Sarah Marsh; editing by Diane Craft)By Feisal Omar and Abdi Sheikh

MOGADISHU, June 2 (Reuters) - Somalia's militant Islamist group al Shabaab has retaken a small town in the centre of the country after it was abandoned by government troops, residents said on Saturday.

Fighting broke out in the town of Muqokori, about 300 kilometres north of the capital Mogadishu, late on Friday, almost a month after government troops ousted the insurgents.

"Al Shabaab attacked from various sides. After one hour of fighting, the government forces left and al Shabaab seized control," Hussein Nur, a local elder, told Reuters by phone.

The militant group claimed that 47 government soldiers had died in the fighting.

"We have their dead bodies," said Abdiasis Abu Musab, al Shabaab's military operations spokesman, adding they had captured four vehicles and dozens of weapons.

The military said the insurgents were not in full control. and that soldiers had been withdrawn for strategic reasons.

"There were only a few soldiers there and they left the town for tactical reasons," Major Abdullahi Aden told Reuters, adding their positions were being reinforced.

Aden did not give details of casualties.

Al Shabaab militants are fighting to topple Somalia's Western-backed central government and to rule the Horn of Africa country according to a strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law.

The group was ejected from Mogadishu in 2011 and has since been driven from most of its other strongholds across the country.

But it remains a formidable threat, with its fighters frequently carrying out bombings against civilian and military targets in Mogadishu and other towns in Somalia.

Separately, the group also attacked a military base in the semi-autonomous region of Puntland the same day, killing several soldiers. (Additional reporting by Abdiqani Hassan; Editing by Aaron Maasho and Andrew Bolton)By Aaron Maasho

ADDIS ABABA, June 2 (Reuters) - Ethiopia's parliament is set to lift a six-month state of emergency two months early, after the cabinet approved a draft law that said calm has been restored, an official said.

The government imposed emergency rule in February, a day after Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn resigned amid popular unrest and division within the ruling coalition.

Since then, the authorities have pledged to push through a raft of reforms that have included the release of thousands of prisoners.

Abiy Ahmed, a former army officer who replaced Hailemariam as premier, has travelled to several areas of the country, promising to address grievances strengthen a range of political and civil rights.

On Saturday, the cabinet of ministers met to assess the security situation and "noted that law and order has been restored", Abiy's Chief of Staff Fitsum Arega said on Twitter.

"The draft will be sent to parliament for its consideration," he added.

Ethiopia's 547-seat House of People's Representatives often holds its sessions on Monday. Its legislators - all members of the ruling party - are expected to endorse the move.

The government has twice imposed emergency rule to contain violence that broke out mainly in Oromiya province, the country's most populous region, since 2015.

The unrest was provoked by a development scheme for the capital Addis Ababa that critics said would lead to land seizures in nearby Oromiya. Broader anti-government demonstrations later spread. (Editing by Peter Graff)By Julien Pretot

PARIS, June 2 (Reuters) - The home contingent suffered the grim reality of familiar failure at Roland Garros when the remaining big hopes in the men's draw were dumped out of the French Open on Saturday, although they did bow out in contrasting fashion.

Richard Gasquet had virtually no chance against claycourt machine Rafa Nadal and was demolished, while Gael Monfils wasted four match points in a five-set defeat by Belgian David Goffin.

French number one Lucas Pouille was also sent packing after going down in straight sets, albeit having put up moe of a fight than Gasquet, against hard-hitting Russian Karen Khachanov.

Only 87th ranked Pierre-Hugues Herbert still has a chance of reaching the last 16 but he faces ninth-seeded American John Isner later on Saturday.

If he fails, it will be the first time since 2007 that there will be no Frenchman in the fourth round competing for the Musketeers Cup, which was last lifted by a local player in 1983 when Yannick Noah beat Mats Wilander.

Monfils came closest with match points in the fourth set, but on each occasion eighth seed Goffin served perfectly and survived to set up a decider, which he won easily as his French opponent appeared to lose his focus.

Monfils at least had the excuse of coming back to the circuit from injury only a month ago.

MENTAL PROBLEMS

The 15th-seeded Pouille was supposed to be in perfect shape but looked exhausted after two sets against Khachanov, who won 6-3 7-5 6-3 in another rain-interrupted match for the Frenchman.

"Physically there were no problems," said Pouille. "It's rather mental. I played late, I played long matches and it's a shame that I wasn't able to conclude over one day a single match.

"I think that I'm putting a lot of pressure (on myself), and it's hard for me to actually unfold my game. But I don't have a true explanation."

On Friday, Gilles Simon was clueless against Japan's Kei Nishikori, losing 6-3 6-1 6-3 without putting up a decent fight.

Gasquet at least could hide behind the fact that he was facing the best claycourt player of all time in top seed Nadal, losing 6-3 6-2 6-2 to his old friend.

He did, however, lose the first 12 points of the match on Court Philippe Chatrier.

"His forehand comes out very strongly. I started badly. I didn't have many focal points on the court," said Gasquet.

"But whatever. He was stronger than I was." (Reporting by Julien Pretot; Editing by Ken Ferris)PARIS, June 2 (Reuters) - Marin Cilic brought out his A-game to swiftly dispatch hapless American Steve Johnson 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the third round of the French Open on Saturday.

The Croatian third seed whipped nine aces and 35 winners past Johnson to reach the last 16 for the fifth time in 12 visits.

Those fans packed into the intimate Court One bullring might have hoped for a longer contest than the 94-minute drubbing but the Croatian made sure not everyone went away disappointed.

One fan in the stands was left buzzing with excitement after Cilic handed over a neatly folded official towel as a memento.

Cilic will next face Italian showman Fabio Fognini for a place in the quarter-finals.

(Reporting by Pritha Sarkar, editing by Ken Ferris)By Deisy Buitrago and Andrew Cawthorne

CARACAS, June 2 (Reuters) - Venezuela was freeing a second group of jailed opponents of President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday after admonishing them for alleged violent crimes against the socialist government.

The releases followed Maduro's re-election at a poll last month that was condemned by Western nations as a farce cementing an autocracy in the South American OPEC member.

Casting them as a peace gesture, the government said 40 activists were being released on Saturday, after 39 were freed on Friday.

Many had participated in protests against Maduro in 2014 and 2017 that turned violent killing around 170 people.

Campaigners say the government inflated the list of releases by adding the names of some people who had already been freed and others who are not political prisoners. Local rights group Penal Forum said only 39 activists were among the total freed over the two days.

The best-known among Saturday's releases were politicians Wilmer Azuaje and Gilber Caro, plus Raul Baduel, the son of a dissident former general, opposition sources said.

"I am so happy, so grateful to God, that this day has come because after more than a year my family reunites," Azuaje's wife Kelly told Reuters. "The battle goes on for all the other separated families, for Venezuela, for a better future."

Foes of Maduro say the releases, while welcome, are insufficient given another roughly 300 people are in jail on what the opposition says are trumped up charges intended to stifle dissent.

Some of those released on Saturday were paraded stony-faced at the colonial-era Yellow House that is home to the Foreign Ministry in Caracas.

"We require from you a commitment to abandoning political violence, hatred and intolerance forever," senior official Delcy Rodriguez told them in video broadcast on state TV.

Friday's releases included Angel Rivas, a former army general famous for taking to the roof of his home with an assault rifle in defiance of an arrest warrant, and Daniel Ceballos, former mayor of the restive city of San Cristobal.

"Death to tyranny, long live liberty!" Vivas said as he left jail late on Friday, before adding that the terms of his release prohibited him from speaking further to media.

Supporters surrounded his car, singing the national anthem.

The releases have not included militant opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez, the best known of Maduro's detained critics.

He was one of two popular rivals to Maduro who were barred from standing as candidates in the May 20 election.

Decried by opponents as a dictator who has wrecked a once-prosperous economy, Maduro says he is victim of an "economic war" and coup plots by a U.S.-backed opposition.

He bristles at the term political prisoners, saying all detainees are there on legitimate charges and convictions, including terrorism.

The released activists all had various conditions placed on their freedom, including a requirement to report to authorities every month, and a prohibition on going abroad or using social media.

"They should never have been in prison," opposition leader Julio Borges said of Saturday's releases via Twitter. "There is nothing to thank the dictatorship for." (Reporting by Deisy Buitrago and Andrew Cawthorne; Writing by Andrew Cawthorne; Editing by Diane Craft and Daniel Wallis)Silk rail route to Europe makes big impact on shipping merchandise

Since mid-November 2017 goods from 35 cities of China were exported to 34 cities in 12 European countries.

Goods are sent to Europe weekly from industrial cities such as Chengdu, Chongqing, Xian, Langzhou and Yiwu by freight trains

If shipped it would take 30 days to reach Europe; sent by train European markets could be reached within 14 days.

Silk Road is the road that Chinese in the past used to trade with outside world. Ancient Silk Road comprised of land routes and sea routes. It has a history of more than 2,000 years. Chinese merchandise was sent to Central Asia, Middle East and African countries and Europe through these routes.

During the old days, Chinese caravans carried goods, such as tea and silk to ancient trading centres in Central Asia, where they were exchanged with foreign counterparts for spices, furs and other products.

The main objective of this article is to expound the expansion of train service between China and Europe under the new Silk Road project. Part of the Belt and Road Initiative, the rail network to Europe is expanding through these main routes.

The third one is central route that runs through Ereenhot Port in Inner Mongolia

autonomous region.

The Chinese manufactured computers, smartphones, textile, home appliances, etc. are exported to Europe through these land routes. If these products are shipped it would take 30 days to reach Europe but if they are sent by train, European markets could be reached within 14 days.

Since mid-November 2017 goods from 35 cities of China were exported to 34 cities in 12 European countries. Goods are sent to Europe weekly from industrial cities such as Chengdu, Chongqing, Xian, Langzhou and Yiwu by freight trains.

In fact, Chongqing has become the busiest cargo freight route between China and Europe.

Every one out of three laptops produced in the world now comes from Chongqing.

"Chinese manufactured computers, smartphones, textile home appliances etc. are exported to Europe through these land routes. "



In addition to that this city has become the main centre, that exports coffee to Europe. Coffee, grown in Yunan Province, is exported to Europe from this city. Due to the high demand, coffee is imported from countries of the Asian region and exported to Europe from Chongquing.

It is reported that millions of tonnes of coffee was imported to this city from Vietnam and Indonesia.

Xian is another city connected to Europe by train. It occupied an important place in ancient Silk Route. Sending goods by train from this city to Warsaw in Poland, Hamburg in Germany and Budapest in Hungary have commenced since recently.

The city of Yiwu has become world famous because of its Christmas decorations. Many foreigners live here and conduct their trade activities.

Most trains that take goods to Europe commence its journey from here carrying of clothing, shoes and assorted Christmas items. The train service that commenced between Yiwu and England last year too is quite popular today.

This service has become a boon to the small-scale industries in Yiwu. Another popular service is Yiwu to Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic.

Last September a train went to Prague from Yiwu loaded with 88 containers of clothing, shoes, hats and assorted Christmas items.

"Today the European countries have become the beneficiaries of this train service. Countries like Spain, Germany, England and Italy are the countries that enjoy the most benefits of this train service. These countries export their merchandise to China, which has a market well over 1.3 b people."



Today the European countries have become the beneficiaries of this train service. Countries like Spain, Germany, England and Italy are the countries that enjoy the most benefits of this train service. These countries export their merchandise to China, which has a market well over 1.3 b people.

Benz and BMW, which are considered hallmarks of Germanys motor industry, too sent their products to China by train.

The Belt and Road Initiative will bring Scotch whisky a symbol of national pride of Scotland to the vast Chinese market. In addition to that Wines made in Italy and Spain now come to the Chinese market in double quick time due to this rail service. European products such as milk powder, cheese, butter, arrive at the Chinese markets creating a much-desired income to European farmers.

The Life Chain of Supermarkets providing both online and offline sales has opened seven stores in Xian as a beneficiary to the railway line sporting goods directly from Europe.

Now, Yiwu local government plans to set up a trading centre in Yiwu to exhibit Czech products to Chinese customers.

Czech crystal glasses and trays are very popular in China.President Maithripala Sirisena has reportedly told the Central Committee of his Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) that the party had to endure a dismal performance at the local polls only due to its political alignment with the United National Party (UNP).

He said everybody should give it a thought.

The President who addressed the party said all the major parties had been hit by factionalism.

"Nobody can single out a party unaffected by internal squabbles," he said.

He said the SLFP had been affected by division right from its heydays during the time of the late Prime Minister S.W.R.D.Bandaranaike.(Kelum Bandara)Twenty-six nations including Sri Lanka, will participate at the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC), the world's largest international maritime exercise, scheduled between June 27 to Aug. 2, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.

This is the first time Sri Lanka is participating in RIMPAC.

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command reported that 47 surface ships, five submarines, 18 national land forces, and more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel will participate in the exercise.

As the world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity designed to foster and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's interconnected oceans. RIMPAC 2018 is the 26th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

The theme of RIMPAC 2018 is "Capable, Adaptive, Partners." Participating nations and forces will exercise a wide range of capabilities and demonstrate the inherent flexibility of maritime forces. These capabilities range from disaster relief and maritime security operations to sea control and complex warfighting. The relevant, realistic training program includes amphibious operations, gunnery, missile, anti-submarine and air defense exercises, as well as counter-piracy operations, mine clearance operations, explosive ordnance disposal, and diving and salvage operations.

This year's exercise includes forces from Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam.

This is the first time Brazil, Israel, Sri Lanka and Vietnam are participating in RIMPAC. Additional firsts include New Zealand serving as sea combat commander and Chile serving as combined force maritime component commander. This is the first time a non-founding RIMPAC nation (Chile) will hold a component commander leadership position. This year will also feature live firing of a Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) from a U.S. Air Force aircraft, surface to ship missiles by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and a Naval Strike Missile (NSM) from a launcher on the back of a Palletized Load System (PLS) by the U.S. Army. This marks the first time a land based unit will participate in the live fire event during RIMPAC. RIMPAC 18 will also include international band engagements and highlight fleet innovation during an Innovation Fair.

Additionally, for the first time since RIMPAC 2002, U.S. 3rd Fleet's Command Center will relocate from San Diego to Pearl Harbor to support command and control of all 3rd Fleet forces in 3rd Fleet's area of responsibility to include forces operating forward in the Western Pacific. The Fleet Command Center will be established at a deployable joint command and control on Hospital Point for the first part of the exercise and then transition to USS Portland (LPD 27) for the remainder of the exercise.

Hosted by Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, RIMPAC 2018 will be led by Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, Vice Adm. John D. Alexander, who will serve as combined task force (CTF) commander. Royal Canadian Navy Rear Adm. Bob Auchterlonie will serve as CTF deputy commander, and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Rear Adm. Hideyuki Oban as CTF vice commander. Fleet Marine Force will be led by U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Mark Hashimoto. Other key leaders of the multinational force will include Commodore Pablo Niemann of Armada de Chile, who will command the maritime component, and Air Commodore Craig Heap of the Royal Australian Air Force, who will command the air component.

This robust constellation of allies and partners support sustained and favorable regional balances of power that safeguard security, prosperity and the free and open international order. RIMPAC 2018 contributes to the increased lethality, resiliency and agility needed by the joint and combined force to deter and defeat aggression by major powers across all domains and levels of conflict.A ceremony to mark the introduction of SuttaCentral.net to Sri Lanka was held on May 31 at the Nelum Pokuna with the blessings of the Maha Sangha and Ven. Ajahn Sujato.

Venerable Ajahn Sujato

The world is afflicted by death and decay. But the wise do not grieve, having realized the nature of the world.  Gautama Buddha

Perhaps it is this knowledge that fuels the desire of more and more people across the world to seek the wisdom of Buddhism.

In fact, research conducted by the Pew Research Centre in 2015 revealed the number of Buddhists, around the world, is expected to increase from 488 million to about 511 million between 2010 and 2030.

The research points towards verity, that people across the world are more aware of and interested in Buddhism.

These developments are evidently the culmination of efforts by enthusiasts, who toil to impart the wisdom of the Buddha. Since its introduction to the island in the 3rd century BC, Buddhism has withstood turbulent times, including a struggle to revive the religion during the times of colonial endorsement of other religions.

Despite evidence to suggest Buddhist links between the ancient Greeks through the Middle Ages, it was the labour of Western scholars and philosophers that shed light on Buddhism in the West.

The Western world had little or no awareness about what unifying wisdom or spirituality linked countries stretching from Sri Lanka to China. Max Muller, Alexander Cunningham, Eugene Burnouf, Rhys-Davids and Arthur Schopenhauer were some of the key figures who changed Western thinking and delved into oriental studies, which ultimately led to the search of Buddhist knowledge in the West.

"The objective of this website is to remove any obstruction or barrier of understanding the Buddhas teachings. It is also freely available to anyone who seeks the wisdom of Buddhism, free of charge"



Along came figures such as the Irishman Laurence Carroll who was ordained in Burma as Venerable Dhammaloka and campaigned against the colonial powers on behalf of the Burmese. Henry Steel Olcott, a Buddhist modernist is revered for his labours in interpreting Buddhism through a Westernised lens and for leading the Buddhist revival in Ceylon.

Today Sri Lanka is set to be introduced to SuttaCentral, an online platform containing early Buddhist texts including a vast collection of teachings attributed to the Buddha and his earliest disciples. www.suttacentral.net contains the traditional texts known as the Thripitaka or Three Baskets, which are regarded as sacred canon in all schools of Buddhism.

SuttaCentral hosts the texts in original languages  especially Pali - as well as translations in 40 languages, including Sinhala.

Unique to SuttaCentral, however, are the comparisons and parallels, which illustrate the relationship between these collections, said the Public Liaison for SuttaCentral, Deepika Weerakoon.

The objective of this website is to remove any obstruction or barrier of understanding the Buddhas teachings. It is also freely available to anyone who seeks the wisdom of Buddhism, free of charge, she added.



The principal founding member of this platform is Venerable Ajahn Sujato, hailing from Australia. Born Anthony Best, to a liberal Catholic family in Perth, he left a promising career as a musician after travelling to Thailand, where he discovered the forest tradition of Ven. Ajahn Chah.

It is commonly known in the West as the Thai Forest Tradition; a lineage of Theravada Buddhist monasticism. The tradition is distinguished from other Buddhist traditions by its doctrinal emphasis of the notion that the mind precedes the world.

Ven. Ajahn Sujato took higher ordination in 1994. He spent his years in Thailand in monasteries and remote hermitages, where he learned in depth of the practices of loving-kindness or Metta. Upon his return to Australia, he not only founded the Santi Forest Monastery in New South Wales but also penned several guides including the A Swift Pair of Messengers and A History of Mindfulness.

One of his most important interests, however, is the development of SuttaCentral.net since its founding in 2004. Ven. Ajahn Sujato invested almost 15 years on the development of SuttaCentral, said Deepika.

"A new translation of the four Pali volumes or Nikayasis made available through SuttaCentral created under the guidance of Ven. Ajahn Sujato. Oral traditions of Buddhism were once recorded in ancient texts to preserve the teachings of Lord Buddha. Ven. Ajahn Sujato has converted these to the modern languages of our time to make the teachings of Buddhism more accessible."



His tireless efforts have brought together a team of international scholars to bring Lord Buddhas teachings from diverse traditions under one platform, which can be accessed from anywhere in the world. This is not a Government funded effort. This project was funded by the people. It is heartening to know that people reach out to us in search of Dhamma as we have an average of 2,000 visitors to the site every day, from all over the world, she added.

A ceremony to mark the introduction of SuttaCentral (www.suttacentral.net) to Sri Lanka was held on May 31 at the Nelum Pokuna in collaboration with the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress with the blessings of the Maha Sangha and Ven. Ajahn Sujato.

The main purpose of this event is to promote to the Sri Lankan general public how to conveniently access and apply the teachings of the Buddha as a daily habit, Deepika explained. The ceremony was marked by a chanting of the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, followed by a sermon by Ven.

Ajahn Sujato.

SuttaCentral, an online platform containing early Buddhist texts including a vast collection of teachings attributed to the Buddha

SuttaCentral.net contains the traditional texts known as the Thripitaka regarded as sacred canon in all schools of Buddhism.

Not a Government funded effort. This project is funded by the people.



As their latest project, a new translation of the four Pali volumes or Nikayas is made available through SuttaCentral created under the guidance of Ven. Ajahn Sujato. Oral traditions of Buddhism were once recorded in ancient texts to preserve the teachings of Lord Buddha. Ven. Ajahn Sujato has converted these to the modern languages of our time to make the teachings of Buddhism more accessible.

The contents of four volumes will be indexed by search engines so that the contents will appear in Google search results while the URL previews such as on Twitter, Facebook are also available.

The translations emphasise on accuracy and clarity and make navigation easy with the clear and easy guidance.

It also gives us a way of reliably and consistently referencing the Pali text at a granular level, something that has never before been possible. With cutting-edge progressive web applications and technologies, the platform is ideal for anyone seeking to start a journey towards mindfulness.Social Solidarity Minister Ghada Wali requested parliament approve a 15 percent increase in pensions on Sunday, according to Al-Ahram Arabic website.

"The government is working to increase pensions by 15 percent, with a minimum increase of EGP 125, so the lower limit would increase from EGP 500 to EGP 750," she stated, adding that the increase, equal to EGP 23.5 billion, will be funded by the treasury.

Wali requested that the House of Representatives approve an increase from EGP 500 per month to EGP 750.

"The 15 percent increase gives people with low pensions some privilege," she added.

There are 7.3 million Egyptian citizens benefiting from pensions in the country, Egypt's minister of social solidarity told the House of Representatives.

Wali was speaking in parliament for the discussion of the state budget for the new fiscal year that begins on 1 July.

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Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi met with Sudanese intelligence chief Salah Gosh in Cairo on Sunday for discussions about boosting bilateral relations.

According to the Egyptian presidents office, Gosh passed on congratulations from Sudans President Omar Al-Bashir to El-Sisi on his second term in office, which began on Saturday.

El-Sisi was sworn-in in front of parliament in a ceremony on Saturday morning.

El-Sisi expressed his appreciation for Al-Bashir and the Sudanese people, and said he hoped for success in the efforts made to achieve development and stability in both Egypt and Sudan.

The president and the Sudanese official also discussed the latest regional developments.

The meeting was attended by the head of Egypt's General Intelligence Directorate Abbas Kamel.

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Michael Hurley is completing a voyage from France to the Caribbean to North America with a first mate who is engaged to be his wife

A novelist who was twice rescued at sea has sailed 7,000 trouble-free miles and envisions a storybook ending to his journey.

Michael Hurley is completing a voyage from France to the Caribbean to North America with a first mate who is engaged to be his wife. Then he's embarking on a new adventure by putting his boat into storage, getting married and moving to England.

The 60-year-old Hurley, who sold his North Carolina law firm so he could sail and write, has traveled far since he was plucked from his storm-battered sailboat by the student crew of the Maine Maritime Academy training vessel in 2015. It was the second time he had been rescued and lost his boat.

Despite the bad luck, his wanderlust remained unfulfilled, and he soon purchased a final sailboat. He signaled his intentions by naming it Nevermore.

This time, his luck changed. He found love while in the United Kingdom writing "The Passage," a book that drew from his experience of being rescued. His fiancee, Jill Gormley, of London, said she had never been sailing before meeting him. Her introduction was a four-week sail to St. Lucia.

"We didn't have a single argument in 28 days," Gormley said, despite cramped quarters, canned food and an early bout of seasickness.

Gormley, who ran a program for schoolchildren with special needs, was up for an adventure. The challenge, the 56-year-old Gormley said, was overcoming fear.

"I wasn't bored. We chatted, played guitar, watched dolphins. Everything was new and exciting. The challenge was just not to be scared and trust that we were not going to sink," she said in a telephone interview from Charleston, South Carolina. "It was coming to terms with the vastness of the ocean," she said.

Added Hurley: "If there was any flaw in the relationship, it was going to be revealed then. We came out of it confident that we got along and were right for each other."

For Hurley, it was supposed to be a round-the-world adventure. But he is cutting it short after two years and 7,000 miles in the Atlantic and Caribbean.

He said he met his goal of crossing an ocean, and he's ready for a break from sailing. The journey ends June 15 in Oriental, North Carolina, where Nevermore will be stored.

Nate Gandy, captain of the Maine Maritime Academy training vessel, said he's happy that Hurley was successful in crossing the ocean. "It takes more than luck to make a trans-Atlantic trip like that," Gandy wrote in an email.

Hurley and Gormley are eager to tie the knot at a yacht club on the Thames River in October in London. They will be semi-retired, and Hurley will continue writing. The budding novelist has written a half-dozen books.

The Maryland native is planning a memoir, "The Leap." The title comes from the American philosopher John Burroughs, who proclaimed, "Leap and the net will appear."

Hurley has taken that to heart.

"If you open yourself up to new experiences, they will lead to new opportunities," he said, "but if you fear constantly that you have to have a plan and a budget and a bankroll, and everything has to be laid out in advance, then you miss out on a lot of the serendipity of life."

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At least 35 migrants were killed when their boat sank off Tunisia's southern coast and 67 others were rescued by the coast guard, the Defence Ministry said on Sunday.

The rescue operation was ongoing, the ministry said in a statement. The migrants were of Tunisian and other nationalities.

Human traffickers increasingly use Tunisia as a launch pad for migrants heading to Europe as Libyas coast guard, aided by armed groups, has tightened controls.

Security officials said the boat was packed with about 180 migrants, including 80 from other African countries.

Unemployed Tunisians and other Africans often try to depart in makeshift boats from Tunisia to Sicily in Italy

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Israel's government postponed voting on a bill to recognise the "Armenian genocide" over concern its advancement could benefit Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in upcoming poll, an official said Sunday.

A ministerial committee for legislation was due Sunday to hold a preliminary vote on the bill, presented by members of the coalition and opposition and tabled after the latest diplomatic confrontation with Turkey over the conflict with the Palestinians.

"The foreign ministry advised Prime Minister (Benjamin Netanyahu) to postpone the discussion on recognising the Armenian genocide until after the elections in Turkey, since such a discussion is liable to aid Erdogan in the elections," ministry spokesman Emmanuel Nahshon said.

"The prime minister accepted the foreign ministry's recommendation," Nahshon added in a statement.

Turkey is scheduled to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on June 24, with Erdogan seeking a new mandate.

Ties between Israel and Turkey took a turn for the worse in May when Israeli troops shot dead scores of Palestinians on the Gaza border and Washington moved its embassy to Jerusalem.

Erdogan called Israel a "terror state" and compared its actions against the Palestinians in Gaza to the Nazi persecution of the Jews.

He recalled his ambassador to Israel and expelled the Israel envoy and consul general, while Israel ordered the Turkish consul in Jerusalem to leave.

The Armenians say up to 1.5 million of their people were killed during World War I as the Ottoman empire was falling apart, with almost 30 countries to date having recognised the killings as genocide.

Turkey strongly denies the genocide charge.

Ankara argues that 300,000 to 500,000 Armenians and at least as many Turks died in civil strife when Armenians rose up against their Ottoman rulers and sided with invading Russian troops.

MP Itzik Shmuli from the opposition's Zionist Union slammed the foreign ministry's explanation on the need to delay the bill as "false and ridiculous".

"If foreign ministries in the world would act in such a cowardly and utilitarian manner on recognising the Holocaust, where would we be today?" he wrote on Twitter.

In a separate parliamentary initiative at the end of May, lawmakers approved holding a plenary debate on "recognising the Armenian genocide," without setting a date.

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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.Iraq and Iran have begun exchanging crude oil, the Iranian oil ministry's news agency SHANA said on Sunday, in a deal that will position Tehran to expand its interests in its most important Arab ally in the face of growing pressure from Washington.

Crude from the Kirkuk field in northern Iraq is being shipped by truck to Iran. Tehran will use the oil in its refineries and will deliver the same amount of oil to Iraq's southern ports, on the Gulf.

After helping Iraq stifle a Kurdish push for independence last year, OPEC producer Iran positioned itself to take control of oil exports from the region's giant Kirkuk field.

Baghdad agreed for the first time to divert crude from Kirkuk province, which it retook from the Kurds, to Iran, where it will supply a refinery in the city of Kermanshah.

The pact is likely to create unease in the United States, which accuses Iran of trying to dominate the Middle East. Tehran denies the allegations.

Faced with the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, Tehran is expected by analysts to focus on preserving its interests in neighbouring Iraq, where it is competing for influence with Washington.

Iran also faces a challenge from Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr. The nationalist's bloc secured a stunning victory in last month's election by tapping growing public discontent with Iran's sway in Iraq, and appealing to the poor.

Between 30,000 and 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) of Kirkuk crude will be delivered by the tanker trucks to Darreh Shahr in southwestern Iran, SHANA said.

Iraq and Iran plan to build a pipeline to carry the oil from Kirkuk to avoid having to use trucks.

The swap deal allows Iraq to resume sales of Kirkuk crude, which have been halted since Iraqi forces took back control of the fields from the Kurds in October 2017.

Even though talks between Baghdad and Tehran have been conducted between oil ministry officials and Chamber of Commerce, Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards are well positioned.

Those dealings are overseen by the desk responsible for Iran's investments in Iraq at the president's office and are run by the powerful force.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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Singapores neutrality makes it the ideal host for the upcoming Trump-Kim summit. Conciliatory and sensible, the choice of venue can hopefully set the tone for the talks

Italian political analyst Domenico Bartoli once noted that a summit between two leaders who are meeting for the first time combines the risk of misunderstandings with the most sensational publicity.

Supreme leader of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong-un and United States President Donald Trump are due to meet 12 June in Singapore for the first ever tete-a-tete between a North Korean leader and sitting American president.

Trump has repeatedly hinted that he may walk away from the summit. Not one to be outdone, Kim issued a similar threat 16 May.

Their huffs have been written off as attempts to assess each others keenness while gaining leverage and pre-emptively saving face just in case their counterpart does pull out. At the time of writing, plans are still in full swing.

Recent weeks saw the question switch from whether the summit could occur to where it would take place.

The location of this historic one-day summit has been the subject of intense speculation and pre-summit haggling, with numerous countries vying to play host. Serving as a taster for the degree of compromise to come, the venue became a matter of global interest.

The agreed site would have to be logistically convenient, symbolically significant and diplomatically appealing to both sides while meeting the highest security standards.

Before exploring how the Southeast Asian city-state of Singapore satisfies these exacting specifications, it is worth considering why other places did not make the cut.

Hosting the meeting in the US or DPRK would have implied a power imbalance straight out the gate.

Trump would claim a summit in Washington DC, as a crowning achievement while holding the summit in Pyongyang, North Koreas capital, would paint Kim as the more powerful of the two leaders.

Showing deference to Kim does not sit well with Trump, who prides himself on his deal-making skills and does not want to yield too much before negotiations even begin.

As South Korean scholar Cha Du-hyeogn explains, Trump was never going to Pyongyang unless he was sure he will return with a deal big enough to silence his critics at home, such as a firm agreement from North Korea for a quick and complete nuclear disarmament.

Kim was never going to Washington unless the United States promises to lift sanctions against the North upfront.

The media blitz surrounding Kims 27 April meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in enticed Trump to suggest Panmunjom in the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea as a venue, but another summit in the truce village a mere one-and-a-half-months later risked coming across as an underwhelming second act.

The optics would lose much of their punch because the pageantry of the inter-Korean talks is still fresh in our minds.

Several European cities were floated as potential venues, including Russias Vladivostok, but it is in neither leaders interest to gift-wrap the Kremlin a diplomatic victory at this point.

Sweden and Switzerland signalled a willingness to facilitate the meeting as both maintain diplomatic relations with the US and North Korea, and Geneva in particular was put forward as a favourite.

Kim is comfortable in Switzerland, having attended school in Berne, but it is a Western country and a long way from Pyongyang.

Kim is eager to show the world that unlike his aviophobic father, he is capable of reaching places beyond the tracks of his bulletproof train but he is held back by the outdated Soviet-era aeroplanes at his disposal.

His personal Ilyushin-62M (IL-62M) jet is accompanied by a Ilyushin-76 (IL-76) cargo plane that carries his limousine and requires refuelling every 3,000 kilometres.

Flying to a European destination would thus entail an undignified stopover or two, increasing the risk of danger.

This limitation whittled the list down to Asia. Mongolia, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia were among the countries that offered to host the summit.

As the scene of Kims half-brothers assassination (on Kims orders, by all accounts), Malaysia was an obvious no-go and the others were said to lack the necessary infrastructure.

Safe, neutral and not too far-off, Singapore emerged as the leading candidate. At 4,700 kilometres from Pyongyang, the island nation is comfortably within range of Kims IL-62M aircraft (the IL-76 will either refuel in a friendly location or carry a reduced load).

From a North Korean perspective, the risks you take in leaving the country and the risks you take in dealing with the international community are somewhat mitigated in Singapore, remarked Dan Blumenthal, director of Asian Studies at the American Enterprise Institute.

Singapore is one of 42 non-party, non-signatory states to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, eliminating the possibility of Kim facing human rights charges upon his arrival.

For two particularly paranoid leaders, security is a crucial selling point. Singapore is renowned for its high degree of public order, hypermodern surveillance and robust security infrastructure.

Singapore is an urban centre where East meets West, socialism meets capitalism and good relations are adroitly maintained with both the US and DPRK.

It is home to one of the 47 North Korean embassies worldwide. The two nations established diplomatic relations in 1975 (the same year as Singapore with South Korea) and up until 2016, North Koreans could travel to Singapore visa-free.

The US opened its consulate in Singapore in 1836 (when the island was still a part of the British Straits Settlements) and its embassy was set up in 1966.

Dubbed Asias Switzerland, Singapore enjoys close friendships with many countries around the world and successfully strives to be a neutral actor in global affairs.

Lacking the desire to harm the interests of other states and the historical and political baggage of the other suggested spots, Singapores impartiality valuably lends the Trump-Kim talks a neutralising setting.

While the precise venue of the summit is yet to be confirmed, nearly all of the major hotels in Singapore are booked solid for the days surrounding the summit due to a flood of reservations and hotel-imposed blocks which give official entourages priority.

Singapore is the current chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and since 2002 annual host of the Shangri-La Dialogue, the regions most important security forum which sees defence ministers and military officials come together at its namesake hotel.

Coincidentally falling a week after this years forum and conveniently while the hotel is still on high-alert, the US-North Korea meeting can realistically be expected to take place at the Shangri-La.

The same hotel famously hosted the historic 2015 summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and then-Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou, with preparations carried out in a shroud of secrecy and the meeting going off without a hitch.

As the financial centre of Southeast Asia, Singapore is one of the worlds wealthiest nations per-capita.

The island state of 5.6 million people experienced dramatic progress under the strict leadership of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

Becoming a more economically developed country in one generation, Singapores experience may serve as inspiration for Kim as he pushes for economic reforms back home.

In 2017, Singapore succumbed to international pressure and enforced United Nations sanctions on North Korea, but cargo ships from Singapore to Pyongyang are often allowed to slip by unchecked and last March it emerged that two Singaporean firms had continued to sell North Korea luxury goods.

Before the sanctions, the city-state was one of the DPRKs largest trading partners. Pyongyangs first law firm and fast-food restaurant were set up by Singaporeans and North Koreas state companies have, both legally and illegally, conducted many a transaction with Singapore-based businesses.

More than 4,200 American businesses operate in Singapore and the regional headquarters of big US corporations (including Chevron, Airbnb, Procter & Gamble and the Walt Disney Company) are based on the island.

Of the total $228 billion invested in Singapore in 2016, American companies brought in $180 billion.

Trade increased by 60 per cent after the two countries signed a bilateral free trade agreement in 2004, but the US retains a $20 billion trade surplus.

Singapore is not only one of Washingtons closest trading partners in Asia: it is also one of the US militarys most useful, long-standing and committed supporters in the Pacific region.

Located between the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean and serving as a gateway to the Far East, Singapore falls at a strategic point.

While the port city does not host any US military bases, the US Air Force and Navy have had a presence there since 1968, and in 1990 they were granted use of some of Singapores military facilities.

Singapore is an acceptable location to Beijing, North Koreas main ally and a strong influence over Pyongyang, but China is becoming wary of the US leading the effort to denuclearise North Korea.

In his efforts to re-insert China into the conversation and remind everyone that it is the most powerful player in the region, President Xi imperiously summoned Kim twice recently (to Beijing in late March and to Dalian on 8 May) and speculations abound that he intends to drop in on Kims talks with Trump in Singapore next month.

The ripeness theory is an approach to the study and practice of negotiations and mediations that postulates that the key to successful conflict resolution is timing.

Disputants only truly reconcile when they feel the time is ripe to put the disagreement behind them.

Arriving at this point when alternative means of moving forward become unpalatable and they find themselves stuck in an unproductive and costly stalemate, the parties become more open to finding a solution that will finally settle the dispute.

We do not yet know what will be said at the Trump-Kim summit and whether they will agree on a plan of action but the mere fact that this meeting is happening is cause for cautious optimism as it suggests both leaders deem the time ripe to finally engage in a mature, meaningful conversation.

The meeting will be a massive propaganda win for North Korea regardless of the outcome. Simply by accepting his invitation, Trump has given Kim the respect and legitimacy he has long-craved.

For Kim, a big part of this summit is getting to the photo opportunity and showing his people that he can not only muster the attention of the leader of a superpower but meet him as an equal on the world stage.

Summits are notoriously high on style and stagecraft and short on substance and statecraft. It is the theatrical dimension and body language rather than the exchange of views which make the meeting real to most people.

Trump relishes made-for-TV political moments. Drawn to high-risk, high-reward scenarios, he sees the forthcoming summit as the perfect opportunity to cast himself as a serious, historic figure.

He believes a deal with North Korea could be his legacy-maker. In the short-term, it would be help divert attention away from domestic scandals and the investigations swirling around him while bolstering his approval rating.

British professor David Dunn advises politicians and the media to refrain from point-scoring after a summit, explaining that for a compromise position to be the basis of further harmonious interaction it is imperative that the conclusion not be hailed as a negotiating victory for either side, and instead that it be presented as the common ground of good sense.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 31 May 2018 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly with headline: Summitry in Singapore

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By by Jennifer Liss Ohayon, Leif Fredrickson, and Christopher Sellers

22 May 2018

(The Washington Post)  So many different scandals have engulfed Scott Pruitt, head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), that multiple publications have created trackers to help readers sort them out. Pruitts excessive spending and his fraternization with lobbyists and controversial figures may eventually force him to step down. But the focus on his flawed personal ethics risks obscuring his broader mission: the dismantling of his own agency.That effort relies on tactics deployed by two previous Republican presidents  Ronald Reagan, who staged a frontal assault on the EPA early in his presidency, and George W. Bush, who worked to undermine the science underpinning the EPAs actions  and constitutes an all-out war on the agency. Yet it is not clear whether Pruitts departure would alter this trajectory, or whether the Trump administration will continue down this path, inflicting irreparable damage on one of our most important governmental agencies.Back in 1980, Reagan galloped into office with a campaign that, like Trumps, decried government overreach. Once in office, Reagan selected an EPA head hostile to the agencys initiatives: Anne Gorsuch (mother of Supreme Court Justice Neil M. Gorsuch). As a corporate lawyer and Colorado lawmaker, Gorsuch had opposed the Clean Air Act, water quality rules and hazardous waste protections. Other EPA appointees came from regulated industries and companies, including Exxon and Aerojet.Once in office, Gorsuch shrank EPA staff levels by 21 percent between 1981 and 1983, slashed the agencys budget and dissolved its Office of Enforcement. In the first year of the new administration, civil enforcement cases plummeted by about 75 percent.Gorsuchs assault on the EPA was ultimately cut short. EPA career staff gathered in bars to plot strategies of resistance and unionized themselves to promote job security and scientific integrity. Leaks from the agency and subsequent headlines led the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives to launch investigations. Major corruption and misconduct were uncovered in the Superfund cleanup program, with its head, Rita Lavelle (plucked from Aerojet), jailed for perjury.When Gorsuch shrugged off a congressional subpoena, 55 House Republicans joined Democrats to charge her with contempt. The White House turned against her, driving Gorsuch and a score of other political appointees out. Reagan then appointed William Ruckelshaus, the EPAs first administrator and a strong advocate of its mission, to lead the agency. Ruckelshaus helped revitalize staff morale and bipartisan support for the EPA.After Gorsuchs ouster, the Republican siege of the EPA abated for 17 years. In fact, Reagans successor, President George H.W. Bush, appointed the first professional environmentalist, William Reilly, to lead the EPA and signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, acknowledging the human role in climate disruption. But Bushs son, President George W. Bush, resumed the charge, in a more sophisticated and less overtly confrontational manner than Reagan. []These past attacks have done damage to our environment and climate. But the EPA survived and has even been able to adapt its regulations to new science, despite ongoing industry pressure and relatively stagnant budgets. It now faces a historically unparalleled threat.Trump and Pruitt have combined the overt attacks pioneered by Reagan and Gorsuch to the more sophisticated Bush strategy of corroding the science driving the EPAs activities.Like Reagans team, Trumps top EPA appointees, Pruitt and Andrew Wheeler, built their careers fighting the EPA, as Oklahomas attorney general and a coal company lawyer, respectively. Lower-level appointments are exemplified by Nancy Beck, who is leveraging years of experience as an industry lobbyist to rewrite chemical safety rules. [more]Country

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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Russia and Rwanda are discussing possible supplies of Russian air defense systems to the African nation, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Sunday.

"We have good cooperation in the area of military technology. Rwandan security forces, army, police have our helicopters, cars small arms. Now, we are discussing supplies of air defense systems," Lavrov said at a press briefing.

Lavrov is currently visiting Rwanda and is holding talks with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwabo.

On Nuclear Energy Cooperation, Lavrov also addressed the economic cooperation between two countries.

"We have various projects being implemented in particular areas, in some areas we will have to transform the agreements into concrete steps. Particularly, I mean the area of cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear energy," he said during the press briefing.

The foreign minister also added that there is mutual interest in the development of cooperation in such areas as agriculture, medicine, mining and geological exploration.

Homage to Genocide Victims

The Russian minister laid a wreath at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and visited the museum of the history of the genocide against the Tutsi ethnic group, paying tribute to those who died in the tragic events of 1994.

"I deeply empathize with the national tragedy of the people of Rwanda. The terrible tragedy, which afflicted it 25 years ago, remains an unhealed wound in the hearts of millions of people. We must do everything to ensure that such crimes never happen again. We must vigorously oppose xenophobia, racial and religious intolerance. This is invaluable what [Rwandan] President Paul Kagame is doing to strengthen inter-ethnic peace and harmony in the country," Lavrov wrote in the memorial's guestbook.

Rwandan Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwabo, in his turn, said that Russia could play a crucial role in peacekeeping on the African continent.

"Rwanda wishes to collaborate more with Russia especially in fostering peace and security on the continent. We believe that Russia could play a crucial role, particularly in peacekeeping in Africa," she minister stated following her meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Mushikiwabo also stressed that Lavrovs visit to Rwanda was an important step in relations between the two countries.

"We had the opportunity to work together before. This visit marks an important step in our bilateral relationship. We have agreed that we will see more of each other in each others capitals. And we will also be organizing a presidential visit," she stated.

The Rwandan genocide was the mass slaughter of country's Tutsi minority by Hutu extremists, which resulted in 800,000 deaths according to UN estimates.

The killings, which lasted from April to July 1994, were triggered by a nearly four-year civil war between the Hutu-led government and Tutsi-led Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF).

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At least 13 people were killed on Sunday in two separate attacks in central Nigeria's Benue state, an area wracked by clashes between Christian farmers and nomadic cattle herders, local officials said.

In the first attack overnight, gunmen believed to be herders invaded Tseadough village killing seven people, including women and children and took one woman captive, according to Kwande local government council head Terdoo Nyor Kenti.

The armed herdsmen stormed the village shortly after midnight while the people were asleep.

"From what I gathered, they opened fire and shot sporadically in all directions which rattled everyone," he said.

"Seven people were killed at the end, six others were injured while the herdsmen also went away with a woman after burning several houses and farmland in the area," he added.

A resident, Msurter Anger, confirmed the attack, adding that "everyone had gone to bed when the sound of sporadic gunshot was heard from all corners of the village."

He said "seven unlucky ones, including women and children, were either hacked or shot dead while an elderly man who could not run was burnt in his home."

In Otukpo town on Sunday, six people were killed in a cult violence, according to a witness Ogli.

Senior council official George Alli told AFP that six deaths have been confirmed. "I am still expecting a clearer picture about this because the police have deployed their personnel" to the area, he said, adding that security forces were on the trail of the attackers.

Benue state has seen a wave of deadly clashes which have left hundreds dead in recent months.

The area lies in the so-called "Middle Belt" between Nigeria's mainly-Christian south and predominantly-Muslim north.

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This is why Republicans want to let him get away with everything

Donald Trump has declared that he is above the law, any law.

He did this in a letter his lawyers sent to special counsel Robert Muellers office in January that his Trump likely leaked this weekend so Fox News employees and AM radio hosts dont have to bother checking their email. And Trumps lawyer Rudy Giuliani asserted a general presidential immunity for any immunity when he said that Trump can probably pardon himself.



But Trumps belief that he can get away with anything is most obvious in his sudden affection for the Chinese telecom ZTE, an affair that more and more looks like most obviously corrupt thing any modern president has ever done.

You know the basics of the story. Three days after a Trump Organization project in Indonesia received a billion dollar cash injection from Chinese interests, Trump suddenly became so concerned about jobs in China and the fate of ZTE that he had to tweet about. Now we know ZTE hired a Trump crony two days later and now US sanctions against the company, which has been accused of both spying and violating sanctions against Iran and North Korea, appear to be ending.

The press has found no meaningful way to speak about corruption as obvious as ZTEgate or the Chinese raining down trademarks on an American royal family that continually pursues its personal business interests quite competently while sucking at everything else.

Part of this is the press undeniable pro-Trump bias, as described by Crookeds Tim Miller, and part of it is just the limits of our ability to comprehend this unashamed sort of graft. The result is not only do Republicans show no interest in checking Trump, they rarely even have to answer for role in this conspiracy.

As Data Progress Sean McElwee points out, non-American observers grasp the extent of Trumps corruption better than Americans do. Sean points to a column in the Canadian publication Macleans where Scott Gilmore lays out what works with this president:

As Ive pointed out before, the President can be successfully engaged, and countries like Ukraine, China, and Qatar have demonstrated this. When they want something from the United States, they skip the State Department, and even the White House staff. Instead of approaching their problem state-to-state, they go state-to-man. These countries focus on what Trump wants on a personal level  to enrich his family. So Beijing granted Ivanka trademarks, Qatar invested in one of Jareds office towers, and Ukraine, with Slavic candor, simply wired half a million dollars to the Presidents personal lawyer Michael Cohen. For the most part, the western allies understand that if we want the U.S. to do something we must negotiate with the man himself. What we have not grasped yet is, as strange as it sounds, the President of the United States is more concerned about promoting his interests than defending Americas.

Gilmore suggests, somewhat seriously, that the only option allies like Canadians have is to treat him like a Russian oligarch and sanction his personal interests and travel.

This is about as good a plan as anyone has come up with for placing some limits on Trumps greed and corruption, besides taking at least one House in Congress this year, which will not be easy but must be done.

In order to understand what we should be doing, we have to consider how weve got into this mess. Trump broke through every guardrail and ran down the bumpers to kick over the pins to call it a strike. And he did it because no one stopped him. No one stopped him when refused to release his tax returns, when he called for Russian help after being told Russia would try to interfere in our elections, when he used that interference as the basis of the last month of his campaign. No one stopped him when he failed to divest in his businesses, when he hired his kids and let them keep running their businesses, and no one stops him as he lets a horrendous atrocity fester in Puerto Rico.

Not only do they not stop him, this Congress doesnt even question him. And thats what theyd do if he pardoned himself.

Part of this is basic Daddy Knows Best structure of conservative thought but just as much is the result of Trump coming through on some of the GOPs wettest dreams, from stealing court seats to transferring trillions to the richest.

Trumps corruption inseparable with his payback to Putin by waging a trade war on our allies. It all serves the same goal  enriching himself and his family. And its all a part of the conservative corruption of our politics that made it possible for a complete fraud to rise this high.

Trumps biggest advantage is that there is no Trump to call him out. No one is as loud, as shameless and no one is as good at putting out accusations that are almost impossible to be answered without making them more effective. And its no surprise that no one is more corrupt.

Democrats need to start explaining how his corruption pervades everything he does from the tax cuts he robbed from you to give to himself to deals with makes with our adversaries to the lies he tells to cover up his crimes. Its all a part of the same betrayal that wont let up as long as Republicans have the power to let him get away with it.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)Latest News

No quarterly, half-yearly exams for Class X and XII TN state board students this year The board exams would be conducted either in February end or March next year

ICSI CS Professional Result 2021 declared Mark sheets of the professional programme will be sent to the registered address of candidates

DU admission: College principals approve around 10,000 applications under second list Over 3200 of the 43,000 applicants to DU under second cut-off list have paid the feeA lawyer for Donald Trump said Sunday that the president "probably" had the power to pardon himself from any charges stemming from the probe into Russian meddling, while adding that the chances were dimming of the president agreeing to an interview with the special counsel leading the inquiry.

Former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, a recent addition to the Trump legal team, told ABC's "This Week" that a president "probably does" have the power to pardon himself, even while he insisted that Trump had no intention of doing so.

"I think the political ramifications of that would be tough," Giuliani added. "Pardoning other people is one thing. Pardoning yourself is another."

But the very notion sparked sharp dissent, including from a fellow Republican and sometime Trump adviser, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie.

"Listen, there's no way that'll happen," Christie told ABC.

"The reason it won't is because then it becomes a political problem ... If the president were to pardon himself, he'll get impeached."

House Republican Majority leader Kevin McCarthy also told CNN that no president should pardon himself.

And Preet Bharara, who like Giuliani is a former New York prosecutor, agreed.

Bharara, who was appointed by former president Barack Obama, told CNN that for a president to pardon himself would be "outrageous."

It would amount, he added, to "almost self-executing impeachment."

The talk of self-pardoning has raised eyebrows amid the roiling debate over the Russia meddling inquiry and the president's cooperation -- or lack of it. Trump has issued a series of ever-sharper tweets attacking the Mueller probe as politically motivated and insisting there was "no collusion" between his campaign team and Russia.

The debate over a self-pardon has been further fueled as Trump has issued -- or hinted at -- a series of pardons to political allies, and done so in a way Democrats say is meant to signal his present and former aides that they need not fear resisting the Mueller probe.

Meantime, Giuliani has said before that the president's lawyers oppose Trump sitting down for an interview with Mueller. The president's lawyers fear an interview could lead to Trump inadvertently, and they say innocently, committing perjury.

While saying on Sunday that Trump wanted to sit down with Mueller, Giuliani added, "It's beginning to get resolved in favor of not doing it."

His comment suggested that Trump's lawyers were beginning to persuade the president of the dangers involved.

Asked about a January memo from Trump's legal team to Mueller -- which conceded, after multiple White House denials, that the president himself had dictated a misleading letter last July about a meeting involving his son Donald and a Russian lawyer -- Giuliani said, "That is why you don't let the president testify. Our recollection keeps changing" and sometimes needs to be corrected.

That memo, first reported by the New York Times, also asserted that a president has full power over Justice Department investigations and therefore cannot be charged with obstruction of justice.

Giuliani was asked on ABC whether a president accused of a crime as serious as murder or bribery could terminate the investigation.

"I would not go that far," he said.

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Turkish troops are at the border of Qandil

Within the scope of Turkeys cross-border operation aims to establish security and stability along Turkish borders, Turkish Armed Forces have reached Qandil region borders in northern Iraq.

Turkish forces have made a 26-27-kilometer held into Iraqi territory, Turkeys interior minister Suleyman Soylu said on Saturday. Turkish Armed Forces cross-border operations launched to clear Turkey's border of the PKKs terrorist threat continue.

TURKISH FORCES ARE READY TO ATTACK TERROR TARGETS

Turkish troops had taken the control of the Syrian Kurdish city of Afrin. Troops now deployed in the Qandil Mountains where PKK is controlled from. Thousands of Turkish commandos advanced about 20km into Duhok and Erbil provinces, part of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), local media reports said.

The Turkish Army reportedly established several military control points in the provinces. Turkey said it is prepared to attack bases and positions of PKK terror organization in the Yezidi area of Shingal, west of Mosul, and also in the Qandil mountains located on the border.The establishment of a Russian industrial zone in Egypt is a milestone in relations between the two countries

After two years of deliberations, an agreement to establish a Russian industrial zone in Egypt was finally signed last week.

Established on an area of 5.25 million square metres in East Port Said in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, the new zone is expected to attract some $7 billion in investment.

The agreement was signed by Minister of Trade and Industry Tarek Kabil and his Russian counterpart Denis Manturov during a meeting of the Joint Russian-Egyptian Commission for Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation.

Extending for 50 years, the agreement represents a qualitative shift in strategic relations between Egypt and Russia, according to Kabil. It aims to increase bilateral industrial cooperation, enhance investment opportunities and provide favourable conditions for industrial, scientific and technical cooperation between the two countries, he said.

It provides for the creation of a special territory with a simplified tax regime and special conditions for the exports of Russian enterprises, Igor Ishchenko, director of Technopolis Moscow, was quoted as saying on the companys website.

Technopolis Moscow is an affiliate of the Russian Department of Science, Industrial Policy and Entrepreneurship.

According to Ishchenko, the Technopolis team took part in conceptualising the site, as well as in the analysis of markets in Africa, the Middle East and Southern Europe. It also negotiated with more than 300 Russian companies about setting up shop in the new zone.

The importance of the new Russian industrial zone lies in the fact that it is the first outside Russian territory, according to Mustapha Khalil, a member of the Egyptian-Russian Business Council. It goes to show how far Russia values the location and facilities offered by Egypt, he said.

It is expected that the new zone will serve as a gateway for Russian industries. Its central location, midway between East and West, would mean cheaper logistics costs for Russian exporters, Khalil explained.

Russian manufacturers that establish themselves within the zone will also be able to benefit from agreements between Egypt and the African countries, the EU, Mercosur, a Latin American trade bloc, and with the other Arab countries, he added, all of which give preferential treatment to products manufactured in Egypt.

While Russian companies will benefit, Egypt will also do so because they will create jobs and allow for the transfer of technology. The zone is thus part of Egypts drive to attract foreign investment to help create jobs and boost growth.

According to a statement from the Suez Canal Economic Zone, the new zone will be built over three phases.

Development work for the first phase, which will cover one million square metres, will start in 2018 and will also work on attracting Russian investors and companies throughout 2018 and 2019. This phase will create 7,300 jobs in construction and will cost some $190 million, according to Kabil.

The second phase will develop 1.6 million square metres and will be finished by 2022, creating 10,000 jobs.

The third phase will develop 2.65 million square metres and generate 17,000 jobs.

The three phases are expected to be finished by 2031, when Russian companies will start operations in the zone, providing some 35,000 direct and indirect jobs, the statement said. Land granted in the zone is on a usufruct basis, Kabil stated.

The Egyptian and Russian sides have agreed to establish a company, the Moscow Economic Zone, responsible for the zones operations and construction work.

They have further agreed that the Egyptian and Russian governments will supervise the project, funded by the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) and several Egyptian banks.

The volume of trade between Egypt and Russia increased by 62 per cent year-on-year in 2017, registering $6.7 billion, Russian trade representative in Cairo Nikolai Aslanov told the Middle East News Agency earlier this year.

Around $500 million of this represented Egyptian exports, while the rest were Russian exports to Egypt. Wheat and metal are among the main Russian exports, and fruit and vegetables are Egypts main exports.

The Egyptian trade minister put the trade figures at around $4 billion in statements made in May this year.

Russian investments in Egypt stood at around $4.5 billion in 2017, according to Aslanov, of which 60 per cent were in the petroleum and gas sectors.

Egypt and Russia have seen increased cooperation over recent years. In December 2017, President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed an agreement in Cairo for the establishment of a nuclear power plant to be built in Al-Dabaa on Egypts northwest coast by the Russian state-owned company Rosatom.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 31 May 2018 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly with headline: Russia gets the go ahead

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US soldiers deployed on Sinjar Mountain in Iraq

Troops affiliated with the US have been deployed on strategic Sinjar district of Iraq's Mosul province, after Turkish forces have reached to the Qandil borders.

Terror group PKK announced it had abandoned military posts, after Ankara hinted at possible military intervention.

US AIMS ESTABLISHING A MILITARY BASE

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, District Governor Mahma Khalil said that the US troops, armed with heavy weapons and military vehicles, installed themselves on Sinjar Mountain, northern Mosul. Khalil added that the US had already prepared a deployment in Sinjar and aimed at establishing a military base on the mountain. In addition, Iraqi media outlets also pointed out that the US troops on Friday arrived at Sinjar Mountain along with 15 armored personnel carrier vehicles.

The US and Iraqi troops reportedly secured control of western Mosul near the Iraq-Syria border, a former stronghold of Daesh. On August 3, 2014, terror group PKK entered Sinjar district on the pretext of protecting Ezidi community against raids by terror group Daesh.

After Ankara hinted at a possible military operation in Sinjar, terror group PKK announced that it had withdrawn from the region last March. Then, the Iraqi army announced that it had settled in the areas the terror group had evacuated.With the temperatures rising, relief is in sight.

Just a handful of days left before the local swimming pools across Faribault County begin to open for their seasons.

However, one pool in particular is looking to make a few more waves within the next few months in hopes of those waves benefiting the summer of 2019.

Members of a Blue Earth Community Pool Slide Fundraising Committee, a branch of the Blue Earth Active Living Coalition, have been in conversation with one another this past winter in hopes of bringing the vision of a second pool slide to the Blue Earth Community Pool more than just a heat-induced mirage, but a reality.

When the updated Blue Earth swimming pool was built, over 10 years ago, there was intention of building a second slide in the future.

Now, members of the committee are hoping to raise enough funds to build the long-awaited second slide. A bigger, faster, tube-like slide. Last year, the committee raised somewhere around the neighborhood of $5,500, which is not enough for the full slide.

The Blue Earth Community Foundation generously stepped up as the fiscal host for the fundraisers as they work throughout the summer to raise enough money for that highly-awaited second slide.

We have a goal of $50,000 by the end of the Faribault County Fair, says?David Kittleson, a member of the Blue Earth Active Living Coalition and chairperson for the slide fundraising efforts. We hope that whatever we do raise will bring us that much closer to a new slide at the pool.

Blue Earth Light and Water customers have already been given the heads up in their monthly bill about the ongoing fundraising strategies for the Blue Earth Community Pool slide, and already the committee has gotten a little bit of feedback from their efforts.

Matching funds will be made available by the Huisman Family Fund throughout the summer, meaning anyone who donates, even just one dollar, to the pool slide fund, that dollar amount will be matched by the local Huisman Family Fund.

Its very exciting to have this opportunity for our fundraising efforts, Kittleson says. We are hopeful this will encourage anyone to donate even the smallest amount. Many hands make light work, as they say. This applies to this situation as well.

Kittleson says he has already reported the committees efforts to the Blue Earth Parks Committee, where Blue Earth City Council member Glen Gaylord is chair. Every year, the Parks Department is committed to assisting one recreational activity, and Kittleson is encouraged by the progression of the pool slide committees fundraising efforts so far.

I think if we show our City Council how dedicated we are to raising these funds and seeing that slide go up, we will have a more likely chance they will notice our efforts and potentially help us see this through.

This year, specifically, the ALC committee has created a few events throughout the summer in order to help students get the most out of their summer experience at the Blue Earth Community Pool.

The Prairie Express will be lending a helping hand to the communities of Frost and Elmore as the students from the local small towns in that area will receive a ride to the swimming pool on Tuesdays and Wednesdays of each week to the Blue Earth site.

The Blue Earth Community pool also offers a variety of events throughout the summer including morning lap swimming, water aerobics, swimming lessons, water zumba, family swim, open swim, and many more activities.

Its important that we give all of our students every opportunity we can to be a part of the Blue Earth swimming community, says pool manager, Michelle Hall. Not only is it a way to beat the summer heat, but it is a way for students to stay connected with their friends over the summer, and be actively involved in something healthy, and community-based. We have a full staff of trained lifeguards on duty at all times, as well as a snack bar.

Located at Blue Earths Putnam Park, the Blue Earth Community Pool has been a base for summer kid swimmers for over 40 years, with major upgrades taking place within the past 10 of those years.

The swimming pool is one of the best parts about summer, says committee member Lill Robinson. We want to make the best part about summer even better by adding this second slide. We are seeing our community grow in a number of different ways. It only makes sense that as our city grows, so do our resources for those community members and their children.

If you are interested in donating to the Blue Earth Community Pool Slide Fund, head to the Blue Earth Community Foundation website and fill in pool slide in the tribute/dedication box. That, or check out the Blue Earth Pool Slide Fundraiser Facebook page and get any necessary information there. Or, you can send donations directly to the Pool Slide Fund, P.O. Box 390, Blue Earth, Minnesota, 56013.There is a unique dance party coming to the school gymnasium of United South Central starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 9.

The idea for the dance party, fully equipped with live DJs in Wells, was initiated by a group called Crave the Movement. The non-profit organization was started by co-founders Josh and Victoria Rich. Together, the two siblings from Central City, Kentucky, will host parties in locations across the United States and Mexico this year.

Crave the Movement was started because in January of 2013, a close friend of Victorias met an untimely death due to a drug overdose.

After such a traumatizing experience, Rich and her brother took it upon themselves to create a positive shift in youth culture by hosting drug and alcohol free raves for young adults around the country. As Rich explains, these rave parties allow young adults to have a good time in a responsible manner.

We try to show kids that they can have a blast without using drugs or alcohol, Rich says.

According to the organizations website, cravethemovement.com, they will be hosting raves in places such as Memphis, San Diego, Dallas and Chicago later this year.

With so many popular American cities to party in, what made the rural town of Wells, Minnesota, an attractive destination to host a rave? As it turns out, Wells business owner Bill Schusters daughter, Leah, forged a personal relationship with the Rich siblings.

While working in the customer service field in the Twin Cities, Leah, 28, met Josh and Victoria at Passion Church in Maple Grove. This unique friendship led to the idea of expanding the Crave the Movement initiative into Wells.

Meanwhile, Schuster views the party as a way to promote positive recreational opportunities for young adults in the area.

Its a social media based group that has gained a lot of momentum on Facebook and Instagram, Schuster says. It gives the youth more things to do and its a fun party that will help reach out to a lot of people.I think I have done a few thousand interviews over the course of my long journalistic career.

But, I am not sure I have ever done an interview where my subject was trying to interview me at the same time I was trying to interview him.

That happened last week.

Perhaps you saw a bearded gentleman wandering around Blue Earth last Thursday, with a notebook in hand and a camera around his neck, asking questions with a decidedly British accent. That is the guy.

He is Tom Geoghegan from the British Broadcasting Corporation, known as the BBC.

Tom had requested some time to interview me about what I thought about Blue Earth, and did I think it was a progressive small town, and, if I did, why did I think so.

Meanwhile, I was trying to ask him why someone from the BBC was in Blue Earth, Minnesota, to begin with. What is the angle? Who are you, why are you here, how did you find Blue Earth and why not somewhere else?

Imagine two bull elk tangling horns, but with both tangling by asking questions of each other. In the end, since he was my guest, I let him go first. Sort of.

I answered his questions and told him what I thought of Blue Earth. Yes, I think it is progressive, especially the City Council. Yes, I think it is on an upswing. I gave him a list of things that are going on here, and what has been done in the past 10 or so years that I know about. It really is a great community I said.

Then it was my turn.

Turns out Tom is based in Washington, D.C., and has been a journalist for a long time. He is the deputy editor of the BBCs North America digital/online operation. He manages a team of reporter/journalists who are tasked with the job of covering all of North America and presenting stories to a global audience.

A little larger goal than what we have here at the Register. And yet similar in many ways. Just translate covering all of Faribault County to covering all of the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Anyway, it seems Tom has had this idea of trying to get away from covering the big metropolitan cities and find out what life in the thousands of small towns in America is all about. Were small communities slowly drying up and dying? Or were some thriving or at least working hard to remake themselves.

He wanted to find one that had some issues but was now trying to be aggressive and trying to reinvent itself.

It was Jim Beattie of Blue Earth who alerted Tom about our city in southern Minnesota and what was going on here.

Tom then contacted me by email and asked me whether I thought Blue Earth was progressively aggressive and trying to reinvent itself.

After I determined he really was from the BBC and not some scammer, I told him yes, I did. And gave him a laundry list of why I thought so.

Next thing I knew, he was booking a flight out here. He told me last week he decided not to send one of his reporters, but come himself, because he wanted to see this town for himself.

I got the feeling he was starting to fall in love with this place with the unique name of Blue Earth.

After our interviewing of each other, Tom asked if he could take my photo. I said sure, if I could also take one of him. So we did.

His story and photos about Blue Earth will appear on the online version of the BBC in a few weeks. I will try and alert you to that when it happens.

Boy, I sure hope he quotes me accurately, and only uses my smart, clever remarks and not the dumb ones. Now I know how the folks I interview feel.

Cherrio until next weekMankato  Donald E. Stefanske, age 89 of Mankato, formerly of Blue Earth, passed away on Friday, May 25, 2018 at Kingsway Assisted Living in Belle Plaine.

A Celebration of Donalds Life will be Friday, June 8, 2018 at 1 p.m. at Woodland Hills Chapel in Mankato with Deacon Russell Blaschko officiating, military honors following services. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Blue Earth.

The Stefanske family will greet friends on Friday from 11 a.m. until the hour of services at the funeral home. Woodland Hills Funeral Home of Mankato is handling arrangements.

Donald Eugene was born on Feb. 12, 1929 to George Mikeal and Helen Ann (Murtha) Stefanske in Blue Earth. He graduated from Blue Earth High School in 1946. He entered the United States Army on Jan. 16, 1951 and served his country in the Korean War until his honorable discharge on Jan. 20, 1953. Donald was employed by Blue Earth Valley Telephone Company in Blue Earth for over 40 years as a phone technician. He and his significant other Betty Engelby lived in Mankato for 23 years before moving to Belle Plaine in 2018. He was a member of the Blue Earth American Legion Post #89 and the Blue Earth VFW, and served on the honor guard for funerals for many years. Donald was also a member of the Blue Earth area Knights of Columbus Chapter and the Blue Earth Bowling League. He enjoyed traveling, watching all sports, especially Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins. Donald loved time spent with family and friends.

He is survived by his significant other, Betty Engelby, of Belle Plaine; brother, Richard Stefanske, of Fairmont; by many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Georgia and Patricia.WA OAT growers are in for a win with high demand for the cereal crop pushing up domestic prices due to dry seasonal conditions and the need for livestock feed.

Thats if producers have enough to sell off after meeting their own on- farm requirements.

However, with access to the Chinese market for exporters only six months away, due to China abolishing its tariffs on January 1, 2019, there may be more opportunity for WA growers than previously experienced.

The removal of tariffs would make it commercially viable for Australian traders to enter China and could see Wagin oat mill owner UniGrain boost its production if it can source enough of the crop.

Prices for oats have been volatile over the past four years, with producers seeing price variations of between $60-$140 per tonne within seasons over the past three years, according to data from independent commodity advisors Market Ag.

Last week Grainmarket published figures in Farm Weekly that showed 2017 oats peaked at more than $300 per tonne at Kwinana.

The export opportunities for oats may have an affect on UniGrains WA production, more so than other States, due to 100 per cent of production at the Wagin mill going to export.

UniGrain director of corporate development Andrew May said the family-owned and operated business, based in Victoria, was looking to the future after its takeover of the old Morton Seed and Grain site at Wagin in 2014.

It is believed that UniGrain has invested an estimated $20 million in the past four years to upgrade its equipment and expand its operating capacity at the site, although Mr May refused to disclose the total amount and would only confirm that it was a multi-million dollar investment.

The estimated figure is consistent with what Quakers Mill paid for its new mill in Forrestfield, Perth a few years ago.

UniGrain Wagin general manager Brent Hope said when the upgrade of the flaking mill was undertaken in 2016 the infrastructure was set in place to expand operations  which, when it occurs, could mean an additional 10 people eomployed on site.

UniGrain employs 43 permanent and casual staff from the Wagin area.

The Wagin mill is a 38 metre, four storey-high plant, which is fully computer operated.

Its new flaking mill works on a three-phase, gravity fed system and runs seven days a week.

Mr Hope said it was tough to get oats at the moment due to it being in-between harvests and also because of competition in the marketplace.

It is an extremely sensitive market, Mr Hope said.

It is a very competitive export market for oat flakes, so we have invested strongly in equipment to ensure that we are an efficient, low cost operator.

It is a high volume, very low margin business.

Australian oats have come back to be competitive in the market after being at historically high levels for a few years  it has really swung around in the past six months.

Mr Hope said continuity depended upon the quality of the harvest, the extra crops available or the crops lost due to seasonal conditions.

UniGrain sources all of its product from within Australia, with its Smeaton Mill, Victoria, mainly focused on the domestic market and the Wagin mill geared up to meet export demand.

Mr May said the Wagin mill could process upwards of 100,000 tonnes of milling oats per year.

We have the capacity to grow to meet the demands of the market, Mr May said.

He said over the years the business had developed strong trading markets in Taiwan, Japan, India and across South East Asia, including in the Philippines and Indonesia.

Our mill in Wagin can service a large and growing Asian market, he said.

We will keep investing so that capacity can match the demand over time.

Mr May said the company would always need to be a competitive player for milling oats in the market.

Oats do well traditionally in the Wagin area and broader Wheatbelt region, he said.

We believe a sufficient level of oats have been grown this season but there is naturally always a level of uncertainty awaiting seasonal conditions.

To secure oats we need to keep delivering strong and consistent value for local growers.

We have a strong relationship with growers to ensure that they will want to continue supplying UniGrain on a sustainable, long-term basis.

Mr May said in general oat production was increasing.

Over the medium-term oat production is increasing, but year-to-year it is influenced by seasonal conditions and the market at the time, Mr May said.

The market for oats is firming due to the dry conditions.

Grains Industry WA reported the May estimates for WAs oat crop for 2018 was 290,000 hectares.

This was up from the May 2017 estimate of 217,000ha.

Mr Hope said UniGrain was a sponsor of the Wagin Woolorama and other events and groups within the Wagin community.The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you, we are excited to offer 4 weeks FREE Digital & Print access to all subscribers new and returning alike.

We are dedicated to continuing providing reliable, high quality journalism. This is possible with the trust and support of our subscribers in the community we are proud to serve.Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release

SubCategory Select Sub-CategoryCairo said on Sunday that US oil company Apache has expressed interest in expanding its activities and investments in Egypt, "breaking new ground" for cooperation with the Egyptian petroleum sector.

In an official statement, Egypts petroleum and mineral resources ministry said minister Tarek El-Molla met with a delegation from the American company, where they discussed work underway at the companys concessions in the Western Desert.

Both sides discussed the companys intensive work pursuing oil discoveries in the West Kalabsha and West Kanayes concessions, after a trial of advanced seismic surveys in the areas succeeded.

The drilling programme in eastern Bahariya in the Western Desert, where drilling will start during the third quarter of the current year, was also discussed.

According to the statement, production from eastern Bahariya is predicted to start six months after drilling operations.

Apache also expressed their interest in Egypts international major tender for oil and gas exploration, specifically in bidding on 11 blocs, including five in the Western Desert.

In May Egypt announced it will launch two international bid rounds for oil and gas exploration in 2018.

One bid round will cover 16 concession areas, mostly in the Mediterranean Sea, under state buyer EGAS, in its largest ever bid round.

The other auction will cover 11 concession areas under the Egyptian General Petroleum Corp (EGPC).

Egypt has been seeking to speed up production from recently discovered fields, with an eye to halting imports by the end of 2018 and achieving self-sufficiency.

The Zohr field, discovered by Italian giant Eni and deemed the largest natural gas discovery ever made in the Mediterranean Sea, is located off Egypt's northern coast, within the Shorouk block, some 190 km north of Port Said.

The field was discovered in August 2015; production began in December 2017 with a time-to-market of 2.3 years.

The mammoth gas field is set to transform Egypt's liquid natural gas (LNG) industry, ending Egypt's importation of the product.

In May, Eni announced the start-up of the third production unit (T-2) of the Zohr field project, increasing its functional capacity to 1.2 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d).

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.               ()      12  -      ...A number of amendments to the state budget for the coming fiscal year 2018-2019 were suggested by the budget and planning committee in discussions in Egypt's House of Representatives which started on Sunday, Al-Ahram Arabic website reported.

The committees report demanded that the new budget include legislative changes to facilitate an increase in state revenue without affecting low-income citizens, according to MP Hussein Eissa, head of the committee.

A new package of social protection for poor and low-income citizens was also recommended.

The committee recommended the imposition of fees to legalise currently unauthorised and illegal land ownership and use, for example EGP 10,000 for each agricultural fedan used for housing.

The budget and planning committee also emphasised the importance of restricting the size of state bureaucracy, considering the increase of the state wage bill to EGP 266 billion in the 2018/2019 budget.

"There are 7 million governmental employees yet state administration requires only 3 million, meaning there is an excess of 4 million employees," Hussein Eissa said to parliament.

Eissa added that the government should adopt a training programme to shape these 4 million employees into a productive force.

The House of Representatives also discussed the budgets of the general economic authorities and the National Authority for Military Production in the new fiscal year.

The parliamentary report recommended that the government search for new ways to reduce the budget deficit as well the percentage of public debt.

The committee proposed amendments in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance to increase the budget for the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health.

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CNN anchor Alisyn Camerota was slammed by conservative Twitter users Saturday when she tried to draw parallels between the idea of FBI informants in the brutal gang MS-13 and President Donald Trumps claim that his campaign was spied on.

You believe that the FBI planted a spy in the Trump campaign. Are you using the term informant and spy interchangeably? Camerota, a former Fox News co-host, asked Matt Schlapp, formerly President George W. Bush's political director.

When the FBI uses a source in MS-13 to find out what theyre doing is that a spy or a source, an informant to figure out what MS-13 is doing? she continued.

Look if youre going to equate, I would call it spying, Shlapp fired back. And heres the big difference, Donald Trump is not MS-13, Alisyn.

Twitter users were outraged by what they viewed as an effort to conflate the two.

The mainstream media has been called out in the past for targeting Trump and sympathizing with MS-13.

Trump was asked about the brutal gang recently by Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims when addressing California sanctuary city laws. Mims specifically said, There could be an MS-13 gang member I know about, if they dont reach a certain threshold, I cannot tell ICE about them.

The president responded: You wouldnt believe how bad these people are. These arent people, these are animals, and were taking them out of the country at a level and at a rate thats never happened before.

While Trump was clearly talking about MS-13, which is responsible for some of the grisliest murders in recent memory, several left-leaning news organizations decided to share the presidents response without key context. Watchdogs called them out on social media for misinterpreting the remarks.

C-SPAN tweeted a video that did not show Mims comment, editing down the conversation with Trumps answer and the caption: President Trump during California #SanctuaryCities Roundtable: These aren't people. These are animals. The video has been viewed more than 2.6 million times in less than 24 hours.

The New York Times, ABC News, NBC News, CBS News and CNN all followed with similar tweets  with most of the content coming after it was well publicized that Trump was specifically referring to MS-13 gang members.Families who live near a hog farm in Bladen County, N.C., have been complaining for decades about bad smells, flies and excessive chemical spraying.

But on Thursday, they finally scored a huge victory in court. A federal jury awarded the neighbors more than $50 million in damages, agreeing that the impact of the farms operation was so intrusive that people couldn't enjoy their rural homes.

Instead of suing the farm's owner, the plaintiffs attorneys aimed instead at the hog-production division of Virginia-based Smithfield Foods, a Chinese-owned company.

Smithfield uses strict contracts to dictate how farm operators raise the livestock that Smithfield owns.

Jurors awarded the 10 neighbors who sued the 15,000-head swine operation a total of $750,000 in compensation, plus $50 million in damages designed to punish Smithfield.

"We are pleased with the verdict. These cases are about North Carolina family property rights and a clean environment," said Mona Lisa Wallace, a Salisbury attorney whose firm teamed with two Texas-based firms to prepare the series of trials covering similar ground. "We are now preparing for the next, which is scheduled for the end of May."

The jurors decided that the defendant owed [the neighbors] a standard of care in terms of trying to minimize the odors and other undesirable fallout from their processes," said Wake Forest University law professor Sidney Shapiro, who has followed the case. Apparently the jury decided [Smithfield] knew about and disregarded all this fallout even though they could do something positive to reduce it.

Smithfield hasn't changed the locally dominant method of hog waste disposal since intensive hog operations multiplied in North Carolina in the 1980s and '90s. The practice involves housing thousands of hogs together, flushing their waste into holding pits, allowing bacteria to break down the material, then spraying the effluent onto fields with agricultural spray guns.

Neighbors say the spraying sends the smells and animal waste airborne, allowing it to drift into their homes and sometimes coat outdoor surfaces on their properties.

The case was the first in dozens of lawsuits filed by more than 500 neighbors complaining about hog operations.

But North Carolina legislators last year changed state law to make it much more difficult to replicate the string of nuisance lawsuits targeting hog operations like the one decided Thursday.

The lawsuits are a serious threat to a major industry, to North Carolina's entire economy and to the jobs and livelihoods of tens of thousands of North Carolinians," Smithfield senior vice president Keira Lombardo said in a statement.

Although the size of the jury award is large, the result of the next trial could be more telling since the parties were chosen by Smithfield's attorneys, said Drew Kershen, an emeritus law professor at the University of Oklahoma and a past president of the American Agricultural Law Association.

"If you got a second test case, chosen by the defense attorney, which turns out to have damages like this, then you would really have to say, my goodness these are really significant claims against the industry in North Carolina," he said.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Editor's Note: This story initially appeared April 27. A spokeswoman from Smithfield Foods emailed the following statement to Fox News on May 31:

Weve learned of the charges that the Utah Attorney Generals Office has filed against members of Direct Action Everywhere (DxE) regarding last years incident. While members of DxE committed several crimes on our property, including trespassing, breaking and entering, and theft, all prosecuting decisions are entirely that of law enforcement. We continue to fully cooperate with the authorities on this matter. You can read our original response here, and find our full response following these recent charges here. Additionally, you can learn about our industry-leading commitment to animal care here.NEW You can now listen to Fox News articles!

There they go again. For the 1 millionth time, anti-Trumpers are horrified, aghast, stupefied.

The presidents latest offense against their sensibilities is a pointed use of his pardon power. So far, he has pardoned just five people, including Jack Johnson, the legendary black boxer whose conviction a century ago was an act of pure racism.

But four others involve recent, politically tinged cases, including that of conservative provocateur Dinesh DSouza. Most alarming for the usual critics, the president hints that he is just getting started and cites a possible pardon of Martha Stewart, whose conviction came under James Comey, the former FBI boss and Trumps archenemy.

Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) told reporters he worries Trump is sending a message to witnesses in special counsel Robert Muellers probe, adding, In the United States of America, nobody is above the law.

Bingo! Thats exactly the point Trump is making, though he and Warner obviously disagree on who nobody is.

To continue reading Michael Goodwin on The New York Post click here.U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., rallied Californias Disneyland Resort workers in Anaheim on Saturday in support of a state wage-increase measure that some say would cost the state thousands of jobs.

In the same speech, Sanders also praised Disney CEO Bob Iger for canceling ABC's Roseanne after its star's recent Twitter meltdown -- even though the sitcom's shutdown reportedly threw hundreds of crew members out of work.

So it may be no surprise that some observers were left skeptical of Sanders' credentials as an advocate for working Americans.

While touting himself as a friend of the working man, Bernie has come all this way to support a measure that will result in thousands of lost jobs for the people of Anaheim, Todd Ament, CEO of the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce, said in a written statement.

Ament has previously criticized minimum-wage hikes in Seattle and Los Angeles, saying they led to workers either losing their jobs or seeing their hours cut, the Orange County Register reported.

"While touting himself as a friend of the working man, Bernie has come all this way to support a measure that will result in thousands of lost jobs."  Todd Ament, CEO, Anaheim Chamber of Commerce

The California proposal Sanders championed Saturday would raise the minimum wage for affected workers to at least $15 an hour beginning in 2019, with $1 increases annually until reaching $18 an hour by Jan. 1, 2022, the Register reported.

If a corporation like Disney has enough to pay its CEO over $400 million in a four-year period, it damn well has enough to pay its workers at least 15 bucks an hour, Sanders said.

Those workers, however, apparently won't include as many as 300 Californians that TMZ reported likely lost their jobs in the "Roseanne" shutdown. Nevertheless, the socialist democrat praised Iger for ending the comedy series. The ABC network operates under the Disney umbrella.

Recently, Disney CEO Bob Iger did the right thing and canceled Roseanne after her racist tweet, Sanders wrote, referring to comedian Roseanne Barr's post aimed at a former adviser to former President Barack Obama. He also called on Iger to lead corporate America away from the greed destroying the country.

While Sanders alternately criticized and praised Iger, Disney's corporate office seemed to take a more decisive position regarding Sanders.

While Mr. Sanders continues to criticize Disney to keep himself in the headlines, we continue to support our cast members through investments in wages and education," Disneyland spokeswoman Suzi Brown said.

While Mr. Sanders continues to criticize Disney to keep himself in the headlines, we continue to support our cast members through investments in wages and education."  Suzi Brown, Disneyland spokeswoman

The Disneyland Resort announced last week that it previously offered a 36 percent pay increase to about 9,500 resort workers over three years, the Los Angeles Times reported. The offer would provide a minimum salary of $15 an hour by 2020, one year later than the proposed measure.

We are proud of our commitment to our cast," Brown said, "and the fact that more people choose to work at Disneyland Resort than anywhere else in Orange County."Former President Bill Clinton argued Sunday that impeachment hearings would already be in full swing if a Democrat were in the Oval Office and if the special counsels investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election were as deep as it is now.

I think if the roles were reversed  now, this is me just talking, but its based on my experience  if it were a Democratic president, and these facts were present, most people I know in Washington believe impeachment hearings would have begun already, Clinton told CBS Sunday Morning.

Clinton, who appeared alongside James Patterson to promote the political thriller The President is Missing that the two penned together, noted that these are serious issues that the country is facing.

So far, the special counsels investigation, which is headed up by former FBI director Robert Mueller, has charged 19 people  including three former campaign aides of President Trump  along with three companies, and has received five guilty pleas. Perhaps the most high-profile of those guilty pleas came from Trumps former national security adviser Michael Flynn.

Clinton, whose wife, Hillary, lost the 2016 election to Trump, is no stranger to impeachment hearings. After a lengthy investigation by independent counsel Ken Starr, the Republican-controlled House in 1998 voted to impeach Clinton for perjury and obstruction of justice in relation to the Monica Lewinsky scandal.

Clinton, however, was acquitted of both the perjury and obstruction of justice charges when the impeachment trial went to the Senate.

During the interview with CBS, Clinton also blasted Trump for the presidents bombastic style and his use of nicknames to poke fun at political opponents. Trump labeled Florida Sen. Marco Rubio Little Marco and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz Lyin Ted during the 2016 campaign season, has referred to North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un as little rocket man and continues to refer to Clintons wife as Crooked Hillary.

I dont like all this. I couldnt be elected anything now because I just dont like embarrassing people, Bill Clinton said. My mother would have whipped me for five days in a row when I was a little boy if I spent all my time badmouthing people like this.

While the former president said that the press would have been just as hard, or harder in covering a Democratic president, he did defend the media against Trump habit of labelling certain news outlets as Fake News.

I think they have tried by and large to cover this investigation based on the facts, Clinton said.Email invites for a Sunday meet-and-greet with political hopeful Cynthia Nixon in Ithaca, New York, incorrectly spelled name of the city as Ithica, the New York Post reported.

The news outlet said Ithica appeared on the Friday emails in four separate instances. Nixon is running to be governor of the state.

The messages were sent in error, Lauren Hitt, a spokeswoman for Nixon's campaign, told the Post.

Something like this obviously would have been caught through our normal review process, she explained. The proper steps have been taken to ensure this doesnt happen again.

The AP pointed out that Lis Smith, a campaign aide for incumbent Gov. Andrew Cuomo, took to Twitter. She referenced Nixons role as lawyer Miranda Hobbes on Sex and the City in a Friday tweet.

BERNIE SANDERS TAKES JOB-KILLING STANDS AT DISNEY WORKERS' RALLY, CRITICS SAY

I know the character @cynthianixon played on TV never left the island of Manhattan, but you'd think someone trying to play the role of NY gubernatorial candidate could hire better writers than this #Ithica, she said.

Cuomo and Nixon are slated to go up against one another in a Democratic primary, the Democrat & Chronicle reports.

We all make typos, Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick, a Cuomo supporter, told the paper.

Myrick said he believes the typo exposes the two things that I most worry about with her candidacy: their campaigns lack of knowledge with issues outside of New York City and their inexperience.Mississippi has no shortage of candidates seeking to win its two U.S. Senate elections and a broadly contested 3rd District House race this year, but with only a handful of exceptions, there has been a noticeable lack of fireworks.

The relative tranquility in the races has surprised local observers, who say it's the happy product of strong incumbents, narrowly avoided primary challenges, and policy agreements on key issues.

There have been some splashes of unexpected drama. Last month, actors Robert De Niro and Alec Baldwin helped host a pricey cocktail party in Manhattan for a Democrat campaigning in what is widely viewed as a futile effort to unseat Republican incumbent Roger Wicker in the Senate.

The party, which had suggested campaign donations ranging from $1,000 to $5,400 per person, benefitted Howard Sherman, one of six Democrats facing off in the June 5 primary, his campaign confirmed to The Associated Press. Sherman is married to actress Sela Ward, who had recurring roles in shows like "House" and "CSI:NY."

Sherman may have needed the out-of-state Hollywood help: He had been his own biggest political donor so far by a dramatic margin. A finance report showed that through the end of March, he had put $500,000 into his own campaign, and had received just one donation for $1,000. The source? His own campaign manager.

WATCH: ALEC BALDWIN TIRES OF TRUMP

Wicker took aim at the event in an email to supporters, calling Baldwin and De Niro "mega liberals" who don't respect the president. De Niro has said Trump is not welcome at his restaurants, and Baldwin has lampooned the president regularly on "Saturday Night Live."

But despite his opponent's high-profile support, Wicker, who faces one minor challenger in the GOP primary, hasn't seemed to have much cause for alarm. Polls show he is the overwhelming favorite in November.

"Wicker will simply shrug off any Democratic challenge," Geoff Pender, the political editor of Mississippi's Clarion-Ledger, wrote last week.

Remarkably, Wicker received a $5,000 contribution from Sherman last year, according to Federal Election Commission records. Sherman was registered to vote as a Republican in California until 2016.

Sherman has said he donated because Wicker was facing the prospect of a primary challenge at the time by Chris McDaniel, a tea party-backed state lawmaker who nearly unseated longtime U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran in a bitter 2014 Republican primary.

WHAT COCHRAN'S RESIGNATION MEANS FOR HIS SENATE SEAT

Cochran resigned from the Senate in April after serving 40 years, citing health issues, and Republican Gov. Phil Bryant appointed the state agriculture commissioner, Cindy Hyde-Smith, to fill the Senate seat temporarily.

McDaniel had qualified to challenge Wicker this year, but switched races to challenge Hyde-Smith instead this November in a special election for the final two years of Cochrans term. There is no primary in the special election.

In May, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce poll showed that Hyde-Smith is significantly ahead of McDaniel and Democrat Mike Espy. Hyde-Smith commanded 30 percent of likely voters' support, with Espy at 22 percent and McDaniel at 17 percent.

McDaniel's decision to avoid a head-to-head with Wicker, which was all but assured to be yet another bruising primary battle, has contributed to an unusually quiet election season in Mississippi. McDaniel is not as well-funded as he was in 2014, the Clarion-Ledger reported, possibly leading to fewer aggressive advertisements and more positive campaign messaging overall.

The six Republicans and two Democrats vying for outgoing Rep. Gregg Harper's seat, meanwhile, are engaged in the "polite-est, least-contested contested primary in state history," Pender wrote, with nary a negative advertisement in sight.

"I moderated what was supposed to be a 'debate' among the GOP candidates, but they refused to debate," Pender continued. "Their policies and platforms appear to differ only in minute degrees."



The Associated Press contributed to this report.Former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski told Fox News Sunday that President Trumps legal team will take it to court if Special Counsel Robert Mueller subpoenas him as part of the Russia probe.

They will take it to court, and I believe the courts going to be on the presidents side on this, Lewandowski said Sunday.

The Trump confidant was addressing the tense and protracted deliberations over a possible interview with Mueller that some Republican allies have warned could be a perjury trap. It was revealed over the weekend that the presidents legal team had even written a letter to Mueller in January claiming Trump could not be forced to testify -- and could not have committed obstruction of justice because of his broad authority as president.

Lewandowski, though, said the president and his team still appear willing to sit down for questions with Muellers team, but want to first determine the scope of such a meeting. He said all sides could avoid a subpoena fight if they can keep the questions focused.

Lewandowski stressed that he doesnt think the president, though, would defy a court order.

TRUMP ATTORNEYS SENT LETTER TO MUELLER CHALLENGING INTERVIEW

The president clearly respects the rule of law in this country, he said.

Lewandowski also sounded off Sunday on the controversy the president has dubbed spygate  revelations that an FBI informant was in contact with several members of the 2016 Trump campaign. Lewandowski, who ran the Trump campaign until shortly before the Republican National Convention in the summer of 2016, complained that the FBI never contacted him.

Never did they notify me of their concerns about potential Russian meddling or a potential spy, Lewandowski said.

Democrats have countered that the FBI didnt appear to actually have a spy in the campaign, and ex-intelligence community officials have argued that law enforcement were just trying to find out more about Russian meddling.

Even GOP Rep. Trey Gowdy has defended the FBI as having acted appropriately.

But Lewandowski said it looked like selective enforcement, adding: There had better be accountability.

LEWANDOWSKI JOINING PENCE POLITICAL TEAM

The former Trump official, who recently joined Vice President Pences political action committee, has remained an adamant defender and ally of the president.

Asked on Fox News Sunday about the controversy over President Trumps recent pardon of conservative filmmaker Dinesh DSouza  which fueled speculation that Trump could be preparing to pardon figures connected to the Russia probe  Lewandowski said the presidents powers are clear.

Under the Constitution, he has the legal authority to pardon anybody, he said.

However, in reference to two former officials swept up in the probe, he said, "There is absolutely no evidence whatsoever that the president has ever discussed having a pardon for Mike Flynn or Paul Manafort or anybody else for that matter."A nearly 300-year-old mosque whose minaret collapsed in Qena governorate on Sunday morning is not on the countrys antiquities list, the Supreme Council of Antiquities has said.

Several websites and social media platforms published articles about the collapsed minaret of El-Tayeb Mosque in the city of Qus, accusing the Ministry of Antiquities of negligence.

Mostafa Waziri, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, denied blame and asserted in a press release that the minaret and the mosque were not registered on Egypts antiquities list for Islamic monuments because they did not meet the required archaeological criteria and standards.

Gamal Mostafa, head of the Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Antiquities Department at the antiquities ministry told Ahram Online that the minaret was the oldest architectural element of the mosque, and in 2005 the Ministry of Endowments rebuilt the mosque due to its bad construction and architectural condition.

Al-Ahram Arabic reported the mosque was originally built in 1147 AH (1734-5 AD).

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Special Counsel Robert Mueller is sensitive to pulling "another Comey" as the Russia probe enters its final months, Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani said in an interview Sunday.

Calling the investigation a "long nightmare with the American people," Giuliani also issued a challenge directly to Mueller's team, telling investigators to "man up" rather than seek to subpoena President Trump.

"They have to make a decision without it," Giuliani said on ABC's "This Week," noting that the Trump team has already made available several witnesses and turned over more than a million documents. "So, come on, man up and make your decision."

Meanwhile, former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski told Fox News Sunday that President Trumps legal team will take it to court if Mueller subpoenas him as part of the Russia probe.

"They will take it to court, and I believe the courts going to be on the presidents side on this, Lewandowski said Sunday.

Giuliani said he would keep an "open mind" about whether Trump would testify under oath in the probe, but added: "I have to just be honest, we are leaning towards not."

Mueller is wary of overstepping his authority just months before the midterm elections, Giuliani said.

TRUMP ATTORNEY SETS 'RED LINES' FOR MUELLER

"He's as sensitive as everybody to not doing another Comey and interfering horribly in the election," Giuliani charged, referring to the former FBI director's decision to publicly announce the reopening of the Hillary Clinton email investigation shortly before voters headed to the polls.

"I have a feeling that collusion has come up completely empty," Giuliani said, adding that he thinks the inquiry into any possible collusion by the Trump campaign with Russia has probably ended.

Asked about the possibility that Trump could be impeached simply for lying to the press, even while not under oath, Giuliani laughed.

"Congress is going to impeach somebody for lying to the press? Come on. They do more lying to the press than anybody."  Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani

"Congress is going to impeach somebody for lying to the press?" he said. "Come on. They do more lying to the press than anybody."

Presidents can technically be impeached for essentially any reason, and the articles of impeachment drafted against Richard Nixon cited his misleading statements to the American public.

But, Giuliani said, Trump would face potentially significant risks if he fired Mueller and shut down the probe into his campaign's supposed ties to Russia.

"It could lead to impeachment, if he terminated an investigation of himself," Giuliani said in a separate interview on NBC's "Meet the Press."

The theory that Trump could also effectively short-circuit the Russia probe by issuing an unprecedented self-pardon, Giuliani added, was a complete non-starter.

"The president of the United States pardoning himself is unthinkable ... it would probably lead to immediate impeachment," he said.



CAN TRUMP SELF-PARDON? LEGAL EXPERTS WEIGH IN

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie agreed on Sunday, telling "This Week" that there is "no way" Trump will pardon himself.

The Russia probe is still expected to conclude by September 1, Giuliani said.After a series of animal mishaps, the United Air CEO said that the airline got it wrong, referring to an incident last week that resulted in the death of a dog after a flight attendant placed the pet in an overhead bin.

CEO Oscar Munoz said Wednesday that company rules have prevented United employees from thinking outside the box when problems arise, Bloomberg reported.

We put our folks in bad places when we give such definitive, specific, concrete, rigid rules that theyre not allowed to show a little caring and compassion, he said.

A French bulldog died on flight from Houston to New York on March 12 after a flight attendant insisted that the dog be placed in its carrier and in the overhead bin through the duration of the flight.

The airline says that the unidentified employee did not understand that there was actually a dog inside the carrier, a story the family and other passengers say is not true.

UNITED FLIGHT ATTENDENT WHO FORCE DOG INTO OVERHEAD BIN LYING, OWNERS DAUGHTER SAYS

Ultimately, this whole thing is about trust, Munoz said. You have the right to demand the highest level of performance from us.

He added that United will be putting thousands of workers through a new training program called Core4 that will train them to better handle situations based on safety, compassion and efficiency, Bloomberg reported.

The training program comes just as the company announced that they would be halting new PetSafe reservations while it improves the program.

DOG MISTAKENLY SENT BY UNITED TO JAPAN RETURNING HOME TO HIS OWNERS

United recently charted a private jet to fly a German shepherd home after it was mistakenly sent to Japan instead of Kansas.

In a separate incident two days later, a United flight made an unplanned landing in Ohio after it was discovered it was carrying a dog that was put on the wrong plane.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Four people, including a prominent New York builder who constructed homes for stars such as Martha Stewart and Billy Joel, were killed Sunday after their plane crashed off the coast of Long Island, police said.

Ben Krupinski, 70  known as the Hamptons Builder to the stars  and his wife, Bonne Bistrian Krupinski, 70, and grandson, Will Maerov, 22, were dead following the crash about 1.5 miles south of Indian Wells Beach just before 3 p.m. Saturday, Long Island Business News reported, citing police. The pilot, Jon Dollard, 47, also reportedly died.

"We are stricken by this loss," said Capt. Kevin B. Reed of the Coast Guard. "Our deepest sympathies go out to the families and loved ones of the two recovered individuals."

The four were on the Piper PA-31 Navajo plane heading to East Hampton Airport when it crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off Amagansett, Long Island, police said. Two bodies were recovered after the crash.

U.S. Coast Guard, East Hampton Town Marine Patrol and private fishing vessels searched through the debris before suspending the search Saturday night. Rescuers resumed the search Sunday morning.

AIRPLANE HITS TRACTOR-TRAILER HAULING PIGS DURING EMERGENCY LANDING ON HIGHWAY

The Federal Aviation Administration was investigating the cause of the crash. Extreme weather was reported in the area when the plane went down.

There was a very nasty thunderstorm going on. It was unexpected. There were very strong downdrafts, Bill Gardiner, a local pilot, told the New York Post.

Gardiner added Ben and Bonnie Krupinski had owned the private plane since the 1980s.

The beloved couple known as Bennie and Bonnie by local residents had a real-estate empire worth a reported $150 million, according to the New York Post. On his business website, Ben Krupinski was described as a man who earned a reputation for delivering outstanding results and a member of the greater Hamptons business community for the last 40 years.

In a 1992 New York Times article, Krupinski was called an ace East Hampton pilot and Contractor to the Stars.

His completed projects also included the Parrish Art Museum and Southampton. The family owned several restaurants such as 1770 House, East Hampton Point and Citta Nuova.

They were generous beyond belief, Citta Nuova employee Jeanne Nielsen told the New York Post. They were very philanthropictheir grandson Will had worked here for the summer in the past. He was a student at Georgetown.

WORLD WAR II-ERA PLANE CRASHES IN WOODED AREA IN NY, KILLING PILOT

Nielson said the family flew all the time and were expected to have dinner at Citta Nuova before heading to the movies.

They were together forever. They were the couple that was together forever, she added.

The Krupinskis were also involved in politics and threw fundraisers for Republican politicians, Newsday reported. They also made campaign contributions to Lee Zeldin, Mitt Romney and Jeb Bush in the past.

These are amazing, wonderful people. Theyre the heart of East Hampton, former East Hampton elected official Diana Weir told the news site.A Dallas woman told police she shot and killed her husband because he was beating the family cat, according to investigators.

Neighbors said they were shocked to hear Mary Harrison, 47, had been charged with murder in the slaying of her 49year-old husband Dexter Harrison Saturday morning.

A man got shot over a cat? Its kind of crazy, neighbor Carl Phillips told KTVT. Its unbelievable. A man loses his life over a cat. I mean, people love their pets, but it aint that serious to die for a cat.

Dallas police were dispatched to the Harrison home in response to a shooting.

When officers arrived Mary Harrison reported that she had shot her husband during an argument, as he was beating the family cat, police said.

He went to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. Police said she went to Dallas Police headquarters where she agreed to be interviewed by homicide detectives.

During the course of the interview, she admitted to her role in the offense and confessed to shooting the victim, police said.

KTVT reported that the Harrisons cat had disappeared recently.

She posted signs during the search for the missing cat. The cat eventually returned.

Harrison is being held in lieu of $100,000 bond in the Dallas County Jail.A rookie Georgia police officer has been fired after striking a suspect fleeing on foot with his patrol car, officials said.

Athens-Clarke County Police Department released bodycam footage of Officer Taylor Saulters striking Timmy Patmon, 23, during a chase Friday in east Athens.

After reviewing the officers body camera footage, and all the other facts and circumstances of this case, Chief Scott Freeman terminated the employment of Officer Taylor Saulters, the department said in a Facebook post Saturday.

Patmon suffered scrapes and bruises, police said.

Police spokesman Epifanio Rodriguez told the Athens Banner-Herald that Saulters violated departmental policies and procedures.

This was not the kind of conduct we would expect from an Athens-Clarke County police officer, he said.

Saulters graduated from the police academy less than a year ago, the paper reported.

IOWA SHERIFF PLEADS GUILTY TO TRAFFIC VIOLATION AFTER TELLING DEPUTY TO GIVE HIM TICKET FOR ILLEGALLY RIDING ATV

Police said Saulters and his partner Hunter Blackmon were on patrol when they spotted Patmon. Blackmon knew Patmon was the subject of an outstanding felony probation warrant.

When Patmon took off, Blackmon got out and gave chase on foot, while Saulters stayed in the car.

Saulters tried to cut off Patmon but ending up hitting a stop sign, FOX5 reported.

When he tried again that's when he hit Patmon, according to the station.

Patmon was charged with violating probation and obstructing a law enforcement officer after being released from the hospital, Fox 5 reported.The search for two teenage boys who were swept away in a swollen creek in Georgia resumed Sunday, as authorities said they "hope for a miracle" to find the pair alive.

The Oconee County Sheriff's Office said the 18-year-olds were reported missing on Friday around 3:45 p.m., after one of the men fell from a dam on Barber Creek located just outside of Athens and the other teenager went in to rescue him.

The waterway was swollen due to runoff from recent heavy rains in the area, which left conditions "extremely dangerous" for rescue crews to attempt to go in and search for the two teenagers, according to officials. A woman who witnessed the two get swept away tried to help, but also needed to be rescued, the sheriff's office said.

"Earlier the water was moving at roughly 3000 cubic feet per second," the sheriff's office posted to Facebook. "Normally it runs at 200 on average."

While officials said they would not release the names of the teenagers until they are found, a family member identified one of the boys in an interview with FOX5 Atlanta.

Roger Smart said his grandson Robert Bryant Wade was walking along the dam with water an inch from the top then fell in, possibly because of rising water. The second teenager tried going after him, but Smart said the current was just too strong.

Bryant was a good strong going guy and this is a testimony of how strong the river is. People, this is real, this is really realand these kids need to pay attention to this, he told FOX5.

NATIONAL GUARDSMAN'S BODY FOUND NEAR ELLICOTT CITY AFTER BEING SWEPT AWAY BY FLOODWATERS

On Saturday, the Sheriff's Office shared a video of the situation at the dam with the water slightly lower compared to Friday.

"We hope for a miracle, but we understand the reality," the sheriff's office said.

Rescue crews have used infrared cameras and dogs to search for the teens. Water levels dropped enough by Saturday for authorities to continue a side-by-side walkdown of the Barber Creek in pictures posted to Facebook.

In another post, the sheriff's office showed divers searching the water for the teens, which could not take place earlier due to high water levels.

The Oconee County Fire Department and several units from Clarke County were assisting deputies with the search efforts.An Idaho teacher accused of feeding a sick puppy to a snapping turtle in front of several middle school students was charged Friday with misdemeanor animal cruelty.

Preston Junior High School science teacher Robert Crosland faces up to six months in jail and a $5,000 fine if convicted. The school is in rural Preston, where the 2004 teen cult classic film "Napoleon Dynamite" was set.

The turtle was humanely euthanized after being seized, EastIdahoNews.com reported Friday. The reptiles are considered invasive species in Idaho.

The story made headlines around the world, and many demanded that Crosland be charged, the news outlet reported.

SCIENCE TEACHER FED LIVE PUPPY TO SNAPPING TURTLE IN FRONT OF STUDENTS, WITNESSES SAY

Crosland allegedly fed the puppy to the turtle in front of three boys after school hours on March 7. The mother of two of them told a local newspaper at the time that the story had been blown out of proportion, EastIdahoNews.com reported.

If anyone has a right to be upset, it is me, Farahlyn Hansen said, according to the news outlet. I am not upset. I felt like it was the more humane thing for Robert to do than to just leave it (the puppy) to die.  The puppy was dying.

Preston School District 201 Superintendent Marc Gee called Crosland's actions a regrettable circumstance," KTVB-TV reported.

Crosland faces an arraignment June 12 in Franklin County.

Attempts to reach Crosland at the school Friday were not successful, the Associated Press reported.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Police officers from several Indiana police departments attended a high school graduation Saturday for the daughter of a fallen trooper more than a decade after he was killed in the line of duty.

Lauren Rich had 39 police officers from six police departments in Indiana at her Southwood Junior-Senior High School graduation on Saturday. Sgt. Tony Slocum, public information officer for Indiana State police, said Laurens father, Master Trooper Detective Dave Rich, was shot and killed in 2007.

Congrats Lauren, we promise we will never forget your families sacrifice, Slocum tweeted along with a photo of Lauren and the 39 police officers.

Rich was investigating a reported stranded vehicle when a man opened fire through the drivers window, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page. Rich, who was not wearing a bullet-proof vest, was killed after being struck in the chest.

OFFICERS KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY IN 2018

Lauren was 7 years old when her father died. Her father had been in the force for more than 17 years.

Slocum called Laurens father an awesome guy and said Rich would have been proud of the great young lady his daughter has become.For the second time in four years, Doloryn Purfano is starting over. Except this time, the giddy anticipation of a new life on an island paradise has been replaced by bleak uncertainty and fear that her dream may be gone forever.

Purfano ditched her job in Washington state in 2014, sold her possessions and moved 2,500 miles southwest to Hawaii. Starting over on the Big Island had been her fantasy, and now she was living it.

When the ground shook and the earth under Purfanos adopted hometown ripped apart, as Kilauea spewed molten rock and fire, Purfano became one of thousands of residents displaced following the recent eruption of one of the most active volcanoes on the planet.

Since then, Purfano and her neighbors have been plunged into an apocalyptic horror, shacking up in shelters, putting up tarp tents in parking lots and sleeping in their cars as Kilauea continues its fiery eruption and wreaks havoc on their lives.

I had to leave almost everything behind, she said, biting her periwinkle-painted fingernails outside a community help center in Pahoa.

She had managed to grab a black trashbag before she left her home near the Leilani Estates. She tossed in her favorite yellow sundress, a beat-up paperback copy of The Maze Runner and a couple of pictures of her friends.

I dont know what to do now, she told one of the volunteers in almost a whisper before tearing up. What do I do?

The tension, fear and uncertainty of living near an evacuation area have taken its toll on the thousands rendered homeless since the recent eruption of Kilauea four weeks ago.

People are at their breaking point, Keala Martins-Keliihoomalu, a 27-year-old full-time student at the University of Hawaii at Hilo who helped organize a community food and clothing drive, told Fox News.

You see really old people sleeping on the ground and in tents, she said. They have lost their homes, everything they have ever had. We give them a place to cry it out. They need to be spoken to like people and not barked at. Think of everything they have been through.

On May 3, Kilauea began shooting ash plumes 30,000 feet into the air. Thick waves of lava seeped from fissures in the ground, destroying homes, choking off escape routes and knocking out power before creeping its way toward the ocean. As it hit the blue waters of the Pacific, it created a dangerous steam laced with hydrochloric acid and fine glass.

Thick vog  volcanic smog created by vapor, sulfur dioxide gas and carbon dioxide - blanketed a 2,400-acre zone, and just this week, scientists at the U.S. Geological Survey warned of volcanic glass called Peles hair falling from the sky.

We cant take it anymore, resident Caroline Walee told Fox. This isnt a hurricane or tornado. Boom - its over. Time for cleanup. This has been happening for four weeks and no one knows when its going to end.

In the month thats passed, more than 87 homes have been destroyed, Hawaii Civil Defense spokesman Talmadge Mango said Friday. About 2,500 residents have been displaced.

We are in ground zero on a daily basis, Lilinoe Kahalepauole, a volunteer at a community donation center, told Fox News.

Kahalepauole lives two subdivisions down from the epicenter of the crisis and says its common to see people who are in complete shock.

A lot of people are ashamed to come here, so I say, Thank you, and tell them I have been waiting for them, she said.

Kahalepauoles mother, Baylina, also deals daily with displaced residents who have been forced to sleep in their cars or outside as the uncertainty grows over when  or if - life will ever return to normal.

There was a woman in tears and all she could say was, My place isnt there. Its gone. Its all gone. Everything I have worked for. All of it is gone, Baylina Kahalepauole told Fox News.

The shock, fear and grief stoked by Kilauea is playing out in very different ways on the island.

On Friday, a Leilani Estates man who was registered at the emergency shelter at Pahoa Community Center, hanged himself in a wooded area near the shelter.

A day earlier, police arrested a 55-year-old driver after he slammed through a checkpoint and crashed his car into a hardened lava flow.

In a separate incident, Leilani Estates resident John Hubbard opened fire on a fellow resident he thought was looting. Hubbard allegedly had approached the man and the group he was with, demanded they leave, assaulted one man and fired his gun.

Were asking for a little compassion.  Andy Andrews

Hubbard was arrested and charged with five counts of first-degree terroristic threatening, two counts of first-degree reckless endangering, first-degree robbery, failing to register a firearm and more after he fired shots into the air.

One resident staying at the Red Cross shelter in Pahoa said she sleeps with a knife  a big one.

People here are going crazy, she said.

Red Cross spokeswoman Krislyn Yano told Fox News they have had more than 1,900 requests for mental health services at the three shelters on the island, with the majority being anxiety-related.

But it is tricky to help people who are exhausted, on a knifes edge and unsure what the future holds.

Its an anomaly, Yano said. Everything is so uncertain.

Residents have also been frustrated with the strict 6 p.m. curfews the county has put in place. Several shared stories about how they ran a few minutes over getting medicine or supplies from their homes and were told they must sleep in their cars.

Were asking for a little compassion, Andy Andrews said at a recent community meeting. A little understanding.

Alan Richmond, a spokesman for the Hawaii Police Department, says hes aware of the frustration mounting.

We are seeing a lot of fatigued people and a lot of people who are upset, he told Fox News. Its got to be devastating to walk away from your home and not be able to take anything. Its human nature that you would get frustrated and we understand that to a point. But the law is the law and you cant break the law.

Despite the stale state of daily life for residents affected by Kilauea, hope could soon be coming.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim announced he would launch a rapid re-housing initiative similar to a resettlement effort that was used after a tsunami demolished parts of Hilo in 1960. Kims spokeswoman Janet Snyder said authorities at the time developed a strategy called the Kaikoo Plan which would resettle residents in six months.A dozen ducklings were saved last week from a sewer grate by police officers, Maine authorities have shared.

The Portland Police Department posted a snap of the young birds on Facebook Thursday.

Momma duck was no where [sic] to be found, the post said. They have been transported to Avian Haven bird rehabilitation center by the Animal Control Officer.

Portland police added that it was a very quacky morning.

Kim Chavez, an employee at the rehab center in Freedom, spoke to the Portland Press-Herald about the ducks.

DALLAS POLICE OFFICER PRAISED FOR COMFORTING INFANT IN MOMENTS AFTER CAR CRASH

Mom had stepped off the curb and the ducklings fell in, she explained. Mom was actually there for most of the day looking for the babies.

According to her, the ducklings are in an enclosure that includes a small pool -- and are going to probably be let into the wild in August if things go well.

Chavez told the Press-Herald that it appeared impractical to reunite the birds.

At this point they had endured the two-hour journey up (to Freedom) and I didnt think there was any point in trying to send them back the two hours, and honestly as heartbreaking as it is, mom will try again, she said.

Chavez said she was very glad the birds were saved, adding she was sad they werent given back to their mom.A Connecticut man is wanted for the murder of a 28-year-old woman who was shot and killed as she sat in a car with her son and daughter.

New Haven police said the murder suspect, Tramaine Poole, 41, has also been accused of shooting his 36-year-old wife three weeks ago, Fox 61 Hartford reported. She survived.

The wife and the woman who was killed, Tyekqua Nesbitt, were best friends in New Haven, WTNH-TV reported.

Nesbitt's children, ages 6 and 11, were with her when she was murdered Thursday night, according to the station.

They deserve answers, Nesbitts twin sister Tashauna Nesbitt, told the station. They dont have a mom anymore. We have to fill that spot for them now.

ALLEGED TENNESSEE COP KILLER ARRESTED AFTER MANHUNT, POLICE SAY

Police said Poole may be wearing a dreadlocked wig to disguise his appearance.

Pooles wife was shot days after Poole obtained a restraining order against her, the New Haven Register reported.

Poole told the court that he was concerned for his safety and being set up, as his wife had allegedly threatened him in the past, according to the paper.

He wrote that he wanted to protect himself as he was afraid of her temper, the paper reported.

MANHUNT UNDERWAY FOR MAN SUSPECTED OF KILLING GIRLFRIEND, SET HOUSE ON FIRE

The Register reported that the restraining order was dismissed when Poole failed to pick up the papers from the court.

The U.S. Marshals' Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to Pooles capture.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.The estate of a Boston man who was shot to death by a city police detective and an FBI agent in 2015 during a terrorism investigation is suing the federal government for $5 million on wrongful death allegations.

Usaamah Rahim and two other men were accused of participating in a plot to behead conservative blogger Pamela Geller, who angered Muslims by organizing a Prophet Muhammad cartoon contest in Garland, Texas, in 2015. The plot was not carried out.

Authorities said officers shot the 26-year-old Rahim when he lunged at them with a knife in Boston. At the time, an anti-terrorism task force was surveilling Rahim around the clock because authorities had learned of the beheading plot.

Suffolk District Attorney Daniel Conley concluded the officers were justified in shooting Rahim.

The Boston Globe reported Rahim's estate filed the lawsuit in federal court in Boston on Thursday. It alleges law enforcement officers "unlawfully seized, assaulted and killed" Rahim, and accuses officials of acting "negligently and recklessly in their use of excessive force, and deadly force."

The lawsuit also says no fingerprints were recovered from the knife and there were inconsistent accounts by officials about how Rahim pulled the knife.

The FBI and Boston police declined to comment.

Authorities said Rahim's nephew, David Daoud Wright, and Nicholas Rovinski also were in on the plot against Geller. Wright is serving a 28-year prison sentence for conspiring to kill Americans on behalf of the Islamic State, and Rovinski is serving 15 years behind bars for plotting to commit acts of terrorism.

During the 2015 cartoon contest, two other men opened fire outside and wounded a security guard before they were killed in a shootout with law enforcement assigned to guard the event.

___

Information from: The Boston Globe, http://www.bostonglobe.comA Tennessee man grabbed his gun and opened fire on two burglary suspects who broke into his home Friday night, killing both of them, police said.

The homeowner, who asked to not be named, told FOX13 he was walking into his home in Memphis when he encountered the two alleged burglars, identified as 28-year-old Azell Witherspoon and 17-year-old Demond Robinson. He was returning home from the barber shop and found the door pried open.

[The suspect] picked up his weapon, turned around and points them at metwo pistols, the homeowner recalled.

The suspects allegedly began shooting when the mans friend ran outside. When the suspects dashed out of the house, the homeowner grabbed his gun and began firing.

"I mean, were in Memphis, youre going to need a gun."  Memphis homeowner

I just let loose, not knowing it hit both of them, he said. My life is the last thing anyone wants to take.

Im sorry, but it was them or it was me, he added.

TEXAS TEEN, 13, IS CHARGED IN STABBING DEATH OF FRIEND; VICTIM'S MOTHER CLAIMS ADULT STOOD BY AND WATCHED

Memphis police said Saturday the homeowner will not be charged in the deadly shooting.

The individual who was detained has been released without charge. All evidence was presented to the DAG's Office and it was determined that no criminal charges will be filed at this point, police tweeted.

The homeowner said this isnt the first time hes dealt with violence. Last September, he said someone also shot at his home.

I mean, were in Memphis, youre going to need a gun, he said.American farmers are bracing for the worst as President Trumps trade war escalates into a new, potentially disruptive phase.

Across the country, farmers are about to begin harvesting wheat. Almost 60 million tons are annually produced in the U.S. and about half of that is exported. However, its unclear where this years crop will ultimately be sold.

Trump was elected, in part, on campaign promises to rein in what he has characterized as a global trade system rigged against America. The Trump administration recently decided to end the exemption for Canada, Mexico and the European Union on aluminum and steel tariffs, of 10 percent and 25 percent.

All we are trying to do here with the 232 tariffs is to provide our domestic industries an opportunity to earn a decent rate of return and invest in this country, White House National Trade Council Director Peter Navarro said on Fox Business After the Bell.

However, several U.S. allies quickly promised to retaliate  and the American agriculture industry may bear the brunt of that pain.

Ben Steffen, a dairy farmer who also grows corn, soybeans and wheat on 1,900 acres in southeastern Nebraska, is angry about the U.S. tariffs being imposed on America's closest trade partners and allies.

I'm upset because it hits me in my pocketbook from multiple angles, he told Yahoo! Finance. I sell beef, I sell corn, I sell soybeans and I sell milk. All of those products are vulnerable because we export significant amounts in those markets.

Farmers are often the first to feel the hit in trade disputes that may not involve their own products, David Salmonsen, senior director for congressional relations at the American Farm Bureau Federation, told the Guardian.

According to the British publication, U.S. agricultural exports are worth about $140 billion a year, with Canada and Mexico importing about $39 billion, Chinas taking $20 billion and the EU about $12 billion. All have threatened retaliation over metal tariffs.

TARIFFS COULD PUSH EUROPE TOWARD RUSSIA, CRITICS SAY

Trump is expected to publish on June 15 a list of $50 billion worth of Chinese technology products to be hit with a 25 percent tariff. The communist country is expected to hit back with a list of its own and U.S. farmers expect they will be at the top of that list.

The tariffs arrive as the U.S. is still trying to fashion a revised North American Free Trade Agreement deal with Canada and Mexico, as well as settle separate trade issues with the EU and China.

They're going to hit the farmers, Bryan Klabunde, a farmer in northwestern Minnesota, told Yahoo! Finance. We want things fair for all industries, but we're going to take the brunt of the punishment if other countries retaliate.

Although a number of prominent Republicans, including House Speaker Paul Ryan, as well as some right-leaning economists, have called for Trump to cool down his rhetoric, it appears the trade war will proceed in the coming weeks and months.

NEW US TARIFFS WOULD MAKE TRADE DEALS VOID, CHINA SAYS

It is just increasing tensions, Jacqueline Varas, the director of immigration and trade policy at the conservative American Action Forum, told the Guardian.

The continuing uncertainty and potential for loss is weighing on the minds of U.S. farmers.

This is the worst possible thing to have for our milk market, and it's the same for every other commodity, Steffen said. These are important relationships.The Philippine president has lashed out at another U.N. human rights expert for making critical remarks about his supposed role in the expulsion of the Supreme Court chief justice.

President Rodrigo Duterte dismissed the remarks of Diego Garcia-Sayan and told him in a televised speech early Sunday not to meddle in domestic problems and "to go to hell." Duterte was replying to a reporter's question before flying on a visit to South Korea.

Garcia-Sayan told reporters in Manila on Thursday that the unprecedented ouster of Maria Lourdes Sereno as chief justice after Duterte lambasted her in public is an attack on judicial independence that could put Philippine democracy at risk.

Duterte has reacted similarly against other U.N. rapporteurs who raised alarm over his deadly campaign against illegal drugs.A resort town in Spain known for a level of debauchery that makes U.S. spring break hotspots like Daytona Beach seem tame by comparison may have managed to top itself on the scale of utter chaos.

The current scandal in Magaluf, where authorities have struggled to repair its out-of-control image, involves rising tensions between  wait for it  Nigerian prostitutes and British expats and tourists.

British expats, who include owners of clubs that cater to tourists and locals, say the prostitutes are behaving badly in the town located in the southwest of the island of Mallorca, known for its beaches and Roman ruins.

The accusations, so far, have less to do with their chosen line of work and more with complaints that the women are targeting vacationers and locals, in some cases with the promise of sex, to commit crimes against them.

An organizer of protests against the prostitutes, some of whom have been seen with knives, told The Sun that the women must get out of Magaluf, saying they have robbed, stabbed, bullied and attacked not only holidaymakers but the residents and seasonal workers of Magaluf.

They told the Sun that the prostitutes and their pimps are assaulting and stealing from tourists and locals, sometimes hurling stones and sticks at them.

The prostitutes  who are said to lack the proper documents to live in Spain and apparently end up in Magaluf through Nigerian crime groups -- say it is the protesters and others who side with them who have crossed the line, harassing and assaulting the women.

They say they are being profiled.

Some five protesters were arrested, charged with hate crimes after about 20 Nigerian prostitutes filed reports with police accusing them of insulting, assaulting and filming them in an effort to harass them. The assaults, the women say, include pepper spray and being beat up, requiring some of them to seek medical treatment, according to several published reports.

The protesters are furious that police have gone after them, and not, as they describe it, the real law-breakers. They vow to continue protesting throughout the summer, when crowds at the party town swell.

"Nobody does anything against the prostitutes who attack and rob our tourists, a bar owner told the Spanish newspaper Ultimahora.es. "We go out to the street to protest and it turns out that now we are the bad guys. I do not understand anything.

Clashes between the prostitutes and tourists and locals have been going on all week, at times turning particularly violent.

One night, protesters chased some of the women off the street, shouting The tourists are not coming because of you. Another yelled: Get out, get out, to a woman who picked up a block of wood.

For years, Magaluf has been both a money-maker and major headache for authorities in the area.

On Sunday morning, a tourist from Ireland was found dead after falling from an apartment in the resort town. The circumstances of the fall were unclear on Sunday; the Irish Times reported that people staying in the building said they heard a noise in the early morning hours. The man is said to be in his 20s.

In April, a 19-year-old Scottish woman vacationing at the resort fell to her death after trying to climb from one balcony to another on the seventh floor, the newspaper said. Police and other officials have tried tightening rules regarding the wild pub crawls and disorderly behavior. Some even pushed for changing the name of the town to give it a totally new identity.

Some incidents have made international headlines, including the fatal falls of three British tourists from balconies in 2012, a growing number of muggings and rapes, and cellphone footage that went viral in 2014 showing a Northern Ireland teenager engaged in oral sex on 24 men during a pub crawl as the D.J. encouraged her, The Guardian reported.

It is time to shout from the rooftops that we dont want this tourism, the Majorca Daily Bulletin said about the incident afterward.

Some people are calling for a heavier police presence.

The protesters say they will keep up the pressure, and will demonstrate every summer night.

They are determined, they told Euroweeklynews.com, to prevent the women from making a living preying on the people of Magaluf. If the police will not do anything about it then we will.next Image 1 of 2

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Pope Francis is urging residents of a mobster-plagued Rome suburb to be courageous and side with the law.

Francis celebrated an outdoor Mass on Sunday evening in Ostia, a seaside town. In his homily, he encouraged people to "knock down" the walls of social codes  known in Italy as "omerta"  that discourage people from denouncing mobsters.

In 2015, Ostia's municipal administration was put under Italian government control because of infiltration by local crime clans. Authorities have accused them of slayings, extortion, drug-trafficking and loan-sharking in Ostia.

The pope also decried abuse of power and arrogance, saying people must embrace "justice, decorum and lawfulness."

Journalists reporting on Ostia's mobsters have been physically threatened.

Francis called on people to shake off "fear and oppression."Syrian President Bashar al-Assad will visit Kim Jong Un in North Koreas capital, the regimes state media announced Sunday, in what would be the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders.

North Koreas state-run Korean Central News Agency said Assad expressed willingness to visit Pyongyang to meet with Kim on May 30 while receiving the credentials for the North Korean ambassador.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet HE Kim Jong Un," Assad was quoted saying, using the acronym HE for His Excellency.

No other details, including when the possible summit may occur, was released.

TRUMP SHOULD DEMAND NORTH KOREAN PLEDGE TO DENUCLEARIZE -- OR WALK AWAY FROM SUMMIT

Assad was also quoted saying he believed Kim would "achieve the final victory and realize the reunification of Korea without fail." KCNA also reported Assad saying the Syrian government would fully support all policies and measures of the DPRK leadership.

If the meeting occurred, it would be the first summit meeting by a foreign leader in Pyongyang. Kim has never hosted a meeting with any other foreign heads of state in the countrys capital.

Assad and Kim seem to have a friendly relationship and are often quoted by KCNA exchanging pleasant remarks and compliments to one another, the Wall Street Journal reported. A United Nations report leaked in February revealed investigators found North Korea was shipping more than 40 items to Syria used for ballistic missile and weapons programs between 2012 and 2017.

NORTH KOREA AND KIM JONG UN: MEET THE KNOWN KEY PLAYERS IN THE REGIME

The announcement comes after President Trump announced the summit between him and Kim was back on for June 12 in Singapore.

North Korea has been pushing for talks with neighbors and allies since the start of the year. Kim recently meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and agreed to denuclearization. The North Korean despot also met with Chinese President Xi Jinping twice in China.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Free Freightnet Membership

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Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.Galveston, TX (77553)

Today

Partly cloudy this evening. Scattered thunderstorms developing after midnight. Low 81F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening. Scattered thunderstorms developing after midnight. Low 81F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 40%.The citys social equity program was created in 2018 to allow those who were targeted for cannabis-related crimes to benefit from legalization.



Haiti - Taiwan : President Moise returns home





On Saturday afternoon, President Jovenel Moise returned to the country, gave at the Diplomatic Salon of Toussaint Louverture International Airport, in the presence of, among others, the Prime Minister, Lafontant, a press briefing on the main points of his stay at Taiwan (Republic of China).



On Monday, May 28, Moses met with Haitian students in Taiwan who are pursuing studies in engineering, agronomy, science and finance, among others. Believing that they can help their country's development, these students, some of whom are already engaged in business in Taiwan, took advantage of the visit of the Head of State to express their desire to return to Haiti in order to participate in its economic expansion.



In the evening the Head of State was invited to a dinner with the Haitian delegation offered in his honor, organized around the theme of the promotion of Taiwanese investments in Haiti.



On Tuesday, the Head of State participated in the signing of a joint statement with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, which aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in many areas. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24534-haiti-politic-towards-new-terms-of-cooperation-with-taiwan.html The statement mentions the establishment of a high-level working group that will draft within 60 days new terms of cooperation for economic and infrastructural development in Haiti as well as potential ways to attract more Taiwanese investors.



In the evening, he spoke with the Taiwanese private sector, which has expressed interest in coming to invest in Haiti on at least two conditions: political stability and electricity.



On Wednesday, May 30, Moses traveled to Taichung (West Central Island), the second largest industrial city in the country, where he visited one of Taiwan's three largest science and technology parks. These parks that are oriented in the fields of biotechnology, robotics and artificial intelligence have already attracted several billion US dollars of investments.



In the electrical infrastructure sector, the President visited two major power plants: the first has a hydroelectric dam with a capacity of 2,600 Megawatts; the second has a large infrastructure producing wind and solar energy.



The Head of State took the opportunity to reiterate his promise of June 2017 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21342-haiti-flash-moise-reiterates-his-promise-of-electricity-24-24-throughout-the-country-in-2-years.html to supply the entire country with electricity 24 hours a day (this time without delay), with prepaid meters, without a word about his meeting with the Taiwan Power Company and his project to electrify 800 MW in Haiti... https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24025-haiti-dr-nearly-35-000-haitians-deported-or-turned-back-in-haiti-since-the-beginning-of-the-year.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24554-haiti-flash-jovenel-moise-relies-on-taiwan-to-electrify-haiti.html



Finally, Moise also reported on his meeting with officials of the Taiwan Ministry of Defense, the management of natural disasters and the strengthening of the army and the National Police.



Moreover, the Head of State has promised to make free broadband internet available to all those who frequent the area of the Champ de Mars...



In summary the President made no announcement during this press briefing...



to be continued...



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24554-haiti-flash-jovenel-moise-relies-on-taiwan-to-electrify-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24534-haiti-politic-towards-new-terms-of-cooperation-with-taiwan.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-24527-icihaiti-taiwan-economist-charlmers-denounces-the-opaque-foreign-policy-of-moise.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24497-haiti-politic-overview-of-the-agenda-of-president-moise-in-taiwan-update.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-24340-icihaiti-energy-42-companies-interested-in-developing-electricity-in-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21342-haiti-flash-moise-reiterates-his-promise-of-electricity-24-24-throughout-the-country-in-2-years.html



HL/ HaitiLibre

















Hawaii--The web is working for Hawaii businesses. Google is helping.

News Release from Google, May, 2018

$171 million of economic activity Google helped provide for Hawaii businesses, website publishers, and nonprofits in 2017.1

$2.07 million of free advertising was provided to Hawaii nonprofits through the Google Ad Grants program in 2017.1

5,300 Hawaii businesses, website publishers, and nonprofits benefited from using Googles advertising tools, AdWords and AdSense, in 2017.1

Sources:

1. Google, Economic Impact,

2017 Note: The total value that U.S. Google advertisers, website publishers, and nonprofits received in 2017 is the sum of the economic impact of Google Search, AdWords, AdSense, and Ad Grants. The value of Google Search and AdWords for businesses is the profit they receive from clicks on search results and ads minus their cost of advertising, estimated as $8 profit for every $1 spent. This formulation is derived from two studies about the dynamics of online search and advertising: Hal Varians Online Ad Auctions (American Economic Review, May 2009) and Bernard Jansen and Amanda Spinks Investigating customer click through behavior with integrated sponsored and non-sponsored results (International Journal of Internet Marketing and Advertising, 2009). The economic impact of AdSense is the estimated amount Google paid to website publishers in 2017 for placing our ads next to their content. And the impact of Google Ad Grants is the total amount spent by grant recipients in 2017. Please note that these estimates do not allow for perfect reconciliation with Googles GAAP-reported revenue. For more information about methodology, visit: www.google.com/economicimpact/methodology.html .

Note: We measured the total number of clicks on ads posted by U.S. advertisers in 2017 and observed that when a business puts an ad on Google, on average over 30 percent of clicks on that ad come from outside the country.

2. Google/Deloitte, Connected Small Businesses,

PDF: DOWNLOAD HAWAII REPORTIn other news, Finland is ranked as having the best education system in the world relative to GDP per capita, while Glamour magazine celebrates the Finnish wellness trend of Pantsdrunk.

Although campaigners have been calling for fur farming to be banned from Finland, the country was responsible for around 2.4 million foxes being farmed for their fur in 2016. Images taken last year by Justice for Animals, a Finnish animal rights group, show the price that Arctic foxes have to pay to fuel Finlands fur industry.

The Arctic foxes that shame the fashion world

The Daily Mail

More than 100 million animals are killed for their fur every year. And while the UK banned fur farming 15 years ago, shoppers are still able to buy imported pelts.

Over the past five years more than 2.5 million of fur items have been imported into the UK from Finland, according to PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), while luxury labels  including Louis Vuitton and Prada  are reported to use, or have used, fox fur in their clothing and accessories.

Campaigners have been calling for fur farming to be banned in Finland, as it has been in many other European countries, including the UK, Austria, the Netherlands, and in the Czech Republic from 2019 onwards.

But these super-size foxes  which reach 40lb, five times their weight in the wild  are so big they can barely move and, according to the Finnish animal rights group, Justice for Animals, represent a new low in the industry.

The group has released the images taken last year by its undercover investigators on five farms in the remote Ostrobothnia region in western Finland, where the majority of the countrys 900 fur farms are located.

Despite a successful campaign in the Nineties led by PETA and fronted by supermodels, including Naomi Campbell, with the slogan Id Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur, the fur industry today is booming.

According to the International Fur Federation, it was worth 29 billion in 2015, up from 11.6 billion in 2011. It remains particularly popular in Italy where it featured prominently at the recent Milan Fashion Week.

In Finland, around 2.4 million foxes (all species) were produced for fur on its farms in 2016. Only China, where animal welfare legislation is all but non-existent, produces more fox fur. Whats more, China has recently been buying most of Finlands fur, followed by Russia.

Original article was published by the Daily Mail on 31/05/2018 and can be found here.

Finland has the best education system in the world relative to GDP

Study International

There are many reasons why you should study in Finland, but as the recent Universitas 21 (U21) rankings show, one great motivator is the world-class efficiency of its higher education system.

Results from the league table say whilst the US system is still top in terms of overall performance, Finland is the true winner when the rankings are adjusted to measure each country relative to their national income levels.

In fact, when adjusted to take into account GDP per capita, Finland takes the lead ahead of the US and UK, traditional favourites in the world of higher education, Eyewitness News reported.

The U21 rankings compare the strengths and weaknesses of individual institutions but, unsatisfied with the measurement of the best higher education system, the rankings were reworked to consider the countries economic standing.

Both Finland and the UK were found to have scored 20 percent above the average level of achievement for countries at their income levels.

The authors measured 24 different indicators to reach their conclusion on the 50 countries the rankings include.

The measures include; expenditure on higher education, government policy, industry links, the diversity of the countrys institutions, enrolment rates, and research performance.

These indicators of performance are then divided up into four categories; resources, policy environment, connectivity, and output.

Original article was published by Study International on 28/05/2018 and can be found here.

Pantsdrunk is the Scandinavian wellness trend we need right now

Glamour

Hygge isnt for everyone. If collective cozying is also not your speed, theres a new Scandinavian lifestyle trend in town that may be. Rather than focus on the aesthetic presentation of well-being, it involves drinking at home in your underwear. Actually, thats all it is. Pantsdrunk is the Finnish self-care phenomenon in which you remove your pantsat homeand drink. Kippis! (That means cheers.)

Actually called kalsarikanni in Finland, which translates (much more logically) to underwear drunk, this is a for-real pastime so legit the countrys ministry of foreign affairs included people drinking in their underwear in an emoji pack that represents Finnish culture. (A man in briefs with a beer for him; a woman sipping red wine in a pink teddy set for her.) In his new book Pantsdrunk: The Finnish Path to Relaxation, out June 5, author Miska Rantanen has translated the concept for Americans.

In his book Rantanen explains that the couch-and-booze habit developed as something of a coping mechanism for people in Finland who already spend a lot of time home alone thanks to what meteorologists have termed the polar night, a punishing winter season during which the sun rarely rises above the horizon and late-fall snow doesnt begin to melt until June. Socializing involves far too much being out of doors and a terrible amount of clothing wearing. I get it.

Original article was published by Glamour on 29/05/2018 and can be found here.

Nordic countries oppose EU plans for digital tax on firms' turnover

The Business Times

Finance ministers of the European Union's three Nordic countries have urged their partners to shelve a plan to tax large corporations for their digital turnover, saying it could damage the European economy.

The call could further weaken the plan proposed by the European Commission in March. It has already attracted criticism from smaller EU states and a lukewarm response from Germany's new government.

"A digital services tax deviates from fundamental principles of income taxation by applying the tax on gross income, i.e. without regard to whether the taxpayer is making a profit or not," Swedish Finance Minister Magdalena Andersson, and her counterparts from Denmark and Finland, Kristian Jensen and Petteri Orpo, said in a joint statement on Friday.

The commission's proposed tax comes amid criticism of large digital companies, like Facebook and Google, who are accused by some EU states of paying too little tax in Europe, exploiting an outdated system that has allowed them to shift profits to low-tax countries like Luxembourg or Ireland.

Original article was published by The Business Times on 01/06/2018 and can be found here.

Finland and China collaborate on clean energy test platforms

Energy Live News

Finland and China have announced they are collaborating to build open international test platforms to develop flexible and clean energy systems.

They have invited international companies and research institutes to facilities in Finlands Aland Islands and the Zhangjiakou Demonstration Zone in China.

The Aland Islands is planned to be a demonstration platform for a flexible energy system, based on smart grids and 100% renewable energy production and use.

Finland says the system will have the ability to integrate distributed renewable energy production into the overall network and quickly respond to fluctuations in demand and supply.

Original article was published by Energy Live News on 27/05/2018 and can be found here.

Dan Anderson  HT

Photo: Lehtikuva / Oikeutta elaimilleFAIZABAD, Afghanistan, June 3 (Xinhua) -- A total of 12 armed insurgents have been killed and 14 others wounded in military operations in northern Afghanistan's Badakhshan province over the past 24 hours, Mohammad Hanif Rezai, spokesman for the army's 209 Shaheen Corps in northern region said Sunday.

Afghan army units, according to the official, launched cleanup operations in Kohistan district of Badakhshan province on Saturday.

There were no casualties on security personnel in the ongoing operations, the official said, adding that the crackdown would last until the militants are wiped out from the area.

Taliban militants are yet to make comment on the clash.As an existing print subscriber it is easy to get FREE access to all our online content.

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After your account is created it will ask you to either add a subscription for online access or click on the print subscriber button. Click the print subscriber button header and it will open a dropdown, now click on get started. The page will reload and you will be prompted to enter an account number and a zip code.

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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.Under the arrangement, Google affiliate Sidewalk Labs will build and run a high-tech "radical mixed-use" site called Quayside.

In the Canadian city of Toronto, city officials are negotiating a project that will give a section of the city's waterfront to the US tech giant Google.

This "smart city" plan involves creating a neighbourhood "from the internet up", powered and served by data; with sensors monitoring everything from air quality to pedestrian traffic, even the flushing of toilets.

Amenities like garbage disposal and goods delivery are to be coordinated and driven by AI and robotics.

The proposed parcel of land isn't huge, but it's not insubstantial either - it covers about half-a-square-kilometre, and there are already suggestions it could be extended.

Modest test-site, grand ambition

An official launch for the project last October was attended by the city's mayor, the premier of Ontario Province and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Trudeau lavished praise on the project, describing it as an "extraordinarily exciting" development that was destined to become "a model for cities around the world."

Sidewalk Labs, the Prime Minister promised, would transform Quayside into "a thriving hub for innovation and a community for thousands of people" while providing unprecedented opportunities for Canadian innovators.

The Google affiliate has already committed more than USD $50 million to the joint planning and pilot-testing phase, and is currently six months into a public consultation period.

For Eric Schmidt, executive chairman of Alphabet  the parent company of both Google and Sidewalk Labs  it's the culmination of a long-held ambition.

"Give us a city and put us in charge," he once famously declared.

Among those enthused by the vision is local urban designer, Ken Greenberg. He says the project could ultimately help cities deal more effectively with major urban issues such as waste management, housing affordability and climate attenuation.

"Ultimately what we are really talking about here are concepts and ideas  tools that could be used generally throughout the urban region, and indeed in cities around the world.

"Think of this as a kind of R&D lab to test the validity of some of these ideas and their feasibility."

Urban lab or Guinea-Pig City?

Sceptics are numerous, and nervous.

Following the Facebook/Cambridge Analytica scandal, some, like Dr Jathan Sadowski at the University of Sydney, worry about the implications of putting a private tech company in charge of both urban development and urban life.

"What's in it for them? It's data," he says.

"It allows them to get really massive amounts of granular data about urban life and urban environments."

He worries that Canadian politicians are being blinded by tech dollars: "City leaders are looking to get a piece of that, and looking for the tech sector as a way to fight against austerity, as a way to win out in this competition for resources over other cities.

But he questions whether Toronto will gain any useful insights from the data collected by Google.



One of the biggest criticisms of the project involves transparency. Despite talk of an extensive public consultation process, those opposing the project say details have been scant, and there's been more hype than clarity.

"So far, they've been given the benefit of the doubt by the media, the general public and more or less all concerned," says London-based author and urbanist, Adam Greenfield.

He points out that tech companies like Google have a track record of opaque dealings and non-transparent operations.

"I think it behoves everyone involved to start asking questions about precisely what it is that's on the table. What are they proposing to do? I think there is an extraordinary lack of clarity about that, to date."

Concerns for democracy

Jason Sadowski also worries about the precedent that might be set for the rights of citizens in a democracy.

Allowing Sidewalk Labs to have charge of civic planning and urban managing, he says, risks eroding the "public good" priorities traditionally associated with city management.

"You'll have a city that's based on, or built around, proprietary platforms, data harvesting, corporate control.

"It really gets to issues around sovereignty, around accountability, and what the public good means and who is to deliver the public good."

Even Ken Greenberg, who has worked as an advisor to the project since 2015, says Sidewalk Labs and Waterfront Toronto have a responsibility to ensure that the project prioritises the needs of citizens.

His involvement, he says, has been predicated on ensuring that human values are not "submerged by the technology".

"I think that's a very critical aspect, and part of this initial formulation of the proposal is focused on those issues of consent and privacy and the anonymity of data. So this is really top of mind, I think, for people in Toronto."

A final decision on approval for the project won't be made until later this year.

Long-term critic of the smart-city concept, Adam Greenfield, says even if the project is given a green light, history shows there's no guarantee of success.

"Generally speaking, installations of network-technology at the scale of the city fail to benefit the public in the way that we are promised.

"We just see this time and time again. They invariably fall short of the very aggressive claims that are made for them."

He cites South Korea's New Songdo City and Masdar in Abu Dhabi as prime examples, both of which failed to live up to their original futuristic-city promise.

"It's really, really hard to assess, certainly in any particularly concrete way, whether technologies that are deployed in this way have ever benefited anybody but the people selling them. They don't seem to shed any greater benefit upon the public."

Future Tense sought an interview with a representative of Sidewalk Labs, but was unsuccessful.

Source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-05-31/concerns-over-google-city-in-toronto/9815446Recognizing the Strategic National Importance of Airports

Translation: French (pdf) Spanish (pdf) Portuguese (pdf)

Sydney - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Deloitte have published guidance materials for governments considering public-private partnerships (PPP) and other forms of privatization programs for airport infrastructure.

Airports provide critical infrastructure. It is important that governments considering privatization or PPP take a long-term view and focus on solutions that will maximize the economic and social benefits of connectivity. The aim of Airport Ownership and Regulation is to help governments make better-informed decisions using best-practices gleaned from decades of experience with the good, the bad and the ugly of airport privatizations, said Alexandre de Juniac, IATAs Director General and CEO.

Airport Ownership and Regulation builds on industry best practice and the results of research into the effectiveness of different ownership and operating models from the perspective of a range of stakeholders. The phenomenal demand for air connectivity is outpacing the capacity of current airport infrastructure and many governments are challenged in finding the effective financing means to enable critical expansion.

The global growth of airports is increasingly putting airports under pressure, increasing the need for governments to explore alternative financing solutions and enhance management efficiency. The current pipeline of airport privatization being considered globally makes this Guidance Booklet timely, and we believe it will support governments to better assess private sector participation options.

There is a critical need to ensure strategic objectives are appropriately assessed and the benefits and risks understood when evaluating airport ownership and operating model options. Whatever ownership or operating model is applied, governments, investors and aviation stakeholders need to put the end-consumer central to the selection of the optimal solution, said Dorian Reece, Global Airport Lead at Deloitte.

Airport Ownership and Regulation explores three key areas in detail:

Assessing the options for models of privatization: Governments should take a broad view of airport ownership and operating models, matching them to the strategic management, financial and macro-economic objectives of inviting private participation in airport infrastructure provision and management.

The spectrum of options is wide, ranging from full government ownership, to forms of corporatization, hybrid models (e.g. service/management contracts); and to those with greater private participation (e.g. equity sales, concessions and full divestiture).

Each has its merits and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. What is critical is the rigor of the assessment process. A key element of that is ensuring that the interests and input of all stakeholders, including airlines and customers, are thoroughly evaluated before decisions are made.

Best Practices for the Process of Privatization: A competitive and transparent transaction process is a must have to assure public value for money. Governments must assure that bids are assessed on balanced criteria and that the key terms of any concession contract ensure improvement in efficiency, quality of service and appropriate investment in the airport for the airlines and the end-consumers.

Regulation of Privatized Airports: The assessment of an airports market power and the development of the appropriate regulatory framework should take place in parallel with an assessment of potential ownership and operating models.

Economic regulation is needed to prevent market abuse, secure efficiencies and ensure service quality. When combined with limited or weak economic regulation, all models (private or public) can lead to adverse outcomes; however, there are additional risks with airports that have private ownership.

Best practice indicates that regulators must be centralized, appropriately funded, independent, have a clearly defined mandate; and be endorsed by governments and defined in legislation. Regular assessment of an airports market power is needed to ensure that the regulatory function remains fit-for-purpose.

Airport Ownership and Regulation was commissioned by IATA and researched by Deloitte. Download the Airport Ownership & Regulation booklet now (free).

Airport Ownership and Regulation was released on the sidelines of IATAs 74th Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit, which has gathered over 1,000 industry leaders in Sydney, Australia.

For more information, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Email: corpcomms@iata.org

Notes for Editors:PYONGYANG, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Sunday slammed the South Korean military for running counter to the spirit of the Panmunjom Declaration by joining two military drills with the United States.

The official DPRK daily Minju Joson said in an article that the South Korean military has dispatched three warships, fighter jets and 700 odd troops to the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) joint military exercises to be held in the waters off Hawaii from June 27.

Seoul also announced that it would launch the annual Ulji Freedom Guardian as scheduled in August, said the article.

"As known, RIMPAC is a DPRK-targeted war drill which has been staged biennially since 1971," it said, adding that seeking military confrontation is "against the unanimous demand of all Koreans and the trend of the times."

DPRK top leader Kim Jong Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in signed the Panmunjom Declaration on April 27, promising to work for national reconciliation and peace of the Korean Peninsula.

The two leaders met again last week to reaffirm their will to implement the declaration.



iciHaiti - France : Preparation of the 3rd Framework Program for State Reform





Josue Pierre-Louis, the General Coordinator of the Office of Management and Human Resources (OMRH) is on a mission to Paris as part of the preparation of the 3rd Framework Program for State Reform (PCRE3) which will be in Haiti between 2018 and 2022.



In this context, he met representatives of several key institutions of state reform in France, including the Ministry of Action and Public Accounts, the Council of State and the Constitutional Council. He also took part in the Latin American and Caribbean Week festivities that take place all over France until June 10 at the initiative of France Diplomatie.



IH/ iciHaiti

















China's People's Liberation Army Air Force recently conducted combat training involving three types of its most advanced fighter jets, carrying air-to-air missiles, which a Chinese expert called a perfect combination.

China's most advanced stealth fighter jet, J-20, conducted joint training with multi-role strike fighter J-16 and multi-role fighter jet J-10C, engaging in air defense penetration drills, China Central Television (CCTV) reported on Thursday.

The fighter jets used domestically developed mid-range air-to-air missile PL-15 and short-range air-to-air missile PL-10 in the training, Beijing-based news website Sina reported on Saturday.

"The three fighter jets and the two missiles are perfect combinations," Song Zhongping, a military expert and TV commentator, told the Global Times on Sunday.

The J-20 is capable of destroying a hostile air defense system. The J-10C can then take air supremacy, while the J-16 can strike enemy ground forces, Song said, adding that using the PL-15 and PL-10 together can cover both long-range and short-range aerial combat.

"The combination will serve as an important aerial deterrent against external forces," Song added.We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Go to formThe nonprofit organization, Overseas Volunteers for a Better India, May 19 held its inaugural fundraiser event at the India Community Center in Milpitas, Calif., and raised $250,000 to help farmers in India. (photo provided)Finding celebrity lookalikes on social media is not new and the fame that comes with the uncanny resemblance can often take one on cloud nine.

Meet Danielle Harris, a 33-year-old from the U.S. claims she gets mistaken for Meghan Markle at least four times a week.



Just to add to the mass confusion, Danielle also got married (back in January 2017) and wore a white wedding dress. So thats two women who are mixed race, have freckles and dark hair, and were once a bride.



Danielles wedding was a little different to Prince Harry and Meghan Markles, mind you, costing $50,000  just 0.001% of the price of the royal wedding.

According to Metro UK,she said:



My husband and I were in the Gucci store in Dallas and they were taking so long to wrap up my things I couldnt understand it, says Danielle. Until all the sales associates came out of the back to meet me. It was so funny. On Friday I was standing in the grocery store line and this old lady in front of me had a magazine with Meghan on it.

She started doing a double take and said Has anyone ever told you.. but I just finished her sentence for her.



Everyone always tells me Danielle, you need to get a job as her double. My husband even jokes that hed be my manager.



It was four years ago when a mutual friend first said to me that I look just like Rachel Zane, Meghans character in Suits. I didnt watch the show then, but I couldnt see the similarities when she showed me the picture.A Nigerian woman has lost her job a week after criticising Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and President Muhammadu Buharis wife, Aisha, on Twitter.

In the July 5, 2017 tweet, Bolouere Opukiri described then-Acting President Osinbajo as a novice for travelling out of the country at a time President Muhammadu Buhari was receiving medical treatment in London and tension was flaring between the executive and the legislature.

Senators had criticised Mr Osinbajos trip the day before, with Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia saying it created a vacuum that Senate President Bukola Saraki should step in to fill.

In another post five days later, Ms Opukiri threw a shade at Mrs Buhari for railing against some hyenas and jackals within her husbands inner circle, suggesting that Ms Buhari might not be as classy as former first lady, Patience Jonathan.

The two tweets and other similar rants against Buhari administration figures were subsequently chronicled by some pro-government netizens and sent to the presidency.

The presidential amnesty office, where Ms Opukiri worked at the media unit, saw her abuse of government official as a threat to national security and summarily dismissed her as recommended by the public service rules.

Ms Opukiri told PREMIUM TIMES her dismissal was a violation of her right to free expression as enumerated in the Constitution and vowed to challenge it in court.

Sacked for prejudicial claim, and state security

Laolu Akande, the spokesperson for Mr Osinbajo, received an e-mail from one of the administrations supporters online with a quibble about Ms Opukiris continued stay in office despite her regular insults against the administration, especially Messrs Buhari and Osinbajo.

If characters like Ms Opukiri continue to work in government, it would portray the administrations online supporters as weak and their loyalty unrewarding, the petitioner said in an e-mail seen by PREMIUM TIMES

Mr Akande forwarded the e-mail to Paul Boroh, then-head of presidential amnesty office, with an annotation: Pls is this correct? according to details of the communication confirmed by PREMIUM TIMES showed.

Mr Boroh did not appear to have responded to Mr Akandes e-mail, but he did order an immediate probe into Ms Opukiris online activities.

Ms Opukiri, 30, learnt of the complaints against her for the first time on July 12. She arrived at work on that Wednesday morning and was immediately summoned by Dedis Abel, then chief of staff at the presidential amnesty office, Ms Opukiri told PREMIUM TIMES.

She said Mr Abel, a retired colonel, told her she was the subject of a petition that came in from the presidency. He then detailed two soldiers to follow Ms Opukiri home to search her apartment for any material that could aid in their investigation of her online activities.

By noon, she appeared before a disciplinary panel and was confronted with printouts of her tweets, one of them was one in which she excoriated Mrs Buhari for her jackals and hyenas comment on July 5.

Ms Opukiri denied all allegations of misconduct in her response to the six-person disciplinary committee, including two women, according to her employee records seen by PREMIUM TIMES. She was not queried, but only made to respond to specific allegations when she faced the committee, all of which bordered on her use of social media.

Ms Opukiri was asked to go home and await further communications after her grilling. The committee went on to recommend Ms Opukiris dismissal when it submitted its report the same day, and she was dismissed the next day, July 13.

Her dismissal letter, seen by PREMIUM TIMEES, said she made false claims against a government official in her July 5 tweet. The claims were prejudicial to state security and also inimical to the image of the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Niger-Delta Affairs.

The office based its actions on public service rule (PSR) 030407, which defines false claims against government officials as a serious misconduct for which an employee should be dismissed as ultimate penalty.

Ms Opukiri was posted to the amnesty office as an in-house consultant on the re-integration of rehabilitated Niger-Delta militants as part of the amnesty programme launched by late President Umar YarAdua.

Tidal Streams, an outsourcing firm, which was Ms Opukiris primary employer, was given prior notice of her dismissal, the sack letter said. As an in-house consultant for a government agency, Ms Opukiri could be subjected to public service rules, according to senior civil servants who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES about the nature of her employment, including a permanent secretary and a director.

Ms Opukiris employment letter implored her to be responsible in her conduct while on the job, but did not include a specific guideline about what she could engage in on social media.

Ms Opukiri said she was told that Mr Akande and other presidency officials mounted pressure for her dismissal. PREMIUM TIMES was unable to independently verify this claim.

She said the complaints were sent to Mr Akande following an online brawl she had with Segun Dada, another pro-government commentator on Twitter.

He insulted me as a fat woman and I responded that he should be the last person to call anyone fat because his wife is also fat by nature, Ms Opukiri said.

Mr Dada confirmed exchanging tense tweets with Ms Opukiri, which they both mutually deleted later, but strongly denied the allegations, telling PREMIUM TIMES he had never owned an iPad which was used to send the complaints to Mr Akande as indicated by the e-mail server.

I have not and will never be personally responsible for anyone losing their job, Mr Dada told PREMIUM TIMES in a message.

Mr Boroh could not be reached for comments. He was fired as head of amnesty office by Mr Buhari in March. His successor, Charles Dokubo, did not return PREMIUM TIMES requests for comments throughout the week. A spokesperson for the amnesty office made promises to return enquiries about matter but failed repeatedly.

Months after her dismissal, Ms Opukiri was re-engaged early last month by Double Helix Nigeria Limited, a new outsourcing firm contracted by the amnesty office, but she was asked to stop work within the first week. Tidal Streams had been dropped by the office shortly after Ms Opukiri left.

She said Mr Dokubo was asked to dismiss her again when he visited the State House early May.

They told him they were aware that I had been reinstated and he immediately took steps to get me fired once again to avoid offending the presidency, Ms Opukiri said. PREMIUM TIMES saw the May 2 employment offer from Double Helix, but could not independently verify claims that Mr Dokubo ordered her termination under pressure from the State House.

Emilia Achor, head of human resources at Double Helix, said the firm rescinded Ms Opukiris offer letter because it had the rights to do so. She offered no further explanation.

A telephone number for Tidal Streams did not connect.

Mr Akande also did not return PREMIUM TIMES requests for comments.

Emerging pattern?

Analysts said the dismissal followed a trend of intolerance that has seen critics of the government being targeted.

Cheta Nwanze, a political and security analyst with SBM Intelligence, said in 2016 SBM was on the verge of sealing a contract when at the last minute the other party pulled out without explanation.

Mr Nwanze said a few months later he met a member of the other group who told him he had been reported because of his activities online. Mr Nwanze campaigned vigorously for Mr Buharis election in 2015. He said fell out with Mr Buhari after some early controversies by the administration. He regularly clashes with pro-government handles on Twitter.

Also, when Dipo Awojide, a disillusioned supporter of Mr Buhari, started raising his voice against the administration in 2016, he was reported to his employers at Nottingham Trent University in the UK.

Mr Awojide declined comments to PREMIUM TIMES about the matter, but he disclosed it on Twitter at the time.

PREMIUM TIMES also learnt of at least two other persons whose online activities were reported to their employers. They, however, declined to comment for this story and requested that their names should not be mentioned to avoid any backlash.

Free speech or recklessness?

Federal civil service rules have long been used to punish public officials for being critical of the government or senior officials, a practice that has continued to elicit mixed reactions from commentators.

Ms Opukiris dismissal came three years after the Nigerian government sacked an official of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for penning a critique of former finance minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

In the March 5, 2013 article, Yushau Shuaib, then NEMA spokesperson, highlighted a slew of complaints bordering on nepotism against Ms Okonjo-Iweala. He was subsequently queried, compelled to appear before a disciplinary panel and summarily dismissed.

Mr Shuaib challenged his dismissal in court. In November 2017, the National Industrial Court declared Mr Shuaibs dismissal illegal and ordered his immediate reinstatement with full payment from the day of his sack in 2013.

More than six months later, Mr Shuaib has not been reinstated because the information minister, Lai Mohammed, who criticised the dismissal while an opposition spokesperson in 2013, appealed the ruling.

Nelson Ekujumi, a civil rights activist and public affairs analyst, said Ms Opukiri was reckless with her comments online and her dismissal would serve as a warning to other would-be critics of the government to be more circumspect about their public conduct.

Your right to free speech is not absolute, Mr Ekujumi said. You cannot express your free speech to libel and slander people.

Your right to free speech does not allow you to make hate speech or make false allegations against people, be it a public official or a private citizen, he added.

Mr Ekujumi said the amnesty office committed no wrongdoing since it followed the public service rules in dismissing Ms Opukiri.

But rights activist, Inibehe Effiong, condemned the governments action as extremely disproportionate.

Mr Effiong, a Lagos-based lawyer, said the amnesty office should have forwarded complaints to Ms Opukiris primary employer rather than taking the action directly.

Still, even the public service rules applied against Ms Opukiri could be challenged in court because of obvious inconsistencies with the Constitution, Mr Effiong said.

Chapter one of the PSR said the the rules applied only to the extent that they are not inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in so far as their conditions of service and any other law applicable to these officers are concerned.

The public service rules cannot override Section 39 of the Constitution which accorded all individuals a right to freedom of expression, Mr Effiong said.

Chris Ngwodo, a political analyst, said Ms Opukiri was serving at the pleasure of the president and should not have used her social media account to issue uncomplimentary remarks against his administration.

According to Mr Ngwodo, while Mrs Buhari is not a public official but a public figure, Ms Opukiris reference to the Vice President in her posts, meant that her dismissal letter was accurate in describing her as having attacked a government official.

Even so, the analyst said Ms Opukiri could seek legal counsel for clarification of any potential ground for challenging her dismissal.

Story from PREMIUMTIMES. Orginal Article can be found here.

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commentsSocial media users, especially Catholics, have reacted in outrage after photos of a female Evangelist lifting the Monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament surfaced online.

Traditionally, in the Catholic church, only the priests are allowed to carry the Monstrance and it is considered a sacred object because it contains the Blessed Sacrament believed to be the body and blood of Jesus Christ.

Which is why the photo of a non-catholic female evangelist lifting it during a prayer session has sparked outrage.

While a lot of people have called out the female evangelist and her members, others have pointed out that what she is carrying isnt the Blessed Sacrament because it wasnt done In the Catholic church and hasnt gone through consecration.

Reactions below:

Leave a Comment

commentsA BBC investigation a few months ago, brought to bare the level of codeine addiction in Nigeria, and immediately the production of codeine-based cough syrup was banned in Nigeria. However, Another painkiller, Tramadol, apart from codeine is fuelling widespread addiction across Africa and invariably Nigeria.

What is Tramadol?

Prescription drug

Primarily a painkiller

Can treat mild depression or premature ejaculation

Tramadol is only legally available on prescription in Nigeria

But in practice its sold freely in pharmacies and at market stalls across the country

Much of the Tramadol coming into Nigeria is made in India

How it gets into Nigeria

At the choked port of Lagos, an officer from the NDLEA orders men to break open a container with a crow bar. Stacked from top to bottom are boxes of an over-the-counter painkiller, but hidden behind them are thousands of packets of Tramadol.

The brand is Super RolmeX. On the packet it says Made in India, for export only. That is because the dosage  at 225mg  is more than twice what is legal in most countries.

It says its manufactured for Sintex Technologies Ltd in London, England, but a quick search on the UK companies register online shows that company was dissolved in 2012.

The UN say Tramadol is being smuggled into Africa from South Asia by international criminal gangs, with yearly seizures in sub-Saharan Africa rising from 300kg (661lb)per year to more than three tonnes since 2013, according to a report in December.

Why is it so prevalent in Nigeria?

Firstly it is cheap  in Nigeria its about $0.05 for 200mg as opposed to about $2.50 in the US, and secondly its ability to help people work. Across Africa, many people rely still on manual labour to get paid.

Why has the WHO so far resisted putting international controls on its trade?

There are fears limiting access to the drug would cut people off who really need it: it is one of the few painkillers widely available to treat pain for cancer patients.

It can also be brought in pretty easily to crisis and emergency situations, says Gilles Forte, secretary of the group responsible for reviewing Tramadol at the WHO.

If its scheduled it becomes difficult to move it from one country to another, he explains.The missile destroyer Jinan of the People's Liberation Army Navy arrives at Mayport naval stations in Jacksonville, Florida, during a visit to the US on Nov 3, 2015. [Photo/VCG]

There was more bickering between China and the United States at the 17th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on the weekend.

And given the provocative actions US warships have repeatedly taken in the South China Sea due to Washington's miscalculations of what China has done in its attempt to defend its own territorial waters, it is necessary for both militaries to sit down and talk.

It is beyond doubt that whether the world's largest developed country and largest developing country can better manage their differences is the key to peace and development in the Asia-Pacific and the world at large.

The US military should never underestimate the resolve of its Chinese counterpart to defend its territorial integrity and its sovereignty. Both sides need to do whatever they can to prevent any contingencies from escalating into a direct conflict.

What is badly needed is mutual trust. And communication is the way to establish that trust. More communication will help each side better understand each other's bottom lines and thus know where to toe the line. More communication will also help both sides to work out ways to better manage or even shelve their differences.

As far as the South China Sea is concerned, China has no intention of interfering with freedom of navigation except for its efforts to defend its own territorial waters. In addition, China has reiterated that it will do its utmost to solve or manage the territorial disputes with its neighbors through dialogue.

As for the Taiwan question, there has been no misunderstanding between the US and China about the islands status. The situation across the Taiwan Straits should not deteriorate unless the island authorities misinterpret any message from the US or the latter sends a wrong signal bolstering the nerve of secessionists on the island. Either one will likely become the source of increased tensions across the Straits.

US Secretary of Defense James Mattis said in Singapore that the US would continue to pursue cooperation whenever possible, and that he would visit Beijing soon at Chinas invitation. He also mentioned that the US military will seek to strengthen mutual trust with its Chinese counterparts.

Patience on the part of the US military is needed to listen to what its Chinese counterpart say about the South China Sea and about what Chinas military has done there. And it is also imperative for the US to understand where Chinas core interest lies and its needs as a rising power in terms of its defense strategy.Toshiba has sold its chip unit for $18 billion to a consortium of companies led by U.S. private equity firm Bain Capital. The consortium includes companies like Apple, Dell, Seagate, SK Hynix, and Kingston.

The $18 billion deal was supposed to be completed by March but was delayed due to a prolonged review by Chinese antitrust authorities who approved the deal last month. Toshiba will continue to own 40 percent of its NAND storage business as a part of its agreement with Bain Capital. The company had to sell its highly profitable NAND business after its Westinghouse nuclear plant went bankrupt and it faced heavy losses.

Toshiba has granted each of Innovation Network Corporation of Japan and Development Bank of Japan, both of which have expressed interest in investing in Pangea, instruction rights for 16.7 percent of its voting rights, the company said in its statement.

Apple had reportedly put in $3 billion in Bain Capital for the deal which gives it around 16 percent share in Toshibas NAND business. By acquiring Toshibas NAND business, Apple will now be able to secure itself a steady supply of NAND chips for its devices. It would also manage to immune itself to a great extent from the ups and downs in prices of NAND chips which largely occurs due to supply outages. Apart from Toshiba, Apple also sources NAND chips from Samsung, SanDisk, and SK Hynix.

[Via ZDNetHome  Just In  BIMSTEC summit likely in August last week or September first week

Kathmandu, June 3

The Government of Nepal has proposed that it hold the fourth summit of Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) in the last week of August or the first week of September.

A meeting of Council of Ministers held on Sunday decided to float the proposal of holding the summit on August 30-31 or September 6-7 in Nepal to member states.

Nepal is due to hold the fourth summit of regional body comprising Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Earlier, the summit was scheduled for 2017, but was postponed later.

Government spokesperson and Minister for Communications and Information Technology Minister Gokul Banskota informs that the government also formed various panels to prepare for the summit.

Meanwhile, the government also decided to table a bill on the Administrative Court in Parliament.

Likewise, the government decided to launch the second phase of Student Enrolment Campaign as around 59,000 students of school age were found to be out of schools.Kathmandu, June 3

Constitutional anti-corruption watchdog, Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority, has launched a probe into reports that officials of Bir Hospital embezzled as much as Rs 2 billion from the state coffers in past few years.

On the other hand, National Vigilance Centre has launched another investigation.

The two bodies have received a 84-point complaint citing instances of corruption and irregularities in Nepals oldest health facility. Earlier, the annual report of Auditor General had also cited some irregularities in the facility.

The report informed that around Rs 100 million was embezzled in purchase of CT scan machines. It had also mentioned irregularities in the purchase of equipment for National Trauma Centre and renewal of registration of pharmacies at the hospital premises.

It has been learned that the investigation will cover a wide range of officials from top guns to office assistants.Join Pakistan Air Force PAF as Officer in Medical Branch

Latest Pakistan Air Force PAF Air Force Posts Peshawar 2021 Join Pakistan Air Force PAF as Officer in Medical Branch Specialists SPSSC Through Offers Commission in 122 Combat Support Course SPSSC in Pakistan. for Online Registration visit joinpaf.gov.pk

How to Apply on Pakistan Air Force PAF Job Advertisement

Apply as per details in job advertisement. In some cases, you may apply online at vacancies after registering at https://www.jobz.pk online.



Telephone: 0322-5270013

Official Website: www.joinpaf.gov.pk

Note: Beware of Fraudulent Recruiting Activities. If the employer asks you to pay money for any purpose including processing to shortlisting, do not pay at all and report us using our contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs cannot be applied online here. Error & omissions excepted.Join Pakistan Air Force PAF in Medical Branch Specialists

Latest Pakistan Air Force PAF Medical Posts Lahore 2021 Join Pakistan Air Force PAF in Medical Branch Specialists SPSSC Officer Commission in 122 Combat Support Course SPEEC in Pakistan. For Online Registration Visit joinpaf.gov.pk.

How to Apply on Pakistan Air Force PAF Job Advertisement

Apply as per details in job advertisement. In some cases, you may apply online at vacancies after registering at https://www.jobz.pk online.



Telephone: 051-9507151

Official Website: www.joinpaf.gov.pk

Note: Beware of Fraudulent Recruiting Activities. If the employer asks you to pay money for any purpose including processing to shortlisting, do not pay at all and report us using our contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs cannot be applied online here. Error & omissions excepted.Major Nepali and English broadsheet dailies published from Kathmandu on Sunday have highlighted a wide range of issues from political, economic and sociocultural spheres. Nepal Oli Corporations decision to hike the price of petroleum products has received a wide attention from newspaper editors whereas internal issues of the Nepal Communist Party and the Nepal Congress have also been major concerns for them.

Important

Fuel prices go up

Many newspapers published from Kathmandu on Sunday have published the news about hike in the price of petroleum products as decided by the government-run Nepal Oil Corporation because it is the second hike in the span of two weeks.

According to the new tariff, a litre of petrol will cost Rs 113 whereas a litre of diesel and kerosene will cost Rs 93 from Sunday.

Gorkhapatra quotes NOC spokesperson Birendra Goit says that the new price structure will also keep the fuel distributor monopoly in loss as the fuel price is steadily going up in the international market.

Nagarik says the NOC hiked the price as the new price list obtained from Indian Oil Corporation, which supplies petroleum products to Nepal, has mentioned increased prices as per the international rate.

Nepal-India EPGs last meeting in June last week

The meeting of Nepal-India Eminent Persons Group will be held on June 29 and 30 in Kathmandu to discuss replacing the 1950 Peace and Friendship Treaty and other issues related to open border, according to Naya Patrika. India had proposed to hold the meeting on the date.

Ignored

CIAAs slow pace mars corruption probe

Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has failed to carry out investigations into major corruption scams at present. The anti-corruption body has not filed any big corruption charges and failed to catch any big fish, reports Republica.

Staff crunch affecting justice delivery

Shortage of staff at the Supreme Court among other courts of the country has affected the delivery of justice to general public, according to Annapurna Post lead story. Verdict of cases are pending for two years and the Court has failed its target to settle 60 per cent cases by now, according to the report.

As per the constitutional provision, the judicial system will remain centralised despite the country adopting federal system.

New law sought to govern sentence pardon

In the wake of pardon handed down to murder convict Maoist leader Bal Krishna Dhungel, the lead story of The Himalayan Times reads that experts have said a new law must be sought to govern the process to pardon, waiver, suspension and communication of prisoners jail sentence and prevent the political parties from misusing legal loopholes. The Federal Parliament, however, is yet to enact such laws.

Rastrakabi returns home, healthy

Gorkhapatra says Rastrakabi Madhav Prasad Ghimire has returned home on Saturday after successfully undergoing treatment at New Delhis Medant Hospital. He will go to the Indian capital around a month later again for a followup checkup, according to the poets daughter Usha Adhikari.

Ghimire had gone to Delhi around 10 days ago after his internal bleeding did not stop.

Nepali Congress leaders working on  internal unity

Pushed into the status of a small main opposition following the historically humiliating defeat in recent parliamentary and provincial elections, the Nepali Congress is looking forward to strengthening its internal unity, Rajdhani reports in a three-column story. Now, the party is planning to make it strong again by mobilising its organisational mechanisms and cadres, according to the report.

Meanwhile, the party is also planning to amend its charter through a mahasamiti meeting whereas a meeting of the partys district presidents has been called to take stock of ground level situation.

Number of reconstruction grant recipients goes up

The National Reconstruction Authority has found that the number of people verified to receive post-earthquake reconstruction grant has gone up as the Authority conducted a survey in 13 local units of quake-affected districts again, according to Gorkhapatra.

The number of recipients has increased by 2,078 whereas the number of families wish for retrofitting has been found just 263 in these areas, according to the report.

Interesting

Nepal will witness early monsoon this year

Nepal will witness the monsoon rains quite earlier than past years this time, according to reports in Nepal Samacharpatra and Rajdhani. In general, the rains begin in Nepal around June 10, but this time it will be quite early it will begin within next few days, Nepal Samacharpatra informs.

Meanwhile, with an aim to prevent hundreds of people from rain-related disasters, the government has come up with Monsoon Emergency Work Plan 2018. The government has started works for minimising the loss of lives and property. The work plan also outlines responsibilities and roles of different governmental and non-governmental agencies during and after disasters, the anchor story in The Kathmandu Post reads.Home  Just In  Rastrakabi Ghimire returns to Nepal, but is hospitalised again

Kathmandu, June 3

A day after returning home from medical treatment in India, Rastrakabi Madhav Prasad Ghimire has again been admitted to Tokha-based Grande International Hospital on Sunday.

The 99-year-old popular poet has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia (double pneumonia) and is being treated at the ICU of the hospital, informed doctors.

He had been admitted to the hospital earlier as well due to heart, kidney and lungs-related ailments.

Ghimire was taken to Medanta Hospital in New Delhi of India on May 23 for treatment after his internal bleeding failed to stop here.The view of a mountain range from space looked so spectacular that NASA Astronaut Dr Sandra Magnus enlisted Nepal on her bucket list and decided to visit this Himalayan country as early as she could make it.

Born and brought up in Illinois of the United States, it was in middle school when she decided to become an astronaut. She then earned a degree in physics and electrical engineering from University of Missouri-Rolla and a PhD in material science and engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology in 1996.

The astronaut, now 53, headed on her first space mission, STS-112, in 2002 and International Space Station in 2008. Dr Magnus has spent 134 days in space. She took about 18,000 photos while in space.

She is on a private visit to Nepal for the past two months. Onlinekhabar caught up with Dr Sandra Magnus for a quick interview to tame the inquisitive minds with her ideas and experiences about space, space missions and her overall experience as an astronaut:

Can you tell us how a day in space looks like?

Yeah, it is kind of a normal work day, except for the fact that we are in space. We get up in the morning, we have some time to have breakfast and get ourselves ready for work. Then, we have a daily planning conference, which takes place with all of the control centres around the world. They have created our schedule for the day. So, we have a list of work that they would like for us to get done. Our daily planning conference is all about us understanding what they are requesting, and then we just start following the schedule that they have built for us.

We have lunch. We make sure we exercise. Exercising is very important as astronauts tend to lose body minerals in space. And then, in the end of the work day, which is about eight and half hours including the exercise, we have another conference with all of the control centres and we report another work plan and ask questions about the next day schedule and we just do general talking. The ground turns the video camera off.

We relax in the evening, have dinner, sometimes it is useful to find the equipment you need for the next day because that needs some time, call our family, do emails, look out of the window, take pictures, we go to the bed, we get up the next day and repeat the schedule.

How has your space travel experience during various missions changed your understandings, views and beliefsabout this world, and beyond?

So, when you are outside the planet and looking down on it, its immediately obvious that it is one planet. Every astronaut that flies into space will come back with the same information. You cannot see border of countries, you just see one plain. And it is sort of like our spaceship, right? We are all crew in that spaceship. So, it is obvious that everything that happens on the planet is all connected to everything else that happens on the planet. Also, you dont take it for granted. For example, Nepal has beautiful nature. Because you live here, you probably do not notice it as much cause you take it for granted as you see it every day. But me, coming into the country and having a chance to tour around, I feel, Oh my goodness, it is so beautiful here!

Same thing, you getting off the planet and looking at it is like, Oh my goodness, our planet is so special. So, you learn not to take the planet for granted. We have to take care of it.

What are the preparations an astronaut does before heading on a mission?

When we are first selected into the astronaut core, we have two years of training. And we are training under all of the technology and engineering that goes into building a spacecraft that we fly. Spacewalk, robotics, photography, Russian language, medical operation we are trained under these things. Then we are eligible for a flying assignment. If it is a shuttle mission, we are trained for another year, specifically for what we are going to do on that mission.

When we train for a space station mission, it takes a longer period of time. I trained for three and half years again on everything that is possible to happen on a space station. Nowadays, the training is for two and half years. Being an astronaut means you are a school student for a very long period of time.

What is the role of astronomy in common peoples day-to-day life?

Astronomy is, of course, the study of stars and the universe. I think people are fascinated with the photos. On everyday basis, I think when people see everyday pictures of the stars, like Hubble space telescope has brought back so many spectacular pictures. I think when people see those pictures, it sparks curiosity, awe and wonder. And, those feelings can carry over into our daily lives and keep us alive as human beings are always questioning things and continues to allow us to grow. Astronomy taps that part of us that likes to explore and is enthralled by the mystery of the universe.

For me, astronomy is an elite business. It has nothing to do with people struggling to meet basic daily needs. How can you connect what you have been doing and what people in my country are struggling with?

I would use Langtang Valley as an example. As I was hiking in Langtang Valley, I noticed people were using solar shelves to heat water so they can have hot water very easily. They dont have to cut down trees and boil water. The solar shelves came from the space industry because we needed to figure out how to generate electricity in space and it had to be sustainable. So, we can take the suns energy, create a solar shelf and turn that heat into electrical energy. Now, after a long period of time, as we needed to make solar shelves in space and improve them to make more efficient. They have become cheaper and more affordable and now, they are lighting the Valley, heat the water, right?

So, that has a direct applicability to people in Nepal. Now this evolution of technology does not happen overnight. It may take a decade or two. But there are people who are creating new technologies anywhere in the world; it means that eventually those technologies will be available to everybody else in the world. And, space requires an incredible advance of technology just to operate whether it is just to machine or human. And that is the applicability to the people here in Nepal, which is already happening.

What are the common and uncommon things you do in space?

Well, commonyou eat, you work just like a normal life. It is just that youre doing it in space. The uncommon aspect we do is floating. So, you imagine living your daily life that way you do but now you are in the environment where everything you touch and everything you do and everywhere you move is all floating. So, think about your kitchen, and your bedroom at home. Things are sitting on shelves. If you were in space, they would not be sitting on shelves cause it has no gravity. So, you have to think in space differently about everyday life and that is the uncommon part as everything is floating all the time.

No Nepali has ever been an astronaut. What steps can our country take to end this crisis?

Well, first of all, it is extremely important to excite your youth about studying science, mathematics, engineering and technology because that is the language that we speak when we are in space. Those are the skills you need. Just like if you are going to be a medical doctor, you must understand the human body. If you are going to engage in space exploration, well as a Nepali astronaut or a really smart Nepali engineer just helping develop the equipment that flies in space, you have to be able to speak science and maths, understand engineering and be comfortable with technology.

So, these are the tiny ways to excite your youth and show them, both males and females, that this is a wonderful opportunity for them to create the workforce and excitement. And, they will be very integral in where you might find an astronaut or how they might make connections internationally with people who have shared interest to create collaborative projects that will bring knowledge and opportunity to people in Nepal. But, you have to get them excited in science and engineering.

How did you feel about Nepalis and their interest in astronomy and universe? What are the aspects that Nepal should consider in the field of science and technology that contributes to its overall development?

Everyone is always excited to hear about space. I dont care where you live in the planet. People are always fascinated about the idea of exploring space and I find that no different here in Nepal. I had the opportunity to speak at two schools and Nepal Academy of Science and Technology. They are very curious, eager and excited about the science subject. Space is actually a way that many countries use to excite their youth about science and technology because it is a natural thing that people are interested in.

I talk about this with several people as I have been living in the country for two months now. As I moved around the country, I can see civil engineering is very important because you have dealt with the earthquakes and now you are building roads and understand how to survive such earth shaking. You have hydroelectric power here. How you collect that energy and create those power plants, store and distribute, conservation and environmental science  I think there is a lot of natural engineering and science disciplines that the country can build of.

What is the future of astronomy in the world?

Well, the future of expedition in space, whether it is astronomy or humans, is growing. There are so many countries involved globally sending satellites, humans into space, and interested in collaborating in space programmes together. These arrangements are both multilateral like the space station programme in which 16 countries are working together, or bilateral like the programmes between Nepal and Japan to send a cube satellite up. These agreements are happening all over the world.

It would be lovely to see Nepal engage in more of that. It has a wonderful future here.

Now let us get back to some basic questions. How does it feel to identify yourself as an astronaut?

I feel very fortunate to have gotten to do the things that I have done. It was a dream of mine and I was very lucky to have my dream come true. I take the responsibility very seriously which is why I try talking to students whenever I get opportunities to. I feel very lucky to call myself an astronaut.

What is the best thing about being in space?

I have to say there are two best things, I cannot say one. Okay, one is living without gravity. Being able to float all the time is really awesome. And also, looking out and seeing our earth go by, and having all those beautiful views of our earth available all the time. It is so amazing.

What are the biggest hurdles you faced till date?

Usually my hurdles are self-inflicted. I have to make sure that I learn lessons I am supposed to be learning from everyday experience and grow in appropriate way. Even though I am a woman in a male-dominated field, I have had good respect from my colleagues. I feel that is because I am trying to be professional, and I work really hard. That gains more respect. So, I feel that is true for anyone and any field. If you try those things, you are going to be doing very well. I think the biggest problem is I do not have enough time for things I want to do.

Anything you wish to do if got chance to go to space again?

Oh, I would love to go again. Going back and living on the space station would be really wonderful. The possibility to go to the moon and mars is very intriguing, although I might not be the right age for that. Just the idea of exploring new things is very exciting.HARMONY, Minn.  A distillery is coming to southeastern Minnesota, and its expected to give a boost to local businesses.

Its called Harmony Spirits, and its three owners broke ground on its site on Tuesday after years of it being just an idea.

We were discussing how we really would like to have something local that we could all visit, Jim Simpson, one of the owners, said, and that conversation turned to we should do this.

The other two owners are Larry Tammel and Andy Craig. They plan to use locally grown products to make their liquor.

I think we're gonna support all the other local business that are here as well, Simpson said.

One of those being Preston Liquor, which is about 10 miles down the road. Joe Lafreniere owns it.

Anything I can bring in local people seem to like, Lafreniere said. You know everyone's looking for something local.

He thinks itll boost people shopping local.

I wanna see what, what's being made in the area, Lafreniere said. What the flavor is, you know, what local ingredients are in it that you can pick out from something like being mass produced from somewhere else.

After construction, the plan is to start distilling vodka and whiskey first.

It's been quite a process ya know, Simpson said. There's a lot of permits, a lot of regulations. So we're just excited to get the building up and get our equipment in there and get licensed and be ready to make an exceptional product that everybody can enjoy with us.

Owners hope to have the building up by July, and start distilling pending their permit.ROCHESTER, Minn.- A local activist group cure is making claims that Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson is helping to detain immigrants. The group is called Communities United for Rochester Empowerment or CURE, tells KIMT that they have people who have been victimized by law enforcement here in Rochester.

Che Lopez is the lead organizer of the protest. He said many of his family and friends have been asked by law enforcement about their immigration status.

t's not fair to be living in this type of fear.

As news of the protest came to light. Sheriff Torgerson said law enforcement has been working with local diversity groups to ease tension and educate the public. Sheriff Torgerson wants to stress that the sheriff's office does not go out and arrest immigrants in order to detain them based on their immigration status.

But Che Lopez said he will continue to work to improve immigration policy here in Minnesota and that he isn't going to take the word from the law enforcement when victims voice their concerns.

We need to make sure that he's just not giving us any lip service we need to make sure that his actions speak louder than what he's telling us. ROCHESTER, Minn. -- The Democratic Farmer Labor party completed the second day of the DFL convention.

On Saturday, DFL delegates voted to endorse Matt Pelikan for Attorney General and Erin Murphy for Governor.

On Friday, they endorsed Steve Simon for Secretary of State, Amy Klobuchar for Senate Seat A, and Tina Smith for Senate Seat B.

The party has a final endorsement to vote on tomorrow, the final day of the convention. Delegates will decide if Jon Tollefson or Julie Blaha will be the party's endorsed candidate.WORTH COUNTY, Iowa - Authorities have identified a 'person of interest' in Saturday night's stabbing in Worth County.

The Worth County Sheriff's Office is looking for Trapp Leroy Trotter Jr., a 31-year-old black male. He's being described as 5'8, 289 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. They say he has a tattoo of his wife's name on his neck and a cross on his face.

If you see him, authorities warn to not aprroach as he is considered armed and dangerous.

PREVIOUS STORY:

WORTH COUNTY, Iowa - A victim was stabbed multiple times Saturday night in Northwood.

The victim, whose name hasnt been released, was transported to Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa, for non-life threatening injuries.

Authorities said it happened 10:48 p.m. at 604 7th St. N.

Charges are expected to be filed.#MLB One-time Ranger Yang Hyeon-jong poised for KBO reunion with Tigers Now a free agent, one-time Texas Rangers pitcher Yang Hyeon-jong appears headed back to the only South Korean club he's played for. The Kia Tigers of the Korea Baseball Organiza...Reading proficiency for Iowa students in kindergarten through third grade improved from 63.4 percent in 2017 to 67.6 percent in 2018. (Pixabay)



By Dong Sun-hwa





Kang Daniel of Wanna One and Mark of NCT are roommates on season 2 of MBC's reality show "It's Dangerous Beyond the Blankets Season."







In that episode of the program, which shows stay-at-home-type celebrities spending holidays together, Kang pulls age on Mark.







Guess how much older Kang is than Mark. Only three years.







Kang first asks Mark how old he is. When he says 20, Kang reveals his age: 23. He acts as if the difference of three makes him an adult and Mark a child.







"I have had a roommate as young as 20 for the first time," Kang told Mark as he held out his hand for Mark to shake, while suggesting they share the room. Mark, a Korean-Canadian, reacted with a mild sense of disapproval.







This season, Kang, Mark, actor Lee Yi-kyung who starred in the JTBC drama "Welcome to Waikiki," and Yong Jun-hyung from Korean boy band Beast headed to Danang, Vietnam, to enjoy their holidays together.







Kang appeared recently on JTBC's cooking show, "Please Take Care of My Refrigerator" and Mark's group NCT127 released a Japanese album "Chain" on May 23.









Filmmaker Kim Ki-duk. / Korea Times file



By Dong Sun-hwa, Jung Min-ho



Kim Ki-duk, an internationally acclaimed filmmaker accused of raping an actress last year, claims she and other actresses have defamed him with false allegations.

According to industry sources Sunday, he recently filed a complaint with the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, accusing three actresses and journalists of false accusations and defamation.

Kim was accused of abusing his power to force the actress, whose identity is being withheld, to have sex with him and touch the private parts of an actor while filming his movie, "Moebius," which was released in 2013.

The actress later brought the case to the prosecution, which dropped it in December due to lack of evidence. Kim was fined 5 million won ($4,650) for slapping her in the face.

But the issue resurfaced after MBC's program "PD Notebook" shed light on it in March, with two other actresses accusing Kim of sexual harassment._ Switzerland ideal place for multinational firms, startups _

By Yoon Ja-young



Deregulation has been a priority of each administration, but businesses still suffer from multiple regulations here. They may learn from Switzerland, which has topped global innovation rankings for the past several years.



"All our administrations try to regulate as much as needed, but as little as possible," said Sonja Wollkopf Walt, CEO of the Greater Zurich Area AG, when asked how regulations are different in Switzerland compared to Korea. The organization promotes and markets the Greater Zurich Area economic region, helping international companies settle in one of most vibrant economic centers in Europe that covers the cantons around Zug and Zurich. The lawyer who started her career as a consultant with PWC, joined Greater Zurich Area AG in 1999. She has been heading the organization since 2010, implementing its new strategies and objectives.



Sonja Wollkopf Walt, Greater Zurich Area AG CEO

Different than in Korea, where each ministry makes its own regulations, resulting in shackles for businesses, Swiss regulators discuss regulations with industries, as well as within the administration, to come up with regulations that are business-friendly. Thanks to flexible regulations and a business-friendly environment, Switzerland harbors many global businesses and start-ups, attracting talented people from around the world.



Businesses also find Switzerland attractive since it offers an international environment where one can find diverse languages and people who can connect with various cultures. Google in Zurich, for instance, has employees of 50 nationalities, with Swiss being less than 5 percent.



The canton of Zug, which is about 20 minutes by train from Zurich, shows how much administrators can do to set up a good environment for innovative firms. On top of harboring global companies at its ICT and healthcare clusters, it has recently been attracting the spotlight, thanks to crypto valley. While many countries including Korea chose to restrict virtual currencies, the canton chose to accept the innovation.



"The Canton of Zug is the first canton to accept crypto currencies in their administration. This started a whole new business for them because everyone was attracted to Zug," Wollkopf said.



Greater Zurich AreaThe number of people who lost their job in the first four months of this year rose 6.1 percent from a year earlier, data showed Sunday, a possible indication of a slowdown in Asia's fourth-largest economy, despite steady signs of growth.



The government data showed that 327,000 people left their jobs and reported to the government that they are no longer covered by South Korea's unemployment insurance program.



In another possible sign of economic slowdown, the number of new jobs stood at slightly above the 100,000 mark for the third straight month in April, the worst tally since the 2008 global financial crisis, according to government data.



In February, the number of new posts came to 104,000. The figures for March and April were 112,000 and 123,000, respectively. In comparison, the number of newly added jobs came to 334,000 in January.



In April, South Korea's exports retreated 1.5 percent from a year earlier, the first dip in 18 months, largely due to a base effect.



South Korea's exports rebounded to reach US$50.98 billion in May, however, up 13.5 percent from $44.92 billion a year ago.



Adding to the economic concerns, the country's leading composite indicator compiled by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development stood at 99.6 for March, hovering below 100 for the third straight month. A figure below the benchmark signals an economic slowdown.



The indicator is designed to provide an early sign of a turning point in the business cycle, indicating fluctuation of economic activity around its long-term potential level.



Joo Won, a director at Hyundai Research Institute, warned that the South Korean economy is in the process of entering a recession.



Meanwhile, others stressed it is much too early to say that South Korea has entered a real slowdown phase.



The country's gross domestic product reached 395.6 trillion won (US$370 billion) in the January-March period, up 1 percent from a quarter earlier, according to the Bank of Korea.



The reading marked a slight decrease from an earlier estimate of a 1.1 percent expansion released in April, but it suggests South Korea could be on track to meet its target of 3 percent growth this year.



"It is difficult to say that the current situation represents a clear cut economic recovery path, but there are variables such as an extra budget and investments over improved inter-Korean ties that could contribute to growth go forward," said Kim Jung-sik, a professor of economics at Yonsei University.



In May, the country's parliament approved a 3.83 trillion won (US$3.54 billion) extra budget bill to create jobs for young people and help industrial regions grappling with massive layoffs. (Yonhap)



National Pension Service Chairman and CEO Kim Sung-joo

By Jhoo Dong-chan



The National Pension Service (NPS) has decided not to increase its holdings of local stocks in 2019, news that could weigh on then minds of many equity investors.



The agency said Sunday it will adjust its investment portfolio, of which it invests only 18 percent of its assets in local stocks, down from the current 20.8 percent, by the end of next year.



During its recent committee meeting, the NPS decided to set the investment volume of domestic stocks at 131.7 trillion won in 2019, accounting for 18 percent of the agency's investment portfolio.



The NPS held 129.6 trillion won worth of domestic stocks as of February. If the value of the stocks owned by the NPS goes up a bit, it won't be able to invest new money in the nation's stock market.



While it reduces the domestic ratio to 18 percent by the end of 2019, it will raise the ratio of its foreign stocks to 20 percent from current 17.7 percent in the period.



It will be the first time for the NPS to invest more in foreign stocks than in domestic stocks, and the Ministry of Health and Welfare added it will further lower the domestic ratio to 15 percent by the end of 2023.



"The NPS has been the backbone of the domestic stock market. The decision will negatively influence investor sentiment," said a Nomura Securities official.



"It will also throw cold water on the government's plan to buoy the nation's Kosdaq market. The decision is likely to lead to the outflow of private investors."



The NPS accounts for about 7 percent of the domestic stock market capitalization.



An industry observer, who declined to be named, said an increasing number of people find it difficult to trust the NPS' policy following a series of its controversial investment decisions, including the merger between Samsung C&T and Cheil Industries.



"It will definitely sour the domestic stock market. Its role to prevent domestic stock market fluctuations caused by foreign investors will be reduced."



The decision is attributed to the belief that the NPS has invested a higher portion of its assets in domestic stocks than other foreign pension funds do, which has led to a decline in profitability and an increase in volatility.



Korea Times graphic by Cho Sang-won



Policymakers urged to provide sustainable, field-based employment assistance



By Jung Da-min



Young jobseekers here are largely cynical about a wide range of policies the government says will help them find decent jobs.



They say various state agencies should work harder to learn what young people really need when searching for jobs, and provide sustainable, field-based employment assistance accordingly.



Various assistance programs including youth allowances, support for direct and indirect expenses related to searching for jobs, and job consulting programs have already been introduced, but few provide substantive help, according to jobseekers.



A library assistant at a local college said before she found a part-time job, it had been difficult for her to get a subsidy from the Ministry of Employment and Labor.



For instance, the ministry's "Tomorrow Learning Card," designed to help jobseekers and self-employed people by paying for some vocational training programs, has been useless.



"The procedures of getting the card were more difficult when I was searching for a job," she said.



But once she had the part-time job, she found it easy to get a card. However, she said she now found it difficult to use the card, with few classes available for the skills she wanted to learn.



Ongoing help for jobseekers is as important as the subsidy program, she pointed out.



"If the government has created a policy, it is not the end but it has to continuously look at and fix it," she said.



Another jobseeker, who is seeking a position at a public-owned company, pointed out the government's lack of understanding in establishing job policies.



"As a jobseeker living in a province far from Seoul, I wish the government would give more support for transport and lodging because most of the written tests take place in Seoul," she said. "There was a transport support policy by the Youth Hope Foundation but this year's applications already expired after January."



She also said the government should provide job training programs before, rather than after, people graduate from college.



"I wish there were more government-provided practical education programs such as financing and accounting, or management and administration," she said. "For me as a humanities major, I feel I wasted four years in college."



With many companies' written tests requiring knowledge of management, administration and law, people who majored in the humanities have to pay more to learn new skills once they graduate.



Many young jobseekers lack confidence in applying for jobs and go to job consultants, but the government's services lack quality and staff, jobseekers say.



"The government's youth employment package includes a one-on-one counseling service, but my friends who have tried the service said the quality was not good," said a jobseeker who majored in Arabic and is looking for a job where she can use her language skills.



"Many of them went for a paid counseling service at a private job portal site and I decided not to get any counseling at all."



A former jobseeker, now a contract worker at a volunteer organization, also said he wishes the government would expand career centers and employ more job consultants.



"Our organization also has a government-run career center, but there are only two consultants managing thousands of workers here," he said. "We cannot access the service for a long enough time."



The youth unemployment rate was 10.7 percent in April, down 0.9 percentage points from the previous month. Last year, the rate was 9.8 percent.

South Korea's National Defense Minister Song Young-moo listens to the first plenary session led by U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis during the 17th IISS Shangri-la Dialogue, an annual defense and security forum in Asia, in Singapore, Saturday. / Yonhap



The defense chiefs of South Korea and the United States agreed Saturday to maintain their robust alliance in the face of North Korea's recent peace offensive.

In talks held on the margins of the Shangri-La Dialogue, an annual security forum, in Singapore, Defense Minister Song Young-moo and Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis shared the view that the summit between the North and the U.S. later this month will serve as a "historic chance" for the denuclearization of the peninsula and establishment of permanent peace, according to Seoul's defense ministry.

They agreed to bolster "communication and coordination" to provide "military-level" support for the creation of positive conditions for the success of the summit scheduled to take place in Singapore on June 12, the ministry added.

Regardless of the security conditions in Korea, Mattis said, Washington's "ironclad" security commitment for South Korea will remain unchanged.

When it comes to U.S. Forces Korea, which has around 28,500 service members, he was quoted as telling Song that the Pentagon will maintain the current level of "combat power."

Song said South Korea will cooperate closely with the U.S. in pushing for measures to ease inter-Korean military tensions and build mutual confidence.

He assured the secretary that all related procedures will be based on the robust alliance.

The two sides also agreed to work together for the speedy transition of wartime operational control of South Korean troops from Washington to Seoul.

Emerging from the meeting with the Pentagon chief, which lasted about 45 minutes, Song told reporters that they discussed ways for the allies to closely cooperate "at a crucial time."

An aide to the minister said the issue of declaring a formal end to the 1950-53 Korean War was not discussed.

Adm. Philip S. Davidson, who took the command of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command earlier this week, joined the meeting. (Yonhap)

By Kim Bo-eun



Likelihood is growing that President Moon Jae-in will join the leaders of North Korea and the United States following their June 12 summit in Singapore to discuss declaring an end to the 1950-53 Korean War, after U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned the possibility.



After his meeting with top North Korean official Kim Yong-chol in Washington, D.C., on Friday (local time), Trump said they "talked about ending the war," and referred to it as "something that could come out of the meeting" with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.



Kim Yong-chol visited the U.S. for talks with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and to deliver a letter from the North Korean leader to Trump.



Regarding guaranteeing the security of the North Korean regime, Trump said "We're going to make sure it's secure" and that North Korea has "potential to be a great country."



It was the first time the U.S. president mentioned the possibility of declaring an end to the war, although it has been mentioned as a way to guarantee the security of the North Korean regime in exchange for Pyongyang abandoning its nuclear weapons. Hostilities ended in 1953 with an armistice, not a peace treaty.



Diplomatic relations with the U.S. should precede any possible guarantee of North Korea's regime security. But as this is a process that takes time, the U.S. could first seek to end the Korean War.





Korean War veteran Ji Chang-ho shows his train ticket for Pyongyang (misspelled as Pyeongyang) at Seoul Station on June 3. He is one of 650 who booked the one-day ticket online. / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk



By Ko Dong-hwan



A train ticket from Seoul Station to Pyongyang may sound absurd on the Korean Peninsula, which has been split since the Korean War truce in 1953. But the trip almost came true on Sunday when the first "Seoul-to-Pyongyang" train departed as part of a government event in support of unification.



The one day-only "Peace Rail" train, sponsored by national operator Korail and several pro-unification political circles, did not actually head to the North Korean capital but to Dorasan Station on the Gyeongui Line in Paju, close to the inter-Korean border. The Gyeongui Line service north of Dorasan was decommissioned during the Korean War in 1951. Pyongyang is about 200 kilometers north of the station.





A woman and boy behind a mock-up replica of the Peace Rail train  including a drawing of South Korean President Moon Jae-in  at Seoul Station, June 3. / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk



About 650 tickets were sold online in advance and were issued at the station on Sunday. Those who booked the roundtrip asked for tickets to Pyongyang at a specially designed booth on the third floor right above the main ticketing zone.



The train left at 1 p.m. and travelers visited Dorasan Peace Park near Dorasan Station where a concert was held to celebrate the first issuance of such tickets since the peninsula was divided. The chartered train of 11 carriages departed for Seoul Station after five hours.





Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon, second from left, and Gyeonggi Province Governor candidate for the June 13 local elections Lee Jae-myung show their tickets to Pyongyang at Seoul Station on June 3. / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk



Ji Chang-ho, 86, a Korean War veteran, came from Inje, Gangwon Province, to make the trip, proudly showing his 27,000 won ($25) ticket with no designated seat. The upper edge of the ticket says "Trans-Eurasia Railroad Ticket," symbolizing a ticket that could connect Seoul through Eurasia to Berlin.



The event marked the 100th anniversary of the birth of Pastor Moon Ik-hwan, who pioneered democracy and the unification movement in South Korea from 1970s until his death in 1994. Living through the Japanese Occupation Period (1910-1945), the divination scholar who translated the Old Testament of the Bible visited Pyongyang in 1989 to meet North Korean founder Kim Il-sung in a bid to ease tension between the Koreas.





Actor Moon Sung-keun greets Seoul-to-Pyongyang travelers in a special booth on the third floor of Seoul Station on June 3. / Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk



The Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management wins the 2018 United Arab Emirates Health Foundation Prize for outstanding contributions to drug safety and health development at the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. Courtesy of Ministry of Food and Drug Safety



By Kim Rahn







Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte arrived in Seoul, Sunday, for his three-day official visit here.







Duterte is the first head of an ASEAN member nation to visit South Korea since President Moon Jae-in took office in May last year.







Moon and Duterte will have a summit and a dinner on Monday. It will be their second bilateral talk following the previous talk that took place in November when Moon visited the Philippines for the ASEAN Plus Three summit.







The two leaders will discuss comprehensive ways to strengthen bilateral relations and intensify practical cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, infrastructure construction, the defense industry and cultural and human exchanges, according to Cheong Wa Dae.







The Philippines is one of the major partners in Moon's New Southern Policy, which seeks economic cooperation and more exchanges among South Korea, Southeast Asian nations and India.







"We are expanding cooperation with ASEAN members, and with Moon's earlier visit to Vietnam and Duterte's visit here, the New Southern Policy will likely begin to make full progress," presidential spokesman Kim Eui-kyeom said.







Moon will also seek Duterte's support in the ongoing negotiations over North Korea's denuclearization, with the Washington-Pyongyang summit to be held about a week later.







The Philippines is the first ASEAN country with which South Korea formed diplomatic ties  in March 1949, only months after the South established its government in August 1948. The country also fought for South Korea during the 1950-53 Korean War.





Azerbaijani Ambassador to Korea Ramzi Teymurov delivers a speech during a reception to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Azerbaijan's first democratic republic at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, May 21. / Embassy of Azerbaijan





Azerbaijani Ambassador to Korea Ramzi Teymurov, front row ninth from left, poses with dignitaries including foreign envoys here during a reception to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, May 21. / Embassy of Azerbaijan



By Yi Whan-woo



Azerbaijan's first democratic republic, despite its short-lived existence, shared European democratic values and the rich cultural heritage of the East that have lasted through to today, according to Azerbaijani Ambassador to Korea Ramzi Teymurov.



The envoy said this makes the 100th anniversary of Azerbaijan Democratic Republic more special, and that the country is trying to capitalize on its pioneering history for sustainable development.



Founded on May 28, 1918, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) lasted for 23 months until the Red Army's invasion in 1920.



The country became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991 and established diplomatic relations with Korea in 1992.



"ADR became clear evidence that even the most atrocious and oppressive colonial regimes were unable to eradicate the ideas of liberty and independent statehood traditions of the Azerbaijani nation," Teymurov said during a recent centenary anniversary in Seoul.



"The ADR was a pioneer that combined both European democratic values and the abundant cultural heritage of the East in one entity."



He stressed that the republic was the first parliamentary democracy with a republican form of governance and also the first model of a democratic secular state among non-Western countries, including Turko-Muslim states.



He highlighted that the republic granted voting rights to women and regardless of ethnic and religious affiliation.



"It happened the first time in the Islamic world and even before some Western democracies," he said, adding that the republic "will always stay in the memory of future generations as one of the brightest pages of our history."





Azerbaijani Ambassador to Korea Ramzi Teymurov, third from left, joins a cake-cutting ceremony with World Taekwondo President Choue Chung-won, left, Ambassador for International Security Affairs Moon Duk-ho of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, second from left, and Liberty Korea Party lawmaker Lee Myoung-su who serves as the chairman of the Korea-Azerbaijan Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group, during a reception to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, May 21. / Embassy of AzerbaijanFisherman in Tegal, Indonesia in February 2016. Fishery workers from Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, come to South Korea for better pay but some suffer labor abuse and human rights violation. / Courtesy of Advocates for Public Interest Law



By Ko Dong-hwan



A migrant workers' rights activist has lambasted the South Korean government for ignoring migrant seafarers' working environment, fraught with abuse, revealing part of a poem shared by the Vietnamese sailors who refer to themselves as "dogs and cows."



Kim Jong-chul, a lawyer from Seoul-based Advocates for Public Interest Law (APIL), spoke out for the victims in front of Cheong Wa Dae, the presidential office in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on May 29. Joined by members from Korean Confederation of Trade Unions and activist groups like Migrants Act, Joint Committee with Migrants in Korea and Green Party Korea, the press conference berated the Ministry of Justice's lax labor laws that have left migrant seafarers open to verbal abuse and physical and sexual harassment.



Kim cited a poem verbally spread among Vietnamese seafarers in Korea that reflects their psychological distress under harsh working environments. He said he heard it from Vietnamese sailors two years ago. Here is a word-to-word translation of the lyrics that all Vietnamese fishermen know, whatever vessel they are working on:



Neon signs are my sunlight and waves my friends / Once the work starts, we work 18 hours nonstop / Now, I understand Korea / They like those with sleight of hands, who can work fast / Slow hands are called "ssiballom" (explicit Korean slang referring to those who would deny their ancestors) / They order even when we eat / Don't eat but swallow / No matter how fast we eat / We cannot satisfy the speed they want / Korea, I will never dream of coming here again / Although I may make a thousand golds / Because you will be a widow and your children bastards / They don't give us a bonus / Just a little something for living like a cow and dog tomorrow





Activists gathered in front of South Korean presidential office Cheong Wa Dae in Jongno-gu, Seoul, May 29, demanding the government prosecute the captain and family members for abusing two Vietnamese seafarers for months. Advocates for Public Interest Law lawyer Kim Jong-chul is fifth from left. / Yonhap



"I thought about what the Vietnamese seafarers had possibly expected about working in Korea," Kim said during the conference, referring to two migrants who suffered abuse from a captain and his family members on ships based in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, for more than six months in 2017-18.





South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo, left, shakes hands with U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis ahead of their meeting on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Saturday. / Yonhap



By Choi Ha-young



South Korea and the United States' regular joint military exercises are likely to be scaled down, following Saturday's agreement between defense ministers of the two countries to create "positive conditions" for the upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.



The downscaling is expected to include the reduction of deployment of U.S. nuclear submarines and strategic bombers around the Korean Peninsula along with the joint exercises.



South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo and his American counterpart James Mattis agreed to support the diplomatic measures toward denuclearization of North Korea in a joint press statement released after the bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 17th Asia Security Summit held in Singapore  known as the Shangri-La Dialogue.



"Both ministers shared the stance that the Washington-Pyongyang summit will provide a historic opportunity in denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula and establishing permanent peace," the joint statement reads.



"For this, they promised to help create conditions favorable for the summit and tighten bilateral communication and mutual assistance."



North Korea has reacted sensitively toward the allies' joint military drills, which it calls a "rehearsal of war." Scaling down the exercises has been discussed as one option of guaranteeing the North's regime security and removing military threats to the country in denuclearization negotiations.



A South Korean ministry official added Sunday that both ministers agreed to carry out the combined exercises in a "low key." The official implied that advanced American weapons could be deployed for the drills, but there would be little or no media coverage allowed.



"The allies will carry out the military drills as scheduled. But we will not actively make them public," the official said. "We may not announce the deployments of the strategic assets, even though they are deployed according to our annual plan. This means we will refrain from excessive promotions, rather than cancelling the combined drills."



The allies, however, ruled out the possibility of withdrawing or reducing U.S. forces in South Korea.



The combined military exercises have irritated North Korea, as seen in the North's protests last month against the Max Thunder joint air force exercise. The protests, coupled with offensive remarks about Kim by former North Korean diplomat Thae Yong-ho who defected to the South, led to Pyongyang's abrupt cancellation of inter-Korean talks.



In a related move, the North blasted the South's participation in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), as well as the annual Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG), which is scheduled to take place in August. RIMPAC, the U.S.-led biennial drill, is underway from May 30, joined by 26 countries.



"The relaxation of military tension around the peninsula is a critical issue in deciding the fate of Koreans," Pyongyang's state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun reported, Sunday. "The South Korean military's moves are clearly against the Panmunjeom Declaration."



The deployment of U.S. strategic bombers has put strains on the North Korean regime. Last September, when military tension peaked around the peninsula, two U.S. B-1B supersonic bombers and F-15C aircraft flew through international airspace over waters east of North Korea, for the first time since the armistice was signed in 1953.

By Kim Jae-heun







The United Nation's Special Rapporteur Leilani Farha has expressed concerns over rising housing inequality in Korea.





Farha visited Seoul last Monday at the invitation of the government to conduct a 10-day investigation.





The special rapporteur met with officials from government agencies including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport and the Ministry of Justice.





"Korea should change its recognition on housing not as an asset or commodity. Residential rights should be recognized equally with human rights," said Farha during a discussion held at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul.





"The Korean government is making various efforts to carry out its initiative on the rights to housing. But I felt that there needs momentum to truly observe the human rights here."





Farha expressed her concerns over unceasing large-scale reconstruction here that is driving out the locals and destroying the community.





She argued compulsory eviction, permitted by the courts, is a violation of the international human rights law.



The special rapporteur also pointed out that the government should provide accommodation and the minimum cost of living to homeless people by 2030.





"The government should furthermore take the lead in protecting minorities in the country such as disabled people, immigrant workers and homosexuals," Farha said.





She also argued the Korean government should implement rental regulations to guarantee stability for residents.



"Efforts are need to improve the residential environment in towns with compact rooms too. Also, raising wages for households should be reviewed, considering the rising living costs," Farha said.





Her investigation report will be submitted to the United Nations.





By Kim Jae-heun







Hong Kong Disneyland Resort has opened a Korea-language website to further attract Korean tourists.



"The number of Koreans visiting Hong Kong Disneyland has doubled every year since 2014. Korea has become the fourth largest market in the world for us," said Lunda Choy, vice president of the park's communications and public affairs during a press conference at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul.



"The figure has increased over 50 percent in just one year. Looking at the number of Korean visitors in the first quarter this year, the figure has already reached 50 percent of all the visitors from Korea to our theme park in 2017."



Choy added this growth over the last five years was in part attributable to the increasing interest of Korean tourists in Hong Kong.





She said Disney hopes this will continue.





"We are expecting this growth to continue as we introduce new attractions through 2023 as part of our expansion," Choy said.



The Korean website will provide online information from the latest seasonal programs to hotel booking and customized tour packages.



Hong Kong Disneyland is presenting various festivals and shows this summer including "Carnivale of Stars," "Moana: Homecoming Celebration" and the projection show "We Love Mickey!"

"This year marks the 90th birthday for Mickey. We have prepared various programs to meet and please guests worldwide including Koreans," Choy said.





About 1.48 million people visited Hong Kong last year, which is a 6.8 percent increase compared to that of previous year.





Tourist visiting Hong Kong for the first time comprised 64 percent of the total.





People who visited Hong Kong for the second time or more accounted for 36 percent.





Tourists who came with their families were 14 percent of all tourists.





Moon Jae-in passes bricks during his June 2016 trip to Nepal, to build a temporary building for students of Arukharka Secondary School, which was destroyed in an earthquake in 2015. Yonhap



By Lee Suh-yoon



President Moon Jae-in recently donated his own money to a secondary school in Nepal he visited two years ago as part of an earthquake relief effort.



Moon and his aides who accompanied him on the June 2016 trek to the region recently donated 13.5 million won ($12,600) to Arukharka Secondary School in Nuwakot, one of the districts that was hardest-hit by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake in April 2015. Of the money raised for the project, the President contributed 5 million won out of his own pocket.



"Moon donated the money to keep his promise to the local children he met while on his trek in Nepal. The friendship between South Korea and Nepal continues to this day," a Cheong Wa Dae official said, Sunday.



During the trip, Moon himself joined in relief work by participating in building a temporary structure for the children of the school that was totally destroyed by the earthquake. It was several months before the massive corruption scandal involving former President Park Geun-hye and her longtime confidant Choi Soon-sil surfaced.



Moon was not holding any major office at the time after quitting the then-opposition Democratic Party of Korea chief position five months earlier.



Before returning to Korea after the 15-day trip, Moon promised to continue supporting the reconstruction efforts of the school, according to Nepalese local media.



Earlier this year Moon checked how the reconstruction work was going, and found it was not progressing much due to budget limitations. He then decided to donate money. He and his aides collected 15 million won, and 13.5 million won was offered to the school and 1.5 million won to a Nepalese worker here who was suffering from heart disease.



"I was moved by Moon's warm and humble image," Bhakta Ram Lamichhane, a local guide who accompanied Moon during the trip, said on Facebook. "He himself washed his own clothes every day, ate with the Nepalese porters and guides, and deeply grieved at the earthquake-ravaged sites."



The donation, made two months ago, was not made public until several members of the Nepalese local media reported it last Wednesday. The school plans to use the money for building retaining walls on slopes, fences and a drinking fountain, according to media.







Election campaigning vehicles carrying loudspeakers line up in the street ahead of the June 13 local elections in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, Saturday. Yonhap



Talks between the United States and North Korea ended with a handshake Friday (June 1) after a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and Kim Yong Chol, a close aide of Kim Jong Un.

A letter from of Kim Jong Un was delivered to Trump at the meeting.

After trading threats of war last year, the two men agreed to meet for an historic summit on June 12. But Trump canceled the meeting, citing Kim's "tremendous anger and open hostility" in a string of public statements.By Andrew Hammond





Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov continued an intensive period of Russian diplomacy Thursday with a visit to North Korea.



Last month, he and Russian President Vladimir Putin met with a wide range of foreign leaders, including Japanese Premier Shinzo Abe, underlining that a key goal of the newly re-elected Putin is re-energizing relationships across the globe.



Some two decades after first assuming power, Putin has restored Russia's geopolitical prominence, including through gambits such as the annexation of Crimea and the Syria intervention. And this has  so far  played well domestically for him, helping him win a new six-year term of office.



Extraordinarily, by the mid-2020s he will have been in office for a longer period at the top than all the Soviet Union's supreme leaders, except Joseph Stalin. This underlines the breadth of his popularity, currently, in much of Russia despite the significant criticism he gets abroad.



Yet, domestic popularity has been mirrored by frostier ties with leaders in multiple key countries, especially in the West. And a key question  now that Putin has won power till at least 2024  is how much weight in coming years he wants to put on rebuilding these relationships.



Early signs are that he recognizes the need to double down on diplomacy, and in the last 10 days he has met not just with Abe, but also French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi. And there are signs of renewed foreign interest in Russia too.



Take the example of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in late May which enjoyed the biggest international lineup since before 2014  when Russia was hit with sanctions over Crimea and Ukraine  with keynote speakers including not just Macron and Abe, but also Chinese Vice President Qishan Wang, and Managing Director and Chairwoman of the IMF Christine Lagarde. According to Russian authorities, some 500 new business agreements worth around $38 billion were signed at the event.



The question of rebuilding Russian's foreign relations is especially pressing with Europe after years of sanctions over Ukraine and Crimea; concerns over Moscow's alleged extensive meddling in a suite of Western elections; plus the recent attempted murder in England of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter which has been widely blamed, internationally, on Moscow.



To this end, Putin met not just with Macron on May 25, but also Merkel last week before, to try in the French president's words, to work "hand-in-hand [to end] one of the most difficult periods of our history".



While the mood music between Russia and Europe is still tense, there are some signs that there may be a political window of opportunity to partially rebuild relations. In part, this comes in the context of U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, which is opposed by Putin, Macron, Merkel and other European leaders; and this issue therefore provides a new platform for constructive engagement between them.



Outside of Europe, Putin is also cultivating enhanced ties with key Asia-Pacific countries from China to India and Japan. In his meetings with Abe, Putin agreed to foster joint economic activities in the disputed islands off Japan's northernmost main island of Hokkaido which were seized by the former Soviet Union at the end of World War II. These islands are now controlled by Moscow, but claimed by Tokyo, and both appear to want to see progress toward a peace treaty settlement on this issue.



In the coming years, perhaps the biggest area of continuing Russian foreign policy uncertainty is over U.S. relations. Putin and Trump had hoped for a rapprochement, yet developments in 2017 and 2018, including the pressure the White House is under over the congressional and FBI investigations into alleged collusion with Moscow during the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign, may have destroyed the potential window of opportunity for this to happen.



Putin said that he has had little contact with Trump and that "we are hostages to internal strife in the United States. I hope that it will end some day and the objective need for the development of Russian-American relationships will prevail."



However, it is not only domestic U.S. pressures Putin referred to that are complicating ties. There have also been tensions between Moscow and Washington over the Middle East, including after U.S. missile strikes targeted at Syria this year and last year following alleged poison gas attacks committed by the Damascus regime which is propped up by Putin.



Last year, U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis and then-Secretary of State Rex Tillerson were especially forceful in their criticism of Moscow with the latter saying that "either Russia has been complicit or simply incompetent" in Syria. And the spike in Washington-Moscow tensions then even saw Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev saying the two countries were "one step away from war" and had "totally ruined" relations.



Taken overall, Putin's re-election has seen Moscow doubling down on diplomacy to try to rebuild relationships, especially with Europe. With the proposed U.S.-Russia rapprochement looking increasing uncertain, Putin may now place greater emphasis on Asia too, including Japan, China and India.



Andrew Hammond (andrewkorea@outlook.com) is an Associate at LSE IDEAS at the London School of Economics.

By Doug Bandow





President Donald Trump's bromance with Chinese President Xi Jinping has yielded few practical results. To the contrary, U.S.-Chinese relations increasingly seem headed for rough waters.



Top of the list is North Korea. After the North's recent angry eruption, or "different attitude," as President Trump put it, he blamed China: "I think I understand why that happened," but "I can't say that I'm happy about it."



Apparently the president believed that Kim was ready to toss away his nuclear weapons, and who knows what else, until President Xi summoned Kim to Beijing and issued contrary instructions. (The administration's multiple threats of military action are far more likely culprits for Pyongyang's shift.)



President Trump is not the only one to assume that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea was China's puppet. Joseph Bosco, who served in the Bush Defense Department, charged China with "blatant sabotaging of the promising dialogue" between the U.S. and North Korea.



In fact, Pyongyang is resisting administration demands because Kim believes they are not in his nation's, or at least his regime's, interest. From its founding the DPRK has resolutely resisted foreign pressure. Long ago even the PRC discovered the limits of its influence in the North.



Beijing wants a stable, docile, non-nuclear Korean buffer state. That would enhance China's regional influence, prevent the peninsula from being used as a tool of containment, spark allied requests for Chinese help to "manage" the North, and preserve a relationship with both historical and ideological significance.



In contrast, a nuclear DPRK ensures Pyongyang's independence, including from the PRC, and generates American complications.



Unfortunately for Beijing, its buffer state was always unruly and recently went nuclear. For years the Chinese leadership decided that buffer took precedence over nuclear.



Especially since the PRC's influence in the North was substantially more limited some observers assumed. The Beijing-Pyongyang relationship was not unlike America's support for brutally repressive regimes  think Egypt or Saudi Arabia today  which nevertheless were believed to advance other U.S. interests.



Chinese intervention in the Korean War preserved founder Kim Il-sung's rule, for which it received few thanks. For years he played Moscow against Beijing.



The relationship between the two supposed allies has oscillated, but generally grown increasingly strained. Kim Jong-un accelerated nuclear and missile testing. Moreover, five years ago he executed his uncle, Jang Song-thaek, who was his nation's principle interlocutor with Beijing.



Nevertheless, complained Bosco, the PRC enabled the North's ambitions "by protecting successive Kim regimes from United Nations-imposed and other economic sanctions." True, because China fears instability and collapse rather like Washington would view a possible Mexican implosion.



In control of the entire peninsula, the ROK also would become a more significant international actor, potentially part of a U.S-orchestrated containment system. In fact, in 1950 Beijing went to war to prevent a united Korea allied with America and hosting U.S. troops on its border. One can imagine Washington's reaction to Canada joining the Warsaw Pact.



Thus, preserving the Kim dynasty made sense for the PRC. However, in recent years Chinese attitudes have hardened. After every North Korean test Beijing agreed to tighter restrictions and increasingly enforced them.



Six years after Kim ascended to the North Korean throne he had yet to receive an invitation to the PRC. The DPRK was in the equivalent of Xi's doghouse.



The Chinese deep freeze probably encouraged Pyongyang to play the America card. Xi watched as Kim met with South Korea's President Moon Jae-in and planned a summit with President Trump. This created a fearsome prospect for Beijing: an autonomous DPRK friendly to America.



That possibility likely motivated the two Xi-Kim summits between March and May. It was imperative for Beijing to cater to Kim.



China almost certainly was the supplicant, offering the DPRK what the latter long desired. Beijing still wanted North Korea to negotiate, but not from a position of weakness ready to toss the PRC under the proverbial bus.



Instead of fulminating about Sino perfidy, Washington should engage the PRC over its perceived interests. For instance, a U.S. promise to withdraw troops and a South Korean pledge of military neutrality could moderate Chinese concerns over a westward North Korean move and even South Korea-dominated reunification.



Washington should keep its eye on the prize at the upcoming summit: eliminating North Korean nuclear weapons. Doing so is still a long-shot. But President Trump should be prepared to pay the necessary price for the PRC's aid.



Doug Bandow (chessset@aol.com) is a senior fellow at the Cato Institute and a former special assistant to President Ronald Reagan. He is author of "Tripwire: Korea and U.S. Foreign Policy in a Changed World" and co-author of "The Korean Conundrum: America's Troubled Relations with North and South Korea."

Trump-Kim summit should start peace process



U.S. President Donald Trump's meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's special envoy Friday has raised the possibility of formally ending the Korean War. It was first time Trump has mentioned such a possibility.



"We talked about ending the war," he said, after meeting with the North Korean envoy. "Historically it's very important but we'll see."



Terminating the war will have a symbolic meaning as the two Koreas are still technically at war because the war was concluded with a truce, not a peace treaty. Doing so will be a first step toward providing security assurances for the Kim regime in return for giving up its nuclear program.



The envoy, Kim Yong-chol, vice chairman of the Central Committee of the North's ruling Workers' Party, became the first Pyongyang official to visit the White House in 18 years. He hand-delivered a personal letter from Kim Jong-un to Trump. The content of the letter has yet to be disclosed, but Trump described it as "very nice."



The North is strongly pushing for an end to the war which could pave the way for a peace treaty not only with the South but also the U.S. And then the peace treaty might hopefully speed up diplomatic normalization between the two sides. After his second meeting with Kim Jong-un on May 26, President Moon Jae-in also expressed his hope the two Koreas and the U.S. will declare a formal end to the Korean War if the Trump-Kim talks produce successful results.



Moon is now preparing to join Trump and Kim in Singapore if the planned June 12 summit extends to one more day and they agree to declare the end of the war. Moon and Kim already agreed to do so during their April 27 summit at the truce village of Panmunjeom. Moon also reportedly proposed the idea to Trump when they met on May 22 in Washington, D.C.



President Trump might accept the idea to make the summit with Kim more dramatic. What's encouraging is that Trump gave the impression that he has _ to a certain degree _ eased his firm position on the complete and rapid denuclearization of the North. This change of his tone came after abruptly deciding to cancel the summit citing the North's bellicose rhetoric last week.



Trump appeared somewhat upbeat about the prospects of the unprecedented summit. The U.S. president also said, "Now we're going to deal and we're going to really start a process." His remarks indicate Washington and Pyongyang have managed to narrow their differences and agreed to achieve the North's denuclearization in return for security guarantees for the Kim regime and economic benefits.



However, we should not be too optimistic. This cautious approach was reflected in Trump's remarks that more than a single meeting would be necessary for the North to abandon its nuclear arsenal. It seems Trump has come to take a more realistic approach to denuclearization which must be a long and difficult process. With only nine days until the summit, it remains to be seen if Trump and Kim can start the long-overdue peace process.



By Kim Ji-myung





The on-again off-again June 12 talks between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and U.S. President Donald Trump are just nine days away. The venue is chosen and the main agenda is under discussion.



However, we know that anything can happen before the meeting actually takes place in Singapore as planned.



In my Feb. 10 column, "Post-crisis prophecy of unification," I introduced forecasts on national unification made by famed figures. A famous 1975 prophecy of a Buddhist master-monk was that Korea would have a lady president; and then near the end of her presidency, unification would come. Recently another renowned fortuneteller predicted that unification is just around the corner.



Looking back, numerous international symposia were held to learn lessons from the German experience and to prepare Korea for unification since the fall of the Berlin Wall in October 1990.



Are we ready to face the reality of a unified Korea?



As of now, even if unification is realized, not many Koreans would portray a country where people from the North Korea and South Korea will move immediately to the other side of the peninsula to form a mixed community. Some argue that maybe South Korea and China will need to reinforce the borders to prevent the movement of people.



As the German case shows, integrating long-separated people into one country, physically and mentally, will take more than a few decades.



An Australian scholar came up with a calculation that the historical unification alone would have a cost of around $3 trillion.



A survey by the Asan Institute made in 2014 showed that less than 35 percent of Koreans in their 20s were willing to pay additional taxes to fund the enormous projected cost, although more than 70 percent of them expressed interest in unification.



Previous governments tried but failed to introduce a unification tax to prepare for the $3 trillion cost, which equals almost all of South Korea's annual national income.



Newspaper companies began their own projects in preparation for national unification.



One of the leading conservative dailies in South Korea, the Chosun Ilbo, launched a massive "unification is the future" campaign in 2014. The "Unification and Sharing Foundation" was created in 2015. Some 1.7 million people donated, raising 313.7 billion won. The foundation has supported unification-related activities by individuals and organizations.



On the other hand, the Joong-ang Ilbo's approach is non-financial but very creative. The 1090 Peace and Unification Campaign was launched in March 2013. The core of the campaign comprise volunteers who are ready to donate their expertise and talent to the North Korean people when possible.



The name "1090" refers to "all people" from their 10s to their 90s. Their catch phrase is "North Korea in my daily life, exchanges and unity in my life."



A campaign leader explained the basic concept. "We will begin by asking what we can do if we are able to communicate with North Korea once it becomes unified," he said.



"The 1090 movement will become a grassroots unification movement that will resolve the conflicts between South and North Korea through resolution of inter-Korean conflicts through the revitalization of youth unification education," said Hong Seok-hyun, a 1090 advisor.



The members prepare themselves with practical knowledge about the North Korean people  what they need in everyday life such as items and services for their healthcare, work such as farming, husbandry, forestation, useful learning of foreign languages including English.



The lecture series "Knowing North Korea in Life" is supported by the 1090 Movement, Sookmyung Women's University and Duksung Women's University. The lectures cover diverse topics about life in North Korean. They are offered on an Open Course Ware online.



College students formed a North Korea study society to gain deeper understanding of the daily lives of people who live in the northern part of the peninsula, which is different from students' ideology study in the 1980s.



Although critical issues such as human rights, the risks and pains of those North Korean refugees and South Koreans still held in the North have remained un-tabled in inter-Korean talks, each of us needs to be prepared for the time of unification.



The writer (Heritagekorea21@gmail.com) is the chairwoman of the Korea Heritage Education Institute (K*Heritage).

/ Reuters



Coffee in Korea



By Jacco Zwetsloot



Casey Lartigue Jr., co-founder of the Teach North Korean Refugees Global Education Center, compiled these statements from interviews with refugees studying in TNKR.



Eun-bin, female, escaped to South Korea in 2012



There have already been so many changes when it comes to the summit, so I will just wait and see what will happen. I haven't really thought about being scared, but now that you are asking, I suppose I should be concerned about the way things could turn out.



If there is change in North Korea, then I think the architecture and real estate businesses will be hot. There is a lot of land that is not being used, so people involved in designing and building museums, office buildings and homes will be needed.



Shin-hye, female, escaped to South Korea in 2011



I do believe Trump's negotiation style will force North Korea to change, and I'm hopeful. I have lost my trust in the South Korean government, I moved here and have felt safe, but the South Korean government is so determined to appease North Korea that I don't know what would have happened if not for Trump.



If North Korea opens its economy, then the online market will take off. Real estate will also be big in North Korea, it is now a disaster, a combination of government control from the past and now anything goes culture. North Koreans are so used to evading the government to support themselves that they don't respect the law and regulations.



Kyung-hee, female, escaped to Japan in 2008



I have higher expectations because of Trump, I did not expect anything from Bush or Obama because they were typical politicians. Trump is a real businessman, if he doesn't see a good deal then he won't move. I'm not concerned because I have not identified myself publicly as being from North Korea.



But one of my colleagues has been threatened by a North Korean communist organization in Japan that has become more active lately. They have threatened her through phone calls warning her to halt her activities against North Korea and even threatened a TV station that had been planning a documentary about her.



I'm not optimistic, but if there is change in North Korea, then tourism will be big. My family was wealthy when I was in North Korea because we got into the market early. I got to see a lot of the country when we were traveling around doing business. Many areas of North Korea are preserved, I hope it won't develop so quickly like Korea or Japan have.









Police approach a group of topless women to cover them with blankets at a rally near Facebook headquarters in Seoul on Saturday. Yonhap





/ Yonhap



Seen above is Esfahan Oil Refining Company facilities in Esfahan, Iran. Daelim Industries has canceled a $2.08 billion deal to build additional refinery facilities in Esfahan. / Courtesy of Esfahan Oil Refining Company



By Park Jae-hyuk







Hyosung Group said Sunday it has officially established a holding company, Hyosung Corp., and spun off the group into the holding firm with four affiliates  Hyosung TNC, Hyosung Advanced Materials, Hyosung Heavy Industries and Hyosung Chemical.







Serving as a control tower of the group under the holding company structure, Hyosung Corp. is expected to focus on fostering high-profit business portfolios and enhance brand value, the conglomerate said.







According to Hyosung, the holding firm will also advance corporate governance and achieve transparent management, by managing the performance of the affiliates and having their operations focused on their respective boards and professional executives.







"Hyosung will leverage the expertise possessed by the holding company, Hyosung Corp., and the four new operating affiliates to maintain and advance transparent management and raise our competitiveness to become a perennial global leader, thus enhancing our corporate and customer value," Hyosung Group Chairman Cho Hyun-joon said.







Since his appointment last year, the chairman has stressed the importance of transparent management.







In July last year, he formed the transparent management committee under the company's board of directors.







He also resigned as the chairman of Hyosung's board of directors last February to break from the company's tradition of having the representative director lead the board.







Hyosung said it will reinforce the global competitiveness of the four affiliates by making them independent entities under the supervision of professional executives.







The conglomerate appointed 11 internal directors and 20 nonexecutive directors, during a meeting among the boards of directors of the five companies, Friday.







The newly appointed external directors include many former judges and prosecutors, such as former Prosecutor General Chung Sang-myoung, former Seoul High Court Chief Justice Kim Dong-gun and former Deputy Minister of Justice Lee Chang-jae.







Hyosung Group has faced a series of prosecutions over the past few years, so the appointment of legal experts has been regarded as the conglomerate's effort to protect the group and the chairman.

Pernod Ricard Korea CEO Jean Touboul

By Park Jae-hyuk



Pernod Ricard Korea (PRK) has been grappling with growing allegations that one of its executives has verbally abused and sexually harassed his subordinates.



The French distiller's local subsidiary has denied the charge, but the labor union disclosed a recording of the executive's abusive language toward an employee and vowed to make every effort to protest against the management.



According to the PRK labor union Sunday, the executive in charge of sales has abused workers since he came to the company in September 2016.



"To a female worker suffering from subfertility, the executive said she should have sex with her husband until she makes scratches on his back with her finger nails," the union said in a press release. "The shocked female worker left the company, and informed the union of what he said."



The executive is also alleged to have forced his subordinate to chew gum that he had chewed.



According to the union, the executive made sexually discriminatory remarks to another subordinate, saying female managers cannot take control of a team, unlike male managers can.



"Salespeople have been forced to work more than 12 hours a day, so nine of them took sick leave this year," the union said. "One of them even attempted suicide due to depression from overwork."



In addition, Pernod Ricard Korea CEO Jean Touboul has long been criticized for his terrible attitude toward the labor union.



When the labor union urged Touboul to resolve the problems, the chief executive allegedly tried to disband the union, saying he wants to attack the union and the union is an obstacle to the company.



"Internal resistance has been suppressed by the company's reshuffling and changes in personnel," the union said.



The union vowed to report the cases to the Ministry of Employment and Labor.



They are also considering going on strike, as they went on a 38-day walkout in 2015.



The management, however, said it conducted a thorough investigation about the sexual harassment accusation and concluded there is no evidence.



Also, the company said it did not experience any abnormal rate of employees who took sick leave or suffered excessive employee turnover compare to any other company.



"PRK and its management have never committed any unfair labor practices," the company spokeswoman said. "In particular, PRK and its management have always respected the union's rights and relevant laws. We will continue to do so in the future."



Given that Pernod Ricard Korea's status in the domestic whisky market has nosedived over the past few years, the recent labor dispute seems to weigh more on the company's profitability.



Since last year, the company has lagged behind domestic whisky distributor, Golden Blue, in its sales.



The local unit of the French company posted 1.9 trillion won ($1.7 billion) in sales between the 2016 and 2017 period, down from 2.2 trillion won between the 2015 and 2016 period and 2.5 trillion won between the 2014 and 2015 period.



Amid the worsening profitability, PRK moved its head office last year to Seoul Square near Seoul Station from Gangnam in southeastern Seoul.



Industry officials regard the move as a measure for cost reduction.



Pernod Ricard has run two Korean affiliates, including Pernod Ricard Korea importing foreign spirits and Pernod Ricard Korea Imperial producing local whisky.

Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo) Missouri voters will get to voice how they feel about a gas tax increase this November.





The state's general election ballot will ask voters to approve an incremental 10 cent bump to the motor fuel tax over four years.

Missouri's fuel tax is at 17 cents per gallon. The national average is about 8 cents higher.

Economy experts predict the tax could bring an additional $293 million to repair and maintain state roads and bridges.

Missouri is the 7th largest transportation system in the U.S., but it ranks 47th in funding.

If voters approve the gas tax increase, it will be the first time in more than 20 years.Its natural for kids to imitate their parents. But 12-year-old Shelbi Webb and her father Jason probably have no idea how similar they are.

We have the meats, said Shelbi Webb while sitting at a table in Salt Lake City Saturday afternoon. We have the meats, said her father while sitting next to her.

We have the comics, said Shelbi with a laugh. We have the comics, said her father with a smile.

Its safe to say they were best friends the day she was born.

My wife, when she was pregnant with Shelbi, she told me something I live with to this day, and that was if you want her to be your princess, you be her king. And I said challenge accepted, said Jason.

There was no way for his wife to know that was going to mean comic books and super heroes.

You should see my room. I cant even put up any pictures because theres so many pictures there, said Shelbi. Its fun being a nerd. You get to learn all about these different worlds that people come up with in their own heads.

But for all the worlds she escaped to in their Vernal home, it seemed nothing could stop what she was facing in real life.

I was bullied. Very severely. And I hated it. I really hated life at that point because it was so hard for me, said Shelbi. And the girl was relentless.

The only thing that seemed to help was when Shelbi would go into her room and make her own comics.

I was dealing with it in a way thats fun to me, which is writing and reading and creating stories. My imagination is crazy.

Its that imagination that brought Sugar Glider to life.

Sugar Glider is an adrenaline junkie. Shell go jumping off a cliff and fly down through things, said Shelbi.

In her comic book, Sugar Glider, whose real name is Jordyn McKenzie, got her powers after hiking up into a mountain when a meteor shower hit.

The meteor shower crashes into the mountains. She goes to inspect it and the ground crumbles beneath her and she falls in and gets cut. The particles in it infused with her blood, said Shelbi. She gets super speed, she gets high metabolism, she gets super healing, and she also gets an enlarged empathy.

Its that enlarged empathy that helps Sugar Glider deal with bullies.

Even though theyre bad guys, she wants to help them anyway. She doesnt want to fight them, though sometimes she has to. She doesnt want to put them in jail or lock them up or hurt them in any way. She takes them to therapists to help them, which is a way to say therapists arent a bad thing.

Imagine the bullies getting help.

My marketing degree kicked in and I found the artists and I found the people who printed the comic for us and all that stuff to actually make it into a reality for us, said Jason Webb.

Ever since, the comic has taken off.

Saturday in downtown Salt Lake City, the family held a launch party where Shelbi signed autographs kind of like a mini comic-con.

There were booths for fans of role-playing games, art work, and books.

Lots of people came dressed up as characters, such as the Joker, Arrow, and Flash.

Thank you for coming, said Shelbi as she signed autographs.

For all the attention Shelbi is now getting, though, her favorite part is knowing shes helping someone to go through the exact same thing she went through. One fan she met is Ivorie Tanner, who says she is being bullied in school. Ivorie is only five years old.

Its really hard to sit down with your child and know that theyre feeling like people at school dont like them and their classmates dont want to play with them, said Sylvee Tanner, who is Ivories mother. I was amazed it was happening. It affected her academically. She wouldnt go to class and was hiding in the counselors office. As a parent, that was frustrating.

Its also why she wanted to bring her daughter to meet Shelbi.

You just need to love yourself, okay? Be yourself, said Shelbi to Ivorie. I know its hard, but bullies, they wont mean anything. I was bullied, too, and look at me now. You can do great things.

Sugar Glider may only be a comic book, but more than that, its a message of hope at a time when, too often, kids think its easier to give up.

Youre not alone, thats mainly what it is. Youre not alone through all of this, said Shelbi. There are many people going through the same thing you are.

Knowing things will get better, thats the real super power.I realized that I needed people around me who were doing the same thing, says welder and furniture fabricator Meyghan Hill, reflecting on the winding road that brought her to Kohler Street and the group of studios and craftspeople colloquially known as the Kohler Street Collective. Growing up in South Bend, Indiana, shed bounced around a lot. I lived in a dozen places by the time I was 14. Thats probably where my affinity for things that belong in a home comes from. Eager to be on her own, she managed to wrangle a full scholarship to military school. I was like, This is genius! I can leave home four years earlier.

Though most people wouldve balked at the regimented discipline of military school, Hill thrived: I could do all the things I wanted. I had the college experience early.

Upon graduation she headed to New York, where she was spotted by a model agent and, astonishingly, booked the first job she was sent out on. Repped by Ford, she headed to Los Angeles on a job and decided to stay.

The pivot to metalwork came after she lost the home shed been renovating with her then-fiancee and found herself in an empty apartment in Hollywood that needed furniture. She thought shed learn how to weld. The whim catapulted her into a machine shop in the Valley. I figured Id twirl my hair and get someone to teach me. In retrospect, she admits, it couldve gone very wrong. Instead the tradesmen took her under their wing.

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Read the e-edition of June 2018s Design LA 

My designs grew organically from my experience there, Hill notes. I was using a lot of their scraps: steel security gates come in very specific lengths, so the cut-offs were all the same size.

In her hands those pieces became furniture legs. Refined, theyve become the basis for the strong geometrics of her blackened-steel tables, bejeweled by touches of brass. The through line from the scraps of stone she retrieved from the dumpster of the marble fabricator next door to the jagged headboard that forms the focal point of her majestic (wh)bed is clear.

Hill threw herself headlong into the grueling physicality of her new trade. For a year I worked all the time. I would leave my house and not see anyone, not talk to anyone, not speak. It was like immersion therapy. Although gratifying, the work was also isolating.

Succor came in the form of glassblower Uri Davillier. Davilliers route to his craft had been equally serendipitous. He was three years into an engineering degree at Case Western Reserve University when a friend asked if hed help out with a glass-blowing project. He was immediately hooked. It was the first time I experienced something where the nerdy side of my interest in engineering could be expressed in a really artistic way, he remembers. In fact, it was so revelatory that Davillier switched to the art school, and Ive been blowing glass ever since.

Upon graduation, he was offered a scholarship that would finance two months of travel, and he set off for Australia and New Zealand. They have an amazing glass scene there, he explains, because the raw material, the sand, is super pure. He stretched the grant money for two years with odd jobs, bouncing between the two countries until he accidentally overstayed his visa and found himself on a plane headed back to the States. There were two choices. The weather had driven me out of Cleveland, so I certainly wasnt going to go to New York. Instead he headed to Los Angeles.

Introduced by mutual friends in 2012, Hill and Davillier discovered an immediate kinship. Along with woodworker Westin Mitchell, they began looking for a space they could share, settling on a sprawling 7,000-foot warehouse a few blocks west of ROW DTLA.

Kohler Street, in the midst of skid row, is named after Charles Kohler, credited as one of the founders of Los Angeless winemaking industry. The row of buildings between 7th and 8th streets was long the site of the Southern California Hardwood and Lumber Manufacturing Company, which created the interior furnishings for the original Bullocks store. Later the structures became storage for seafood, produce and fabric.

The only things that were in this neighborhood when we moved here in January 2013 were Villains Tavern, Tonys and the taco truck on Mateo and Santa Fe, Davillier remembers. The first thing the trio did was build a long wooden bar that extended down one side of the vast workroom. Hill explains their reasoning: We knew we had to entice a customer base that was interested in the process and the fact that we were making it ourselves. Dubbed Design Night, the bimonthly events they host now draw a cross section of artists, interior designers and fellow craftspeople. The energy of their workspace captivated ceramicist Ben Medansky, who built his dream studio a few doors down.

While Mitchell and Medansky have since left (Medansky moved to Frogtown after his space burned down in 2016), others have eagerly taken their place. Visual artist Nick Knudson, architect Ben Ipekjian, Soho Design Houses Jacob Rahman, and Fathom and Forms Preston Johnston, an architectural fabrication company, have moved in. The large room hums with the vibrant chaos of people, work and animals.

Johnston suggested that Davillier switch his focus to lighting. Remembers Davillier, He mentioned that the one thing that every single architect is missing is really amazing lighting. Davillier took the recommendation seriously. The furniture and the setting can be crappy, but if the lighting is cool, you notice. The beauty of being able to sculpt with light is that it allows me to combine engineering, glass blowing, physics and chemistry into one expression of everything I know how to do. His early work, like the glass cage lights he created for Umami Burgers downtown branch, based on standard-issue work lamps, were inspired by industrial design. That job also birthed his knuckle, the connection point that holds glass to metal. Davilliers proprietary technique uses laser cuts and has become a signature of sorts, giving his work an elegant simplicity unmarred by awkward joints or extraneous fittings.

It was interior designer Tamara Kaye-Honey of House of Honey who gave Davillier the commission that put his work (which he sells under the name Neptune Glassworks) on the map. After he developed a series of lights based on glass chains for her shop, she approached him about creating a chandelier for Otium, the restaurant she was designing for The Broad Museum.

Rain, the fixture he created, is composed of 900 individually hand-pulled glass droplets that shower down from the spaces 23-foot-ceiling. Like many of his pieces, it finds its genesis in his math and science past. (His Circuit chandelier resembles the curvaceous construction of electrical wiring; the Lens chandelier nods to chemistrys structural formulas.) It was based off some quirky mathematics I studied in engineering school, he explains.

Fortuitously, Davillier had received his UL certification just before accepting the job. Those two things pushed me up to the level of having employees. His four-person crew, which includes a full-time glassblower, frees him up to spend more time designing. His current slate is a mix of restaurants  hes creating the lights for the highly-anticipated Tartine Bakery at ROW DTLA  and residential, including projects for Kaye-Honey and for Lene Schneider of Haus of Design.

The expansion of Davilliers business prompted Hill to move her studio into her home  a soaring 4,000-square-foot loft tucked into a vine-covered building  just across the street. Some days the most exercise I get is walking the hundred steps to Uris and back, she laughs. Although she enjoys the solitude of working alone, it can push her to the breaking point when a big order  like the 10 Daniel tables she created for the Clippers lounge or the 14 Jeffrey consoles Kaye-Honey ordered for the renovation of 8500 Sunset  comes in.

One of the biggest challenges Im confronted with is the sustainability of me being the fabricator, she says. Because at some point, and this is a great problem to have, if the demand keeps up, you either start charging enormous prices and you make a couple of pieces a year or you need to make this scalable. And thats been tough, because I feel like people respond to my brand because Im building it myself and I talk about that a lot.

Hill has hopes of one day creating a womens work force to support her. In Detroit theres a program called Women Who Weld, where they take women out of shelters and teach them the craft, she explains. She dubs this dream team her Whores Army, referring to her business name, (wh)Orehaus Studios, a tongue-in-cheek play on words, conjured up when she couldnt get the domain name she wanted. Orehaus was taken, and a friend suggested I add the w and the h. I reasoned that if anyone could do it, it would have to be a woman.

The definition of the word ore means something of value, says Hill. At the time, I was using materials that were meant to be discarded, so I was pulling value out of that. And I wanted to give this word that was meant to devalue a new value. Its very meta, and its been fun to see the evolution of that. But, she admits, not everyone loves it.

As her work evolves toward the future, Hill freely borrows from her past. Recent pieces, like her Restraint collection of tables wrapped in leather and trussed up with brass-buckled belts, nod to high fashion and its current focus on corsetry. Shes also designed a line of small goods, including marble and brass bookends, recently featured on GOOP; salt cellars; and leather cuffs sold in pairs and meant to shared with another bad-ass woman. Hill, like Davillier, is meticulous when it comes to craftsmanship; unsurprisingly, her work is carried by some of the most exclusive showrooms across the country, including Jay Jeffers in San Francisco, and featured in the homes of a whole bunch of Forbes Fifty under Fifty.

My perfect life would look very similar to what it is now, with just a little bit more ease in terms of business and doing more projects that I want to, Hill reflects. Some people have a little notebook by the side of their bed where they jot down their ideas. I can just get up and build it right there. So I really just want to keep that.

And she wants to stay on Kohler Street. Recently she welcomed designers Brynn Gelbard and Lisa Donohoe of Londubh Studio into her space. Our perception has always been that its really the epicenter of people pushing the boundaries in design within Los Angeles and supporting each other so they can take risks, says Gelbard about what drew the duo to the shop.

Hill agrees. It wasnt until I moved downtown that I really fell in love with Los Angeles, she says. This is not just a space, its a community, and its really valuable. Adds Davillier, I moved downtown because I was trying to replicate the experience I had in New Zealand: a beautiful studio and a group of people who were intensely invested in their craft. Done and done.Hello! Im Mark Olsen. Welcome to another edition of your regular field guide to a world of Only Good Movies.

The UCLA Film and Television Archive has two vital, exciting events coming up this week. On Friday there will be the Los Angeles premiere of the restoration of Personal Problems, the 1980 film from director Bill Gunn, best known for his Ganja and Hess. Then on Saturday there will be a rare screening of the long television version of Ingmar Bermans masterful 1973 Scenes From a Marriage starring Liv Ullmann and Erland Josephson.

On Monday our Indie Focus Screening Series will present the documentary Eating Animals, with a Q&A featuring director Christopher Quinn, co-producer and narrator Natalie Portman and writer Jonathan Safran Foer. Well have some more screening and Q&A events coming up soon. For info and updates, go to events.latimes.com.

From left, Evan Peters, Warren Lipka, Jared Abrahamson, Eric Borsuk, Spencer Reinhard, Barry Keoghan, Blake Jenner and Chas Allen, the actors and the real-life college students their characters were based on in American Animals. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times )

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American Animals

Written and directed by Bart Layton, who previously made the documentary The Imposter, the new American Animals is a fiction feature drawn from the true story of how four college boys tried to rob millions of dollars in rare books from a Kentucky university in 2004. The movie stars Evan Peters, Barry Keoghan, Jared Abrahamson and Blake Jenner as the would-be thieves and also features Ann Dowd and Udo Kier in supporting roles.

Kenneth Turan reviewed the film for The Times, writing, Juggling all these elements  crossing fiction with nonfiction and making a film that is simultaneously serious, funny and unexpected  would be impressive for anyone, but for a debuting narrative director like Layton its especially so . While the participants in American Animals only imagine theyre different, the film about them is the real deal.

I spoke to Layton, Peters, Jenner and one of the real-life subjects of the story, Warren Lipka. Layton talked about the divergence between the fantasy of the robbery in the gangs heads and the harsh reality they were confronted with while actually committing the crime.

In their minds it was Oceans Eleven, and in reality it was Dog Day Afternoon, Layton said. And that moment when the fantasy crashes into reality should feel like, This isnt the movie I signed up for.

Reviewing for the New York Times, A.O. Scott countered that the film, written and directed by Bart Layton, cant quite decide what it wants to be: a slick, speedy caper; a goofball comedy; or a commentary on the state of the American soul. Its none of those  a tame and toothless creature that is neither fish nor fowl.

At Vox, Alissa Wilkinson examined the film in comparison to other movies that blurred the lines between fact and fiction, noting, By the end of the film, its not clear that it has harnessed the power of its own narrative devices, which could stand to more effectively explore the illusions of grandeur and the boredom of the over-entertained . Theres a kernel of something interesting in the film, and its the movement between performance and reality that makes it work.

For Vanity Fair, K. Austin Collins added, The movie is so intent on depicting a sense of damage done  to the young mens sense of themselves, in particular  that it doesnt seem to realize how the crime reads to the rest of us, who know serious true-crime fare when we see it, and who likely sense that this doesnt quite qualify.

Melanie Vallejo and Logan Marshall-Green in Upgrade. (Stefan Duscio / BH Tilt )

Upgrade

The sci-fi horror picture Upgrade is written and directed by Leigh Whannell, whose credits include numerous Saw and Insidious movies, and finds him this time crafting a gritty story about a man who gambles that an experimental technology can restore his ability to walk and avenge the murder of his wife.

In his review for The Times, Justin Chang wrote, [I]f Upgrade ultimately plays like a genre exercise, its certainly a taut, engrossing one . Even when your brain rejects some of the plots more preposterous formulations, its hard to resist the sensory allure of the movies acrobatic camera moves, its dark neon-noir palette and its moody Jed Palmer score.

The Times Jen Yamato spoke to Whannell about the film, and they also tried out the self-parking feature on his car. As Whannell explained of the films origins, What was interesting to me wasnt robots; it was humans putting tech in their bodies. That idea of tech in us, and that we invite it willingly . Thats the part of me thats in Upgrade: This low hum of anxiety that exists under modern life.

At Vulture, Emily Yoshida called the film a great and grimy little screw-turner of sci-fi schlock, the kind that they truly dont make anymore, the kind that would make Carpenter and Cameron proud. Black Mirror will surely get thrown around as a comparison point, but Upgrade is purposefully more visceral (literally, abundant with viscera) and action oriented than a latter-day Twilight Zone. More importantly, its logical leaps are not in service of a more twisted and dark future vision, but rather, fun.

Who We Are Now director Matthew Newton, second from left, with stars Julianne Nicholson, Emma Roberts and Zachary Quinto. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times )

Who We Are Now

Julianne Nicholson is the kind of performer who often makes a strong impression in supporting roles, leaving viewers wanting to see more of her. Written and directed by Matthew Newton, Who We Are Now provides a platform for Nicholson, Emma Roberts and others to shine in a way they are often not allowed to do with its story of a woman trying to put her life and her family back together after being released from prison.

Reviewing the film for The Times, Noel Murray said, Nicholson and Roberts arent playing a cliched version of this story. Nor is anyone else in a well-stocked supporting cast, which includes Jimmy Smits, Jess Weixler and Zachary Quinto. Every minute of this film is absolutely mesmerizing. Its as if the stars are commanding the audiences attention, knowing they may never get this kind of showcase again.

For the New York Times, Glenn Kenny wrote that the film is about the idea of justice in everyday life, as epitomized by a speech Mr. Smitss character gives to the doubtful Jess in a key scene. Superbly acted and confidently shot, Who We Are Now delivers substantial dramatic pleasures while posing pertinent questions.

Email me if you have questions, comments or suggestions, and follow me on Twitter @IndieFocusOrange County firefighters continue to battle a 150-acre brush fire in the hills above Laguna Beach, but all mandatory evacuations had been lifted by Sunday night.

The fire remained 40% contained, and it is no longer spreading.

The fire has been stopped, said Orange County Fire Authority Battalion Chief Mike Summers, adding that some 400 firefighters were still actively mopping up the hot spots.

He said no structures have been lost or remained in danger. Three firefighters suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

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The fire started shortly after 1 p.m. Saturday below the Top of the World scenic lookout point and behind Soka University of America, fire officials said.

The biggest battle has been the thick brush that hasnt burned in over 100 years, and the erratic winds, said Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Tony Bommarito. Six air tankers and four helicopters were enlisted to fight the blaze, he said.

The flames chewed through brush left bone dry by years of drought across Southern California. The region saw a devastating fire season last year, with homes lost from San Diego to Bel-Air, and from Sylmar to Montecito. The Thomas fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties made history as the largest on record in California.

Experts have warned that the continued dry conditions throughout the region increase the chances for more big fires this summer.

Costa Mesa High Schools prom at Soka University was postponed a week due to the fire, school officials said.

On Saturday, an evacuation center was set up at the Susi Q Center, 380 3rd St., Laguna Beach. A Red Cross shelter was also opened at Aliso Niguel High School, 28000 Wolverine Way, Aliso Viejo.

Fire authorities are seeking the publics health to determine how the fire started.

james.queally@latimes.com

Twitter: @JamesQueallyLAT

christopher.goffard@latimes.com

Twitter: @LATchrisgoffard

UPDATES:

5:55 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from the Orange County Fire Authority.

This article was originally posted at 9:20 a.m.A campaign to recall a judge for a lenient sentence in a high-profile sexual assault case has fractured long-term friendships, divided the liberal Democratic community of Santa Clara County and pitted feminists against feminists.

Voters will decide Tuesday whether to recall Judge Aaron Persky, who two years ago sentenced Stanford University swimmer Brock Turner to six months in jail for assaulting a woman who lost consciousness after heavy drinking.

Turner, who was 19 at the time, was convicted of three felonies: two for digitally penetrating an unconscious or intoxicated person and one for assault with intent to commit rape. He served three months and must register as a sex offender for life.

The sentence sparked a national uproar, coming at a time of heightened awareness of campus sexual assaults and on the eve of the #MeToo movement. Persky, 56, appointed by former Gov. Gray Davis, is the first judge in California to face a recall vote in more than 80 years.

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Emotions are so high that vandals have spray-painted over lawn signs opposed to the recall. The pro-recall signs display a photo of Persky next to Turners mug shot, and both the judge and the woman leading the campaign to oust him have received threats.

There are many people, who have been allies on a lot of issues, who are on opposite sides of this particular one, said Santa Clara County Dist. Atty. Jeff Rosen, who opposes the recall.

Stanford law professor Michele Dauber has led the recall effort against Persky. (Jeff Chiu / Associated Press )

Among them are Perskys wife and Dr. Sophia Yen, one of the recall leaders, who had been friends for more than 10 years, attended parties at each others homes and whose children played together. They no longer talk.

Stanford law professor Michele Landis Dauber, who is a family friend of the victim in the Turner case, is the public face of the recall. She is a sociologist, not a lawyer, though she graduated from law school. She has long been an advocate for victims of sexual assault.

Leaders on the other side include two female Santa Clara University law professors, the first black female judge in Northern Californias state courts and a former federal public defender.

The legal community has largely opposed the recall, calling it a threat to judicial independence.

More than 90 California law professors, including 20 from Stanfords law school, have signed a statement opposing it. They say it will encourage judges to give tougher sentences and perpetuate mass incarceration.

Stanford law professor Deborah Rhode, who specializes in legal ethics, has remained neutral.

Turners sentence was egregiously inadequate, she said, but recalling the judge was the wrong response.

You dont want to set a precedent punishing judges for leniency because the system creates every incentive for them to operate on the reverse principle and throw away the key, Rhode said.

Dauber insisted that the recall would not make other judges more punitive.

I have greater faith in judicial integrity than apparently the dim view that Judge Perskys supporters have, she said.

U.S. Rep. Zoe Lofgren, a liberal Democrat from San Jose, and the bar associations of Santa Clara and San Mateo counties oppose the recall.

In favor are the National Organization for Women and other womens groups, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and several members of Congress and the state Legislature.

Recall proponents accuse Persky of being easy on criminals who come from privileged backgrounds in sexual assault and domestic violence cases.

Instead of seeing Turner as a calculated, lying, unrepentant sex predator, Dauber said, Persky, refracted through the lens of privilege, sees a good kid who made a mistake.

Dauber has singled out a handful of cases Persky handled that she said reflected bias in favor of people of privilege.

The anti-recall campaign disputed her version of the cases, noting that one of the defendants was a plumber and that another judge, not Persky, sentenced one of the other defendants.

To the extent you can find a pattern, for young offenders with no prior record, he did often give them a sentence which gave them a chance  and tried to keep them in school or in a job, said Santa Clara University law professor Ellen Kreitzberg, one of the anti-recall leaders. He did it regardless of race or ethnicity.

Californias Commission on Judicial Performance, a watchdog agency, received thousands of complaints about Persky after Turners sentencing and issued a statement saying it found no bias.

Persky stopped hearing criminal cases after the Turner uproar and now works from home as a night judge, issuing warrants and protective orders in domestic violence cases.

Four years are left in his six-year term.

Persky said in an interview that he never seriously considered resigning, though he has had to beef up security at his home and be escorted into the courthouse by a sheriffs deputy through an entrance used for jail inmates.

He said he believes voters will reject the recall if they look at it dispassionately because most people want judges who can follow the rule of law and ignore public opinion, as required by Californias code of judicial ethics.

I think it is critical to prevail because if the recall wins, it is sort of a blueprint for judicial recalls in the future, Persky said.

Some judges already are questioning their decisions and issuing stricter sentences, Rosen and others said. Rosens office sought a six-year prison term for Turner, and Rosen publicly condemned the six-month sentence.

After Turners sentencing, Rosen went to Sacramento and won passage of a law that makes the crimes Turner committed punishable by a mandatory three years in prison  the same sentence required when sexual assault is by force.

Rosen said Persky was not considered a particularly lenient judge, and most judges in California would have done the same thing two years ago. Turner had no criminal record, and the seriousness of campus sexual assaults was not as appreciated back then, Rosen said.

Turner, who also was intoxicated during the assault, was sentenced to three years probation, withdrew from Stanford and returned home to Ohio, where neighbors will be notified of his sex offender status whenever he moves. He cannot live near schools or child care centers.

The case gained notoriety when Rosens office released a lengthy written statement by the victim after the sentencing. It reflected her immense pain and went viral. She was 22 when assaulted and did not attend Stanford.

Former Vice President Joe Biden commended her courage and expressed furious anger. Actress Sharon Stone read the statement aloud at a symposium Rosen organized to address campus sexual assault.

Two years later, after what has happened, now everybody says, I would have sent Turner to prison, Rosen said.

So much has changed in the last two years, he said. This case was in some ways an early precursor to the #MeToo movement.

Yen, who teaches pediatric medicine at Stanford, said Perskys sentence had a chilling effect on women everywhere and discouraged victims from reporting sexual assaults.

Yen called it sad that her long friendship with Perskys wife, whom she described as a feminist, has suffered as a result of the Turner case.

Yen emailed her friend two years ago to ask if her husband would resign and spare his family the public attention/humiliation of a recall and the prospect of recall billboards with his photograph.

Perskys wife, who the anti-recall campaign asked not to be identified because of concern for her safety, demurred.

The recall campaign has raised about $1.2 million. Records show anti-recall committees reported contributions of $1.1 million, $400,000 of that in non-monetary legal services.

Two candidates will appear on the ballot Tuesday to succeed Persky should the recall succeed: Assistant Santa Clara Dist. Atty. Cindy Hendrickson, who supports the recall, and civil lawyer Angela Storey, who opposes it.

Dauber has accused Perskys supporters of victim blaming, and people get so angry at campaign events, Santa Clara Universitys Kreitzberg said. To quell that anger, she and other recall opponents stress they are not defending a sexual assault.

This is not a referendum on rape or rape culture, Kreitzberg said. We are against rape and sexual assault, and we share common abhorrence of violence against women and children.

maura.dolan@latimes.com

Twitter: @mauradolanPresident Trump wants North Korea to do something unprecedented in the history of arms control  to reveal all the secrets of a vast nuclear weapons complex it has spent decades concealing and billions to build.

No one expects that kind of breakthrough when Trump sits down with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore. Even Trump has acknowledged the summit will start a process.

But if Kim subsequently agrees to disarm in stages over the next decade or longer, the most likely outcome if a nuclear deal ultimately is struck, the massive effort would require hundreds of international nuclear inspectors to help dismantle warheads, shut down facilities, interview North Korean scientists, unravel procurement systems, physically tag and monitor bomb-making equipment, and do much more.

At this point, not enough nuclear experts may exist to visit the hundreds of buildings, track down the voluminous records and conduct the comprehensive inspections required to verify compliance. Nothing approaching such a sweeping agreement with a closed police state like North Korea has been attempted in the history of nuclear disarmament.

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This situation is without precedent, said Daryl Kimball, a nonproliferation expert with the Arms Control Assn., a Washington policy organization. No country that has openly conducted test explosions and amassed a nuclear arsenal as North Korea has done has ever willingly eliminated its stockpile.

U.S. intelligence agencies believe Pyongyang has assembled as many as 60 nuclear weapons and built a widely dispersed network of secret development and production facilities, some deep underground in the countrys rugged northern mountains, to create fissile material and testing components, and to assemble and store the actual warheads.

As part of any deal, U.S. officials also are likely to seek restrictions on North Koreas ballistic missiles, especially those capable of hitting U.S. soil. Additional outside experts thus would be needed to inspect missile factories and test sites.

No matter how intrusive the inspections, there would be almost no way to guarantee North Korea wasnt concealing a stash of components or a fully assembled warhead in case Kim or his successors faced a future threat to their survival, former officials and inspectors said.

Say they declare 30 nukes. Can you verify 30? Yes, said Robert Gallucci, who led 1994 talks with North Korea for the Clinton administration and is a professor at Georgetown University. Can we ever, ever be certain they dont have five other nukes somewhere? Absolutely not.

If an accord with North Korea is struck, Pyongyang probably first would be required to submit a full accounting of its nuclear program  back to the beginning  to the International Atomic Energy Agency, the United Nations nuclear watchdog agency based in Vienna. That would be followed by comprehensive IAEA inspections aimed at confirming  or disproving  details in the documents.

Given the scale of Pyongyangs program, the IAEA would need to hire and train a major new workforce and build or buy sophisticated monitoring equipment, from sensors to cameras, to ensure North Korea doesnt cheat. The agency also would need the U.N. Security Council to approve the operation and fund it with a budget increase.

The IAEA said last year it had about 300 inspectors, including 80 who are working to monitor Irans 27 mostly dormant nuclear facilities as part of the 2015 nuclear accord that Trump abandoned last month. Iran and the other signatories are still honoring the agreement.

North Korea, by contrast, is believed to have up to 100 clandestine sites, according to a report by Rand Corp., a think tank based in Santa Monica. And Iran never built any nuclear weapons or intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Trump administration officials say their goal is complete, verifiable and irreversible disarmament, a high bar in a country that has pursued nuclear weapons for decades and on a far larger scale than Iran, Iraq, Libya and South Africa ever did. Those countries all gave up or were forced to give up their nuclear programs.

South Africa may be the closest parallel. It dismantled its arsenal in 1989, the only country ever to give up nuclear arms that it had developed itself, as it prepared to move from apartheid to black majority rule. But its program was tiny compared to North Koreas.

South Africa dismantled on their own in secret, then only later admitted to having a program, said Frank Pabian, a former IAEA inspector and retired nonproliferation expert. North Korea is a declared nuclear weapons state. Thats why Im not optimistic.

IAEA inspectors last arrived at North Koreas main nuclear complex at Yongbyon, north of Pyongyang, in 2007. All international inspectors were expelled in 2009 when North Korea pulled out of so-called six-party talks in Beijing and resumed its nuclear enrichment program.

Any inspectors sent to North Korea would not be operating completely in the dark, however.

They presumably would have access to IAEA reports, satellite surveillance and intelligence from the U.S. and other countries about known and suspected nuclear facilities, identities of key scientists to interview, information from defectors, and even reports from experts allowed to visit key sites.

Siegfried Hecker, a former director of the nuclear weapons laboratory at Los Alamos, N.M., has toured North Koreas major nuclear facilities four times and is the only U.S. scientist to visit its facility for enriching uranium, a bomb fuel. U.S. intelligence agencies had not spotted its construction.

A new study on the issue that Hecker coauthored with fellow Stanford University researchers Robert Carlin and Elliot Serbin warns that in the short term, North Korea will surely hedge its bets by retaining parts of the program.

Uranium enrichment facilities would be problematic, they wrote. North Korea has covert facilities that it is unlikely to declare and eliminate initially.

Rather than pushing for a swift disarmament, the report suggests small, achievable steps, including a continued freeze on nuclear and ballistic missile tests and a shut-down of the enrichment facility at Yongbyon. It might take six to 10 years of phased concessions on both sides before the nuclear risk is substantially eliminated.

Even if Pyongyang cooperated initially with the inspectors, it is likely to ratchet its compliance up and down, seeking leverage over the U.S. and others rivals in the region, experts said.

If the IAEA gains access to North Korean records, it may be able to determine how much fissile material it has produced. That could lead to a more precise understanding about how many operational nuclear devices Pyongyang has built.

Dismantling the warheads probably would be carried out by North Korean scientists, monitored by experts from other nuclear powers, possibly including the United States, which has extensive experience in disassembling warheads. The IAEA doesnt have that expertise and Hecker warns that shipping them out of the country is naive and dangerous.

To ensure Pyonyang cannot rebuild its warheads, the U.S. may push for taking fissile material out of North Korea permanently. But after decades of working to acquire fuel for nuclear weapons, Pyongyang would almost certainly balk at giving it up.

In that case, fissile material might have to be stored in North Korea, in sealed facilities subject to IAEA monitoring.

We would be happy to have a situation where we thought we had accounted for 90% of North Koreas nuclear capability, said Gary Samore, an arms control official in the Obama and Clinton administrations who now heads the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University. Even if there was a possibility they had salted away a couple of nuclear weapons for a rainy day that would be a huge achievement.

david.cloud@latimes.com

Twitter: @davidcloudLATIn a sharp rebuke from one of Americas closest allies, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau criticized the White House rationale for imposing punitive trade tariffs on Canada as insulting and unacceptable, the latest leader to warn of a looming trade war with the U.S.

The complaint was a dramatic departure from the conciliatory approach Trudeau has shown to President Trump over the last year, and signaled the growing pushback from U.S. allies to the protectionist trade policies.

The White House announced last week that Canada, Mexico and the European Union nations would face a stiff 25% tariff on imported steel and a 10% tariff on imported aluminum. Initially announced in March, the levies took effect Friday.

In imposing them, Trump invoked a little-used provision in the law that permits the use of tariffs to counter a national security threat.

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Trudeau denied on NBCs Meet the Press that Canada or its steel and aluminum industries posed any such menace. Canada is one of Americas largest trading partners and one of its closest military and political allies.

The idea that we are somehow a national security threat to the United States is, quite frankly, insulting and unacceptable, Trudeau said.

He said Canada would impose retaliatory tariffs against American-made steel and aluminum, as well as on other goods. Officials have said cheese, whiskey, orange juice and dozens of other items will be targeted, many from states that Trump won in 2016, in an effort to pressure him to reverse course.

Were putting the same kinds of tariffs exactly on steel and aluminum coming from the United States into Canada to be directly reciprocal, Trudeau said. But were also putting a number of tariffs on consumer goods, finished products for which Canadians have easy alternatives.

The confrontation, he warned, will hurt consumers and workers on both sides of the border.

One of the truths about tariffs is they drive up costs for consumers, Trudeau said. And on top of that, these tariffs are going to be hurting American workers and Canadian workers.

Other allies have denounced the tariffs in similarly harsh terms. French President Emmanuel Macron, who has publicly embraced Trump several times, told reporters Thursday that Trumps decision to impose tariffs is not only unlawful, but it is a mistake in many respects.

Economic nationalism leads to war, he warned.

Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray labeled the tariffs unjust and unilateral but said Mexico will continue to negotiate with Washington to revamp the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Trump has made no secret of his overriding concern about U.S. trade imbalances, viewing them as a sign of American weakness around the globe. The tariffs are unusual because they target some of the U.S.s closest allies.

Trudeau suggested Trump was disregarding shared history and values with Canada.

The idea that our soldiers who had fought and died together on the beaches of World War II, on the mountains of Afghanistan and have stood shoulder to shoulder in some of the most difficult places in the world, that are always there for each other  this is insulting to that, he said.

Trudeau, who took office in 2015, is expected to press his case directly with Trump next weekend when Canada hosts the annual G-7 summit, which brings together leaders of the worlds largest economies, in Quebec.

The White House on Sunday pushed back against the notion that Trumps trade moves were unfair or irreversible.

Good-faith negotiations are welcome, and we hope to continue there, Larry Kudlow, the presidents top economic advisor, said on Fox News Sunday. He said Trudeau was overreacting to the new tariffs.

I dont think our tariffs are anything to do with our friendship and long-standing alliance with Canada, Kudlow said. So I dont think things are broken down.

House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy of Bakersfield also defended the tariffs, saying Trump was standing up to protect U.S. interests. He denied that the confrontation could be considered a trade war at this juncture.

We are in the middle of a trade discussion  nobody wants to be in a trade war, McCarthy said on CNNs State of the Union.

Nobody wins a trade war, he said.

laura.king@latimes.com

@laurakingLATThe shooting death of a prominent forensic psychiatrist who assisted in high-profile murder cases including serial killings in Phoenix is connected to the slayings of two paralegals, said authorities, who were looking into a possible fourth homicide Saturday.

Police in the Phoenix suburb of Scottsdale said the slayings Friday of Veleria Sharp, 48, and Laura Anderson, 49, were related to the fatal shooting a day earlier of Dr. Steven Pitt.

Police Sgt. Ben Hoster would not disclose what connected the three victims. I cant get into the specifics of that, he said, citing the ongoing investigation.

Witnesses heard a loud argument and gunfire Thursday outside Pitts Scottsdale office. Phoenix police have been investigating the shooting and previously said they had no information on whether the killing was related to Pitts work.

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Sharp and Anderson were both shot inside a law office Friday afternoon. According to Scottsdale police, one of the women managed to walk to an intersection for help despite suffering a gunshot wound to the head. She was taken to a hospital, where she died. Officers, meanwhile, followed a blood trail back to the business and found the other woman. She was pronounced dead at the scene from a gunshot wound.

Scottsdale police received a call early Saturday about a man found fatally shot inside a business. Hoster did not identify the victim, who was discovered by someone known to him. The killing occurred in an office park that houses mostly therapists and counselors.

Hoster said it was not yet known whether this death was related to the others.

Pitt, 59, assisted in the investigation into the 1996 death of 6-year-old JonBenet Ramsey, who was found dead at her home in Boulder, Colo.

A decade later, he helped Phoenix police in the Baseline Killer investigation as they sought a man who was later convicted of killing nine people.Voters who pass up the June 5 election will find in November that others have made many of their decisions for them. For example, the states top-two primary system dictates that in five months, there will be two finalists to succeed Gov. Jerry Brown, and polling suggests that one of them will be Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat. But who will be the other? John Cox, a Republican endorsed by President Trump? Or Antonio Villaraigosa, the Democratic former Assembly speaker and L.A. mayor? Or someone else?

A similar story is shaping up in the U.S. Senate race, where polling shows incumbent Dianne Feinstein well ahead of fellow Democrat Kevin de Leon, who in turn is just slightly ahead of Republican James P. Bradley. Until California changed its primary system a decade ago, we could be assured that the November contests would pit a Democrat against a Republican, as well as the standard-bearers in smaller parties. But depending on voter decisions Tuesday, we could end up with two Democrats, two Republicans or two just about anything else  not just in these races but in every congressional and partisan statewide race.

In other races, its a different system. In county races (for sheriff, for example), in judicial races and in the superintendent of public instruction contest, any candidate who gets more than half the vote Tuesday wins outright, with no November runoff.

The Times endorses selectively, and in this round, it has focused on those races of greatest interest and those that could be concluded on June 5.

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Our recommendations:

U.S. senator: Dianne Feinstein. Californias senior senator faces a serious challenge from state Sen. Kevin de Leon, who calls himself the leader of the resistance to President Trump. But Feinstein has performed well and presents a dignified and pragmatic counterweight to the White House and her GOP counterparts. This is not the time to trade away seniority, gravitas and experience.

Governor: Antonio Villaraigosa. When he was Los Angeles mayor, Villaraigosa showed character and political courage by making tough budget decisions during a severe economic downturn, upsetting traditional supporters but doing what he believed was right. As Assembly speaker, he demonstrated a keen ability to bring people together to advance needed legislation. He is a tested leader.

Superintendent of Public Instruction: Tony Thurmond. Its a close call, but Assemblyman Thurmond is a slightly stronger candidate than Marshall Tuck. Thurmond has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to at-risk students and a deep understanding of the obstacles they face.

Proposition 68: Yes. This $4.1-billion bond would help pay for state and local parks, crucial water projects and rivers (including the Los Angeles, San Gabriel and Santa Ana rivers). Yes, weve had other water bonds, and we will have more, including an even larger one in November. Voters should be wary of excessive debt. But this bond is needed, and the interest payments would be well within the guidelines for prudent expenditures.

Proposition 69: Yes. This measure requires the fuel tax and vehicle fee revenue raised last year to be spent, as intended, solely on transportation projects, such as construction, repair and maintenance of highways, roads, bridges, traffic reduction and public transit.

Proposition 70: No. Proposition 70 is ballot junk food, filling space without providing anything of substance. Its the result of a deal between Democrats and Republicans to require a two-thirds supermajority vote in the Legislature to approve how cap-and-trade revenue is spent in  get this  one year only, 2024. Every year until then, and every year after, the regular simple majority rule would still apply. What? Exactly. Its silly. Just say no.

Proposition 71: Yes. If a ballot measure doesnt specify when it takes effect, it kicks in the day after the election  even if all the votes are not yet counted and were not even sure whether it actually passed. This measure eliminates that goofiness by delaying the effective date until after the results are in and the election is certified.

Proposition 72: Yes. This measure would ensure that property taxes dont go up just because the owner adds a rainwater capture system. As with fire safety systems and earthquake retrofitting, Californians should not be penalized for adding something that is beneficial to the whole community.

Los Angeles County Sheriff: Jim McDonnell. Reform of the department under McDonnell remains a work in progress, and in some respects, his first term has been underwhelming. Still, he remains a better choice than challengers Bob Lindsey and Alex Villanueva, who are good at detailing their disappointment with the incumbent but not at laying out how they would do better.

Los Angeles County Assessor: Jeffrey Prang. Three appraisers in the Assessors Office think they can do a better job than their boss, but its hard to see how. Prang has erased the taint of corruption left by John Noguez, his disgraced predecessor, and has improved his offices efficiency and public service. Prang is doing well and should be allowed to continue in a second term.

Los Angeles County Supervisor, District 1: Hilda Solis. Solis has served her district well. Thats a good thing because nothing on election day will stop her from being elected to another four-year term. No one filed to run against her.

Los Angeles County Supervisor, District 3: Sheila Kuehl. Currently the chair of the Board of Supervisors, Kuehl has helped move the county forward on a variety of needed initiatives, including housing the homeless and overhauling justice programs.

Superior Court Judge:

Office No. 4: Alfred A. Coletta. An experienced criminal prosecutor, Coletta has tried a wide variety of criminal cases and has won plaudits from defense lawyers and judges for fairness.

Office No. 16: Sydne Jane Michel. Michel is a seasoned Redondo Beach prosecutor who has the presence to command a courtroom while still respecting the lawyers appearing before her.

Office No. 20: Wendy Segall. Critiques from lawyers who have worked with each of the two candidates in this race give the edge to Segall.

Office No. 60: Holly L. Hancock. An accomplished deputy public defender, Hancock likely will make a good judge.

Office No. 63: Malcolm H. Mackey. Mackey is the only judge in this years L.A. Superior Court election who is being challenged for reelection. He is a good judge with decades of experience, and the public would be well-served by keeping him on the job.

Office No. 67: Maria L. Armendariz. Armendariz is a judge of the State Bar Court, which hears professional misconduct cases against lawyers and metes out discipline as necessary. Her professional background is varied and impressive.

Office No. 71: David A. Berger. An impressive criminal prosecutor, Berger has the experience and demeanor required of a good judge.

Office No. 113: Michael P. Ribons. Ribons is a civil trial lawyer and offers an appealing brand of experience somewhat different from the typical judicial candidate.

Office No. 118: David D. Diamond. The chairman of the Burbank Police Commission, Diamond is also a criminal defense lawyer.

Office No. 126: Rene Caldwell Gilbertson. A deputy Los Angeles County counsel, Gilbertson has spent most of her career in dependency court, representing abused or neglected children. The court is badly in need of judges in dependency cases, and Gilbertson would prove an asset.

Office No. 146: Emily T. Spear. Spear is a deputy district attorney and the best choice for this seat.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and FacebookSometimes the news strikes like a jab to the solar plexus, leaving you gasping for air and knowing that your life will never again be the same. For me such a moment came in the spring of 1968, lying on my living room floor in Indianapolis, where I was going to college.

Robert F. Kennedy had just won the California Democratic presidential primary, news that I received with great satisfaction. I had volunteered for the Kennedy campaign in the Indiana primary, where we also won. And now, as the senator said, It was on to Chicago. Back then it was expected that Chicago would host a political convention when the Democrats came to town, not a riot.

I had gotten comfortable with a pillow on the floor  I dont think I had a couch  and I was drifting off to sleep. Because of the time difference it was very late in Indiana. Then I heard the television commentators talking about Kennedy being shot and I wondered why, at this moment, they would once again review the assassination of John F. Kennedy. I opened my eyes and saw Bobby in black and white on the floor, and everything was different.

Fifty years later, we tend to talk about 1968 as though it was a single experience. But everybody had their own 68. The first half of mine was spent thinking Bobby was the solution. The second half  and really my life ever since  was spent thinking there is no solution.

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Kennedy was an unusual political phenomenon, perhaps unique in U.S. history. He was a part of the political establishment, an establishment that had been reluctant and too slow to act on civil rights and that had led us into war in Vietnam. Though Kennedy had a distant Irish immigrant background, he was not a man of the people. He was wealthy, and at least those of us from New England (in my case, Hartford, Conn.) were well aware that his money derived from his father, who was a big-time crook. And yet a lot of everyday people identified with RFK.

Kennedy was an unusual political phenomenon, perhaps unique in U.S. history.

I only met him once. It was during the Indiana primary campaign, and he happened to be sitting next to me at a restaurant called Sams Subway. Sams was the place to hang out in Indianapolis, and it was inevitable that along with college students, the candidates and campaign workers would show up there.

I turned and introduced myself as a volunteer on his campaign (I hadnt done much), and he shook my hand, smiled and said something predictable in his famous accent. People in Indiana called it a Boston accent, but my father and many of my relatives were from Boston and they didnt sound anything like him. In fact, he had a Cape Cod accent, the accent of the yachting crowd, of aristocrats.

I got that, but something else struck me, even though I was only 19. He seemed like a kid. He was eating ice cream  he was famous for loving ice cream  and then there was the way he still went by the name Bobby. Even though he was considerably older than I was, I had the sense that Bobby was coming of age with me.

Kennedy embodied the extraordinary political transformation of my generation. We were challenging the beliefs of our parents, growing impatient that the civil rights movement had not accomplished enough, and that the country had succumbed to mindless materialism while people were going hungry. I woke up every morning in those days infuriated by the mass murder we were unleashing in Vietnam.

And suddenly here was this patrician politician having the same thoughts. He turned against the war that had been fostered by men he knew and admired; hed named his children after two of them, W. Averell Harriman and Gen. Maxwell Taylor. He traveled to the South and was appalled by institutionalized segregation. He met with Cesar Chavez and the United Farm Workers and supported the struggle of these immigrant laborers (though he never could pronounce Viva la huelga!). He even spoke out against the American obsession with economic growth and denounced the gross national product as a measure of the strength of America.

I stood with hundreds of others at a Kennedy rally in downtown Indianapolis when he broke the news that Martin Luther King Jr. had been shot and killed. It has been recorded that Kennedy stopped a riot in Indianapolis with his compassionate words that night. But to be honest, those deeply saddened people around me did not seem in a mood for rioting. He said he had experienced this kind of pain before, that for some reason this kind of violence was American, but he left us with a sense that he would go on and so would we all. Two months later he was dead.

No politician quite like Bobby Kennedy has come along since. Had he lived, I am almost certain the Vietnam War would have ended years, and many thousands of lives, earlier. Perhaps Jim Crow could have been attacked in such a way that African Americans today would not still be fighting for equal treatment, and even, again, the right to vote. We are still using military might and horrific violence to bend small, poor nations to our will; it has become almost a way of life for us as a nation. Gun violence is an epidemic, and there is not the political will to curb it.

Today we ask the question: What if Robert Kennedy hadnt been shot? Would Bobby, could Bobby have put an end to our worst instincts? With his rare combination of establishment credentials and anti-establishment thinking, he might have accomplished a lot. But on that June night in 1968, I came to understand that in this country where anyone could be shot dead at any moment, our demons were deep within us. There would be no magical leaders to save us from ourselves.

Mark Kurlansky is the author of 31 books, including 1968: The Year that Rocked the World and the just-published Milk: A 10,000 Year Food Fracas.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand FacebookThe U.S. Supreme Court will soon decide on the legality of President Trumps travel ban, a policy that has provoked immense division and cries that we have entered unprecedented territory.

In fact, neither the ban nor the legal clash over it are without precedent. The case will be decided within legal bounds established by a Supreme Court justice named Stephen J. Field, a Californian who took his seat on the court 155 years ago this month. Fields rulings over Chinese laborers became the cornerstone of constitutional law regarding foreigners who wish to start a new life in America.

Appointed by President Lincoln during the Civil War, Field was the courts first westerner and one of its fiercest, most iconoclastic justices. He left New York City for California in 1848 at the start of the Gold Rush  if not to strike it rich, then to provide legal services to those who might.

He found San Francisco strange and wild, a Babel-like tent city hosting every nation under Heaven, including Chinese immigrants, many of whom had received news of the Gold Rush before Americans in Boston or New York.

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By the early 1870s, California had four workers for every job, but Chinese workers  mostly young men eager to work for a fraction of the wages paid to white workers  continued to pour off steamers. Back then, San Francisco was no sanctuary city. It would have been far more inhospitable had it not been for Field.

Field first showed courage against a growing tide of anti-Chinese sentiment in 1874, when he struck down a California law that let state officials arbitrarily refuse landing to lewd foreigners.

I have little respect for that discriminating virtue which is shocked when a frail child of China is landed on our shores, Field wrote at the time, after 21 young Chinese women were detained at port, and yet allows the bedizened and painted harlot of other countries to parade our streets.

Five years later, Field declared unconstitutional San Franciscos infamous pigtail ordinance, which required the hair of male prisoners to be clipped to one inch. The decree was cast as a sanitary measure, but Field saw through that reasoning, ruling correctly that, in fact, it was wanton cruelty targeting Chinese men who wore long braids out of piety.

No matter how courts rule, in other words, an enlightened public opinion always has the last word.

Fields decisions destroyed his presidential ambitions, but they cemented his reputation as the protector of the Chinese. For years afterward, Chinese laborers gathered to greet him when he arrived for his annual stay at San Franciscos Palace Hotel.

Hostility toward Chinese immigrants soon went national. Congress suspended Chinese immigration in 1882 with the Chinese Exclusion Act. In 1889, Field held that excluding Chinese immigrants, as a basic exercise in sovereignty, was indeed constitutional, in Chae Chan Ping vs. United States.

But when Congress passed a law that threatened to uproot and deport 93,445 lawful Chinese residents in 1892, Field objected furiously. His colleagues upheld the law, in Fong Yue Ting vs. United States, but Field dissented, condemning what he saw as approval of an inhumane despotic power. President Cleveland and much of Congress, thankfully, lacked the will to enforce the law, so the mass deportation never took place.

Fields positions eventually won in the court of public opinion. Although Congress retains near unlimited power to keep out non-citizens who lack legal rights to be here, we have come to accept that immigrants who do receive permission to pass through our gates should enjoy almost all of the basic liberties and property rights that citizens do. The Trump administration admitted as much when it revised its original travel ban to not affect foreign nationals with visas.

Clevelands solicitor general in the deportation case, George A. Jenks, argued that Americas most dangerous enemies were not armed invaders but alien races who debase our labor and poison the health and morals of [our] communities. But Trumps solicitor general, Noel Francisco, has conceded that if the court finds the travel ban was in fact motivated by racial or religious hostility, the justices are empowered to block it.

The long tradition of our courts has been to let presidential proclamations speak for themselves, without looking at concealed motives. Although the Supreme Court was asked to consider whether Trump invoked national security as a pretext for hostility toward Islam, a majority of the justices are likely to avoid the question.

This, too, would be following precedent set by Justice Field, who argued that courts of law should avoid political or ethical thickets by evaluating whether a president has the power to act, not whether that power is exercised with honorable motives. The moral aspects of a presidents actions, Field said, ought to be judged before the public, in the halls of Congress, and in all the modes by which the public mind can be influenced.

No matter how courts rule, in other words, an enlightened public opinion always has the last word.

Joseph Tartakovsky is the former deputy solicitor general of Nevada and the author of The Lives of the Constitution: Ten Exceptional Minds that Shaped Americas Supreme Law.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook.The top priority for Democrats pushing back against President Trump is gaining control of at least one branch of Congress this year, but theyre also focused on a pivotal seat lower on the ballot  state attorney general.

The top state law enforcement position comes with a political weapon Democrats have wielded 47 times since Trump took office: They have sued the administration as a way to halt policies they regard as unconstitutional or otherwise harmful. Attorneys general have gone to court over immigration, the environment, birth control and internet regulation, among other issues.

Thats a key reason the races are starting to gain attention and money.

No one is above the law, not even the president of the United States, said Sean Rankin, executive director of the Democratic Attorneys General Assn. Thats the cornerstone message.

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How well that works as a selling point will be tested in some of the same swing states that also are key to presidential elections. Among them are Colorado, Florida, Michigan, Nevada and Ohio, which Democrats are targeting as possible pickups because the current Republican attorneys general are not running again.

They also are targeting Republican incumbents in Arizona and Wisconsin as well as in heavily Republican Alabama, Arkansas and Georgia in an effort to add to their total of 23 attorneys general. In all, 30 states and the District of Columbia will have elections for attorney general this year.

Yet for all the pushback against Trump administration policies, how far to take the message of resistance is causing a split in some Democratic primary contests. Some candidates say opposing Trump is important but should not be all-consuming.

The rift has made for some spirited Democratic campaigns.

In Colorado, first-time candidate Phil Weiser, a law school dean, explains in a TV commercial that hes running for state attorney general because of Trump. The ad shows the former Obama administration official as preoccupied with ways to hold the presidents policies in check, even taking notes about it while hiking with his family in the Rocky Mountains.

The reality is we have a federal government right now that is disregarding the rule of law, Weiser said in an interview.

Inside an urban winery in a former warehouse surrounded by auto repair shops, state Rep. Joe Salazar, who also is seeking the office, took a jab at Weiser last month. He told about 30 supporters that anyone inspired to run by opposition to Trump must have lived a very privileged life.

Salazar, a civil rights lawyer endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), said its a given that either Democrat would take on the president.

Thats the low-hanging fruit, he said. Were all going to be joining lawsuits or initiating lawsuits against the administration.

But he said he decided to run for different reasons  to spread economic benefits, protect the environment and take actions that help children.

Whichever Democrat wins Colorados June 26 primary will face a Republican who says that going after the president is not what an attorney general should be doing.

Theyre looking for an excuse to bring Donald Trump into this race, George Brauchler, a district attorney, said in an interview. Theyre going to try to convert this AGs office into a political ambulance-chaser.

Attorneys general of both parties have made suing the federal administration a bigger part of their job in recent years.

Marquette University political science researcher Paul Nolette counted 62 multistate lawsuits over eight years against policies of President Obama, largely over what Republicans saw as federal overreach. That included one opposing Obamas healthcare overhaul just minutes after it was signed into law.

Texas Republican Greg Abbott, now the states governor, repeatedly described his job this way: I go into the office, I sue the federal government and I go home. But Republicans bristle when Democrats sound a similar note.

The Republican Attorneys General Assn. has a website criticizing Michigan Democrat Dana Nessel on a litany of topics, including telling supporters that she would sue Trump, who carried the state in 2016, all day, every day.

That message worked for Nessel when she won the nomination at a state Democratic convention this spring over a union-backed former U.S. attorney appointed by Obama.

Nessel told the Associated Press that voters want an attorney general to protect the state from federal policies that could hurt them. For example, she said, Michigans large Arab population is vulnerable to Trumps restrictions on travel from certain Muslim-majority countries and his administrations plan to add a citizenship question to the 2020 U.S. Census.

Theres an eagerness to use the Michigan attorney general to fight back, said Nessel, who had the backing of Sanders activists during the party convention.

Her opponent wont be clear until a Republican state convention Aug. 25, but the race figures to be one of the more expensive of the attorney general races this year.

The Democratic association has boosted its fundraising, taking in $2.4 million during the first three months of the year. That still lags the Republican group, which brought in $4.5 million during the same period.

Republicans are mostly trying to keep the seats they already hold while vying to take control in Illinois and Connecticut after incumbent Democrats declined to run again.

The little-known GOP candidates are not expected to be a factor in Californias race, which nevertheless is contested. Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra, a Democrat, is a prolific filer of lawsuits against the Trump administration, but that hasnt prevented him from drawing a challenger from within his own party.

Everything you need to know about the California primary 

Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones has said he, too, would be eager to challenge Trump policies but says Becerra has been so focused on Trump that he is not doing enough on other issues, such as the opioid epidemic, gun violence and going after corporate polluters.

We can do more than just resist Trump, Jones said.

Becerra says Jones is being deceptive, pointing to his offices prosecutions for illegal gun possession, sex trafficking, embezzlement and other offenses.

The states unusual primary system, which allows the top two candidates to advance regardless of party affiliation, virtually assures that the two Democrats will continue their fight beyond Tuesdays primary.President Trump probably has authority under the Constitution to pardon himself, his lawyer Rudy Giuliani asserted Sunday, but he said the president will not do so as he fights a special counsel investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election and whether Trump obstructed justice.

Questions about the scope of Trumps executive powers have intensified with the disclosure this weekend of a 20-page letter that the presidents former legal team sent to special counsel Robert S. Mueller III in January.

The letter, which was first disclosed by the New York Times, claims the president has unchecked authority over federal investigations and could legally act to end them or even exercise his power to pardon.

Democrats have reacted with incredulity to the argument laid out in the letter, likening it to Richard Nixons infamous assertion in 1977  three years after he resigned the presidency to avoid impeachment  that if the president does something, it cant be illegal.

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The Presidents legal arguments would render whole sections of the Constitution moot, and allow a president to engage in any form of criminality and obstruct an investigation into his own wrongdoing, Rep. Adam B. Schiff, (D-Burbank) the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, tweeted on Saturday. Nobody is above the law. Not this President. Not any president.

Giuliani, who recently joined Trumps legal team as his personal attorney, defended the letter Sunday on ABCs This Week, including its suggestion that Trump has the power to self-pardon if he is in legal jeopardy.

He probably does, said Giuliani, who has taken a more combative public stance toward the Mueller investigation than Trumps former lawyers. He has no intention of pardoning himself, but that doesnt say he cant.

The former New York City mayor said the political ramifications of the president pardoning himself would be tough. He outlined the political danger later on NBCs Meet the Press, saying a presidential self-pardon would probably lead to immediate impeachment.

Courts have never ruled on the issue, but most legal scholars challenge the notion that presidential powers extend that far under Article II of the Constitution, which creates the executive branch.

The question took on added scrutiny last week when Trump ignored the traditional Justice Department review process and abruptly granted a full pardon to Dinesh DSouza, a provocative conservative author and filmmaker who pleaded guilty to violating federal campaign finance laws in 2014.

Trump said he also is considering pardoning TV personality and lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart, and pardoning or commuting the sentence of the former governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich. Both were stars with Trump on NBCs The Apprentice franchise.

Stewart was convicted in an insider trading case in 2004. Blagojevich was convicted in 2011 of corruption.

Since the clemency would involve convictions for obstruction of justice, lying to federal investigators or corruption, critics saw Trumps moves as a signal to former aides facing jail time or potential prosecution.

Four former members of his campaign or administration have pleaded guilty so far but have not been sentenced. Trumps former campaign manager Paul Manafort has pleaded not guilty to nearly two dozen charges and is scheduled to go on trial next month in northern Virginia.

Giulianis comments came against a backdrop of intensifying efforts by the president and his aides to discredit the Mueller team and the role of federal law enforcement in the Russia investigation.

On Saturday, Trump took to Twitter to dismiss the Mueller probe as a scam investigation and again denied any collusion with Russia by his campaign. When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country, he tweeted.

On Sunday, he distanced himself from Manafort, a veteran Republican operative who led Trumps campaign during a crucial period in mid-2016, including at the Republican National Convention where Trump was formally nominated. Manafort came into the campaign very late and was with us for a short period of time, Trump tweeted.

In his talk show appearances, Giuliani repeated his assertion that the presidents lawyers would wage a court fight rather than obey a subpoena to force Trump to testify to a grand jury in the Mueller probe. A court battle almost certainly would last months, extending through the November elections, and could end up at the Supreme Court.

Trump may agree to a voluntary interview, but only under agreed-upon terms, the presidents lawyer said.

I mean, were leaning toward not, Giuliani said. But look, if they can convince us that it will be brief, it would be to the point, there were five or six points they have to clarify, and with that, we can get this  this long nightmare for the  for the American public over.

Giuliani also argued that if Trump sits down with Muellers team, any inconsistencies with his previous statements or the record would result from innocent confusion, not malfeasance.

This is the reason you dont let the president testify, Giuliani said. Our recollection keeps changing, or were not even asked a question, and somebody makes an assumption.

Even so, he said Trump wants to tell his side of the story. The president wants to testify, he said. He believes hes innocent. I believe hes innocent.

Rep. Will Hurd (R-Texas), a member of the House Intelligence Committee, which has confirmed Russian interference in the campaign, urged Trump on CBS Face the Nation not to try to block the Mueller investigation.

If youre innocent, act like youre innocent, Hurd said. Bob Mueller should be allowed to continue his investigation and turn over any stone and pursue any lead.

laura.king@latimes.com

@laurakingLATThere are a lot of factors that make Californias Tuesday primary a potential font of surprises, not least the states unique primary system, in which the top two vote-getters advance to the November runoff regardless of party.

Here are some of the crazy possibilities.

Rohrabacher doesnt get through the primary

While its more likely that Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Costa Mesa) and another Republican will make it onto the November ballot, its possible that the Orange County representative has grown so controversial, hell lose outright.

Several well-financed Democrats are running against him, the district is trending Democratic and prominent Republican Scott Baughs entrance means theres a strong opponent from his own party. r.

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Rohrabacher, long friendly to Russia, also keeps popping up on the fringes of the ongoing investigations into the countrys interference in the 2016 presidential election.

No Republicans get on the November ballot in the 49th District

With eight Republicans and four Democrats on the ballot, the 49th Congressional District is where Republicans have the biggest risk of not making it through to November.

After squeaking out a win in 2016, Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Vista) was quickly named the most vulnerable incumbent and drew a slew of wealthy Democratic opponents.

When he announced in January that he wouldnt seek another term, a bunch of Republicans jumped in, including the prominent chairwoman of the state Board of Equalization, Diane Harkey, and state Assemblyman Rocky Chavez.

Neither party has rallied around a candidate, and registered voters are pretty evenly split among Democrats, Republicans and no-party preference.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (Tom Williams / CQ Roll Call )

A neo-Nazi makes it into the Senate race

U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein is widely expected to face fellow Democratic state Sen. Kevin de Leon this fall, but theres a tiny chance that anti-Semitic GOP Senate candidate Patrick Little could make it into the top-two runoff.

An April SurveyUSA poll found that 18% of California voters support Little, compared with 8% backing De Leon. No other poll has found similar results about the obscure candidate, but it spurred news coverage of Little, condemnation from the state Republican Party and prompted a white supremacy group to run robocalls on Littles behalf that attacked Feinstein for being Jewish.

No other Republican candidates have garnered as much free attention, and with 32 names on the ballot, there is a chance some voters will back him because they recognize Littles name.

Lei Linh-Pham drops off her mail-in ballot at the Sacramento County Registrar of Voters office last Wednesday. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press )

Despite talk of Democratic enthusiasm, few actually vote

Democrats are counting on a wave of enthusiasm as they try to retake control of the House.

But turnout is historically much lower in non-presidential years, and Californias large Latino population also has not voted in high numbers.

California has nearly 20 million registered voters, but if historic turnout rates hold, as many as two-thirds of those people will not cast a ballot and those who do are more likely to be Republican.

Nonetheless, theres been a surge of Democratic voters in the 13 states that have held primaries already, and Democrats hope that is a harbinger of what we could see in California on Tuesday.

Gubernatorial candidate John Chiang (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times )

John Chiang or Travis Allen make it into the top two in the governors race

Democratic Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom has been the front-runner in polls and fundraising since he entered the race for governor in 2015, leaving the fight mostly over who else will appear on the November ballot. Thats largely expected to be either Democratic former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa or Republican businessman John Cox.

But theres a chance the two men who frequently land at fourth and fifth in the polls could sneak through.

While President Trump endorsed Cox, Republican Assemblyman Travis Allen has a lot of conservative grass-roots support, and he was able to keep the state Republican Party from endorsing Cox. Allen helped start an effort to repeal the increases in the states gas tax and vehicle fees approved by the Legislature last year.

State Treasurer John Chiang similarly hasnt gotten much attention in the polls but has a dedicated base. Chiang was previously state controller, when he made headlines for refusing to pay state lawmakers when they failed to pass a balanced budget on time in 2011.

A lawmaker who resigned after being accused of sexual misconduct gets reelected

Former state Sen. Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia) has been campaigning for his old seat, and theres a chance voters will send him back to Sacramento.

Mendoza resigned earlier this year before his colleagues could hold a planned vote to expel him. His resignation followed an independent investigation that found he likely made unwanted advances toward six women during his tenure, including four staffers.

Several of his eight Democratic and two Republican opponents have raised substantially more money than Mendoza.

More stories from Sarah D. Wire 

sarah.wire@latimes.com

Follow @sarahdwire on Twitter

Read more about the 55 members of Californias delegationThere is one safe prediction about this election week in California: The time it takes to count ballots will be criticized and lampooned as government at its worst, an unacceptable anachronism in a world that now expects instant results.

All of this will become great fodder for social media and talk radio alike. And it will be largely inaccurate.

The truth is that the existing system is based on a number of revisions made over the past two decades  all good-intentioned as ensuring accuracy or expanding voter access, but adding time to the mechanics of conducting an election.

Size matters, too. Even if turnout is lackluster  using historical standards, perhaps as few as 7 million of the states 19 million voters  it will be more ballots than elections officials in 48 states had to count in the last presidential election.

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Californias electoral future is rooted in the old-fashioned absentee ballot 

And these are mostly votes cast on paper ballots. A number of California counties invested in touch-screen electronic machines in the early 2000s, but the state decertified the devices in 2007, citing security concerns. The resulting restrictions convinced most counties to limit their use.

Not that polling places matter as much as they used to. In 2002 only 26% of Californias ballots were cast absentee. By 2014, that had risen to 69%. Translation: Mistakes arent discovered until the envelope is opened at election headquarters in places like Norwalk for voters in Los Angeles County. State law is clear that a voters intent, even when a ballots stray marks or rips cause it to be rejected by a scanner, must be honored when possible.

Delays also happen when an absentee ballot envelope comes back without the voters signature. California voters have eight post-election days to show up in person at the county election office and fix it. Some counties are planning to extend the same right  following the recent ruling from a San Francisco judge  to a voters sloppy signature that cant be matched to the one on file.

Other state laws also add time to the counting of votes. One says that ballots arriving by this coming Friday  if postmarked by election day  must be counted. Another says voters can turn in their ballot anywhere in the state. Those ballots have to get shipped back to the persons county of residence, which will take time.

Voting by mail is poised to expand even further in 2020, when a new state law allows counties to close polling places and instead offer a limited number of vote centers.

Gov. Jerry Brown signs law allowing more absentee voting, fewer polling places 

Its important to remember, too, that elections officials are required to perform post-election audits of tabulation machines and of a portion of the ballots counted by those devices. So add in more time.

That brings us to voters. Whether its a desire to hear more from a candidate or just procrastination, many wait until the eleventh hour to turn in their ballots. As of Friday, only 16% of the 11.6 million ballots mailed to Californians had been returned. Even if voters had turned them in earlier  say back in early May, for example  state law limits how early officials can begin to count ballots.

Still, the work proceeds relatively fast. Data from the last two California primaries show that at least 70% of the votes were counted by the weekend after election day. Absent radical change or significantly more taxpayer money  and counties often have been shortchanged by state lawmakers  Californias elections system cant get much faster if its to produce accurate results. On election night and thereafter, patience is a virtue.

john.myers@latimes.com

Follow @johnmyers on Twitter, sign up for our daily Essential Politics newsletter and listen to the weekly California Politics PodcastStudents from the Burbank Unified School District said this week they want their peers and parents to know that those who are suffering from mental-health issues are not alone and help is available.

Despite the school year being over, the auditorium at the Burbank Adult School was packed with hundreds of parents and students attending a mental-health forum Thursday night.

Joining Supt. Matt Hill was a nine-person panel made up of school district officials, members of the nonprofit Family Service Agency of Burbank, the Burbank Police Department and students who either attend a school in the district or have recently graduated.

Panel members fielded numerous questions from the audience and answered as many as they could.

Hill told audience members that the district will be holding an open house at John Burroughs High Schools wellness center from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday if they have additional questions.

Ginny Goodwin  director of operations at Family Service Agency, who is in charge of the nonprofits school-based counseling programs  outlined the services her organization offers to students, which include wellness centers at both Burbank and John Burroughs high schools.

Although the high schools are out of session, Goodwin said the wellness centers at both schools will be open until 2 p.m. during the summer.

Burbank Police Officer Geoffrey Snowden talked about the Burbank Mental Health Evaluation Team, a program in which police can assess whether a student who has mental-health issues is a threat to others or themselves, and if the child needs medical attention.

Snowden said the programs goal is to help the student recover and not just to send them to a hospital for treatment. In more serious cases, Snowden said he or his colleague will make follow-up calls or stops with the child and their parents to see that the student is receiving the help they need.

Though the adults on the panel were able to refer various programs and services students and families can use, many in the audience were more curious to hear from recent Burbank High graduate Meera Varma and incoming John Burroughs seniors Nicole Rojas and Valeria Palma.

Hill said each of the students emailed him when they found out the school district was hosting a forum on mental health and said they wanted to share what theyve gone through and what they hope to do for their peers.

Varma, who had been dealing with mental-health issues for several years, said she was judged by her friends when she first started going to the wellness center at Burbank High during her freshman year.

However, she said taking care of her mental health was more important than caring about what anybody else thought.

Varma added additional forums like the one held on Thursday are needed to break down the stigma of mental health so fewer students are afraid to ask for help.

There are still some things that need to be done  maybe more education throughout the student body about what mental health is, because the more students that are receiving help, the better it will be overall, Varma said.

Mental health is just such an important topic in society, especially now. More students taking initiative for their mental health is very important in decreasing the stigma, she said.

Rojas and Palma have been working with several other peers at Burroughs High to create a student coalition called C.A.R.E., in which students can talk with one another about mental health programs provided by the school district and relay feedback to school officials about how to make those programs better.

Rojas said the group will be working with the Family Service Agency to teach students how to navigate through social media, which she said can be a negative space for students.

We hope to connect the students to the district, to the wellness center and to everything to be able to facilitate and be a part of bringing in more student input, Palma said. Hopefully, it can be something that can be tweaked and used at all the other schools in the district.

When asked about what parents should do if their child develops a mental-health issue, Varma, who will be going to UCLA in the fall, said its OK for a parent to not fully understand what their child is going through.

She added parents arent the only ones who can offer advice. Close friends and teachers can also help.

However, she said parents and their children need to develop trust between each other, and sometimes the best thing for a parent to do is just be there for their child.

Sometimes, its not always about finding the solution to a problem, Varma said. Its just about being there for your kid. Whether its just sitting next to them and putting an arm around their shoulder, saying, I love you or taking them out to dinner. You dont always have to find the solution to a problem. Sometimes you just need to take a step back and say You know what? My kid really needs me to just cuddle them and nurture them right now.

anthonyclark.carpio@latimes.com

Twitter: @acocarpioA brush fire that temporarily displaced thousands of Laguna Beach and Aliso Viejo residents over the weekend has burned 175 acres and was 65% contained as of Tuesday morning, fire officials said.

All Laguna Beach residents who were evacuated Saturday because of the blaze were permitted to return to their homes Sunday evening. Initially, 1,500 residents were evacuated from the Top of the World and Old Top of the World neighborhoods.

The Aliso fire, which broke out at about 1:15 p.m. Saturday below Top of the World and behind Soka University in Aliso Viejo, also forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 homes in Aliso Viejo. However, that order was lifted at 9 p.m. Saturday after authorities determined the fire was no longer a threat to those homes.

At one point Saturday, the fire was reported to have burned 250 acres, but that was downgraded to 120 at around 8:40 p.m. after an aerial survey of the burn area gave firefighters a more accurate count, officials said. The figure was increased to 200 in an Orange County Fire Authority tweet at 12:05 a.m. Sunday, but it changed again to 150 later Sunday morning. By late Monday, the fire had burned 175 acres.

Fire officials upgraded the containment figure to 65% late Monday from 55% earlier in the day and 40% on Sunday night.

The cause of the fire is unclear.

Aliso Fire: Extreme Fire behavior with erratic canyon winds. pic.twitter.com/GZqx4XCxIY  OCFA PIO (@OCFA_PIO) June 2, 2018

As firefighting conditions improved during the weekend, Laguna Beach residents on the west side of Alta Laguna Boulevard were permitted to return to their homes Sunday morning. The rest of the evacuation order was lifted at 6 p.m., officials said.

The Laguna Beach Community & Susi Q Center was established as an evacuation shelter.

Fire Authority Capt. Tony Bommarito said Sundays weather conditions were favorable for firefighters.

Things are looking good, he said. Whenever we dont have any wind, its going to be in our favor. We try to get as much done as we can during those times.

He said fire crews got a break Saturday night as erratic winds that had whipped flames through thick brush that hadnt burned in more than 100 years died down. Bommarito said firefighters used that to their advantage overnight as hand crews cut about a mile of fire line in an effort to contain the blaze.

Officials said 525 firefighters from several agencies, along with two helicopters, are working to combat the fire.

Three firefighters have suffered non-life-threatening injuries, authorities said. The OCFA said one of them was rescued by helicopter Sunday.

No structural damage has been reported, officials said.

The fire caused Top of the World Elementary School to be closed Monday, and Costa Mesa High Schools prom scheduled for Saturday night at Soka University was postponed.

The elementary school is expected to reopen Tuesday. Costa Mesa Highs prom has been rescheduled for Saturday at Soka.

Investigators asked that anyone with information about the cause of the fire call (800) 222-TIPS (8477).

KTLA and the Los Angeles Times contributed to this report.

hannah.fry@latimes.com

Twitter: @HannahFryTCN

UPDATES:

8 a.m. June 5: This article was updated with the fire at 175 acres and 65% contained.

2:30 p.m. June 4: This article was updated with new schedule information for Top of the World Elementary School and Costa Mesa High Schools prom .

7:35 a.m. June 4: This article was updated with the fire at 55% containment.

7:25 a.m. June 4: This article was updated with Top of the World Elementary School being closed Monday.

7:15 a.m. June 4: This article was updated with a new number of firefighters injured and the phone number for tips on the cause of the fire.

6:45 p.m. June 3: This article was updated with the rest of the Laguna Beach evacuation orders being lifted, plus additional details and comments.

1:05 p.m. June 3: This article was updated with a new number of residents still under evacuation orders.

10:10 a.m. June 3: This article was updated throughout.

This article was originally published at 9:25 a.m. June 3.JOSHUA TREE

Presentation

REI experts will share tips for discovering the best spots for recreation at Joshua Tree National Park as well as firsthand knowledge you will need to enjoy your time on the trails.

When, where: 7 p.m. June 4 at the REI store in Huntington Beach, 7777 Edinger Ave.

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Admission, info: Free. (714) 379-1938

EUROPE

Presentation

Join Distant Lands travel agent for info on how to see Europe by rail. Learn how train travel works, the dos and donts of train etiquette, how to choose the right rail pass (or no pass at all) and more.

When, where: 7:30 p.m. June 4 at Distant Lands, 20 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.

Admission, info: Free. RSVP to (626) 449-3220.

MT. WHITNEY

Workshop

Get hints, tips and inspiration for successfully summiting the highest mountain in the contiguous U.S. in a single day.

When, where: 6:30 p.m. June 8 at the Adventure 16 store, 11161 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles

Admission, info: Free. (310) 473-4574.

Please email announcements at least three weeks before the event to travel@latimes.com.Only a rookie flier makes airline booking mistakes, right?

Wrong. It can happen to anyone, even a pro.

Last month, five colleagues heading to a conference in Europe were set to fly to Vienna using different routes because we were from different places. We were to spend a few days sightseeing there before traveling to the conference destination.

Were experienced travelers  or at least we should be. Were travel writers. We fly often.

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Yet problems befell each of us, causing delays that led to missed sightseeing and unanticipated expenses. Heres what we learned from our travails, starting with my misadventure.

Case of the missing case

When I started researching flights to Vienna in November for me and my husband, airfares were high, starting about $1,300 round trip for travel in early May. Rates werent budging.

I eventually discovered a round-trip ticket from LAX to London for $627. A separate ticket, round trip from London to Vienna, was available for less than $200.

The flights were in the same airline alliance, which I thought was a key safety net. But because I had made two separate ticket purchases, at check-in I was informed that my bag could not be checked through to Vienna. I would need to claim my bag at Heathrow and re-check it for the flight to Vienna.

The flight to Heathrow landed on time, and the layover was more than four hours, ample time for the bag to be transferred. But on arrival in Vienna, it never showed up. (The husbands rolled out promptly.) Instead, my bag decided to sightsee in London without me.

And heres the thing that really stung: The same thing happened last year on a flight to Germany that went through Heathrow on the same airline.

I filed a missing luggage claim and headed to the hotel. By late the next morning, the airlines website told me that the luggage had been located and was in transit, but nothing more.

The bag was delivered to my Vienna hotel 17 hours after my original flight landed. By then I had been wearing the same clothes for more than 48 hours. As I thought through the chain of events, I realized I was not blameless.

Lessons learned

I had bought this luggage because it fits in a typical overhead bin, so there was no reason for me to check my bag on the outbound trip.

Furthermore, if I really needed to check it on the outbound flight, why didnt I have a small carry-on with a change of clothes, toiletries, prescription medicine and a spare set of contact lenses? Last-minute packing led to stupid oversights on my part.

It took 4 hours from the time the bag landed at the Vienna airport until it arrived at my hotel. I could have gone to the airport and picked it up  it was an easy 20-minute train ride  and I would have had the bag sooner.

Case of the broken connection

Two of my associates were headed to Vienna from Denver and had saved money by booking their travel on two different carriers.

Their 5:40 p.m. flight from Denver to London was delayed because of a mechanical problem, so they knew they wouldnt make their flight to Vienna. They contacted the connecting carrier to change their ticket for a later departure from London.

Alas, their London-Vienna carrier would not bend ticketing rules and imposed a $143 change fee for a later departure.

Their flight from Denver was repeatedly delayed, then canceled. The pair was then booked on a new flight to London, departing (and arriving) 24 hours after their original plans. This necessitated another call to the connecting airline and another change fee.

They each spent $364 on change fees. They also lost the money spent on their first nights accommodation in Vienna and, more important, their first of less than two days planned for touring the city.

Lessons learned

The initial Denver carrier provided a room at an airport hotel and, with some prodding, a voucher valid for $350 for future travel. That was more than it was required to do. That compensated for out-of-pocket expenses, but it did not replace a day touring Vienna.

The transatlantic carrier was responsible only for getting the pair to London. If they had purchased a through-fare to Vienna, there would have been no cost to change the connecting flight.

They might even have been routed through another European hub that would have them landing in Vienna not much later than originally planned.

When their flight to London was delayed, they could have looked for alternative flights to London or Vienna and asked the carrier to intervene with the second airline, which happened to be a code-share partner.

When traveling on the last (or only) flight of the day on a long-haul journey, even small delays can force an unplanned overnight and delay the start of a vacation.

As soon as delays are announced  even short ones  start researching options.

Case of the churlish change fee

The trip for associate No. 3 started in Frankfurt, Germany. She had purchased a one-way ticket to Vienna, selecting the least expensive ($145) non-refundable fare on a European-based international carrier.

She arrived at the Frankfurt airport at 12:30 p.m., in plenty of time for a flight departing at 2:50 p.m.

After check-in, she proceeded to her gate and found a seat next to an outlet where she could charge her laptop.

At some point, a gate change announcement was made but she didnt hear it. When she discovered that the gate had changed, she ran to the new one, arriving 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

The airplane doors were closed, and she was not allowed to board.

The gate agent sent her to the airlines customer service desk. The service rep told her that because she had purchased the lowest nonrefundable fare, the ticket no longer had value and she would have to purchase another.

She paid $395 for her 75-minute substitute flight.

Lessons learned

There is something to be said about not getting too wrapped up in your work. Clearly, the error was hers.

Also, never assume the option in front of you is the only one. Taking a moment to research other flights may have yielded a less expensive flight on another airline.

Remember that the least expensive fares usually have prohibitive restrictions or impose excessive fees for changes or cancellations. When she was researching her flights, she ignored a $210 fare that allowed changes but was $65 more. That up-charge would have been a lot less than the $540 (total) she wound up paying for the journey.

Im now going to set my phone alarm to alert me to check my surroundings. This way, if Ive missed a gate change announcement, Ill know in time to relocate. And if boarding hasnt started, hinting at a potential flight delay, I can start looking for other flights.

travel@latimes.com

@latimestravelThe Credit Card Fee Game [May 20, Money Matters, by Catharine Hamm) made me think of two peeves of mine, one longstanding and one brand new:

 I go to Mexico several times a year. Even though Citigroup owns Banamex, I still get charged a hefty fee for getting pesos at a Banamex ATM using my Citibank ATM card. Grrr.

 My United Airlines MileagePlus Explorer Visa card has a hefty annual fee, but at least the 10,000 bonus miles I get for spending at least $25,000 per year almost completely pays for the annual fee.

However, the card company recently notified me that the 10,000 bonus miles benefit will be disappearing. Grrr.

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Even though I fly United frequently and use this card as my main one, I hate fees, and I may not keep it after this year.

Rodney Hoffman

Montecito Heights

A Real quick arrival

In re: Before You Drive Off... [May 20, On the Spot, by Catharine Hamm], I received my California Real ID in four days.

I took my test and new photo at the Department of Motor Vehicles at 10:30 a.m. on a Tuesday, and the license arrived in Saturdays 5 p.m. mail. This was at the beginning of April.

M.A. Steinberger

Tujunga

French strikes

I recently returned from Europe, where our trip was almost scuttled due to a rail strike in France. Fortunately, we found out in time to book a flight to our next destination.

This is the fifth time in 12 years that a French work stoppage has affected our travels  two involving trains and three Air France. We are not alone, if you listen to other travelers.

French labor laws and unions, or the lack thereof, expose the traveler to unpredictable changes that do not plague the remainder of the Western world. This appears to be a well-kept secret, but it is real.

Fortunately, we have seen enough of France (which we like); future travels will be elsewhere. The travel world should expose this problem.

Michael Miller

Los Angeles

SloCal in San Diego County

I enjoyed Blake Snows article A SloCal Road Trip Gives You a Geographic, Climatological Super Sampler (online, May 20), but felt the need to clarify one point. Snow writes, Unlike both Northern and Southern California, SloCal provides access to four of Californias most iconic geographies: coastline, mountain, valley and desert.

Southern California provides incredible opportunities to experience these four geographies. In San Diego County alone, you could visit the shores of La Jolla, the picturesque wine country of San Pasqual Valley, towering Palomar Mountain with its conifers, winter snowfall and a world-famous observatory, and wrap up your day among the cactus and spring wildflowers in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Catherine Jain

Carlsbad

travel@latimes.com

@latimestravelEleven people active in Allentown have been named to a team readying to compete for All-America City status later this month in Denver, Colorado.

The 109th National Civic League (NCL) Conference on Local Governance on June 21 honors 10 U.S. cities for leveraging civic engagement, collaboration, inclusiveness and innovation to successfully address local issues, according to the organization's website.

Allentown Mayor Ray O'Connell announced the team lineup last week in a news conference at council chambers.

The last time the city won the award was in 1975. The team, made up of city residents, nonprofit leaders, business representatives and elected officials, includes the following:

Allentown Council President Roger MacLean

Allentown Councilwoman and Allentown Promise Neighborhood Community Manager Cynthia Mota

Allentown Police Chief Tony Alsleben

Allentown Health Bureau Director Vicky Kistler

Ismael Arcelay, special assistant to the mayor

Allentown Recreation and Special Events Coordinator Christy Alvord

Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center and Executive Director Adrian Shanker

Allentown Vice President and Director of Project Design and Corporate Branding Jane Heft

Allentown School District Director of Equity Lucretia Brown

Lehigh-Carbon Community College Vice President of Academic Services and Student Development Thomas W. Meyer

Owner of LBJ Media and All-America City Youth Award Nominee Luis Bardales Jr.

The city was notified in late March it would be one of 20 finalist municipalities competing in the 2018 All-America City Awards. All teams are required to participate in presentations and workshops.

Allentown's team specifically plans to participate in a creative presentation before the All-America City jury, followed by a question and answer session. The team's application will highlight the city's "inclusive engagement and equitable opportunities" for all community members, demonstrating its many collaborative partnerships, the mayor said.

"We have assembled a very passionate group of diverse community members who will truly showcase Allentown's equitable opportunities, recent successes, and potential for the future," O'Connell added.

O'Connell also paid tribute to several area businesses and organizations sponsoring the effort. He said community members also can get involved by pormoting the city's participation in the finals as part of a social media contest sponsored by the NCL.

O'Connell said team members met and brainstormed the start of a social media campaign, with dry erase whiteboards that can be taken to different community groups to start posting photos on Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms to show support.

Vicky Kistler, who sits on the team, said the posters allow each group to write in their organization's name or any special message they want to send about Allentown. The hashtag, per the contest guidelines, is #AAC2018.

"We're excited to engage a variety of businesses, nonprofit groups and neighbors to join us in this campaign," she said.

What you can do:

Groups and organizations interested in supporting the All-America City competition can contact the city by emailing events@allentownpa.gov.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.A team of Lehigh University researchers are digging into public perceptions of law enforcement in the Lehigh Valley and looking into ways to reduce biases on all sides.

The research is still in its early stages with the team gathering data through surveys and focus groups with a wide swath of Lehigh Valley residents, including police officers, community groups, Lehigh students and folks who have served time in jail.

The idea for the project -- Democratic Policing: Bias Reduction and Police-Public Interactions -- sprung out of informal conversations about bias amongst Lehigh faculty in the psychology, criminal justice and political science departments.

"The real motivation here is to learn about those institutional factors that we can affect that will make policing safer for the police and the public," explained Holona Ochs, Lehigh associate professor and graduate director in the political science department, who has been studying policing since 2009.

Nationally, law enforcement has been put under a microscope in the wake of high-profile police shootings of black men, raising questions about bias and the militarization of police in the post 9/11 age.

And for officers the job is more complicated than ever as they navigate these waters while dealing with the opioid epidemic, the mentally ill and a push back to community policing strategies.

While the use of force by police in the Lehigh Valley is pretty rare, researchers think the region's unique geography and demographics may result in real life applications across the country.

The team wants to know how participants view their community's relationship with police and what they think an officer's job actually is. And they want to hear from officers about the challenges of modern policing.

"We're trying to understand where are people's perspectives aligned and where are they misaligned," said Dominic Packer, associate professor of psychology and associate dean of research and graduate programs in Lehigh's College of Arts and Sciences. "They are really exploratory focus groups."

Adjunct Lehigh professor and recently retired Bethlehem police Sgt. Wade Haubert thinks inherent bias is a fascinating research topic with real world applications.

"Start off acknowledging what we all know: every single person in this country has grown up in some environment where they ultimately have bias," Haubert said. "It doesn't mean that it is bad, that you are a bigot. Let's just all acknowledge, we have some stereotypes. Let's identify through a study why those things might occur and we can look at what we can do to potentially recognize that and factor that in as a conscious factor in how we make decisions."

Informal conversations about police tactics and procedures in the wake of high-profile police shootings started forming the questions that are now the basis of the research, Haubert said. His own concerns about the direction of policing attracted him to the project.

"I was very frustrated with the way the profession of policing has changed over the last 20 years," Haubert said. "...When I first got hired, community policing was a big thing and the Bethlehem Police Department was one of the poster children for good community policing."

This was lost nationally in the wake of 9/11.

"We lost our ability to put the citizens first and have the ability to communicate with them and understand that most people support us," Haubert said.

While much of the research on police bias occurs in major cities, like Philadelphia and Toronto, much of the nation's policing happens outside of urban areas in places with unique challenges.

"One of the great things about the Lehigh Valley for the study is that within a very small geographic area you have a huge diversity of different kinds of environments," Packer said.

This geographic diversity paired with the region's evolving population diversity make it a very interesting place to study policing. You can be in an urban environment in Bethlehem, drive two miles and find yourself in the rural countryside, Packer said.

"Different communities have different expectations of the police and relate to the police in different ways and it affects the complexity of policing and whether people think the police are doing a good job," Ochs said.

The Valley is going through a number of demographic changes that have the potential to increase community tensions, said Ochs, who is also interim associate dean of interdisciplinary programs for Lehigh. The population is aging while there's also an influx of younger people, many without children, and the region's ethnic make up is changing, she noted.

The economic landscape is vastly different as the Valley is reinventing itself and moving away from its industrial past.

"You have all of these people living in these different environments," Packer said. "The nature of the job is really different in all of these contexts. You can have officers in the same department that face different challenges."

As a commonwealth, Pennsylvania gives local control to police departments, which can be bad and good for a multitude of reasons, Haubert said.

"If we had the Lehigh Valley metro police department that covered the entire region, you could imagine what the borough of Coplay might want from their police officers might be different than what the city of Allentown might want," Haubert said.

But as the region changes demographically those differences could potentially be problematic if a "past practice of acceptable policing behavior is applied to a diverse community," Haubert said.

If a brown skinned family moves into a largely white and homogeneous borough, the police might be called as they are moving in, Haubert said. Or if you're driving a certain type of car while gawking at mansions in Upper Saucon Township you may get stopped.

"To me, those are the ugly types of things that are within and we need to be willing to acknowledge," Haubert said. "It is not saying that the police should not be able to do their job."

Researchers hope these focus groups can spur wider conversations among communities with the police, so residents can gain a better understanding of ins and outs of policing and how to communicate with police.

"The bigger goal is to bring different communities together with the police and talk about the challenges and complexities of policing and how different communities can better relate and interact using the police as intermediaries," Ochs said.

The team is still organizing focus groups -- researchers say they'll speak with anyone that wants to sit down with them -- and hopes to start analyzing data this fall and then building further community conversations off of that.

Parker is hopeful that the data gives rise to a whole new line of research in his lab where they can test things that might reduce conflict or bias.

"If we can build this research further we'd like to create Center of the Study of Democratic Policing -- that center would be an online forum and a public space where we would organize conversations about maintaining peaceful relations without the use of force," Ochs said.

If police departments are interested in specialized training or resources, the center could offer that as well, she said.

The research inspired three Lehigh students -- Kalyani Singh, Kristin Hernandez and Henry Fisher -- to create a short documentary film about the project called "Boundaries of Truth" with funding from a Mellon Digital Humanities Initiative grant.

"I was very interested and excited that I was in the room with all these professors from poli sci to sociology to criminology," Singh, who worked as a research assistant on the project, said. "All of them were coming together in this room with all of their different perspectives and they were all testing their knowledge."

Since the research is still underway, the film focuses on the power of putting together a team from a variety of backgrounds to try to solve a societal problem.

"That will foster better understanding and it will progress the goal of bridging those communities together," she said. "You need to have different perspectives. You can't get the whole story by looking at it through one lens."

Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.An Allentown man is accused of firing shots into the air while standing in a crowded Whitehall Township parking lot.

Police said Shawn Tomsic, 26, began shooting around 4:05 p.m. Saturday in the area of 900 Mickley Run. Officers dispatched to the scene found several people in the parking lot at the time.

Investigators found six spent 9mm shell casings in the parking lot and discovered a black semi-automatic Ruger handgun under the rear of a vehicle, according to police.

Witnesses reported Tomsic firing multiple shots into the air while people were in the area, authorities said. The handgun's serial number was discovered to have been altered, according to police, and a records check showed Pennsylvania State Police in Fern Ridge had listed the gun as stolen.

Tomsic was charged with receiving stolen property, altering marks of identification and recklessly endangering another person, authorities said. The Allentown Police Department and Pennsylvania State Police assisted the investigation.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.Six people with charges running the gamut from driving under the influence to simple assault to drug offenses were arrested this past week in Northampton and Lehigh counties.

Donald Voytko, 30, and Vincent Brown, 33, no addresses provided, were picked up last week by the Northampton County Sheriff Department's Criminal Warrant Unit.

Voytko was apprehended without incident in the 700 block of North Quebec Street in Allentown, authorities said. He was wanted by Northampton County Adult Probation for violating parole conditions on two separate DUI cases. Voytko was taken to Northampton County Prison, where he is awaiting disposition on the cases.

Brown was apprehended without incident in the 1300 block of Washington Street in Easton, authorities said. He was wanted by the Northampton County Sheriff Department for failing to appear for criminal court on an original simple assault charge, authorities said. Brown was taken to Northampton County Prison, where he is awaiting disposition on the cases.

The United States Marshals Violent Fugitive Task Force also took into custody Constantine Glicas, 38; John Homay, 38; Kyrsten Miller, 21; and Taylor Logan, 20; no addressed provided.

Glicas was apprehended without incident in the 500 block of Reynolds Street in Easton, authorities said. He was wanted by state parole for violating supervision conditions. His original charges were two separate felony cases involving possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. He was taken to Northampton County Prison and is awaiting transport to a state correctional facility.

Both Homay and Miller, who authorities said are in a dating relationship, were apprehended without incident in the 500 block of Reynolds Street in Easton.

Homay was wanted by Northampton County Adult Probation for violating supervision conditions. His original felony charges were for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.

Homay also was listed as a state Fugitive of the Week" on April 13 and was located by tipster information and leads, according to the U.S. Marshal's Service. Heroin and drug paraphernalia were recovered during his arrest, the marshal's service said. Homay was taken to Northampton County Prison and is awaiting disposition on his case.

Miller had two separate warrants after failing to appear at a district court hearing for a possession of drug paraphernalia charge and also failing to appear at a preliminary hearing for a possession of a controlled substance charge. Miller was taken to Northampton County Prison in lieu of $1,000 bail.

Logan was apprehended without incident in the 20 block of Lewis Street in Phillipsburg. Logan was wanted by the Northampton County Sheriff Department for failing to appear at a bail revocation hearing. His original charges were for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.

Logan was tracked from Easton to Phillipsburg, according to the U.S. Marshal's Service. He was taken to Warren County Prison, awaiting extradition back to Pennsylvania.

The United States Marshals Violent Fugitive Task Force is comprised of members of the Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania State Probation and Parole Agents and the Northampton County Sheriff Department's Criminal Warrant Unit.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.The clock is ticking down on redistricting reform in Pennsylvania, a long-delayed effort to scrap the state's uber-partisan redrawing of congressional districts. The state House of Representatives and Senate have a little more than a month to agree on a bill outlining a constitution amendment -- a redundant, two-step legislative process that will require statewide voter approval, hopefully in time for the redrawing of districts after the 2020 census.

The issue is far from resolved in Harrisburg, even though solid majorities of Pennsylvanians tell pollsters they want to move their state out of the golden age of gerrymandering. That's the term for drawing district boundaries to maintain a partisan advantage, something Republican legislative majorities and former Gov. Tom Corbett did with alarming dexterity in 2011.

Earlier this year the Democratic-led state Supreme Court threw out the gerrymandered map and drew a new one, which is in effect for this year's congressional elections. That's another reason we need reform. While the court provided a welcome shake-up, judges shouldn't be drawing lines on a regular basis, either.

Replacing top-down, majority-dictated redistricting with a citizens commission has gained traction. State Rep. Steve Samuelson, a Bethlehem Democrat, has been the prime mover on this, but his bill has been thwarted twice by the Republican chairman of the House State Government Committee, Daryl Metcalfe -- despite bipartisan support for the bill among House members.

In the Senate, Democrat Lisa Boscola of Bethlehem and Republican Mario Scavello of Monroe County have been leading the charge on a reform bill. Last month a senate committee, at the behest of Chairman Mike Folmer, R-Lebanon, passed an amended version -- which, while giving legislative leaders and the governor the power to the select the citizens on a redistricting committee, would still be a marked improvement over the current system. The citizens panel would be made up of four Democrats, four Republicans and three independents. It also proposes safeguards against the worst type of county- and community-mangling gerrymandering.

House Democrats haven't given up on their bill, which would select citizens for a redistricting panel in a more accessible, populist way, modeling it on reforms in other states. It's still the preferable option, but this being Pennsylvania ...

Procedural questions could still shackle a two-house consensus, even with Gov. Tom Wolf pledging to sign reform legislation. The Senate bill must be vetted and simplified so both houses can agree, but at least it provides a way forward. It's important, too, that House leaders steer any Senate-approved bill away from Metcalfe's committee, where it would face certain death. All this has to be completed by early July, because a constitutional amendment must be passed by two consecutive legislatures in identical form. Then it heads to the voters as a statewide ballot question.

Also looming: The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling this month on gerrymandering appeals from several states, which could change the landscape. That shouldn't dissuade Pennsylvania lawmakers from forging ahead on a better system.

Voters are sitting up, listening and watching on the issue of gerrymandering. They know how it distorts and dilutes their ballot power, and they're going to hold lawmakers responsible for a system corrupted by partisan majorities -- both Republicans and Democrats, over the years -- for too long.Warren County will soon have one less lake.

Starting Monday, the state environmental department is scheduled to begin drawing water from Columbia Lake in Knowlton Township, dropping the level about a foot a day until it can remove structures including the dam that formed the lake on the Paulins Kill.

Destruction of the 18-foot high, 330-foot long Columbia Lake Dam will allow shad and eels to move more freely toward spawning grounds, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, which has owned and managed the dam within the 1,098-acre Columbia Wildlife Management Area since 1955.

The dam is about a quarter-mile up the Paulins Kill from the confluence with the Delaware River. The lake itself covers 43 acres.

The dam was built in 1909 by the Warren County Power Co. to harvest ice and supply energy, according to the DEP and The Nature Conservancy, which is leading the project as part of a larger plan to improve the Paulins Kill watershed. By slowing the water's flow, the dam creates warm ponds where sediment fills in, detracting from the overall health of the waterway, the conservancy says.

The area around the lake will be closed to the public during the work. Fish and mussels will be removed during the drawdown and relocated to the Delaware River, the DEP said in an email announcement.

(MORE INFO: A state summary of the dam removal project)

Once the lake is drained, the removal of a smaller "remnant dam" downstream from the main dam is expected to commence about June 18. After that, an old powerhouse will be demolished, followed by the Columbia Lake Dam itself. In the fall, modifications to an I-80 culvert may be needed to allow shad and other fish to pass.

Officials in Knowlton Township have had a number of complaints with the DEP over the last several years, and this project is no exception. In 2016, the township's elected leaders criticized the dam-removal plan, saying the lake is an attraction for outdoor activities and was used by firefighters as an emergency water source.

Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @type2supernovak and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.AMHERST - Jeanne Birdsall, the New York Times best-selling author of the popular "Penderwick" novels who lives in Northampton, is among the panelists for "Why We Write Middle Grade" June 9 at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art.

The 1 p.m. discussion on the challenges and rewards of writing for readers between the ages of 8 and 12 is free with museum admission.

Other participants include three other area writers - Cammie McGovern, whose books feature young people with a variety of disabilities; Catherine Newman, whose novel "One Mixed-Up Night" features two youngsters who run away to an IKEA store for an overnight; and Lisa Yee, whose novels for middle school readers include the "DC Super Hero Girls."

Also, Liz Rosenberg, who has written a biography for young readers of the author of "Anne of Green Gables," is also scheduled to participate.

Birdsall, who grew up in the Philadelphia area, began writing in her 40s. Her Penderwick stories have collected many honors, including the National Book Award for Young People's Literature, and have been translated into 30 languages. According to her website, her idea of the original four Penderwick sisters was inspired by "Little Women."

McGovern is co-founder of Hadley-based Whole Children and the mother of an autistic son. She writes on her website about children with disabilities being under-represented in popular culture and that her hope in representing them in her stories is for readers to see "how much they have in common" with them.

Her "Chester and Gus" is described as a "humorous middle grade novel about the remarkable bond that forms between an aspiring service dog and an autistic boy in need of a friend."

Newman has credited her own children with inspiring her as a writer, and told an interviewer asking her about "One Mixed-Up Night" that they "have always been obsessed" with IKEA.

Yee, a Los Angeles native, has written more than 18 novels. Her first, "Millicent Min, Girl Genius," debuted in 2003. Her projects have including writing the American Girl, Girl of the Year 2016 books.

Rosenberg's "House of Dreams: The Life of L.M. Montgomery," illustrated by Julie Morstad and being released in June, is described as the first biography of Montgomery for younger readers.

A professor of English at the State University of New York at Binghampton, Rosenberg has called Montgomery one of her favorite authors and has described the "Anne of Green Gables" author as someone who "raised herself up from a background of abandonment and loneliness"Whistleblower or traitor, leaker or public hero?

Former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden blew the lid off U.S. government surveillance methods five years ago, but intelligence chiefs complain that revelations from the trove of classified documents he disclosed are still trickling out.

That includes recent reporting on a mass surveillance program run by close U.S. ally Japan, and on how the NSA targeted bitcoin users to gather intelligence to counterterrorism, narcotics and money laundering -- both stories published by The Intercept, an investigative publication with access to Snowden documents.

The top U.S. counterintelligence official said journalists have publicly released only about 1 percent taken by the 34-year-old American, now living in exile in Russia, "so we don't see this issue ending anytime soon."

"This past year, we had more international, Snowden-related documents and breaches than ever," Bill Evanina, who directs the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, said at a recent conference. "Since 2013, when Snowden left, there have been thousands of articles around the world with really sensitive stuff that's been leaked."

On June 5, 2013, The Guardian in Britain published the first story based on Snowden's disclosures. It revealed that a secret court order was allowing the U.S. government to get Verizon to share the phone records of millions of Americans. Later stories, including those in The Washington Post, disclosed other snooping and how U.S. and British spy agencies had accessed information from cables carrying the world's telephone and internet traffic.

Snowden's defenders maintain that the U.S. government has for years exaggerated the damage his disclosures caused. Glenn Greenwald, a former journalist at The Guardian, said there are "thousands upon thousands of documents" that journalists have chosen not to publish because they would harm peoples' reputation or privacy rights or because it would expose "legitimate surveillance programs."

"It's been almost five years since newspapers around the world began reporting on the Snowden archive and the NSA has offered all kinds of shrill and reckless rhetoric about the 'damage' it has caused, but never any evidence of a single case of a life being endangered let alone harmed," Greenwald said.

U.S. intelligence officials say they are still counting the cost of his disclosures that went beyond actual intelligence collected to how it was collected. Evanina said intelligence agencies are finishing their seventh, classified assessment of the damage.

Joel Melstad, a spokesman for the counterintelligence center, said five U.S. intelligence agencies contributed to the latest damage assessment, which itself is highly classified. Melstad said damage has been observed or verified in five categories of information the U.S. government keeps classified to protect national security.

According to Melstad, Snowden-disclosed documents have put U.S. personnel or facilities at risk around the world, damaged intelligence collection efforts, exposed tools used to amass intelligence, destabilized U.S. partnerships abroad, and exposed U.S. intelligence operations, capabilities and priorities.

"With each additional disclosure, the damage is compounded -- providing more detail to what our adversaries have already learned," Melstad said.

Steven Aftergood, a declassification expert at the Federation of American Scientists, said he thinks intelligence agencies are continuing to do Snowden damage assessments because the disclosures' relevance to foreign targets might take time to recognize and understand. He said the way that intelligence targets adapt based on information revealed and the impact on how the U.S. collects intelligence could continue for years. But he said that any damage that Snowden caused to U.S. intelligence partners abroad would have been felt immediately after the disclosures began in 2013.

Moscow has resisted U.S. pressure to extradite Snowden, who faces U.S. charges that could land him in prison for up to 30 years. From exile, Snowden often does online public speaking and has been active in developing tools that reporters can use, especially in authoritarian countries, to detect whether they are under surveillance.

Snowden supporters say the government is exaggerating when it claims he took more than 1 million documents and far fewer have actually been disclosed.

"I think the number of NSA documents that have been published is in the hundreds and not the thousands," said Snowden's lawyer, Ben Wizner. He said the government has never produced any public evidence that the released materials have cause "genuine harm" to U.S. national security.

"The mainstream view among intelligence professionals is that every day and every year that has gone by has lessened the value and importance of the Snowden archives," Wizner said. "The idea that information that was current in 2013 -- and a lot of it was much older than that -- might still alert somebody to anything in 2018 seems like a stretch."

Greenwald said the journalists were handed some 9,000 to 10,000 secret documents under the condition that they avoid disclosing any information that could harm innocent people, and that they give the NSA a chance to argue against the release of certain classified materials.

"We've honored his request with each document we've released," Greenwald said. "In most cases, we've rejected the NSA's arguments as unsubstantiated, but always gave them the opportunity for input, and will continue to do so."

He said that in 2016, The Intercept announced a program to disclose Snowden documents in bulk and open the collection to journalists and other experts around the world. Greenwald said that since then, hundreds of documents have been disclosed at a time after careful reviews.Democratic activists opted to endorse newcomer Josh Zakim over longtime incumbent Bill Galvin for the job of secretary of state.

Galvin, first elected to the job in 1994, left the DCU Center before the results were officially announced.

The secretary of state, who is elected statewide, oversees elections, securities, public records and the state archives.

At the 2018 Democratic Convention in Worcester, party activists voted to hand the party endorsement to Zakim, a Boston city councilor since 2014. Zakim picked up 54.8 percent.

Zakim, 34, received support from Congressman Seth Moulton and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, who threw his delegates behind the councilor. Both Galvin and Zakim come from Boston: Galvin is from Brighton while Zakim, the son of the man the Zakim Bridge is named for, lives in Back Bay.

In his speech to delegates, Galvin, 67, touted his reforms of voting laws when he first became secretary of state.

"When I came to office there was not a central voter registry, there was no motor voter, there was no mail-in registration," Galvin said. "We created that in Massachusetts and we set a standard for the nation."

Galvin lashed Zakim later in the day. "[This race] represents someone who knows what they're doing and someone who talks about it and doesn't know what they're doing," Galvin said, according to POLITICO Massachusetts.

"I've kept this as positive as we can, talking about what we want in the secretary's office, talking about changes we want to make," Zakim told reporters in response. "If Secretary Galvin wants to make this about personal attacks, I think that's unfortunate but I look forward to continuing talking directly to the voters as we did here today and as we will in the next three months before the Sept. 4 primary."

In his own speech to delegates, Zakim said he would seek to make it easier to register to vote.

"And that's what's both invigorating and tragic: there are so many simple, common-sense steps we can and should be taking to lead on this issue right now," he said. "In fact, every single one of these shortcomings could have and should have been fixed years ago. Maybe even decades ago. That's why we need to move forward now."

Both Democrats qualified for the Sept. 4 primary. The winner will face Republican Anthony Amore, the security chief of the Gardner Museum.

Amore hit both Democrats in a statement after the convention, saying they were pandering to the party's liberal base.

"You won't hear either candidate talking about their plans to effectively manage and modernize the Secretary of State's Office," Amore said. "They don't talk about it because it takes a lot more effort than formulating a progressive soundbite."

Material from State House News Service was used in this report.Jay Gonzalez, a former aide to ex-Gov. Deval Patrick, won the support of most delegates at the 2018 Massachusetts Democratic Convention as the party seeks to re-take the governor's office from Republican Charlie Baker.

Bob Massie, an environmental activist, picked up enough support to qualify for the ballot.

The Democratic primary is Tuesday, Sept. 4, and the winner is expected to face off against Baker, who faces his own primary challenge in controversial pastor Scott Lively.

Quentin Palfrey, a former Obama administration official, and comedian Jimmy Tingle, two candidates running for lieutenant governor, also qualified for the Sept. 4 ballot.

Both Gonzalez and Massie took swipes at Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito during the convention, saying the Republican administration should be taking a stronger stance against President Donald Trump.

Gonzalez, who received 70 percent of delegates' support, charged that Baker "hides behind the chaos that Trump creates" while failing to fix state government.

"Not being crazy is not good enough," Gonzalez said, while Massie hit Baker for not appearing at marches opposing Trump.

A moderate Republican, Baker maintains high approval ratings as he seeks a second term, touting a solid working relationship with a state Legislature dominated by Democrats.

Days before party activists headed to Worcester for the state convention, Baker was surrounded by smiling Democrats as he signed a $1.8 billion borrowing bill focused on modernizing public housing and expanding affordable housing.

After the Saturday afternoon vote, Gonzalez blasted Baker for a "cautious" approach in taking positions on hot topics. Gonzalez also voiced support for raising taxes.

"It' s not taking a position if you have to, not doing anything if you don't have to, and that's going to end," Gonzalez said. "And when I'm governor, people are going to know where I stand, and yes, if we need additional revenue to do some of things we need to do, so that Massachusetts isn't falling behind, and we lift regular people up in this state then we're going to do it."

The chair of the Massachusetts GOP, in a statement during the convention, pointed to recent scandals among Democratic leaders, including former Senate President Stan Rosenberg stepping down after his husband Bryon Hefner allegedly sexually assaulted several victims and meddled in Senate business, and former Sen. Brian Joyce, who is facing a corruption trial.

"Democrats are in chaos, and they're proving to the public that they cannot be trusted to keep their own house in order, let alone manage more of our tax dollars," Kristen Hughes, the MassGOP chair, said.

"From a slew of corruption reports, to the fact that the party's candidates for governor have lost touch with reality when it comes to their outlandish new spending proposals, it's not surprising that voters have lost faith in the Democrats," she added.

The headline in this post has been corrected to reflect that Gonzalez picked up the endorsement of party activists, not the nomination.A 62-year-old Massachusetts man has died after falling off a cliff in the coastal community of Harpswell, Maine.

On Friday, John Bernardi of Sherborn slipped off a ledge, fell 25 feet, hit his head on a rock, and landed in the water, reports the Portland Press Herald.

Bernardi was visiting friends at the time. They witnessed the fall and provided emergency first aid and CPR.

Cundy's Harbor rescue transported Bernardi to Maine Medical Center in Portland, where he was treated, but later died of his injuries.

The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office said the incident "appears to be a tragic accident."SPRINGFIELD - It is not uncommon for Mercy Medical Center's Dr. Timothy Johnson to treat someone under 50 for colorectal cancer.

He welcomes the American Cancer's Society's new recommendation that screening for colorectal cancer begin at an earlier age for those at average risk.

"I believe that the change in age to start screening from age 50 to 45 is a good idea and will diagnose more colon cancers for this age group at an early stage," said Johnson who specializes in gastrointestinal cancers with Pioneer Valley Oncology and Hematology at Mercy's Sister Caritas Cancer Center.

"We are definitely seeing a trend with more patients younger than age 50 presenting with colon cancer over the last several years. It is estimated that the number of patients younger than 50 who have been diagnosed with colon cancer in the U.S has doubled over the last 24 years."

Johnson, who did a fellowship in medical oncology at Seattle's pioneering Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, added "the underlying reason for this trend has not been solved, but factors such as the increasing rate of obesity and increased consumption of processed foods may play a role."

"Colon cancer is a potentially deadly disease and one-third of those diagnosed with colon cancer will die from that cancer," Johnson said.

"Studies have shown that populations screened with colonoscopies have colon cancers found at earlier stages and have a lower mortality than populations that are not screened."

Johnson believes this outcome will be shown going forward from screening patients at age 45 and will lead to the new ACS' guideline - now recommended on a "qualified" basis as data is analyzed - becoming "more widely recommended."

"It is going to save lives," Johnson said.

He also believes awareness of an increase in incidences of colorectal cancer in younger patients will make more primary care providers consider it as a possible diagnosis even in those with no known family or genetic predisposition for the disease.

Screening with either a high-sensitivity stool-based test or a structural visual examination, such as a colonoscopy, is recommended by the ACS to allow for patient preference and encourage screening with any positive results on the former followed up by a colonoscopy.

Screening is associated with reducing incidences of colorectal cancer, as well as mortality rates, through the detection and removal of polyps and other precancerous lesions.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States among cancers that affect both men and women.

The number of deaths is 14.5 per 100,000 men and women per year based on 2011-2015 deaths, according to the National Cancer Institute.



Aging has long been considered one of the biggest factors for colorectal cancer, and in-roads have been made in recent years thanks to better screening and detection to lower the incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer in older adults.

It is the under 50 age group where incidences of colorectal cancer are said to be on the rise, and in the case of early onset colorectal cancer to present new challenges in terms of awareness, diagnosis and treatment.

Studies have been increasingly calling for analysis of data to review current screening protocols.

The New England states have the highest percentage for colorectal screening rates for adults over 50 in the country. Massachusetts and Rhode Island are the highest at 76 percent. This is almost 20 points above the state with the lowest percentage - Wyoming.

Mercy's Johnson noted that if more people were compliant with screening recommendations more colorectal cancers would be caught earlier.

Advocacy, education about the importance of screening and insurance coverage have all been cited as factors in screening rates.

At least one recent study has shown that people born in 1990 now have double the risk of colon cancer and quadruple the risk of rectal cancer compared to people born in 1950.

Holyoke Medical Center surgeon Dr. Francis Martinez called such an increase "alarming" and the reason for the ACS advocacy for updated guidelines.

New York's Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center recently opened its Center for Young Onset Colorectal Cancer.

The American College of Gastroenterology has recommended since 2005 screening for blacks at average risk begin at 45 to address that population's higher incident and mortality rates for colorectal cancer.

The American Cancer Society's qualified recommendation for colorectal screening to begin at 45 for those at average risk reflects in part today's technology's ability to help collect, analyze and model data to spot trends and suggest better health strategies.

In this case what has been called an "increasing incidence in patients in all racial and ethnic groups under 50 years of age" of colorectal cancer.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force, whose screening recommendations the Affordable Care Act mandates private insurers as well as Medicare, recommends screening begin at 50 for those at average risk for colorectal cancer.

Its latest recommendations - issued in June 2016 - acknowledge that data from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program "suggests that the incidence of colorectal cancer may be increasing among adults younger than 50 years. Modeling suggests there may be some potential advantages to starting colonoscopy screening at an earlier age (45 years) and to extending the interval between screenings with negative findings."

Other recent data studies have raised questions about USPTF guidelines in terms of age for baseline screenings for women at average risk for breast cancer and whether the age set at 50 needs to be re-evaluated on the basis of race.HOLYOKE -- The Western Massachusetts Puerto Rican Parade was held Sunday morning celebrating Latin culture and music through the streets of Holyoke.

The parade was part of a three-day festival beginning May 31 at Springdale Park.

The festival, which has been taking place in the city for more than 30 years, included music, amusement rides and other features along with the parade.

Diosdado Lopez organizes the festival and parade every year as the head of La Familia Hispana Inc.

This year Springfield and Holyoke will be honored by the National Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City on June 10.8

Gallery: Springfield Police still on scene at Page Boulevard home where 3 bodies foundATTLEBORO - A Stoughton man was killed early Sunday morning after he crashed into a tow truck on Interstate-95.

Michael A. Avelar, 26, crashed his 1994 Honda Civic into a wrecker, which was parked on the side of the road. The crash happened shortly after 2 a.m. and Avelar was pronounced dead on the scene, Massachusetts State Police said.

An Attleboro Police officer had called for the tow truck to assist the owner of a car which had broken down on the southbound side of the highway, police said.

The tow truck operator was not in the vehicle when it was struck and there were no other injuries reported in the crash. Debris from the crash did damage the police cruiser, police said.

All the vehicles were towed from the scene, including the tow truck, police said.

The cause of the crash continues to be under investigation by State Police troopers from the Foxboro Barracks. Officers were assisted at the crash by State Police Troop H Headquarters, State Police Detective Unit assigned to Bristol County District Attorney's Office, State Police Crime Scene Services Section, State Police Collision Analysis Reconstruction Section, the Attleboro Fire Department, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.WOBURN - A 75-year-old Vermont man was killed after he drove off a highway ramp and crashed his three-wheel motorcycle Saturday afternoon.

Arthur J. Healey Jr., of Barre, Vermont, was brought to the Lahey Clinic, in Burlington by ambulance with serious injuries. He later died at the hospital, Massachusetts State Police said.

Healey was driving a 2017 Harley Davidson Tri-Glide motorcycle on the ramp from Interstate-93 southbound to Interstarte-95 southbound at about 1 p.m., when he lost control of the vehicle. After he left the roadway the motorcycle rolled over, police said.

The ramp was closed to traffic for about 90 minutes while troopers cleared the scene and gathered evidence, police said.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by troopers assigned to the State Police Andover Barracks. State Police Crime Scene Services Section, State Police Collision Analysis Reconstruction Section, Troop A Headquarters, Woburn Fire Department and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation assisted at the crash.A swimmer drowned in Webster Lake Saturday night, police said.



Police said a swimmer went under the water at about 7:30 p.m. and never came back up. The Massachusetts Fire District 7 Dive team arrived 10 minutes later, Stephen Coleman, the public information officer for District 7, said.

While waiting for the team to arrive several people nearby, including an off-duty Webster police officer, went into the water and searched for the man. They could not find him, NECN reports.

Seven divers and five firefighters arrived on the scene, Coleman said and searched for 40 minutes before pulling the man's body out of the water. He was taken to Hubbard Hospital where he was pronounced dead.



Police told the television station that the drowning appears to be an accident and not suspicious.A 34-year-old man was hit by a train in Downtown Fitchburg Saturday night.

The man had serious injuries when he was found lying by the tracks shortly before 10 p.m., Fitchburg Deputy Fire Chief Gregg Normandin told the Sentinel Enterprise.



The man was taken to HealthAlliance Hospital in Leominster and later was flown by medical helicopter to UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, the newspaper reports.



MBTA detectives are investigating the incident.The Montana Department of Commerce works with statewide and local partners, private industry and small businesses to enhance and sustain economic prosperity in Montana. - Montana Is On The Move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.DETROIT, MI - A family is searching for answers after its dog was found dead on a Delta Air Lines flight layover at Detroit Metro Airport.

The dog, an 8-year-old Pomeranian named Alejandro, was reportedly put on a flight from Phoenix to Newark, New Jersey, where his family is planning to move, according to WXYZ.

"We lost a member of our family." Alejandro the dog's owners are searching for answers, after their dog was found dead in his crate. Posted by FOX 2 Detroit on Sunday, June 3, 2018

According to Delta, a flight attendant checked on Alejandro around 6 a.m. Wednesday, May 30. When the attendant checked two hours later, the dog was dead, WXYZ reports.

"When he landed here in Michigan, he was alive at 6:30 a.m., and then at 8:20, he wasn't moving and it just doesn't make any sense to me," said Alejandro's owner Michael Dellagrazie, according to WDIV.

In a statement, Delta says it is "conducting a thorough review of the situation to find out more about why this may have occurred to ensure it doesn't happen again," according to WXYZ.

Dellagrazie flew into Detroit on Saturday afternoon with his attorney, Evan Oshan, WDIV reports.

Oshan also represented the owners of Koketo, the French bulldog who was killed on a United Airlines flight back in March.

The attorney says he saw blood on some of the items they've retrieved from Delta, which concerned him enough to call police to the scene, according to FOX 2 Detroit.

Oshan says the family plans to take the dog's body to an independent agency for an autopsy to determine the cause of his death, Fox 2 reports.ANN ARBOR, MI -- A rally drew about 150 people in favor of gun control to Liberty Plaza on Saturday, June 2.

The event was hosted by the Washtenaw County chapter of Moms Demand Action, a nationwide pro gun-control group.

The event started with speakers of all ages from around the county. Topics included living as a gun violence survivor and the concentration of violence in poverty-stricken areas.



Scores of protestors wore orange shirts, part of the Wear Orange movement, started by friends of the Chicago-born, Hadiya Pendleton.

Pendleton was 15 when she was shot in back and killed while playing at a park in Chicago a week after performing in her school marching band at former President Barack Obama's second inauguration.



"They chose the color orange because it's the color that hunters wear to avoid getting shot," said Celeste Kanpurwala, an organizer who's part of MDA.



Kanpurwala's involvement stems from her father's death from a firearm suicide. Now, she has kids of her own, and fully understands the risks from guns.

"I got involved because I have two little boys." Kanpurwala said. "I want a better, safer future for them."



More than 38,000 people died of gun-related injuries in 2016, according to the National Safety Council website.



Dana Levin, a protester at the Liberty Plaza event, said she worries about her child, Gabriel Kosnoski,

"When my son was 2 years old, he came home from preschool saying that they had a lockdown," she said. "I don't think my kids should be scared in school. This is what really just got me. The Constitution has been misinterpreted."



The event ended with protesters singing songs like "This Little Light of Mine" and certain selections from The Beatles. For more information about how to join Moms Demand Action, visit momswashtenaw.weebly.comANN ARBOR, MI -- Music filled Washington Street on Saturday for "Live On Washington," one of 20 programs hosted by The Neutral Zone.

The event started at 3 p.m June 2 and included bands Rosewood, The Quintet, Day Dream Project and the Australian electronic duo Kllo on two stages.

Other attractions included face-painting, pin-making, print-block carving, and a number of food trucks and carts.

The small music festival was organized and planned by local teens, and admission was free. At least 3,000 people attended, according to Suzie Staley, Neutral Zone's program director.

Sponsors included Bank of Ann Arbor, Rock Stars, Richner + Richner.GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- A nonprofit housing agency would like to construct a building up to seven stories tall for senior housing on a vacant lot at Division and Wealthy in Grand Rapids.

The project is one of the last large-scale investments by the Inner City Christian Federation (ICCF) in the Tapestry Square neighborhood. ICCF began its work in the Tapestry Square neighborhood 20 years ago, purchasing and redeveloping almost four blighted city blocks. The redevelopment was based on ideas from community planning events.

ICCF has owned the block between Division, Wealthy, Logan and Sheldon for the past 10 years, and it is planning two to five buildings on the site. Right now the site is vacant, save for a Silver Line Bus Rapid Transit stop.

The first building on the block will be for senior housing, said Ryan Schmidt, vice president of real estate development and management for ICCF.

ICCF is asking the planning commission to approve a zoning change to Traditional Neighborhood-Transit Oriented Development for the site to allow them to build up to seven stories. Existing zoning, Traditional Neighborhood-Transitional City Center, allows for a building up to four to five stories.

Schmidt says ICCF plans to submit an application for Low-Income Housing Tax Credit funding in October to the Michigan State Housing Development Authority for the senior housing facility, which will contain 80 to 100 units.

ICCF is consulting with senior housing providers about the project.

"A contractual relationship is possible," Schmidt said.

The senior housing facility will offer 60 percent of its units to low-income seniors, and the remainder will be market rate. Schmidt said ICCF uses the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program criteria for defining affordability.

Though a grocery store was among the initial goals for the Tapestry Square neighborhood, Schmidt said ICCF has not been able to find traction with a grocery store.

"We've spoken to every grocer active in West Michigan," Schmidt said. "While we're not against a grocery component, it is not the driver for the development activity that is being currently planned."ALLENDALE, MI - A 20-year-old Wyoming, Michigan woman was pinned inside her vehicle following a Saturday night crash at the intersection of 68th Avenue and Warner Street in Allendale, according to the Ottawa County Sheriff's office.

(File photo | MLive.com)

The woman was extricated from the vehicle and sent to an area hospital, according to the sheriff's office. She was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Deputies were dispatched at around 11:45 p.m. Saturday to a crash at the corner of 68th Avenue and Warner Street in Allendale, according to the sheriff's office.

Investigators said a 31-year-old man from Mason driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee stopped at a flashing red light on eastbound Warner at the intersection of 68th Avenue. The man proceeded into traffic and struck a Mazda driven by a 20-year-old Wyoming woman, according to the sheriff's office.

The collision pinned the woman inside her vehicle, who was later extricated and taken to an area hospital for further treatment, according to the sheriff's office.

Life EMS and the Allendale Fire Department assisted deputies on scene.OCEANA COUNTY, MI - These illegal gamblers should have known when to hold 'em.

At least 15 people were arrested Saturday after West Michigan law enforcement busted an illegal rooster fighting ring in Hart Township, according to Michigan State Police.

Each of the subjects arrested are being charged with felony animal fighting, state police said. Another 16 vehicles were impounded by police at the scene.

Michigan State Police's Hart post is investigating the illegal gambling ring, police said. The names of the subjects arrested will not be released until they have been arraigned.

Troopers from the Hart post, along with other law enforcement agencies in Oceana County, were informed that a large rooster fighting ring may have been operating out of a wooded area in Hart Township, police said.

The location of the ring is unknown, but upon arrival, troopers located a group of approximately 30 individuals engaged in rooster fighting, police said. When law enforcement approached, many of the illegal gamblers fled the scene on foot into the dense woods surrounding the venue.

A state police K9 team assisted troopers on scene and located six fleeing individuals a short distance away, police said. Some of them also attempted to hide, unsuccessfully.

Police arrested 15 people, who were later lodged in the Oceana County Jail.

Investigators said that the ring consisted of 35 live roosters, either in pens or actively fighting. There was also a large pit on the premises that contained the bodies of 10 dead roosters.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Oceana County Sheriff's Office, Oceana County Animal Control and the Hart and Pentwater police departments all assisted troopers on scene. :          

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 NORRISTOWN  As recovery efforts continue in the weeks after the remnants of Hurricane Ida swept through Montgomery County, officials authorized $1.3 million in contracts last week related to storm clean-up. Montgomery County Commissioners declared an emergency in the county one day after the Sept. 1 storm, which brought widespread damage to the county, including historic flooding levels and an...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,Letter to editor: Congress can get this rightVous etes confrontes a une infestation par la puce, la punaise de lit ? Voici plusieurs actions qui sont a mettre en uvre pour faire []MERIDEN  For over a decade, Barbara Mase has maintained and played the original organ installed at Meridens First Congregational Church in 1929.

Its been an interesting journey here, said Mase, minister of music and organist at the church. Ive played many organs in my life, throughout the world and throughout various states, and this has got to be one of the finest instruments Ive ever played.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Mase grew up with music. She started with the violin at age five and then the piano at seven. At age 10, she took up the organ and became the organist for her local church.

After high school, Mase received her music education degree from the Boston Conservatory of Music. Later she received her masters from the University of Hartford and the Hartford Seminary.

Before becoming the church music director and organist, the New Britain resident worked in Nashvilles music industry as a concert manager. She also performed with several Christian recording artists including, Tom Netherton (best known for his tenure on the Lawrence Welk Show).

Despite a variety of musical experiences, the organ has remained her instrument of choice.

This is the instrument of the ages, she said during a recent practice for a church concert set for Sunday, June 10. This is the king and youre seeing royalty.

The organ is also a rare sight since many churches have converted to digital and electronic music systems, Mase said.

You do have instruments like this at big places, she said, referencing the organ at Hartfords Bushnell Center. As far as the future of organists, I know when I was in college there were five of us studying the organ. That was way back when, I dont really know how many people now are studying the organ.

Organs like the one in Meriden are rare hard to maintain, said Mase.

Made in 1928 by the Austin Organ Company of Hartford, the church organ continues to be maintained and serviced twice a year. Last year, significant work was done on the organ to keep it functioning.

Only one other organ preceded the current one in the churchs nearly 300-year history.

Its always fascinated me, said Marcus Hamilton, historian for First Congregational Church. Its one of the first things you hear when you walk into the church.

Hamilton recently researched the history of the organ. He plans to show his findings at the summer concert directed by Mase later this month.

We explored it from top to bottom, Hamilton said.

The various components that make the organ work are housed within three floors of the church. The organss pipes and corresponding blower are located in a hidden space in the boiler room. Upstairs consists of a pressurized air box that holds hundreds of small pipes. Only a few upgrades have been made since 1929. The overall system has remained unchanged.

To me, it is just an honor and a joy to be minister of music here and to have the opportunity to play such a magnificent instrument as this, Mase said.

One of her favorite pieces to play is Battle Hymn of the Republic, also known as Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory. The song will be played at the end of the June concert in memory of two parishioners.

Its kind of like making a recipe, she said of her musical process. There are many great master works that you know the certain combinations that the composer was looking for and you try to mimic that, but its also up to you as the organist if what you hear sounds good.

In the case of Battle Hymn of the Republic, Mase said she was playing around with the notes one day and came across a drum sound that she decided to use in the beginning of the piece.

Youre a composer in your own right as well as a performer, she said. I kind of do my own thing.

Mase said she has no plans to leave the organ or her position at the church anytime soon.

Thats why its called king of the instruments, she said, because it can be as quiet as a whisper and it can roar like a lion.

More information on First Congregational Church can be found at http://www.fccmeriden.org/

akus@record-journal.com

203-317-2448

Twitter: @KusReporterAishik Chanda By

Express News Service

PURULIA: While the lives of 30-year-old shopkeeper Dulal Kumar and 21-year-old Trilochan Mahato were different, events leading to the deaths of both the BJP workers -- who were found hanging near their villages in Balarampur in Purulia district of West Bengal in a span of three days -- were strikingly similar.

While B.A. third year student Trilochan, youngest of four sons of 58-year-old Hariram Mahato and 45-year-old Pano Mahato of Supurdi village, was a famous graffiti maker of BJP; ration shop owner

Dulal, a father of three children in Dava village, was an influential booth leader. Both had joined BJP a few months back.

According to residents of the two villages which are 10 km apart, both Trilochan and Dulal were threatened by unknown persons a few days before their deaths as both were leaders of BJPs Booth Raksha Committee formed to prevent rigging in the panchayat elections. BJP won all the nine Gram Panchayats in Balarampur in the recent elections.

After our victory in the panchayat elections, we held a victory rally in the village in which all the residents contributed around 1.5 quintal chicken and celebrated. The celebration irked the local TMC leaders and they threatened Trilochan with dire consequences as he was very active as a party member, local BJP member Bijoy Mahato said.

BJP Mahila Morcha and Yuva Morcha activists take part in a rally against

recent killings of BJP's Trilochan Mahato and Dulal Kumar in Purulia allegedly

by the Trinamool Congress party workers in Kolkata on June 02 2018. | PTI

On the other hand, Dulals 27-year-old widow Monica Kumar said he too was threatened by unknown persons a few days before his death. My husband told me that unknown persons threatened him a few days ago saying: You have become a very big leader. We will take care of you, Monica Kumar said.

They wanted to seek revenge and teach people a lesson. So, they killed locally influential BJP workers, said 60-year-old Bhootnath Kumar, who won panchayat elections from Dava village on a BJP

ticket.

Narrating the events leading up to the death of Trilochan, his brother Shibnath said: He had gone to Balarampur to photocopy his documents on May 29 at 4.30 pm. At 7.18 pm, I called him and he said

he will return after a half hour. Not finding him after returning home, I called him 12 times from 8 pm onwards. Finally, he picked the call at 8.37 pm and said he was kidnapped by five people and his hands were tied and eyes blindfolded. He said before being blindfolded, he was being taken into Atkathia forest, 1.5 km from Supurdi. A police team launched search and found the body at 5 am.

They wanted to create an example that ordinary people should not vote for BJP, said Balarampur BJYM president Chotulal Mahato.

Both Trilochans father Hariram Mahato and Dulals widow Monica Kumar alleged involvement of locals in the murder. My husband had a fixed routine. He would deliver food to his father at our shop on the highway thrice a day and in the evening he would take bath in a local pond. On June 1, he returned from police station gherao programme of BJP at around 4 pm and went to deliver food to father and then was taking bath in the pond. But even when he did not return after an hour, we started searching him. His body was found next day on a power transmission tower one kilometer from

the village. I suspect the involvement of locals in the murder who knew his routine, Monica Kumar said.

Definitely locals were involved in the murder or else how did they know about his whereabouts, Hariram Mahato said. Asked whether they suspected anyone, both replied in negative.By PTI

JAMMU: The latest attack on Indian forward points by Pakistani forces, in which two BSF jawans were killed today, has yet again proved that Islamabad said one thing and did another, a senior official said here.

Inspector General of Border Security Force (BSF), Jammu frontier, Ram Awtar also ruled out that sniping or an attack by enemy personnel wearing 'thermal camouflage suits' led to the two casualties on the International Border (IB) here.

Both BSF personnel fell to cross-border firing from Pakistan, he said.

Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey - both residents of Uttar Pardesh - were killed and 13 civilians injured in unprovoked and indiscriminate firing by Pakistani rangers in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district today, officials said.

The violation comes nearly a week after DGMOs of both countries agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".

ALSO READ | Infiltration bid foiled in Jammu and Kashmir's Keran sector, militant killed

Awtar said the ceasefire violation by Pakistan after the recent DGMO level talks between New Delhi and Islamabad again proved that the neighbouring country's words did not match its deeds.

"It is saying something but doing something else. The latest incident proved it once again," he said.

Awtar said the BSF was strictly implementing the decision taken at the DGMO level by the two countries last week.

"Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed," he said referring to the latest incident.

It was targeted firing on forward duty points by Pakistan, he added.

Talking to reporters after the wreath laying ceremony of the deceased personnel at the force headquarters here, the senior BSF officer said the casualties were not the result of sniping but of sudden cross-border firing from Pakistan.

"We have strongly responded and in the coming days we will come to know about the damage suffered by Pakistan in the retaliatory action," he said.

He said the BSF did not target civilian locations but Pakistani forces did.

We only targeted the locations that targeted us but Pakistan, on the other hand, started targeting civilian areas of Pragwal and Kanachak since wee hours resulting in civilian casualties and damage to civil property, Awtar said.

Asked about rumours suggesting the casualties were caused by personnel wearing 'thermal camouflage suits' to avoid detection, he said "I don't think something like that happened in this case."

"There is a need to study this case thoroughly. After every incident we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well," the BSF IG said.

Earlier today, the bodies of two slain personnel were brought to the BSF headquarters where the wreath ceremony was held to bid farewell to them.

State Power Minister Sunil Sharma and former health minister Bali Baghat joined senior BSF, police and civil officers to pay tributes to the slain personnel whose bodies were later sent to their hometowns in Uttar Pradesh.

Power Minister Sharma warned Pakistan to desist from such activities or get ready to be wiped out from the face of the earth.

"This time the central government is very determined and our message to Pakistan is to either change or get ready to be wiped out," the power minister said.

He saluted the bravery of the security personnel and said "there is tolerance level and India has shown much patience. I think the time has come we should teach Pakistan a lesson for its misadventures."

He lauded border residents for braving frequent Pakistan shelling and said the time was not far when they will get rid of this menace.

"Though it is the domain of the centre, defence ministry and defence strategists, we understand that we are not going to tolerate the killings anymore. We are making our efforts to normalize the situation but they are showing desperation and hurling grenades and firing on the borders," he said.

India would not be cowed down by such actions, he asserted.Aishik Chanda By

Express News Service

KOLKATA: Days, after 18-year-old BJP leader Trilochan Mahato was found hanging by a tree in Balarampur in West Bengals Purulia district with a poster, stuck on his back blaming his association with the saffron party for his death, another BJP worker was found hanging by a high-tension power transmission tower in the same area on Saturday morning.

Local BJP worker Dulal Kumar (30), a shopkeeper and resident of Dava village of Balarampur, was found hanging by the high-tension tower after going missing on Friday night. The deceased BJP workers

kin claimed that he returned home after attending BJPs police station gherao programme on Friday evening and went out again at night for some personal work. When he did not return till late in the night, a search was launched and his motorbike was found near a local pond. The deceaseds kin claimed that calls to his mobile phone were repeatedly cut.

The deaths gain significance as BJP has swept all the Gram Panchayats in Balarampur in the recently-concluded panchayat elections. After the two killings in the same area, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought a detailed report from the state government within four weeks time.

On the other hand, the state government has handed over the case to the state Crime Investigation Department (CID). Additional Director General of Police (law and order) Anuj Sharma stated a CID probe

has been launched to investigate the cause of death and whether outsiders from neighbouring state Jharkhand were involved.

As a result of the double hanging of BJP workers in Balarampur in Purulia district of West Bengal, Purulia SP Joy Biswas was transferred and Akash Magharia took charge as the new SP.

BJP chief Amit Shah expressed grief over the deaths.

Distressed to know about yet another killing of BJP karyakarta Dulal Kumar in Balrampur, West Bengal. This continued brutality and violence in the land of West Bengal is shameful and inhuman. Mamata Banerjees govt has completely failed to maintain law and order in the state. pic.twitter.com/jrA1prcs91  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 2, 2018

"I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved family. I along with millions of BJP karyakartas share grief of Dulal Kumars family. May God give his family the strength to withstand this irreparable loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti," the BJP president tweeted.

Meanwhile, BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha demanded CBI probe into Dulal Kumar's death. Trinamool Congress has lost ground in Purulia which is why they are using Maoists active in the area to kill our workers. We demand CBI inquiry into the killings, he said.

TMC MP Derek o Brien said that role of Bajrang Dal, Maoists or BJP will also be probed. We strongly condemn this despicable killing. All angles must be probed. The perpetrators of this heinous act must be punished. What role did Jharkhand border have to play? What elements of Bajrang Dal, Maoist or BJP involved. Let the truth be found out through proper investigation, he tweeted.

On the other hand, BJP leader Mukul Roy has rushed to the crime spot at Balarampur. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees nephew and Diamond Harbour MP also visited Purulia and told TMC workers to buck up and regain lost ground.On June 2, 2018, Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa attended an official ceremony in honour of Mr. Camille Gira, State Secretary for Sustainable Development and Infrastructure. Camille Gira, Luxembourg's state secretary for the environment, died on 16 May 2018 from heart failure.The 59-year-old Green politician suffered a heart attack while giving a speech in parliament and died a few hours later in hospital. Gira had been a member of the Green Party since 1993.Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Variable clouds with thunderstorms, especially late. Low near 65F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with thunderstorms, especially late. Low near 65F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%.The society has obtained more than $400,000 in funding from the Environmental Campaign Committee to organise bird watching activities for the disabled. (Pic: Hong Kong Bird Watching Society)

More than 500 species of birds have been identified in the city, including a large number of black-crowned night herons.

Yellow-crested cockatoos have bred in Hong Kong after being brought in and kept as pets by British soldiers in the past.

Hong Kong Bird Watching Society Crested Bulbul Club Committee Member Leung Hau-kin (right) has used his years of experience in the electronics industry to develop a bird watching gadget.

Amid the hustle and bustle of city life, bird watching is a relaxing and enjoyable experience for all ages.

The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society is dedicated to raising conservation awareness for feathered species and promotes the joy of observing birds to local residents and tourists.

The society's elderly volunteer group, the Crested Bulbul Club, organises regular activities. Its members are using innovative ideas and specialised training to diversify bird watching guide services.

Bird barriers

Sixty-six-year-old retiree Leung Hau-kin joined the club six years ago. However, he noticed the telescope used for bird watching had limitations.

As far as the kids are concerned or people in wheelchairs are concerned, because the height we set the telescope is pretty high, the kids will not be able to see it at their level.

During bird watching we very often find a flock of birds and maybe a very special species, within a flock of many others. And I intentionally want to introduce to the tourists about this particular bird. The tourists may observe another bird in the telescope. So we do have a communication gap.

To tackle such restraints, Mr Leung made use of his many years of experience in the electronics industry to develop a bird watching gadget.

It can attach a smartphone to a telescope so people can view the image in the telescope via the phone screen. Mr Leung can also display the image on a large screen.

"With the device, first of all, I will be able to eliminate the barrier of having only one person at one time looking into the telescope. So with the gear, I will be able to have many people at the same time watching the birds.

"The tourists can stick their cellular phones onto this piece of gear. They will be able to take a picture or take a short video into their cellular phones. I have been observing many of the tourists feel very happy about that. They share immediately on the Internet the picture or video with their friends as well as their relatives overseas. And they feel very excited about it."

Aviary origins

The Crested Bulbul Club is named after a common bird in Hong Kong, the red-whiskered bulbul.

The club now has more than 200 elderly volunteers who have all received training and passed exams. They organise regular bird watching activities and provide guide services.

People can join their walk-in activities every Wednesday and Friday morning in Hong Kong Park and Kowloon Park respectively. Entry is free.

The club's Chairperson Yau Hon-kwong said the origin of certain species settling in Hong Kong dates back to the city's time as a British colony.

"Hong Kong Park was originally a military barracks. There is a lovely bird species residing in the park called the yellow-crested cockatoo. It originates in Southeast Asia and is not a native species in Hong Kong.

"It is reported the British soldiers kept these birds as pets here. But during the Second World War they released the birds. Then the species settled down in this particular area of the city and bred.

"Kowloon Park was a barracks too. The British soldiers kept parrots as pets there also, such as the Alexandrine parakeet. When the soldiers released the birds, the species then settled down there."

Mr Yau said Hong Kong is a small place but has diversified habitats. He said more than 500 species of birds have been identified in the city.

"There is something special in Kowloon Park this year. Many black-crowned night heron are here in the Bird Lake. They nest and breed here. We counted them and there are more than 100. This was very rare in the past, so this year is very special."

Diversifying for the disabled

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Crested Bulbul Club. The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society has obtained funding approval of more than $400,000 from the Environmental Campaign Committee to organise bird watching activities for the disabled.

This two-year plan will start in September and club members will serve as bird watching guides.

The society's General Manager Lo Wai-yan said they organised a successful bird watching tour to Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve for a group of visually impaired people last year.

"There is a beautiful forest. These people can listen to the beautiful and special sounds of forest birds there. And we brought with us some bird figures. Some figures are life-size, so these people can touch them while listening to the real sounds. They found it an interesting experience."

To equip the guides with skills catering to the disabled, Mr Lo said the society will invite professionals to provide training, such as audio description workshops for people with visual impairment.

He said the plan marks a new chapter for the club in diversifying its bird watching guide services, adding it will keep up the good work.The former ICT minister said if he won the next elections, he would introduce reforms, including in the education sector where he said the new curriculum had done more harm than good.Government will not interfere with Internet connectivity or sanction illicit monitoring of citizens private communication over the election period, a Cabinet minister has said.



In line with Governments new approach of promoting individual freedoms, the use of Internet will be promoted to facilitate communication.



Industry regulator, Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) will soon begin an aggressive public awareness programme to promote responsible use of internet-based communication platforms, including social media.





Internet shutdowns have been used in several jurisdictions as governments grappled with the rising tide of fake news.





However, Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Cyber Security Minister Mr Supa Mandiwanzira told The Sunday Mail last week that Government does not have an appetite to interfere with social media freedoms.





Section 61 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression.

He said President Mnangagwa, who is an active participant on social media, is serious about promoting individual freedoms.





He, however, cautioned against fake news and stories that needlessly cause alarm and despondency, especially on the new media platforms.

We have no intention to curtail Internet freedom or social media freedoms simply because there is an election.





The Government values the various platforms that Zimbabweans use to share ideas and express their opinions and therefore, dont expect us to do anything that undermines those platforms, said Mr Mandiwanzira.





However, we are encouraging people to use those platforms responsibly. Avoid spreading fake news and causing unnecessary grief and pain to other people.





The President is very serious about promoting individual freedoms and is not in any way prepared to curtail peoples access to the Internet during and after the election period.





The President himself is an active participant on social media, including Facebook and Twitter, where he personally engages with citizens and updates them on Government programmes.





We see no need to curtail the freedoms that come with Internet access. We are in fact promoting the use of technology as a means of facilitating development.

Our ministry is working hard to ensure that every citizen can have access to the Internet in future, he said.





President Mnangagwa routinely uses social media to interact with Zimbabweans from around the world.





As of yesterday, he had over 320 000 followers on Facebook and 130 000 followers on Twitter.

He has also been actively encouraging Zanu-PFs supporters to aggressively promote the partys policies on social media.





Last week, Potraz director-general Dr Gift Kallisto Machengete told The Sunday Mail that the regulators primary role is to raise awareness on responsible use of new technologies.





Election time is a volatile period in which abuse of the Internet and social media is highly likely, said Dr Machengete.

Potrazs primary role during this period is to continuously raise awareness and educate consumers through various platforms on the importance of responsible use of the Internet and social media.





Potraz will also intensify its collaboration with law enforcement agencies, especially the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), in facilitating prosecution of offences under Section 88 of the Postal and Telecommunications Act [Chapter 12:05] in relation to abuse of telephony, which includes the Internet and, by extension, the social media.





Currently, the authority is conducting road shows interfacing with consumers, teaching them about their rights, and discouraging them from abusing social media.





We are also carrying out consumer education and awareness campaigns to sensitise subscribers on their obligations in terms of responsible use of social media.





The long-term plan, however, is to try and catch them young through our Child Online Protection Framework and intervene from kindergarten level, to inculcate the culture of responsible use of the cyber space at that level, right through to tertiary level.





Government is presently crafting a legal instrument to regulate the abuse of the Internet, particularly social media, and promote indigenous social online applications and locally developed social media platforms.





Other African countries have similar laws to regulate the use of social media platforms.

Last month, Kenya enacted a law criminalising cybercrimes such as fake news, cyber-bullying and cyber-espionage.





The law provides for fines and prison sentences for 17 listed offences, including child pornography, unauthorised access, illegal devices and computer forgery. Sunday Mail10 of the Best Horror Movies

Released in the US Since 2000(Newser)  Brian De Palma is turning his filmmaking eye on the life of Harvey Weinsteinand yes, it will be a horror film. "I'm writing a film about this scandal, a project Im talking about with a French producer," the director of off-kilter Hollywood classics like Carrie, Dressed to Kill, and Body Double tells Le Parisien, via The Playlist. "My character won't be named Harvey Weinstein but it will be a horror film, with a sexual aggressor, and it will take place in the film industry." De Palma says he knows "a lot of the people involved" in the Weinstein story, having "heard stories over the years," per the BBC.

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The 77-year-old adds that directors must "get actors' confidence and their love" and says "to violate it on any level is just to me the worst thing you can do, just because of your gluttony or your lust." (De Palma isn't the only creative voice turning to the Weinstein story: David Mamet has written a play called "Bitter Wheat," IndieWire reported earlier this year.) De Palma also says that in the #MeToo era, women will acquire more film-industry power and possibly change our cinematic landscape. "It will be interesting to see when women start controlling the aesthetic, what is going to happen," he says. "It would be interesting to see if their gaze is so much different than ours. Because a lot of movies are about the male gaze, what the male sees." (Read more Harvey Weinstein stories.)(Newser)  "He's not, but he probably does." So said Rudy Giuliani on Sunday when asked whether President Trump has the power to pardon himself, Reuters reports. Appearing on ABC's This Week, Trump's lawyer clarified by saying that his client "has no intention of pardoning himself," then added that the US Constitution "doesn't say he can't." So will Trump sit down with Robert Mueller's team to answer questions about the special counsel's probe? "Were leaning toward not," said Giuliani, per Politico. "But look, if they can convince that it will be brief, it would be to the point, there were five or six points they have to clarify, and with that, we can get this long nightmare for the American public over."

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"Well say hey, you got everything you need, you got 1.4 million documents, you have 28 witnesses," he went on. "The presidents given every explanation and corrected some that were mis-impressions. Youve got everything you need, whatwhat do you need us for?" Not everyone around the Sunday dial took the issue in a seemingly casual manner. Preet Bharara, former US attorney for the Southern District of New York, said on CNN's State of the Union that it would be "outrageous" and nearly a "self-executing impeachment" for Trump to pardon himself, the Hill reports. On the same show, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy addressed the self-pardon issue thusly, per the Hill: "The president is not saying he is going to pardon himself. The president never said he pardoned himself. I don't think a president should pardon themselves." (See how Trump's lawyers are arguing that it's impossible for him to obstruct justice.)(Newser)  A go-to builder for celebrity Hamptons getaways is feared dead after a plane went down off the coast of Amagansett, Long Island on Saturday. Ben Krupinski, whose clients included Martha Stewart and Billy Joel, was aboard the Piper PA-31 Navajo along with his wife, Bonnie, and grandson Will Maerov, 22. The pilot was 47-year-old Jon Dollard, who authorities say flew the Krupinski's plane into an unexpected storm, per ABC 7. However, the NTSB has not yet determined the exact cause of the crash. Two bodies were recovered and the Coast Guard on Sunday resumed the search for the other two people before suspending it, the AP reports. It was not immediately clear which of the four passengers had been recovered.

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Bernard Krupinski grew up in East Hampton before starting his business, Ben Krupinski Builders, there. He and Bonnie were prominent members of the community, where they were beloved for their well-known philanthropy. According to the New York Post, the couple owned a real-estate empire worth some $150 million. Eastern Long Island is known for its celebrity presence, with many wealthy and prominent individuals spending time there, particularly in the summer months. Small planes and helicopters are popular, as a way to avoid the bumper-to-bumper traffic on the Long Island Expressway. (Read more Hamptons stories.)New Delhi:

Goa BJP womenas wing president Sulakshana Sawant said that the government cannot provide security to every individual. The comment comes days after a 20-year-old woman was allegedly gang-raped on a South Goa beach.

The opposition Congress has criticised Sawant for her adisgustinga statement and demanded her resignation on moral grounds.

"The government cannot provide security to every individual. We need to change the mentality of the people. An individual can act as a protector of the other," Sawant told a press conference in Panaji on Saturday, while responding to a question on the alleged gang-rape of the woman on a South Goa beach on May 25.

The 20-year-old victim was allegedly sexually molested by three men from Indore in front of her boyfriend, the police had said.

Sawant said there was an increase in the number of rape cases being reported to the police as more women are now coming forward to report such crimes.

"The women believe that something may change if they take a step forward (and report such cases)," she added.

The BJP womenas wing would request the state tourism department to install CCTV camera on the crime-prone beaches of Goa, which attract millions of tourist every year.

Meanwhile, the Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee (GPMCC) said it was the responsibility of the government to provide security to every individual.

"It is disgusting that Sawant is making such a statement. She should immediately resign on moral grounds," GPMCC chief Pratima Coutinho said and added that it was the government's responsibility to provide security to every individual, especially women.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

The Indian Homeopathic Medical Associations Kerala section has claimed to have proper medicines to treat the deadly Nipah virus which has created a havoc in Kerala.

Homeopathy has the appropriate medicines for all types of fever and hence they should be allowed to treat the infected patients, said B Unnikrishnan, an Indian Homeopathic Medical Association official.

The association has requested the state Health Minister KK Shailaja to allow homeopathy professionals to evaluate the records of all patients who have been tested positive for the NiV virus, popularly called Nipah.

However, the state Health Secretary Rajiv Sadanandan told the media on Sunday that he has no information regarding this development.

"The homeopathy department is directly under me and so far no one has approached me or the department with this. We have no issues at all to look into it," said Sadanandan.

Sadanandan said that four infected out of the 18 positive cases of Nipah never had any direct contact with other patients.

"Due to the timely intervention of the health authorities, they have been able to contain the spread. But one unfortunate thing that has happened is circulation of false news on social media. There is no need to panic or fear. Things are under control," the secretary added.

Till now, six people have been arrested by the Kozhikode police for circulating false information on social media.

In various churches on Sunday at Kozhikode, the priests served the serving of the Holy Mass to the hands of the people, instead of serving them directly into their mouths.



So far, 16 people have lost their lives while two are recovering from the deadly Nipah virus. Whereas around 2,000 people are being monitored who came in contact with the infected patients.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Two BSF personnel were killed and ten civilians including a woman suffered critical injuries after Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing along the International Border on Sunday.

Both the personnel, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector, were rushed to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment.

The firing from across the border in Jammu and Kashmir's Akhnoor sector started in the wee hours of Sunday and prompted a strong and effective retaliation by the BSF. The cross-border firing was going on when last reports came in.

Here are the LIVE updates on ceasefire violation:

# 02:37 PM: We are fully prepared to face any situation. 13 civilians are injured but their morale is high, we have made full arrangements to vacate people from vulnerable areas: IGP Jammu SD Singh.

We are fully prepared to face any situation. 13 civilians are injured but their morale is high, we have made full arrangements to vacate people from vulnerable areas: IGP Jammu SD Singh on ceasefire violation by Pakistan #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/xGpHjSabQh  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

# 01:31 PM: Wreath-laying ceremony of BSF's Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey and ASI Satya Narayan Yadav took place.

Wreath laying ceremony of BSF's Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey and ASI Satya Narayan Yadav who lost their lives in cross-border firing by Pakistan in Akhnoor earlier today. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/NHf7gRnycU  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

# 11:59 AM: It's unfortunate that this has happened even after Directors-General of Military Operations (DGMOs) held dialogue. People on both sides of the border are dying. The DGMOs should hold dialogue again. This bloodshed must be brought to an end, says Jammu and Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti.

It's unfortunate that this has happened even after Directors-General of Military Operations (DGMOs) held dialogue. People on both sides of the border are dying. The DGMOs should hold dialogue again. This bloodshed must be brought to an end: #JammuAndKashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti pic.twitter.com/nYCQdQWGde  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

# 10:18 AM:

#JammuAndKashmir: Pakistan indulges in cross-border firing in Akhnoor, visuals from the area. 2 BSF jawans lost their lives & 3 civilians were injured. Firing started at 0115 hours, BSF is retaliating. pic.twitter.com/48Lu7e9sWC  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

# 09:30 AM:

BSF's Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey and ASI Satya Narayan Yadav, who were injured in cross-border firing by Pakistan in Akhnoor, succumbed to their injuries. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/OXgly9L6IZ  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

# 09:10 AM: 3 civilians injured in cross-border firing by Pakistan in Akhnoor.

# 08:57 AM: According to locals in Akhnoor sector, the firing by Pakistani militants has been going on since 2:30 am and could not sleep the entire night out of fear.

Firing from Pakistan has been on since 2.30 am, we did not sleep since then, all of us here are very scared: Akhnoor local. Two BSF personnel had lost their lives in cross-border firing. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/xlbWNIGoqV  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

# 05:38 AM: Two BSF personnel killed in cross-border firing by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Akhnoor sector.

Two BSF personnel killed in cross-border firing by Pakistan in #JammuAndKashmir's Akhnoor. More details awaited. pic.twitter.com/slYwGVrYvM  ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2018

Also Read | Security forces on high alert in Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir; large-scale infiltration reported

Pakistan violated the ceasefire days after the Director General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan on May 29 agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit". The decision was taken with an aim to stop border skirmishes in Jammu and Kashmir.

The recent deaths in the Pakistani firing raised the casualty figure during ceasefire violations along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC) in the state to 46. The dead includes 20 security personnel.

Also Read | Centre releases Rs 8,000 crore for power sector in J&K

Last month, thousands of people residing along the IB in Jammu, Kathua and Samba districts had to flee their homes following intense shelling from Pakistan between May 15 and May 23 which left 12 people dead, including two BSF jawans and an infant, and scores of others injured.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

The Election Commission (EC) on Sunday ordered a probe into the Congress partys allegations of large-scale anomalies in Madhya Pradesh voters list.

The move came hours after a Congress delegation approached the EC and claimed that there were at least 60 lakh bogus voters in the state, which will go to polls in November.

The poll panel formed two teams to probe the allegations and set a deadline for them to submit a report by June 7.

Earlier in the day, the Congress had accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in the central Indian state of deliberately duplicating voter entries.

Madhya Pradesh State Congress Committee president Kamal Nath claimed that the BJP indulged in electoral misconduct ahead of Assembly polls in the state and included the names of 60 lakh fake voters in the voters list.

Kamalnath said that they have also submitted evidence to the Election Commission (EC) and requested it to remove all such entries from the electoral rolls of the 230 Assembly constituencies in the state.

We have provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list, the Congress leader said in a press conference after meeting the commission.

The EC teams will visit the Narela, Bhojpur, Seoni-Malwa and Hoshangabad assembly seats to ascertain how the discrepancies occurred.

(With inputs from agencies)

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

After two days of relentless curfew in Shillong, the government on Sunday lifted the lockout for seven hours in order to allow people to get their essential commodities.

For past 2 days, life had come to a standstill in the capital of Meghalaya with government imposing a strict curfew following an altercation between state police personnel and stone pelters.

"Curfew would be lifted from 8 am to 3 pm tomorrow (Sunday) in curfew areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House areas to allow people to get their essential commodities," IANS quoted Peter S Dkhar, Deputy Commissioner in-charge, East Khasi Hills district.

The life is normal in other parts of the hill station and the examinations will take place on Sunday as per earlier schedules.

Also Read | Army hold flag march in curfew-hit Shillong; rescue 500 people

The suspension of the internet on mobile services would, however, continue along with prohibiting the sale of petrol, diesel etc, in loose jerricans, bottles and any other containers to the public by all petrol pumps within the district.

"The situation is still tense but under control. The Army is on standby and will be deployed if the situation warrants. The district administration and the state police are making all efforts to restore peace and normalcy," Dkhar added further.

Also Read | Maharashtra: Communal clashes in Aurangabad over water, one killed

The stringent curfew was imposed in areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House from 4 am on Friday in the wake of that massive clash in Motphran, Mawkhar and adjoining area.

(With inputs from agencies)

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Two days after the violent clashes, Shilling, the capital city of Indias north-eastern state of Meghalaya, remained tense on Sunday with mobile internet and SMS services still being suspended.

Curfew was imposed in several localities of the city and Army carried a flag march in the area following clashes between the groups of local Khasi and Punjabi communities.

According to district officials, the clashes had begun after a bus handyman  a boy from Khasi community  was allegedly assaulted by a group of residents of Them Metor area following an altercation with a Punjabi woman.

The long-standing Khasi-Punjabi tussle and rumours on social media that the handyman had succumbed to injuries, added more fuel to the fire.

A group of bus drivers gathered at the Them Metor area to protest the rumoured killing of the handyman, prompting police to fire teargas shells to disperse them.

However, the handyman and three injured persons were taken to a hospital where they were released after being administered first-aid.

According to some local sources, the altercation between the boy and the woman took place on Thursday over the issue bus parking in front of a public water tap.

The small altercation led to the violence in the otherwise peaceful Shillong. At least 10 people, including a police officer, were injured in the clashes. Violent mob also set a house, a shop and five vehicles on fire.

Till noon, 10 locals were picked up while four were arrested by the police. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma reviewed the law and order situation in the afternoon after fresh clashes erupted between locals, armed with stones, and security forces in Motphran area of the city despite the curfew.

A magistrate at the site said about 100 special mob control team of the state police came under intermittent attacks from a group of about 100 activists armed with stones and catapults.

Meanwhile, several groups including the Khasi Students Union, the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) and the Hynniewtrep Youth Council demanded that those involved in the assault of local boys be punished and the illegal settlers at Them Metor evicted.

(With inputs from PTI)

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh on Saturday labelled the two-day farmer agitation as a publicity stunt, encouraging accusations of ainsensitivitya and of ainsultinga the farmers.

"Any organisation will have 500, 1,000, 2,000 or 40,000 farmers, and they have to do something unique to appear in the media," Singh said in Patna on Saturday.

He said that an agitation by a few farmers would have no impact as the country have a12 to 14 crore farmersa.

A total of 172 peasantsa bodies across the northern and western India have stopped selling their produce to the cities from June 1 to 10. Farmers have been dumping their produce on highways and roads, demanding loan waivers and higher minimum support price.

"When our farmers are committing suicide, this statement is really cruel," tweeted Shakeel Ahmed of the Congress condemning Singhas comment.

"No farmers are participating in the strike. Farmers are happy with the schemes of the chief minister," said Singhas Madhya Pradesh counterpart Balakrishna Patidar.

Union agriculture secretary SK Pattanayak has stated that the Centre is in talks with the states to deal with the issue rather than intervene directly.

A Police flogged protesters with dumped vegetables for blocking a highway in Jaipur on Friday, the farmers responded by throwing tomatoes.

Basavaraj Patil of Rashtriya Swabhiman, termed the ministers' statements as an insult to afarmersa.

"Ministers have a track record of calling agitating peasantas names such as 'anarchist', 'riotous' and so on," said Hannan Mollah of the CPM-supported All India Kisan Sabha.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's terrorist organisation Jama'at-ud-Da'wah will contest the upcoming Pakistan general elections under a dormant political party named Allaha-u-Akbar-Tehreek (AAT).

The decision to contest the election on the platform of a dormant political entity was taken in wake of hurdles being faced by Hafiz's Milli Muslim League in registration as a political party.

"Since the Milli Muslim League (MML) fails to get registered with the ECP it is going for this arrangement," one of the JuD members told a local English daily.

AAT was registered with the Election Commission of Pakistan by a local citizen named Ehsan. Several political parties have such dormant entities in Pakistan to fight elections in case of any issues related to their mainstream party.

Also Read | Nawaz Sharif admits Pakistan's role in 26/11 Mumbai attacks

"It was a kind of dormant party registered by a citizen Ehsan. There are several such parties registered with the ECP and such an arrangement is made ahead of the general elections if any mainstream party or organisation faces any issue or complication," he said.

MML President Saifullah Khalid also announced that they will back the AAT candidates, who will fight the July 25 elections on the symbol of a chair.

"We will play a role in the victory of those contesting on the symbol of a chair. To save Pakistan, patriotic people should be supported in the elections," he said.

Also Read | India, UK vow decisive action against terror groups worldwide

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.For Ahmed Qaheri, the law is his profession and cooking his passion. He is equally energetic, be it the courtroom or the kitchen.

A trained barrister, Qaheri strikes ultimate balance between passion and profession.

Qaheri is very much active on social media and has a huge number of followers on Instagram and to them, his nickname is Bahraini chef.

Qaheri also has a lot of social interests and he plans to start a channel to actively discuss the issues faced by the youth in the region. He also plans to start specialized cooking institutes in Istanbul and in some European countries.

I was one of the first active users of Instagram before the advent of latest smartphones. I began showcasing all my dishes along with sarcastic descriptions and it became an instant hit, especially among the youth. I also pen short comic stories based on experiences I gained from courtrooms under the title Diary of a lawyer.

Qaheri is also associated with Productive Families Programme  a brainchild of the Social Development Ministry.

I am one of the beneficiaries of the project. I prepare meals and sell them to people using loans offered under the scheme. Qaheri also shined as a cook at the Farmers Park organised by the Northern Municipality. The event had about 10,000 visitors and he would prepare special breakfasts and other dishes for many of them.MPs say the bill, if enacted, will bring disastrous impacts on lives of citizens

The Council of Representatives is set to hold a historical session on Tuesday to vote on the amended Retirement Law that has been urgently referred to it by the Government last week.

According to lawmakers, the new legislation could be the most significant law that the existing council votes in its four-year legislative term, which is scheduled to end on June 14.

It instructs to give absolute jurisdictions of determining pensions percentages, retirement age, pensions increment and other powers related to the regulation of retirement and pensions, that are currently governed by the law, to the Social Insurance Organisation (SIO). This includes public and military employees.

The law has become the talk of the town in the past few days and opened the doors wide for anticipations such as sudden reduction in pensions or raise in retirement age.

MPs, columnists, activists and netizens have voiced out their absolute rejection to the proposed law, describing it as an unwise decision that would have disastrous impacts on citizens livelihoods.

The matter has become the most discussed topic on Bahraini social media networks. Several activists and netizens claimed that a number of MPs wouldnt attend Tuesdays crucial session to avoid embarrassment with both the Government and the people of Bahrain.

Social Activist Hamad Al Kooheji has warned the MPs in a video message that went viral online, that they will lose their credibility and legitimacy as the representatives of citizens if they dont attend the meeting.

Ms Al Hayki, Service Committee Member, commented, This is a historical moment for the 2014-2018 council. I urge my fellow MPs to ensure their attendance and to vote against the law, as it directly affects citizens income.An Egyptian prosecutor ordered the detention of a Lebanese woman who posted a video on her Facebook page describing an incident of sexual harassment in Egypt, charging her with insulting Egyptians, state news agency MENA reported on Saturday.

Mona El Mazboh has been held since Thursday when she was arrested at Cairo airport at the end of her stay in Egypt after her outspoken video went viral on social media, security sources said. The prosecutors detention order was for four days

Last month, Egyptian police detained Amal Fathy, an activist, after she posted a video on social media criticising the government for failing to protect women against sexual harassment and over worsening living conditions.The doctors to whom former House of Representatives member Opeyemi Bamidele was rushed after he was shot in Ado Ekiti on Friday have ex...

He is now said to be in a stable condition after the five hour surgery.Bamidele was one of the six people who were hit when a mobile policeman unexpectedly opened fire in the direction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi at the partys secretariat, Ado Ekiti.Fayemi was, at the time, surrounded by many party faithfuls including Bamidele.He and the other victims were rushed to the hospital.He immediately went under the knife to remove the bullets.One of the bullets was removed from his abdominal region and the other from his leg.The APC insisted yesterday that Fridays shooting was all about eliminating Fayemi even as the police said it was a case of accidental discharge.But they said they have in their custody the policeman and a politician said to have taken him to the APC secretariat.It was gathered that Bamideles surgery was carried out by an eight man team including four consultants.It started at about 7pm and lasted till 12 midnight.Besides, Bamidele also received blood transfusion on admission to replenish the blood he had lost following the shooting.Early callers at the hospital to see him and the other victims were Dr. Fayemi; his wife, Bisi; legal icon, Aare Afe Babalola; former Ekiti State Governor, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo; APC gubernatorial aspirants, Senator Ayo Arise and Mr. Victor Kolade.Bamideles media aide, Ahmed Salami, yesterday dismissed speculations that he was in coma.Salami particularly debunked claims by Governor Ayo Fayoses media aide, Lere Olayinka that Bamidele was in critical condition and was in the process of being flown out of the country for medical attention.He described Olayinkas claim that Fayemi had not visited Bamidele as devilish information.He admitted that though Bamidele fell down and passed out when the bullets suddenly pierced his abdominal region and leg on Friday, he regained consciousness in no time.Salami said: The way he fell in the full glare of the crowd and party supporters fuelled the insinuation that he is still in coma.Let me assure our supporters in Ekiti and other concerned Nigerians that Bamidele is not in coma. He has regained consciousness and is fast recuperating due to prompt and the intensive medical treatment he received thereafter.It is true that Bamidele has passed through major surgeries and the bullets have been removed from his abdominal region and leg. We implore our supporters to be calm and be law abiding whilst the situation is under control.We appreciate our people for the outpouring of affection since the incident occurred and this underscored the strong bond of unity among the APC members and Ekiti people in general.We want to say that the shooting was very unfortunate and unwarranted in view of the decorous and peaceful ways our people comported themselves from Akure, Ondo State capital via Ikere and to Ado Ekiti.We charge the police authorities to investigate the immediate and remote causes of the shooting and bring whoever that was complicit to justice for a country that has respect for the sanctity of human lives to be attainable.Salami condemned Olayinka for allegedly politicizing the shooting incident.He said that unknown to many, Fayemi personally drove Bamidele to the hospital and stayed with him till 1:00am am in company of his wife.He warned that the sordid scenario surrounding the shooting of Opeyemi Bamidele should not be deployed for morbid politicking the writer of this wicked misinformation was widely known for.Bamidele is fast recuperating and stabilising and no one has ever contemplated flying him abroad for medical treatment, because the situation has not degenerated to this level.Let me also emphasize that Dr Kayode Fayemi personally drove him to the hospital and stayed with him till 1:00am today in company of his wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi.Dr Fayemi could not have displayed empathy for anyone more than he had done for his friend.The Ekiti State chairman of the APC, Chief Olajide Awe, declared yesterday that Fridays shooting was an assassination attempt on the life of Dr. Fayemi.He therefore asked the Police to investigate the incident and bring the culprits to book.Awe, at a press conference in Ado Ekiti asked the police authorities to unravel what the suspect was doing at the APC secretariat at a time he was supposed to be on duty elsewhere.He said: It was only God that saved the situation because our conclusion was that it was an assassination attempt on the life of our candidate, Dr. Fayemi.The culprit missed his target and shot Bamidele and other party members. We have visited Bamidele and other party members at the hospital and they are responding well to treatment.For Bamidele who was close to our candidate to have been injured like that, it was an orchestrated plan to snuff life out of our candidate.We believe that it wont be difficult for the Police to convince us that that man was not a paid agent. It is left for Police to unravel who was the man and who brought him to our secretariat.The Police took away the culprit and he is still in their custody and we believe he will make useful statements to them.The APC boss added that the party was suspending its campaign in honour of the injured persons and would unfold its full campaign programmes after their recovery.The State Police Command in a situation report yesterday said findings revealed that what happened was a case of accidental discharge on the part of the mobile police officer.It said: On Friday, 1st June, 2018, at about 1700 hours, the policeman accidentally shot Opeyemi Bamidele and one other, but he has been arrested.He is attached to 20 PMF, Ikeja, Lagos State, where he was posted on bank guard duties somewhere in Ikeja. The policeman came on illegal duty to Ekiti State.A politician, who conspired and removed the said policeman from where he was posted by his Squadron Commander and came to Ado-Ekiti with him for an unofficial reason has also been arrested.The victims of his accidental discharge are currently responding to treatment at the hospital, while the injured policeman is equally responding to treatment in protective custody.Ekiti police command has said the anti-riot policeman involved in the shooting at the gathering of bigwigs of All Progressives Congress (...

Ekiti police command has said the anti-riot policeman involved in the shooting at the gathering of bigwigs of All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday was on illegal duty.The policeman (name withheld) has been arrested along the politician who hired him from Lagos.Mr. Caleb Chukwuemeka, who released a preliminary report on the incident, said on Saturday that the mobile policemen was attached to 20 PMF, Ikeja, Lagos State where he was posted in bank guard duties somewhere in Ikeja.The policeman came on illegal duty to Ekiti StateA politician, who conspired and removed the said policeman from where he was posted by his Squadron Commander and came to Ado-Ekiti with him for an unofficial reasons has also been arrested.The police said findings had revealed that what happened was a case of accidental discharge on the part of a mobile police officer, he said.He confirmed: On Friday, 1st June, 2018 at about 1700 hours, the policeman accidentally shot Opeyemi Bamidele and one other, but he has been arrested. The victims of his accidental discharge are currently responding to treatment at the hospital, while the injured policeman is equally responding to treatment in the protective custody, the PPRO said.Meanwhile, the party has suspended its governorship campaigns scheduled to begin on Monday because of the incident.The shooting took place during a grand reception organized to welcome the partys gubernatorial candidate, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, from Abuja at the partys State secretariat in Ado Ekiti.Fayemi was a former governor of Ekiti and until his nomination as candidate, the minister of steel and solid minerals.The Chairman of the party, Chief Jide Awe, confirmed the postponement of the campaign.According to him, the suspension will continue until the police can guarantee the safety and security of the candidate and other members of the party.The party insisted that Fridays shooting was an attempt to take the life of Dr. Kayode Fayemi , but narrowly missed the bullets which later hit a former member of House of Representatives and one of the APC senatorial aspirants, Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele.The party also demanded thorough investigation of the matter by the police while outcome of the reports must be made public.It also maintained its earlier stand that the state government was its major suspect.The state government has however dismissed as baseless and unfounded, the claim by the APC that it had a hand in the incident.Mr. Lere Olayinka, the Special Assistant on Public Communication and New Media to the governor, described what happened at the APC secretariat as self-induced.He said that dragging the state government into it was a cheap ploy to shift blame and dent the image of government. (NAN)Unidentified gunmen in military uniform have abducted Madam Walama Otikiri, wife of a prominent chief and retired senior official of the...

Unidentified gunmen in military uniform have abducted Madam Walama Otikiri, wife of a prominent chief and retired senior official of the Nigerian Agip Oil Company.The gunmen stormed the coastal city of Town-Brass in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on Friday and seized the 60-year-old woman.The incident, which occurred about 11pm on Friday, reportedly threw the Sambo-Ama, Twon-Brass community into confusion with the gunmen shooting sporadically for over 30 minutes to scare residents.Community sources said the abduction of Madam Otikiri came a few days after an in-law to a member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Israel Sunny-Goli, was released from the kidnappers den.The gunmen, according to sources, entered the community by water with two speedboats and shot their way in and out of the community after the operation which lasted for about 45 minutes.Confirming the development in a statement issued on Saturday, Sunny-Goli condemned the abduction of one of his constituents, Otikiri, by unidentified gunmen.Sunny-Goli described the abduction as not only malicious and senseless, but utterly inhumane. He, therefore, called for her immediate release.The lawmaker said, Kidnapping has become the greatest monster bedevilling us as a people, and it is now imperative that we sit together at a round-table (conference) to discuss how best we can bring it into extinction.It is against this backdrop that I wish to call on security agencies to quickly swing into action in order to rescue the innocent woman from the hand of her abductors as well as bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice.When contacted, the spokesman for the Bayelsa State Police Command, Mr. Asinim Butswat, said he was not aware of the abduction.Butswat, however, promised to return the call after confirming from the police division in Twon-Brass. But as of the time of filing this report, he had yet to do so.Fifteen residents of Zamfara State have been killed in the latest raid by rampaging gunmen in the state.

Fifteen residents of Zamfara State have been killed in the latest raid by rampaging gunmen in the state.Hit this time is Zakuna village in Anka Local Government area, the police said yesterday.The mass murder came barely a week after the killing of 26 people in some communities in Gidangoga District of Maradun Local Government Area.The Public Relations Officer of the Zamfara State Police Command, DSP Muhammad Shehu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday that unknown gunmen attacked Zakuna in the early hours of Friday, killing residents.They also stole cows.According to him, a vigilance group known as Yansakai challenged the rustlers, forcing them to flee only for the bandits to reinforce and attack the village, killing 15 people.On receiving the reports of the attack, the police mobilised to the village and discovered 15 bodies, majority of who were Yansakai.The police have, however, deployed heavy security to the area to maintain peace and stability.Bush combing and rigorous patrol are being carried out throughout the area by the police to avoid further loss of lives. Shehu said that the Commissioner of Police, Mr Kenneth Ebrimson, had ordered discreet investigation on the latest incident to catch the perpetrators and bring them to justice.He pleaded with communities in the state not to relent in providing information to security operatives to end the deadly attacks.The state has seen repeated attacks in recent times that have left scores dead.The National Chairman of the African Democratic Party, Chief Ralph Nwosu, on Friday said he was offered oil well and billions of dollars...

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Party, Chief Ralph Nwosu, on Friday said he was offered oil well and billions of dollars as baits to destroy the party, following its adoption by former President Olusegun Obasanjos movement, the Coalition for Nigeria Movement.He disclosed this at the Greeen Legacy hall, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta while welcoming a former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2015 governorship election in Ogun State, Gboyega Isiaka, into the party.Nwosu, who was accompanied by the National Secretary of the party, Abdullahi Baba, did not however mention the names of those who offered him the inducement.While denying the allegation that the party was bought from him by Obasanjos coalition, he said he had spent over N600m to build the party.The ADC chairman also accused the All Progressives Congress of copying the partys slogan and manifesto through one of its coalitions, Congress for Progressive Change.He said he had approached President Muhammadu Buhari in 2006 shortly after registering the ADC, and advised him to join the party because of its rich manifesto and constitution but he rejected the offer only to copy the change slogan and the manifesto.Isiaka, while making the declaration, described the ADC as the third force that was morally conscripted to offer Nigerians an escape route from the failed promises of the status quo.He said he was prepared and ready to contest as a governorship candidate in the 2019 election in Ogun State, as he was qualified for the post.We are prepared to face anyone. I am running for this position because I have all the qualifications to be the governor of the state, he said.Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed has refuted police allegations of sponsoring, funding, arming or otherwise supporting political th...

Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed has refuted police allegations of sponsoring, funding, arming or otherwise supporting political thuggery in the state.The police high command had accused Governor Ahmed and Senate President Bukola Saraki of sponsoring political thugs allegedly linked to the Offa armed robbery incident.The governor in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications Dr. Muyideen Akorede described the allegations as false and rejected his alleged indictment by the Nigeria police or the armed robbery suspects in their custody.Governor Ahmed affirmed that while the state government has empowered several youth groups under its acclaimed Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) scheme neither he nor the statement government can be held liable for how beneficiaries utilize the credit. He therefore urged the police to complete their investigations and charge the suspects to court soon in line with the dictates of the rule of law.The statement reads: To set the records straight, the Kwara state government has a well known empowerment scheme under the Small And Medium Enterprises platform which is used to move women and youths groups into entrepreneurship.Consequently, several youth and women groups have benefitted from the scheme to date. However, at no point did the Kwara state government directly provide funds to any group known as Good Boys for any purpose.Similarly, if any of the beneficiaries chose to use the SME credit secured from the government to purchase a vehicle which was then alleged to have been used for an act of criminality, the Kwara State Governor and indeed the state government cannot be held liable for such actions since neither had prior knowledge of such intentions on beneficiaries part.The governor also rejects the police allegation of arming and funding the suspects for political thuggery or for any other activity as false and unfounded as thuggery or any other form of criminality is neither encouraged nor supported by the state government or its agents.World Bank Consultant and Provost, Abia State College of Education Technical Arochukwu, (ASCETA), Dr. Phillip Ntoh, has asked the federa...

World Bank Consultant and Provost, Abia State College of Education Technical Arochukwu, (ASCETA), Dr. Phillip Ntoh, has asked the federal government to strategically embark on quick interventions both short- term and long-term measures so as to mitigate the hardship Nigerians would face next year.Ntoh said that unless conscious efforts are made to address the situation, the plight of Nigerians would be worse in the coming year.His verdict is not unconnected with the grave security challenge being experienced in the Northeast where food production by farmers has been adversely affected by the Boko Haram terrorist group as well as the herdsmen onslaught.The former Abia State Commissioner for Finance observed further that the federal government should do all it can to diversify the economy as failure would continue to pose great danger on the poor condition of Nigerians.He said that if all the endowments of the country, both natural and human, were properly harnessed by its leadership there would be no reason for the poverty the people were experiencing.I see a situation where the country will run into deeper problem next year because there will be hunger in the land unless deliberate effort is made to redeem the mistake.I am saying this because of the serious security challenge we are having. The Northeast has been devastated and this has horribly affected food production and food security, he said.The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Saturday declared Mr Debo Ogundoyin, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Pa...

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Saturday declared Mr Debo Ogundoyin, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party( PDP ), as the winner of the Ibarapa East State Constituency by- election in Oyo State.Announcing the result, the returning officer, Dr Ayodeji Omole of the University of Ibadan, said Ogundoyin polled 6,277 votes to defeat Mr Olukunle Adeyemo of the All Progressives Party (APC), who came second with 4,619 votes.Omole said Adebodun Adepoju of Accord Party scored 2,859 votes while Rasheedat Oyewumi of Fresh Democratic Party garnered 33 votes.Others were Adekemi Raheem of Hope Democratic Party, 14 votes; Grace Olarinde of Nigerian Peoples Congress, 60 votes and Matins Adeyemo of Mega Party of Nigeria, 9 votes.He stated that 14,332 voters were accredited and voted out of the 44,077 registered. Total votes cast are 14,179 while valid votes are 13,871 and 308 votes were rejected, he said.He declared Ogundoyin as the winner  having scored the highest votes as stipulated in the electoral law.The by-election that was held in 140 polling units in all of the 10 wards across the constituency was necessitated by the death of Michael Adeyemo, the occupant of the seat in the State House of Assembly, on April 27.Mr Adedeji Soyebi, the National Electoral Commissioner for Oyo, Osun and Ekiti, said the election was successful and commended the people of the constituency for conducting themselves peacefully. We had little issue with card readers unlike previous elections because we used enhanced smart card readers now,  Soyebi said.He also commended security personnel deployed to the area for their efforts in ensuring a peaceful and violence-free exercise.A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN), who monitored the election in Eruwa and Lanlate, reports that there was heavy presence of security operatives led by Mr Abiodun Odude, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police.Polling officials and election materials had arrived early in all polling units while accreditation and voting started on schedule in all the polling units visited.Only the three agents of Accord, APC and PDP were present at polling units visited in Lanlate and Eruwa, although seven political parties participated in the exercise.The turnout of voters, however, was low in Ward 6, polling units 001  005, Sango area, LA Primary school , Ward 05, polling units 001-006 as well as other polling units visited.Mr Hamza Adamu, the presiding officer in Ward 09, polling unit 002, Lanlate, said the exercise was peaceful and hitch-free.Mrs Abigael Folorunsho, the PDP agent at Ward 05, unit 002, Eruwa, Mrs Abigael Folorusho, attributed the low turnout to the perceived likelihood of violence as being speculated.Folorunsho, however, commended INEC for providing a level playing ground for all participating political parties.(NAN)Unknown gunmen on Friday night invaded Kura Falls community in Gashish District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, kil...

Unknown gunmen on Friday night invaded Kura Falls community in Gashish District, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing three residents.The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, Mr. Terna Tyopev, who confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Jos said the attack occurred on Friday night and yesterday morning.We received information this morning at about 7 a.m. that residents of Kura Falls were attacked at about 9:30 p.m. and the early hours of Saturday by unknown gunmen, he said.This resulted in the death of three persons identified as Dawala Bullet, 30; Fidelis Richard, 31; and Iliya Doro, 60.We have mobilised to the area to ensure normalcy and quell any further attack and breach of the law, Tyopev said.The PPRO said investigations were ongoing to track and arrest the perpetrators who must be made to face Justice.The Federal Government has spent $9 billion on infrastructure in two years, Minister of Information and Culture Lai Mohammed said yesterd...

The Federal Government has spent $9 billion on infrastructure in two years, Minister of Information and Culture Lai Mohammed said yesterday.He also said the nation attracted over $6 billion capital investment and that the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) is rated as one of the best six in the world.According to the minister, Nigeria is safe for for tourism and investment.Mohammed spoke at a news conference in Abuja on the 61st meeting of the UNWTO-CAF which begins today in Abuja.The news conference was attended by Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili.Expected at the conference will be attended by 26 ministers and 498 delegates from across the world.He said: The government has spent about $9 billion on infrastructure in the last two years.This has never been done before.Please permit me to most sincerely thank President Muhammadu Buhari for his invaluable support, without which this event would not have been possible. Thanks to the successes recorded by this administration in fighting insecurity, we are holding this global meeting here.Four years ago, hosting this event in Abuja would have been a pipe dream, considering the level of insecurity. Remember that Boko Haram carried out many deadly attacks in this capital city. That is now history.Nigeria is safe and secure for its citizens and for foreign tourists and investors. Whatever pockets of criminal acts that exist are being addressed squarely.All the ingredients of tourism are here. This administration will promote tourism religiously.It is common knowledge that culture drives tourism. We will, therefore, use the occasion of this meeting to showcase the rich and diverse culture of Nigeria. Some spectacular cultural events have thus been lined up for the meeting.The minister confirmed that 26 ministers and 498 delegates from the country and abroad will attend the meeting in Abuja.He added: We are all set to host the best UNWTO-CAF Meeting ever! All the necessary preparations have been made to ensure this. The main committee, as well as the many sub-committees, have worked tirelessly to make this event a huge success. We also expect an impressive attendance.As at Sunday, we have confirmation from 166 foreign delegates, 26 ministers and 332 Nigerian delegates, excluding the gentlemen of the press. Several delegates have arrived and many more are expected in today.As you must be aware by now, the theme of the meeting is Tourism Statistics: A catalyst for development. That theme fits very well into our quest to improve on our tourism statistics for planning purposes and the ultimate development of our tourism.Pololikashvili said: We will use tourism for peace and creation of jobs.We are working towards seamless travel, investment, innovation, sustainable development worldwide, and security.As the new Secretary-General, I am not a magician, but I know we need to sit down and work out how to promote seamless travel in Africa.A female presidential aspirant on the platform of Alliance for a New Nigeria (ANN) Dr Elishama Ideh has stated she is challenging Presid...

A female presidential aspirant on the platform of Alliance for a New Nigeria (ANN) Dr Elishama Ideh has stated she is challenging President Muhammadu Buhari for the number one seat because Nigeria needs a new direction and vibrant leadership.She said the challenges facing the country were attributable to prolonged crisis of leadership and dysfunctional governance arising from weak and non- existent institutions.Addressing reporters in Abuja, she also fingered flawed constitutional frameworks that allow the powerful get away with serious breaches as another reason for the nations challenges.Contemporary Nigeria, according to Ideh, needs a different kind of leadership that combines integrity with intelligence and a deep understanding of the implications of the 21st global political economy.She said: Nigeria needs a leader who combines a no- nonsense strength of character and the moral authority to get things done in an efficient and timely manner with the compassion of a mother for her children as well as for the weak and the down trodden in our society.At this critical point in her journey, Nigeria needs a leader whose own personal life journey in the service of God and man is capable of inspiring a generation of Nigerians to imbibe habits and carry out actions of distinction.She further said she has seen faces of Nigerias past, present and future, adding she has strived to reach for workable solutions to problems and challenges peculiar to the time and place of each her engagement.Ideh promised to reform the nations revenue generation and allocation structure, including federal tax regimes if elected President.Seven teenagers were arrested and one Hamilton Township officer injured after a fight broke out in the food court of the Hamilton Mall on Saturday night.

The fight started as security officers were escorting individuals who were gathering in the food court out of the mall, the Hamilton Township Police Department said in a statement.

"Chairs and other debris began to be thrown in the food court area," the statement said. "Additionally, multiple individuals began to engage in several fights."

Posted by John Snyder on Saturday, June 2, 2018

Five teenage boys and two adults -- Amir Vaughn, 18, and Theron Parrish-Jordan, 18, both of Mays Landing -- were charged with disorderly conduct, police said.

One Hamilton Township police supervisor was assaulted during the altercation and was quickly treated for his injury, according to authorities.

Hamilton Mall Marketing Manager Crystal Rodriguez said the fight only involved a few people but large groups of teenagers gathered around to watch.

Saturday's incident was unrelated to plans discovered on social media earlier in the week for a fight at the mall, according to Rodriguez. The two people who talked about fighting at the mall were not present on Saturday night, she said.

Mall security, Hamilton Township police and several other area law enforcement agencies responded to the mall to get the crowd under control. Rodriguez said officials closed the mall at 8 p.m. -- an hour early -- to ensure safety of other shoppers.

Some shoppers turned to social media to describe the situation:

Really just feared for my life at the Hamilton mall   Jessica Denneny (@JessieD_28) June 3, 2018

Please review your policies so last nights fight incident does not happen again. I was their with my 14 year old , 6... Posted by Amie Waitt Nardone on Sunday, June 3, 2018

Authorities said the fight is still under investigation, and that anyone identified as having been involved could face additional charges. Police have asked that anyone with information or video of the incident contact Detective Mark Perna at 609-625-2700, ext. 542, or message Hamilton Township Police on Facebook with the footage.

"The security team handled it really well, as quickly as possible," Rodriguez said. "Safety and security are our top priority. We want to be a community center, a place people feel safe when they want to come shop."

Paige Gross may be reached at pgross@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @By_paigegross. Find NJ.com on Facebook.Q. I just turned 60 need to write a will. I checked with elder law attorneys and it's so expensive. I need to protect my house in case I have to stay in a long-term care facility and I want to leave all my assets to my two girls. Will any lawyer be able to do that with a reasonable price?

- Need help

A. What you may consider reasonable may not be.

Working with an elder law or estate planning attorney may be one of the best investments you ever make. You need to make sure all your documents are in order, and unfortunately, it's not a simple thing to do on your own.

By having properly prepared estate planning documents, you're going to benefit yourself and your family or beneficiaries both emotionally and financially, said Catherine Romania, an estate planning attorney with Witman Stadtmauer in Florham Park.

She said you need at a minimum an advance health care directive, also known as a living will. This is a document that appoints an agent and provides guidelines for your agent with respect to your healthcare should you be unable to act.

You also need a power of attorney, which appoints an agent to handle your financial affairs during your lifetime.

Finally, you need a last will and testament, the document that governs the administration of your estate following your death.

"For example, if during your life you should become incapacitated without a power of attorney and/or a living will, then it is likely that a guardianship proceeding will be required to appoint a guardian to handle your financial and personal affairs," Romania said.

She said this proceeding is generally expensive because of the appointment of an independent attorney for the alleged incapacitated person, as well as the attorney for the guardian, and the two doctors required to examine the alleged incapacitated person and prepare affidavits for the court, all of whom must be paid.

Then, the will.

When you have a will you can waive the requirement for your executor to post a bond, which is generally necessary in the case where there is no will, Romania said.

"The amount of the bond is based on the value of the probate estate and will be determined by the Surrogate," she said. "Bond premiums can be costly and obtaining a bond from a bonding company can sometimes cause a delay in administering an estate."

Moreover, she said, by having a will, you more likely ensure your assets are disposed of in the manner you want, and administered by the person you choose, instead of by the intestacy statute.

Romania said another aspect of being prepared is planning financially for long-term care, which you said is a concern.

This may include purchasing long-term care insurance or structuring your financial assets in order to qualify sooner for Medicaid, which is government assistance based on financial and medical need. Once again, such preparedness rewards your beneficiaries both financially and emotionally, Romania said.

"The fee charged by an experienced estate planning and/or elder law attorney to prepare for and/or reduce the risk or cost of a number of potential scenarios is likely less than the cost of a guardianship proceeding or one month of private pay in a nursing home," Romania said.

Like we said, a good investment.

Email your questions to Ask@NJMoneyHelp.com.

Karin Price Mueller writes the Bamboozled column for NJ Advance Media and is the founder of NJMoneyHelp.com. Follow NJMoneyHelp on Twitter @NJMoneyHelp. Find NJMoneyHelp on Facebook. Sign up for NJMoneyHelp.com's weekly e-newsletter.London Bridge attack: Memorial to mark one-year anniversary

BBC News3 June 2018The UK's determination to overcome the threat of terrorism "has never been stronger", Theresa May has said a year on from the London Bridge attack.A service remembering the victims will be held at Southwark Cathedral later - one of a number of events taking place to mark the anniversary of the attack.Eight people died when three men drove into pedestrians on London Bridge and then stabbed people in Borough Market.There will also be a national minute's silence to commemorate the victims.It comes as the Home Office has said the UK faces a severe threat from Islamist terrorism for at least another two years.The government is preparing to unveil a strengthened counter-terrorism strategy on Monday.The private service at Southwark Cathedral will honour the emergency services' response to last year's attack on 3 June, as well as remembering the people who died and the 48 who were injured.Politicians are among those who have been invited to the 15:00 BST service, along with relatives of the victims, who will light candles during the ceremony.There will be a short procession afterwards from the cathedral to Southwark Needle, at the corner of London Bridge, which will end with the national minute's silence at 16:30 BST.The hashtag #LondonUnited was projected onto London Bridge on Saturday night and will be done so again on Sunday.The father of the only British victim of the attack - James McMullan - says he was not involved in preparations for Sunday's commemoration service.Simon McMullan told the BBC: "We haven't been contacted by anybody. We haven't been approached by any of the authorities."What we got was a letter which laid out what was going to be done. So we weren't asked, we were told."He also wanted to put up a plaque to his son, but wasn't given permission.Southwark Council says it has tried to arrange a "thoughtful and fitting" commemoration with "limited resources".Ahead of the day's commemorative events, the prime minister said the "stories of courage" from that night will always stay with her.Mrs May highlighted Geoff Ho, who was stabbed in the neck while trying to protect his friends, and Ignacio Echeverria, who died trying to defend a woman by using his skateboard.She said: "Today we remember those who died and the many more who were injured, and also pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened or came to the aid of others."She added: "My message to those who seek to target our way of life or try to divide us is clear - our resolve to stand firm and overcome this threat together has never been stronger."London Mayor Sadiq Khan said he was "proud" of the way the city had responded to terror attacks, by "standing united in defiance and staying true to our values and way of life".Meanwhile, Home Secretary Sajid Javid, who will attend Sunday's memorial service, is to announce a range of steps aimed at boosting the authorities' counter-terrorism approach.The new strategy, which is launched on Monday, is expected to include plans for MI5 to share its intelligence more widely.The Home Office said: "We expect the threat from Islamist terrorism to remain at its current, heightened level for at least the next two years, and that it may increase further."We assess the threat from extreme right-wing terrorism is growing."Loading...

By Erin Petenko | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

New Jersey's population hit a major milestone this year: 9 million residents, a number it's been flirting with since 2013. And with the release of the latest population estimates from the Census, some cities should be celebrating, too. Hudson County is booming, Central Jersey is steadily thriving and Newark and Jersey City are battling it out for the title of largest city in the state.

Those gains come in stark contrast with far North and far South Jersey, where rural populations are seeing steep drops. And the Shore has yet to bounce back from Hurricane Sandy, if it ever will.

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1. Hudson County is growing out of control.

Hudson County gained 55,000 residents between 2010 and 2017, at a rate nearly four times higher than the rest of New Jersey. Three of its towns  Harrison, Weehawken and Secaucus  were in the top 10 municipalities for population growth this decade.

Other top gainers? Tiny Lebanon in Hunterdon County, along with Woolwich, Riverdale, Wood-ridge, Mount Arlington, Raritan and Monroe.

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2. Jersey City may not be the "second city" for much longer.

In 2014, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop boldly claimed that Jersey City would overtake Newark in population by 2016.

Fulop may have been a bit optimistic. While the Jersey City population skyrocketed last year, it's still 14,000 residents behind. But that gap is closing.

If Jersey City and Newark continue to grow at the same rate they did last year  a big assumption, since Jersey City's growth rate may prove unsustainable  New Jersey's second city will become its first in 2023. So if the Yellowstone supervolcano hasn't destroyed the Earth by then, maybe Steve Fulop will finally hold a city-wide block party.

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3. But Lakewood is the king of boomtowns

While Jersey City gained the most residents in 2017, Lakewood in Ocean County had the biggest percent change of the 25 largest municipalities in New Jersey. The town is well-known for its high fertility rate and its young population, where the median age is only 20. Other Ocean County in the area fared well, with Lacey, Ocean Township, and Jackson gaining residents at a rate higher than the rest of the state.

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4. The rest of the Shore has not bounced back.

While Ocean County has seen relative increases, the Shore as a whole has yet to recover from Hurricane Sandy. Monmouth, Atlantic and Cape May have all lost residents steadily since then, egged on by Atlantic City's fiscal woes and Cape May's aging population.

Ocean County itself is masking its own issues with its Lakewood boom. Towns without much inland space have mostly declined or stayed at the same population level compared with 2010.

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5. And rural areas are really struggling.

Municipalities with a more rural population on average lost 2 percent of their population between 2010 and 2017, and smaller towns tended to lose population as well. Rural areas have struggled with the increasing economic shift toward retail, trade and technical jobs as well as an aging population.

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(Aristide Economopoulos/The Star-Ledger)

Read more NJ.com data reporting

The 25 N.J. school districts with the richest residents

Why N.J. was just named the best state in the U.S. to raise kids

Good luck finding a home in these 15 N.J. real estate marketsBAYONNE -- Four years of hard work paid off for seniors at Marist High School on Sunday morning.

The school hosted its 61st graduation ceremony in the James J. Boyle Memorial Gymnasium.

Vinnie Vaca was named this year's valedictorian and will attend Rutgers University in the fall. Class salutatorian, Jesse Resurreccion, is going to Saint Peter's University.

The Marist High School Class of 2018 was collectively accepted to nearly 200 colleges and universities across the country, including Penn State, Virginia State, and Catholic University. More than $6 million in scholarship money was also awarded to the class.

Check out photos from today's ceremony in the gallery above.Among The Atlantic's fine spate of recent coverage grappling with inequitable national education policies (and their effects), "An Unusual Idea for Fixing School Segregation" examines a proposal by Thomas Scott-Railton, a Yale Law School graduate, that would reduce segregation in grammar and high schools through a new approach to college-admissions processes.

The Atlantic piece notes Scott-Railton got the idea for his proposal after listening to a radio report about affluent white parents in a St. Louis suburb who were railing against the possibility of black students from a poorer predominantly black district. An excerpt:

"Many of the white parents' fears were prejudice, plain and simple. But Scott-Railton knew that the parents were right about one thing: Integrating the school could mean that the school's rating would drop ... Universities tend to give a leg up to affluent, high test-scoring suburban schoolswhich then incentivizes wealthier parents to seek out segregation. But what if those incentives could be changed?

"And thus Scott-Railton's idea was born: to take demographics of schools into account in college admissionsgiving priority to applicants who attended schools with a certain threshold of low-income students (say, above 40 percent)...."

Read more about this idea at The Atlantic, along with "Colleges Are No Match for American Poverty," which is about one Texas community college's attempt to thoroughly address the needs of students undergoing financial hardship.By Craig McCarthy | NJ Advance Media

In the back of the Allstar Family Fun & Events Complex in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, past the skeeball tables and arcade games, dozens of dealers are set up in the 48,000-square-foot space, and all of them are trying to put a firearm in my hand.

Handguns are locked in glass cases and a handful of matte-black AR-15-like rifles, advertised as Jersey-legal, sit innocently on stands pointing out toward potential buyers.

There are hundreds of bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles and shotguns tied-off with zip ties, all carefully laid-out and meticulously arranged on sturdy folding tables, topped with camo, black, red or blue tablecloths.

The sellers and I talk about scary guns, the stupid laws that limited accessorizing rifles and how not feeling a black holster on their belt makes them feel unsettled, unsafe or anxious.

And I listen to it all  the unsolicited takes on the presidency of Donald Trump, the headlines that have dominated news cycle after news cycle, Russians and the deep state.

Then I saw it: A flamethrower.

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A flamethrower for sale at the Gettysburg gun show over Memorial Day Weekend. (Craig McCarthy | NJ Advance Media)

It's $999 and advertised as legal in 48 states with no permit or background check.

So, I could buy this right now? What would I use it for? Clearing my walkway of snow in the winter? How quickly would the cops be called on me if I gave up my snow shovel for this dragon-breath device? (More on that later)

Cash and carry reads a sign below a blue light-up display near the flamethrower. A promo video makes the extended-reach torch look like a piece of Iron Mans first crude suit, shooting flames up to 35-feet.

This is my first experience at a gun show.

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via GIPHY

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Are you coming over to our side?

The expo is about a 3-hour drive from North Jersey to a crowded Gettysburg on Memorial Day Weekend. Civil War reenactors walk the streets, sweaty and tired from an early morning battle, but still donning their dark blue or gray garbs  wool trousers held up with leather-tipped suspenders and unbuttoned sack coats.

Why'd I go? I feel undereducated on the pro-gun side of the contentious national debate, so I convinced my editors to let me take the drive.

I really want to understand the gun culture.

At the show, I tell the sellers, I am shooting a gun for the first time next week."

So, you are coming over to our side? asks Bill Green, one of the vendors who welcomes me.

Oh, youre going to love it, Norsela Cole says with a smile before reminiscing about the first time she shot a gun: her husband's .22 in their backyard.

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via GIPHY

This is a medium-sized show, just a few miles from the historic downtown, a short drive that cuts through the battlefields to an expo center where a few hundred tables are set up.

The first booth that welcomes guests is adorned with the now-iconic MAGA hats scattered among dozens of gun targets. Free with each purchase is your choice of a pro-Republican or an anti-Hillary door sign, similar to the ones that were shared, praised and decried on Facebook during the election.

"Be polite, be professional Have a plan to kill everyone you meet! James Mad Dog Mattis," reads one.

"Americans are dreamers too," another states with a photo of Trump flanked by House Speaker Paul Ryan and Vice President Mike Pence

This table had front billing at the event, set-up before the National Rifle Association's booth  a telling mark of how this rhetoric has become embedded in the firearm enthusiast community.

And they arent shy about sharing, even when I don't ask.

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(Craig McCarthy | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com)

Sure, there are good people that are immigrants, Green says offhand as we discuss the guns laws in New Jersey and other states. I wouldnt buy a house without a front door, thats why we need a wall.

People are not happy unless they are causing trouble, Delbert Darr chimes in after Jack Shuttleworth tells me hed stop visiting Gettysburg if one Confederate statue is taken down.

Mueller is a political patsy hes in the Clinton camp, John Tidd says following Dave Macleanns matter-of-fact mention of the deep state.

It was the antithesis of Childish Gambinos country featured in his recent music video. This is their America, where inner-city criminals, mentally disturbed shooters and liberals are vilified, shouldering the blame for limiting their access to firearms.

To them, the firearm laws are nonsensical, created by politicians who dont understand guns or the community that embraces the Second Amendment. They tell me they just want the government to leave them alone and believe that everyone should be able to do what they want in their own home.

Quickly, our conversations all turn to every conservative talking point from the last two years with little hostility to the institution I write for  surprisingly because of the attacks on fake news.

I tell them I just want to experience a gun show and find out what all the hullabaloo is about since the "Republic of Jersey"  the gun culture's nickname for the Garden State due to its strict guns laws  has essentially banned the events.

But I have questions, too: Can I buy a firearm at a gun show being a Jersey resident? If so, what could I buy? Can I bring it home today? Are there background checks? What about that flamethrower?

And they answer them.

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First burning question (pun intended): Could I have bought the flamethrower?

Yes.

Only Maryland and California have laws regulating the incendiary devices. There are no background checks required or ID cards for flamethrowers and I could have taken one home with me that day (but I wasnt sure if my editors would have let me expense it).

These devices made national headline earlier this year when Ellon Musk announced the Boring Company's flamethrower, which was priced at $500.

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Craig McCarthy | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

How are gun show sales regulated in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, gun shows are an extension of a licensed sellers shop.

You are in my store right now, John Tidd says.

Background checks are required by law for every purchase from a business with a Federal Firearms License, often referred to as an FFL.

Sellers are responsible for knowing all the different laws in each state. They say, if they sold one in error, they would be tasked with retrieving the gun from that buyer from where ever they live.

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What about the gun show loop hole?

Tidd and MaCleann both say while it's possible to get a gun from a private seller, not a licensed seller, at gun shows that person would be barred from future events by the promoter.

Licensed sellers are mandated by federal law to perform background checks on all gun sales, but private-sale regulations are handled differently state by state. This created what has been dubbed the "gun show loophole" in which private sellers use gun shows to reach customers on the secondary market.

Green says he would be surprised that if asked, no more than two or three sellers, of all the sellers at the Sunday show, would say they don't require background checks.

It appears every seller was performing background checks.

One buyer is heard saying to a dealer, Oh, the background check. Are you a criminal? No. Are you sure? Yes.

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What about handguns?

Handguns are a bit more complicated. There are two ways I can buy a handgun here.

I can show the seller my FID, drivers license and agree to a background check, which is run through the New Jersey State Police. Then, the FFL would contact an FFL in New Jersey where I want the gun to be sent. The gun would be either overnighted or sent two-day priority mail to the Jersey FFL to legally sign the gun over to me. It can only be sent through the United States Postal Service.

Its meant to limit any face-to-face interaction, Ridd says.

That process is frustrating, and sellers like Brian Martin, refuse to sell handguns to anyone outside of Pennsylvania.

Because the nature of the business, I just choose to avoid, Martin says, explaining he has run into instances where the buyer would lie, say that the gun was received or change his or her mind about the sale.

Another way to buy that handgun is to have a Jersey FFL add me as one of the businesses' representatives, take their paperwork, my FID and drivers license to the gun show and buy the firearm. After a background check, I could drive it home (legally stored in the car) and the FFL could fill out the appropriate paperwork at home.

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Could I buy a long-gun (shotgun or rifle)?

Yes, if I had already obtained my firearms identification card from my municipal police department, I could buy a long-gun on the spot.

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Does that include AR-15-styled rifles?

Yes, as long as they were customized to meet New Jersey regulations. AR-15s are banned in name only. According to sellers, you can purchase the rifle as long as it does not have:

a magazine that holds more than 15 rounds

a muzzle flash hider

an adjustable stock

Green, who makes AR-like rifles, tells me it isnt even worth it for him to cater to such restrictive laws, and has stopped making Jersey-legal rifles.

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When I leave, I feel as if I understand the gun culture more, at least in this area, after the open and friendly conversations.

They all agree background checks are important, and they agree there's an issue that needs to be addressed with gun ownership and mental health.

Most believe the Second Amendment is being infringed upon with the regulations in many states and they don't agree with some of the restrictions, they say just make their business more complicated.

They say they don't have the answers to address issues from both sides, but there should be a dialogue.

They all say, however, in this current political climate, it doesn't seem like anyone is listening or trying to understand each other's views.

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Craig McCarthy may be reached at 732-372-2078 or at CMcCarthy@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @createcraig and on Facebook here. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tipsJohn Clement's three years of combat took him through North Africa to Sicily and finally to the D-Day landing on the Normandy shore code-named Omaha Beach.

Paul Petro's very first action was the same day, June 6, 1944, when he landed just west on Utah Beach.

For Clement, the battle-experienced Army infantry sergeant, D-Day was the final act of his World War II campaign.

For Petro, the green Army engineer, it was just the beginning.

For both, the war was nothing heroic. Just expected.

"We were patriots, that's all," Petro, 94, said matter-of-factly. "We put our lives on the line for this country. That's what it was all about. That's all. What else could you do?"

Clement, 99, was even more succinct.

"I wanted to forget about it and move on with my life," he said during a phone interview from an assisted living center in Bradenton, Fla. "It's just what we did."

All his war memorabilia - his medals, uniform and paper memorabilia - are in New Jersey, held dear by his son, Bill Clement of Kinnelon.

"He kept it all in a shoebox," Bill Clement said.

In that shoe box is the story of one man's personal heroics, and how that story fits into the greater mission, as evidenced by a letter from Gen. Dwight Eisenhower.

MORE: Recent Mark Di Ionno columns

Clement fought as John Clemente, raised as the adopted son of Italian immigrants, but he dropped the 'e' from his name after he returned from the war.

"I was a kid from Brooklyn who never went anywhere," he said. "Next thing I know I'm on the Queen Mary (converted to a troop ship) going to England. And then, suddenly, I was fighting in all these places in Africa."

And fight, he did. He was awarded a Bronze Star with a V-clasp for valor in combat, and an oak leaf cluster, which indicates multiple combat action worthy of Bronze Star awards.

One incident was in Tunisia, when his unit was trapped and under heavy enemy fire. According the Army citation, Clement left "his spot of comparative safety and continually exposed himself to the ever-flying shrapnel" to find an exit. "Clemente's cool unhesitating heroism unquestionably ... saved the lives of many of his comrades."

In Sicily, he manned a cannon to stop a German convoy descending a mountain toward his platoon. From a stealth position, Clement took matters into his owns hands.

"I saw this group of about 10 officers, so I loaded in an anti-personnel shell and they disappeared," he said. "Then I loaded-in an armor-shell and hit the lead truck. If you hit the first one, the rest couldn't move."

As a member of the 16th Infantry Regiment, which was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division (The Big Red One) during the war, Clement was moved from the fierce fighting in Northern African and Sicily from the end of 1942 through 1943, to England to prepare for D-Day.

"We got on ships and thought we were going home," he said.

Instead, he began the intense training for the D-Day invasion.

In his shoebox of medals, Clement also kept the letter from Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower given to every man about to fight at Normandy.

"You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have

striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. The

hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you.

In company with our brave Allies and brothers-in-arms on

other Fronts, you will bring about the destruction of the German war

machine, the elimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples of

Europe, and security for ourselves in a free world."

When Clement landed on Omaha Beach, he knew his division was expected to press over the cliffs and continue the assault through France and Belgium and into Germany to end the war.

"But it didn't work out that way for me," he said.

He was hit almost immediately, and his right hand was badly injured.

"They (the medical people) said, 'Which hand is your trigger hand?' I said, 'My right.' They said, 'Well, you're of no use to us now.'

"I didn't want to go but I was evacuated out."

In the shoebox, he also kept a piece of the jagged shrapnel extracted from his hand.

Asked about the human carnage and chaos of the landing, Clement simply said, "It was a real mess. Some things, well, you just don't know how guys had the guts to do it."

He spoke of one Army engineer, driving up and down the beach, pulling armored vehicles out of the sandy ditches.

"He was on this tractor, exposed to enemy fire, just as cool as could be, like he was plowing a field in Kansas somewhere."

Petro was a welder with the 249th Combat Engineer Battalion, who was trained at Fort Belvoir in Virginia and shipped to England in preparation for D-Day.

"General Eisenhower was a smart man," he said. "He knew the secret to success for any Army was a supply line. My job was to weld the pipes for the gasoline lines after the landing."

His unit landed at Utah Beach early in the fighting.

"It was terrible," he said. "All around us, there were kids with their arms blown off, or dead.

I remember all the screaming and crying. Boys crying for their mothers.

"War is a terrible, terrible thing. It doesn't solve anything. It just makes more problems."

Petro's unit moved forward, building everything from gas lines to railroad bridges to keep up the assault on Germany.

"We built three railroad bridges over the Rhine in three weeks," he said. "It was amazing."

Clement was flown home because of his combat points, attained by how much action he saw.

"I was in Times Square on V-J Day," he said. "That was wonderful."

Petro came home on the same kind of troop ship that brought him. He, and thousands of others.

After the war, both men led regular lives in New Jersey. Petro kept welding, Clement became the transportation and distribution manager of a large food company.

They quietly raised their families, Clement in Old Tappan and Petro in Lake Hiawatha.

"Some people loved war, loved being a soldier," Clement said. "I just wanted to get on with my life."

Said Petro, "I came home and that was that."

Bill Clement said his father never spoke about the war until his own sons began asking questions.

"I would listen outside the door as he told his grandsons these stories," he said. "I learned more about what he did by reading books. Over time, he told me more and more."

Next year will be the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. John Clement will be 100.

Bill Clement said the family plans to commemorate both with a trip to Normandy.

"That's if I make it," John Clement said. "But I think I will."

Mark Di Ionno may be reached at mdiionno@starledger.com. Follow The Star-Ledger on Twitter @StarLedger and find us on Facebook.Bystander videos of violent police encounters are never pretty, whether police are using compliance holds, fists, or weapons in making an arrest.

But in recent months, two videos depicting New Jersey cops slugging arrestees in the head have shocked viewers.

Most recently, a 20-year-old Philadelphia woman was punched in the head twice by a Wildwood police officer trying to arrest her for underage drinking on the beach.

Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano, Jr. said the woman, Emily Weinman, assaulted the officer and he "did what he had to do."

Police in Camden are not defending the actions of Officer Nicholas Romantino, who struck 32-year-old Edward Minguela 12 times in the head during a Feb. 22 arrest that was captured on surveillance video. Police thought he had a gun, but no gun was found.

The Camden County Prosecutor's Office said it won't charge Romantino, but the police department has called the video "disturbing" and Romantino remains on unpaid leave as they investigate.

Weinman's attorney did not say if she had any head trauma, but Minguela's attorney said he suffered a concussion from the blows.

The incidents have raised questions about why officers are aiming blows at subjects' heads, knowing that they could cause concussions or even more serious head injuries.

Rutgers criminal justice professor Wayne Fisher chaired the New Jersey Police Training Commission when it issued the state's use of force guidelines, and he said no part of the body is off limits when an officer decides force is required to make an arrest. But the force has to be reasonable given the circumstances.

"Police officers have the obligation to use only the amount of force necessary to accomplish their objective," he said.

"A punch in the head can inflict serious injury so officers need to be judicious in their choice of action," he said. "But it can be sometimes necessary if an officer is in serious risk of being injured."

Wendy Berk, vice president of the nonprofit Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey, didn't comment on police tactics but said that any blow to the head could lead to a brain injury. Seventy-five percent of brain injuries are considered mild, including concussions, but they can still have serious effects.

She said a person might have headaches, nausea, an inability to concentrate, depression or drowsiness after a concussion.

"Oftentimes those symptoms can subside," she said. "But even a mild brain injury can cause long term" physical and mental effects.

Jon Shane, a retired Newark police captain who teaches at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, said that officers are trained on which areas of the body are the most sensitive or have a greater risk of injury.

"You're taught that there are red, green and yellow areas," he said Friday.

Green areas are muscular spots, often on the arms and legs, where strikes or even baton blows would hurt but are less likely to cause long-term injury. The groin is an example of a yellow spot, where the risk of injury is higher.

The head is a red area, he said.

The training is meant to guide officers so they don't cause injury unintentionally, but it's not a rule.

"There's nothing that says a strike to the head should be the last option... It could be the first option depending on what's going on," he said. For instance, if an officer is being attacked, facing off with an armed person, or dealing with an individual where he or she thinks it will be safest to disorient the suspect.

"It has to be driven by what the circumstances are," he said. "If at that time the officer feels he can bring someone into control by a strike to the head, to disorient him."

In some situations, he said, a strike to the head could allow the officer to quickly get the person under control, as opposed to wrestling with him or her. "That's better than getting into a long ground battle," he said, because those can lead to injury, too.

Fisher said use of force reviews are about determining whether the action taken was only that which is "reasonably necessary," and any video recordings help to establish the facts so a determination can be made.

"Some are egregious, and you can't miss it, and other times it's hard to make a judgement call," he said.

He said punches to the head can be justified, despite the risk of injury, if they were necessary given the situation -- even though it may look alarming in a video.

And he added: "A video recording of someone struck in the head ought to make people stop and take pause."

Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tipsBy Kelly Heyboer | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Did the government really "lose" nearly 1,500 kids who illegally crossed the border into the United States without their parents? And are any of them in New Jersey?

A Trump administration official made headlines last month when he testified before a Senate committee that his department was unsure of "the whereabouts of 1,475 unaccompanied alien children" apprehended at the border.

The revelation sparked the #WhereAretheChildren movement on social media -- and a protest Wednesday night in Newark -- questioning whether the government is properly caring for kids who cross the U.S. border alone.

Government officials fired back this week, saying the idea that the 1,475 kids are "lost" is a mischaracterization. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services officials said they failed to make contact during an audit of the "sponsor families" that took in the unaccompanied children, perhaps because the families simply didn't answer the phone.

Many of the sponsors are relatives of the children who are living in the country illegally themselves and are reluctant to check in with federal authorities, government officials said.

"This is the core of this issue: In many cases, HHS has been put in the position of placing illegal aliens with the individuals who helped arrange for them to enter the country illegally," said Health and Human Services Department Deputy Secretary Eric Hargan.

The controversy has put a spotlight on the federal Office of Refugee Resettlement program that oversees the care of of immigrant kids arriving in the U.S. alone -- including nearly 2,300 sent to live in New Jersey last year.

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How many unaccompanied immigrants kids are here?

Some are teenagers who sneak over the U.S.-Mexico border with friends. Others are young children smuggled into the country by "coyotes" hired by their parents. A few are kids fleeing poverty and violence in their home countries by simply walking into the U.S. alone.

Immigration authorities apprehended 42,497 unaccompanied minors -- ranging in age from babies to 17 year olds -- and placed them with sponsor families during fiscal year 2017 (which runs from October 2016 to September 2017), according to federal statistics.

Another 19,658 children were placed with sponsor families during the first half of fiscal year 2018, according to the statistics.

Federal law says the government must feed, shelter or find sponsor families to house the kids while they await immigration hearings to see if the children should be deported or permitted to stay.

Some of the children end up in shelters run by the Office of Refugee Resettlement. But, most end up living with U.S. sponsor families, usually parents, relatives or friends the children name when they cross the border.

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How many of the kids are in New Jersey?

New Jersey ranks seventh in the nation in the number of unaccompanied immigrant children sent to live with sponsor families in the state. (California, Texas and Florida top the list.)

There were 2,268 unaccompanied children released to families in New Jersey after they were taken into custody by immigration officials in fiscal year 2017, according to federal statistics.

Another 1,053 minors who crossed in to the U.S. without their parents were placed with sponsor families in New Jersey in the first seven months of fiscal year 2018, according to the statistics.

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Where are they living?

The 10 New Jersey counties with the most unaccompanied immigrant children living with sponsor families in fiscal year 2017 were:

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10) Monmouth County

Fiscal year 2017: 65 children

Fiscal year 2016: 87 children

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9) Passaic County

Fiscal year 2017: 68 children

Fiscal year 2016: 105 children

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8) Camden County

Fiscal year 2017: 74 children

Fiscal year 2016: 73 children

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7) Middlesex County

Fiscal year 2017: 130 children

Fiscal year 2016: 87 children

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6) Morris County

Fiscal year 2017: 144 children

Fiscal year 2016: 126 children

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5) Essex County

Fiscal year 2017: 228 children

Fiscal year 2016: 288 children

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4) Mercer County

Fiscal year 2017: 243 children

Fiscal year 2016: 193 children

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3) Bergen County

Fiscal year 2017: 250 children

Fiscal year 2016: 281 children

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2) Hudson County

Fiscal year 2017: 314 children

Fiscal year 2016: 367 children

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1) Union County

Fiscal year 2017: 489 children

Fiscal year 2016: 669 children

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Did the U.S. government "lose" any of the immigrant children placed in New Jersey?

It is unclear if any of the immigrant children in New Jersey were included in the 1,475 minors federal officials said they were unable to account for because their sponsor families did not respond to attempts to contact them.

Federal officials did not break down where the 1,475 children and their sponsor families were living.

Randi Mandelbaum, a Rutgers University law professor and director of the school's Child Advocacy Clinic, said she often helps represent immigrant children and their sponsor families in court.

In many cases, the "lost" children are safe with their sponsor families, but the families may be reluctant to speak with any immigration officials as the government has been stepping up efforts to deport unauthorized immigrants in New Jersey and nationwide.

"The family may be too scared to come to the phone if ICE is involved," Mandelbaum said.

Of the 7,635 sponsor families the government tried to reach between October and December of last year, 1,475 could not be reached, according to the department's Congressional testimony. Another 6,075 of the children were safe and still living with their sponsors, 52 had moved to live with someone else, 28 kids had run away and five had been deported, according federal officials.

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Were these children taken from their parents at the border?

No. There has been a lot of confusion over how the 1,475 children the U.S. government lost track of originally arrived in the U.S.

Though several #WhereAreTheChildren activists have said the 1,475 kids were ripped from their parents' arms after they illegally crossed the border into the U.S., that is not true. All of the 1,475 children are in a program for kids who arrived in the U.S. as unaccompanied minors, government officials said.

There is another controversial program implemented by the Trump Administration that is separating children from their parents if they are caught illegally crossing the border. Those children are placed in shelters -- but they are not placed with sponsor families like kids caught crossing the border without their parents, federal officials said.

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Where do most of the kids arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border alone come from?

More than 90 percent of the unaccompanied children caught sneaking into the U.S. illegally are from three countries: Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

Many are fleeing high homicide rates, gang activity, violence and poverty in their troubled countries, according to surveys of migrants from the region.

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Do most of the unaccompanied immigrant kids end up getting deported?

Once they are placed with their sponsor families, the children are placed in deportation proceedings in immigration court. However, they can apply to stay in the U.S., said Mandelbaum, the Rutgers professor whose clinic helps get the children free legal representation.

Many apply for asylum, arguing in court that they would face persecution if sent back to their home countries based on the race, political opinion, nationality or other reasons.

Others ask the court for special immigrant juvenile status to remain in the U.S. for children who have been abused, neglected or abandoned.

The process is lengthy, Mandelbaum said.

"It's quicker these days for asylum -- that's going to be a year or two," she said. "For special immigrant juvenile status, it's getting longer -- upwards of three to five years."

About 70 percent of the immigrant children who go to court with a lawyer are successful in getting to stay in the U.S., Mandelbaum said. Only about 15 percent of the children who don't have legal representation get to stay.

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What's next?

The #WhereAretheChildren movement on social media has reignited the debate over how the U.S. is dealing with illegal immigration.

The issue has also added to the debate over the Trump administration's controversial policy of separating from children from their parents after they arrive as a family as the U.S. border seeking asylum.

Trump administration officials said the problems tracking unaccompanied immigrant children is a symptom of a broken immigration system.

"In the worst cases, these loopholes are being exploited by human traffickers and violent gangs like MS-13. Until these laws are fixed, the American taxpayer is paying the bill for costly programs that aggravate the problem and put children in dangerous situations," Hargan, the deputy secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, said in a statement.

We oppose the Trump administration's policy of cruelly separating children from their families. Yesterday, la comunidad... Posted by Make the Road New Jersey on Thursday, May 31, 2018

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Read more about unauthorized immigrants in New Jersey

Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KellyHeyboer. Find her at KellyHeyboerReporter on Facebook.

Don't EditWhen Gov. Chris Christie ran the show in Trenton, his fellow Republicans were so obedient it was creepy to witness, like watching a zombie movie.

Democrats don't play that way. They are split into fiefdoms, each nursing ancient grudges, each angling for advantage, always. Think Game of Thrones.

We saw a volcanic eruption of that on Thursday, when Senate President Steve Sweeney held a surprise press conference that amounted to a 40-minute spanking of the rookie governor, Phil Murphy.

Sweeney didn't just kick the guts out of the governor's budget plan. He went out of his way to provoke Murphy, as if he wanted a brawl.

He warned that Murphy might raise taxes again next year and mocked him as a liberal spender who can't face fiscal reality, both favorite Republican attack lines.

"I'd like to give everyone everything," Sweeney said. "Listen, I'd like to give everyone a Cadillac in their driveway. But I can't afford it."

Later, he said, "We have plenty of revenue. It's the way it's spent...Sometimes people don't like to make tough choices."

He teased the governor for describing government spending as "investment" and taxes as "revenue" saying it was "cute."

"I say spending and taxes," Sweeney said.

He presented a plan on school funding that differs from Murphy's, then threatened to shut down the government unless Murphy yields.

It was an odd moment, since both sides say they are close to an agreement. So, why the nuclear threat?

And finally, he went berserk about plans for a TV ad campaign to promote Murphy's agenda, which he sees as a means of pressuring legislators.

"Look, Democrats fight, but we don't do it in back rooms, we do it out front," Sweeney said. "It's offensive they don't want to negotiate like we should."

The split between Murphy and Sweeney is finally starting to scare me. How much dysfunctional government can one state take?

And so far, the clash is bringing out the worst in both men.

Sweeney used to love bar fights in his youth, and it still shows. Thursday's performance made me wonder if his resistance to Murphy's modest tax hikes is at least partly rooted in personal animosity.

His attack on Murphy's spending habits was beyond unfair. Murphy has two liberal-dream items in this budget - expanded preschool, and more scholarships for community college. Together, they would cost just over $100 million, a tiny bump that amounts to one-quarter of one percent of the budget.

The big increases are in pension and education funding, which together grow by nearly $1 billion next year. And Sweeney himself is the chief sponsor of both measures.

Murphy, meanwhile, keeps screwing this relationship up, like a befuddled retiree who keeps stepping on the metal rake, whacking his head each time.

The original sin came last year, when the New Jersey Education Association spent more than $5 million buying sleazy attacks ads against Sweeney, in support of a Trump Republican challenger. Sweeney begged Murphy, as party leader, to object. But Murphy refused. Can you blame Sweeney for his fury?

After the election, Murphy insulted Sweeney by ignoring him for days and weeks on end. They sat down last Friday with a heavy agenda -- budget, taxes, school funding AND legalizing marijuana.

But Murphy said he had to leave after one hour, with nothing resolved. Was that a deliberate slap, or is the new governor that clueless?

Then came the threatened ad campaign. Brendan Gill, who managed the governor's campaign last year, announced last month that he planned to air TV spots in support of Murphy.

Sweeney began receiving calls from friends saying that Gill was raising money to "fight the legislature" in the advertisements. He is furious, and demands that Gill release the names of the donors.

Is Sweeney overreacting? For sure. Gill released a script of the ad he's working on, and it was all cream-puff language about mutual successes.

But why stick with the ad campaign if Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, D-Middlesex, both object? Why pick this fight? What gain could possibly be worth infuriating the two men he needs most?

And why hide the identity of the donors until the end of the year, which makes this stunt genuinely smarmy?

Murphy is a mystery to me. I keep waiting for his big push to win the fight on taxes -- the town halls, the press conferences, the events at schools and train stations where the tax money will be spent. Where is all that?

His bigger problem, though, is that he hasn't been tending to key relationships, starting with Sweeney. He insists that the media is spinning this tale from nothing, but after Thursday's public spanking, there is no denying it.

On Friday, the governor ordered state agencies to prepare for a shutdown in case the July 1 budget deadline passes without agreement. I wonder if he realizes how much of the blame will splash back on him if that happens.

"If you are the governor, you have to figure out how to bring people together," says Assemblyman Jon Bramnick, the Republican leader. "The buck stops there. If things fall apart, it's your fault, 100 percent."

That may not be fair. But in this case, I'm afraid it's probably right.

More: Tom Moran columns

Tom Moran may be reached at tmoran@starledger.com or call (973) 836-4909. Follow him on Twitter @tomamoran. Find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook.BALTIMORE -- For the Yankees, it was worth the wait.

After a mostly dry rain delay of nearly two hours, they were able to squeeze a 8-5 win over the Orioles at Camden Yards in Saturday before thunderstorms threatened to hammer the Inner Harbor.

More rain!

The Yankees may not get as lucky Sunday, with the National Weather Service forecasting potential flash floods and buckets of rain around the 1:07 p.m. start time. The teams were washed out Thursday night.

Masahiro Tanaka turned in a good-enough 5 1/3 innings and four runs. Giancarlo Stanton rocked a two run shot, his 12th of the year and first since May 19. Miguel Andujar also contributed a two-run homer and an RBI double in the eighth, putting the Yankees ahead, 8-4.

Tanaka left in trouble. He put runners on second and first base with an out. Jonathan Holder got him out of it but gave up an RBI double to Danny Valencia to cut the Yankees' lead to 6-4.

What it means

The win was the Yankees' fourth in a row. They're 37-17 -- owners of MLB's best winning percentage at .685.

They started the day 1/2 games behind the Red Sox in the American League East. Boston was playing against Houston on Saturday night.

Turning point

The sixth inning was the separator for the Yankees, who scored a pair of runs while aided by two miscues from usually solid center fielder Adam Jones and a throwing error from second baseman Jonathan Schoop.

After Stanton led off the inning with a single, Gary Sanchez hit a grounder to short. Schoop took the throw to start the double play but fired it well over first base. The ball landed out of play and Sanchez was awarded second base.

Then Didi Gregorius ripped a low liner to center field. Jones went to play it off the short hop. It kicked off the wet grass, bounced off his glove and rolled behind him. Sanchez scored. Gregorius was given an RBI and a single and he advanced to second base on the error -- a bad call by the official scorer.

In the next at-bat, Aaron Hicks singled to center. Jones missed the cutoff man. Gregorius scored and Hicks made it to second on the throwing flub.

What you should know

Andujar's homer came in the second inning. It gave the Yankees a 2-1 lead after Jones rocked a first-inning homer off Tanaka, who has surrendered bombs in all but two of his 12 starts this season.

Tanaka struck out seven, walked one and allowed eight hits, including two other home runs -- Joey Rickard's third-inning solo shot and Manny Machado's bomb to lead off the sixth.

It was the sixth time Tanaka didn't give the Yankees at least six innings this year.

Gary Sanchez went hitless in four at-bats, extending his slump to two for his last 28.

Aaron Judge's only hit was a double in the fifth inning. He struck out three times.

Gardner had two doubles. Hicks had three hits. His single in the eighth make it 7-4 Yankees, scoring Didi Gregorius.

David Robertson gave up a run in the ninth. Dellin Betances pitched a scoreless eighth and Chad Green had a scoreless seventh.

NEXT

Sunday: Yankees righty Domingo German (0-3, 5.45 ERA) vs. Orioles righty Alex Cobb (1-7, 6.80 ERA)

Brendan Kuty may be reached at bkuty@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @BrendanKutyNJ. Find NJ.com Yankees on Facebook.A teenager's run-in with Birmingham police started well before he stole a city bus and rammed two patrol cars on Sunday, according to information released by police.

The 15-year-old's escape from authorities lasted about half the day: Shortly after 2 p.m. police reported that he was back in custody. It wasn't immediately clear what charges he would face, though police said that his actions "took a minor situation to a level that put many lives in danger," including his own.

According to information released by the Birmingham Police Department, officers from the South Precinct responded at about 3:30 a.m. Sunday to a call of two individuals with guns. They found the two in possession of a BB gun and a paintball gun.

One of the two was a 15-year-old whose mother refused to come and take custody of him. The other person was not charged. The 15-year-old was taken to the Juvenile Detention Facility on 2nd Court North to be placed in protective custody. However, he escaped at about 6:30 a.m.

According to a statement from police, "the escape took place outside of the facility and was not an escape from the Juvenile Detention Facility." A police spokesman clarified that the juvenile had been brought to the detention center for paperwork to be signed so that he could be turned over to DHR, but he escaped from the parking lot before being taken inside.

After finding his way to a Birmingham MAX bus depot on 31st Street North, he stole a small MAX bus. Officers spotted the vehicle and attempted to stop it; during the pursuit the driver struck two patrol cars. A portion of the pursuit was captured in a video posted to Facebook by a bystander.

The driver abandoned the bus at 9th Avenue North and 44th Place North and fled on foot in the area of the Tom Brown housing development. As officers continued to search for him, a police statement credited the officers involved with "great restraint" for ensuring that no one was injured in the chase, including the juvenile suspect.

According to police, his return to custody was "accomplished with the cooperation of his mother." He was turned over to authorities in the Tom Brown housing community.On Monday (May 28), Brisbi's Lakefront Restaurant and Bar served its final meal, and when the doors open again several weeks from now, the waterfront site will be home to a Felix's Oyster Bar.

This will be the third Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar location. The original is on Iberville Street in the French Quarter and a second location is on Beach Drive in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Brisbi's, which was owned by Jonathan Brisbi, who owns a construction management and development business, opened his restaurant in 2013, with about 80 seats inside, including 40 on an outdoor deck overlooking the water. It features a horseshoe-shaped bar in the main dining room, with more than 250 feet of waterfront dock with a multi-level design to suit boats and watercraft of different sizes.

That location, which is near The Blue Crab Restaurant and Oyster Bar as well as Landry's Seafood House, is what attracted Felix's, said Robbie Orgeron, president of Felix's Restaurant Group.

"We really like the atmosphere and the physical plant that John has put together out there," Orgeron said. "It's just a great fit for us."

Renovations on the building, which was constructed five years ago to house Brisbi's, will began right away, he said.

"It's going to have more of a coastal atmosphere," Orgeron said, adding that, other than a chargrill oyster station, most of the renovations are expected to be cosmetic, with a fresh color scheme.

"The contractor has to get in and look at certain things," he said. "We're anticipating a two- to three-week turn-around."

Orgeron described the food that will be served as a "traditional Bucktown menu" that more closely mirrors the Gulfport location, with fried seafood, po-boys, pastas and, of course, a variety of oyster preparations.

Food and restaurant news in your inbox Every Thursday we give you the scoop on NOLA dining. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

Some of the wait and kitchen staff may be familiar to Brisbi's regulars.

"Everybody that's employed is being offered a position with us," Orgeron said. "So, we're hoping in that two-week time we can get people trained and ready."

Brisbi added that all of the gift cards will be honored as well by Felix's.

"That was pretty big deal on the agenda when negotiating this," said Brisbi, noting that his restaurant would have been opened five years come this Father's Day. He said that he would not rule out re-entering the restaurant business at some point, but for now he will focus on his construction interests.

Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar in the French Quarter has been open for more than 70 years. The restaurant was first owned by the Saia family and then the Rotonti family. In 2012, the restaurant was in bankruptcy. That's when Danny Conwill, a New Orleans investment banker, bought Felix's.

In July, Felix's Restaurant Group took over empty restaurant space at 208 Bourbon St., renovating the restaurant and giving it public access on both Iberville and Bourbon streets. (At that same time, the restaurant group had taken over the lease at Amici Ristorante & Bar at 3218 Magazine St., but Orgeron said the restaurant does not plan to open a place there and has let the lease go.)

In May, the restaurant group opened a second, larger Felix's on the waterfront in Gulfport, Mississippi, taking over the former Ajax Seafood Kitchen.

This third Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar will be location will be at 7400 Lakeshore Drive. The other Felix's Oyster House locations are 739 Iberville St., New Orleans, 504.522.4440; and 942 E Beach Blvd, Gulfport, Miss., 228.284.3710.CORVALLIS, Ore. -- Each offensive opportunity went by the wayside. Each chance to escape a jam was handed back to Oregon State for a rally.

LSU had chances to put pressure on No. 3-national seed Oregon State on Saturday (June 2), but the Tigers never took advantage and eventually Oregon State completely took over.

LSU lost 14-1 to Oregon State to drop into the regional loser's bracket Saturday, and it could have been so much closer.

LSU had the bases loaded and nobody out in the bottom of the first against Luke Heimlich, and nothing came of it. Freshman clean-up hitter Daniel Cabrera chopped a ball right to Heimlich that Heimlich threw home to turn a 1-2-3 double play.

Then Nick Coomes popped up to first base to end the potential run.

Then, in the bottom of the second, LSU had runners on first and second with nobody out. Brandt Broussard failed to lay down two bunt attempts before striking out swinging.

Then, Hal Hughes attempted his own bunt and popped it up to Heimlich, who quickly caught it, turned and threw Jake Slaughter out at second base to end yet another LSU opportunity.

The Tigers had two more runners on in the third when Coomes drove a ball to right center that centerfield Steven Kwan ran down and extended for to end the inning, making it seven runners on in the first three innings that LSU couldn't bring home.

Long day for Zack Hess: The LSU starting pitcher retired the first two batters Saturday and seemed in control. Then he lost control of a slider that hit Nick Madrigal, setting up a Trevor Larnach single and and an Adley Rutschman double to centerfield to give Oregon State a 2-0 lead.

In the third, Hess had runners on first and third with two outs when a swinging bunt to the mound that would have ended the inning slowly rolled by him and just past his glove bring the run home.

That was when the rails come off, with Hess walking three consecutive batters to make the deficit five.

Hess finished with nine runs allowed -- eight earned -- in 3-1/3 innings. He gave up eight hits, four walks and one hit batter.

The Beavers scored three more runs on Caleb Gilbert and two more runs on Trent Vietmeier.

What's next?: LSU faces in-state school Northwestern State in an elimination game 2 p.m. Sunday. The Tigers will start Cam Sanders against Northwestern State's Nathan Jones.

The winner of LSU and Northwestern State plays Oregon State again 8 p.m. Sunday and would need to beat the Beavers twice to take the regional.Buffalo Wild Wings is apologizing after an apparent hack led to vulgar messages being posted to its official Twitter account.

A series of tweets were posted starting at 6:30 p.m. Friday and remained up for about 20 minutes. The posts included vulgar sayings and racial-charged messages, with one showing an image of what looked like a teenage boy with a scarf covering half his face.

The company later issued a statement regarding the hack.

"Buffalo Wild Wings' Twitter account was hacked," a spokesperson for the company said. "We're sorry that our fans had to see those awful posts, which obviously did not come from us. We are in touch with our Twitter representatives and will pursue the appropriate action against the individuals involved."

The offensive tweets have since been deleted and Buffalo Wild Wings said it has contacted Twitter about the breach.Jesse Duplantis by all accounts is richly blessed. With an estimated worth of $50 million, a 35,000-square-foot, $3 million-plus plantation home in St. Charles Parish, the Destrehan televangelist and prosperity gospel preacher collects royalties on his more than two dozen books translated into 13 different languages and is in demand as a speaker all over the world.

Not that everything is perfect, of course.

"I've had the media attack me," he said in one interview, "because I'm a blessed man. I can't help it if I'm blessed. It ain't my fault."

What's a televangelist to do? And things weren't always this good.

The New Orleans-born Duplantis had mostly neglected God's blessings until he was saved back in 1974 from his life as vocalist and bass guitarist Jerry Jaxon with the rock band Summer Wine.

"It's a miracle," Duplantis told an interviewer. "I drank a fifth of whisky a day, smoked a little dope a week, snorted cocaine, PCP, crystal meth, took trips and never left my house. You understand what I'm saying."

That all changed when he was coaxed into watching evangelist Billy Graham in a televised revival.

"You know how Billy Graham says at the end, 'If you'd like to get saved, write me and I'll send you the same literature that I send, and go to church next Sunday.' I jumped. I got off that bed. ... And I got up, I immediately left and went into the bathroom, but I couldn't close that door fast enough. God got in that bathroom with me."

Don't you hate when that happens? And anyone who has ever been cornered by God in the bathroom knows what's coming next: Duplantis "got born again," had a supernatural impact on his band and the dope-smoking audience while covering Sly and the Family Stone's "I Want to Take You Higher," went cold turkey on the drugs and turned his back on Jerry Jaxon.

Duplantis preached his first sermon two years later, became a full-time evangelistic minister in 1978 and founded Jesse Duplantis Ministries in 1997.

Duplantis, who will be 69 in July, may not be the best known, but he is one of the stars in the televangelical Pentecostal pantheon that includes Oral Roberts, Kenneth Hagin, Benny Hinn and Kenneth Copeland.

His younger contemporaries are Houston's Joel Osteen, known as "the smiling preacher," with a weekly audience of 7 million; T. D. Jakes, named by Time magazine one of America's most influential new religious leaders; Joyce Meyer, evangelist and women's empowerment guru; and Creflo Dollar, pastor of Atlanta's 30,000-member World Changers Church International and the most aptly named enchanter in the bunch.

In her book "Blessed: A History of the American Prosperity Gospel," historian Kate Bowler notes that "The movement goes by different names, ranging from the slightly pejorative (Health and Wealth or Name It and Claim It) to the vaguely descriptive (Faith or Word of Faith) to the blunt shorthand, the prosperity gospel. Though it is hard to describe, it is easy to find."

Mainstream Christian leaders would easily define it as a perversion of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which teaches God's blessing and sovereignty through both joy and pain. The prosperity gospel claims God rewards increased faith with increased health and/or wealth.

This insidious American heresy is being exported to countries around the world, which is how Duplantis came in for some recent media criticism of his blessed existence.

Duplantis is asking his followers to help him "believe God" enough for a $54 million jet "so we can go anywhere in the world in one stop." Duplantis says he isn't asking for money just for supporters to believe with him so that the plane will be provided.

His ministry already has purchased three private jets and been "just burning them up for the Lord Jesus Christ." The most recent purchase was in 2006.

"I really believe that if the Lord Jesus Christ was physically on the Earth today, he wouldn't be riding a donkey," Duplantis says in a video. "He'd be in an airplane flying all over the world."

Jesus, except for his triumphal Palm Sunday entry, is always described in the Bible as walking dusty roads in his sandals, but a recent conversation between Duplantis and fellow evangelist Kenneth Copeland revealed why the common touch just doesn't work anymore.

"Oral [Roberts] used to fly airlines," Copeland said. "But, even back then it got to the place where it was agitating his spirit. People coming up to him, he had become famous, and they wanted him to pray for them and all that. You can't, you can't manage that today. This dope-filled world, and get in a long tube with a bunch of demons. And it's deadly."

Given recent events, it's hard to argue with the description of commercial planes as "a long tube with a bunch of demons," but it does seem unChrist-like to be agitated by prayer requests.

You could run into the bathroom, of course, but you never know who you will hear from in there. And it might not be what you want to hear.

Tim Morris is an opinions columnist at NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. He can be reached at tmorris@nola.com. Follow him on Twitter @tmorris504.In the week since reading colleague Mark Schleifstein's report that the Army Corps of Engineers has known for years its latest New Orleans levee system contains potentially fatal flaws, I've been unable to shake two famous quotes from this long, sad story.

Quote 1: "It's as if your poorly built, three-story house collapsed, so the contractor said, 'OK, I'll replace it with a well-made, two-story house."

Quote 2: "It was a system in name only."

That first one came from Mark Davis, director of the Tulane Institute on Water Resources Law & Policy, when asked to give his opinion on the new system as it neared completion three years ago. He was making the point that the system was designed to a lower level of protection than the failed system it was replacing.

History is on his side. That deadly pre-Katrina system, ordered by Congress way back in 1965 but still incomplete in 2005, was supposed to withstand the "most severe meteorological event" likely to occur in the area. At the time this was considered the surge from a 300- to 400-year storm. That obviously wasn't done because the corps now estimates the levees that failed with deadly consequences during Katrina faced a surge from a 200- to 250-year event. (Katrina's surge that flattened the Mississippi coast, however, is rated at the 400-year level).

The new system, meanwhile, is designed to stand up only to a 100-year storm. Clearly a lower level of protection than called for pre-Katrina.

(Storm specialists stopped using the Category 1-through-5 system for hurricane surge ratings because surge heights of small storms can be higher than larger category storms.)

But the corps' recently revealed evaluations of its latest system make Davis' judgment seem like inflated praise. Our new, two-story house isn't so strong. In case you missed that report, allow me to ruin your Sunday (or your pending act of sale on that new home) with some of the more shocking judgments the corps has handed down on its work:

--It could be overtopped during the storm is designed for, and likely would be overtopped and breached in a storm surge like Katrina;

--The armoring the corps has recommended to prevent breaches caused by overtopping from a Katrina-like storm likely will not work, leading to breaches, loss of life and property;

--There's a 14 percent chance such a levee-breaching surge will hit here in the lifetime of a 30-year home mortgage, and a 5.8 percent chance of an even bigger surge happening during that time.

--Local communities don't have the money to repair problems that already exist, not to mention deficiencies they know will develop in the future, which could lead to a loss of federal flood insurance.

By now you might be wondering: How could our government leave us at such deadly risk after promising to make us safe?

That brings us to the second quote.

When the Corps of Engineers finished the investigation of its deadly levee and floodwall failures in Katrina, it issued one of the most damning judgments ever for a complicated engineering project: It was a system in name only.

That verdict was rendered because the many parts of the system constructed over 40 years at the cost of billions did not work together to achieve an overarching goal: To protect the lives and property of half a million U.S. citizens in a Katrina-size storm.

Well, if you're looking for the root cause for the inadequacies in our "new" system, you can find it in the same language: We are now living in a country that functions as one nation in name only.

Until a few years ago Americans took pride in large public projects. We would brag about our ability to put our economic and political power to work building infrastructure like bridges and highways, as well as creating education systems and environmental and safety regulations that led to the highest standard of living anywhere in the world.

That was a time when we were encouraged to understand that while we might be 50 separate states, we still pulled together for the greater good. But that idea of nationhood has not only fallen out of favor in many places, it has become a pejorative for much of the body politic.

Many conservatives now oppose almost anything with the word's "national" or "public" attached -- from public lands and public education to public safety and public health.

For decades they have been sending people to Congress with promises to "cut government." The result has been a gradual hollowing out of vital public agencies and programs, the steady fall of the United States behind the rest of the West in quality of life -- and the decline in spending on public safety projects, like hurricane storm surge protection systems.

This focus on "me" rather than "we" has led to the well-documented crumbling of our infrastructure, much of which involves keeping communities safe. In fact, a corps study also found that 80 percent of its 76 levee systems rated high risk or worse around the nation "were found to have one or more levee performance concerns that would likely result in a breach prior to overtopping."

Many of those anti-government voters don't see why their tax dollars should be used to keep New Orleans safe from Category 5 hurricanes. And I'm sure there are an equal number of Louisiana voters who balk at helping San Francisco pay for earthquake readiness.

So, yes, we have a "new" storm surge protection system that is likely to have serious failures if anther Katrina comes along. But if you live in a country that has a system of nationhood in name only, this is what you end up with.

Compare that to the Dutch model, where "public" is not a dirty word. Their systems are built to withstand a storm so severe if might occur only once every 10,000 years.

Now, that's a system that truly works.

Bob Marshall, former Outdoors editor for The Times-Picayune and former environmental reporter for The Lens, writes a regular column. He can be reached at bmarshallenviro@gmail.com.You want to sell your house, but then you discover there's a problem with the roof that requires you to replace the whole thing. Roof repairs are costly, but no matter how many thousands of dollars you put into the repair, you will do so knowing that you won't be able to add a cent of it to your asking price. A person buying a house expects the roof to have integrity. A good roof is not like new countertops or a jacuzzi tub. A seller can't make a good roof a selling point.

There's analogy to be made, I think, between a house with a bad roof and a police department infamous for unconstitutional policing. The fix is super expensive, but the money spent only brings such a police department up to where it should have been all along. A police department doesn't get to brag that it's constitutional. Just like a solid roof is the expectation, so, too, are law enforcement officers who follow the law themselves.

One of the first thing Mitch Landrieu did as mayor of New Orleans was send then-Attorney General Eric Holder a letter asking for help with the New Orleans Police Department. "I have inherited a police force that has been described by many as one of the worst police departments in the country," he wrote.

The next year, a report from the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice corroborated that description of the department being one of the country's worst. "The NOPD has long been a troubled agency," that report began. "Basic elements of effective policing -- clear policies, training, accountability, and confidence of the citizenry -- have been absent for years. Far too often, officers show a lack of respect for the civil rights and dignity of the people of New Orleans. While the majority of the force is hardworking and committed to public safety, too many officers of every rank either do not understand or choose to ignore the boundaries of constitutional policing."

The New Orleans Police Department entered into a consent decree with the federal government after that report, and Landrieu was hoping that he would leave office with the department having satisfied all the components of that agreement. That didn't happen. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, who's been overseeing the department's compliance with the consent decree, said Thursday that NOPD has come a long way, but that it's not where it needs to be quite yet. A DOJ attorney and the lead federal monitor concurred.

But they all had good words to say about the progress the department has been making. DOJ Civil Rights Division attorney Emily Guston said NOPD is "not yet in compliance" but that its noncompliance is "not for any lack of effort."

"It really is astounding to me compared to where we came from during the investigation," Guston said. She describes today's NOPD as "a completely different department. We are now seeing the markers of true culture change."

Jonathan Aronie, the consent decree's lead monitor, said the department has made "significant progress in every area of the consent decree" and that "even in those difficult areas that will take more time, progress is being made."

Randolph Scott, one of the members of an anti-police brutality group called Citizens United for Change is appreciative of the changes he's seen but not all that impressed. Citizens United for Change expressed its thoughts about the department's progress in a letter to the monitor that attorney Bill Quigley mailed in April. "The Court, the Monitor, the NOPD and the City have documented some progress in turning the NOPD into a constitutional policing organization," the letter begins, "But the NOPD remains a long way from being a constitutionally correct policing organization."

The letter argues that many New Orleanians have stopped coming to meetings about the department's progress because they expressed concerns about NOPD actions and policies without getting a response. As for the court hearings Morgan has convened, Scott said, it's even worse. The public is expected to be seen and not heard. "What I have requested of the consent decree monitors is that the community be allowed to give a 5-minute presentation to the judge," Scott said. "Everybody else is given a turn, but she's not receiving any direct input from the community. The community is only afforded the opportunity to sit and listen and not participate. And we've criticized that."

As for the department itself, "I think the NOPD has a little ways to go," Scott said. Though the DOJ attorney touted "culture change," Randolph's assessment is that the older officers haven't changed and that it's new hires who are making the difference.

I asked Scott to describe the NOPD he dreams of. "One that understands the Constitution of the United States," he said. "That's foremost number one."

A police department that understands the Constitution shouldn't count as a luxury, but in New Orleans, just getting closer to being constitutional has been quite the costly upgrade.

Jarvis DeBerry is deputy opinions editor for NOLA.COM | The Times-Picayune. He can be reached at jdeberry@nola.comor at twitter.com/jarvisdeberry.Coming off a six weeks of rain, and coming into what appears to be the beginning of the dog days, its time to change your fishing strategy if you plan to catch fish the rest of the summer.Up to 150,000 households who otherwise wouldnt qualify  including some with six-figure salaries  are expected to apply for food stamps as qualifications are relaxed to help in the recovery from Hurricane Ida.For more information on the new NCL cruise ship, the Norwegian Bliss, contact Travel Leaders/Fly Away Travel at 541-672-5701.Kisqali plus fulvestrant demonstrated superior efficacy, with a median PFS of 20.5 months vs. 12.8 months for fulvestrant alone, among overall study population of first- and second-line postmenopausal patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer[1]

In the subgroup of patients taking Kisqali plus fulvestrant in the first-line setting, median PFS was not reached and 70% were estimated to remain progression-free at median follow-up of 16.5 months[1]

MONALEESA-3 is the only randomized Phase III trial to study a CDK4/6 inhibitor plus fulvestrant in the first-line setting showing efficacy in patients with de novo advanced breast cancer and those who had not received adjuvant therapy in more than a year[1]

Data presented today at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in Chicago and published simultaneously in the Journal of Clinical Oncology





Basel, June 3, 2018 - Novartis today announced positive results from the third Phase III trial of Kisqali (ribociclib) in advanced or metastatic breast cancer. MONALEESA-3 showed Kisqali plus fulvestrant significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) compared to fulvestrant alone in postmenopausal women with hormone-receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative (HR+/HER2-) advanced breast cancer. MONALEESA-3 is the largest phase III trial to evaluate efficacy and safety of a CDK4/6 inhibitor plus fulvestrant in multiple advanced breast cancer patient populations - first-line and second-line settings[1]. These data will be presented today as an oral presentation at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in Chicago (Abstract #1000) and published simultaneously in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Kisqali in combination with fulvestrant demonstrated a median PFS of 20.5 months (95% CI: 18.5-23.5 months) compared to 12.8 months (95% CI: 10.9-16.3 months) for fulvestrant alone (HR=0.593; 95% CI: 0.480-0.732; p=.00000041) across both treatment arms. The median PFS for the subgroup of patients receiving Kisqali plus fulvestrant in the first-line setting, including only de novo patients and those whose disease relapsed >12 months since end of neo(adjuvant) endocrine therapy, was not reached compared to 18.3 months for fulvestrant alone (HR=0.577; 95% CI: 0.415-0.802). In patients receiving treatment in the second-line setting, or those who relapsed <12 months since end of neo(adjuvant) endocrine therapy, the median PFS was 14.6 months compared to 9.1 months for fulvestrant alone (HR=0.565; 95% CI: 0.428-0.744)[1].

"The MONALEESA-3 results in patients treated in this first-line setting were particularly significant. Nearly 70% of women who received ribociclib plus fulvestrant in this setting were estimated to remain progression-free at the median follow-up of 16.5 months," said Dennis J. Slamon, MD, Director of Clinical/Translational Research, University of California, Los Angeles Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. "In the advanced breast cancer setting, it is important to ensure we provide patients with treatment options that increase time to disease progression while also maintaining quality of life."

Fifty percent of the women in MONALEESA-3 had lung and/or liver metastases and showed a consistent treatment benefit compared with the overall population. Follow-up to measure overall survival is ongoing as these data remain immature[1].

"MONALEESA-3 data add to the robust body of evidence demonstrating the broad potential of Kisqali to treat pre- and postmenopausal women living with advanced breast cancer in various endocrine combinations and multiple lines of therapy," said Samit Hirawat, MD, Head, Novartis Oncology Global Drug Development. "These results along with the other MONALEESA studies build a compelling case that Kisqali combination therapy should be a cornerstone of first-line treatment of HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer."

No new safety signals were observed in the MONALEESA-3 trial; adverse events were generally consistent with those observed in MONALEESA-2[1]. The discontinuation rate due to adverse events was 8.5% for Kisqali plus fulvestrant compared to 4.1% for fulvestrant alone[1]. The most common (>=5%) grade 3/4 adverse events in patients receiving Kisqali plus fulvestrant compared to fulvestrant alone were neutropenia (53.4% vs 0%) and leukopenia (14.1% vs 0%)[1].

Additional Kisqali data are being presented at the 2018 ASCO Annual Meeting. Further results from MONALEESA-7 showed consistent treatment benefit among premenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer regardless of prior chemotherapy treatment in the advanced setting (Abstract #1047)[2]. Initial safety data from the CompLEEment-1 trial demonstrated a consistent safety profile for Kisqali in a patient population more reflective of those seen in a real-world setting (Abstract #1056)[3]. Lastly, biomarker data from MONALEESA-2 showed that clinical benefit of Kisqali was consistent across gene expression subgroups with a trend toward greater Kisqali benefit in the high versus low ESR1 expression and low versus high RTK expression subgroups (Abstract #1022)[4].

Novartis is in discussion with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with respect to a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA), seeking approval of Kisqali plus fulvestrant for the treatment of postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer.

About MONALEESA-3

MONALEESA-3 is a Phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating Kisqali in combination with fulvestrant compared to fulvestrant alone for the treatment of postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who received no prior or only one line of prior endocrine therapy for advanced disease. A total of 726 people were randomized in the trial, including first-line patients comprised of 367 women who were treatment-naive and 345 who had received up to one line of prior endocrine therapy for advanced disease. Patients were randomized (2:1) to receive Kisqali plus fulvestrant or fulvestrant alone. Randomization was stratified by the presence or absence of lung or liver metastases and prior endocrine therapy (first-line versus second-line).

About Kisqali (ribociclib)

Kisqali is a selective cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, a class of drugs that help slow the progression of cancer by inhibiting two proteins called cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6). These proteins, when over-activated, can enable cancer cells to grow and divide too quickly. Targeting CDK4/6 with enhanced precision may play a role in ensuring that cancer cells do not continue to replicate uncontrollably.

Kisqali was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in March 2017 and by the European Commission in August 2017, as initial endocrine-based therapy for postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer in combination with an aromatase inhibitor based on findings from the pivotal MONALEESA-2 trial. Kisqali is not currently approved for use in combination with fulvestrant or in premenopausal women.

Kisqali is approved for use in 59 countries around the world, including the United States and European Union member states. Kisqali was developed by the Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) under a research collaboration with Astex Pharmaceuticals.

About the Kisqali Clinical Trial Program

With more than 2,000 patients enrolled in current trials, the MONALEESA program is the largest industry sponsored Phase III clinical program researching a CDK4/6 inhibitor in HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer. In addition to MONALEESA-3, there are three other Phase III trials evaluating Kisqali combination therapy.

MONALEESA-7 is a Phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the efficacy and safety of Kisqali in combination with tamoxifen or a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor plus goserelin versus tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor plus goserelin, in premenopausal or perimenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who had not previously received endocrine therapy for advanced disease.

MONALEESA-2 is a Phase III global registration trial evaluating Kisqali in combination with letrozole compared to letrozole alone in postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who received no prior therapy for their advanced breast cancer.

CompLEEment-1 is an open-label, multicenter, Phase IIIb study evaluating the safety and efficacy of Kisqali plus letrozole in pre- or postmenopausal women and men with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who have not received prior hormonal therapy for advanced disease.

More information about these studies can be found at www.ClinicalTrials.gov.

About Novartis in Advanced Breast Cancer

For more than 30 years, Novartis has been tackling breast cancer with superior science, great collaboration and a passion for transforming patient care. With one of the most diverse breast cancer pipelines and one of the largest numbers of breast cancer compounds in development, Novartis leads the industry in discovery of new therapies and combinations, especially in HR+ advanced breast cancer, the most common form of the disease.

Important Safety Information from the Kisqali EU SmPC

The most common ADRs and the most common grade 3/4 ADRs (reported at a frequency >=20% and >=2% respectively) for which the frequency for Kisqali plus letrozole exceeds the frequency for placebo plus letrozole were blood and lymphatic system disorders (including abnormally low neutrophil and white blood cell count), headache, back pain, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, hair loss and rash and abnormally low levels of neutrophils or white blood cells, abnormal liver function tests (increased alanine and aspartate aminotransferase), abnormally low lymphocyte count, low levels of phosphate, vomiting, nausea, fatigue and back pain, respectively. Low levels of neutrophils was the most commonly seen severe adverse event; fever in addition to a low neutrophil count was reported in 1.5% of patients.

Kisqali can cause serious side effects such as a significant decrease in neutrophil count, abnormal liver function tests and may have an effect on the electrical activity of the heart known as QT/QTc interval prolongation, which could lead to disturbances in heart rhythm. As a precaution, patients should have complete blood counts, liver function, and serum electrolyte levels measured prior to starting treatment as well as during treatment with Kisqali. Patients should also have their heart activity checked before and monitored during treatment.

The efficacy and safety of ribociclib have not been studied in patients with critical visceral disease.

The use of Kisqali with medicinal products known to prolong QTc interval or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided as this may lead to prolongation of the QT/QTc interval. If treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided, the Kisqali dose should be reduced. Concomitant administration with other medicines that could affect cardiac repolarization or prolong the QT/QTc interval should be taken into account prior to and during treatment with Kisqali. Patients taking sensitive CYP3A4 substrates with narrow therapeutic index should use caution because of the increased risk of adverse events that may occur if these medications are co-administered with Kisqali.

Kisqali contains soya lecithin and therefore it should not be taken by patients who are allergic to peanut or soya.

Animal studies suggest that Kisqali may cause fetal harm in pregnant women. Therefore, as a precaution, women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while receiving Kisqali during treatment and up to 21 days after stopping treatment. Women should not breast feed for at least 21 days after the last dose of Kisqali. Kisqali may affect fertility in males.

Please see full Prescribing Information for Kisqali, available at www.kisqali.com.

Disclaimer

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as "potential," "can," "will," "plan," "expect," "anticipate," "look forward," "believe," "committed," "investigational," "pipeline," "launch," or similar terms, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential marketing approvals, new indications or labeling for the investigational or approved products described in this press release, or regarding potential future revenues from such products. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations regarding future events, and are subject to significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be submitted or approved for sale or for any additional indications or labeling in any market, or at any particular time. Nor can there be any guarantee that such products will be commercially successful in the future. In particular, our expectations regarding such products could be affected by, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including clinical trial results and additional analysis of existing clinical data; regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; global trends toward health care cost containment, including government, payor and general public pricing and reimbursement pressures; our ability to obtain or maintain proprietary intellectual property protection; the particular prescribing preferences of physicians and patients; general political and economic conditions; safety, quality or manufacturing issues; potential or actual data security and data privacy breaches, or disruptions of our information technology systems, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AG's current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Novartis

Novartis provides innovative healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis offers a diversified portfolio to best meet these needs: innovative medicines, cost-saving generic and biosimilar pharmaceuticals and eye care. Novartis has leading positions globally in each of these areas. In 2017, the Group achieved net sales of USD 49.1 billion, while R&D throughout the Group amounted to approximately USD 9.0 billion. Novartis Group companies employ approximately 124,000 full-time-equivalent associates. Novartis products are sold in approximately 155 countries around the world. For more information, please visit http://www.novartis.com.

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For Novartis multimedia content, please visit www.novartis.com/news/media-library

For questions about the site or required registration, please contact media.relations@novartis.com

References

[1] Slamon J, et al. Ribociclib (RIB) + fulvestrant (FUL) in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC): Results from MONALEESA-3. Journal of Clinical Oncology 2018.

[2] Hurvitz S, et al. Ribociclib (RIB) + tamoxifen (TAM) or a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) in premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC) who received prior chemotherapy (CT): MONALEESA-7 subgroup analysis. Presented at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), June 2, 2018, Chicago, Illinois (abstract #1047).

[3] De Laurentiis M, et al. Ribociclib (RIBO) + letrozole (LET) in patients (pts) with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC) with no prior endocrine therapy (ET) for ABC: Preliminary results from the phase 3b CompLEEment-1 trial. Presented at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), June 2, 2018, Chicago, Illinois (abstract #1056).

[4] Hortobagyi G, et al. First-line ribociclib (RIB) + letrozole (LET) in hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC): MONALEESA-2 biomarker analysis. Presented at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), June 2, 2018, Chicago, Illinois (abstract #1022).

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GC4419 met primary endpoint, achieving 92 percent reduction in duration of severe oral mucositis (SOM) in patients with head and neck cancer



GC4419 also demonstrated reduction in SOM incidence and severity, and was well tolerated

Abstract to be featured in 2018 Best of ASCO program

MALVERN, Penn., June 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Galera Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development of drugs targeting oxygen metabolic pathways with the potential to transform cancer radiotherapy, announced data from the Phase 2b clinical trial evaluating GC4419, a highly selective and potent small molecule dismutase mimetic, were presented today during an oral session at the 2018 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in Chicago.

The 223-patient, double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the safety of GC4419 and its ability to reduce the duration of radiation-induced severe oral mucositis (SOM) in patients with locally advanced squamous cell head and neck cancer receiving seven weeks of radiation therapy plus cisplatin. Approximately 70 percent of patients receiving chemoradiotherapy develop SOM, as defined by the World Health Organization as Grade 3 or 4, which is the most debilitating side effect of the radiotherapy.

Patients in the trial were treated with either 30 mg or 90 mg of GC4419 or placebo by infusion on the days they received their radiation treatment. Patients were randomized to one of the three treatment groups (1:1:1) and the trial recruited patients in both the United States and Canada. In the trials intent-to-treat population, the 90 mg dose of GC4419 met the primary endpoint, demonstrating a statistically significant (p = 0.024) 92 percent reduction in the median duration of SOM from 19 days to 1.5 days.

Galera is honored ASCO has recognized the clinically meaningful results from our Phase 2b trial of GC4419 by selecting the abstract for the Best of ASCO program, said Mel Sorensen, M.D., President and CEO of Galera. This distinction, as well as the receipt of Breakthrough Therapy and Fast Track designations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, underscores GC4419s potential to be an important new treatment for this prevalent toxic effect of radiotherapy. We look forward to working with the FDA to define the next step in the development of GC4419.

Other key highlights from the Phase 2b trial include:

GC4419 exhibited a safety profile comparable to placebo in the two treatment groups, and was well tolerated.

In the 90 mg arm, GC4419 demonstrated a clinically meaningful effect in pre-specified secondary endpoints (incidence and severity of SOM). GC4419 achieved a 34 percent reduction through completion of radiation (p = 0.009), and a 36 percent reduction through 60 Gy of radiation (p = 0.010), in the overall incidence of SOM. GC4419 reduced the severity of patients OM by 47 percent (p = 0.045).



Oral mucositis is one of the most common and disruptive side effects experienced by patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, but there are no approved drugs to prevent or treat it, said Carryn Anderson, M.D., trial investigator and Radiation Oncologist, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. GC4419s ability to significantly decrease severe oral mucositis while maintaining a favorable safety profile comparable to placebo is an especially encouraging sign of its promise to offer a novel treatment option.

About Oral Mucositis

Oral mucositis (OM) is a painful and problematic complication during cancer treatment, especially radiation therapy, caused by excessive superoxide generated during treatment that breaks down epithelial cells that line the mouth. Patients suffering from OM experience severe pain, inflammation, ulceration and bleeding of the mouth.

In the United States, more than 50 percent of patients with cancer receive radiotherapy at some time in their treatment. In patients with head and neck cancer, radiotherapy is a mainstay of treatment and approximately 70 percent of patients receiving chemoradiotherapy develop severe oral mucositis (SOM) as defined by the World Health Organization as Grade 3 or 4, which is the most debilitating side effect of the radiotherapy.

SOM can adversely affect cancer treatment outcomes by causing interruptions in radiotherapy, which may compromise the otherwise good prognosis for tumor control in many of these patients. SOM may also inhibit patients ability to eat solid food or even drink liquids, and can cause serious infections. Further, the costs of managing these side effects are substantial, particularly when hospitalization and/or surgical placement of PEG tubes to maintain nutrition and hydration are required. There is currently no drug approved to prevent or treat SOM in patients with head and neck cancer.

About GC4419

GC4419 is a highly selective and potent small molecule dismutase mimetic that closely mimics the activity of human superoxide dismutase enzymes. GC4419 works to reduce elevated levels of superoxide caused by radiation therapy by rapidly converting superoxide to hydrogen peroxide and oxygen. Left untreated, elevated superoxide can damage noncancerous tissues and lead to debilitating side effects, including oral mucositis (OM), which can limit the anti-tumor efficacy of radiation therapy. Conversion of elevated superoxide to hydrogen peroxide, which is selectively more toxic to cancer cells, can also enhance the effect of radiation on tumors, particularly with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which produces high levels of superoxide.

GC4419 has been studied in patients with head and neck cancer, GC4419s lead indication, for its ability to reduce the duration, incidence and severity of radiation-induced severe oral mucositis (SOM). Results from Galeras 223-patient, double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 2b clinical trial demonstrated GC4419s ability to dramatically reduce the duration of SOM from 19 days to 1.5 days (92 percent), the incidence of SOM through completion of radiation by 34 percent and the severity of patients OM by 47 percent, while demonstrating acceptable safety when added to a standard radiotherapy regimen. In addition, in multiple preclinical studies, GC4419 demonstrated an increased tumor response to radiation therapy while preventing toxicity in normal tissue.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Breakthrough Therapy designation to GC4419 for the reduction of the duration, incidence and severity of SOM induced by radiation therapy with or without systemic therapy. The FDA also granted Fast Track designation to GC4419 for the reduction of the severity and incidence of radiation and chemotherapy-induced OM.

About Galera Therapeutics

Galera Therapeutics, Inc. is a privately held, clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing novel therapeutics targeting oxygen metabolic pathways with the potential to transform how radiation therapy is used in patients with cancer. Galeras lead product candidate is GC4419, a highly selective and potent small molecule superoxide dismutase enzyme mimetic that rapidly converts superoxide to hydrogen peroxide and oxygen. GC4419 achieved positive results in a Phase 2b clinical trial, which demonstrated its ability to reduce the duration, incidence and severity of radiation-induced severe oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer, its lead indication. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted Fast Track and Breakthrough Therapy designations to GC4419. Galera is headquartered in Malvern, PA. For more information, visit www.galeratx.com.

Media Contact:

Heather Anderson

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handerson@6degreespr.comEnglish Norwegian

Jotun, of which Orkla owns 42.6%, has issued its financial statement for 1 January - 30 April 2018.

Please find the financial report and press release enclosed.



Orkla ASA

Oslo, 3 June 2018In light of ongoing threats of public school shootings by disaffected youth, it seems our thinking that the structure of our schools must change. Otherwise, we are forced to accept a new reality that schools must become harder targets. We'll have to accept hiring more school resource police personnel who may end up sending our minority students into the criminal justice system at disproportionate rates. We'll have to arm teachers. We'll need more lock down drills.

I don't want to live in that kind of society. Our lawmakers aren't able to enact legislation to protect our children. For now, we have to accept this sad truth.

I would support a nationwide school boycott to protect our children. Nothing else has worked. A boycott could motivate voters and legislators. It's a radical idea, but what else can be done that isn't already failing?

We need innovative ideas to reform schools and reduce risks of mass shootings. We could reduce the impersonal mega-school model. We could have smaller clusters with shared science labs, technology and gymnasiums. These clusters would still be diverse, but much more personal. When students are known well, interventions can occur quickly. There could be so many other ideas, but we have to start thinking outside the box.

-- Linda Sneed, WilsonvilleColumbia Sportswear complains that it will pay a higher Portland tax rate because its chief executive makes more than 100 times the pay of its median worker. ("CEO vs. workers: Here's how pay at major Oregon employers compares," May 18.) Columbia argues the numbers are unreliable because there is not a standard methodology for determining median worker pay under the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rule that requires such disclosures. But it was President Donald Trump's administration that decided to give corporations flexibility on that point, drawing praise from corporate America. And there are basic rules. The article observed that Columbia's number includes international workers. Well, under the law, they are required to do so, unless their foreign workforce is less than 5 percent of their total.

Portland's tax surcharge on corporations with extreme CEO-to-worker pay ratios has been praised by some of the world's leading economists studying inequality. Branko Milanovic, former lead economist at the World Bank, described it as "the first tax that targets inequality itself." If Columbia or any other corporation wants to avoid the surcharge, it's simple: Pay CEOs less and workers more. Indeed, since Columbia's CEO pay ratio is 105 to 1, they wouldn't have to do much compared to companies like Walmart with ratios over 1,000 to 1.

-- Steve Novick, Southwest PortlandThis item is available in full to subscribers.

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Otherwise, click here to view your options for subscribing.By Harris Zafar

Every year, I am one of millions of Muslims who look forward to Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. As I shared last week, Ramadan provides me with an opportunity to become a stronger person both spiritually and morally by cultivating virtues such as patience, honesty, generosity, empathy and anger control. But beyond the benefit of a greater spiritual and moral focus while fasting, Ramadan also extends its impact into the physical and physiological plain.

To begin, there is the obvious physical benefit of shedding excess body weight when refraining from food and drink during the sunlight hours for a month. By still eating twice a day (the pre-dawn meal and the sunset meal), the body is still nourished, but a conscious avoidance of food in between these two meals enables the body to burn fat. Of course, there are the unfortunate people who gorge themselves with a large quantity of food and sweets when they open their fast in the evening. That's why some people surprisingly gain weight during this month. But for those who exercise the discipline that Ramadan is meant to inculcate by eating healthy meals, this month teaches the value of self-control while also giving the body an opportunity to use up stored calories and sugars.

There are several categories of people who are exempt from fasting due to the Quran's statement about fasting that God "desires not hardship for you." Those exempt include the sick and the elderly, those who are traveling, children, pregnant women, or anyone who's health would preclude them from fasting. This is why the Quran also lists this exemption for those in the broad category of "for those who are able to fast only with great difficulty." Anyone exempt is still given the opportunity of spiritual benefit by being directed instead to feed a hungry person that day.

For those who are healthy and at home, they experience the physical benefit to their bodies. Health and nutrition experts say intermittent fasting helps with weight loss as well as increased energy, decreased sugar cravings, better mental clarity, disease prevention and even better sleep. Studies have shown intermittent fasting may decrease low-density lipoprotein -- known as the "bad" cholesterol -- reduce inflammation, and even lower your insulin resistance, which means you can stabilize sugar levels and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Every year, I invite friends and colleagues to participate in the fast with me in order to share the experience. And like most years, I had some friends who chose to show solidarity with me this year by fasting for a few days. After the first day, one friend said, "The food part was easy. The 'no water' part was real hard." On the second day he texted, "I am actually into it. Been thinking really clearly the last two days. No fog." This matches studies showing better mental clarity during fasts, when the body has the chance to relax and not be in a constant state of digestion due to constant snacking.

After inviting the public to try fasting in a radio interview at the very beginning of Ramadan, I was surprised to receive the following message online from a listener: "I'm an atheist, but hearing you on Tell Me Everything w/@JohnFugelsang a few weeks ago about the meaning of Ramadan I decided to fast. Help me develop empathy for others through self-sacrifice & discipline with humility. Learning lots and still going strong. Ramadan Mubarak."

We are now half-way through Ramadan. So for those who would like to experience the fast, you have two weeks. I am happy to answer questions. My mosque (PortlandMuslims.com) continues to host its Ramadan open houses, join us at 7:30 p.m. on either June 2 or June 9 to have your questions answered, get to know one another and enjoy an incredible sunset meal on us.

Harris Zafar is the national spokesperson for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA and attends the Portland Rizwan Mosque in Southwest Portland. He is writing a series of columns every Saturday through June 14 to explore the holy month for Muslims.PENDLETON  It's a common phenomenon for someone with internet access and some time to kill.



Trawling through Wikipedia's seemingly exponential number of articles and entries, a user clicks several links and before they know it, they've ended up on a topic that's a far cry from where they started.



It's commonly referred to as a Wikipedia "spiral," and two sisters have decided it offers enough material for a downloadable talk show.



Rosanna Brown and Nikki Katz host the "6 Degrees of Wiki" podcast, an online talk show that uses Wikipedia, the popular encyclopedic website with more than 6.5 million English-language entries, to connect seemingly unrelated topics in six steps.



In a recent episode, the sisters were tasked with linking the Trojan Horse, the mythical wooden horse the Greeks used to invade Troy, to Transylvania, a Romanian region most popular as the setting of "Dracula."



Katz, 36, played the role of quizmaster, cluing in Brown, 39, at the start of each round by giving her a rundown of each Wikipedia page before Brown gives her best guess (the sisters switch roles each month).



Brown's initial stab at guessing the ultimate link is a little thin.



"Episode 28 is brought to you by the letter T, because that's all they have in common," she said, leading to some laughs between the siblings.



Katz's journey through the spiral, which includes stops at the pages of Homer's "Odyssey," Suleiman the Magnificent, and the Siege of Vienna, includes plenty of asides where the sisters can further discuss interesting facts.



The crosstalk stays pretty lighthearted between the hosts: the darkest it gets is when Katz mentions that a priest who tried to warn the Trojans about the impending invasion is murdered by sea serpents sent by the Greek god Poseidon, spurring Brown into a fit of giggles.



Although the sisters have an easy rapport, they don't have the benefit of being in the same room.



More than 200 miles separate Katz, who lives in Portland, and the Pendleton-based Brown.



Brown said the distance actually aids their quiz format by preventing them from reading each other's body language.



"We're sisters, so we can talk without talking out loud," she said.



The daughters of a recruiter for the U.S. Navy, the sisters moved to Pendleton in 1996, when they were 17 and 14.



Katz eventually figured out she preferred to live in an urban environment and moved to Portland while Brown stayed in town, but they share a love of podcasts.



Both siblings have families and day jobs  Katz helps manage the Oregon Health and Science University website and Brown is an administrative/technical assistant for the Umatilla Morrow Radio and Data District  but that didn't prevent them from becoming podcasters themselves, starting out with audio reviews of movies, books, and TV before starting "6 Degrees of Wiki" six months ago.



The sisters wanted to replicate the feeling of a Wikipedia "spiral," an activity where a Wikipedia user goes deeper and deeper into a rabbit hole by clicking links embedded into the page. Brown and Katz have plenty of subjects to choose from.



They also wanted to keep the content clean  no cursing or adult topics  so that it could be a podcast children can listen to.



Katz said the learning curve was steep, especially in trying to produce a podcast with good sound quality.



The sisters have since settled into a groove, brainstorming throughout the week before committing to a night to record two episodes.



While they initially tried using internet software to record their podcast from their distant locations, the pair has settled into recording a phone call from both ends and splicing the results together.



After all the editing is done, Brown estimates the sisters dedicate about 10 to 15 hours per week to produce the podcasts.



While some podcasts have lucrative sponsorship deals, "6 Degrees of Wiki" is still a passion project for now.



The podcast averages about 100 downloads per episode, but the sisters said their audience is growing with each successive release, with some listeners tuning in from as far as Turkey and Canada.



As they look into setting up an account on Patreon, a subscription service that is popular with writers, artists, and podcasters, the sisters have recently ordered T-shirts and other merchandise embossed with the "6 Degrees of Wiki" logo.



Although they've found some success attracting international listeners, Brown and Katz hope some well-placed memorabilia and word-of-mouth will create local converts as well.

-- Antonio Sierra, East OregonianMost special requests to the senior center office are from residents who want to recapture past moments of their lives.

Time is precious, and they want to take that final trip to a special place. Or maybe they want to relive a beloved hobby they were forced to give up because their body betrayed them.

A couple of months ago, a different kind of appeal came in, one that people at Marquis Tualatin are still talking about.

Not because it was a grand adventure, but because its purity reminds us what matters as we confront the end. Our capacity to love and be loved.

All Eleanor Dew wanted was to see the future in the eyes of her five great-grandchildren, possibly for the last time.

She was about to turn 100 in mid-May and knew she was slowly losing a part of herself as she disappeared into the fog of dementia.

But from that fog came a request when her son, John, paid one of his regular visits to her at her long-term care center.

"I asked what she wanted to do for her birthday," her son said. "At her age, not a lot of things get my mother excited. She usually just shrugs or says 'whatever.' But this time she clearly enunciated what was deep in her mind."

She wanted to be surrounded by her great-grandchildren, including a 3-year-old great-granddaughter she had never met.

Making it happen, though, would be difficult. Four live throughout the Pacific Northwest and the fifth, a 3-year-old girl, is in California. They'd have to travel with parents, coordinate schedules, pay for what was really just a birthday party.

After John Dew left, his mother repeated the wish to her caregiver.

The caregiver told the Marquis Tualatin activity director, who contacted Vital Life -- the charitable arm of Marquis properties in Oregon, Washington, Nevada and California -- to see if it could help. The foundation sorts through various requests and selects those deemed worthy.

"We've been doing this for 10 years," said Ann Adrian, the foundation's executive director. "Most fall into an experience. One person wanted a last trip to Yosemite. Another wanted a last fly-fishing trip."

The foundation set up a 100th birthday party for Eleanor Dew, contacting her family and getting the five great-grandchildren and their parents to come surprise Dew. They paid for little Sophia Ali and her parents to fly in from California.

"My mother was in a room," John Dew said. "And around the corner came all the great-grandchildren. And then the youngest, the girl she had never seen, walked up to my mom who was in a wheelchair."

Eleanor Dew cried. John Dew cried.

"She clapped her hands and was thrilled," he said.

More than 20 family members, as well as center employees and caregivers, watched the reunion and stayed for the party.

"No one will ever forget it," Adrian said. "Everyone was overcome with emotion. Moments like this matter."

Susanna Ali, Sophia's mother, is an art professor at California State University, Long Beach. She said her grandmother has always been a role model, encouraging her as a child to follow her passion to create.

"My husband comes from a large family," Ali said. "They're local and we spend a lot of time with them. This was a meaningful opportunity for me to see my daughter with my grandmother and all the other relatives."

At the party, Ali said she felt as if she were watching something historical. At 100, this woman in the wheelchair had seen and lived through incredible changes in the world. The one constant in the old woman's life has been love.

"She is always positive," Ali said. "When I watched her with my daughter, I experienced emotions that I never anticipated."

In coming years, Ali plans to share with her daughter all the photographs taken that day.

"I will show Sophia her great-grandmother and tell her how she impacted my life. ... She's our only child," Ali said. "Like any parents, we want her to have as many connections as possible with her family."

One day, and no one can say when, Eleanor Dew will look at those children and see only strangers.

But they will remember her.

--Tom Hallman Jr.

thallman@oregonian.com; 503 221-8224

@thallmanjrA Bend firefighter on a motorcycle died Saturday night after hitting a bear and then being struck by another driver.

At about 7 p.m., Oregon State Police and other emergency personnel responded to a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 26 near Warm Springs. Rhett Larsen, 39, was riding east when he struck and killed a bear, Oregon State Police said. Larsen was thrown from his motorcycle and was then hit by Oregon City resident Margaret Sweo, 57, who was driving west. Sweo was transported to a hospital by Life Flight after her car rolled.

Larsen was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, Bend Firefighters, Local 227, said, "Rhett was not only an exceptional firefighter, he was a loyal friend, respected mentor, and loving father. The loss of such a fun-loving, energetic soul is felt deeply by both the Bend Fire Department and the Bend community."

-- Corlyn VoorheesOn any given day, more than a thousand people are detained in Portland at the Multnomah County Jail. Most of them aren't there because they've been convicted of a crime. A disproportionate number of them are people of color.

And that's why Gina Spencer convened a recent meeting just a few blocks away, at the Yamhill Pub dive bar, with three other Portland activists. She's spearheading a community effort to pay bail for black defendants who can't afford it.

"What we're really trying to do is bring light to the fact that the money bail system is unjust, it doesn't work for the poor, it penalizes the poor, and it should be abolished altogether," Spencer said.

In April, just 17 percent of the Multnomah County Jail population was serving a sentence for a conviction. The rest were being held pre-trial, either because they were deemed too great a risk to the community to be released, they were being held for another law enforcement agency, or they couldn't afford to post bail.

"If a judge has deemed that you can be released as long as you can pay this money, then you should be released and treated as innocent until proven guilty," Spencer said.

Defenders of Oregon's bail system say it's much more equitable than other states  and they're right. In 1972, the state Legislature effectively ended the commercial bail bond business by making the court itself the bondsman. Instead of going through a for-profit company, defendants can pay a 10 percent security on their bail to the court, meaning someone can be released on $5,000 bail by paying just $500. After fees and fines, defendants can get most of that $500 back when their cases are adjudicated.

"They are in tears and they are worried about where their children are, if they're going to lose their home, if they're going to lose their job," she said. "And medication doesn't treat that."

She moved to Portland last summer from Philadelphia, where she had contributed to a community bail fund that pooled donations to pay bail for people who couldn't afford it otherwise. She reached out to members of Portland's Resistance about creating a local version of the fund.

Their first fundraiser was Black Mama Bail Out, which raised more than $21,000 to bail out black moms ahead of Mother's Day this year. Though black people represent less than 6 percent of the Multnomah County population, they consistently comprise more than 20 percent of the jail's bookings. The county's own studies have found that blacks are overrepresented in its criminal justice system.

But the Black Mama Bail Out provided bail for only two women.

Spencer paid $2,250 for one woman's bail in Washington County, only to learn later the woman had a hold in another county and was transferred to a different jail. Another woman was successfully released from Multnomah County Jail on a $500 payment, but the process of contacting the women, to ask if they wanted the fund's help, was more complicated and time-consuming than Spencer anticipated.

She also ran into a great problem to have: Several women were released before Spencer could bail them out.

Multnomah County is one of four Oregon counties using a risk assessment tool to determine who would be most eligible for pretrial release, allowing some people out without paying bail.

But not everyone has access to those pretrial services. And for those who receive bail, not everyone can afford it.

Exactly how many people remain in Oregon jails for nothing but lack of money remains a mystery. There's no statewide system tracking that data, nor is that something the Multnomah County Jail breaks down.

If jail is meant to detain people considered a risk to the community, why is money part of the equation at all?

Being stuck in jail, even for a few days, can have a devastating effect on someone's ability to keep their job, pay rent, or care for their children. And it can be an incentive to just plead guilty  which will often result in immediate release.

Studies have also shown that bail isn't a factor in whether someone returns to court. The Bronx Freedom Fund, the largest nonprofit bail fund in the country, reports that 96 percent of its clients return for all their court dates, even though the Freedom Fund, not the defendant, is on the hook for the money.

And being out of jail means people have more means to defend themselves. The Freedom Fund reports that 55 percent of its clients' cases result in a dismissal of all charges.

"Requiring money security release to be posted before you can be released has a disparate effect on people who don't have money," said Mike Schmidt, executive director of the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission.

Schmidt said Oregon will be taking a critical look at the use of money bail. The 2017 Legislature tasked the state's Public Safety Task Force with studying "security release in Oregon, focusing on reducing racial and ethnic disparity in pretrial incarceration."

Their first report is due this fall.

Until there's a statewide fix, Spencer is continuing her efforts. She's learned more about how the jail system works and how long it takes to bail someone out. She's continuing fundraising efforts at gofundme.com/portland-bail-out, and using the money remaining from the Mother's Day effort to focus on releasing black men and women from jails in the Portland area and Southwest Washington ahead of Father's Day and Juneteenth, the June 19 holiday celebrating emancipation.

She's already bailed out one father.

If you know someone who could use the assistance of the Portland Bail Out fund, email pdxbailout@gmail.com.

-- Samantha Swindler is a columnist for The Oregonian/Oregonlive.

@editorswindler / 503-294-4031

sswindler@oregonian.comThe Timbers Army, the supporters' group for the Portland Timbers, unveiled a tifo in honor of LGBTQ Pride Month ahead of Saturday's game between the Timbers and LA Galaxy at Providence Park.

The tifo featured a city scene of Portland with Providence Park in the foreground and a rainbow backdrop.

The Timbers Army recognizes June's LGBTQ Pride Month on an annual basis.

The Timbers Army unveiled the tifo on the same day that the U.S. Men's National Team and the Ireland National Team both wore jerseys with rainbow numbers in a friendly in honor of LGBTQ Pride Month.

Check out the Timbers Army tifo in the video above.

-- Jamie Goldberg | jgoldberg@oregonian.com

503-853-3761 | @jamiebgoldbergNeed a big break? Netflix's "The OA" is searching for extras for its second season of filming in Oregon.

PDXtras

from Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Filming is scheduled to run throughout June, according to its website.

.

All are encouraged to apply, and no experience is necessary. Pay starts at $11.25 an hour, with bumps for upgraded roles.

The psychological mystery follows Brit Marling, who plays a woman who resurfaces after being missing for seven years. According to IMBD.com, the series has mostly been filmed in New York and Los Angeles, so far.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.At 5:00 AM on Saturday, somebody tried to shoot Chicago rapper Chief Kief. Thankfully, they missed.

Authorities tell TMZ that "Instead of striking the 22-year-old Keef, whose real name is Keith Farrelle Cozart, the gunman's errant 5 a.m. shot struck the side of the W Hotel on Broadway near West 47th Street." Police are reportedly still looking for the two gunmen connected to the crime. They also suspect that this is linked to "a beef Keef is having with a Brooklyn rapper."

Chief Keef is part of rap group Glo Gang, and just released part 2 of his solo album "The GloFiles" last May.

Image via Getty

Apple was hit with two class actions (one and two) in May over the MacBook Pro's faulty keyboard that uses a butterfly key mechanism. Now that June has kicked in, a third class action lawsuit over the same issue was filed yesterday June 2, 2018 on behalf of Diego Binatena individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated

Just prior to the class actions being filed in May, a petition came to light from Charge.org that demanded Apple take action to fix their MacBook Pro's faulty keyboard. The petition was backed by a number of longstanding Apple bloggers such as John Gruber of Daring Fireball.

Overview of the Action

The Plaintiff's complaint before the court begins with an overview of the action that is presented as follows:

"Plaintiff brings this class action on behalf of himself and others who purchased MacBook Pro laptop computers on or after late 2016 with defective "butterfly" keyboards. These keyboards are prone to failure, and, when replaced, often fail again.

Apple is a market leader in the manufacture, marketing and sale of computers and computing devices. In late 2016, Apple introduced a new version of its high-end MacBook Pro laptop, featuring new a "butterfly" keyboard, which is more compact than previous keyboards. This keyboard, however, is particularly prone to failure, especially when dust or other debris becomes lodged underneath the keys.

The cost of replacing a keyboard is approximately $700.

Unfortunately, replacing failed keyboards with the same butterfly keyboard does not fix the issue  the replacement keyboards are also prone to the same failure.

Keyboards are an essential part of a laptop computer. Without a functioning keyboard, the utility and value of a laptop is vastly diminished.

Plaintiff brings this action for monetary, declaratory and equitable relief for Apple's: 1) breach of its express and implied warranties; 2) breach of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act; 3) breach of the duty of good faith and fair dealing; 4) breach of California's Unfair Competition Law; 5) breach of California's Consumers Legal Remedies Act; and 6) fraudulent concealment. "

In his testimony Mr. Binatena further described how the "b, n and m keys" were unusable. He brought his MacBook Pro to an Apple Store for repair and they only fixed the "b" key by replacing it.

He went back to the store 2-3 weeks later, being dissatisfied with the repair, and was told that his MacBook Pro was now out of warranty and it would cost $500 just for a full diagnosis of the problem and additional money for any repairs.

Why wasn't a full diagnosis done the first time around? I guess that will come to light during the trial if the class action gets the green light to proceed.

Causes for Action

Count 1: Violation of the California Consumers Legal Remedies Act

Count 2: Violation of Bus. & Prof. Code  17200

Count 3: Fraudulent Concealment

Count 4: Breach of Written Warranty

Count 5: Breach of Implied Warranty

Count 6: Violation of Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, 15 U.S.C.  2301

Count 7: Violation of Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, Cal. Civ. Code  1792

Count 8: Breach of Contract/Duty of Good Faith and Fair Dealing





Diego Binatena's attorney Scott C. Borison of Legg Law Firm, LLP filed this class action against Apple Inc. on June 2, 2018 in the California Northern District Court, San Jose Office in Santa Clara.

About Comments: Patently Apple reserves the right to post, dismiss or edit comments. Those using abusive language or negative behavior will result in being blacklisted on Disqus.Almost Half Of Iran's Wetlands 'Dried Up'

06/03/18

Source: Radio Farda







Sixty wetlands in Iran, including nearly 44 percent of the country's total marshlands, have dried up, according to the deputy head of the Department of Environment (DOE) for wetlands.



"There are some 105 wetlands in Iran, stretching 3 million hectares of land. About 1.3 million hectares of these wetlands are affected by drought, which led to total dryness of some 60 wetlands," state-run Iran Labor News Agency (ILNA) quoted Masoud Bagherzadeh as saying on June 1.



Other wetlands are in critical condition but have not completely dried up yet, he added.





Iran drought map

Scores of lakes, rivers, and marshlands in Iran have dried up or been exposed to drainage in the country due to either drought or water mismanagement.



As examples, Bagherzadeh cited the Jazmourian Wetland in Kerman Province, the salt marsh of Gavkhouni east of Isfahan, Lake Urmia in Western Azerbaijan Province, and Gandoman Lagoon in Chahar Mahal Bakhtiari, which have lost 100 percent, 90 percent, 70 percent, and 20 percent of their areas, respectively.

In March 2017, the head of the DOE at the time, Masoumeh Ebtekar, officially declared the death of Lake Bakhtegan in Fars Province, Jazmourian Wetland, and Gavkhouni Swamp.

Forty wetlands across Iran have lost 20 to 40 percent of their volumes of water since Hassan Rouhani started his first term of presidency in 2013, Bagherzadeh told ILNA.



Rouhani's administration had promised to implement a plan for the revival of Iran's wetlands, including the Hour al-Azim marshland, where 70 percent of the water has been recovered.



Rouhani and his cabinet have repeatedly accused former President Mahmud Ahmadinejad's administration of drying up Hour al-Azim to produce more crude oil.



The Hour al-Azim or Hawizeh marshes are a complex of wetlands that straddle the Iran-Iraq border. The marshes are fed by two branches of the Tigris River, the Euphrates in Iraq, and the Karkheh River in Iran.



DOE officials have repeatedly warned that Turkey's plan to construct the Ilisu Dam on the Tigris poses a serious environmental threat to Iraq and eventually Iran by reducing the flow of the river to Iraqi territory by 56 percent.



Drought in Bushehr Iran

(April 2018 photo by Mehr News Agency)

The director for environmental impact assessment at the DOE, Hamid Jalalvandi, says, "Once the IIisu Dam is built, Hour al-Azim Wetland, which has already been struggling with drought conditions for years, will eventually dry up, triggering a major environmental catastrophe in Iran."



State-run Mehr news agency (Mehr News Agency) also cited Jalavandi as saying, "The dam will not only pose an environmental threat to southern Iran but will also affect the northern and northwestern regions."



The Tigris River flows south from the mountains of southeastern Turkey through Iraq. Before flowing into the Persian Gulf, it joins the Euphrates to form the Shatt-al-Arab, which along with the waters of the Karkheh River in Khuzestan Province, feeds the Hour al-Azim Wetland on the Iran-Iraq border.



The shrinkage of Hour al-Azim in recent years has intensified sandstorms that have hit Khuzestan and neighboring provinces.



One of the most important issues in wetland restoration projects is the allocation of water rights, the deputy environment chief noted. Sharing water in drought-hit Iran has become a bone of contention between residents of several neighboring provinces.



Radio Farda reported on April 13 that farmers protested in Isfahan against the mismanagement of water resources. Hundreds of farmers from eastern parts of the province stormed the provincial capital, among them many women, chanting, "America is not our enemy; our enemy is right here."



Reports said throngs of anti-riot forces with tear-gas gear and buses equipped with water cannons faced the protesters.



In an earlier protest, the farmers swamped Friday Prayer in Isfahan on March 16 and turned their backs to the prayer leader as they chanted, "Turning away from the enemy, eying the motherland."



Referring to these protests, Bagherzadeh noted, "A council comprising the energy minister and the governors of Isfahan, Yazd, and Chahar Mahal Bakhtiari provinces, as well as deputies of relevant departments along with the representatives of upper and lower land farmers, should address and resolve the problem of sharing water from the Zayandeh Rood River."Dr Maxwel Opoku Prempeh, the Minister of Education, has encouraged graduates of universities to reflect on what they could contribute to society and use the knowledge acquired to propel the development of the country.



He said the country was not benefiting enough from the high number of graduates as it continued to be deficient in many areas of development and stressed the need for them to change their orientation towards enhancing the growth of the nation.



Thirty years ago, there were not many people with the degrees that you have. You are in a class of a selected few and so let us see and feel your presence in the economy and the society, he added.



Dr Opoku Prempeh was addressing post-graduate students of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) at its 17th Session of the 50th Congregation at the weekend during which 1,104 students graduated.



Fifty four graduated with PhDs, 202 MPhil, 608 MCom/ MBA, 119 MSc/MEd, 60 MAs, nine for Master of Nursing, and 60 Post-Graduate Diploma and Certificate in various disciplines.



Dr Prempeh recounted how Ghana progressed so well during independence with little graduates but same could not be said of today where a significant proportion of the population were university graduates.



In 1957 when Ghana became independent, I do not think we had PhD holders in the country. With the assemblage of this degrees and knowledge, Ghana should not be found wanting. Therefore wherever you find yourself, you have to brighten your corner.



He urged the graduates to inculcate the spirit of serving the nation, volunteerism and commitment to duty and ensure that the country got maximum benefits from the knowledge acquired.



Professor Joseph Ghartey-Ampiah, the Vice Chancellor, said the University desired to increase graduate enrolment, which stood at 4,591, representing six per cent of the total enrolment, to bring their knowledge to bear on the nations development.



He said their education was paramount on the Universitys agenda hence it had established a Centre for Graduate Professional Development to boost graduate studies and enhance employability and job responsibly.



Prof. Ghartey-Ampiah said 12 new demand-driven programmes had been approved by the Academic Board to the over 390 existing ones.



He said UCC would continue to diversify its mode of graduate education delivery to increase enrolment for distance education.





He charged the graduands to persevere, guard against complacency and work hard to contribute their quota to the improvement and growth of the country.



Mrs Nancy Thompson, the Chairperson of UCC Governing Council, noted that though graduate education was indispensable to economic growth and sustainable development, it seemed to be constrained due to challenges in developing countries, which prevented the realisation of its associated benefits.



She called on government assisted universities to be provided with ultramodern laboratories, infrastructural development and related equipment to make post-graduate studies more beneficial.

Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured VideoThe Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has with immediate effect cancelled the registrations and ordered the withdrawal of all pesticides products that contain Aluminium Phosphide, due to their misapplication in the country.



The EPA said such pesticides products, containing Aluminium Phosphide as active ingredient, were being recklessly misused and misapplied for control of household pests, which was in contravention to the conditions of registration.



The products being asked to be withdrawn from the market were Bextoxin, Phostoxin T, Raintoxin 57tb, Topstoxin, Agroxin Tablet, Dastoxion T and Grain-Mate, belonging to companies located mainly in Kumasi and Accra.



An official document to the importers and copied to the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Minister of Food and Agriculture and the Chairman of the EPA Governing Board has indicated.



The move the Ghana News Agency (GNA) has learnt was part of measures being taken by EPA to protect the citizenry from the misuse and harmful effect of the products.



The GNA got the information as part of a follow up on the case of the alleged misapplication of Topstoxin, a product known to contain Aluminium Phosphide, which hospital authorities at the 37 Military Hospital confirmed caused the death of twin babies at Nima in Accra, after their parents bought and sprayed the product in their room to repel insects in their home.



In the incident that occurred in April this year, the parents of the deceased twins indicated that they bought the product in a van on the open market.



The EPA document, which was distributed to companies that had the product registration, had noted that: Your product containing Aluminium phosphide as active ingredient has been registered for restricted use in Ghana and this means that only companies and persons with the requisite training and expertise are qualified to sell and apply the product in accordance with the label instructions.



The document noted that the companies had grossly violated the conditions concerning the sale of the products and as a result, the products were found in the open market as a general use pesticide.



The Companies are therefore being directed to withdraw all stocks of the product from the market with immediate effect and to submit records of all products imported, withdrawn from the market as well as those in storage to the EPA by May 31, 2018.

Source: Graphic.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Pressure group, OccupyGhana has waded into the Kelni GVG saga calling for an independent audit of the contract.



In a statement, Occupy Ghana called for a detailed investigation and audit by an independent expert.



Read full statement below





OccupyGhana has followed the ongoing debate concerning the 27th December 2017 contract between the Ministries of Finance and Communications on the one part, and a company called Kelni GVG on the other part, to provide a common platform for the purpose of revenue assurance, traffic monitoring, fraud management and mobile money monitoring



DEMANDS



After our review of the Contract, facts available to us and the law, our key demands, as citizens of Ghana, are as follows:



1. The Finance Minister, if he has not done so already, immediately lays before Parliament for passage, the Legislative Instrument required to properly put in place the monthly Communications Service Tax returns required to be filed by the service providers;



2. (i) The deployment of the Revenue Assurance Module under the Contract should be limited to access to the service providers billing systems and nothing more or less,



(ii) Detailed investigation and audit by an independent expert, of the mechanism to be deployed under the Contract, particularly the Revenue Assurance, Specific Voice and Geographic Location Modules, to ascertain and ensure that any snoop and tap capability that is prohibited by law, does not exist, and



(iii) Assurance by the Government that the Mobile Money Monitoring Module under the Contract is not a wholly unnecessary replication of a regulatory function that is vested by law in, and is currently being performed by, the Bank of Ghana; and



3. Enforcement of the law on the use of Internally Generated Funds of the Ghana Revenue Authority and the National Communications Authority for their expenses only, and if considered necessary, make the two entities direct parties to the Contract so that they have a legal say in how the Contract is performed, in their own right.



These demands arise from three primary concerns, namely,

(1) how the Communications Service Tax is to be collected and paid to the Government,



(2) whether the deployment of the monitoring mechanism under the Contract breaches or has the potential to breach the privacy protections under both the law and the Constitution, and



(3) whether the payment of contract sums under the Contract, not by the Government (which is the party to the Contract) but, directly by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the National Communications Authority (NCA) also breaches both the law and the Constitution.



COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE TAX



The 2008 Communications Service Tax Act provides that users of electronic communications services should pay a 6% tax. The mode of tax collection is clear: The tax shall be PAID TOGETHER with the electronic communications service charge payable to the service provider by the user of the service. This simply means that the user pays tax on the value of the voucher/service at the point of purchase, irrespective of whether the distributor sells or the customer uses or does not use what is purchased. The service provider collects the tax and then pays it to the GRA.



The law then provides two processes for verifying/auditing the tax collection and payment. The first is by the service providers filing monthly CST returns with the GRA. The returns form is to be designed by the Minister for Finance to provide information that the Minister deems necessary for those auditing purposes, by way of regulations under a Legislative Instrument. We are informed that the Legislative Instrument is yet to be passed, ten years after the law was passed. We however understand that in lieu of the LI, the GRA has designed its own returns form that the service providers routinely file.



The second verification/audit process is by way of the service providers giving the Government physical access to some node in their billing systems or an equivalent point, described by some as Real Time Monitoring. While some industry watchers and actors fault the wording of the law in this regard and describe it as vague, we believe that the intention of the framers of the law is obvious: the Government must be given access to an equivalent point in the providers networks, but ONLY to where the latters billing systems are connected. We do not see how this simple understanding presents any problems.



We also note that the Contract has four Modules, namely (i) Revenue Assurance, (ii) Specific Voice, (iii) Geographic Location, and (iv) Mobile Money Monitoring. We think that the Revenue Assurance Module should be easy to implement, which would comply with the law, as long as all that the Government has access to are the billing systems. We are concerned that the Specific Voice Module (traffic monitoring) raises questions about the potential to monitor the content of communications in breach of the Constitution and statute. We also need to be convinced that the Geographic Location Module (fraud management) is really relevant to the work that the Government has to do, and does not breach the Constitution and statute. And we have doubts that with the launch of the mobile money interoperability platform that is monitored by the Bank of Ghana in real time, a parallel Mobile Money Monitoring Module is really required.



Thus while we appreciate the Governments probably well-intended aims under these contractual modules, it goes without saying that the modules may only be implemented in accordance with the law. The law as it stands now provides for the filing of monthly returns and giving access to billing systems only. Anything less than this would be in breach of the law. But, more importantly, anything beyond this would also arguably be in breach of the privacy protections afforded by the Constitution and statute.



And it is to this that we now turn.



PRIVACY ISSUES



We are very concerned about the privacy issues that this Contract raises. The privacy of communications and correspondence is guaranteed by Article 18(2) of the Constitution, subject only to the qualifications provided in either that Article itself or Article 21(4). It is in the light of these, and following concerns expressed when the idea of monitoring international inbound traffic first came up, that the 2008 Electronic Communications Act was amended in 2009 to provide expressly that whatever mechanisms or measures are instituted shall not have the capability to actively or passively record, monitor or tap into the content of any incoming or outgoing electronic communication traffic, including voice, video and data existing discretely or on a coverage platform whether local or international.



Upon similar concerns being expressed with the introduction of this so-called Real Time Monitoring in the 2013 amendment of the 2008 Communications Service Tax Act, Parliament provided again that the monitoring mechanism also shall not have the capability to actively or passively record, monitor, or tap into the content of any incoming or outgoing electronic communications traffic, including voice, video or data existing discretely or on a converged platform whether local or international.



Parliament, as if to shore these provisions up and being cognisant of the provisions in Article 18(2) of the Constitution, also passed the 2012 Data Protection Act to provide what is arguably the widest privacy protections known to the law, of data, which the Act defines to include information that is processed by means of equipment operating automatically in response to instructions given for that purpose, recorded with the intention that it should be processed by means of such equipment, recorded as part of a relevant filing system or with the intention that it should form part of a relevant filing system, or simply forms part of an accessible record.



Our argument is that however laudable the governments intentions are for entering into the Contract, and whatever assurances and pledges we receive that the government does not intend to snoop on or tap into our communications and correspondence, the law is simply that whatever mechanism is being deployed SHALL NOT HAVE snoop or tap capability.



We have seen a Press Statement issued by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications dated 1st June 2018, and which says emphatically as follows:



Our informed position is that the current architecture from the NCA and Kelni GVG does not conform to these design standards. The architecture does not provide our customers the privacy of their communication that the constitution guarantees



The said Press Statement then lists the following challenges:



a. the current architecture seeks to connect beyond the equivalent point in the network where the network providers billings systems are connected; [and]

b. The monitoring mechanism has the capability to actively or passively record, monitor or tap into the content of any incoming or outgoing electronic communications traffic such as voice. The proposed connection point will risk exposing content of voice traffic.



If these statements are true, then the deployment of the mechanism with the statutorily prohibited snoop and tap capability, is a breach of the law and the Constitution. Then we would agree with the Chamber that



The voice transaction damp(sic) for the revenue assurance tool should be enough without risking individual customer privacy. We are minded that the law does not talk about intent but capability, which the current architecture processes (sic).



Having said that, we must however express our disappointment that the members of the Chamber, with such a strong and informed position on the matter, neglected or failed to commence legal action against the government to have this matter resolved once and for all by the courts within the 7-day limit imposed by law. That was a letdown.



However, moving forward, we must point out that in Ghana, the 2012 Data Protection Act protects both data and metadata, i.e. data that provides information about other data. This falls under the definition of personal data as data about an individual which can be identified from the data or other information in the possession of or likely to come into the possession of the data controller. Thus in Ghana, a persons voice communications as well as the fact that the person communicated with another person from a certain location and for a certain period (which is the kind of information that the Real Time Monitoring would have access to), are entitled to the same level of privacy protection under our law.



As a matter of interest, while industry watchers are awaiting a decision of the US Supreme Court on whether the US governments acquisition of historical cell-site records created and maintained by a cellular-service provider violates the Fourth Amendment rights of the individual customer to whom the records pertain, we in Ghana have no such problem.



Accordingly, any system that obtains both data and metadata has to comply with the law.



In this regard, we must register our disappointment also at the profoundly deafening silence of the Data Protection Commission in all of these matters. It is important that when such issues arise, statutory bodies entrusted with responsibility to protect our rights act proactively in investigating them, speaking out and making their relevance felt by educating the public.



PAYMENT OF CONTRACT SUMS



We note that neither the NCA nor the GRA is a party to the Contract. Yet they are nominated by the Ministry of Communications and the Ministry of Finance, respectively, as their implementation agents. And we are also informed that the money to be paid to Kelni GVG under the Contract (Contract Sum) is to be paid by the NCA and GRA in a 40% to 60% divide.



We are concerned that the payment of the Contract Sum is not part of the expenses of either the NCA or the GRA, and therefore cannot be paid directly out of the Internally Generated Funds of either entity. Both the GRA and NCA are established by law as bodies corporate with perpetual succession and a common seal and may sue and be sued in its corporate name. Granted that they are authorities of the State, they are considered separate and distinct from the Government. Each of them has a Board that is, by law, the governing body of the Authority.



Although each of them is statutorily under the supervision of a relevant Minister of state, the law is careful to set out and delineate in specific detail, the extent and bounds of that supervision. The general rule is that the Authorities and their Boards are bound by only written Policy Directives issued by the relevant Ministers. And it should be blindingly obvious that those Policy Directives cannot contravene the law or the Constitution.



The law is clear on what the moneys that either the GRA or NCA receives are to be used for. They are only to retain specific portions of those moneys specifically for their expenses only, and the remainder SHALL be paid into the Consolidated Fund. Any use of those moneys on expenditure that does not fall within the expenses of the entities is illegal. Any use of the governments portion of those monies by any person including the Government itself without the moneys first being paid into the Consolidated Fund is a breach of Article 176 of the Constitution. We reiterate that neither the Ministry of Finance nor Ministry of Communications has the power to issue Policy Directives that breach these provisions.



We do not think that the Ministries of Finance and Communications nominating the GRA and NCA respectively as agents under a contract with a private entity falls under the power to issue Policy Directives. We do not think that simply on account of that contractual provision, the GRA and NCA become bound to make the payments of the Contract Sums under the Contract that neither of them is a party to. We do not think that paying the Contract Sums is part of the legitimate expenses of the GRA and NCA, non-parties to the Contract. We would add that there is a complete lack of privity of contract, and that the Contract cannot impose obligations arising under it on any person or even an agent, except the parties to it.



It is time to end the situation where successive governments deliberately turn a blind eye to the requirement for the payment into the Consolidated Fund of moneys that particularly the NCA is bound to pay, which then gives to government the illegal opportunity to spend those moneys completely off-balance sheet, on the blind side of Parliament and the Auditor-General, and in breach of the Constitution.



We would add that any such spending of monies that properly belongs to the Consolidated Fund, being contrary to law, becomes liable to the disallowance and surcharge powers of the Auditor-General under Article 187 of the Constitution. It must be noted that these powers have been interpreted by the Supreme Court on 14th June 2017 in OccupyGhana v. Attorney-General (Suit No. J1/19/2016) as follows: the Auditor-General is bound to issue a disallowance or surcharge where there has been any item of expenditure on behalf of the Government that is contrary to law.



OTHER RELEVANT ISSUES



In this statement, we have limited ourselves to what we perceive to be the legalities of the matter. We do not examine the larger issue of whether any of this is indeed the best practice in countries with more experience and success in telecom regulation. We are still examining that point.



We also do not address the issue of value for money. Although we note a reduction in the total contract sum from the previous or existing contracts, we believe that we can only conduct a fair and accurate review when we have seen and examined the Bill of Quantities and other relevant documents that were submitted by the winning bid. We are therefore applying to the Public Procurement Authority for those and may issue a statement on them after we have reviewed them.



CONCLUSION



It is in the light of the foregoing that we have made our demands, which we consider reasonable under the circumstances. We expect the Government to accede to these demands to forestall any need to resort to court to resolve the issues raised.



Yours in the service of God and Country



OccupyGhana

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Featured VideoPolice say he shouted profanities and claimed to be a leader in the Ku Klux Klan during a domestic dispute, ending with him threatening to kill the arresting officers.

Vlad Dracul Cain.

Vlad Dracul Cain, 46, of Delta, is now facing charges of terroristic threats, simple assault, harassment and resisting arrest.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at York, troopers were called to a home on the first block of Miller Road in Peach Bottom Township around 1:45 a.m. Saturday for a report of a domestic assault. Police say they found Cain had assaulted his 49-year-old girlfriend, repeatedly hitting her in the head and face, pulling out her hair, and threatening to kill her.

The York Daily Record is reporting he has a history of domestic violence towards her, and neighbors told investigators they heard him yelling at her and that he "claimed to be a KKK leader" and said "I'm going to have my people take care of you."

Cain also threatened to kill the troopers who were arresting him, according to the YDR.

Online court records indicate he is in York County Prison, unable to post bail. Cain is scheduled for a preliminary hearing June 15 before Magisterial District Judge Laura S. Manifold.By Amy Lauren Fairchild

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has launched a campaign to discourage e-cigarette vaping.

Amy Lauren Fairchild (The Conversation, photo)

While it targeted all e-cigarette vaping, the campaign makes a powerful visual reference to Juul, a device that can be recharged in a computer USB drive and has been reported to be gaining popularity among youth, even though Juul Labs created it for adults who want to stop smoking. The HHS campaign depicts seemingly emotionless teenagers with USB ports where their mouths should be.

The campaign is part of a long, successful history of fear-based campaigns that have effectively "denormalized" smoking. But, in the case of Juul, is it a new public health threat? Or is it a disruptive technology that threatens to make combustible tobacco products, which kill half of all smokers, obsolete? In short, could it help or hurt public health?

Harm reduction or harm extension?

I am a public health scholar who has studied the history, ethics and evidence in scientific and policy debates over the value of e-cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy. Harm reduction is a public health strategy that involves providing individuals with addiction safer but not necessarily safe substitutes. Providing clean needles to injecting drug users to prevent HIV, substituting methadone for heroin, and even offering seat belts are all examples of harm reduction tactics.

Juul entered the market in 2015 without the legacy of having previously manufactured combustible products. Juul Labs CEO describes the company's mission as "to eliminate cigarettes and help the more than one billion smokers worldwide switch to a better alternative."

The company's website invites visitors to "Learn about our mission to improve the lives of the world's one billion adult smokers."

A man and a woman holding a Juul device. Vaping360.com, CC BY-SA

The device itself is trim and high tech. It looks like a long, elegant thumb drive and easily fits in a user's hand. It is relatively expensive.

The Juul starter kit, which includes the device, charger and four nicotine pods, costs US$49.99 on the company's website. On May 30, 2018, the company was offering a $20 discount for people who were willing to sign up.

Juul has improved nicotine delivery to users, meaning that they get more nicotine, faster, than they do with other vaping products.

Most products on the market use propylene glycol and glycerin as the solvents that allow the delivery of nicotine.

Distinguishing Juul is its use of nicotine salts, a combination of a nicotine base combined with a weak organic acid. Nicotine salts allow for absorption of nicotine in a fashion similar to combustible products. A recent study has suggested that the nicotine hit from Juul is also less harsh on the throat, which may produce a more pleasant experience for both seasoned smokers and new users.

Even without an aggressive marketing strategy, sales of Juul kits have increased 680 percent and sales of refills have increased 710 percent since 2017, according to RBC Capital Markets. Juul has quickly taken command of the e-cigarette market. On May 29, 2018, Wells Fargo Equity attributed 45.7 percent of e-cigarette market unit shares to Juul.

Nicotine: Addictive but not carcinogenic

Juul is increasingly viable as a safer alternative for smokers who are trying to quit. But it raises concerns about kids and e-cigarette experimentation.

For adults, nicotine is relatively benign; the tars resulting from tobacco combustion are deadly.

In 2000, the chair of a Public Health Service expert panel made the case that, if necessary, smokers could stay "on (nicotine replacement) medication for the rest of their lives because I know it saves lives." According to the Royal College of Physicians, nicotine is not a carcinogen.

But nicotine is a stimulant that can increases both heart rate and blood pressure, suggesting that "it may contribute to cardiovascular disease."

Nonetheless, over the counter nicotine replacement therapies have been established as safe and effective and are not associated with an increase in the risk of heart attacks.

Smoking has been established as a leading cause of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Thus, many in the public health and medical communities were prepared to accept lifelong dependence on nicotine replacement therapies like the patch and nicotine gum if they helped to sustain smoking cessation.

The American Cancer Society issued clinical guidelines acknowledging the potential of e-cigarettes to help smokers who have not been successful with going cold turkey or FDA approved nicotine replacement therapies. It notes that smokers who can't or won't quit "should be encouraged to switch to the least harmful form of tobacco product possible; switching to the exclusive use of e-cigarettes is preferable to continuing to smoke combustible products."

A different story for teens

Nicotine does, however, pose risks to the developing adolescent brain.

The American Cancer Society states that "the use of products containing nicotine in any form among youth is unsafe and can harm brain development."

Public health experts and organizations supportive of e-cigarettes as a promising harm reduction strategy for smokers and staunch opponents of e-cigarettes agree that kids should not be using any type of product containing nicotine.

For this reason, Juul may represent a new kind of risk when it comes to kids. And because it is small and generates little aerosol, it is easy to conceal and use without attracting attention.

Public health officials worry that vaping among teens can lead to cigarette smoking. Ostarcov Vladislav/Shutterstock.com

Juul has certainly captured teens' attention. A Truth Initiative study found that, in a national sample of 1,012 people aged 15-17, 7 percent reported ever having used a Juul.

Twenty-one percent of the kids in this age group also recognized a photograph of a Juul. Recognition (34 percent) and past 30-day use (11 percent) were higher among those in the sample who were more affluent. Kids who are just experimenting may not realize that Juul delivers nicotine as efficiently as a combustible product, potentially increasing their risk of addiction.

The backdrop of this growing attention is one in which data on children and vaping remains contested.

On the one hand, a landmark 2018 National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine report concluded that "there is substantial evidence that e-cigarette use increases risk of ever using combustible tobacco cigarettes amongst youth and young adults."

On the other, several years of painstaking, systematic reviews have led Public Health England to conclude: "Despite some experimentation with these devices among never smokers, e-cigarettes are attracting very few young people who have never smoked in to regular use."

Both groups, it is important to underscore, agree that for adults, e-cigarettes are substantially safer than combustible products.

In May 2018, the former chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Tobacco Consortium weighed in on the side of peril. Dr. Jonathan Winickoff described Juul in The New Yorker as nothing short of "bioterrorism" and declared that Juul already represents "a massive public-health disaster."

Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller sees promise in Juul and other products that deliver nicotine electronically.

Miller, a longtime consumer advocate, has argued that public health has an obligation to inform the public that e-cigarettes are substantially safer than combustible products. While Miller said that Juul gives "cause for concern" when it comes to kids "it has not reached panic or epidemic stages."

Meanwhile, the evidence on whether e-cigarettes help smokers quit remains limited and hotly contested. A recent New England Journal of Medicine study has done little to quell controversy.

Even as e-cigarettes continue to represent a increasing share of the tobacco market, smoking rates among adults and children continue to decline in both the U.K., where the lead public health agency has explicitly endorsed e-cigarettes, and the U.S.

Tobacco companies making their push

As companies like the Altria Group, which manufacturers Marlboro, and Imperial Tobacco Group, which produces Winston and Kool, are successful at mimicking Juul and "getting into the (nicotine) 'salt game,'" this will certainly fuel public health concerns that kids or even adults who never smoked will try a product like Juul and eventually graduate to a deadly combustible cigarette.

And, indeed, careful monitoring will remain an imperative.

When it comes to kids, even if they do not represent a step on the way to combustible products, any product that delivers nicotine as effectively as cigarettes will remain a public health concern.

And all e-cigarettes will continue to demand vigorous public health interventions, such as the April 2018 Food and Drug Administration's "undercover nationwide blitz to crack down on the sale of e-cigarettes."

But in my view, neither rigorous monitoring nor muscular efforts to prevent sales to kids make products like Juul as dangerous as cigarettes, which remain the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. Combustible products are a genuine cause for fear, for both smokers and kids alike.

The Conversation

The most vexing challenge that Juul poses may be to tolerance: How will we view adults looking to quit smoking who either cannot or will not give up the pleasures of nicotine? Will the old consensus that lifelong treatment is acceptable hold when it's a recreational rather than a pharmaceutical product?

Amy Lauren Fairchild is the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the School of Public Health; the Associate Vice President for Faculty and Academic Affairs at Texas A&M Health Science Center, and a professor of Health Policy & Management at Texas A&M University. She wrote this piece for The Conversation, where it first appeared.By Chris and Susan Demko

On a sunny July afternoon in Lancaster County, our beautiful 18-year old daughter Meredith was killed by a repeat DUI offender well known by the police, who was drunk, high on heroin and driving on a suspended license at the time of crash.

Immediately thereafter we were exposed to the reality of Pennsylvania's inadequate DUI laws and the resulting tragedies that continue to this day.

The magnitude of the problem is shown by the following Pennsylvania data:

12,300 impaired crashes that resulted in 9,000 injuries and 333 deaths annually (10-year average)

10,000+ individuals convicted of their 2

Repeat DUI offenders being responsible for approximately 40% of all DUI-related fatalities.

70,000 to 105,000 individuals continue to drive illegally on a DUI-related suspended license.

PA is consistently ranked as one of the most lenient states for DUI laws including 5

Today, Pennsylvanian legislators have an opportunity to enact a law that attacks high-risk DUI offenders who are responsible for far too many deaths and injuries across our state.

State Sen. John Rafferty, R-Montgomery, is sponsoring legislation that would tackle this problem. It is currently awaiting consideration in the House Judiciary Committee.

In short, Rafferty's bill would:

Target repeat DUI offenders who continue to drive impaired. Pennsylvania is one of only 4 states that do not classify repeat DUI offenses as a felony, regardless of an offender's prior DUI history. Rafferty's bill (SB961) would create a felony offense for DUI offenders committing their 4

Increase penalties for repeat DUI offenders that injure and kill while driving impaired. Today a repeat DUI offender is subject to no more than a 3-year minimum sentence for Homicide by Vehicle while DUI, which is same minimum sentence for a first time DUI offender. Rafferty's bill would increase the minimum sentence to 5 years if the offender was convicted of a prior DUI, and to 7 years if the offender was convicted of 2 or more prior DUIs.

Target individuals who drive with a DUI-related suspended license. Many individuals ignore the suspension and the option to drive legally via an ignition interlock/occupational license. Studies indicate that this high-risk group is responsible for up to 20 percent of fatal DUI crashes. Currently, these offenders are only subject to a $500 fine/60-day sentence (generally served at home), regardless of prior offenses. Rafferty's bill would increase the length of sentence and fine for 2

It should be noted that all DUI offenders are provided education and assessment/counseling for addiction/abuse.

Individuals who then choose to re-offend, must be held accountable for their deliberate decisions to drive impaired and risking the safety of all citizens.

Those who believe that Rafferty's bill is too harsh for these high-risk re-offenders, should talk to some of the families in our group, including two families who lost a child within a few hours of each other.

Liam Crowley, of Chester County, was killed by a 7-time DUI offender and Fire Chief Rodney Miller of York County, was killed in the line of duty by a 3-time DUI offender with a history of hit-and-run.

Unfortunately, increased penalties including incarceration is the most practical way to lower the risks of repeat DUI-related tragedies. To do nothing will result in more preventable deaths and injuries.

In closing, we ask that you contact your state representative and senator and ask for their support of Rafferty's legislation.

Studies show that 2 out of 3 people will be involved in a DUI crash during their lifetime, so please don't think that a DUI offender will not cause harm to you or your family, like the one that took away our beautiful daughter that sunny July afternoon.

Chris and Susan Demko are the co-founders of Pennsylvania Parents Against Impaired Driving (PAPAID) is a grass-roots organization of parents across Pennsylvania who have lost children to impaired drivers.

For more information on contacting your legislator or SB 961, visit their website: www.papaid.org.A Russian search and rescue team helicopter flies from the Kazakh town of Karaganda to Dzhezkazgan, on the eve of Russian Soyuz MS space capsule landing, Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan, Sunday, June 3, 2018. The return of the Soyuz space capsule with Russian cosmonaut Anton Shkaplerov, U.S. astronaut Scott Tingle, and Japanese astronaut Norishige Kanai, crew members of the mission to the International Space Station, ISS is scheduled on Sunday, June 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)ISSUES....

Inside, confidential and off the record



A fair win for Sanchez



EP/Video





The new socialist government in Madrid has a big opportunity.

Spain elected a hung parliament in 2016 and has not had another general election since. So it is tempting to say that one fragile Spanish government has simply been replaced by another after Spanish MPs voted on Friday to dismiss Mariano Rajoy's centre-right PP in a vote of no confidence . After all, the PP remains the largest single party, with 134 members of the 350-strong Congress of Deputies, while the new prime minister, Pedro Sanchez of the socialists, has only 84, and will be propped up by seven other left and regional parties in key votes.

The temptation to dismiss the change should be resisted. The first reason is that Mr Rajoy, a great survivor who had led Spain since 2011 through a recession and the eurozone debt crisis, deserved to go. Last week a court jailed one of his party's former treasurers for 33 years for fraud and money laundering and fined the PP itself for benefiting institutionally from kickbacks for public contracts in the so called Gurtel affair . Mr Rajoy had testified in the case, in which 29 defendants were jailed. After a corruption scandal on such a scale, it was entirely necessary that the party and its leader should be given their marching orders and a new government formed.

The second reason is that Mr Sanchez has come into office with political momentum on his side. After the 2016 election, in which the socialists lost seats, Mr Sanchez refused to support a new Rajoy minority government, which he accused of corruption. A long socialist party stalemate took place, as a result of which he was forced out of the leadership by moderates, who then abstained to permit Mr Rajoy to take office. A year ago, Mr Sanchez regained the party leadership . Now, in the aftermath of the corruption verdicts, he can claim to have been right all along.

A third reason why Mr Sanchez may hold on longer than the parliamentary numbers may imply is that his chief rival from the left, Podemos, has been faltering recently. The insurgent party's leader, Pablo Iglesias, has recently survived a confidence vote after being criticised for buying an expensive house outside Madrid, while Podemos has slipped in the polls.

But the big question in Spanish politics is whether the new socialist government and its allies can do what Mr Rajoy conspicuously failed to do and find a solution to the Catalan separatism crisis . Mr Sanchez supported his predecessor's tough approach last year when Mr Rajoy sacked the Catalan president Carles Puigdemont for holding an illegal independence referendum. But he told MPs in the no-confidence debate this week that he wanted dialogue with Mr Puigdemont's hardline successor, Quim Torra , providing it did not involve a breach with Spain.

This is a tantalising prospect, and Mr Sanchez would gain further esteem at home and abroad if he could strike a principled bargain with Barcelona. It is desirable that he has the chance. But he knows that any failure could mean an early general election in which, if current polls are to be believed, the initiative could pass to the centrist Cuidadanos party.



The Guardian Editorial / The Guardian / June 01, 2018







ISSUES.... 06/ 04/ 2018 - Send Us Your Issues



Inside, confidential and off the record



Is an independent journalist effort from Petroleumworld, on Inside, Confidential and Off The Record Information, the views are not necessarily those of Petroleumworld

Link to the Original Article



Richard N. Hass:

A North Korean opportunity for America and China

Fred Dufour/Brendan Smalowski/Oru Yamanaka/AFP

.



China and the US have a shared interest in making nuclear diplomacy

work and ensuring that any US-North Korean summit succeeds. A US-North Korean

summit that averted a crisis that would benefit neither the US nor China would

remind people in both countries of the value of Sino-American cooperation.

NEW YORK  It is not obvious, but North Korea could be the best thing for the relationship between the United States and China since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Whether or not that potential is realized, it is not difficult to understand why it exists.

The contemporary Sino-American relationship was born nearly a half-century ago on a foundation of shared concern about the threat posed to both countries by the Soviet Union. It was a textbook case of the old adage, The enemy of my enemy is my friend.

Such a relationship could survive just about anything  except the disappearance of the common enemy. And this is of course precisely what happened with the end of the Cold War in 1989 and the demise of the USSR at the beginning of 1992.

The US-China relationship, however, showed surprising resilience, finding a new rationale: economic interdependence. Americans were happy to buy vast quantities of relatively inexpensive Chinese manufactured goods, demand for which provided jobs for the tens of millions of Chinese who moved from poor agricultural areas to new or rapidly expanding cities.

For its part, the United States was mesmerized by the potential for exporting to the vast Chinese market, which was hungry for the more advanced products it wanted but could not yet produce. Many in the US also believed that trade would give China an increased stake in preserving the existing international order, increasing the odds that its rise as a major power would be peaceful. The related hope was that political reform would follow economic growth. Calculations such as these led to the US decision to support China's entry into the World Trade Organization in 2001.

Now, years later, the economic ties that had become the foundation of the Sino-American relationship have increasingly become a source of friction that threaten it. China exports far more to the US than it imports, contributing to the disappearance of millions of American jobs, and has not opened up its market as expected or delivered on promised reforms. Moreover, China's government continues to subsidize state-owned enterprises, and either steals intellectual property or requires its transfer to Chinese partners as a condition of foreign companies' access to the domestic market.

This critique of China is widely embraced by US Republicans and Democrats alike, even if they disagree with many of the remedies proposed by the Trump administration. And the criticism is not limited to economic affairs. There is growing concern in the US about China's increasing assertiveness beyond its borders. The Belt and Road Initiative appears to be less a development program than a geo-economic tool to expand Chinese influence. China's broad claims to the South China Sea and its creation of military bases there are viewed throughout the region as a provocation.

China's domestic political development has also disappointed observers. The abolition of the presidential term limit and President Xi Jinping's concentration of power have come as an unwelcome surprise to many. There are also concerns about the suppression of dissent (often cloaked in the guise of Xi's anti-corruption drive), the clampdown on civil society, and the repression of western China's Uighur and Tibetan minorities. The net result is that it is now commonplace for official US government documents to pair China with Russia and to speak of it as a strategic rival.

All of which brings us back to North Korea, whose nuclear weapons and long-range missiles are viewed by China as a genuine threat  not to itself, but to its regional interests. China does not want a conflict that would disrupt regional trade and lead to millions of refugees streaming across its border. It fears that such a war would end with a unified Korea firmly in America's strategic orbit. Nor does it want Japan and other neighbors to rethink their long-standing aversion to developing nuclear weapons of their own. The Chinese government also opposes South Korea's missile defense system (acquired from the US in response to North Korea's missile deployments), which China sees as a threat to its own nuclear deterrent.

The US does not want to live under the shadow of a North Korea that possesses long-range missiles capable of delivering nuclear payloads to American cities. At the same time, the US has no appetite for a war that would prove costly by every measure.

China and the US thus have a shared interest in making diplomacy work and ensuring that any US-North Korean summit succeeds. The question for China is whether it is prepared to put enough pressure on North Korea so that it accepts meaningful constraints on its nuclear and missile programs. The question for the US is whether it is willing to embrace a diplomatic outcome that stabilizes the nuclear situation on the Korean Peninsula but does not resolve it for the foreseeable future.

A US-North Korean summit that averted a crisis that would benefit neither the US nor China would remind people in both countries of the value of Sino-American cooperation. And the precedent of the world's two major powers working together to resolve a problem with regional and global implications might provide a foundation for the next era of a bilateral relationship that, more than any other, will define international politics in this century.





Richard N. Haass , President of the Council on Foreign Relations, previously served as Director of Policy Planning for the US State Department (2001-2003), and was President George W. Bush's special envoy to Northern Ireland and Coordinator for the Future of Afghanistan. He is the author of A World in Disarray: American Foreign Policy and the Crisis of the Old Order . Petroleumworld does not necessarily share these views.

Editor's Note: This commentary was originally published by Proyect-Syndicate on 06/1/2018. Petroleumworld reprint this article in the interest of our readers and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Petroleumworld and its owners.



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Petroleumworld News 06/04/18The Mitsubishi automobile plant in Normal, Ill., is seen in 2006. The plant, which closed in mid-2016, is now used by startup automaker Rivian Automotive. Read more

The start-up Rivian Automotive has secured a $200 million loan to begin producing electric vehicles at a former Mitsubishi plant in Normal, Ill., by 2020.

Company founder and CEO RJ Scaringe called the debt financing from Standard Chartered Bank an "important milestone" as Rivian seeks to gear up for its initial models  a fully electric five-passenger pickup truck and seven-passenger SUV. The Michigan-based company has yet to unveil a single vehicle design.

"Our launch vehicles have completed substantial development and are undergoing rigorous testing," Scaringe said in a news release. "The additional capital will enable us to ramp up towards production and bring our innovative products to the market in 2020."

Rivian has raised $450 million in financing to date, the company said, with other investors including the Saudi company Abdul Latif Jameel and Sumitomo Corporation of Americas.

In addition to $4 million in local incentives, Rivian is set to receive $49.2 million in state tax credits over 15 years if it meets employment and investment targets for the Normal facility. Those goals include creating 1,000 jobs by 2024.

To qualify, Rivian must have 35 new employees in Normal by December, 465 employees by 2021, and 1,000 new employees by 2024. The automaker also must hit undisclosed capital investment targets, "all of which must be met to gain the annual tax incentive," said Jacquelyn Reineke, a spokeswoman for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Founded in 2009, Rivian employs about 350 people at its Michigan headquarters, California technology and engineering operations, and the 2.6 million-square-foot former Mitsubishi plant in Normal, which the company bought for $16 million in cash from a liquidation firm in January 2017. About 50 employees are based in Normal, the company said Thursday.

Mitsubishi ended production at the plant in 2015 after years of dwindling sales.

Lured by $249 million in state and local incentives, Mitsubishi opened the Normal plant in 1988 as a joint venture with Chrysler, producing sport coupes and later, sedans. Mitsubishi bought out Chrysler's stake in the joint venture in 1991 but continued to supply the Detroit automaker with its cars through 2005.

In its heyday, the Normal plant produced more than 200,000 vehicles per year, while staffing levels reached about 4,000.

By the time Mitsubishi decided to close the plant in July 2015, annual production had fallen to 64,000 vehicles, while the workforce was down to 1,280 full-time employees.

Reviving the Mitsubishi plant is part of an ambitious, if still somewhat shrouded, business plan for Rivian, which has assembled a leadership team of automotive and technology executives headed by the entrepreneurial Scaringe, 35, who earned a doctorate in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2009.

The company is joining an increasingly crowded field of electric and autonomous automakers that includes everyone from Tesla and Google to General Motors, Ford, and Fiat Chrysler.

The future for Rivian begins with an electric pickup and SUV, which are reportedly going to be unveiled at the Los Angeles auto show in December. The company would not confirm that but offered some details as to what consumers can expect from the new vehicles, including self-driving features that will evolve as the technology moves forward.

"Rivian's vehicles will be suitable for all of life's adventures while enabling consumers to experience mobility in a whole new way," said Jiten Behl, Rivian's chief strategy officer. "Our vehicles will come with autonomous capabilities at launch which will continually advance over time."Referring to recent protests in Stepanakert, the countrys capital, the Artsakh Ministry of Defense has published a statement calling on citizens to refrain from any actions that threaten the security of the people.

The protests began on June 1 after an incident in which members of the Artsakh National Security Service (NSS) assaulted two citizens in response to an earlier confrontation between an NSS officer and residents.

That night, in response, protesters blocked a main road in Stepanakert leading to the central bus station.

Scores of demonstrators gathered outside the Stepanakert central bus station the following day, calling for the resignation of the heads of all police and other enforcement units other than the army.

On June 3, a delegation from the protesters met with Artsakh President Bako Sahakyan.

People continued to demonstrate near the bus station, with many calling for Sahakyans resignation.

The protesters are demanding the release of all political prisoners in Armenia and calls for uniting Artsakh with the Republic of Armenia are increasing.

The ministrys statement in part reads:

Accepting the absolute supremacy of the constitutional rights of every citizen and regarding any manifestation of violence as unacceptable and condemnable, the Artsakh Ministry of Defense urges all to refrain from taking any dangerous steps that will further artificially aggravate the domestic state of affairs in our country that already faces external threats and to seek purley legal solutions.The Kline Institute of Trial Advocacy is located in the former Beneficial Bank at 12th and Chestnut, completed in 1918 by architect Horace Trumbauer. Read more

If a corner building on a narrow urban site wants to assert itself, it had better stand up straight and speak in a forceful voice. Architect Horace Trumbauer's columned neoclassical temple at 12th and Chestnut did just that in the early 20th century for Beneficial Bank, which catered to Philadelphia's immigrant workers. And now it's teaching the same lesson to Drexel University's aspiring trial lawyers.

After sitting empty for a dozen years, the handsome, white granite building has been brought back to life by Drexel's Thomas R. Kline School of Law, which will use the building to teach courtroom skills. To give students the experience of practicing before a judge and jury, the architects at Tackett & Co. fitted out the former bank with five authentic courtrooms where professors can stage mock trials. Because the spaces can do double duty as regular classrooms, the building, known as the Kline Institute of Trial Advocacy, also serves as a lavish Center City campus for the law school.

Trumbauer's Beneficial Bank opened on Armistice Day in 1918, at the end of World War I, and has always stood out among Chestnut Street's more retail-focused buildings. Part of the reason is the building's scale: The thick Ionic columns rise nearly 40 feet as they march down 12th Street. What's interesting is the way Trumbauer extracted drama from the much narrower Chestnut Street side, in a tight urban streetscape. Although there is enough room for only two columns to flank a set of bronze entry doors, the procession up the short flight of steps into the soaring banking hall makes you feel like royalty.

The 40-foot-high banking floor, which once housed a large, circular tellers' desk, had become quite dingy over the years, but the renovation has restored its dazzling brightness. The architects extended an existing mezzanine to make room for an 80-seat courtroom. Because the glass wall enclosing the space is nearly invisible, the courtroom appears to hover over the former banking floor. The use of glass also ensures that visitors are still able to enjoy a full view of the banking hall, with its decorative blue-and-gold ceiling medallions. The architects also discreetly tucked a new staircase along the west wall of the hall.

Overseen by Powers & Co., a preservation consultant, every aspect of the renovation is meticulously executed. To preserve the architectural details, Tackett camouflaged the sprinkler and security systems, reused the original pendant lights, and created custom acoustical panels. None of this came cheap. The $23 million project was funded out of a $50 million donation that Kline made to the law school in 2014.

Kline, a crusading litigator who has won a series of high-profile personal injury cases, including one involving a boy who lost his foot on a faulty SEPTA escalator, actually acquired the building two years before he made the gift to Drexel's law school. "I was celebrating my 65th birthday and I decided to buy it as a present to myself," Kline explained during a tour.

At the time, he had no plans for the 20,000-square-foot building. But he had become fond of the structure when he worked nearby, in the office of James E. Beasley Sr., another fearsome and successful personal-injury lawyer who had also endowed a law school (Temple University, in his case).

Beasley was an early preservationist who rescued an important historic building, the Episcopal Church House at 12th and Walnut. He turned it into his office in 1986, long before such conversions had become common. In emulating his mentor, Kline has created a worthy bookend to that landmark.

The Beneficial renovation is both a shrine to one of democracy's bedrock values, trial by jury  and to Kline's career. A life-size sculpture of the lawyer, executed in white carrara marble by Christopher Collins, stands sentry near the entrance, and a small museum devoted to his career is being assembled on the bank's office floor. Exhibit A is an escalator, similar to the one in the SEPTA case.

Solid, neoclassical banks like Trumbauer's are often seen as architectural expressions of America's democratic values. In its new life as a law school, the renovated bank has become more than a symbol of those beliefs. It now plays a role in defending them.U.S President Donald Trump speaks to the press after meeting with Kim Yong Chol, former North Korean military intelligence chief and one of leader Kim Jong Un's closest aides, on the South Lawn of the White House last Friday, Read more

It sounds bad when you describe it this way: The president of the United States explicitly violating a government rule to divulge secret jobs data, causing a billions-of-dollars move in the world's financial markets. It's become something of a tired cliche (which, of course, plays right into the scheme) to point out that if Barack Obama or George W. Bush had done this, it would have sparked angry denunciations, wall-to-wall coverage on cable news, and maybe a congressional hearing or two.

But when President Donald J. Trump (as our leader likes to casually refer to himself) does it, it's pretty far down the weekly list of rule-breaking, "norm"-shattering, dignity-obliteration, truth-abolition and assorted misdemeanors and occasional high crimes that have not only defined America's 45th presidency, but have flooded the system and short-circuited the ability of our institutions such as the media, Congress and the courts to process it all in real time.

Why did Trump tweet, "Looking forward to seeing the employment numbers at 8:30 this morning" on Friday, tipping off the American people  and investors  that the jobs numbers he'd previewed the night before would be good news? Was Trump aware that his tweet  69 minutes before the Labor Department released the report  violated not only long-standing presidential practice but a 1985 rule laid down by the Office of Management and Budget? Possibly not. Does Trump, with his clique of billionaire friends, give anyone else this insider information? Who is going to check?

The main reason that Trump violates long-standing norms and established rules, or tells so many easily disprovable lies from the presidential podium, is because he knows that no one will stop him. And that exercise of unchallenged power isn't just a weird quirk of the Trump presidency. It is, rather, its driving force.

One word describes the massive erosion of American democracy that's accelerated in recent days. And I'm not talking about anything that Roseanne Barr tweeted or even the C-word (which, by the way, is uncalled for and never appropriate)  the epithets that managed to dominate the TV news cycle in a culture that loves fighting its culture wars.

No, I'm talking about forbearance, and if that word lulls you to sleep, maybe that's part of the problem. What that term means  and it's laid out brilliantly by political scientists Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt in their 2018 best seller with the chilling title, How Democracies Die  is "not deploying one's institutional prerogatives to the hilt, even if it's legal to do so." In other words, an American president can launch a nuclear first strike, add justices to pack the Supreme Court, fire prosecutors investigating him or his family or, failing that, issue full pardons to his allies or even perhaps himself. There are no laws and clauses in the Constitution to stop him from doing these things. Only tradition and a sense of what's right and what's good for America.

The American experiment has survived for 242 years because even past presidents who violated some of our democratic norms in the worst ways possible still held onto this larger sense of forbearance. Even Richard Nixon, who spied on his enemies and obstructed justice when his burglars were caught, turned over the White House tapes when the Supreme Court ordered him to do so and resigned when the evidence on those tapes was incriminating.

But Trump is already doing some of the dangerous things described above. Forbearance is not in his vocabulary. Here's three unusually alarming things from just last week.

 Trump is abusing his pardon power to reward his friends and other high-profile celebrities. If the president is deploying any of his institutional prerogatives "to the hilt," it's the blanket power to issue pardons and clemency in federal cases, as granted by the Constitution. That power is a remarkable opportunity to overturn a perceived past injustice and reward redemption  but also to benefit a president's cronies, or even help protect the chief executive himself from prosecution.

One of the so-called democratic norms that's evolved over American history is a formal pardon-review process to prevent the potential abuses. Past presidents waited on recommendations from the Justice Department's Office of the Pardon Attorney  a lengthy process that typically includes a five-year waiting period to allow an applicant to prove he or she is contributing to society. The process has sometimes sparked frustration; many urged Obama, for example, to move sooner than he did to right some of the excesses of the latter 20th-century "war on drugs."

Trump has paid no attention to process, or tradition. He's issued pardons for people not yet brought to justice  the Arizona ex-sheriff Joe Arpaio, a Trump supporter who's shown no remorse for the charges that he defied court orders to racially profile Latinos  and people who aren't giving back to society, like the also remorseless and generally despicable, conservative, outrage-generator Dinesh D'Souza, pardoned just last week. The only guiding principle, it seems, is being a friend or political supporter of Trump or  in the (deserved) case of late boxer Jack Johnson  getting recommended by a celebrity friend of Trump, Sylvester Stallone.

This week, the president made headlines by meeting in the Oval Office with fellow reality-TV icon Kim Kardashian West, who appealed for criminal justice reform and pleaded for a pardon for Alice Marie Johnson, a 63-year-old great-grandmother and model inmate, volunteering in her prison's hospice, serving a life sentence for a first-time, nonviolent drug arrest. Trump listened  and then instead went out and pardoned D'Souza and told reporters he might issue clemency or a pardon for two people he worked with on TV's The Celebrity Apprentice, former Illinois govenor Rod Blagojevich and lifestyle guru Martha Stewart.

Each Trump pardon  technically legal, even as they obliterate any sense of process or fairness  lowers our resistance for the day when Trump may offer a pardon to players in the scandals surrounding his own 2016 presidential campaign or his close allies. If and when  and Trump's recent moves are pointing to "when"  a pardon is issued to someone like already-pleaded-guilty ex-national security adviser Michael Flynn or under-investigation Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, Trump will surely say they were "treated very unfairly"  just like his TV pal Blago.

 Trump's lawyers are now out there openly saying they believe the president of the United States is above the law. This weekend, the New York Times published a 20-page letter that Trump's personal attorneys sent to special counsel Robert Mueller seeking to avoid an interview with the prosecutor, which includes the stunning claim that it's impossible for the White House to obstruct justice because, in the end, the president is justice.

The secret letter, drafted in January, argues that Trump has sweeping constitutional powers, including the ability to kill off a probe into criminality in his own campaign  to, "if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon." That means, they argue, it's also within Trump's rights to fire Mueller or the prosecutors overseeing him  even though a similar move by Nixon in 1973 triggered a flurry of impeachment resolutions.

L'Etat, c'est moi. Trump and his lawyers are claiming the rights, and the powers, of a king  not a democratically elected president. The lesson of Watergate and Nixon's ultimate resignation was supposed to be that no president is above the law  a lesson that got muddled when Gerald Ford pardoned Nixon. Forty-four years later, Team Trump is dropping an H-bomb on what's left of that apparently quaint notion.

 It's easy to overlook that the pace of Trump's assorted untruths and out-and-out lies is actually increasing. The Washington Post last month reported that the president had made 3,251 false or misleading claims since becoming president. Just last week, Trump allegedly made 35 false statements at one rally in Nashville. Among the week's more outrageous Trump lies is an Orwellian claim that the administration's new policy of prosecuting immigrant asylum seekers at the border and taking their kids away is somehow the fault of a law passed by Democrats.

Trump is wearing down the American people, one lie at a time. He is chipping away at our notion of what constitutes American justice, one crony pardon at a time. And he is eroding the foundation of our democracy, to make it so weak that by the time he makes his inevitable moves to nullify the Mueller investigation, the remaining frayed house of cards may be too weak to fight back.

Trump is doing very little with his presidency but to dictate things. He wakes up every morning and dictates lies, then he dictates arbitrary justice, and then he dictates unilateral policies  trade wars with our allies in Canada or in Europe, requiring power plants to burn dirty fuels like coal, or ripping little kids from their mommies and daddies at the border  that could never win political or legislative support, because they lack common sense or morality, or both.

Hour by hour, lie by lie, dictate by dictate, Donald Trump is becoming an American dictator. And recent days have proved what many of us have long feared: That no one knows how to stop this. Not the Republicans or Democrats on Capitol Hill who, for different reasons, are too cowed politically to take substantive action. And not a news media that doesn't have the mechanisms for informing the public when a president is a compulsive liar. Maybe things will change after the November midterm election  but there's no guarantee, and that feels like a long time away.

The best we can do right now is write down this week's outrages (as some intrepid souls, especially Amy Siskind, started doing on Day One) and create the record for future generations that will wonder how the hell this possibly happened. And brace ourselves for the week to come.A novel virus, moderately contagious and moderately lethal, has surfaced and is spreading rapidly around the globe. Outbreaks first appear in Frankfurt, Germany and Caracas, Venezuela. The virus is transmitted person-to-person, primarily by coughing. There are no effective antivirals or vaccines. American troops stationed abroad are infected. Now the first case to reach the United States had been identified on a small college campus in Massachusetts.

So began a recent daylong exercise hosted by the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. The simulation mixed details of past disasters with fictional elements to force government officials and experts to make the kinds of key decisions they could face in a real pandemic.

It was a tense day. The exercise was inspired in part by the troubled response to the Ebola epidemic of 2014, and everyone involved was acutely aware of the very real and ongoing Ebola outbreak spreading in Congo.

In the simulation, a bipartisan group of current and former high-ranking U.S. government officials played a team of presidential advisers faced with a host of real-world policy, political and ethical dilemmas. The actors included former Senate majority leader Tom Daschle, D-S.D., who played the Senate majority leader, and Rep. Susan Brooks, R-Ind., who played herself. They had to react as the outbreak unfolded according to a script provided by Johns Hopkins, with no advance knowledge about how the mock disaster would play out.

They faced difficult questions throughout the exercise: Should the United States impose a travel ban on flights from Germany and Venezuela? If not, they faced the problem of explaining that decision to the American public and Congress in the face of political pressure to act. Should the United States send troops to Jordan, where a major outbreak has occurred and the key Middle East ally is requesting assistance? Once a vaccine is developed, who should get it first? Should priority go to officials, to ensure continuity of government, or to children and pregnant women? Or should there be a lottery?

There were no easy answers. That was the point of the day-long exercise, held in a darkened hotel ballroom before a rapt invitation-only audience of about 150 people and livestreamed on Facebook. There were experts from academia and think tanks, and officials from across the U.S. government, including the White House, defense and intelligence communities, health and security agencies and Congress.

Tom Inglesby, director of the Johns Hopkins center, said the purpose of the exercise was to "provide experiential learning" for new decision-makers in the Trump administration. But many of the hard issues have remained unresolved for several administrations.

"There are a lot of moving pieces in the world of pandemic preparedness at the moment," he said. Chief among those issues, he said, are questions about the extent of U.S. support for global health issues and the role of the national security community.

Even though many players in the scenario had decades of experience in health security and national and global policy and law, "there were still so many unanswered questions and capability gaps," said Beth Cameron, formerly senior director for global health security and biodefense at the National Security Council under President Barack Obama. Cameron, who was in the audience, is vice president for global biological policy at the Nuclear Threat Initiative.

If the fictional outbreak, or one even less deadly, emerged tomorrow, she said, "we would be facing the scenario with a new Cabinet untested by a major outbreak."

Unlike Ebola, which spreads through direct contact and bodily fluids, the "Clade X" virus in the Johns Hopkins simulation was a flu-like respiratory virus, which would spread far more easily from person to person through coughing and sneezing. That's how the 1918 influenza pandemic spread. It killed more than 50 million people and is the deadliest pandemic in history. (If you ask infectious disease experts what they fear most, without fail they answer: "pandemic influenza.")

The fictional outbreak kept getting worse. It had a 10 percent fatality rate, about the same as the SARS virus that traveled around the world in 2002-2003. Because the virus in the drill was new, no one had previous immunity to it, and it spread quickly in large cities. As it killed more than 100 million people globally, health-care systems collapsed, panic spread, the U.S. stock market crashed, and the president, members of Congress and the Supreme Court were incapacitated.

"We didn't want to have a Disney ending," Inglesby said. "We wanted to have a plausible scenario. We did know it would be jarring."

Over the course of the day, the 10 experts played the roles of U.S. officials in a series of simulated National Security Council-convened meetings. They acted the parts of a national security adviser, the secretaries of health and human services, state, homeland security and defense, attorney general and the directors of the Central Intelligence Agency and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There were also two members of Congress. Inglesby played the national security adviser.

The advisers were asked to give recommendations to a fictional president (who remained offstage). They received briefings and news reports as the exercise progressed. Their consensus advice was repeatedly ignored and overridden by the president for short-term political reasons.

In real life, NSC meetings would not include members of Congress. But the political leaders consistently highlighted the political pressures and the need to communicate tough policy decisions effectively, in the judgment of health security experts who watched the exercise.

The fictional outbreak was revealed to be a virus engineered in a Swiss lab by a terrorist group. In another grabbed-from-the-headlines twist, the terrorists had inserted deadly genes from the Nipah virus, a rare brain-damaging virus. In real life, a Nipah outbreak in southern India has killed at least 13 people this month. In the exercise, schools closed, the demand for surgical masks and respirators far exceeded supply, and hospitals in the United States were quickly overwhelmed  just as many were by a bad flu season this year.

When the players were informed that the virus has spread to Bethesda, Maryland, part of the terrorists' plan to sabotage the National Institutes of Health, there was an audible groan from the audience.

There was universal agreement among the players on the need for a single senior official to coordinate federal agencies' responses and weigh the sometimes competing interests of health security, politics and foreign policy. The person needed to be above the agencies and have the ear of the president.

As panic spread and riots took place, Brooks, the Indiana congresswoman, said: "We have to have someone working on this day in and day out. I have advocacy groups lining up and coming in one after another. They want vaccines to be prioritized. They do not understand what's going on."

The Johns Hopkins pandemic exercise, as some of the audience members noted, took place one week after the top White House official responsible for leading the U.S. response in the event of a deadly pandemic left the administration and the global health security team he oversaw was disbanded under a reorganization by national security adviser John Bolton.

By the end of the exercise, failure to develop a vaccine within 20 months had led to 150 million deaths globally, or about 2 percent of the world's population. Players underscored the need for the United States to "go from bug to drug faster," said Jim Talen, a former Republican senator from Missouri who played the defense secretary.

Added Tara O'Toole, a former top Homeland Security Department official who played the homeland security secretary: "We are in an age of epidemics, but we aren't treating them like the national security issues that they are."

One aspect that deserved more attention, participants and experts said, was the need for officials to be proactive on social media to counter misinformation.

"With social media and 24-hour cable and an environment in which experts and the value of science is increasingly questioned, we just can't assume in a crisis that we can get up and talk to the American people," said Margaret Hamburg, a former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, who played the health and human services secretary. Otherwise, she said, "it's an environment where one thing that goes out in the media can suddenly mushroom, and before you know it, everything you're doing in the most scientific way can be derailed.Loveis Wise, who illustrated the cover of the New Yorker's 2018 Summer Fiction issue, says to her, illustration is about accessibility. Read more

At the beginning of every year, Loveis Wise creates a chart of intentions, a visual interpretation of how she wants her year to play out.

In 2017, as a junior at the University of the Arts, she hoped to start working as an illustrator. She wanted to land a steady stream of freelance assignments, with no breaks in between. She pulled it off.

This year? The 23-year-old wrote that she wanted to work for the New Yorker.

Just three weeks after graduation, Wise's Nurture is the cover of the magazine's Summer Fiction issue.

She's one of the first black women to illustrate the cover of the New Yorker, Francoise Mouly, the New Yorker's art director, confirmed, and Wise said she may be the first black female illustrator to get on the cover. (Kara Walker illustrated the New Yorker's cover in 2007 but Wise pointed out that she's known more as a fine artist.)

Wise, who grew up in Southeast Washington, D.C. and Prince George's County in Maryland, said she feels as if her cover shows the power of words, the power of writing down your intentions.

"Your words are a spell," says Wise, whose first name, after her great grandmother, is pronounced "Love Is."

A few days after the New Yorker issue hit newsstands, I visited Wise in her West Philadelphia apartment, where she lives with her partner. They had recently moved in and Wise said the walls still felt bare, though many of her illustrations, which play with color, shape, and texture, adorned the apartment. She wore a rose-colored crystal on a chain around her neck, one so big it was almost distracting, and a mess of patterns  stripes, galaxy print, and florals, which, she reminded me, are illustrations, too.

You were working all throughout your senior year at UArts?

I needed to take care of myself. I don't come from a lot of money. I wanted to see if I could do it on my own, and I did, crazily enough.

Were you pitching yourself?

No, I didn't know even how to do that yet. I was just making [work] and putting it out there on Instagram and then Women Who Draw came along, this amazing platform by Wendy MacNaughton and Julia Rothman, and art directors were looking for people there. That's how I got my first job, with [women's news site] Refinery29.

Last year, you were at school, you were working, and were you doing your own art, too?

Yeah. It taught me a lot about how to self-care. Early on, I felt super guilty if I did not work, like, every moment I could. I'd wake up in the middle of night and feel like, I could be working right now.

How'd you get over that?

My partner got tired of me waking him up at 3 a.m. [laughs] But loved ones, also, they talked to me. I realized, you shouldn't be so hard on yourself. Be patient with yourself. My best pieces come from me realizing that I needed to take better care of myself.

In your Q&A with the New Yorker, you said it was hard to put all of yourself in your work. What did you mean by that?

I was still exploring who I was as a person. You can't put that part of yourself in your work if you don't know who you are yet. Before, I would get caught up in making images that showed who I wanted to be or that portrayed this, not false happiness, but it was too idealistic. Now I want to make things that feel real, real narratives or things I've experienced, or those around me have experienced, or of voices that are often shut out.

What's an example of that?

The New Yorker cover. I touched on motherhood. My mom just had a baby three days ago, my brother, and I've been thinking a lot about the women in my life who got me to this point, like my grandmothers and my mom and my aunts.

You talked a bit about your mother in your New Yorker interview, how she was nervous about you going into art.

I was always into art but it wasn't encouraged for me to do that as a career. Because we didn't know the possibilities. Also, there's a lack of representation and awareness of who can make it in these spaces.

When I decided I want to go to school and be trained formally, my mom was apprehensive. But she saw how much I loved it. She was like, "OK, I trust you. I think you can do it too. Just pay off your loans." Which I still hope I can do. [laughs]

Wait, how did the New Yorker thing happen? Did Francoise reach out to you?

Yes. I burst out into tears [when I got the email]. I was in my apartment, working, and I checked my email, and I was, like, 'How did this happen?' She asked me to submit a few sketches. I didn't expect it to happen so soon. And I had just taken a workshop with Kadir Nelson, who does a lot of New Yorker covers.

How do you explain illustration to someone who doesn't know anything about it?

I communicate things visually in an accessible way. As opposed to fine art, which doesn't have to be accessible. That's why I'm so influenced by Kerry James Marshall and Mickalene Thomas because their work was very representational. It communicated those narratives I was seeing at home. I knew I could see myself in that work.

With illustration, people can see it in more spaces. You see illustration in packaging, you see illustration in your first children's book when you're a child. It's everywhere in society. I wanted something that everyone could connect with in some way. With fine art, you can go to a museum to see it but not everyone can afford a ticket to the museum, not everyone has the education or the knowledge about what makes that work special.

What's your process like?

I start in a sketchbook. Then I take a photo of it and draw it in Photoshop, using a Wacom tablet. I'll listen to podcasts while I work, like The Read, Sooo Many White Guys, The Friend Zone, Still Processing, 2 Dope Queens.

Tell me about an important part of the aesthetic of your work.

I'm crazy about texture. There's always a kind of scratchy feel, something that feels kind of chalky  visually. Because there's nothing squeaky clean about the way that I am. I'm naturally clumsy . I'm super messy. It feels closest to my hand to have that bit of texture in there, which is important because I'm working through a digital medium.

What's it like illustrating journalism or essays?

Sometimes, I overthink it, like, am I really communicating what they need me to? Especially personal essays. I was illustrating a lot of essays for PhilaPrint's zine. There are a lot of narratives of people of color being drawn by white people. It's OK, it's fine. But I think the work comes out a lot better with someone who can relate to the writing.MAYS LANDING, N.J.  The Hamilton Mall reopened on schedule Sunday following an early shutdown Saturday night prompted by a number of fights.

The Press of Atlantic City reports that an incident involving teenagers outside the mall and a fight between two females inside had occurred a few hours earlier Saturday.

But at about 8 p.m. Saturday, a fight started in the food court and chairs and debris were thrown as officers were trying to escort multiple groups of juveniles out. After that, several fights broke out.

Five juvenile males and two adult males were arrested on disorderly conduct charges. A Hamilton Township police supervisor was assaulted and left with minor injuries.

Mall spokeswoman Crystal Rodriguez said there was no damage to the mall or any of its stores.Mariya Plekan, who five years ago was buried for 13 hours in the rubble of the collapsed Salvation Army thrift store at 22nd and Market Streets in Center City Philadelphia, is interviewed at home on Friday, May 11, 2018. Read more

Epiphanies come in many forms.

For Mariya Plekan, 57, it came in the form of a 3-year-old boy attending her granddaughter's birthday party earlier this year. The boy was curious about  and a little frightened of  the lady in a wheelchair who had no legs and the stub of a breathing tube protruding from her neck.

"Does it hurt?" he asked.

Plekan smiled at the boy, she recalled last month. She put a special amplifier to the side of her neck, and an electronic voice replied: "No, it doesn't hurt."

The boy was satisfied and went back to the party, but a bond had formed. Throughout the afternoon he returned to Plekan's side and stayed with her.

"He couldn't stay away," said Plekan.

How do you find your future after you were buried alive for 13 hours and resigned yourself to death? How do you go forward, after being rescued but so horribly injured that surgeons had to amputate both legs at the hip to save your life  after surgery upon surgery, and repeated hospitalizations for near-fatal infections, and then returning to a nursing home for months until the next infection?

Sometimes you find life just by living it, learning to again enjoy the companionship of family and friends, the joy of a trip outside in warm weather, visiting a local supermarket or mall.

"I don't want to give up," Plekan said in her first interview since a February 2017 settlement of lawsuits filed on behalf of the seven who died and the 12 injured in the demolition collapse that crushed a Salvation Army thrift store in Center City.

Her wish for the future is simple: "I just want to not end up in the hospital again. I love kids near me, people's warmth."

Tuesday will mark five years since the building collapse, one of the worst disasters in Philadelphia's history. Officially, the anniversary will be marked by the dedication of a memorial park, a project led by former City Treasurer Nancy Winkler and her husband, Jay Bryan, whose daughter Anne Bryan, a 24-year-old aspiring artist, died in the collapse. A ceremony will take place from 11 a.m. to noon at the former site of the thrift store at 22nd and Market Streets.

The collapse also has resulted in several important changes in demolition rules at the city's Department of Licenses and Inspections  changes that some involved in the collapse litigation say might have prevented the tragedy.

Notably, the new rules require that contractors asked to demolish large buildings must have experience and must show proof of insurance and a bond before they get permits to begin demolishing a building.

L&I spokeswoman Karen Guss said demolitions must now undergo a series of mandated safety inspections. Since the collapse, L&I has increased its staff of inspectors by 58 percent and become the first U.S. city to adopt the 2018 state-of-the-art International Building Code. She said the city has enacted 52 bills and adopted 18 new procedures changing the way L&I does business.

The contractors also must file an engineering-sound demolition safety plan with the city before taking down a building. The demolition contractor responsible for the collapse had no experience on large commercial structures, and was unlicensed and uninsured.

Although they were sought by Winkler and Bryan, the changes are cold comfort for the loss of a beloved daughter. So too for the 12 survivors  especially Plekan, the most grievously injured and permanently disabled among them.



In addition to Anne Bryan, the building collapse claimed six other lives: Roseline Conteh, 52, a nurse and immigrant from Sierra Leone; Bobor Davis, 68, a Salvation Army employee; Kimberly Finnegan, 35, a cashier working her first shift at the thrift store; Juanita Harmon, 75, a retired secretary at the University of Pennsylvania; Mary Simpson, 24, an audio engineer who had been shopping with Bryan; and Danny C. Johnson, 59, a truck driver and father of five who lived for 23 days after he was pulled out of the rubble,

On June 12, 2013, L&I inspector Ronald Wagenhoffer, 52, who had been responsible for inspecting the demolition site, was found dead in his truck with a gunshot to the chest. His death was ruled a suicide.



June 5 is the date when Mariya Plekan exchanged her identity  Ukrainian immigrant, widow, mother of two, grandmother  for the title of "Miracle on Market Street," the last survivor pulled from the thrift-store rubble.

Plekan was pinned so tightly by broken beams and masonry that she could do little more than to gasp for air through a small hole and cry out for help. No one heard her. Her cellphone rang repeatedly as desperate relatives and friends tried to contact her. She could not move her arms enough to answer it.

Her agony began at 10:42 a.m., when demolition workers tearing down an abandoned building next door triggered the collapse, and three to four stories of an unsupported brick wall toppled and flattened the thrift store. Six people died instantly.

.

At 11:45 p.m., long after 11 other survivors were rescued and the noisy, heavy machinery had been shut down, Philadelphia Fire Capt. John O'Neill, a search and rescue specialist, stood on the rubble above Plekan. The pile moved, and Plekan made one more attempt, calling out a weak "help." A rescue dog barked, and O'Neill called for firefighters and began the job of exhuming Plekan from her tomb.

She was alive, but barely. The collapse had folded her into a squatting position. Blood had stopped circulating in her legs, raising the risk of sepsis as soon as she was freed.

Doctors at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania performed what was called a "guillotine amputation," surgically removing the lower half of her body including her hip joints.

Plekan's life was saved, but it was just the start. More than 30 surgeries would follow, as would hospitalizations for kidney failure and lung problems. Months spent on a respirator ended her ability to speak without electronic amplification.

For the next four years, Plekan's life consisted of shuttling between the hospital and her new home at St. Ignatius Nursing & Rehab Center, at 4401 Haverford Ave. in West Philadelphia.

Her only excursions into the outside world were to testify in legal proceedings: the criminal trial of two demolition workers convicted for their roles in the collapse, and the civil trial of consolidated lawsuits against the Salvation Army, the owner of the building being demolished, his demolition architect, and others.

The civil trial lasted 17 weeks, from fall 2016 until Jan. 31, 2017, when the Philadelphia Common Pleas Court jury of 12 found all five individual and corporate defendants liable for the deaths and injuries caused by the collapse.

Plekan's lawyer, Andrew J. Stern, of the Center City firm of Kline & Specter P.C., was the lead lawyer in the case against the Salvation Army. His argument convinced the jury, which found that the charity bore 75 percent of the liability to the victims, including Plekan, who had been a regular shopper at the store.

The jury began hearing evidence to decide on the amount of money to award each of the plaintiffs, but on Feb. 8, 2017, the parties settled for a total of $227 million.

After the trial, the plaintiffs' lawyers asked Jerry P. Roscoe, a Center City lawyer and arbitrator, to decide how to allocate the $227 million. In May 2017, Roscoe announced his decision, which included $95.6 million for Plekan.

At trial, Stern told the jury that Plekan's medical care since the collapse had already run into the millions of dollars and estimated her future medical costs would be about $50 million.

She requires round-the-clock medical care. Even the most mundane task could turn into a life-threatening situation. Without hips or even partial leg muscles, it was difficult for Plekan to maintain her balance in a sitting position. Once, in the nursing home, she testified at the civil trial, she was brushing her teeth when she lost her balance and fell to the floor. She again found herself crying out for help and waiting for it to arrive.

After the verdict, Stern said, some involved in the litigation questioned whether his estimate of the cost of her future care was realistic. They argued that now, "she was going to be fine," Stern said.

"The reality is that she's tough as nails, but she's been going back into the hospital frequently," Stern said, adding that Plekan is "in a very precarious position because she needs ongoing care and money to take care of her. I'm glad the arbitrator ultimately evaluated the case the way that he did and gave her what she deserved."

The first thing the money did for Plekan was to enable her to leave the St. Ignatius nursing home, which, despite its specialized services, could not meet all the demands her care required.



Before the collapse, Plekan had lived in a two-story brick rowhouse on North Franklin Street in Hunting Park, the house to which she had come from Ukraine in 2002 to care for her late husband's aged aunt and her aunt's husband. Although Plekan continued to live there after her in-laws died, the house was not suitable, or easily adaptable, for someone with Plekan's new physical disabilities.

Last December, Plekan bought a house in Huntingdon Valley that has large rooms, wide halls, and a bedroom for her off the living room. It also has room for her round-the-clock nurse and space for her daughter, Natalia; her son-in-law, Ihor Holovchak; and the couple's two children, Victoria, now 6, and Yuri, now 5 weeks old.

Plekan, however, had barely been settled in the house when she was rushed back to HUP to treat kidney stones and an infection, which her injuries had made chronic.

She remained in the hospital for three months, at one point becoming so ill that she "appeared to be lapsing into a coma," Stern said.

Now, in an interview in the dining room of her new home, Plekan seems finally to be adjusting to life outside a hospital room.

"I'm very happy because I'm not in the nursing home anymore," Plekan said. "It feels like home. I can finally relax."

Although Plekan speaks and understands some English, she usually converses in Ukrainian, and the interview was translated by her daughter-in-law, Ulyana Zatorska.

"She loves to chat," said Zatorska  and in Ukrainian, Plekan's personality is freely expressed in words, laughs, and tears.

The 2013 disaster has had the unintended effect of reuniting Plekan and her family.

Plekan was born in Lviv, in western Ukraine, later moving about 60 miles southwest to Ivano-Frankivsk, where she worked as a cook for more than a decade and also acquired some nursing skills.

In 2002, after her husband, Roman, a factory woodworker, died, and with her two children now adults, Plekan emigrated to Philadelphia to care for Roman's aunt and her husband.

After June 5, 2013, Plekan's children began visiting on staggered six-month visas to ensure that family was there to help care for her. Now, Plekan said, both children have "open cases" applying for permission to permanently remain in the United States.

"I need my kids because of my condition," Plekan said.

Plekan's despair was deep in the first years after the accident.

"This is my hell," she told the Philadelphia jury in the criminal trial of the two demolition contractors.

"How am I supposed to live now?" she said she intended to ask those responsible for the collapse, in her first meeting with reporters on the first anniversary of her rescue.

The answer to Plekan's rhetorical question has come slowly.

Normality, as Plekan now defines it, has come with doing everyday things.

She said she loves to explore her new neighborhood. The people are friendly and say hello. Her daughter-in-law said a Portuguese family living behind them provides a link to Plekan's own immigrant experience.

Plekan said she attends Mass at the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, at 830 N. Franklin St., because it is not crowded and she can maneuver her wheelchair. And a short distance away from her home is the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center, where Plekan can talk with other Ukrainian immigrants.

She said she also enjoys visiting the local supermarket and trips to Willow Grove Park Mall  and is recognized.

"I was in the grocery store and a man came up to my daughter and asked if I was the woman in the Market Street accident," Plekan said. "He said how sorry he was that it happened to me."

She said she also smiles at parents trying to get their young children to "stop looking."

"I always smile so the kids don't get scared because of my voice," Plekan said.

June 5, 2013, is still close enough that talking about it releases tears that roll down her cheeks.

"I'm very fortunate to be alive, to be with my kids," Plekan said. "I'm not angry. I just hope that something that bad never happens again. I feel very bad for people who have lost their family members."

Plekan said she cannot thank enough all those  first responders, doctors and nurses, friends, relatives  who have helped her get this far.

Among them is lawyer Stern, who remains close to Plekan and her family. Shortly after Plekan got settled in her new home after her last hospitalization, Stern and associate lawyer Elizabeth Crawford visited.

As he and Crawford got up to leave, Stern said, Plekan demanded to know: "Where are you going? Dinner!"

The onetime Ukrainian cook had made them holopchi  cabbage rolls stuffed with ground meat and rice, cooked in tomato sauce.

"It was delicious," Stern said.

"And for dessert, Ukrainian cheesecake  from scratch!" Plekan said. "Next time, pierogies."By Arakel Minassian

On Wednesday May 30, I joined Hetqs reporters as an observer at the trial of Jirayr Sefilyan and six other defendants in Yerevan.

Sefilyan, the leader of the Founding Parliament opposition movement, is appealing the ten-year sentence handed him in March for conspiracy to foment public disorder, illegal arms possession, and conspiracy to seize government buildings.

The defendants were not brought to trial, and the proceedings were pushed back to June 6. Sefilyans supporters responded by staging a demonstration in front of the Prosecutor Generals office and the Court of Cassation. What can we make of these events in the aftermath of Armenias Velvet Revolution?

The anger in the courtroom was palpable as Judge Ruzanna Barseghyan read the statement from the Yerevan Chief of Police, claiming that the officers could not escort Jirayr Sefilyan and the six other detainees to trial. The judges placed the blame wholly on the police, claiming that they had submitted a request for the defendants to appear in court, but that they had only learned 15 minutes before trial that the police faced technical difficulties, and thus could not escort the detainees. There were shouts of disbelief and anger from the crowd, too big to fit comfortably in the small courtroom.

Garo Yegnukyan, one of Sefilyans supporters, who was himself just released from detention on bail, countered that he heard from a source in the police that there were no technical issues at all, but rather, that they were afraid of public demonstrations and street closures if Sefilyan were brought to trial. Incidentally, it was the decision not to escort the defendants that resulted in demonstrations, as Sefilyans supporters proceeded to march from the Court of Appeals to the Cassation Court, where they had further issues to address.

A complaint had been sent to the court by the defendants attorneys regarding their decision two weeks ago to keep Sefilyan in pre-trial detention. Arriving at the Court of Cassation, officials approached the crowd to say that the complaint had been received and sent back to the attorneys by post, with instructions on changes that needed to be made to their document. Protestors then moved to the Prosecutor Generals office to continue their demonstrations.

Authorities seem to be stalling on both the issues of Sefilyans pre-trial detention and his release from prison altogether. Such actions are not new for the Armenian judiciary, which has used the excuse of technical difficulties not to bring defendants to trial in the past, most recently during the Sasna Dzrer trials, proceedings closely related to Sefilyans appeal. After the trial, Garo Ghazaryan, member of the Armenian Bar Association of America, said that he did not see justice that day  that every defendant has a right to their day in court. And truly, the continued excuse that technical difficulties stopped the police from bringing the defendants to court, is difficult to believe. The judiciary should examine the arguments on both sides, and decide one way or another, both on the issue of pre-trial detention, and of ultimate imprisonment, rather than allowing the cases to continue to drag on due to minute details.

On the other hand, there does seem to be a genuine fear of public demonstrations by Sefilyans supporters, who may not be willing to accept anything less than their leaders absolute freedom. Marching from the Appeals Court to the Court of Cassation, protesters called out freedom and Jirayr. The courts history of corruption and subservience to the old regime will likely make any unfavourable verdict appear unjust, and thus action, perhaps even civil disobedience, may be perceived as necessary to bring about a correct result.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has twice called on citizens to stop all acts of civil disobedience, calling them sabotage of a government that enjoys the support of the people. And yet, the protest leaders made it abundantly clear on Wednesday that their qualms were not with Pashinyan, but rather with a corrupt judiciary. Speaking through a megaphone, Jirayr Sefilyans brother Toros said that the court and the police had tried to drive a wedge between his brothers supporters and the new government, to sabotage its actions. He continued by saying that this attempt would not succeed; their movement and the new Prime Minister made up one family, and one body. These sentiments were reiterated repeatedly by various movement leaders.

Pashinyan has said that all issues of political prisoners should be dealt with in the framework of the law. But what happens when the law fails, or has already failed? It is true, the problem of a dysfunctional judiciary will not be solved overnight, but neither can it necessarily be solved by Pashinyan and his governing ministers alone. What Wednesdays protests represent is not sabotage of the new government, but rather continued pressure on a network of oligarchs that still carries strong coercive capacities and has historically used those capacities with regards to the judiciary.

Wednesdays protest was small, comprising no more than 200 individuals. If Sefilyan is again convicted on June 6, subsequent protests may not occur at all, they may be no larger than those on Wednesday, or they may be much larger. They may wane in hours, or they may carry on for days. And if they do carry on, it will be out of recognition that the revolution is not over, but that there is still much work to be done, and that the people, united against a corrupt judiciary, are willing to help in that work.

Arakel Minassian is an incoming Masters student in Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies from Toronto, Canada, now in Yerevan as a volunteer with the Birthright Armenia program.Daiso Japan Malaysia New Prices After Zero Rated GST

We are regulars of Daiso Japan in Malaysia. They have a good range of cheap and affordable products for our family. We usually buy household items, stickers and toys for the family.

Last year, Daiso Japan in Malaysia rose their price from RM 5.30 to RM 5.90. You can read the article at Daiso Japan in Malaysia Will Increase Price in March 2017. We believe the increment is due to the high exchange rate of Japanese Yen to Malaysian Ringgit and not forgetting the 6% GST.







Starting this 1st June 2018, it will be zero rated GST in Malaysia and many of our friends are curious how much is the new Daiso Japan pricing in Malaysia. Previously, the cheapest item is priced at RM 5.90 each and below is the updated pricing after zero rated GST effective 1st June 2018.

Daiso Japan Malaysia New Pricelist:

RM 5.90 => RM 5.57

RM 11.80 => RM 11.14

RM 17.70 => RM 16.71

RM 23.60 => RM 22.28

RM 29.50 => RM 27.85

Then the final price will be rounded up accordingly like the receipt below.

We noticed that some of the Daiso Japan outlets are not bringing toys anymore. We are not sure whether it is that few particular Daiso Japan outlets or all of them. Even those cute stickers for kids are either sold out or not for sale anymore. Maybe the household items are more sellable than the kids items.







We also bought the heat packs when we traveled to winter places like Melbourne last year. It is cheap and not too bad. Of course, you dont compare it with those premium heat packs.

So here are the new prices of Daiso Malaysia after zero rated GST. It is officially at RM 5.57 instead of RM 5.90, a reduction of 33 sen. Happy shopping in Daiso Malaysia.







Wilson Ng A Father and traveler who enjoys to eat, shop, travel and taking pictures with Samsung S21 Ultra. Im a full time blogger, youtuber and father for two.

I travel around 17 International trips per year. Remember to follow us at www.instagram.com/placesandfoods and www.youtube.com/placesandfoods. For ads or features, contact me at [email protected] See author's postsNAMUGONGO  President Museveni has assured the Church of Uganda that government will stop an attempt to grab the Church House. Archbishop (Luke) Orombi and I worked very hard to get that house. As long as the Lord has put me here, I will not allow it to happen. I will meet and discuss with your leaders, President Museveni said Sundaywhile attending the Martyrs Day celebrations at the Anglican Shrine.

Accompanied by his wife Janet, Mr Museveni challenged the Church of Uganda to popularize the Anglican matters who were bigger in numbers but was happy that the numbers of Church of Uganda pilgrims attending the annual pilgrimage at Namugongo had increased and promise to help them develop the shrine.

Some of you do not know that the majority of the Martyrs were Protestants. You used not to pay so much attention to this day but now you are awake. I congratulate you, he said. 23 of the 45 Ugandan Martyrs were Anglican. Four dioceses of Kigezi led the Martyrs Day celebrations at the Anglican side this year under an organising Commitee chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda and his predecessor Amama Mbabazi.

The Anglicans had a visiting preacher Bishop David Grants Williams of Basingstoke in the United Kingdom who asked the pilgrims to be ready to sacrifice their lives for Christ, even to the point of death, just like the Uganda Martyrs.

RelatedWhen it comes to primary documents like the 20-page letter dated January 29, 2018 from former Trump lawyer John Dowd and the preceding 11-page memo dated June 23, 2017, both resisting an interview of the president by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, my preference is to give readers the originals via Scribd. Having obtained their own copies, the New York Times is forcing us to consult the originals here along with the Timess annotations. The related Times article is posted here.

These documents are must reading. Paul comments on one aspect of Dowds January 2018 letter here. I especially enjoyed the list of 16 topics about which Mueller seeks to sit the president down. I have quoted them below with the paragraphs immediately preceding and following:

In our conversation of January 8, your office identified the following topics as areas you desired to address with the President in order to complete your investigation on the subjects of alleged collusion and obstruction of justice:

1. Former National Security Advisor Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn  information regarding his contacts with Ambassador Kislyak about sanctions during the transition process;

2. Lt. Gen. Flynns communications with Vice President Michael Pence regarding those contacts;

3. Lt. Gen. Flynns interview with the FBI regarding the same;

4. Then-Acting Attorney General Sally Yates coming to the White House to discuss same;

5. The Presidents meeting on February 14, 2017, with then-Director James Comey;

6 Any other relevant information regarding former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn;

7. The Presidents awareness of and reaction to investigations by the FBI, the House and the Senate into possible collusion;

8. The Presidents reaction to Attorney General Jeff Sessions recusal from the Russia investigation;

9. The Presidents reaction to Former FBI Director James Comeys testimony on March 20, 2017, before the House Intelligence Committee;

10. Information related to conversations with intelligence officials generally regarding ongoing investigations;

11. Information regarding who the President had had conversations with concerning Mr. Comeys performance;

12. Whether or not Mr. Comeys May 3, 2017, testimony led to his termination;

13. Information regarding communications with Ambassador Kislyak, Minister Lavrov, and Lester Holt;

14. The Presidents reaction to the appointment of Robert Mueller as Special Counsel;

15. The Presidents interaction with Attorney General Sessions as it relates to the appointment of Special Counsel; and,

16. The statement of July 8, 2017, concerning Donald Trump, Jr.s meeting in Trump Tower.

It is our understanding that the reason behind the request for the interview is to allow the Special Counsels office to complete its report. After reviewing the list of topics you presented, it is abundantly clear to the undersigned that all of the answers to your inquiries are contained in the exhibits and testimony that have already been voluntarily provided to you by the White House and witnesses, all of which clearly show that there was no collusion with Russia, and that no FBI investigation was or even could have been obstructed.SURAT, India, June 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

SRK Knowledge Foundation conducted Wisdom - A lecture of Series-2 on 'Future of India' in Science Centre, Surat on 29th May 2018. The Noble Laureate Shri Kailash Satyarthi, Children's Right Activist and Education Advocate and Shri Kiran Kumar, Distinguished Space Scientist and Astrophysicist, who were present in the city to accept 'SantokBaa Humanitarian Award' conferred by Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Hon. President of India and Prof. Arun Tiwari, Associate of Former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam were the guest speakers of the evening. Shri Govind Dholakia, Chairman, SRK Knowledge Foundation welcomed the esteemed invitees.

(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/700273/First_population_Health_Study.jpg )



(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/700274/Wisdom_Series.jpg )



Shri Kiran Kumar spoke about the impact of the space research. Putting on the emphasis on the achievements made by ISRO in space research, he said, "It has caught attention of scientists, political ministers and the people worldwide." The project was successfully launched in target time and in desired budget. The motive of advance research was to make India self-reliant in space technology". The scientists worked to make the lives of rustic; safe and convenient. They successfully developed a technology to save the fishermen who are living by the side of seashore from the upcoming cyclone and other natural disasters, which resulted in saving lives of many fishermen and people associated with the fishing industry; added Kumar. Shri Kiran Kumar further inspired the young generation to serve the nation in space science and technology.

Subsequently, Noble Laureate Shri Kailash Satyarthi talked straight from the heart while talking about the subtle issue. Children are the architect of the future and they should be handled sensitively. Revealing the data of the number of children being exploited in the country, Shri Satyarthi said, "Five lakhs children are still the victims of rape, labor, trafficking and are deprived of education". He urged the public to raise their voice against the child abusement and child exploitation and be a part of his campaign '100 Million for 100 Million' which aims to mobilise 100 million youth and children for 100 million underprivileged children across the world to end violence against them.

In presence of these dignitaries, SRKKF under its SRK Kalam Health project launched 'Niramaya'- India's First Population Health Study prepared under the mentorship of Prof. Arun Tiwari. Prof. Tiwari called this project as for great societal benefit. For the first time, more than 1,00,000 people have been approached in their dwellings and an attempt has been made to understand the social determinants of health. There is a growing awareness that upstream health can indeed save wastage of working days on account of disability and mitigate the economic hardships of the already poor people. Such a study indeed paves the way in this direction. Stated Prof. Tiwari, declaring this study to ever been taken up by the scientists.

On this ideal gathering, The SRK Research Scholars were also honored by the esteemed dignitaries under SRK Research Scholarship programme. The session received an overwhelming response with the audience consist of NGOs, Social Activists, Academicians, Intellectuals and the Students.

About Shree Ramkrishna Knowledge Foundation:

Shree Ramkrishna Knowledge Foundation (SRKKF) is a culmination of the journey embarked upon, more than half a century ago, by our Founder Chairman, Shree Govind Dholakia in 1964. His focused, resilient, visionary, passionate and innovative approach along with his belief of 'Giving back to the Society' has inspired to setup SRKKF. Our aim includes extensive contribution in the areas of health, education, agriculture and community welfare.

For more information, please visit: http://www.srk.foundation.

SOURCE Shree Ramkrishna Knowledge FoundationNEW DELHI, June 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

UPSC Prelims 2018: The answer key of the civil services preliminary exam was displayed on the website of NeoStencil.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducted the Civil Service Preliminary Examination 2018 on June 3. Number of applicants this year is expected to cross 14 lakhs. The exam was conducted in two phases with the first paper (General Studies) held at 9:30 AM and the second (CSAT) at 2:30 PM. Each paper was 2 hours long.

NeoStencil, India's leading online platform for IAS preparation, in association with its 60+ partner teachers for IAS exam has come out with a detailed answer key with explanation and expected cut-off. In addition, it has also developed a 100% accurate prelims score calculator which is a first of its kind. Students can submit their answers and check UPSC prelims 2018 answer key and score calculator to know their final score and correct and incorrect answers from three different answer keys by three most credible institutes - NeoStencil, InsightsonIndia and IASbaba.

The faculties involved in framing the expected cut off are experts with 15+ years experience in the IAS segment. NeoStencil's predicted cut off for Prelims 2017 was 106  3 and the actual UPSC cut off was 105.64 - almost identical.

The Civil Services Exam is the single platform for entry into various administrative services such as IAS, IFS, IPS and IRS. The mains exam this year will be held on 28th September, 2018.

UPSC will release the official answer key in 2019 after the announcement of the final merit list. The candidates, however, seek answers of Prelims right after their exam to help them plan their Mains exam preparation. For the same, you can find detailed answer key and score calculator from three different and credible answer keys here: https://neostencil.com/upsc-prelims-answer-key-cut-off/

Media Contact:

Anish Passi

Director

NeoStencil India Pvt. Ltd.

[email protected]

+919899296345



SOURCE NeoStencil India Private LimitedImmigration lawyers Spokane We find that while our clients are eager to learn the English language, they can still struggle translating many issues surrounding their immigration status.

The Elliott Law Group, a team of dedicated immigration lawyers servicing Spokane, Washington, is proud to announce a new blog post on the value of a Spanish-speaking immigration law firm team. The post reaches out to the Spanish-speaking community and advocates for an attorney / client relationship built on a mutually intelligible language.

We find that while our clients are eager to learn the English language, they can still struggle translating many issues surrounding their immigration status, explained Lana Elliott, managing partner at the law firm, which has offices in Spokane Valley and now in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. "It is key that our Latin American clients understand exactly what we are saying, so thats why we have Spanish speaking team members on staff.

To read the new blog post from Elliott Law Firm please visit; https://www.elliottlawgroup.com/spokane-immigration-attorney-in-the-spokane-valley-and-coeur-dalene-who-speaks-spanish-knows-the-importance-of-diversity. For an in-depth look at the immigration services their attorneys provide with offices in both Spokane Valley, Washington, and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, visit https://www.elliottlawgroup.com/areas-of-practice/immigration-lawyer/.

The law firm offers a diverse legal team of immigration lawyers and staff in Spokane serving the Washington and Idaho community, who have the ability to communicate in Spanish, English, and Russian.

GOOD NEIGHBORS: IMMIGRATION LAWYERS IN SPOKANE

Here is the background for this release. Immigrants from various Latin American countries may have found opportunities in the states of Washington and Idaho. Adjusting to a new culture could be easier than learning the English language. Listening to legal advice from an team member speaking Spanish may be helpful in sorting out complex immigration issues. Speaking to an immigration lawyer in Spokane about a green card could be difficult if only English is used.

For these reasons, Elliot Law Group has announced a new blog post for the Spokane and Coeur dAlene community. A diverse workforce in the states of Washington and Idaho can benefit from sharing the same language. If a Mexican immigrant has decided to learn English, it may be helpful, but not enough to keep communication clear. If staff at a law firm in Spokane can speak Spanish, both parties can benefit. Mexican non-citizens searching for immigration lawyers in Spokane can receive communication assistance in both English and Spanish. Details concerning work visas, family visas, DACA issues and green cards could be clearer if a native language is used. An immigration lawyer in Spokane can prove to be a good neighbor by speaking multiple languages in the community.

ABOUT ELLIOTT LAW GROUP

With law firm offices in both Spokane Valley, Washington, and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Elliott Law Group aims to be one of the top-rated immigration law firms in Spokane, Spokane Valley, Coeur dAlene and all of Spokane, Okanogan and Kootenai Counties. Persons looking for not only an immigration lawyer but also a DWI / DUI attorney or perhaps a lawyer for defense against traffic tickets, can seek help. Areas of specialty include visa issues (including DACA), working as DUI defense attorneys or criminal attorneys (including marijuana DUI and traffic ticket charges), assisting with green cards or obtaining K1 (fiance) visas and citizenship in both Washington and Idaho. The firm has attorneys who are both Russian-speaking and Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff. Service areas include Brewster, Cheney, Airway Heights, and Moses Lake in Washington, as well as Post Falls, Coeur d'Alene and Sandpoint in Idaho.

Website. http://www.elliottlawgroup.com/

Media Relations. 509-891-4301San Diego Serviced Apartments Yes, San Diego is a popular place for vacations, but its also a big hub for conventions and trade shows, explained Robert Lee, President of Key Housing.

Key Housing, California's leading service for short term, corporate, and serviced apartments from Eureka to San Diego, Los Angeles to Sacramento, and everywhere in between, is proud to announce a new alert on the housing shortage in San Diego with a particular emphasis on so-called "serviced apartments." Key Housing has developed a leadership role helping Europeans navigate the housing system and locate short term or corporate housing in San Diego and other booming California cities.

Yes, San Diego is a popular place for vacations, but its also a big hub for conventions and trade shows, explained Robert Lee, President of Key Housing. Many Americans know this and book short term or corporate housing in San Diego early if they are planning to visit the area. Our alert is for the wider community, including European visitors who may not be aware of the issues they face.

Interested persons can review the new Key Housing blog post at http://blog.keyhousing.com/theres-a-shortage-of-short-term-corporate-housing-in-san-diego-but-we-can-help-you/. Indeed, Key Housing also identifies a Southern California property each month as a "featured complex" to help Europeans and others locate short term housing. For June, the designated complex for June 2018 has been awarded to Avalon Fashion Valley. The complex is an archetypical example of a serviced apartment in San Diego and thus deserves the June, 2018, "featured complex" designation. To learn more about Avalon Fashion Valley please go to http://www.keyhousing.com/rightside.asp?action=form3&ID=853.

ALERT: A CONVENTION CRUNCH COULD AFFECT SEARCHES FOR SAN DIEGO SERVICED APARTMENTS

Here is background to this release. Searching for San Diego serviced apartments for rent could become difficult for European visitors. Popular conventions and trade shows could can book rooms months in advance. In addition, vacation destinations can include popular Southern California cities. The area of San Diego may be considered a year-around destination for vacationers and corporations alike. Persons living in the United States may understand the importance of booking accommodations early if planning to visit the area. European visitors planning to book a San Diego serviced apartment for rent may not know to schedule accommodations early. If a European waits too long to secure accommodations in San Diego, however, it could become a problem. Convention and trade show attendees in San Diego may have packed several hotels full at the same time a vacation has been scheduled. Planning far ahead for San Diego serviced apartments for rent may be the best move.

European visitors planning to book a San Diego serviced apartment for rent may need to confirm a spot early. Vacations can happen all year in the popular city but conventions and trade shows can add to the squeeze. Trade show and convention coordinators may completely book nearby hotels months prior to an event. Searching for San Diego serviced apartments for rent could be problematic. Corporate housing options, including the Avalon Fashion Valley complex can be a smart alternative. Booking a San Diego serviced apartment months prior to a large convention might be the answer European visitors need.

For these reasons, Key Housing has issued an alert on the short term housing shortage in San Diego with special reference to "serviced apartments."

ABOUT KEY HOUSING

Based in Folsom, California, Key Housing Connections Inc. specializes in corporate housing and corporate housing in large cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles or San Jose as well as smaller cities like Sacramento, Culver City and Walnut Creek. Key Housing is a leader in affordable, friendly, short-term and corporate housing in places like Capitola, Santa Barbara, Hermosa Beach and just about every city in California. Europeans searching for San Jose serviced apartments may find a list of choices. Employers looking for a San Jose corporate apartment for rent can also find options. Whether it's serviced apartments or a furnished rental, just search, click or call today!

Key Housing

(800) 989-0410

http://www.keyhousing.com/John M. Tolomer, President & CEO, The Westchester Bank Importantly, the staffs dedication and support of each other carries over to the customer experience. It is this customer service model of excellence, and personal caring, that really separates us from larger banking institutions.

The Westchester Bank has recently been honored as a 2018 Best Companies to Work for in New York State. This is the second consecutive year the Bank has been so recognized. It is also their first time as a Top 10 Best Company in the small-sized employer category (ranking #9). These celebrated annual awards, hosted by The New York State Society for Human Resource Management, are part of a distinctive program that evaluates and ranks the best places of employment. This statewide survey and awards program identifies, recognizes and honors the best places of employment in New York whose practices benefit the State's businesses, economy and workforce.

John M. Tolomer, President and CEO of The Westchester Bank stated, A Top 10 selection as a Best Company to Work For is a great reflection on the character and quality of people working here at the Bank. We view each team member as a valuable contributor to the Banks success. Its personally rewarding to see a staff that not only enjoys what they do but also appreciates the comradery that makes the work environment that much more fulfilling. Its a major reason we have an extremely low turnover. While management may provide tools for learning and professional growth, its a collective positive attitude and effort that permeates the entire organization. Our core business principle, Banking Made Personal, has remained consistent since The Westchester Bank first opened its doors. Importantly, the staffs dedication and support of each other carries over to the customer experience. It is this customer service model of excellence, and personal caring, that really separates us from larger banking institutions.

Mr. Tolomer continued, Another core value is a shared culture of caring and active participation with local non-profits. While the Bank supports many local organizations in need, its employee volunteerism and a hands-on engagement that helps make for a better community for all moving forward, Mr. Tolomer concluded.

The New York State Society for Human Resource Management (NYSSHRM) officially announces award recipients as part of its Best Companies to Work for in New York State awards program. Their 11th annual Best Companies to Work for in New York list is comprised of companies with operations in the state, split into three groups: small-sized employers with 15-99 employees; medium-sized employers with 100-249 employees; large-sized employers with 250+ employees. To be considered for participation, organizations had to fulfill specific registration eligibility requirements, and participate in a two-part survey of employee satisfaction and engagement, as well as workplace practices and policies.

About The Westchester Bank

The Westchester Bank is a New York State Chartered and full-service FDIC insured commercial bank offering state-of-the-art technology with a comprehensive line of banking products to businesses and consumers including: business and personal checking, business lending, commercial mortgages, savings accounts, CDs, money market accounts, Interest on Lawyer Accounts (IOLA), attorney escrow accounts and tenant security accounts. The Westchester Bank is headquartered in White Plains at 12 Water Street with six branch locations: Yonkers at 1900 Central Park Avenue, White Plains at 464 Mamaroneck Avenue, Thornwood at 994 Broadway, Mount Kisco at 51 South Moger Avenue, Mamaroneck at 305 Mamaroneck Avenue and Rye Brook at 800 Westchester Ave - 4th Floor. For more information about The Westchester Bank products and personal services, please visit TheWestchesterBank.com or contact Stephanie Weston at (914) 595-1978.Dorthy Mack We are excited to have Dorthy as a member of our board, said Timothy L. Anderson, AACUC Chairman.

The African-American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC), announced that Dorthy Mack, Senior Vice President, Northwest Division Executive, for financial technology provider CO-OP Financial Services, was appointed to the AACUC Board of Directors on May 8, 2018. We are excited to have Dorthy as a member of our board, said Timothy L. Anderson, AACUC Chairman. She brings a wealth of knowledge and relationships in the credit union industry and will be a valuable addition to our team.

Mack is an experienced financial services relationship executive and manager, with over 30 years of proven results in card services, payment processing and management. Her extensive background includes: client relations and consulting, card services portfolio management, vendor management, team management, working with group service providers, contract negotiations, consultative sales, and card center operations. Most recently Mack led a team of account executives a large CUSO that provided excellent customer service to their Top 40 credit unions and board members. She also spent 23 years at First Data as Vice President over the west region and STAR Network relationship teams. As an individual contributor, Mack was responsible for the partnership between CO-OP FS and First Data/STAR.

I am honored to join the AACUC board, Mack said. AACUC is a leader for diversity and inclusion in the credit union industry, and I look forward to sharing my experiences and contributing to the future direction and growth of the organization. Mack is passionate about diversity and inclusion and is working to create a west coast based chapter of the AACUC. Mack holds a degree in Criminal Justice from Pierce College in Washington.

About AACUC

The AACUC was created to increase the strength of the global credit union community. In 2003 the AACUC became a 501c3 non-profit organization. Over the years, AACUC has grown and is ever changing to meet the needs of the dynamic credit union community which it serves. The organization is all-encompassing for individuals (professional and volunteers) in credit unions, insurance, regulators, consultants and other entities in the credit union industry.Welcome Guest! You Are Here:Posted Tuesday, May 29, 2018 8:00 pm

How does a sitting Supreme Court justice in her 80s suddenly become the subject of an Internet meme whose popularity has skyrocketed with the youngest generations?

Although documentary makers Betsy West and Julie Cohen lead into the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg with her seemingly incongruous online fame, they quickly cut to the substance of Ginsburgs significant contributions to the law over the decades to make the case that her authenticity has earned her the pop culture heat she currently enjoys.

Part of Ginsburgs appeal surely lies in the almost comic study in contrasts she presents, as a small, soft-spoken, elderly woman with owlishly outsized glasses, whose legal arguments and Supreme Court opinions nonetheless reveal a strident and (pardon the pun) ruthlessly pragmatic approach to building a foundation for equal rights for women by setting one precedent after another, court case by court case, brick by brick.

As we see in the film, its this deceptively demure tenacity thats earned Ginsburg, even as a liberal jurist, the open admiration of not only Republican U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, who suggested her appointment to the highest court in the land to then-President Bill Clinton, but also the genuine friendship of her fellow Supreme Court justice, the deeply conservative (and since departed) Antonin Scalia.

As with her husband, Marty, remembered after his passing as a clever, charming and progressively ahead-of-his-era spouse who willingly put second his own legal career to support hers, it would seem the men who get to know Ginsburg cant help but be won over by her formidable intelligence and well-constructed logic.

For all of the Saturday Night Live skits and amusing Tumblr posts getting showcased to demonstrate Ginsburgs avid fandom, West and Cohen understood the heart of RBG as a biography would have to be the words of Ginsburg herself, in the equal rights cases she litigated before almost all-male panels of judges, and in the opinions (and increasingly, the stern and disappointed dissents) shes written from the bench of the Supreme Court.

Audio recordings of an even-tempered older woman addressing the finer points of the law in court do not naturally lend themselves to a thrilling cinematic experience, but by interspersing those quotes with the frank commentary of Ginsburgs peers and contemporaries for context, RBG seeks to make a star out of the laws themselves, which represents a refreshing change of pace from the personality-driven politics of today.

The one time we see a crack in the genteel code of conduct Ginsburgs mother drilled into her is when the film addresses Ginsburgs off-the-cuff comments about then-presidential nominee Donald Trump. Ginsburg herself not only agrees with her critics that she should have held her tongue but also chides herself for her fears of going backward by reflecting on how much progress has already been made since the days when she and other women who studied law were accused of stealing jobs from more-deserving men.

This film makes no pretense about how flattering and sympathetic its makers are toward its subject, with an entire sequence devoted to profiling Ginsburgs admittedly impressive workout regimen.

We watch Ginsburg giggle with glee (her adult children describe laughter as a rare thing for their mom) at Kate McKinnons posturing, swaggering impression of her on SNL, but when asked how much of herself she sees in this caricature, Ginsburg immediately said, Not a bit of it.

At the same time, when asked how she feels about her Internet-coined title of Notorious RBG, a nod to the deceased rapper Notorious B.I.G., Ginsburg notes that she and the artist have at least one thing in common, since theyre both from Brooklyn.

Quoth Chris Evans as Captain America: Im just a kid from Brooklyn.

As superhero lines go, its not bad.Reasons

GCBs financials were not accompanied by notes, however, a careful look at the financials one can attribute it to a significant increase in the banks Non -Performing Loans for the year under review.

Also, it can be said that GCB's interest income did not witness significant increase, as it went up from 1 billion to about 1.1 billion. Revenue also went up marginally to reach 1.12 billion cedis for this year.

Performance for first quarter of 2018

GCB also released its financial results for the first quarter of 2018. This was after it sought an extension from the Bank of Ghana and Ghana Stock Exchange in releasing the results.

The numbers again showed a significant decline in profits from 66 million in 2017 to 38 million in 2018.

Non-performing loans NPLs is still a major concern for the Bank. Its NPLs went up by 60 percent to 25 million for the first quarter of this year.

Deposits have also reached 6.9 billion from 4.7. Investments by the Bank also went up significantly, from 2.5 billion in 2017 to 5 billion.

Borrowings also shot up significantly from 32 million to 1 billion, another development that could be described as interesting. Total Asset went up by 60 percent 9.6 billion.READ MORE: CEO of Obengfo Hospital charged with murder

Stacy passed on at the Obengfo Hospital last week Monday after reporting to the facility to check up on her health.

She reportedly complained of uneasiness and decided to seek medical care at the hospital.

However, she never returned home, with doctors later confirming that she was dead.

Meanwhile the owner of the facility, Dr Dominic Obeng Andoh, has been charged with murder of Stacy's death.

According to Schwarzenegger, many celebrities have patronised the hospital before, expressing shock why they are silent over Dr Obeng Andoh's predicament.

In a new video on Instagram, she said: "I'm standing right in front of the hospital and I have a list of the names of the celebrities.He said Jonathan took the words of President Akufo-Addo completely out of context when he quoted the Ghanaian leader of mocking Nigeria when he gave a keynote address at the Oxford African Conference in London, United Kingdom.

He therefore quoted the exact words President Akufo-Addo: "For most of you in the audience today, it is probably before your time. But in the late 1970s up to the mid-1980s, as a result of the discovery of considerable petroleum deposits, Nigeria was booming. It was the place to be.

"We Ghanaians, who were going through very difficult times then, would arrive at Heathrow Airport, and be herded into a cage to be subjected to the full third degree by Immigration , and we would look on as our Nigerian cousins would be waved through, with a "welcome sir" and a "welcome madam."

"The newspaper headlines in this country were full of Nigerians leaving or forgetting bundles of money in taxis and telephone booths. Nigerians were the preferred tenants for those who had apartments to let. You could stop by any Thomas Cook shop on any High Street in this country and buy or sell Naira, the Nigerian currency, and you could do the same in New York, and I suspect in many other Western country cities.

"I do not need to spell out todays reality to anyone in this audience. I cite this just to make the point that the 'the outside world' is well able to tell that there are separate sovereign nations on the African continent. But when the news is not good, then Africa is treated as one entity."Ambassador Bawa also denied Jonathan's comments claiming Akufo-Addo said Nigeria is a country where cattle roam about anyhow.

The other alleged remark that Ghana is not Nigeria where cattle can roam about anyhow has never been made by President Akufo-Addo. That is not his way of speaking.

President Akufo-Addo, in many of the speeches he has made in Nigeria and elsewhere since becoming the President of Ghana, has described Nigeria as a country I describe as my second home in the world, and will never use Nigeria to make negative examples as the former President Goodluck Jonathan sought to portray.

President Akufo-Addo enjoys a very good relationship with President Muhammadu Buhari , as he has with many other Nigerian leaders. Ghana and Nigeria are like siblings, and it would be most inappropriate, because of politics, for anyone, regardless of his or her status in society, to try to sow seeds of discord amongst the leadership and peoples of our two countries.

Jonathan reportedly accused President Akufo-Addo of mocking Nigeria when he commissioned a flyover In Ado Ekiti State.

He's quoted by the Nigerian press as saying: A President of a neighbouring country, Ghana, recently made two negative remarks about Nigeria. First, the current Ghanaian President was addressing Ghanaians about the movement of cattle within their shores and he said openly that Ghana is not like Nigeria where cattle roam freely. That was quite uncomplimentary."I have not taken a bribe from Mr. Moses Baiden or anyone else. I have not received a gift of land, cash or any other object of valuable consideration from any person for any work I have done or will do in future. I have not stolen any money from anyone. I have, on the contrary, acted with utmost integrity and professionalism and served the best interests of Ghana with my best intellect and best industry in my capacity as Ag. Executive Secretary of the NIA," he said in a lengthy statement.

He continued: "Regrettably, it appears that most people believe that if you are the head of a statutory body, you must be corrupt or dishonest, and you must be in a position to award contracts to companies and individuals as you please. I do not share those views, and I am not a rogue Ag. Executive Secretary. I will put anyone asserting the contrary, including their agents, privies or assigns who gives the platform for these vituperative and utterly defamatory statements to be made, to the strictest proof."

Prof. Attafuah also denied the MP's claim that the contract awarded to IMS was $1.2 billion, clarifying that it cost the nation $293 million in a public private partnership agreement.

He said: "The NIS project to deliver ID cards to all Ghanaians is over a period of one year. Within this period, the State is committed to spending $124m while the private partner, IMS, is committed to providing $169m.

"The total project cost for the delivery of the Ghana Card is therefore $293m and not 1.2bn USD. This total is expected to cover the technical and operational cost that will deliver ID Cards to all Ghanaians over the one year period and establish the National Identity Register and the entire NIS."

Mr Agyapong had said in a broadcast discussion that the budgeted $1.2 billion intended to be used for the National Identification card as fraudulent.

READ MORE: Stan Dogbe asks NIA boss to resign over failure to deliver on Ghana card

He also said he can provide the cards if given a budget of only $50 million.

Are we crazy? 1.2 Billion DOLLARS for Ghana Card? Are you out of your mind? Are we crazy? This is thievery. They are disgracing Akufo-Addo and it really pains me. Are we crazy in this country? I speak for Ghana, I don In India, their population is 1.2 billion people and they used the same amount for a similar project. Ghana we are A poor country like Ghana? he fumed.

Read the full statement below

ALLEGATIONS OF CORRUPTION AGAINST PROF. KEN ATTAFUAH  A CATEGORICAL DENIAL

Prof. Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah, Esq.

Ag. Executive Secretary, National Identification Authority

My attention has been drawn to statements made on traditional and social media platforms by Hon. Kennedy Agyepong, MP for Assin Central and Member of the New Patriotic Party, alleging that I have engaged in corruption, thievery and fraud in the award of a contract connected with the National Identification System (NIS) Project. Mr. Agyepong has also complained vehemently about my having allegedly awarded the contract at a cost of $1.2 billion.

Specifically, Hon. Agyepong thundered the following statements, which have since gone viral, on Adom TV on 29th May 2018:

Ghana Card Contract costing 1.2 billion, stupid. I brought a contract costing $50million from India. Ken Attafuah took land from the CEO of Margins Group to build his house and gave him the contract.

I categorically deny the allegations and respond as follows:

A. Award of the NIS Project Contract and Cost of Operations

1. I was appointed Ag. Executive Secretary of the National Identification Authority (NIA) by President Nana Addo-Dankwa Akufo-Addo on 27th January 2017, and I assumed office on 6th February of that year.

2. By letter dated 22nd May 2017, Government directed the National Identification NIA to immediately engage with Identity Management Systems Ltd (IMS), a subsidiary of the Margins Group, to agree on modalities to ensure the efficient roll-out of NIS project no later than 15th September 2017.

3. The said directive followed Governments acceptance of the key recommendations of a Technical Committee established by the Vice President to develop a roadmap for implementing the NIS Project. Based on the recommendations of the Technical Committee, Government had determined that the existing agreement between NIA and IMS constitutes a viable and effective vehicle for the implementation of a modern, robust and reliable NIS for Ghana consistent with Governments stated policy commitments. Government was to build on an existing Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement between NIA and IMS, which it described as constituting a turnkey solution for the NIS Project.

4. It is instructive to note that, the Technical Committee comprised 16 individuals, most of whom were heads of ICT or operations at a number of statutory public service institutions involved the issuance of identity cards or interested in data management. They included the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Electoral Commission (EC), Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and the NIA. Other members were from the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlements System (GHIPPS), National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Births and Deaths Registry, and the Office of the Vice-President.

5. In the course of its work, the Committee, which I chaired, granted audience to 15 prospective solutions providers and the World Bank Group (acting in an advisory capacity) to present their potential solutions, and to share with the Committee their knowledge and experiences on relevant international best practices. One such entity was India-based Madras Security Printing, which was presented by Hon. Kennedy Agyapong. As with all entities, the Committee made it clear that it was neither receiving bids nor evaluating proposals or awarding contracts; it was merely an advisory body trying to understand what options for solution might be available to Government for reviving Ghanas NIS.

6. In reaching a collective decision, each member personally decided and openly pronounced on which of the three possible options for solution he/she favoured. All but two members selected the NIA-IMS solution. One of the two wrote a Dissenting Opinion to the Presidency, and same was thoroughly examined by the Presidency but rejected. Government approved of the majority. I had no capacity to, and did not, influence the decisions of either the Committee or Government on this highly technical matter.

7. At the end of its work, the Committee concluded that there already existed a turnkey solution that supports the instant issuance of multi-purpose smart cards that meet technical requirements. The recommended solution was to expand the Foreigner Identification Management Systems (FIMS) Project developed by IMS for NIA, which was being executed under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement between the two institutions since 2012. The expanded system anticipated the benefits of leveraging on NIAs existing data and IT assets and the upgrading of NIAs Data Centre which had become obsolete.

8. Pursuant to the said Government directive, and following critical and comprehensive regulatory and approval processes which spanned over seven months, NIA entered into a PPP contract with IMS on 16thApril 2018 for the implementation of the NIS. The said processes included:

(a) Two separate Value-For-Money (VFM) audits of the entire cost by the Public Procurement Authority (PPA);

(b) Review and approval by the Attorney-Generals Department;

(c) Review by the Legal Unit of the Ministry of Finance;

(d) Critical assessments and approval by the Public Investments Division of the Ministry of Finance (MoF)

(e) Review and approval by Public Private Partnership Approval Committee (PPPAC) of MoF;

(f) Review and approval by the Economic Management Team of Government;

(g) Review and approval by Cabinet; and

(h) Review and approval of appropriate waivers for import duty by Parliament.

Copies of the contract were distributed to all 275 members of Parliament in March 2018, and the contract was not signed until 16th April 2018.

Cost of NIS Project

On this issue, Hon. Kennedy Agyepong makes three fundamental claims. First, he contends that he could provide the Ghana Card and the NIS at a cost of only $50m. Second, Mr. Agyepong claims that he was bringing a company that was involved in India where the country was divided into two, and two companies did the solution for the Indian Government, ostensibly referring to the provision of ID cards. Third, he accused me of having been corruptly influenced to award the contract to Margins.

It must be noted that, Mr. Agyepong has presented different cost figures for the said job: in 2017, he claimed that it would cost $150m and in 2018 he puts the figure at $50m. Mr. Agyepong is obviously not in the industry for the manufacture and issuance of biometric ID cards and the management of the NIS and may not be familiar with the cost implications. The ID card Mr. Agyepong contemplates must be radically different from the Ghana Card which forms an important component of the NIS, the totality of which the NIA and IMS partnership is managing for Ghana. Mr. Agyepong does not provide any details on the type of card he intends to deliver to Ghanaians at home and abroad, with his Indian company; he does not indicate how the cards will reach Ghanaians, and how the NIS will be built and maintained within the context of our ......It is important to note that under Indias biometric ID system known as Aadhaar, ten fingerprints and two irises of each individual are captured in order to issue a 12-digit unique identification number. The unique ID number is then used for a variety of public and private services, often in conjunction with the persons address, biometric information or password. No ID card is issued.

The closest national ID cards that can be compared to the Ghana Card, in terms of their physical characteristics and technical functionalities, are those of Rwanda and Nigeria. The Rwandan national ID card is a multipurpose card with a 64-kilobyte chip which contains the bearers passport, driving license and health insurance information. The Ghana Card has a 148 kilobyte capacity chip and greater functionalities than the Rwandan card. It has 14 applications that transcend Rwandas, and it also has a passport life. There are also three international ID profiles on the Ghana Card. Information from other data silos, such as the DVLA, NHIA, SSNIT and GIS may be incorporated onto the Ghana Card.

The Rwandan biometric ID card will be optionally available at a cost of $18.17, while the Ghana Card costs $5.40, and is issued free of charge to Ghanaian citizens in Ghana, in order to foster social and economic inclusion, among other things goals. The Rwandan card is currently issued to citizens one month after registration, while the Ghanaian gets the card issued instantly or within two days where there is delayed printing of cards for minors under 15 years old.

The NIS project to deliver ID cards to all Ghanaians is over a period of one year. Within this period, the State is committed to spending $124m while the private partner, IMS, is committed to providing $169m. The total project cost for the delivery of the Ghana Card is therefore $293m and not 1.2bn USD. This total is expected to cover the technical and operational cost that will deliver ID Cards to all Ghanaians over the one year period and establish the National Identity Register and the entire NIS.

When the card has been delivered and the NIS has become fully functional, part of the revenues that will accrue to NIA by virtue of identity verification services will be used to fund NIAs operational cost and pay off the investments that the partners would make over a period of 15 years. This is projected to be $1.2bn over the operational lifecycle.

In short, the cost of the NIS project is not $1.22 billion, but rather $293.6 million, of which Governments cost is $124 million. This amount is for a much more extensive system than that which was approved under the previous government. The amount of $124 is the full cost for NIA for the first year of the project, and it covers operations in both Ghana and abroad to register and issue cards to 30 million Ghanaians.

The cost profile of the project has not changed since 2012, when the Pilot contract for the registration of foreigners lawfully resident in the country, known as the FIMS Project, was signed under President Mills. The contract terms and pricing are consistent with the FIMS Pilot Project agreement executed between NIA and IMS in 2012, and the Feasibility Study Report for the present expanded project, which received two approvals by the PPPAC in 2014 prior to the 2018 Final Approval.

NIS Cost Breakdown

1. The NIAs cost of $124 million out of the $293.6 million represents 42% of the first year Project cost and will be spent on the following:

 The Central Site (AFIS, Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), Multi-Personalization System, Card Management System)

 Upgrading of the NIA Data Center from Tier II level to Tier III level

 Procurement of Disaster Recovery System

 Procurement of two MX-6100 card printers for 2-D bar code cards.

 Procurement of additional 2-D bar code cards

 Training of over 70,000 field operators for 12 Operational Regions

 Deployment of and compensation for 12,000 field operators for 12 Operational Regions

 Issuance of 9.2 million 2-D barcode ID cards to Ghanaian children under 15 years old

 Procurement of 65 operational vehicles and 60 motor bikes

 Procurement of two 350-KVA generator sets for the Data Centre

 Procurement of 1,600 generator sets for field operations

 Procurement of sundry registration materials and consumables (e.g. registration forms, challenge forms, oath forms, stationery, lockable boxes, environmental health and safety materials and kits, signage and directional signs, ropes, safety boots and reflective clothing

 Provision of mass communications and information services

 Insurance for NIA personnel, vehicles and equipment

 Refurbishment of NIA Headquarters Building

 Administrative expenses

2. For the first year of the Project, IMS II will bear the cost of $169 million out of the total project cost. This amount represents 58% of the Project cost, and will be spent on the following:

 Designing and building the technical platforms for verification

 Providing technical field operational support for all the over 25,000 NIA registration centres across the country

 Providing consumables for personalization with 1,100 Datacard printers

 Providing 2,500 mobile registration workstations

 Providing main communications integration system

 Providing web services for stakeholders

 Providing on-line registration and payment portal

 Providing 500 card issuance and verification hardware and software

 Providing 16.2 million dual-interface smart cards (148K) with 14 applets for stakeholders

3. During the 15-year life cycle of the PPP, NIAs full cost of $531 million will be paid for under the revenue model. This cost includes the setting up and running of regional offices as well as zonal and district offices across the country, the payment of compensation for NIA staff, the production of 37.2 million 2D barcode cards and the running cost of the Authority in general. This amount is inclusive of the $124 million to be paid by the GoG in the first year.

4. On IMS IIs part, its full cost over the 15 year period will be $690 million and will also be paid for by the revenue model. This cost includes the cost of upgrading the technical system every 5 years, maintenance and the production of 52.2 million smart cards. This amount includes the $169.9 million to be borne by IMS II in the first year.

5. A total of 90,823,235 cards will be produced and issued to Ghanaians both home and abroad over the 15 years. The stated figure includes cards that will be reissued, replaced and renewed. The table below provides the breakdown:

Under 15 Years 15 Years and Above Issued Abroad

Mass Issuance --------------- 9,160,850

New Issuance ---------------- 12,234,00

First Issuance --------------- 21,394851

Expiry replacement-------11,624,400

Replacement of lost-------- 4,145,450

Total Issuance-------------- 37,164,701 Mass Issuance------15,418,774

New Issuance-------10,835,353

First Issuance-------26,254,127

Expiry Replacement--17,235,425

Lost Replacement--8,756,454

Total Issuance------52,246,006

New Issuance---------596,000

Expiry Replacement ---566,200

Total Issued------1,412,520

B. Land for Contract  Corruption, Thievery and Fraud

I categorically deny Mr. Agyepongs allegation that I have engaged in corruption, thievery or fraud. The allegation is palpably false, malicious and defamatory.

The house in question was built between September 2009 and December 2011. The NIS contract between the NIA and IMS was executed on 16th April 2018 after Government of Ghana had directed the NIA on 22nd May 2017 to immediately engage the IMS to ensure the efficient roll-out of the NIS. Governments decision was based on the recommendations of a technical committee of experts as I have previously stated. Evidently, the construction of a house between 2009 and 2011 could not have been influenced by a contract awarded in 2018! The following additional facts and points are pertinent:

1. I was appointed as Ag. Executive Secretary of NIA in July 2008 and was terminated in July 2009.

2. My wife and I commenced the construction of the house at Atomic Hills, Ashongman Estates, Accra, in September 2009. We took occupancy of the uncompleted house in December 2011, and continued to develop it gradually, one pay check at a time, until 2011. During that period, our children were described by their school colleagues as living in an uncompleted house and were made the laughing stock in the school yard.

3. My wife and I bought the plot of land from Mr. Moses Baiden who was introduced to us by a mutual friend, Mr. Stephen Ntim, following the demolition of our house by National Security shortly after my termination from office as Executive Secretary of NIA.

4. During my first period of stewardship at NIA, I never dealt with Mr. Moses Baiden, Group CEO of the Margins Group, although Margins was part of a consortium of companies that supported Sagem Morpho, the French company that won the international contract in 2006 to provide technical support to the NIA in the implementation of the NIS. Indeed, Mr. Baiden had already been part of the 2006 contract as the chair of the local consortium called the Ghana Identification Company (GIDC) as part of the local content obligation under the said contract. I was appointed in July 2008 to replace Prof. Ernest Dumor who had served as CEO for the period 2006 to 2008.

5. At the time of buying the land, I was not a public servant, and I had no way of knowing that I would return to head the NIA, or that I would become the chairman of a committee of technical experts to advise Government on a roadmap to revitalize Ghanas NIS.

6. The allegations from the Honourable Member of Parliament for Assin Central can only issue from ignorance, confusion and/or needless malice. During the sittings of the Technical Committee, Mr. Agyepong once attacked me in the corridors of the SNNIT headquarters, menacingly threatening to deal with me drastically if I gave the NIA contract to that Margins guy and failed to give it to [his] company from India which alone can do it for cheap. I told Mr. Agyepong that I was only the chair of a Committee of technocrats, and we would work in good conscience and submit our report to Government, but As for me and my household, we would serve the Lord. Mr. Agyepong evidently bears me a grudge!

Conclusion

In conclusion, I have not taken a bribe from Mr. Moses Baiden or anyone else. I have not received a gift of land, cash or any other object of valuable consideration from any person for any work I have done or will do in future. I have not stolen any money from anyone. I have, on the contrary, acted with utmost integrity and professionalism and served the best interests of Ghana with my best intellect and best industry in my capacity as Ag. Executive Secretary of the NIA.They had laid down three key issues, including salary discrepancies, for resolution by the ministry before ending their strike action which left many patients stranded in several hospitals.

Many Ghanaians depend on government funded labs for diagnoses because private run labs are expensive and often managed by inexperience technicians.

In a statement calling off the strike action, the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS) said a memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed on the three key issues tabled for redress.

On behalf of the National Executive Council of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS), we inform our members that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed on this day of 1st June, 2018 between the Ministry of Health and GAMLS on the three key issues that compelled us to lay down our working tools, the statement said.

Leadership assures all members of our total commitment to the full implementation of every item in the signed M.O.U. for the benefit of our members and cherished Clients. We seek your continuous support at each stage of implementing the agreed roadmap. We further pledge that the Association will stand by members who have been intimidated or victimised by management owing to their participation in this strike, the statement assured.

READ MORE: Lab technicians begin strikeIndia's Border Security Force said its troops returned fire after Pakistani border rangers in Sialkot fired into Kashmir without provocation in the early hours of Sunday.

"The injured soldiers were immediately evacuated to a military hospital where they later succumbed (to their injuries)," border force spokesman Manoj Yadav told AFP from Jammu, the winter capital of the restive Himalayan region.

Pakistan authorities did not immediately comment on India's allegations or whether any damage was sustained on their side of the border.

The salvo of gun and mortar fire came just four days after Pakistan and India promised to end ceasefire violations in Kashmir.

The two sides had pledged to respect the conditions laid out in a 2003 ceasefire "in letter and spirit" following some of the highest levels of violence in Kashmir since the pact was signed.

Both sides blame each other for violating the 15-year ceasefire.

Dozens have been killed in border clashes in recent months along the border that divides the territory into zones of Indian and Pakistani control, leaving residents terrified.

The renewed commitment to the ceasefire had encouraged thousands of civilians to return to their homes after weeks of shelling.

Kashmir has been divided since the end of British colonial rule in 1947 and both New Delhi and Islamabad claim the former Himalayan kingdom in full.

India has about 500,000 soldiers in the part of Kashmir it controls, where armed groups are fighting for independence or a merger with Pakistan.

The flare-up along the border comes amid a rise in street riots and militant violence in the Kashmir valley, which witnesses near-daily demonstrations against Indian rule.Several members of the Chilean church hierarchy are accused by victims of ignoring and covering up child abuse by Karadima during the 1980s and 1990s.

In a statement Saturday, the Vatican said the pope would meet the five Chilean priests shortly as part of efforts to heal them and the Church.

"With the help of the five priests, the pope will try to find a solution to the internal fracture of the community of the faithful.

"In this way, it will be possible to begin to rebuild a healthy relationship between the faithful and their priests, once everyone has come to terms with their own wounds," it said.

Last month, all 34 Chilean bishops announced their resignation over the scandal after Francis summoned them.

Since 2000, about 80 Roman Catholic priests have been reported to authorities in Chile for alleged sexual abuse.

The pope has apologised to the victims.The Vancouver rental market is pretty aggressive: you go to see a listing and there are 40 people lined up outside  and he was accustomed to spending a large percentage of his income on rent.

And I wasnt too picky. I just didnt want to be more than a half-hour from the financial district, said Laflamme, 24, who set what seemed a reasonable budget of about $2,000 a month for a one-bedroom or large studio in Manhattan. Rental agents dont really exist in Vancouver; you just kind of make it work. I figured thats what I would do in New York, too.

But several weeks of looking on Craigslist turned up only bait-and-switch scenarios, studios sneakily shot from angles that made them look like one-bedrooms and suspiciously beautiful apartments in Midtown managed by out-of-state companies without a New York address.

Id read on some blogs that you should get an agent if youre not from New York, but I had been a skeptic, Laflamme said. Finally, I got one. Unless you have connections in the city, the barrier to entry is high.

Even for renters accustomed to complex housing markets, finding an apartment in New York can be daunting. Many first-time renters arrive in the city braced for small, expensive apartments, but few are prepared for just how small and expensive.

In April, the average rent for a Manhattan studio was $2,355, according to the real estate company Citi Habitats. In Brooklyn, long seen as a less expensive alternative, it was $2,320. And while there are less costly apartments to be found  and room shares to be had  for those who dont know New York City well, finding a deal, or even recognizing a deal when it comes along, can be difficult.

How much flexibility is required to get more space or seemingly basic perks like an elevator or dishwasher? Is it a matter of changing neighborhoods, raising your budget or just looking harder?

People think they can apply what they learned about renting elsewhere to Manhattan, with a little bit of a premium, said Gary Malin, president of Citi Habitats. But there are a lot of qualifying requirements.

Most landlords, for example, expect renters to earn 40 times the monthly rent  that means $94,200 a year to qualify for that average Manhattan studio that costs $2,355 a month, significantly more than the boroughs median per capita income of $66,522, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Those with incomes that do not qualify will need a guarantor who makes 80 times the rent, or $188,400 a year. Some landlords require even more for guarantors who live outside the tri-state area. And while there are many ways to work around those requirements  paying six months or a year of rent up front, for example, or working with a company like Rhino or Jetty, which can act as a guarantor or front a security deposit  not every landlord is flexible. And those with the most desirable apartments dont need to be.

Rental real estate brokers  a rarity in many other cities  are not only common in New York, but often unavoidable. First-time renters determined to go it alone may be surprised to discover that even if they find an apartment on a listings site like StreetEasy, PadMapper or Naked Apartments  and wind up speaking to a broker at an open house for all of two minutes before submitting an application  they may still have to pay a full brokers fee of 15 percent of the annual rent, which, for a $2,500-a-month-apartment, comes to $4,500.

No-fee apartments exist, of course, and in a sluggish rental market like the one the city has been in for the past year or so, landlords are more likely to pick up the brokers fee. But looking at only no-fee listings knocks out a lot of options, and no-fee apartments are more commonly found in luxury high-rises or large complexes with their own leasing offices, like Stuyvesant Town.

For those unfamiliar with the city, a good agent can be invaluable for maximizing the number of apartments a potential renter sees  and then guiding that renter through the application process, and helping determine whether the renters budget and expectations are reasonable.

Bailey Gladysz said that when she moved to the city five years ago, she and her husband had a budget of $2,400, and they wanted a spacious one-bedroom with natural light in an elevator building in Chelsea. Brokers would literally take us to the worst apartment and say that we needed to increase our budget, she recalled.

Now a real estate agent with Triplemint, Gladysz said she would never show renters grim listings to convince them to give in to higher prices. Instead, she tempers expectations at the outset.

If its their first time moving to the city, and theyre a new college grad with not much money, I have to politely tell them to drop things off their must-have list, she said.

One of the most common requests she gets from first-time renters is a commute under 20 minutes, a tall order given that the average New York City commute is 36 minutes.

Many newcomers arent being intentionally demanding, she added, they just dont understand how New York works. When she explains that it is not that unusual for people to send their laundry out or have packages delivered to their workplaces, many are happy to forgo the in-unit washer-dryer or the doorman.

And factors that, to the uninitiated, may not seem worth mentioning can sometimes derail or at least drastically change a New York apartment hunt.

Kim Bloomfield, an agent at Citi Habitats, recalled showing a man moving from Washington one-bedrooms on the Upper East Side in the $2,300 range, which limited him primarily to walk-ups. On the sixth or seventh apartment, he tells me he has a king-size bed that hes not willing to give up, said Bloomfield, who had to explain to the man that not only were the layouts of the older walk-ups in his price range not ideal for a king-size bed, she was not even sure he would be able to get it up the stairs.

The man held firm and ended up finding an apartment in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. At the end of the day, he was willing to move pretty far away from where he was looking to keep his bed, she said.

Deciding what to sacrifice can be difficult, however, especially as financial necessity compels most recent college grads to live with roommates who may not all be on the same page. It is not uncommon, brokers say, for one roommate to get stuck on a specific neighborhood or amenity that the other roommates are more than willing to do without. Several brokers recalled watching would-be roommates break up in the middle of showings.

Though the last few years have seen rents in the city level out, the breather came only after a relentless, yearslong climb, and rents remain prohibitively high for many New Yorkers in their 20s and 30s. Student loan debt is another big factor, Malin said: Incomes havent gone up that dramatically, but rents have gone up and student loan debt has gone up.

After college and law school, Kristen Pride recently moved back to Bedford-Stuyvesant, where she grew up. She wanted to find a one-bedroom, but could not afford the $2,300 and $2,400 rents she was seeing, not even on an attorneys salary, she said. Not with student loans.

Finally, she found something on StreetEasy in her price range  an older, unrenovated one-bedroom for $1,750 a month  and the broker was eager to put her application through. But she was reluctant. Rationally, she knew that the apartment was a good deal, but it felt like a lot to pay, especially for an older building.

In the end, she signed the lease, but she hasnt been able to bring herself to tell anyone in her family how much she pays. My dad doesnt know, she said. He is super passionate about gentrification. He gets so mad and is like, This is crazy, people shouldnt be paying this much in Bed-Stuy.'

To help those who simply cannot afford to live on their own, or dont want to, a number of options for finding a room or a roommate have sprung up in the past decade. They run the gamut from upscale co-living purveyors like WeLive, Common and Ollie, which offer furnished suites with housekeeping and access to other amenities, to cheaper options like Craigslist and increasingly popular Facebook groups like Gypsy Housing and NYC Housing, Rooms, Sublets & Apartments.

For the many people who move to New York without a full-time job  or a well-paid one  finding a sublet or pre-existing share are among the few available options. In most cases, going one of these routes means the renter can avoid having to submit pay stubs and bank records, or signing a yearlong lease. But the process can be grueling in other ways.

Matt Gelman, a 23-year-old copywriter and coder freelancing at a tech company in Dumbo, Brooklyn, recently moved into his second Williamsburg sublet, a $1,300-a-month room he found on Gypsy Housing. On the night he went to see the room, he was told that seven other people were interested, and because of a scheduling glitch, one of them would be touring it at the same time.

The other guy was clearly interested, so I had to prove I wanted it more, Gelman said. I emailed right away and said I wanted to meet the other roommates.

Actually, Gelman clarified, he Facebook messaged using Google translator, because the roommates, who were French, do not speak much English, and he does not speak French. Fortunately, they have since discovered that they all speak Spanish.

But while terrible first-apartment tales tend to get passed around like scary stories at a campfire, it is important to remember that not every first-time renting experience is harrowing.

As a senior at Emory University in 2016, Rifat Mursalin attended a presentation by a New York brokerage, but blanched at the prices of their listings. It was like $3,800 for a two-bedroom in Hells Kitchen, he said. Neither he nor his roommate felt the need to live in Manhattan, and we could care less about having a doorman or a gym. A friend suggested he try StreetEasy, where he found a no-fee two-bedroom in East Williamsburg for $2,200 a month.

It was quite daunting before I came here, but not when I arrived, said Mursalin, who also used the site to find his current apartment, a $2,200 two-bedroom in Long Island City. The neighborhood is known for its lushly amenitized new construction, but his building is a bare-bones walk-up. The only upgrade he insisted on, he said, was better transit.

And for all those put off by the price of New York apartments, there are some recent arrivals who find them comparatively reasonable. When Madeleine Goldsmith moved to the city from San Francisco last summer to start a new career as a theater producer, she was delighted to see her rent plummet from $1,500 a month to $1,075.

I was like, Thats a steal!' said Goldsmith, who shares a Harlem three-bedroom with two roommates. Its so much cheaper here. In San Francisco, there are no pockets of cheapness. And that apartment was rent-regulated  my roommate had lived there since 2012.

But she plans to move again this summer, in part because she realized she could be paying a lot less in some areas of Brooklyn or Queens. Im aiming lower for the next one, she said. Now I dont want to pay more than $800.

As for Laflamme, his story has a happy ending, too.

He decided to up his budget. I realized I had to increase to find anything that wasnt a 200-square-foot studio, he said.

And he started working with Barbara Satine, an agent at Triplemint who found him a spacious one-bedroom on the Upper West Side for $2,775 a month. Its charming, he said, and the landlord accepted both his Chihuahua and his Canadian credit score.

Honestly, its more than I was expecting, he said.

Of course, like everything in New York, there is a catch: It is a fifth-floor walk-up.

__A Guide to Getting Your First Apartment

So you think you have finally found the right apartment? Not so fast.

Many New York City landlords expect to see some hefty financial documentation from prospective tenants and their guarantors. To increase your chances of landing an apartment, brokers suggest collecting the following paperwork before even starting a search and, if possible, submitting it the same day you see an apartment.

Here is what you will need:

 Pay stubs, if you are already working, typically for the past two months.

 Otherwise, a letter from an employer stating your position, salary, length of employment or anticipated start date.

 Tax returns for at least two years.

 Recent bank statements, typically for the past three months.

 Proof of other income, such as revenue from stocks, securities, real estate or trust funds.

 Contact information for previous landlords.

 Personal references.

 Business references.

 A credit report (many landlords require a score of at least 600 and would like to see 700; most will also do their own credit check, for which they charge a nonrefundable fee, usually included in the application fee).

 Enough money on hand to cover initial costs.

____

For that ideal studio that rents for $2,300 a month, you will likely also need:

 A nonrefundable application fee of $50-$150.

 The first months rent of $2,300.

 The last months rent of $2,300 (this is not always required, as some landlords dont ask for it).

 A security deposit of $2,300.

 A brokers fee of 12 to 15 percent of the annual rent, or $3,312 to $4,140 (unless you get lucky and find an apartment without a broker).

The total: somewhere between $4,650 and $11,190.

____

What if you dont have enough income or a guarantor? Here are a few options:

 Try renting a condo: Individual condo owners tend to be more lenient about paperwork; while management companies might ask for six months or a year of rent up front, an individual might want just one extra month (although there may be an additional condo board application fee).

 Work with a company like Rhino, Jetty or Insurent: For a fee, they offer guarantor services and money for things like security deposits.

 Find a room share or sublet: Jack Clausen, the creative marketing officer at Gypsy Housing, said that room shares posted on the Facebook site range from $650 to more than $1,500. But while potential roommates may not ask you to submit pay stubs, they can still be fussy about employment and references, and might grill you on your kitchen habits.

 Look for apartments in the citys less expensive pockets and in no-frills buildings.

 Throw up a wall: In listing parlance, a flex one-bedroom means that the landlord will not mind if you put up a wall in a studio to create another bedroom. But check with building management before signing a lease to make sure this is allowed.African Heads of State boast some of the most elegant and intellectual first daughters. And not only do these First daughters enjoy the perks that come with being the scion of powerful people, they are highly desirable too.

Business Insider SSA takes a look at some of the continent's most beautiful First Daughters:

10. Bona Mugabe

Bona Mugabe is the daughter of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe and First Lady Grace Mugabe. She is married to Simba Chikore. The 27-year old has a Masters in banking and finance from Singapore.

She currently serves on the board member of Zimbabwes unpopular Censorship Board.

9. Thuthukile Zuma

Thuthukile is the youngest of South African president Jacob Zuma's four daughters with ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.

8.Zahra Buhari

Zahra simply looks stunning. The daughter of Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari is a Medical Microbiology student of the University of Surrey, United Kingdom.

She is married to Ahmed Indimi, the son of Nigerian businessman, Mohammed Indimi.

7. Isabel dos Santos

Isabel dos Santos is the oldest daughter of Angola's longtime president, Mr. Jose Eduardo dos Santos. Not only is she gorgeous but also filthy rich. Isabel is said to be worth $3.5 billion making her Africa's richest woman.

6. Brenda Biya

Anastasia Brenda Biya Eyenga (popularly known as Brenda Biya) is the first daughter of the Cameroon's President Paul Biya. The Instagram buff has an infectious smile that melts hearts.

She studies abroad and according to Cameroonian media she owns a 3-storey gated modern estate in a plush Beverly Hills neighbourhood.

5. Ngina Kenyatta

The soft spoken beauty is the second born in President Uhuru Kenyatta's family. She has a great interest in fashion and is a co-founder of Nomadic Brand which she runs with her brother Muhoho.

Ngina is a philanthropist at heart and also holds a degree in International Relations.

4. Malika Bongo Dimba

Malika is the first daughter of Gabon's President Ali Bongo Ondimba. A well-known champion for the rights and protection of women, Malika has previously worked for the UN in Geneva. She is married to Steve Dossou.

3. Aya Al-Sisi

Egyptians have described the only daughter of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi as courteous and polite. Not much is known about Aya who has three brothers: Mustafa, Mahmoud and Hassan.

ALSO READ: This is how much African presidents earn in a year compared with world leaders

2. Ange Kagame

Ange Kagame is the daughter of the Rwanda's current President Paul Kagame. Her statuesque height took many people by surprise soon after she took a photo with former US President Barrack Obama.

She has been involved in causes that include women empowerment, education and poverty eradication, as well as mass vaccination campaigns.

1. Princess Sikhanyiso Dlamini

And to cap of this list is the Princess Her Royal Highness Princess Sikhanyiso Dlamini, the eldest daughter of King Mswati III of Swaziland. The princess, also known as Pashu amongst her friends, is described as a stunning ebony lady with a brave heart.Two Nigerian-born pharmacists among other medical practitioners are going to face US court for being involved in the illegal distribution of addictive drugs worth over $9 million in street value.

Matthew Schneider, U.S. Attorney of Eastern District of Michigan, in a statement released on Thursday, May 31, 2018, charged three pharmacists, one doctor and two other individuals with conspiracy to illegally distribute prescription drugs.

Pharmacist Enitan Sodiya-Ogundipe, 42, of Novi, Pharmacist Abiodun Fabode, 56, of Chesterfield Township were said to have conspired with Amir Rafi, another pharmacist and Vasan Deshikachar, a medical doctor, to distribute more than 344,737 dosage units of Schedule II opioid prescriptions to vendors who sell them on the streets.

What is Schedule II Opioid?

Schedule II opioid painkillers include oxycodone, hydrocodone, oxymorphone, hydromorphone, morphine, codeine, meperidine and fentanyl. They can only be prescribed legally as more than 64,000 Americans died from the drug overdoses in 2016, according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

The complaint alleged that from January 2015 through March 2018, these pharmacists and doctor conspired with the other defendants to issue and dispense a large number of prescription opioid for supposed patients, who did not have a legitimate medical need for the drugs.

Also READ: Report says 2 million bottles of abused drug is still consumed daily in Kano

Charged in the indictment are: Pharmacist Enitan Sodiya-Ogundipe, 42, of Novi; Pharmacist Amir Rafi, 49, of Farmington Hills; Pharmacist Abiodun Fabode, 56, of Chesterfield Township; Dr. Vasan Deshikachar, 50, of Boca Raton, Florida, Nieshia Tibu, 44, of Canton; and Andrei Tibu, 30, of Canton.

Deshikachar primarily prescribed oxycodone and oxymorphone, two of the most addictive opioids that have high street value, the indictment announcement published on United States Department of Justice website reads.

How they worked out the prescription scheme

According to the court document, Dr Deshikachar primarily prescribed oxycodone and oxymorphone, two of the most addictive opioids that have high street value while Tibus would take the supposed patients to Precare Pharmacy, Global Health Pharmacy and Friendz Pharmacy, where Pharmacists Sodiya-Ogundipe, Rafi and Fabode would dispense the drugs.

The Tibus then obtained the drugs and sold them on the street.

"Before dispensing the medically unnecessary prescriptions, Enitan Sodiya-Ogundipe, Amir Rafi and Abiodun Fabode failed to exercise their corresponding professional responsibility to determine that the prescriptions were issued for a legitimate medical purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of professional practice," the complaint said.

"Diversion of prescription pills to the street market is a direct cause of the current opioid epidemic facing our country," U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider said. "We are focusing on charging doctors, pharmacists and the networks that are contributing to the opioid problem in our district."

"As we are in the midst of the worst opioid epidemic in our lifetime, it is important we team up with our federal partners and target those who peddle this death, Oakland County Sheriff Michael J. Bouchard said. We will go after street dealers, physicians, and pharmacists who choose to violate the law."

US government charges against them

- Sodiya-Ogundipe charged with one count of conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute, 24 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances and two counts of money laundering for engaging in monetary transactions with the criminal cash proceeds from her illicit pharmacy business.

- Amir Rafi charged with one count of conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute and 17 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances.

- Abiodun Fabode is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute and six counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances.

- Deshikachar charged with one count of conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute and 24 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances.

- Nieshia Tibu is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute, 30 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances, one count of obstruction of justice and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

- Andrei Tibu is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute and 30 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances.

Drug menace

Drug menace and related offences are rampant in the world. In Nigeria, drug abuse among the youths is increasing every day.

On Saturday, the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) sealed off 280 patent medicine stores for various unethical offences in Zamfara state.This decision not to sign the draft agreement came up several times during the interview and panel sessions at the FT Nigeria summit which held on Wednesday, May 31, 2018, often brought up by David Pilling, Africa Editor for FT.

1. Why Nigeria did not sign the AfCFTA

The summit kicked off with an opening keynote address by Mr Pilling. This was followed by an interview with Nigerias vice president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo. Among the questions Pilling asked the vice president was why Nigeria chose not to sign the treaty that would have, according to the AU, created a single continental market for goods and services, with free movement of business persons and investments. The agreement is aimed at removing barriers to trade, such as tariffs and import quotas, allowing the free flow of goods and services between members states.

The benefits are clear and immense. So, why did Nigeria not sign? The general answer the government provides is that more consultation needed to be done. It was not a question of when Nigeria would sign, but of what Nigeria would sign, the vice president said. He was referring to the intricacies of the deal and its impact on the Nigerian private sector.

During a later panel session, Onyeche Tifase, CEO, Siemens Nigeria, told Mr Pilling (after he resurfaced the question for the third or fourth time) that the decision to hold off on signing the treaty came not from the government, but from the private sector stakeholders involved. There were reservations about certain aspects of the deal and what it would mean for those doing business in Nigeria. Therefore, there was a need to go back and make further consultations to make sure we get it right.

2. How to attract American investors

Nigeria is not short of foreign investment. In 2017, it saw a 138.7 percent increase in capital inflow from the previous year. But, there is a specific concern about how American investors view Nigeria. This based on questions that arose during the summit.The corps members called on both the federal and state governments to improve on their welfare packages while embarking on a road walk along Ali Akilu road in the state capital.

According to Daily Post, the corps members also appealed to the government to improve on the welfare of staff of the scheme so as to enhance effective service delivery.

Currently, corps members across the country are paid N19,000 as monthly allowance.

However, on Monday, April 23, 2018, the NYSC Director-General, Sulaiman Kazaure said that the increase in corps members allowance will be determined by the Federal Government's new national minimum wage.

Kazaure while fielding questions from newsmen made the announcement after the swearing-in ceremony of the 2018 Batch A corps members at the NYSC orientation camp in Kusalla, Karaye Local Government Area of Kano state.

NYSC increases corps members transportation and local allowance

Barely two weeks after the announcement, the scheme management raised the hope of the serving corps members by increasing their local and transportation allowance.

ALSO READ: Now you can study herbal medicine in Nigerian Universities

Scheme's Director, Press and Publications Mrs Adenike Adeyemi announced the increase in the corps members allowances in a statement.

The statement states that the transport allowance for each corps member has been increased from N1,500 to N1,800, while their local allowance is now N1,400.

NYSC was established by Decree No. 24 of May 22, 1973 during the regime of General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd) which is now an Act of Parliament as a way of reuniting the country after the civil war that ended in 1970.Both Committees established that Prof. had more than one full paid job and took up probationary appointment after clicking 50 years of age.At the same 86th Regular meeting held on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, Council also upheld the dismissal of Dr Idris Isyaku Abdullahi of the Department of Accounting and Finance in the Faculty of Management Science for defamation of character, smear campaign/false claims against the University, the institution had alleged.

But in their reaction to the allegations during an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi, they said they were being witch-hunted for insisting that certain unwholesome practices in the institution, be checked or corrected.

According to the lecturers, the two committees set up, which recommendations were used to justify their sack, did not work with the terms of reference spelt out, as such it was a clear case of witch-hunt.

They said that considering the damaging press statement circulated on their purported dismissal, they had no option than to state their side of the story.

Rufai expressed surprise at the allegation of more than one full paid job and taking probationary appointment after clicking 50 years of age leveled against him.

Rufai, a Professor of Human Anatomy, said he found himself at ATBU as a member of a committee invited to come and establish the College of Medical Sciences of the institution.

My appointment was regularized by the institution thereafter, through the due process; if they are saying I was above 50 that time, didnt they see my document indicating my age? If they did, then whose fault? he queried.

The Don also said that the second allegation of having more than one full paid job was a calculated mischief as the institution was aware that there was a pending case before the Industrial Arbitration Court.

In his account, Dr Abdullahi told NAN that his ordeal had to do with his insistence that a student caught cheating red-handed during an examination, be punished, to serve as a deterrent to others.

According to him, a committee was set up to investigate the matter (cheating) but its outcome was swept under the carpet.

As I am talking to you now, the student has graduated but I am still insisting, through petitions to the appropriate authorities, that justice must be done because other students are watching.

All attempts to coerce, intimidate or cajole me into abandoning my position, has failed, hence the framing of allegations of defamation of character, smear campaign and false claims against the University, which was used to justify my dismissal.

He said that a case on the matter was before a Bauchi High Court, and therefore wondered why the institution still went ahead to act on it.

The culprit of the malpractice has dragged me to court for defamation and members of the public will be shocked by my revelation on the day I will testify.This was one of many tweets against the Buhari administration that may have led to the loss of her job.

ALSO READ: Why Seun Kuti Should Never Emulate 2face Idibia

Premium Times reports that the presidential amnesty office, where Ms Opukiri worked at the media unit, claimed that her abuse of government official was a threat to national security and dismissed her.

They claimed that her dismissal was as recommended by the public service rules.

Speaking with Premium Times, Opukiri said that her dismissal was a violation of her right to free expression which is listed in the Constitution, vowing to challenge it in the court.

Opukiri's latter of dismissal also claimed that she made false claims against a government official in her July 5 tweet, adding that the claims were prejudicial to state security and also inimical to the image of the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Niger-Delta Affairs.

According to the reports, the office based Opukiri's dismissal on public service rule (PSR) 030407, which defines false claims against government officials as a serious misconduct for which an employee should be dismissed as the ultimate penalty.

Other tweets Opukiri shared was a shade thrown at Mrs Buhari for challenging some hyenas and jackals within Buharis inner circle.

Her tweet also suggested that Ms Buhari might not be as classy as former first lady, Patience Jonathan.

Premium Times reports that the two tweets and other similar rants against Buhari administration figures were reportedly compiled by some petitioners and sent to the presidency.

Presidency says, President wont fight people who criticise him

Going by Miss Pukiri's case, the opposite of this statement seems to be the case.

However, it is worthy of note that the Presidency once said that it welcomes criticism from Nigerians and will not fight people who point our flaws in governance.

The comment was made by the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu in reaction to criticisms levelled against the president by Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi.

This government will not fight people for criticising the present administration led by President Buhari, Shehu told Punch on Thursday, August 25, 2016.

This kind of criticism is healthy for our democracy. One cannot get better without being criticised. I can assure you that this government is listening, he added.

Sanusi had warned, on Wednesday, August 25, that the Buhari government might make the same mistakes as the Goodluck Jonathan administration if it failed to retrace its steps on some policies.Instablog9ja reports that the deceased identified as Onyinye Aguluka was to get married barely a day after she was murdered in cold blood.

ALSO READ: Father stabs daughter in the stomach and runs away

According to the reports, Onyinye's father identified as Cletus Aguluka, aged 60, was arrested by members of the communitys vigilante group.

The group apprehended him during his attempt to flee the village shortly after committing the murder.

The mother of the deceased, Georgina, who reportedly gave an update on the incident stated that the suspect returned home late on Thursday looking drunk.

He reportedly asked for his torch from his children but did not receive a satisfactory answer from them.

The family thought the issue was over and went to bed but they were up for a rude awakening.

We thought he had forgotten about the torch until he woke up around 1 oclock in the night, went inside his room and brought out a machete and stabbed Onyinye who was fast asleep, Georgina said.

ALSO READ: Man peels skin of own daughter for not knowing her book

Cletus' younger brother, Sebastine Aguluka, said that the suspect had recently begun to molest almost every member of the extended family.Gistmania reports that the brothel was subsequently demolished, a charged which was led by the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Kaka Shehu Lawan and Commissioner for Land & Survey, Sugun Mai Mele as well as staff of the ministry as well as a high-Powered Committee set up by the Borno State Government.

ALSO READ: Two commercial sex workers stab customer to death

The committee has reportedly been charged with demolishing Illegal structures in the state and has seen over ten hotels in Baga road demolished yesterday, June 2, 2018.

According to the reports, the hostels which were situated behind the Baga Timber Shed include: Barka Da zuwa 1 & 2, Loyal City, Make We Flex, Favour land and Maintenance hotel, to name a few.

According to them, some unknown cult groups converged in this area for their late night meetings.

Gistmania also reports that a local baby factory was uncovered in the area, where young girls between the ages of 16 and 18 agree to marry miscreants who marry as many as four wives and keep them in abandoned buildings where they produce children.

Residents say that the buildings are notorious for hosting naming ceremonies almost on a daily basis.

ALSO READ: 5 prostitutes arrested for beating up customerDr Adamu Kwasarawa, Commander of Sokoto State Hisbah Commission, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Sokoto on Sunday.

ALSO READ: For abused women, the next hurdle is a divorce

Kwasarawa said that investigations conducted by the commission had revealed that ignorance on marriage responsibilities and non-meeting up with such responsibilities are the major causes of disagreement in marriages.

According to him, the commission which has 106 offices with 10,260 workers across the 23 local government areas of the state, records between 15 and 25 cases of matrimonial disputes daily.

Kwasarawa, therefore, advised parents and community leaders to always guide young persons interested in marriage to prevent marriage collapse.

ALSO READ: 138 women in Lagos charged to court for beating their husbands

He stressed the need for more knowledge on marital responsibilities between couples before consummating marriages.

The commander also attributed the rising cases of domestic violence among couples to ignorance and non-fulfillment of matrimonial responsibilities among couples.

He stated that most couples had no sound understanding of marriage responsibilities as well as physical and psychological nature which differ between man and woman, but assist in tolerating each others mistakes.

He further called on parents to always screen marriage partners and shun high expectation which, according to him, also contributes to disputes when a party doesnt play as expected.

Kwasarawa pointed out that Islam stipulated obligatory and supererogatory duties for husbands and wives in matrimonial settings, saying that most cases are emanating from polygamous families where the husband gives preference to one wife over the others.Saraki has been named as a person of interest by the police in the Offa robbery case that took place on April 5, 2018.

According to SaharaReporters, the Senate President and the Governor of Kwara state, Abdulfatah Ahmed have been named as sponsors of the dare-devil gang.

The suspects who were paraded by the police said that Saraki and Ahmed provided them with weapons, money and vehicles to run their operations.

Evidence against Saraki

The IG of police during his visit to Aso Rock, Abuja on Friday, June 1, 2018, informed Buhari of the alleged murder cases involving Saraki, numbering up to 20 and the President reportedly said that the law should be allowed to take its course as far as there was enough evidence backing the allegations, according to Premium Times.

Police statement

The police also issued a statement on Facebook explaining why it summoned the Senate President.

According to the force spokesman, Jimoh Moshood the ringleader of the Offa robbery gang, Ayoade Akinnibosun was arrested with a car registered in his name, that had the inscription- 'SARAKI' on its number plate.

Moshood also named some top Kwara state government officials closely linked to the Governor.

Saraki raises alarm

You will recall that the Senate President had earlier alleged that there was a plan by the Inspector-General of Police to link him with some cultists.

Saraki, on Wednesday, May 16, 2018, said that the cultists whose investigation had been completed and awaiting prosecution, have been ordered to be transferred to Abuja by IGP Idris.

He also revealed that the Kwara state governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, disclosed the plan to him.

The Senate President however described the move as an act of desperation and intimidation capable of undermining the Nigerian democracy.

Sarakis reaction

The Senate President, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, said that he cannot be involved with armed robbers.

Saraki denied having any links with the Offa robbery suspects and called on Nigerians to disregard the claims made by the Nigerian Police Force, describing it as an attempt to implicate him by all means.

The statement: The attention of the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has been drawn to a story circulating online and apparently derived from a Press Conference addressed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Moshood Jimoh, linking him (Saraki) to the Offa robbery.

Dr. Saraki will want the entire public to disregard this claim as a baseless allegation and another ploy by the Police to implicate him by all means. Let it be known that there is no way I could have been associated with armed robbery against my people.

"When the Offa robbery incident happened, I was the first top public official to pay a visit to the place and right there in the palace of the traditional ruler, I put a call through to this same Mr. Ibrahim Idris, the IGP, requesting him to make certain specific security arrangements as demanded by the people.

"Members of the public will remember that on May 16, 2018, I alerted the Senate about the information passed on to me by my State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatai Ahmed, over a plot by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Idris, to frame me up by getting some suspected cultists arrested in Ilorin to implicate me. It is believed that the timely leakage of the plot in that case aborted the use of the suspected cultists to implicate me. Now, it is the Offa bank robbery suspects that are about to be used.

"This plot is concocted to embarrass me and, in the mind of the IGP, it is his own response after his refusal to honour the invitation by the National Assembly, headed by me, for him to come and offer explanations on the rampant killings and violence across the country.

"Like the earlier one, this frame-up will also fail as I hereby state categorically that I have no link with any band of criminals.

ALSO READ:Saraki reveals plot to implicate him by IGP

"As a person who has utmost respect for the rule of law and all constitutional institutions, when the invitation from the Police is formally extended to me, I will be ready to honour it without any delay.

"It is however sad that this abuse of the criminal investigation process aimed at intimidating and over-overawing the legislature, thereby obstructing it from doing its work, is a big threat to our democracy."

DSS withdraws Saraki's security details

Also, the Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly withdrawn some of its operatives assigned to the Senate President.

The directive was issued from the agencys headquarters with an order that it should be carried out with immediate effect, according to The Cable.

The DSS operatives attached to the House of Representatives Speaker, Yakubu Dogara were also withdrawn.Baba said that the governments inability to end the killings by the group gives credence to the notion that it is another Boko Haram off-shoot.

I called on Federal Government and indeed all governing authorities at State and Local Government levels, to show greater resolve and take more concrete steps in stoping the evil carnage being perpetrated by Boko Haram and those that are Fulani Jihadist herdsmen.

Failure to rein in the prosecute these wicked men would only confirm the increasingly perceived notion that Boko Haram has rebranded themselves in form of the Fulani Jihadist herdsmen, and that they are carrying out their nefarious activities under the protection and covert support of Federal Government and its security agencies, he added.

The clergyman said this on Saturday, June 2, 2018, during his inaugural speech after he was installed as the new ECWA President in Jos, Plateau State, Sun Newspaper reports.

Civil war

According to Baba, the continued killing of Christians in the Middle-belt region of Nigeria might lead to a civil war.

He also added that women and children have suffered hardship and persecution in the hands of radical Islamists.

Leah Sharibu

He also spoke on the continued detention of Leah Sharibu, the Dapchi school girl that is being held by for refusing to denounce Christianity.

According to Baba, the issue might cause chaos in the country.

US Congressman on Fulani herdsmen issue

Also, a United States Congressman and senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Chris Smith has urged President Buhari to speak up against the herdsmen killings in various states across Nigeria.

Smith also expressed displeasure over the nonchalant attitude of the Nigerian government on the issue.

According to him, the killings, if not checked, will intensify as the 2019 elections draw near.Yerima also called on youths to rise up and take over governance of the country.

He thanked the President for signing the Not Too Young To run bill into law, adding that it is long overdue.

According to Daily Post, Yerima said that plans are underway to produce a candidate that can run against Buhari in 2019.

He said It is commendable that President Muhammadu Buhari signed the bill, but it is long overdue. It is also not enough to sign the bill, it must also be implemented. The youths must also rise to the occasion and work harder to take over the governance of this country.

With or without the bill, nobody can stop any Nigerian from contesting any position in this country. The youths have to rise to the occasion. That the president said the youths should wait till after 2023 is a matter of opinion.

There is nowhere it is stated in the constitution that Nigerian youths should not contest or should wait till after 2023. Nigerians will decide that.

Campaign financing

Yerima, while speaking about the ability of a young candidate to fund campaigns, said it is not all about money.

"Nigerians are now wiser, knowing that politics is not all about money; it is about capacity to deliver and take the country to the next level.

Moneybag politics has not taken this country anywhere; rather, we are retrogressing every day. It is high time we began to look at people based on merit, based on their capacity.

So, it is better to encourage the younger ones to take over the leadership of this country. Money or no money, we must ensure that credible leaders are elected.

I dont think Nigerians want to go back to the same thing over and over again. I strongly believe Nigerian youths can do it better, he added.

Buhari is too old

Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti state recently called on President Buhari to leave the stage for the younger ones.

The Governor also said that Buhari is too old to run as President in 2019.The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Fatima Atiku, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Sunday in Yola that the rumour was unfounded.

She however noted that the speculation followed the recent signing of the law establishing the hospital by Gov. Muhammadu Bindow.

Atiku explained that the measure taken by the governor was in line with the declaration of state of emergency on the health sector by the administration which has embarked on rehabilitation of some hospitals across the state.

The commissioner regretted the specialist hospital meant to be a referral centre had not seen any major rehabilitation since its establishment in 1958.

She explained that the law would enable the hospital be in position to source for fund through banks to financed its upgrading in view of the states lean purse.

So, government decided to go into Public Private Partnership with Bank of Infrastructure to finance the project which at the end will put the hospital in a better position to deliver quality services.

The development has nothing to do with privatisation as being speculated, she said.According to SaharaReporters, five of the suspects involved in the robbery named the Senate President and the Kwara state Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmedas their sponsors.

They also claimed that the Senate President and the kwara state Governor give them firearms, money and vehicles to carry out their operations.

Sarakis statement

In his reaction, the Senate President, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, denied any links with the Offa robbery suspects.

Saraki also called on Nigerians to disregard the claims made by the Nigerian Police Force, describing it as an attempt to implicate him by all means.

The statement reads: The attention of the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has been drawn to a story circulating online and apparently derived from a Press Conference addressed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Moshood Jimoh, linking him (Saraki) to the Offa robbery.

Dr. Saraki will want the entire public to disregard this claim as a baseless allegation and another ploy by the Police to implicate him by all means. Let it be known that there is no way I could have been associated with armed robbery against my people.

"When the Offa robbery incident happened, I was the first top public official to pay a visit to the place and right there in the palace of the traditional ruler, I put a call through to this same Mr. Ibrahim Idris, the IGP, requesting him to make certain specific security arrangements as demanded by the people.

"Members of the public will remember that on May 16, 2018, I alerted the Senate about the information passed on to me by my State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatai Ahmed, over a plot by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Idris, to frame me up by getting some suspected cultists arrested in Ilorin to implicate me. It is believed that the timely leakage of the plot in that case aborted the use of the suspected cultists to implicate me. Now, it is the Offa bank robbery suspects that are about to be used.

They will fail

The Senate President also said that the plot to frame him up will not succeed.

He also alleged that the claim by the police is part of IGP Idris plan to get back at him following his summon to the Senate.

"This plot is concocted to embarrass me and, in the mind of the IGP, it is his own response after his refusal to honour the invitation by the National Assembly, headed by me, for him to come and offer explanations on the rampant killings and violence across the country.

"Like the earlier one, this frame-up will also fail as I hereby state categorically that I have no link with any band of criminals.

ALSO READ:Saraki reveals plot to implicate him by IGP

"As a person who has utmost respect for the rule of law and all constitutional institutions, when the invitation from the Police is formally extended to me, I will be ready to honour it without any delay.

"It is however sad that this abuse of the criminal investigation process aimed at intimidating and over-overawing the legislature, thereby obstructing it from doing its work, is a big threat to our democracy ", the Senate President added.

The police has also issued a statementexplaining why it summoned the Senate President to clear the air on his involvement in the Offa robbery incident.Over 30 people were killed in a deadly armed robbery attack that took place on April 5, 2018.

According to Punch, the police spokesman, ACP Jimoh Moshood in a statement issued on Facebook, said that Saraki is being invited to report to the Police to answer allegations indicting him from confessions of five gang leaders arrested for active participation in Offa bank robberies and killings of 33 innocent persons.

SaharaReporters had earlier reported that the gang members named Saraki and the Kwara state Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed as their sponsors.

They said that the duo give them firearms, money and vehicles to carry out their operations.

You will recall that the Senate President had alleged that there was a plot to implicate him by

See the full statement below:

Update Of Police Investigation Into The Offa Banks Robbery And Gruesome Murder Of More Than Thirty Three (33) Innocent Persons Including Pregnant Women And Nine (9) Police Officers On 5th April, 2018, In Offa, Kwara State.

 Twenty Two (22) Suspects now in Police Custody.

 Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki is being invited to report to the Police to answer allegations indicting him from confessions of Five (5) Gang leaders arrested for active participation in Offa Bank Robbery and Killings of THIRTY THREE (33) Innocent persons.

Suspects:

i. Ayoade Akinnibosun a.k.a AY M 37Yrs  Gang Leader (Coordinated the Killings) From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State.

ii. Ibukunle Ogunleye M 36Yrs  Gang Leader, Killed Two (2) Persons. From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State

iii. Adeola Abraham M 35Yrs  Gang Leader, Killed Five (5) Persons. From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State.

iv. Salawudeen Azeez M 49Yrs  Gang Leader, Killed Two (2) Persons. From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State.

v. Niyi Ogundiran M 37Yrs  Gang Leader, Killed Two (2) Persons (Latest Confession). From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State.

vi. Michael Adikwu M 30Yrs  Sectional Gang Leader, Killed Twenty Two (22) Persons, mostly at the Police Station.

vii. Kabiru Afolabi M 26Yrs  Principal Suspect

viii. Omoseni Kassim M 28Yrs  Principal Suspect

ix. Kayode Opadokun M 35Yrs  Principal Suspect

x. Kazeem Abdulrasheed M 36Yrs  Principal Suspect

xi. Azeez Abdullahi M 27Yrs  Principal Suspect

xii. Adewale Popoola M 22Yrs  Principal Suspect

xiii. Adetoyese Muftau M 23Yrs  Principal Suspect

xiv. Alexander Reuben M 39Yrs  Principal Suspect

xv. Richard Buba Terry M 23Yrs  Principal Suspect

xvi. Peter Jasper Kuunfa M 23Yrs  Principal Suspect

xvii. Ikechukwu Ebuka Nnaji M 29Yrs  Principal Suspect

xviii. Moses Godwin M 28Yrs  Principal Suspect

xix. Adeola omiyale M 38Yrs. From Isanlu Isin Town, Isin LGA, Kwara State.

xx. Femi Idowu M 34Yrs

xxi. Alabi Olalekan M 49Yrs-PA Political to Executive Governor, Kwara State

xxii. Yusuf Abdulwahab M 58Yrs Chief of Staff to Executive Governor, Kwara State

Exhibits

i. Two (2) AK47 Rifles

ii. Two (2) Barrette Pistols

iii. One (1) Pump Action Rifle

iv. One (1) Revolver Pistol  In Police Custody in Ilorin

v. Lexus RX300 Jeep with Reg. No. Kwara, KMA 143 RM belonging to Ayoade Akinnibosun (Gang Leader)  Used for the Bank Robbery

vi. Mercedes Benz  Compressor with Reg. No. Lagos LT496 KJA belonging to Ayoade Akinnibosun (Gang Leader)  Used for the Bank Robbery

vii. One (1) Toyota Prado Jeep with Reg. No. 19KWGH belonging to the PA Political to the Executive Governor, Kwara State  In Police Custody in Ilorin

viii. One (1) Toyota Camry Saloon Car with Reg. No. LRN 481 FE  In Police Custody in Ilorin

ix. The Cash Sum of Six Hundred Thousand Naira (N600,000.00)  In Police Custody in Ilorin

x. Four (4) Phones of victims recovered

xi. One (1) Sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony

The investigation into the Offa Bank Robbery and gruesome killings of more than THIRTY THREE (33) Innocent persons in Offa, Kwara State on the 5th April, 2018 directed by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim K. Idris, NPM, mni, has made significant progress, successes and more revelations have been recorded. The Gang Leaders and some of the principal suspects arrested for their active participation in the robbery and the killing of innocent persons have made confessional statements admitting to the various criminal roles they and their sponsors played in this dastard and heinous crime.

2. The Five (5) gang leaders namely; Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibukunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salawudeen Azeez, Niyi Ogundiran and some of the other Seventeen (17) suspects arrested for direct involvement and active participation in the Offa Bank Robbery and the gruesome killing of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons which includes (some pregnant women and nine (9) Police personnel) admitted, confessed and volunteered statements that they were political thugs of the Senate President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Bukola Saraki and the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Alh. Abdulfatah Ahmed.

3. The arrests of the above mentioned Five (5) Gang Leaders and seventeen (17) others were made possible after the arrest of two principal suspects (Kunle Ogunleye aka Arrow 35yrs and Michael Adikwu an Ex-Convict) whose pictures captured by CCTV in one of the Banks during the Banks robbery were circulated to the media and the public. The two (2) principal suspects confessed to be among the suspects led by the five (5) gang leaders listed in paragraph 2 above to carry out the Offa Banks Robbery, the attack on the Divisional Police Headquarters, Offa and the killings of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons on the 5th of April, 2018.

4. During interrogation, the five (5) gang leaders mentioned in paragraph 2 further confessed and volunteered statements that they carried out the Bank Robberies, the attack on the Divisional Police Headquarters in Offa and the killings of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons during the robbery of the following six (6) banks (i) First Bank Offa (ii) Guarantee Trust Bank Offa (iii) ECO Bank Offa (iv) Zenith Bank Offa (v) Union Bank Offa (vi) Ibolo Micro Finance Bank Offa and (vii) the Divisional Police Headquarters, Offa on 5th April, 2018.

5. Millions of Naira from the Banks and Twenty One (21) AK47 Rifles belonging to the Nigeria Police Force in the Armoury of the Police Divisional Headquarters, Offa were admitted to have been carted away by the Five (5) gang leaders and the other Seventeen (17) principal suspects during the Banks robbery.

6. The Five (5) gang leaders confessed and volunteered statements to the Police investigators, giving a clear account of how they planned and carried out the Banks robbery operation in Offa, the attack on the Police Division in Offa and how they killed the THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons during the robbery.

7 The Five (5) gang leaders further confessed during investigation that they are political thugs under the name Youth Liberation Movement a.k.a Good Boys admitted and confessed to have been sponsored with firearms, money and operational vehicles by the Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki and the Governor of Kwara State, Alh. Abdulfatah Ahmed.

8. In the course of discreet investigation into the confessions of these five (5) gang leaders and the other seventeen (17) principal suspects, a Lexus jeep GX-300 (Ash Colour) with a sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony used by the gang leader (Ayoade Akinnibosun M 37Yrs) during the bank robbery and the killing of the THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons was taken to Government House, Ilorin on 16th May, 2018 where the sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony was removed before another plate number (Reg. No. Kwara, KMA 143 RM) registered in the name of Ayoade AKinnibosun the Overall Commander of the Offa Bank Robbery was then attached to the vehicle to cover up the identity of the said vehicle. The exhibit vehicle was subsequently recovered from the premises of the Min. of Environmental and Forestry in Ilorin, Kwara State. While the sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony removed from the vehicle was recovered from one Adeola Omiyale who drove the said Lexus Jeep to Government House, Ilorin immediately after the Bank Robbery.

9. The Personal Assistant (Political) to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Alabi Olalekan, who is privy to information that the Police is looking for the lexus Jeep as an exhibit used in the Offa Bank Robbery and the killings of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons directed one Adeola Omiyale to relocate the Lexus Jeep to Government House, Ilorin. The PA (Political) is currently in Police custody and has made useful statement assisting the Police in further investigation into the case. A revolver pistol and pump action gun were recovered by the Police Investigation Team from the Personal Assistant (Political) to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Alabi Olalekans Farm where he directed his brother to hide them after his arrest by the Police.

10. In order to conceal evidence, the Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Yusuf Abdulwahab who has been arrested and taken into Police custody, arranged the removal of the sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony from the exhibit vehicle and also registered the exhibit Lexus Jeep used in the Offa Bank Robbery and the killings of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons in the name of Ayoade AKinnibosun, the overall Gang Commander of the Offa Bank Robbery while the Ayoade AKinnibosun was already in Police custody for more than six (6) days before the registration of the vehicle.

11. Investigation is ongoing and effort is being intensified to arrest other suspects still at large. All suspects involved will be arraigned in court for prosecution on completion of investigation.

12. Meanwhile, the Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki is being invited by the Nigeria Police Force to report to the Force Intelligence Response Team office at Guzape, Abuja to answer to the allegations levelled against him from the confessions of the Five (5) Gang Leaders, namely; Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibukunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salawudeen Azeez, Niyi Ogundiran and some of the other Seventeen (17) suspects arrested for direct involvement and active participation in the Offa Bank Robbery and the gruesome killing of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons which includes (some pregnant women and nine (9) Police personnel).

13. The Nigeria Police Force will continue to ensure that the rule of law prevails in every case under Police investigation and every offender is brought to justice.According to the police, Saraki will be questioned regarding his relationship with the robbery suspects that were recently arrested.

Punch reports that the police spokesman, Jimoh Moshood made the announcement on Sunday, June 3, 2018, while parading 22 arrested suspects connected to the robbery.

He said Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki is being invited by the Nigeria Police Force to report to the Force Intelligence Response Team office at Guzape, Abuja to answer to the allegations levelled against him from the confessions of the Five (5) Gang Leaders, namely; Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibukunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salawudeen Azeez, Niyi Ogundiran and some of the other Seventeen (17) suspects arrested for direct involvement and active participation in the Offa Bank Robbery and the gruesome killing of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons which includes (some pregnant women and nine (9) Police personnel), according to Premium Times.

The robbery incident

On Thursday, April 5, 2018, a group of armed robbers attacked some commercial banks along Owode Market Area in Offa, Kwara state.

According to reports in the media, over 30 people were killed in the robbery that lasted for hours.

The robbers attacked Union Bank, Eco Bank, Guarantee Trust Bank, First Bank, Zenith Bank and Ibolo Micro Finance Bank, and escaped with an undisclosed amount of money.

Saraki raises alarm

The Senate President had earlier raised an alarm saying that the police was planning to implicate him in the robbery incident that took place in Offa.

Dino Melaye implicated

In March 2018, two suspected criminals reportedly confessed to the Kogi state police commandthat Senator Dino Melaye gives them arms and sponsors them financially.

The two suspects, who are members of an armed gang, were paraded by the police in Kogi.

The suspects, Kabiru Saidu and Nuru Salisu, who were paraded in Lokoja, were caught with AK-47 rifles and pump action firearms.

Melaye was recently released on bail after he was sentenced to jail despite being on a wheel chair.

ALSO READ:How police arrested Offa robbery suspects

Shehu Sanis case

Outspoken Kaduna Senator, Shehu Sani was recently named by the policeas a person of interest in a murder investigation.

Reports say that the summon was connected to a violent confrontation between Sanis supporters and those of the Kaduna state governor, Nasir el-Rufai.

In a twist of events, a member of a Kaduna Civilian Joint Task Force,Garba Isa accused the Nigerian military of forcing him to implicate Senator Sani in a murder case.

Isa, who had been detained for his alleged involvement in the death of one Lawan Maiduna, said the military tortured him to claim that Sani asked him to murder the victim.

Meanwhile, it has been discovered that that caused mayhem in Offa in April is Micheal Adikwu.Owoseni, who made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, noted that the clashes between the two groups was a major security challenge in the state.

The major security challenge in is the herdsmen and farmers clashes and different approaches have been used to check it, he said.

The commissioner said that the approaches adopted by the command to contain the incident included dialogue, intelligence policing as well as involvement of communities in activities of the command.

He explained that normal strategies of policing and community-based strategies in policing were also adopted to check the security challenges.

The security architecture has been put in place after IG-P Ibrahim Idris went to the state for an assessment before I was deployed to the state, he said.

He added that the command had followed the strategies adopted all along and utilised both human and material resources available.

The commissioner said that the deployment of 15 Police Mobile Units (PMF) to the state was an added advantage.

He said that the commands good working relationship with sister security agencies and support of the state government helped in curtailing the challenge.

The commissioner said that a number of arrest have been made in connection to the clashes and they were being prosecuted in the court.

Every security institution that is present in Benue is up and doing, quite a number of arrest were made and the police, being the institution through which prosecution is made, the suspects are being arraigned in court.

The Army, NSCDC and members of the public do arrest and handover to us. I wont be able to give the exact figure but quite a number of arrests have been made and they have been arraigned in court, he said.

On cultism, he said that a number of arrests have been made, adding that the new cultism law had also addressed the issue in the state.

We are lucky that the state has a new law that addresses the issue of cultism that is stringent and those arrested have been charged to court under the law, he said.

He urged Benue people to continue to support security agencies in the state as the task of securing the community was not just that of security agencies.

Owoseni reminded Nigerians and Benue people in particular that there was no name tag to crime and criminality.Girls remain more likely to miss out on a formal education, making up 60 percent of the 3.7 million children aged between seven and 17 not at school.

The figure rose as high as 85 percent in some of the worst-affected provinces, reflecting pervasive gender-based discrimination in parts of the deeply conservative Muslim country.

Child marriages and a shortage of female teachers were additional factors keeping girls away from the classroom.

The report by United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) also estimated that up to 300,000 children are at risk of dropping out before the end of the year.

Those children most at risk often live in rural areas and face displacement, insecurity and a lack of schooling facilities.

"Business as usual is not an option for Afghanistan if we are to fulfil the right to education for every child," UNICEF's Afghanistan representative Adele Khodr said.

"When children are not in school, they are at an increased danger of abuse, exploitation and recruitment."

While the numbers are worrying, the study also noted some progress.

It said school dropout rates are low in comparison to neighbouring countries such as Pakistan and Nepal, with some 85 per cent of Afghan boys and girls who start primary school going on to complete the last grade."Today we remember those who died and the many more who were injured, and also pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened or came to the aid of others," said Prime Minister Theresa May.

She branded the June 3 attack "a cowardly attempt to strike at the heart of our freedoms by deliberately targeting people enjoying their Saturday night with friends and family" and noted that seven of the victims were foreign nationals.

"This is a reflection of our great cosmopolitan capital, whose energy and values brings together people from across the world, and a tragic reminder that the threat from terrorism transcends borders and impacts us all," she said.

On Sunday morning Home Secretary Sajid Javid announced that a new review of counter-terrorism legislation in Britain would be launched on Monday -- including a provision to recruit up to 2,000 extra security officers in Britain's intelligence services.

"One of the other announcements I'll be making tomorrow is that MI5 will be sharing much more of its information with other organisations," he said on the BBC's Andrew Marr show.

"Not just with counter terrorism police but neighbourhood police, with local government... to make sure that there is a much higher chance of finding some of these extremists and disrupting plots a lot earlier on."

Later on Sunday the words #LondonUnited will be projected onto the bridge following a minute of silence scheduled for 4:30 pm (1530GMT).

Candles will be lit by relatives of the victims during the ceremony before an olive tree -- known as the Tree of Healing -- is planted in the cathedral grounds using compost from floral tributes left on the bridge in the aftermath of the murders.

Preparations

Among those visiting the cathedral for the service on the south bank of the Thames, set to include a procession to the bridge, will be Frenchwoman Christine Delcros, 46.

She was seriously injured in the vehicle-ramming attack whilst her partner Xavier Thomas, 45, was killed, with his body later recovered from the River Thames.

"On the psychological level, the wounds are invisible, but they are the most serious," she told AFP in an interview this week.

"I remain traumatised by the loss of the love of my life, in circumstances beyond my comprehension."

On Saturday preparations for the ceremony were underway with cleaners working on the bridge -- now fitted with anti-vehicle crash barriers to prevent cars and vans from mounting the pavement.

On Friday PC Wayne Marques, who took on the three attackers solo with his baton and was stabbed in the head, revealed he was planning to return to work next month after a year of rehabilitation.

"I'm just basically trying to get as much of me back as possible," he said in a video released by the British Transport Police.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, who will attend the ceremony, said the city would honour the victims "through our actions and standing united against terrorism and in hope for the future".

"The cowardly terrorists who commit these horrific acts do so to try to divide us, to fuel fear and to change how we treat one another. I'm proud of the way we have responded: standing united in defiance and staying true to our values and way of life," he said in a statement.

The attackers were shot dead outside Borough Market eight minutes after the first emergency call was made.A Polish defence ministry "information document" emerged this week showing that Warsaw could spend between $1.5 to $2 billion (1.3 to 1.7 billion euros) to help cover the cost of stationing a US tank unit in Poland.

The proposal triggered immediate criticism from Moscow, with the Kremlin insisting that any such deployment "will not benefit in any way the security and stability on the continent".

The US has ramped up its presence on NATO's eastern flank and notably Poland since Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine.

The united States leads a multi-national NATO battle group in Poland. Germany, Britain and Canada command three others in nearby Baltic states Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, where Saber Strike manoeuvres are planned.

"They (NATO battalions) will be specifically tested during Saber Strike, it demonstrates the alliance commitment to one another," US Brigadier General Richard Coffman told officials at Sunday ceremonies in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius launching the exercises.

The exercises demonstrate "the enhanced flexibility of ground and air forces to rapidly respond to a crisis. This allows for the right presence where we need it," he said, adding that "we are fully capable to conduct combined and joined operations."

Cementing ties

Speaking in Warsaw on Monday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said he expected leaders at a July NATO summit in Brussels to "make decisions on reinforcement, readiness and military mobility" of forces in Europe, particularly with regard to the four battle groups deployed since 2016.

The US army also set up a new European headquarters in Poland in May 2017 to command some 6,000 of its troops deployed in NATO and Pentagon operations in the region.

The move was one of the largest deployments of US forces in Europe since the Cold War and was meant to reassure NATO's easternmost allies spooked by Russia's frequent military exercises near their borders and the Crimea annexation.

Further cementing strong defence ties with Washington, Poland signed a $4.75-billion (3.8-billion-euro) contract in March to purchase a US-made Patriot anti-missile system, in its largest-ever weapons deal.

Moscow complained about the prospect of the deployment of Patriot systems in Poland and Romania, which it says violates a 1987 arms treaty and could be tailored to shoot missiles at Russia.

In February, Lithuania accused Russia of permanently deploying nuclear-capable Iskander ballistic missiles to its Kaliningrad exclave.A Polish defence ministry "information document" emerged this week showing that Warsaw could spend between $1.5 to $2 billion (1.3 to 1.7 billion euros) to help cover the cost of stationing a US tank unit in Poland.

The proposal triggered immediate criticism from Moscow, with the Kremlin insisting that any such deployment "will not benefit in any way the security and stability on the continent".

The US has ramped up its presence on NATO's eastern flank and notably Poland since Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine.

The US army set up a new European headquarters in Poland in May 2017 to command some 6,000 of its troops deployed in NATO and Pentagon operations in the region.

The move was one of the largest deployments of US forces in Europe since the Cold War and was meant to reassure NATO's easternmost allies spooked by Russia's frequent military exercises near their borders and the Crimea annexation.

Cementing ties

The US also leads a multi-national NATO battle group in Poland. Germany, Britain and Canada command three others in nearby Baltic states Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, where Saber Strike manoeuvres are planned.

Speaking in Warsaw on Monday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said he expected leaders at a July NATO summit in Brussels to "make decisions on reinforcement, readiness and military mobility" of forces in Europe, particularly with regard to the four battle groups deployed in 2016.

Further cementing strong defence ties with Washington, Poland signed a $4.75-billion (3.8-billion-euro) contract in March to purchase a US-made Patriot anti-missile system, in its largest-ever weapons deal.

Moscow complained about the prospect of the deployment of Patriot systems in Poland and Romania, which it says violates a 1987 arms treaty and could be tailored to shoot missiles at Russia.

In February, Lithuania accused Russia of permanently deploying nuclear-capable Iskander ballistic missiles to its Kaliningrad exclave.The head of state has in recent days been unpredictable, something which has kept his allies on their toes as they do not know which card he will pull next.

Case in point was when he entered a deal with his erstwhile political rival Raila Odinga and when he unveiled his cabinet in his second term in office, catching many by Surprise

He has also been abrasive and tough especially in the fight against corruption and has gone to extreme lengths to protect public interests, vowing to nail all those involved in corruption regardless of who they are.

Reports indicate that Cabinet secretaries and senior government officials are sitting tense after the president ordered investigations into their conduct and dealings, not knowing who will be shown the door.

Gone is the president who at one point expressed helplessness in the fight against graft and who was.

In the midst of the changes, the president has however kept touch with the plight of the common man, occasionally touching the lives of ordinary citizens in kind gestures.

Analysts opine that these changes may have been driven by the desire to leave behind a solid legacy.

Some also opine that serving his last time, he has nothing to lose and as such is not afraid to take risks and decisions that may be unpopular among some of his key allies.During the one-day visit, Obama will hold talks with President Uhuru Kenyatta at State House.

He is also expected to travel to his ancestral home of Kogelo in Siaya county to meet his relatives.

Afterwards, the globally acclaimed statesman will fly to South Africa to deliver the annual Nelson Mandela lecture.

According Sunday Nation, sources privy to the details revealed that plans for the visit have been underway even as State House Spokesman Manoah Esipisu politely declined to comment on the visit stating that President Obamas office will make an announcement.

Details about the visit remain scanty and it is not clear if his family will be accompanying his during the visit.

Sources further revealed that a reputable Publc Relations company has been contracted to handle the visit. The exact timelines are yet to be confirmed but he will visit Kenya en route to South Africa

The former US President who enjoys support from across the political divide is also expected to hold talks with the opposition leaders.

Obama last visited the country in 2015 while serving as the US president in a high profile visit that saw him hold talks with politicians from across the political divide.

During his last visit, Obama promised to visit Kenya as a private citizen to indulge in various activities.QUIZ: Guess the Road Songs

We can't wait to get back on the road again! Play this quiz and see if how many you can get right!Newshub News Desk

Newshub welcomes your news tips and information.

Please email us: news@newshub.co.nz or

call the news team on 0800 Newshub.

The network news centre is in Auckland, with journalists in Wellington and Christchurch, as well as the Press Gallery office at Parliament, combined with a team of freelance reporters around the country.



Newshub supplies news and sport to all 140 MediaWorks radio stations, making it the most listened-to commercial radio news service in New Zealand.

Newshub is owned by Discovery New Zealand.IWPR, April 20, 2018

By Zulmai Ashna

Activists in the northeastern province of Takhar are warning that despite hundreds of cases of child sexual assault reported to the police each year, very few criminal investigations are ever opened.

They claim that not only are the police apparently reluctant to pursue cases, but that widespread corruption has also served to derail any access to justice. Issues of shame associated with these types of crime also mean that families of victims also often prefer to turn to tribal mediation and other informal justice processes.

As part of a two-month investigation, IWPR looked at 38 cases of alleged sexual assault on children carried out over a two-year period.



"Afghan dancing boys", a common practice among Afghan warlords. (Photo: BBC) "Afghan dancing boys", a common practice among Afghan warlords. (Photo: BBC)

Most of the families of these victims complained to the police, but never had their cases referred to the attorneys office.

Some instances involved the practice of keeping so-called dancing boys, known as bacha bazi. Condemned by rights activists and clerics, this custom involves older men making young boys perform at private parties, after which they are often sexually abused.

Psychologist Waseem Rahel told IWPR that the practice of bacha bazi was partly responsible for the cases of child sexual abuse, exacerbated by high rates of poverty and large families with many children to support.

Hayatullah Mawlawizada has headed the Takhar police childrens rights support unit for the last four years. He said he believed that many accused attackers had influence with officials in the criminal investigation department, meaning that they avoided prosecution.

Takhars police prefer personal relations to justice, and that means people dont trust law enforcement, he said, adding that a lack of oversight by the ministry of interior affairs allowed this practice to continue year after year.

Opposing police justice is a clear violation of the laws, he continued.

Mawlawizada estimated that as many as 400 cases of child sexual assault were reported across the province each year.

However, local police units, generally failed to pursue these reports, preferring to refer them to tribal mediation instead. As a result, he said, only ten to 15 cases were registered each year.

Some cases are prosecuted, but end with the assailant receiving a very light sentence.

Sharafatullah, (not his real name) a 13-year-old from Guzar-e-Marshal Fahim in Taluqan city told IWPR that he had been assaulted after leaving his home on the evening of December 23, 2017 to visit relatives in Balak Wartebz village. On the way there he met Naqeebullah, the owner of a bakery shop, who told him it was too late in the day to travel to a remote village and invited him to stay at his shop. New to the area, the boy said that he felt he had no other choice but to accept, and when they arrived at the bakery Naqeebullah offered him some food and drink.

When it was night and I wanted to sleep, Naqeebullah came to my bed and told me that he wanted to stay with me because the weather was cold and together we would be warm in bed. Then he asked me to have anal sex with him. I said no but he raped me, Sharafatullah said.

Naqeebullah was arrested after a community member alerted the police. Fareeda Shijaee, Naqeebullahs defence lawyer, told IWPR that Takhars primary court had sentenced her client to four months in prison on March 17, 2018.

Another boy, 12-year-old Shahabuddin (not his real name) from Jeetbar village in Takhars Chal district, told IWPR that he had been assaulted by a local youth on the morning of November 21, 2017 as he walked to the mosque. He said that 19-year-old Mirwais forced him to go with him into an abandoned building.

I screamed and shouted, but no one heard me and then Mirwais took my trousers off and raped me, Shahabuddin said.

The boys mother told IWPR that she had found her son unconscious and bleeding. The family informed the police about the attack and Shahabuddin underwent a medical examination that verified the assault.

Najeebullah Sabori, a prosecutor with Takhars primary court, said that Mirwais had been sentenced to three years in prison for sexual assault on December 31, 2017.

As in Mirwais case, alleged assaults are often referred to the provincial forensic medical department for tests to verify that an assault had taken place.

But Atta Mohammad Shafiq, head of forensic medicine at Takhars department of public health, said that he had personally been put under pressure several times not to report confirmed evidence of abuse.

Shafiq said that they had recorded 97 cases of child sexual abuse in the last year. Out of these, 55 were cases of sexual assault on girls and 42 on boys. Many had occurred in the villages of Takhar province.

Shafiq said that until a year ago they had lacked any processes to record the number of cases of assault, so he was unable to provide figures for previous years. The ministry of public health in Kabul had not asked them to keep records either.

But he said he believed around 100 cases of child sexual abuse were referred to them each year.

Shafiq said that if their tests confirmed that a child had indeed been abused, the finding were supposed to be sent to the tTakhars attorney office. There, however, officials had in the past put pressure on him to alter the results.

The prosecutors threatened and pressured me to show positive forensic results as negative, and I had to do this, although I dont want to, Shafiq said.

Syed Akbar, head of the Takhars lawyers union, told IWPR that the number of child sexual abuse cases in Takhar was far higher than any official figures showed. He said that shame over sexual assault also meant that most incidents were never reported.

I assume that rape and sexual assault cases arent referred to judiciary and justice sectors. So justice isnt served and done and the rights of victims are violated, Akbar said.

IWPR made seven requests for an interview with Mohammad Ghaws Amiri, chief of Takhars attorney appellate office, to ask him about the concerns raised by Shafiq. However, Amiri refused to speak to IWPR.

This report was produced under IWPRs Supporting Investigative Reporting in Local Media and Strengthening Civil Society across Afghanistan initiative, funded by the British Embassy Kabul.Ariana News, May 10, 2018



According to UNAMA, these incidents have resulted in 271 civilians killed and injured, with the vast majority of civilian casualties occurring on 22 April from a suicide attack among a crowd gathered outside a national identity card distribution centre in Kabul, resulting in 198 civilian casualties. The photo shows blood-stained national ID papers of a woman following the April 22 suicide attack, with photos of other voters lying on the ground. (Photo: Rahmat Gul/AP) According to UNAMA, these incidents have resulted in 271 civilians killed and injured, with the vast majority of civilian casualties occurring on 22 April from a suicide attack among a crowd gathered outside a national identity card distribution centre in Kabul, resulting in 198 civilian casualties. The photo shows blood-stained national ID papers of a woman following the April 22 suicide attack, with photos of other voters lying on the ground. (Photo: Rahmat Gul/AP)

A new report released by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) on Thursday, details a disturbing pattern of attacks at election-related facilities following the commencement of voter registration for the October 2018 polls.

UNAMA in a statement said that it has verified 23 election-related security incidents since voter registration began on 14 April.

According to UNAMA, these incidents have resulted in 271 civilians killed and injured, with the vast majority of civilian casualties occurring on 22 April from a suicide attack among a crowd gathered outside a national identity card distribution centre in Kabul, resulting in 198 civilian casualties.

I am outraged by these attacks deliberately targeting civilians seeking to exercise their constitutional right to vote, said Tadamichi Yamamoto, the UN Secretary-Generals Special Representative for Afghanistan. These attacks at election facilities are nothing less than an assault on democracy.

The new report, Emerging Trends of Election-Related Security Incidents in Afghanistan, details how approximately 75 percent of the security incidents since 14 April have taken place at schools or mosques used for election-related purposes, and describes allegations of intimidation of elections-related staff and those seeking to participate in the polls.

Those who are registering to vote have my utmost respect; they are exercising their constitutional right and putting hope for Afghanistans future above concerns about their personal safety, said Yamamoto, who is also head of UNAMA. The United Nations, along with the broader international community, remains committed to supporting an Afghan-led elections process.

According to international human rights law, everyone has the right to take part in public affairs, to vote and to be elected to government without discrimination and without unreasonable restrictions. All citizens  whether voters, candidates or election-related staff  have the right to be free from fear and intimidation at all stages of an elections process, from voter registration through to the post-election period.

Of the 23 election-related security incidents verified by UNAMA and identified in the new report, 10 of them involved threats, harassment and intimidation by anti-government elements against election-related personnel, teachers and potential voters, including allegations of confiscation of identity cards and fines imposed for possession of voter registration stickers.

Elections-related violence should remind everyone that efforts toward peace in Afghanistan cannot be set aside, said Yamamoto. The way forward must not rely on a military solution but rather a democratic process, and I once again urge the Taliban to take up President Ghanis peace offer, participate in the elections, and start direct talks with the government to put an end to the suffering of the Afghan people.Euronews, May 24, 2018

By Courtney Kube

WASHINGTON  The watchdog responsible for monitoring the U.S. government's effort to rebuild Afghanistan says the 15-year, $5 billion effort hasn't worked, according to a report released Thursday.

The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) says the U.S. set unrealistic expectations for stabilizing Afghanistan on a short timeline, that the Obama administration lacked the political will to invest the necessary time and effort to stabilize the country, and that some efforts to bolster the Afghan government actually backfired.

"[Our] overall assessment is that despite some heroic efforts to stabilize insecure and contested areas in Afghanistan between 2002 and 2017, the program mostly failed," said John Sopko, head of SIGAR, at a Thursday morning event announcing the report.

The report examines stabilization efforts from 2002, soon after the U.S. began military operations in the country, to 2017.

In 2003, the U.S. launched a counterinsurgency mission in Afghanistan which would come to include a clear-hold-build strategy. U.S. forces were instructed to clear an area, hold it and then build institutions.

The report says the effort proved ineffective in stabilization because the military focused on the most dangerous districts first, where poor security made it hard to move on to the building phase. U.S. civilian agencies were compelled to conduct their stabilization programs in dangerous areas not ready for rebuilding, and once coalition troops and civilians left those districts the stabilization ended.

Some efforts to introduce increased Afghan government control also produced unintended consequences, according to the report, because they created more opportunities for corruption.

By 2008, the security situation in much of the country had deteriorated and insurgent attacks began to mount.

The report focuses most of its attention on a period beginning in 2009, when the incoming Obama administration attempted to reverse the decline, and when the U.S. spent the bulk of the $4.7 billion that has been dedicated to stabilization since 2002.

But the Obama administration also had a drawdown clock for removing U.S. forces from Afghanistan, and the report says the decision to draw down forces on timelines unrelated to conditions on the ground "had a profound and harmful impact" on later decisions about stabilization.

According to the report, the U.S. military and State Department were continually racing against this clock, which said that in 2011 U.S. "surge" troops would start to leave the country, and in 2014 the Afghan government would take security control of the entire country.

In 2009 and 2010, the Obama administration committed more than 50,000 troops to clear the most dangerous areas of the country, and hundreds of civilians followed to rebuild the war-torn areas. The surge was limited to 18 months.

"In the hope of compensating for a lack of time," the report says, the U.S. threw more money at the problem, increasing spending in the most dangerous areas. The large sums of money spent "in search of quick gains often exacerbated conflicts, enabled corruption, and bolstered support for insurgents."

Without consistent security progress in any district, locals were not convinced the coalition could protect them if they turned against the insurgents, according to the report. And without confidence in the government, they were too afraid to serve in the local government and military.

One solution was to build the Afghan Local Police (ALP) to compensate, but it grew at what the report terms an "unsustainable rate" from 6,500 in 2011 to 24,000 in 2013. Militias that had operated outside the government were absorbed into the ALP without proper vetting.

In general, the report finds that the U.S. government "greatly overestimated its ability to build and reform" Afghan government institutions and did not tailor the programs to Afghanistan.

"Even under the best circumstances, stabilization takes time. Without the patience and political will for a planned and prolonged effort, large-scale stabilization missions are likely to fail."

Despite the harsh assessment, SIGAR writes that future efforts to stabilize other nations should not be abandoned.

"Poor results of this particular stabilization mission make it tempting to conclude that stabilization should not be conducted in the future at all," says the report. Future efforts could be successful, the report concludes, if there are realistic expectations of the level of effort required and what is achievable, better preparation and improved oversight.VOA, May 26, 2018

By Ayaz Gul

The United Nations says the ongoing drought has gripped two-thirds of conflict-hit Afghanistans 34 provinces and has put more than 2 million people at risk of becoming severely food insecure.

Water points and fountains across the country have dried up, and the lack of rain and snow melt has caused rivers to run low or dry up completely, according to a weekly report by the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, OCHA.

The lack of water has prompted farmers to delay planting crops and reduce their field sizes in an effort to minimize losses. U.N. officials said in many cases there was nothing formers could do but watch the seeds dry out.

The humanitarian agency cautioned that the drought already has negatively and irreversibly affected the winter agricultural season of 2017/2018, and it also is expected to have a negative impact on the 2018 spring and summer agricultural season. It added that the last harvest must be considered completely lost.

The agency already has documented the first migration movements of more than 21,000 people since the beginning of May to urban centers due to drought and depleted food stocks of families.

"Some 1.5 million goats and sheep in the northeastern region are struggling to find food, and more than 600 out of nearly 1,000 villages in the province are suffering from the lack of water," OCHA said in a statement.

OCHA said humanitarian partners urgently need $115 million to respond to the needs of the 1.4 million most vulnerable people hit by the drought.

The agency said the intensified conflict across many parts of Afghanistan is exacerbating the effects of the drought and has limited the communities access to markets.

The Taliban insurgency, which controls or contests nearly, half of the Afghan territory, has intensified attacks across the country and overrun new districts.

Humanitarian workers cite security concerns due to active fighting in insurgent-controlled areas for a lack of access to communities in need in these areas.

A U.S. government oversight agency, the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), in its latest quarterly report has noted that more than 11 million Afghans are living in areas that are contested or under control of Taliban-led armed groups.Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale

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Search Real EstateIMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Singapore last week. Photograph: @MEAPhotogallery/Flickr

Describing the Indo-Pacific as a 'natural region', Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India's armed forces, especially the Navy, are building and expanding partnerships in the strategically vital region for peace and security as well as humanitarian assistance.

10 countries of South East Asia connect the two great oceans -- the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean -- in both the geographical and civilisational sense, Modi said.

Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) centrality and unity, therefore, lie at the heart of the new Indo-Pacific, Prime Minister Modi said at the prestigious Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Friday evening.

Expounding his vision of the Indo-Pacific region in a keynote address, Modi said, "India does not see the Indo-Pacific Region as a strategy or as a club of limited members, nor as a grouping that seeks to dominate".

The Indian armed forces, especially the Navy, are building partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region for peace and security, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, he said.

They train, exercise and conduct goodwill missions across the region.

For example, with Singapore, India has the longest un-interrupted naval exercise, which is in its 25th year now, he said, announcing that India will start a new tri-lateral exercise with Singapore soon and India hopes to extend it to other ASEAN countries.

"We work with partners like Vietnam to build mutual capabilities. India conducts Malabar Exercise with the United States and Japan. A number of regional partners join in India's Exercise Milan in the Indian Ocean, and participate in the RIMPAC in the Pacific," he said.

The prime minister noted that India was an active member in the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia.

He said his government's principal mission is to transform India to a 'New India' by 2022, when Independent India will be 75 years young.

Modi said it was possible for the world to rise above divisions and competition to work together and cited the example of the 10-member Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) as an example and inspiration.

"I am convinced that ASEAN can integrate the broader region. In many ways, ASEAN is already leading the process. In doing so, it has laid the foundation of the Indo-Pacific Region," he said.

The prime minister said the Indo-Pacific is a "natural region". It is also home to a vast array of global opportunities and challenges.

By no means India considers itself as directed against any country. A geographical definition, as such, cannot be. India's vision for the Indo-Pacific Region is, therefore, a positive one, Modi said.

Explaining India's stand, the prime minister said, New Delhi stood for a free, open, inclusive region, which embraces us all in a common pursuit of progress and prosperity. It includes all nations in this geography as also others beyond who have a stake in it.

India places Southeast Asia is at its centre and, the ASEAN grouping has been and will be central to its future.

He also underlined the need to have equal access as a right under international law to the use of common spaces on sea and in the air that would require freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.

His statement comes amidst China flexing its military muscles in the South and East China seas.

China claims almost all of South China Sea and also laid claims on the Senkaku islands under the control of Japan in East China Sea and resorted to aggressive patrols in the few years.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the South China Sea.

The United States recently renamed its oldest and largest military command - the Pacific Command - to Indo-Pacific Command, in a largely symbolic move to signal India's importance.

Modi also underlined the need for good connectivity to enhance trade and prosperity. He noted that there are many connectivity initiatives in the region.

"They must empower nations, not place them under impossible debt burden. They must promote trade, not strategic competition. On these principles, we are prepared to work with everyone," he said amidst the growing global concern over the so-called Chinese model of 'debt diplomacy'.

He also made it clear that the region can prosper 'if we do not return to the age of great power rivalries'.

Modi stressed that India's friendships are not alliances of containment.

He assured that India's own engagement in the Indo-Pacific Region - from the shores of Africa to that of the Americas -- will be inclusive.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi said, India will engage with the world in peace, with respect, through dialogue and absolute commitment to international law.India will promote a democratic and rules-based international order, in which all nations, small and large, thrive as equal and sovereign.The Shiv Sena may have lost the just held Palghar Lok Sabha by-poll, but it managed to get more votes in the assembly seats falling under the parliamentary constituency when compared to the 2014 Maharashtra elections.

The Sena got over 60,000 more votes, while despite winning the seat, the Bharatiya Janata Party saw its vote count dropping in the tribal-dominated constituency.

Sena candidate Shrinivas Wanaga lost to BJP nominee Rajendra Gavit by a margin of 29,572 votes in the by-election held on May 28. The result in the tribal-reserved Lok Sabha seat located adjoining Mumbai was declared on May 31.

The Palghar by-poll was necessitated due to the death of sitting BJP MP Chintaman Wanaga.

A comparison of the total votes polled in the six assembly seats of the Palghar Lok Sabha seat in the 2014 state elections to that of the Lok Sabha by-poll held last month shows the Sena's vote share has gone up in the area.

The Sena did not fight the April-May 2014 Lok Sabha poll from Palghar as part of its seat-sharing arrangement with the ally BJP, which won the seat. However, there was no alliance between them for the October 2014 assembly polls.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led party had contested all the six assembly seats falling under the Lok Sabha constituency -- Dahanu (ST), Vikramgad (ST), Palghar (ST), Boisar (ST), Vasai and Nalasopara.

Of these, the Sena won just one assembly seat -- Palghar (ST).

The Sena had polled a total of 1,82,343 votes in the six seats in 2014, while in the May 28 Lok Sabha by-poll, the party candidate secured 2,43,210 votes in these segments, a rise of 60,867 votes compared to the state polls held four years back.

Interestingly, the BJP suffered a loss in the voting percentage though it managed win the Lok Sabha seat.

In 2014, the BJP got 5,33,201 votes in the Palghar Lok Sabha election, while in the recent bypoll, it got 2,72,782 votes, a decline of 2,60,419 votes.

Besides the Sena, the Congress' vote share went up by 39,757 this time as compared to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Sachin Shingda (a Congress leader who fought as an Independent) had polled just 7,957 votes. This time, his father Damodar Shingda contested the by-poll as the Congress nominee and bagged 47,714 votes.

Besides, the Communist Party of India-Marxist polled 71,887 votes in the Lok Sabha bypoll as compared to 76,890 in the 2014 Lok Sabha election, a loss of 5,003 votes.

The vote count of the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi, a local outfit, also dropped by 70,843 votes -- from 2,93,681 in 2014 to 2,22,838 now.

Meanwhile, in the Bhandara-Gondiya Lok Sabha by-poll, the BJP lost the seat to the Nationalist Congress Party despite winning five of the six assembly seats that comprise the constituency, in the 2014 state elections.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha poll, Nana Patole of the BJP had polled 6,06,129 votes and won the seat. He later quit the seat and the party, leading to the by-poll also held on May 28.

However, in the last month's by-election, Hemant Patle of the BJP bagged 3,94,116 votes, bringing down the party's vote count by 2,12,013.

Patle lost to NCP's Madhukar Kukde by a margin of 48,097 votes. Though the NCP won Bhandara-Gondia, its vote count dipped by 14,662.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, NCP's Praful Patel had secured 4,56,875 votes, whereas this time around the party's candidate Kukde got 4,42,213.IMAGE: MP Congress chief Kamal Nath and Senior party leader Jyotiraditya Scindia address a press conference in New Delhi on Sunday. Photograph: Atul Yadav/PTI Photo



The Congress on Sunday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party government in Madhya Pradesh of electoral misconduct by including the names of 60 lakh 'fake voters' in the voters' list and requested the Election Commission to remove all such entries from the electoral rolls of the 230 assembly constituencies in the state.

Soon after a Congress delegation approached it on the issue, the poll panel formed two teams to probe the allegations.

The teams have to submit a report by June 7.

A delegation of the party, led by Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath, met EC officials on Sunday and alleged that the BJP government in the state had included the names of 60 lakh fake voters in the electoral roll.

"We have given proof to the EC that the voters' list of Madhya Pradesh is fraudulent. Sixty lakh fake voters have been enlisted in it. We have conducted our own enquiry in 100 constituencies.

"We have given proof to the EC as regards how one voter has been enlisted in different constituencies with the same name, address and father's name. This cannot be any mistake, it has been done deliberately by the present Madhya Pradesh government," Nath told reporters after meeting the EC officials in New Delhi.

The Congress leaders also requested the EC for a special monitoring mechanism to remove all the 'multiple' and 'demographically similar' entries and urged the poll panel to inform all the national political parties on a weekly basis about the status of identification of such voters at least at the district level.

Demanding strict action against the returning officers for their alleged involvement in coming up with such 'fraudulent' electoral rolls, the Congress leaders also said the EC should not deploy them on poll duty in the future.

"The officers, who produce the second corrected list, should also give an affidavit or a certificate, along with the correct list," Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said.

The leaders also pointed out that a 40-per cent rise in the number of voters in the state, as against a 24-per cent rise in the population, was 'inconceivable and incalculable' and requested the EC to look into the matter.I am Kerry Burgess. This is what I think.Craig Morgan will be awarded the US Army's Outstanding Civilian Service Medal this year for his dedication to performing for troops and their families around the world.

An Army veteran of two decades, Morgan has so far made 15 overseas tours for the troops and has performed for more than 37,000 service members and their families.

The Tennessee native was informed of the news within days of his return home after completing his 10th USO Tour to entertain U.S. military members stationed in Tokyo, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Iraq and Spain.

The United States Army's Outstanding Civilian Service Medal is one of the highest awards that the Defense Department can bestow upon a civilian.

Morgan will receive the honor on June 23 at the Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the Association of the United States Army annual Army Ball in Huntington Beach, California.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Entertainment News(Agencia CMA Latam) - Colombia's Electoral Observation Mission found anomalies in the voting figures of 363 forms in which the results of last Sunday's presidential election were collected. The anomalies correspond to 2.8% of the voting forms since the observers analyzed 13,135 of the 97,663 voting stations installed in the South American country.

According to the mission, the anomalies represent a variation of 12,522 votes - or 0.35% of the vote - of which 796 were apparently eliminated and 11,726 added to the candidates.

"That means that a complete analysis could point out to anomalies in almost 70,000 votes," the mission added.

The investigation was launched after citizen complaints in social networks about the results of the elections in some forms.

The conservative Ivan Duque, who garnered 7.5 million votes, equivalent to 39.14% of the total, and the leftist Gustavo Petro, who obtained 4.8 million votes (25.08%), are expected to face each other in the second round on June 17.

by Agencia CMA Latam

For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.com

Economic News

What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.(Agencia CMA Latam) - The veto of President Mauricio Macri to the bill freezing public services' tariffs in Argentina, approved by the Senate, was published Friday, as expected.

Macri's administration claims that the legislation would be unconstitutional, once public fares are the responsibility of the Executive Power and not of the Legislative.

"[The bill] does not respect the constitutional mandate of the parliament," said Macri's chief of staff, Marcos Pe?a, during a press conference. He said that the president used his "constitutional power" to veto the legislation passed by the Senate.

The bill, which was approved by 37 votes to 30, intended to roll back the tariffs to November 2017 levels and subordinating the increases in electricity, water and gas bills to the evolution of wages for household consumption and the index of wholesale prices of the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INDEC) for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

In his justification to the veto, Macri claimed "that the deterioration of the energy services as a result of the inertia of more than a decade imposed on the State, and each of its powers, a special prudence and rigor when determining tariffs and their transparency."

by Agencia CMA Latam

For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.com

Economic News

What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.Report: Over 100 mercenaries killed, wounded, dozens captured in attacks operations over 24 hours [03/June/2018]

SANAA, June 3 (Saba)  More than 100 of Saudi-paid mercenaries were killed and wounded and dozens were captured when the army and popular committees carried out military offensive operation during the past 24 hours, according to military reports combined by Saba News Agency on Sunday.



Sniper unit of the army and committees shot dead 25 of Saudi-backed militias in Jizan, Taiz, Jawf and Nehm fronts.

In Saudi border province of Asir, a large-scale infiltration of mercenaries was repelled in the west of Majaza, killing and wounding dozens, including Sudanese mercenaries.

In Jizan Saudi province, the army and committees foiled a mercenaries advance toward Azan mount.

Also in Jizan, two military vehicles were destroyed in Ramdha, killing and wounding all who were on board, while two of mercenaries were sniped in Azan mount.



In Najran border province, four military vehicles were destroyed during military operations of the army.



In lahj province, the army and committees waged an offensive operation on mercenaries sites in Karsh front.



In Dhalea province, artillery shelling targeted mercenaries gatherings in Sadrain camp of Murais district.

In Hajjah province, two Abrams tanks were destroyed in Balaba hill of Haradh, killing and wounding all the crews.

In Yemens west coast, 75 of a battalion called "Abu Haroun of the so-called Fifth Brigade Giants mercenaries, including leaders, were killed and injured and 16 were captured when special units of the army and committees, backed with Tihama tribesmen, are carried out offensive on them in Faza area south of Tuhaita district.

Furthermore, the attack resulted in the burning of four military vehicles, the seizure of six other and the clearing of five mercenariessites.



Writing by Sameera Hassn



SabaReport: Quality operations inflict Saudi army, its mercenaries heavy losses [03/June/2018]

SANAA, June 3 (Saba)  The Yemen army and popular committees have carried out quality operations on Saudi army and its mercenaries sites which inflicted them heavy losses in life and gear during the past few hours, a source at Defense Ministry told Saba News Agency on Sunday.

In Jizan border province, the army and committees repelled a large-scale advance of Saudi-soldiers and their mercenaries in the east of Shabaka mount in front of Khobah.

Dozens of Saudi soldiers and their mercenaries were killed and wounded during repelling the advance in Shabaka mount, the source added.

The army and commiittees also repelled an infiltration of mercenaries in front of Dukhan, inflicting the mercenaries heavy losses in life and gear and dozens of them were captured as well as a tank and military vehicle were destroyed, said the source.

In Wazaea front, the army and committees also carried out offensive operations toward mercenaries sites in Sawda hill, nearby sites, Arish village, north and east of Wazaea junction.



The source said that the Wazaea s operations began with combing by missiles, artillery and military tactics which enabled the army and committes to reach to the depth of enemy sites and destroy the fortifications after passing through the defense lines and the destruction of target sites and fire control on the supply lines.



The unique operations in Wazea'a inflicted the mercenaries dozens of dead and wounded, destroying a military vehicle and taking advantage of military vehicles and equipment although the Air Force was backed the invaders and mercenaries by intensive raids and the flight of reconnaissance aircraft but it failed.



In Asir, the army and committees carried out a tactical attack on the Saudi troop positions in front of Alab border crossing and cleared a number of hills and strategic sites as well as the Saudi troop inflicted losses in life, equipment and losing the sites in which it was stationed.





The source also stressed that the coming hours will witness the qualitative military operations which will be enough to change the equation that the Saudi troop sought all its forces to turn it into a new reality.



Writing by Sameera Hassn

Saba SANAA, June 3 (Saba)  The Yemen army and popular committees have carried out quality operations on Saudi army and its mercenaries sites which inflicted them heavy losses in life and gear during the past few hours, a source at Defense Ministry told Saba News Agency on Sunday.In Jizan border province, the army and committees repelled a large-scale advance of Saudi-soldiers and their mercenaries in the east of Shabaka mount in front of Khobah.Dozens of Saudi soldiers and their mercenaries were killed and wounded during repelling the advance in Shabaka mount, the source added.The army and commiittees also repelled an infiltration of mercenaries in front of Dukhan, inflicting the mercenaries heavy losses in life and gear and dozens of them were captured as well as a tank and military vehicle were destroyed, said the source.In Wazaea front, the army and committees also carried out offensive operations toward mercenaries sites in Sawda hill, nearby sites, Arish village, north and east of Wazaea junction.The source said that the Wazaea s operations began with combing by missiles, artillery and military tactics which enabled the army and committes to reach to the depth of enemy sites and destroy the fortifications after passing through the defense lines and the destruction of target sites and fire control on the supply lines.The unique operations in Wazea'a inflicted the mercenaries dozens of dead and wounded, destroying a military vehicle and taking advantage of military vehicles and equipment although the Air Force was backed the invaders and mercenaries by intensive raids and the flight of reconnaissance aircraft but it failed.The source also stressed that the coming hours will witness the qualitative military operations which will be enough to change the equation that the Saudi troop sought all its forces to turn it into a new reality.Writing by Sameera HassnSabaBreaking his silence on accepting an invitation to attend an RSS event at its Nagpur headquarters on June 7, former President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said whatever he has to say, he will say in Nagpur only.

"Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur. I have received several letters, requests and phone calls, but I haven't responded to anyone yet," Mukherjee was quoted as saying by Bengali newspaper Anandabazar Patrika.



The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has invited Mukherjee to be the chief guest at the concluding function of "Tritiya Varsh Varg" or third-year course and address the Swayamsevaks' on June 7.





The RSS invite to Mukherjee sparked off a controversy, as the Congress leaders expressed unhappiness over his acceptance, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Sangh saw nothing wrong in it.



Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also wrote to Mukherjee requesting him not to attend the RSS event.



Earlier, senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram had urged him to take the opportunity to tell the RSS what is wrong with their ideology.



"Now that he has accepted the invitation, there is no point in debating why he accepted it.



"The more important thing to say is, Sir you have accepted invitation, please go there and tell them what is wrong with their ideology," the former Union Minister had said.



Another former Union Minister C.K. Jaffer Sharief in a letter to Mukherjee had urged him to reconsider his decision and avoid attending the event in the interest of secularism.



Expressing surprise over former President Pranab Mukherjee's decision to attend an RSS event, West Bengal Congress chief Adhir Chowdhury had said he was unable to relate the visit with Mukherjee's previous comments against the Sangh Parivar and other Hindutva forces.



"My question is does he (Mukherjee) think his previous comments against RSS were wrong? We remember how Pranab Mukherjee as a senior leader of the Congress had come down heavily on RSS as a communal and a divisive organisation," he had said.



"I am surprised to hear about Pranab Mukherjee's decision to attend RSS's function in Nagpur. Just like any other Congressman, I am astonished too," Chowdhury, who has shared a long association with Mukherjee, said.With near-record low unemployment rates, San Diego County employers have to work extra hard to recruit and retain employees.

Whether its weekly catered lunches, end-of-year bonuses or training and promotions, the staff in big and little companies, nonprofits and public and private institutions are looking for that extra bit of love.

For the sixth straight year, The San Diego Union-Tribune is hosting nominations for top workplaces in the county.

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The survey is conducted by Energage, based in suburban Philadelphia, and is open to companies with 50 or more employees in the county.

Starting today, you have until July 13 to nominate online at sandiegouniontribune.com/nominate or by phone, (619) 780-3999.

The general public may nominate even if they do not work at the company, institution or agency.

Last year 914 organizations were nominated, 77 agreed to participate and 51 were recognized. Of the 12,090 employees surveyed, 7,782 returned questionnaires.

Sequoia Consulting Group, a biotech firm with nearly 100 employees in Solana Beach, was recognized last year as one of the top small-business workplaces. Its engineers are outplaced at life-science companies in San Diego and the San Francisco Bay area to augment clients permanent workforces.

Everybody was very happy and excited that we did get selected, said spokesman CJ Hinshaw.

Unlike other outplacement companies, Sequoia hires the staff on a full-time basis and only about five work at the main office.

Our office is located about two blocks from the beach in a nice location, Hinshaw. Its very relaxing.

RELATED: LAST YEARS TOP WORKPLACE WINNERS

To keep the outplaced staff connected, the company hosts holiday and summer social events and regularly organizes lunches at client sites to maintain communication.

We try to keep in touch, he said. We want everybody to feel part of the team and not feel like theyre on their own.

Whats one piece of advice for making a workplace tops?

I think its how you treat your employees and making them the most important aspect of your company, Hinshaw said. If employees are happy, theyll do a good job for you.

This year Energage expects to conduct about 50 workplace surveys in cooperation with media companies from coast to coast, from the publishers as large as the Washington Post to small regional papers like the Knoxville News-Sentinel in Tennessee. Magazine and radio and television stations also participate.

CEO Doug Claffey, previously a leader of Best Companies in Britain, General Electric and McKinsey & Co., founded Energage in 2006 to help companies get the full potential out of the employees.

Spokesman Bob Helbig said clients are encouraged to replace traditional performance surveys with catalytic consulting techniques that depend on year-round communication between managers and their staffs to set goals and help overcome hiccups along the way.

We feel strongly that for organizations to achieve the best, there needs to be open and clear communication, from the leadership to the masses, he said. Its got to be both ways and having an anonymous form of communication gives people some comfort that they can speak openly.

At the Manchester Grand Hyatt, which ranked among the top big workplaces last year, the hotels personnel chief (officially called the colleague experience director), Jeff Berger, said one way to show managers care is to encourage staffers eager for advancement to get training and apply to other positions at other Hyatt properties.

It makes us quite proud of the job were doing in setting them up for success and getting ready for the next opportunity, Berger said.

This past year, many companies have taken steps to guard against sexual harassment in light of the many reports of issues in public and private companies and institutions.

Everybodys so aware of it, Berger said, and if somebody brings something to our attention, its investigated immediately and we put a stop to it and do what we feel we need to do.

To empower employees, Berger said, the company has dispensed with name tags and trained the staff to be able to answer guests questions regardless of their official position. Uniforms have also been largely dispensed with, not only to make the staff feel comfortable in their own clothes but also to make visitors feel more welcomed and at ease.

We want our colleagues to engage on a personal level with customers, he said. The first thing they do is put their hand out, tell them their name and get to them know a little better.The result of these and other steps has been a rise in staff morale and success in recruitment. The top workplace recognition helps during the pitch.

We think it has brought us a much higher caliber of candidate, he said.

Energages survey does not spotlight bad workplaces, partly because employers who think they might be criticized by their workers choose not to participate.

But even if a company doesnt get recognized because their scores are low, Energage offers feedback and sells consulting services on how they can improve.

Our goal is to make the world a better place to work together, Helbig said. Thats our focus. The companies that dont perform well could use the feedback more than anyone.

Julie Riddle, marketing director at the Bill Howe Family of Companies, a top-ranked midsized firm in the plumbing, heating and air conditioning business, said when last years results were announced at a monthly breakfast, the plumbers broke into a rendition of the company jingle, Bill Howe Knows How.

From field technicians to office employees, you need something and ask for it, you get it, she said.

Crews get monthly tool allowances and office staff can ask for standing desks and other ergonomically appropriate aids.

Successful workplaces tend to retain employees longer  and Bill Howe employees receive $5,000 bonuses for referring new employees who receive the same amount after a year on the job. Its not uncommon to have workers remain for more than 15 or 20 years.

A couple have gone off and come back, Riddle said.

To nominate

Online: sandiegouniontribune.com/nominate

Phone: (619) 780-3999

Deadline: July 13

How does the survey work?

 Energage contacts the nominated companies, firms and institutions. Those that that agree to participate provide email lists to Energage of their employees.

Energage sends confidential, three-page surveys that employees have until July 13 to return.

 Participants rate their company from strongly disagree to strongly agree on 25 statements and can add optional comments in three areas.

 For those without emails, paper surveys are distributed at a nominal cost to the company and are returned in postage-paid envelopes. There is no other cost for participation.

 Once 35 percent of employees respond, Energage compiles the findings for each nominated company and the results are published in a special section of the Union-Tribune.

For more information: sandiegouniontribune.com/nominate

Business

Roger Showley is a freelance writer in San Diego. (619) 787-5714, rmshowley@yahoo.com.There are a couple times of year when colleagues start casually stopping by my office to chat about books. It would happen more often if I werent on a different floor than many of them  and also, its not just casual talk. Come June, theyre looking for something good and fun to read when they finally get to take a break  a vacation, a trip with the family, head to the beach or pool or campground or even the just backyard. Summer is when many of us get a chance to settle in with a book, something that might provide a bit of escape. Here are 16 books to look forward to  and a few that are already out, if youre ready to get started on your summer reading.

Fiction

(Knopf; Hogarth; Atria )

Novelist Anne Tyler  best known for The Accidental Tourist  has been publishing moving, bestselling novels for 40 years, and shes back with Clock Dance (Knopf, July), an episodic story of Willa Drake, a woman whose life seems straightforward enough until, in her 60s, she agrees to take care of a strangers daughter and dog and gets caught up in their world.

For a literary romance, try The Verdun Affair by Nick Dybeck (Counterpoint, June), a historical fiction that begins in 1950 in Los Angeles, where a Hollywood screenwriter runs into someone from his past. Their story stretches back to Europe in the years following the First World War, and the novel unravels a love triangle and its players secrets.

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On the lighter side, Georgia Clarks novel The Bucket List (Atria, August) is a witty, sexy take on a well-worn theme. After a buttoned-up 25-year-old woman learns she has the BCRA1 gene mutation and should have a double mastectomy to reduce her risk of breast cancer, she comes up with a to-do list of breast adventures, which she sets out to complete. Its got one of the most head-turning covers of the summer.

But giving Clarks cover a run for its money is The Pisces by Melissa Broder (Hogarth, out now). This acclaimed novel is a engrossing tale of a woman wrestling with her demons  an unfinished PhD, therapy for addiction  who comes to Venice, Calif., and falls in love with a merman. As we saw in The Shape of Water, it happens.

(Little, Brown; Ecco; Simon & Schuster )

Mystery-thriller

Few writers get at the dark corners of the female psyche like Megan Abbott. In her new psychological thriller, Give Me Your Hand (Little, Brown, July), two female scientists, who were friends back in high school, compete for the same position working for their mentor in groundbreaking research and become deep rivals.

In Bearskin (Ecco, June), the debut novel from James A. McLaughlin, a not-at-all innocent man on the run from a Mexican drug cartel tries to start over with an assumed name and a job at a remote Virginia nature preserve. But when a bear is killed on the grounds, it opens the door to trouble and violence.Los Angeles writer Jessica Knoll (Luckiest Girl Alive) uses reality TV as the setting for her new thriller, The Favorite Sister (Simon & Schuster, out now). Entrepreneur competitors  all women, two who are sisters  are set up to have camera-ready catfights and the rest. But one ends up dead.

(Simon & Schuster; Dutton )

Entertainment

Reality TV is the setting as well for the nonfiction book Bachelor Nation (Dutton, out now) by my Times colleague Amy Kaufman. The long-running series that starts with strangers and ends with a happy couple (if all goes as planned) is back for a new season, and Kaufmans book is a delicious look behind the scenes.

The biggest book Im suggesting you bring to the beach is Bruce Lee: A Life by Matthew Polly (Simon & Schuster, June). Sure, its 656 pages, but its the first authoritative biography of the martial arts teacher and movie star, who died mysteriously at 32 but whose films, like Enter the Dragon, still thrill decades later.

Poetry

The slimmest book on this list is American Sonnets for My Past and Future Assassin by Terrance Hayes (Penguin, June), but that doesnt mean its not powerful. All of these poems were written by the inventive National Book Award-winning poet and MacArthur fellow during the first 200 days of Donald Trumps presidency.

(Penguin; Atria; Counterpoint )

Memoir-essay

Historian Nell Painter was 64 when she stepped down from her job at Princeton to attend the Rhode Island School of Design. She chronicles that experience in her memoir Old in Art School (Counterpoint, June), bringing her fierce intelligence to questions not just of age but also race and what it means to be an artist.

Young writer Michael Arceneauxs coming-of-age essay collection, I Cant Date Jesus: Love, Sex, Family, Race and Other Reasons Ive Put My Faith in Beyonce (Atria, July), touches on growing up in Texas, coming out to his mother and embracing his identity.

Nonfiction

(Avery; Knopf; Picador )

As a journalist, KJ DellAntonia has wide view of parenthood  and an up-close one with four kids of her own. In How to Be a Happier Parent: Raising a Family, Having a Life, and Loving (Almost) Every Minute (Avery, August) she shares her knowledge in a breezy style and bite-size format thats easy to read between toddler meltdowns.

An ambitious Silicon Valley company, a groundbreaking product, billions invested and a founder who was hailed as brilliant: Its the story of our modern technological age, but for Theranos, it was built on an empty promise. In Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup, (Knopf, out now) journalist John Carreyrou gets the inside scoop on the companys rise and fall.

Nothing lasts forever: In 1930s Shanghai, the no-holds-barred gangster scene was run by an American ex-Navyman and a Jewish man whod fled Vienna. Their milieu  and its end  comes alive in City of Devils: The Two Men Who Ruled the Underworld of Old Shanghai (Picador, July) by Paul French, an Edgar award-winning writer.

Michael Pollan is best known for his groundbreaking writing about food and the environment. But in How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression and Transcendence (Penguin Press, out now), he seriously researched  and explored  mind-altering substances such as LSD and psilocybin now being used in medicine, turning gonzo journalism on its head.

carolyn.kellogg@latimes.com

@paperhausNear the end of Florian Zellers play The Father, the elderly protagonist Andre cries out Im losing all my leaves, a poetic metaphor for his failing battle with dementia.

The audacious, 90-minute tragic farce doesnt just show Andres struggle, it puts the audience inside the 80-year-old Parisians head. Time slips, history shifts, people change bodies and all trappings of the past gradually fade into the thickening fog of his memory. Whats real and whats not is never quite clear.

The Father  which won the 2015 Olivier Award for best play in London and a Tony nomination on Broadway in 2016  made its West Coast premiere Saturday at North Coast Repertory Theatre.

Thats quite a coup for the Solana Beach theater. Artistic director David Ellenstein, who also directs the play, has mounted a luxuriously cast and beautifully designed staging worthy of the premiere.

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The play, translated from its original French by Christopher Hampton, is fascinating but it isnt perfect. Some lines sound stiff and unnatural, the story and production lack a clear climax and toward the end, its short scenes begin to feel repetitive.

The play opens in present-day Paris where Andre is having a spirited argument with his adult daughter, Anne, over his dismissal of his third nurse.

The widowed engineer argues that hes lived 30 years in his elegant flat and needs no assistance, even though he keeps losing track of his watch and the time that it keeps.

Then the play seems to abruptly shift ahead 10 years, but Anne is a different person, and whos the strange man at the opposite end of the couch? Is Andre still in Paris? Why doesnt his favorite daughter, Elise, ever visit? Why is he still in his pajamas? And does everyone mean Andre harm or is that just his perception? I wont spoil the plays many mind-bending twists and turns.

James Sutorius, an Old Globe veteran last seen locally in La Jolla Playhouses Glengarry Glen Ross in 2012, is superb as Andre. His mercurial performance whirls fluidly between bouts of melancholy, calm, charm, fury, paranoia and fear.

As Anne, Robyn Cohen finds the perfect, sympathetic balance as her fathers loving but heartbroken and frustrated caretaker. Jacque Wilke is endearing in the underwritten role of caregiver Laura. And Matthew Salazar-Thompson is menacing as Annes husband, Pierre.

Richard Baird and Shana Wride play the mysterious characters Man and Woman, who keep changing identities, at least in in Andres mind. Baird especially plays with the absurdist qualities of his shape-shifting character.

The physical production is exceptional. Marty Burnetts ever-transforming set, painted a rich Parisian blue, is ingenious in its design. Elisa Benzonis subtle costuming  matching shirts, stripes, similar colors  hints at the connections between characters, time and place. Matt Novotny designed lighting and Melanie Chen Cole designed sound.

The Father is a poignant play that sadly reflects the growing reality faced by our aging population. For families and caregivers whove witnessed dementia firsthand, this play will feel both illuminating and painfully familiar.

The Father

When: 7 p.m. Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays. Through June 24.

Where: North Coast Rep, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach.

Tickets: $42-$53 (discounts available).

Phone: (858) 481-1055

Online: northcoastrep.org.

pam.kragen@sduniontribune.comAn American delegation that gathered more than 150 federal officials and lawmakers for the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore this week sought to project an image of strength and unity amid growing tensions over Chinese territorial demands and North Koreas nuclear program.

Theyve repeatedly been peppered by friends and foes alike on range of issues, with the harshest criticism reserved for American president Donald Trumps unilateral trade tariffs designed to curb cheap steel and aluminum exports from China.

Canada imports more steel from America than it exports to the U.S. but wasnt spared the Trump tariffs. Trumps designation of Ottawa  one of Americas staunchest allies and its largest trading partner  as a national security threat rankled officials here.

Ottawa announced it will take Trumps tariffs to the World Trade Organization for adjudication and slapped retributive levies on $12.8 billion in U.S. products, everything from bourbon and beer to motorboats and maple syrup.

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Although warmly greeting Defense secretary James Mattis in Singapore, delegations from France, Germany and India groused about similar levies on their metals and vowed to retaliate on a wide range of agricultural products.

The larger question, diplomats, spies and military members in Singapore say, is if Trump treats his foreign friends like this, how good is Americas word to its allies and partners in Asia, where rising China and Russia and a belligerent North Korea threaten U.S. power and regional stability?

While Mattis reemphasizes security alliances with nations rimming the Pacific and Indian Oceans and demands that Beijing abide by international norms and law to resolve territorial claims in the South China Sea, why is the White House threatening to shred economic pacts and desert trade organizations?

Mattis, a retired four-star Marine general, tried to smooth ruffled feathers when he conceded to delegates on Saturday that the administration often practices unusual ways, urging patience because Americas larger economic and security interests and partnerships wont become casualties to temporary trade spats.

Echoing Mattis, Manisha Singh, the secretary running the Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs at the U.S. State Department, told delegates late Saturday that Trumps slogan American First has never meant America alone.

She pointed to the 4,200 American companies doing business in Singapore and hinted that the administration was revisiting the adoption of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a regional trade deal abandoned by Trump in favor off bilateral negotiations.

Singh said that Trump just wants America to be an effective force in the world.

Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Senior Col. Zhou Bo lashed into what he saw as American hypocrisy. Beijing, he said, accounted for nearly a third of the globes economic growth and painted the United States as an outsider and persistent factor of instability in Asia.

He immediately pledged Chinese help in ridding the region of piracy, an economic and security issue to trade partners here.

Chinas actions are increasingly alienating many countries because they threaten the ability of many countries to determine their own future, countered Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, chairman of the powerful House Armed Services Committee, who led a delegation of three other representatives to the Singapore summit.

They were joined at a packed international news conference by Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, a fiscal conservative who sits on the House Appropriations Committee and specializes in border security and defense budget issues.

Thornberry told The San Diego Union-Tribune that he agreed with Mattis that long-time alliances were more important than any one decision on any one particular day.

I would personally disagree with some of the decisions the president has made on trade but I think the president is right to shine the light on Chinas predatory trading practices which have done damage to the international trading system, he added.

Theres no question that president Trump is unconventional in his negotiating tactics, Thornberry said. He does things differently but hes also been a negotiator for his whole life so well see where this goes.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimates that Trumps levies and the threat of an escalating trade war with both China and friendly nations could cost 2.6 million American jobs.

Pointing to protectionist trade policies enacted in 1930 that exacerbated the Great Depression, Rep. Cueller warned that Trumps policies could imperil the global economy.

He also raised concerns about the message Trump sent with his actions on the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

The pact was designed to strengthen economic ties with Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam, nations crucial to securing American power in region.

If were going to put on any penalties, they should go where the problem is, not to friends like Canada or Mexico, Cueller said.

U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colorado, agreed that it might be the right moment to bring back TPP, hinting that it might be made possible by the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018.

A member of the Foreign Relations Committee, Gardner was joined last week in Japan, Taiwan and Singapore by Senate Armed Services members Dan Sullivan of Alaska and Georgias David Perdue to promote the bipartisan legislation thats designed to cement another four decades of persistent American presence in the Indo-Pacific region.

It authorizes up to $1.5 billion annually over the next five years to boost multilateral military, diplomatic and economic agreements with friendly nations; disarm nuclear North Korea; enforce international freedom of navigation through the sea lanes and airways of Asia; and shore up shaky cyber-security while combating human trafficking and the theft of intellectual property.

This is the first president, probably in history, who came into office with trade promotion authority already at the White House, Sen. Sullivan said. A lot of presidents had to fight for that and its hard to get through the Congress. He got that. And we all supported that in 2015 and president (Barack) Obama got it for the last two years of his administration.

Perdue emerged as the lawmaker with the strongest public support for Trumps economic policies.

At some point, and this is what president Trump is trying to say, a realignment isnt necessarily mandatory for a rebalancing, Perdue said. Whats hes asking for is more of a level playing field.

The summit wrapped up Sunday.

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 wind-driven brush fire in Laguna Beach scorched 120 acres Saturday and threatened hundreds of nearby homes, but a mandatory evacuation order for more than 2,100 homes was eventually lifted.

The fire was originally reported to have burned more than 250 acres, but that was later downgraded, officials reported late Saturday. An aerial survey of the burn area was able to give firefighters a more accurate account of the acreage.

Fire crews also got a break late in the day as erratic winds appeared to die down.

Firefighters making good progress while wind has diminished somewhat, read a tweet from the fire authoritys public information office.

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A mandatory evacuation order for 1,500 residents of Top of the World, a Laguna Beach neighborhood, remained in effect Saturday night, fire officials said. But an evacuation order for 2,100 homes in Aliso Viejo was lifted at 9 p.m..

The biggest battle has been the thick brush that hasnt burned in over 100 years, and the erratic winds, said Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Tony Bommarito. Six air tankers and four helicopters had been enlisted to fight the blaze, he said.

He said 400 firefighters were on scene, assembled from many agencies around the region. The fire was 0% contained Saturday night.

There will be firefighters out there all night and all day tomorrow, Bommarito said.

The fire broke out shortly after 1:30 p.m. below the Top of the World scenic lookout point and behind Soka University of America, according to the Orange County Fire Authority.

The flames chewed through brushed left bone dry by years of drought conditions across Southern California. The region saw a devastating fire season last year, with homes lost from San Diego and Bel-Air to Sylmar and Montecito. The Thomas fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties made history as the largest on record in California.

Experts have warned that the continued dry conditions make more big fires likely, and the Laguna blaze is shaping up to be one of the biggest in months.

The fire was burning in the hills above Laguna Beach and Aliso Viejo. It was consuming open space but moving toward hillside communities and suburban subdivisions.

Costa Mesa High Schools prom at Soka University was postponed a week due to the fire, school officials said.

(Los Angeles Times )

An evacuation center was set up at the Susi Q Center, 380 3rd St. in Laguna Beach. A Red Cross shelter was also opened at Aliso Niguel High School, 28000 Wolverine Way in Aliso Viejo.

There were no reports of damaged structures, and only one report of a minor injury to a firefighters leg.

cindy.chang@latimes.com

For more news on the Los Angeles Police Department, follow me on Twitter: @cindychangLA

christopher.goffard@latimes.com

Twitter: @LATchrisgoffard

UPDATES:

9:30 p.m.: This article has been updated with new information regarding mandatory evacuations.

8:40 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from the Orange County Fire Authority.

7:35 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from the Orange County Fire Authority.

6:50 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from the Orange County Fire Authority.

5:45 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from the Orange County Fire Authority.

4:45 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from the Orange County Fire Authority.

This article was originally posted at 4:20 p.m.The investigation is continuing into the death of two veteran rock climbers who were killed Saturday when they fell from the sheer granite face of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, officials said.

The two climbers were identified as Tim Klein, 42, of Palmdale, and Jason Wells, 46, of Boulder, Colo., according to the park service.

They fell about 8:15 a.m. while climbing the Freeblast route on El Capitan, which rises 3,000 feet and is a favorite challenge for climbers.

Climbing.com reported that Wells and Klein, longtime friends and climbers, were roped together when they fell about 1,000 feet.

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The two men began climbing together during their college years in San Diego, Wayne Willoughby, a friend who has climbed El Capitan with Klein before, told the online magazine.

Tim told me that Jason was the strongest and best partner he every climbed with, he said, noting that the two men had climbed El Capitan many times over the years.

Freeblast is a climbing route on the first stretch of near-vertical rock above the tree line on El Capitan.

Yosemites majestic rock faces have proven both alluring and deadly for climbers.

On May 21, a man died on Half Dome after he slipped and fell during a thunderstorm in the last 400 feet of the climb, where hikers grasp cables to scale the summit.

Since the cables were installed nearly a century ago, eight people have died on that stretch, which is often congested with hikers in the warm months, according to the San Jose Mercury News.

In September 2017, a climber was killed on El Capitan and another injured when a rock crashed down on a popular climbing route along the East Buttress of the monolith.

Some of the best rock climbers in the world have risked their lives at Yosemite to achieve record-breaking feats. On May 30, Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell broke the speed record for an ascent of El Capitans Nose route, scaling the rocks forbidding prow in 2 hours, 10 minutes and 15 seconds.

Hans Florine, Honnolds partner in a previous record-setting climb in 2012, watched from a wheelchair after being injured in a May 4 fall from the Nose. In June 2017, Honnold became the first person to climb El Capitan without ropes.A man riding a bicycle was shot and killed after an assailant drove up alongside him and opened fire in South L.A. early Sunday morning, police said.

The victim, who was not immediately identified, was riding his bicycle in the 200 block of East 95th Street shortly after midnight when he was shot, according to Officer Norma Eisenman, a Los Angeles Police Department spokeswoman.

The suspect or suspects drove up alongside the bicyclist and fired several rounds from inside the vehicle, she said. The victim, who was in his late 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene.

It was not immediately clear whether the victim was targeted or the shooting was gang-related, Eisenman said. Police did not describe the vehicle.

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james.queally@latimes.com

Follow @JamesQueallyLAT for crime and police news in California.November will be the real test of how strong the Democratic blue wave is, but we may get an early sign from Tuesdays primary election. And San Diego could be a key indicator.

California is central to the Democrats hope to flip the 23 Republican districts nationwide needed to gain the majority in the House of Representatives

The free-for-all in 49th Congressional District straddling San Diego and Orange counties, represented by retiring Republican Darrell Issa, is in the middle of it all. Hillary Clinton won the 2016 popular vote in the 49th and six other California Republican districts, and the Democratic Party is making a push in all of them.

While not one of the prime Democratic targets, the East County 50th District held by embattled Republican Rep. Duncan Hunter also is being watched for how well, or poorly, Democrats do.

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Democrats came surging into the year with high expectations fueled by dissatisfaction with, in some cases hatred of, President Donald Trump. That momentum has been tempered by a shifting political landscape and the worry that there are simply too many Democrats on the ballot in some races, potentially splitting the vote to the benefit of Republicans.

Theres the potential  considerable in some districts, less so in others  that Democratic candidates could get shut out of November because of the states primary system, where the top two vote-getters advance regardless of party affiliation.

In the 49th District, Republican organizations have put on a push for Board of Equalization member Diane Harkey, who won GOP backing in San Diego and Orange counties. At least one Republican-leaning group is promoting both her and Assemblyman Rocky Chavez. A new SurveyUSA poll shows Harkey has vaulted from the middle to the top of the pack while Chavez has lost ground.

He was slightly behind or tied with four strong Democrats, so seemingly any of the five could take second. But lets be clear: Any poll in a race as convoluted as this should be viewed with caution, and certainly no poll a week out or more out should be considered a predictor of the Tuesdays outcome.

Things are way too volatile, as Harkeys leap suggests. She tripled her support from a poll released April 12. Chavez, who led in that poll, saw his lead cut in half in the recent survey.

A report of an active shooter in downtown San Diego that brought the Rock n Roll Marathon to a standstill for more than 30 minutes ended when police arrested a woman who had been armed with an airsoft gun.

Also, the new poll, launched a week before the election, said 13 percent of those surveyed were still undecided. Add to that the fact that there are 16 candidates on the ballot, though only four Democrats and two Republicans (charitably four) are considered viable. Then add to that the difficulty in predicting primary election turnout in a single district.

Meanwhile, a Democratic poll shows Democratic attorney Mike Levin with a narrow lead over Harkey, followed by Democrat Doug Applegate, who almost knocked off Issa in 2016. Hes followed by Democrat Sara Jacobs and Chavez, who were tied, then Democrat Paul Kerr and Republicans Kristin Gaspar and Brian Mayott, who were essentially tied.

The bottom line? Be ready for anything Tuesday.

The Democratic Party sought to alter the equation by running unusual attack ads, aimed at Republicans, pointing out that Chavez has voted with Democrats on budget and spending issues. The strategy seems two-fold: to help a Democrat advance and, if theres to be a Republican in November, try to make it Harkey, whos more conservative than Chavez and potentially less attractive to moderate voters.

Some Democratic Party activists and candidates have either complained about the inability of leaders to thin the field in some of these competitive districts or criticized them for getting behind the wrong candidates. In addition to the Issa seat, theres a similar dynamic at play in the open 39th District at the northeastern edge of Orange County, where Republican incumbent Ed Royce is stepping down.

In both cases, Democrats coming into the year were looking at running against a weak incumbent in November. Now theyre fighting among themselves with no certainty that one of them will advance to take on a Republican, who wont have the Trump baggage of Issa and Royce.

Theres also great uncertainty in Orange Countys 48th district held by vulnerable Republican Dana Rohrabacher. Hes facing a challenge former Orange County GOP Chairman Scott Baugh, a handful of Democrats and several lesser-known Republicans. The Democratic Party has run ads against Baugh in hopes of keep the GOP from winning the top two spots.

In the overwhelmingly Republican 50th District, a SurveyUSA poll released May 22 shows Hunter in the drivers seat with 43 percent support despite a federal criminal investigation into whether he misused campaign funds. Democrat Ammar Campa-Najjar came in second with 10 points but El Cajon Mayor Bill Wells, a Republican, was only 4 points behind him. That in theory would put Wells in striking distance of the second spot, though he has a fraction of the resources of Campa-Najjar or Democrat Josh Butner.

It would be a huge setback for Democrats if they are shut out of the November ballot in one or more of the contested districts. Even if they arent, those still are traditionally Republican areas and, despite Clintons performance two years ago, winning them in the fall wont be easy for Democrats.

What exactly the Democratic Party should have or could have done is during the primary campaign is unclear. In the 49th and some other districts, no Democrat was able to win the state partys endorsement, which required backing from 60 percent of delegates at the partys convention in San Diego in February. Another factor is some of the targeted districts have wealthy candidates, such as Jacobs and Kerr, willing to spend their own money on the campaign.

In some of these races you dont have any leverage, Steve Smith, communications director for the California Labor Federation, told The Washington Post. These are self-funded candidates. If they want to run, their going to run whether the (Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee) says otherwise or not.

With all of this angst, its worth a reminder that the Democrats are in an enviable political position.They have a chance to win districts that during normal times they wouldnt even try to compete in. They have the potential to take over the House in the November election.

Tuesday could indicate whether that blue wave continues to surge or starts dissipating.

Tweet of the Week

Liam Dillon, (@dillonliam), San Diegan emeritus, Sacramento reporter for the Los Angeles Times.

Meanwhile, the state Senate just approved The Sutter Brown Act which would allow EMTs to give dogs and cats mouth-to-snout resuscitation among other things. Named after @JerryBrownGovs late dog.For weeks, political ads have dominated the local airwaves, and oversized campaign fliers belittling and praising rival candidates have crowded our mailboxes. But on Saturday it all came down to this: knocking on doors and making phone calls  around the clock.

In the final push before Tuesdays election, campaign volunteers in a slew of races were blanketing communities throughout San Diego County from early morning to early evening as they sought to persuade and cajole residents  by phone and on their front porches  to get out and vote.

And, by the way, to also cast a vote for their chosen candidates.

Nowhere was that more in evidence than in the high-profile race for San Diego County district attorney, pitting appointed District Attorney Summer Stephan against Deputy Public Defender Genevieve Jones-Wright. It is one of the few races in the county that will be decided on Tuesday, instead of the November general election.

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Early Saturday morning, Stephan made a brief appearance at a San Diego Republican party get-out-the-vote event headlined by GOP businessman John Cox of Rancho Santa Fe, who is angling for a runoff spot in the hotly contested race for governor of California.

Republican candidate for California governor John Cox addresses supporters at a get out the vote kickoff event hosted by the Republican Party of San Diego County in Rancho Bernardo. (Howard Lipin/U-T )

Im not doing this for me, he told supporters. Im doing this for all of you.

The rally was one of five such gatherings the local party scheduled Saturday to promote Republican-endorsed candidates.

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan, right, and candidate for DA, gives the thumbs up during a Saturday morning visit outside the Republican Party of San Diego County headquarters where a short rally for candidates was held. (Howard Lipin/U-T )

That same morning, 30 miles away at Friendship Park in Chula Vista, Jones-Wright was marshaling volunteers for the start of a door-to-door super walk there and in more than 20 other locations across the county. About 200 volunteers were expected to participate.

Its the most important part of campaigning, said Mary Latibashvili, campaign manager for Jones-Wright. Research shows the No. 1 reason someone votes is because someone asks them to. You can have all the ads possible, but knocking on a door and having that face-to-face conversation, thats what matters.

Genevieve Jones-Wright, left, candidate for San Diego County district attorney, talks with Marco Briones, right, at The Future is Female Candidate Forum held Saturday at Writerz Blok. (Howard Lipin/U-T )

Thats true, said Stephan, who noted her campaigns on-the-ground effort started months ago with an army of about 300 volunteers reaching out to voters of all political stripes across the county.

We built up all this momentum, and now were looking at the 30 percent who are undecided, which is natural for a district attorneys race, she said. What is really neat for me for this weekend is that the people who are going to be making personal contact are people who know me personally, its not about a party going out knocking on doors.

Although thats exactly what San Diego County Republican Party Chairman Tony Krvaric was urging about 30 volunteers to do Saturday. Throughout the day, volunteers, armed with hundreds of door-hangers, would be pushing the partys slate of candidates for local, state and federal races, from San Diego City Council and county Board of Supervisors seats to sheriff, assessor and congressional and state Assembly and Senate seats.

There are lots of Republicans with ballots still on their kitchen tables, and Tuesday will come and go, so its our job to remind the voters, Krvaric said. That cuts through the clutter like nothing else.

Likewise, Democratic party workers and volunteers for individual campaigns were setting up phone banks and organizing multiple precinct walks in key locations throughout San Diego.

Candidates and their teams were busy promoting weekend events on social media, from phone banking and a BBQ and sign-waving at San Diego intersections to a state treasurer candidate wrapping up a 625-mile series of runs from Sacramento to the U.S.-Mexico border.

Antonio Villaraigosa rallied local carpenters union members and others Saturday evening at Albert Einstein Academy Middle School in San Diego. (Pauline Repard/San Diego Union-Tribune )

While Cox used the Saturday morning Republican party rally in Rancho Bernardo to address local supporters, rival candidate Antonio Villaraigosa arrived in San Diego Saturday evening for a whirlwind visit that started with a rally at the Albert Einstein Academy Charter Middle School and ending with Street Food Cinema in North Park.

He has made about two dozen campaign swings through San Diego  including to the border  because the region is one of three, with the Inland Empire and the Central Valley, where many other gubernatorial candidates dont go, he said.

Recent polls suggest that Villaraigosa, former Los Angeles mayor, will end up in third place Tuesday behind Cox and Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, the Democratic frontrunner.

But mostly Saturday, it was about walking  and more walking.

Patrick Gorham, a field organizer for Genevieve Jones-Wright, candidate for San Diego County district attorney, walks house-to-house knocking on doors along 28th Street across from the Balboa Park Golf Course Saturday afternoon. (Howard Lipin/U-T )

Elizabeth Metzler, a volunteer for Jones-Wrights campaign, was devoting several hours Saturday morning and afternoon knocking on doors in North Park to persuade voters to support her candidate.

On a sunny, cloudless afternoon, Metzler was finding few people home to chat with but no matter, she dutifully left Jones-Wright brochures in English and Spanish on the doorsteps of the craftsman and Spanish-style houses.

At one home, a woman came outside while her two dogs barked loudly to greet Metzler, who introduced herself as a volunteer campaign worker.

After 20 years of Republican control, we have a chance to elect a Democratic candidate, Genevieve Jones-Wright, Metzler told the woman.

Whos she running against? the homeowner asked.

Stephan, she was told. A Republican.

Can we count on you? Metzler asked.

Yes, said the woman, who planned to go in person to the polls on Tuesday.

Leonard Trinh, a volunteer working on behalf of Stephans campaign, spent about four hours Saturday at a private home with about 15 others phoning registered voters. While he reached a number of voicemail recordings, he also was able to talk to a number of people who had not yet voted.

For the most part, people seem grateful that we are helping them make an important decision, said Trinh, who works in the District Attorneys Office. There are some people we reach who think we might be calling asking for money, and some will say I already voted for Summer or the opposition, but thats to be expected three days before the election.

At the Registrar of Voters office in Kearny Mesa, a light but steady stream of people cast early ballots Saturday. The office was well-staffed for crowds, preventing lines, said county Registrar of Voters Michael Vu.

The office, at 5600 Overland Ave., will be open again from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday for early voting.

Staff writers Kristina Davis and Pauline Repard contributed to this report.

Business

lori.weisberg@sduniontribune.com

(619) 293-2251

Twitter: @loriweisbergSan Diego Gas & Electric has recently suffered several setbacks in its bid to provide the city of San Diego with 100 percent renewable energy  a proposal competing with a government-run alternative known as community choice aggregation.

Mayor Kevin Faulconer has pledged to have the city adopt either community choice or SDG&Es blueprint to help fulfill the citys goal of using all green power by 2035.

Under community choice, a utility continues to operate the poles and wires needed to deliver energy, but elected officials control the buying and selling of power for their jurisdiction. Customers can opt out of the program to receive the utilitys rates.

To compete with the government-run alternative, SDG&E has proposed to create a tariff program for the city that would cover the cost of delivering increasingly more renewable energy over time.

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With the City Council expected to vote on a path forward by the end of the year, its Sustainable Energy Advisory Board sent a letter this month to elected officials saying the utilitys pitch lacks sufficient detail.

The correspondence follows up on an independent third-party review earlier this year that found the utilitys plan raises more questions than it answers and gives little or no information about the approach, costs or risks associated 

SDG&E officials defended the utilitys offering as giving city leaders autonomy to dictate how they would roll out such a renewable-energy program.

The framework we laid out in our proposal is intentionally designed to maximize the citys flexibility in procurement, so it would have more local control to choose an energy portfolio based on a host of factors, such as safety, reliability, local economic impact, and affordability, utility spokeswoman Helen Gao said in an email.

Last summer, an independent review of community choice found the program would deliver more green energy to San Diegans while costing residents and businesses less money over time.

Members of the Sustainable Energy Advisory Board have said it would like more specifics about the utilitys competing offering, most notably how much it would cost ratepayers and to what extent it could result in the building of new solar and wind projects.

Theres no pricing which creates risk for the city, and there was no explanation of what the citys role would be, said Douglas Kot, an architect and planner who sits on the advisory board.

Advisory board member Sean Karafin, who works at the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, expressed the lone opposition to sending the letter criticizing the utilitys vision.

Critiquing a proposal that is expected to evolve significantly by the time the City Council is asked to make a decision seems counterproductive to me, he said in an email.

SDG&E officials have yet to say whether the company would provide further details to the city.

Investor-owned utilities have long had a contentious relationship with these fast-spreading government power agencies  which now serve more than 10 percent of energy demands across California.

The war between the first community choice program, Marin Clean Energy, and Pacific Gas & Electric resulted in a state prohibition on utilities using ratepayer dollars to influence whether a city adopts the public-energy program.

Since January, SDG&E, PG&E and Southern California Edison have jointly petitioned the Public Utilities Commission to lift the ban on lobbying. Its not clear when, if at all, the commission will rule on the request.

SDG&E has said it would like more flexibility to educate elected officials on the issues, and said that the restrictions on communication are another reason it hasnt provided a more detailed proposal for getting to 100 percent renewable energy.

The San Diego City Attorneys office, as well as a host of groups representing community choice programs, opposed the move.

They have an agenda, said Nicole Capretz, executive director of the San Diego-based Climate Action Campaign. Theyre not just trying to share information. Theyre trying to kill community choice to keep their monopoly.

Last year, SDG&Es parent company Sempra Energy became the first in the state to launch a shareholder-funded marketing division to sidestep the prohibition on lobbying.

The group known as Sempra Services has since teamed up with some of the regions most powerful groups, from the chamber of commerce to the Downtown San Diego Partnership to the San Diego County Taxpayers Association, to form the Clear the Air Coalition.

The coalition has repeatedly lobbied the city to delay its decision on community choice and raised concerns that the program could cost the city taxpayer money.

The taxpayers are always the backstop, said coalition spokesperson Tony Manolatos.

Many cities have indemnified against losses through the formation of a joint powers authority.

Another cost analysis of community choice is expected later this year after the Public Utilities Commission overhauls a so-called exit fee. The charge is paid by community choice programs to compensate utilities for the energy contracts they have signed on behalf of ratepayers who subsequently get enrolled in the government program.

Those costs includes everything from long-term contracts for natural gas projects to renewable power deals that utilities entered into before the cost of solar and wind power dropped. The commission is expected to release its new formula for the fee in later summer.

Twitter: @jemersmith

Phone: (619) 293-2234

Email: joshua.smith@sduniontribune.comThe knock at the bedroom door of the North County home was innocent enough  a daughter calling out to her father on the other side to see if he was OK.

But to him, it was the unrecognizable voice of an intruder. He armed himself and fired a shot through the door, striking his daughter in the leg.

In Carmel Mountain, an elderly man, convinced his wife was having an affair with the neighbor, threatened to shoot them both. She fled the house barefoot, running through cacti and scaling a fence.

In both cases, the fog of dementia had turned once responsible gun owners into dangerous men.

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Its an issue that is gaining more attention as the U.S. population ages and healthcare providers explore ways to address the sensitive, politically charged topic of safety versus civil rights.

Of the nearly 5.3 million Americans with Alzheimers, an estimated 5.1 million are 65 and older. At the same time, an estimated 33 percent of adults in that same age bracket own guns, while another 12 percent live in a household with someone else who does, the Pew Research Center reported last year.

The message certainly is not that this is the next big thing people need to be generally afraid of, said Dr. Emmy Betz, associate professor of emergency medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, who recently authored a study on the issue. But for families dealing with it, and for home health aides, it is a really big deal.

Recognizing the problem

Alzheimers San Diego, a nonprofit that provides support and education to patients and their families, started asking about guns in the home several years ago as part of its respite care program, which sends volunteers into households to provide give caregivers a break.

They learned that as many as 30 percent of homes they were going into had guns.

These werent usually guns in a safe. These were old weapons, literally being stored in shoe boxes under the bed, said Jessica Empeno, vice president of programs and family services.

The exercise also revealed that many family members of dementia patients werent thinking of the guns as a potential threat.

They are just trying to get through day to day, trying to understand the disease and coping with many changes, Empeno said. Its hard to be proactive and try to anticipate what could come next. Especially if guns are tucked away. Maybe they belonged to the person who has dementia and its not even something the wife thinks about.

Its also a difficult leap to suddenly have to view your loved one  once a safe, responsible gun owner and all around gentle person  as a potential danger.

Part of the solution is teaching family members that dementia and Alzheimers is much more than just memory loss. Patients can lose the ability to recognize people, and its not uncommon for patients to experience paranoia, delusional thinking, hallucinations and aggression.

If he cant recognize that its the grandchildren playing in the front yard or the neighbor coming to the door, do you really want to take the risk that he pulls out the gun because he thinks hes protecting the home? Empeno asked.

There is also a heightened risk of suicide. Firearms are the most common method of suicide by dementia patients, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Theres not usually a cry for help in these cases where we have a suicide or murder-suicide, Empeno said. A lot of times, they are in the very early stages of the disease, which can be the hardest, and they might be more aware of whats happening to them or fear losing their abilities or have a lack of support. Maybe theyre not even diagnosed yet.

Healthcare advocates say when it comes to dementia, the gun question should be as common as asking about the ability to safely drive a car.

But a study published in May in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that despite the steady increase in dementia and Alzheimers patients, there is not a validated screening tool for assessing firearm access among cognitively-impaired people.

Betz, lead author of the study, said while there is certainly a role for physicians, its more of a discussion thats happening at the family level. And she hopes its a discussion that is non-partisan.

Many questions on firearm access in dementia remain unanswered, but the need to address the problem is here now, the study concludes. We believe that a concerted, cooperative effort making the best use of data at hand can help prevent injuries and deaths while protecting the dignity and rights of older adults.

The options

Families concerned about gun access have several options  and they dont all include getting rid of the gun.

A best case scenario puts the decision in the hands of the patient. Healthcare providers suggest sitting down with the gun owner in the early stages of dementia and writing out an agreement  either unofficially or as a legally binding trust  stating what will happen to the firearms and giving an individual the power to restrict access when the appropriate time comes.

People with a diagnosis early enough in the disease often say, Youre right, I dont want to take the risk of hurting someone, and they turn it over, Empeno said.

But many families dont have that luxury.

Most of the time, patients are not able to have insight into their situation, and we want to go about it in a way that preserves their dignity, she said. It might be removing the guns without their knowledge.

Thats what one East County family had to do.

The gentleman with dementia had a habit of sitting in his chair with his gun in his lap and a drink in his hand, said Empeno. The family tried to reason with him, but he absolutely refused to give up his guns.

Those guns were like his security blanket, she said.

The family finally sneaked into the home when he was asleep and removed the guns.

Another family felt guilty about removing a mothers prized guns, so they disabled them but allowed her to keep them in the home. That can create problems, however, because other people  including police  cant readily tell if a gun is functional or not.

John Phillips, founder and president of Poway Weapons and Gear Range, empathizes. The owner of the mega gun store and shooting range had to have a similar uncomfortable discussion with his grandmother, who was a gun enthusiast.

Its a pretty sensitive issue. Whenever you have people whove spent their lives, whether in the military or law enforcement or being independent, and now you have the conversations about whether firearms around them are safe.

The experience has helped create a partnership between Phillips and Alzheimers San Diego to address the issue, including donating gun locks to make such households safer.

I dont want people to feel we are helping take away anybodys right to have firearms in the home, said Phillips, a retired federal law enforcement officer.

Gun safes are another, more expensive, option, as well as storing weapons at a family members home or at a local gun shop.

What the law says

But beware, California has a complex matrix of gun laws.

The last thing we need is a wife taking care of her husband, transferring a firearm to a friend and becoming a felon, Phillips said, who helps educate gun owners about the legal options.

If selling or transferring a gun to a friend or complete stranger, the transaction must be done through a licensed dealer, with the same rules applying as a new gun purchase.

Exempt from that law, however, are transfers between immediate family members  grandparents, parents, children and grandchildren. The transfer must still be reported to the state, though, and the new owner must obtain a firearm safety certificate before taking possession.

There is also a similar exception for loaning a gun to family  the list includes siblings this time  but there is a 30 day limit and a safety certificate is still required. And if its a handgun, it must be registered to the person making the loan.

Unwanted guns can be turned over to local police departments at any time, without compensation, or family members can wait for periodic gun buyback events that offer gift cards in exchange.

There is another option, for the really hard cases: a Gun Violence Restraining Order.

A state law enacted in 2016 created a new type of restraining order that temporarily takes away firearms from individuals who show evidence of imminent harm to themselves or others.

San Diego City Attorney Mara Elliott was attending a working group discussion on elderly issues one day when she heard Alzheimers San Diego mention the difficulty of one family in particular who felt helpless in their attempt to remove guns from the home.

Thats when I had an a-ha moment, Elliott said. She went back to her office and expedited implementing a Gun Violence Restraining Order program.

The office has filed about 30 so far, mostly in instances of domestic violence, drug abuse and mental illness. Only one has been a dementia case  the one involving threats against the wife and neighbor in Carmel Mountain.

The most important element is that it allows us to act before a tragedy occurs, Elliott said. We dont have to wait for a crime to be committed.

A restraining order can only be initiated by law enforcement or a family member. The City Attorneys Office can then file it with the court, or a family member can hire a private attorney.

Evidence of a strong likelihood of harm to oneself or others is needed, and the gun owner can respond in court to the accusations. A GVRO is good for one year and is renewable.

San Diego County Gun Owners, a gun rights political action committee, has raised concerns over the need for such restraining orders, saying they appear to be designed to impact peoples civil rights.

We defend and advocate for sane, trained, law-abiding gun owners, said Michael Schwartz, the nonprofits executive director. Especially as Baby Boomers get older, (the issue of dementia and guns) is a discussion that needs more attention.

However, he points to laws already on the books that allow law enforcement to take guns away from criminals and the mentally unfit. The group sent letters to the City Attorneys Office both before and after a meeting discussing the restraining orders.

GVROs are not a valuable or needed tool for law enforcement, crime victims or mental health, one letter concludes.

Elliott argued that, especially in the case of dementia patients, it is a long and intrusive process to have someone deemed mentally unfit. A GVRO can accomplish the same goal of safety without having to hospitalize someone against his or her will.

GVROs are likely to grow more common. The city recently held training for law enforcement and government counsel around the county on how to file such petitions.

kristina.davis@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @kristinadavisFifty years after he was felled by an assassins bullet, Robert F. Kennedy retains his pull on the nations political imagination.

What if he hadnt been killed?

One of his sons, Robert Kennedy Jr., stoked the flames of remembrance of remembrance recently when he said he doubts Sirhan B. Sirhan was the only gunman in the kitchen of the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles that June night in 1968. He wants the killing re-investigated.

More retrospectives are expected Wednesday during a public memorial service at Arlington National Cemetery, where Kennedy is buried. Former President Bill Clinton and Kennedys daughter, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, will be among the speakers.

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The milestone anniversary also resonates in San Diego. Kennedy made his final campaign appearance and speech here 50 years ago today, an interesting footnote to what would soon became a national tragedy.

The 42-year-old senator from New York had entered the race for the Democratic presidential nomination on March 16, just 80 days earlier, with a call for the nation to stand for hope instead of despair. Hed been sprinting around the the country, winning primaries in Indiana and Nebraska, and losing in Oregon.

California was crucial to his hopes because its size and diversity made it a microcosm of the whole nation. He told those close to him that if he didnt win the states 174 delegates, he would drop out. His Democratic foes, Sen. Eugene McCarthy and Vice President Hubert Humphrey, were doing everything they could to make that happen.

Kennedy had already been to San Diego several times that spring, drawing enthusiastic crowds, and now he was back, at the El Cortez Hotel.

It was June 3, a night rally. Kennedy started giving his usual stump speech, calling for an end to the Vietnam War and an end to racial injustice.

I think we can do better for this country than that, he said.

Then he stopped. He sagged to the floor and sat near the edge of the stage. He put his head in his hands.

He was so fatigued he passed out, said George Mitrovich, a longtime San Diegan who worked as a press aide on the Kennedy campaign.

Ushered backstage, into a bathroom, Kennedy splashed water on his face. Minutes passed. Then he went out and finished his talk. The crowd of about 3,000 people cheered.

A day later, Kennedy won the primary. And lost his life.

An ability to relate to people

Mitrovich is among those who think Kennedy would have gone on to capture the Democratic nomination, and then the White House.

And every terrible awful thing that happened after would have been avoided, he said. But thats not how its gone.

Kennedys death came almost five years after his brother, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated in Dallas, and just two months after civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was slain in Memphis, Tenn.

Riots rocked several American cities that summer. At the Democratic Partys national convention in Chicago, where Humphrey won the nomination, protesters outside battled the police and the National Guard while network TV cameras captured the mayhem.

Humphrey lost the election in November to Richard Nixon, who escalated the war in Vietnam, won re-election in a landslide in 1972, and was forced out of office two years later by the Watergate scandal.

Along the way, the despair Bobby Kennedy had campaigned against took hold, said Mitrovich, who remains friends with the slain candidates family. At Mitrovichs request, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend gave a talk Saturday about her father at the City Club of San Diego.

Mitrovich still remembers the throngs that greeted Kennedy wherever he went, pressing forward to shake his hand. At one May rally, in Los Angeles, where the candidate sat in a convertible as it moved through the streets, admirers tore off his shoes as keepsakes.

At a rally in San Ysidro, Mitrovich said, Chargers receiver Lance Alworth, a Kennedy supporter, got out of the convertible and was almost crushed in the excitement. Mitrovich opened a car door and Alworth squeezed inside to safety.

More than any candidate Ive ever seen, Bobby Kennedy had an ability to relate to people, to connect with people, on a deep, moral, and even spiritual level, Mitrovich said.

Joseph Palermo, a history professor at Sacramento State who has written extensively about Kennedy and the 1968 campaign, also thinks the candidate would have won the nomination and then the presidency.

Its impossible to know how all that would play out, Palermo said in an e-mail interview, but in many ways he appears to have been the right leader at the right time  stitching together a coalition that crossed the usual political and cultural boundaries.

RFK had a sense of moral outrage at injustices in the United States, Palermo said, yet he did so in a way that was patriotic, calling out in 1968 that the country was not living up to its own creed and ideals.

Tough path to presidency

James Rogan was in the fifth grade during the 1968 California primary. He had a teacher who urged the students to follow the campaign.

It lit a fuse in me, Rogan said, and I became a political junkie.

He grew up to be a lawyer, a judge, a Republican state legislator and then a two-term U.S. congressman who was one of the House prosecutors in the Clinton impeachment trial. Hes now a Superior Court judge in Orange County.

Hes also the author of On to Chicago: Rediscovering Robert F. Kennedy and the Lost Campaign of 1968, a new book that imagines what might have happened if the bullet from Sirhan had not been fatal.

Rogan said the idea for the book took hold in 2015, as he watched a debate for the Republican presidential nomination that included 17 candidates. Donald Trump was there, and Jeb Bush  both well-known. The others?

I dont mean this in a negative way, Rogan said, but from a national political standpoint, it was a bunch of nobodys. Campaigns didnt used to be that way.

He thought back to 1968, when giants walked the field: Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Reagan, Humphrey, Romney, McCarthy, Rockefeller, Wallace.

I saw it as a chance to reintroduce people to that campaign, Rogan said, a notion that was reinforced when young lawyers he saw in his judges chambers would ask him what outside project he was working on and then give him blank stares when he told them.

I have attorneys who dont know who Robert F. Kennedy is, Rogan said.

Hes suspicious of the conventional wisdom that if Kennedy had lived, he would have become president. He had a path to the presidency, but it was a tough path, and he knew it, Rogan said.

The party insiders had more control of the delegates and the nominating process than they do now. Thats how Humphrey was able to wait until April to join the race, not enter any primaries, and still get the nod.

Even though President Johnson had bowed out of the election, he still controlled a lot of the party strings, and he loathed Kennedy, Rogan said. (The feeling was mutual, he noted.)

He thinks theres a good chance Kennedy would have wound up as Humphreys vice president, which would have altered Nixons choice for running mate. And that George Wallace, running strong in the South, would have played a key role in deciding the outcome at the Electoral College.

All the what ifs? figure to peak in the coming days, with the 50th anniversary of the assassination, and one of the interesting things about the speculation is that Kennedy himself might have disapproved.

Mitrovich recalled a television interview that Ethel Kennedy, the widow, gave 25 years ago.

Kennedys, she said, do not do woulda, coulda, shoulda.

john.wilkens@sduniontribune.comFeel like earning a little extra money and maybe improving your health at the same time?

Consumers will soon be able to sell or rent their DNA to scientists who are trying to fight diseases as different as dementia, lupus and leukemia.

Bio-brokers want to collect everything from someones 23andMe and Ancestry.com gene data to fully sequenced genomes.

The data would be sold or rented to biomedical institutes, universities and pharmaceutical companies, generating money for consumers who share their genetic secrets.

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The roundup is mostly led by Luna DNA of Solana Beach and Nebula Genomics of San Francisco, startups that are still figuring out how much a person would be paid for their contribution.

Its part of the booming bio-economy, where so-called sequencing subsidies are starting to emerge.

Scientists say they need enormous amounts of genetic data from across different ethnic, racial and age groups, and different genders, to develop diagnostics and drugs.

The need for new and better therapeutics is deep and broad.

Most people never develop a genetic disorder. But single genes are responsible for causing more than 6,000 human diseases, including cystic fibrosis and muscular dystrophy. There are also many diseases influenced by multiple genes, notably obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Luna DNA is asking people to share data theyve gotten from such direct-to-consumer personal genomics companies as 23andMe and Ancestry.com, both which are highly popular.

23andMe has become the first direct-to-consumer personal genomics company to gain FDA approval to screen for certain diseases. (23andMe )

A subsidiary of Ancestry.com reportedly sold about 1.5 million saliva test kits last year between Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Thats like 2,000 gallons of salivaenough to fill a modest above-ground swimming pool with the genetic history of every person in the city of Philadelphia, said Wired.com.

Nebula Genomics wants people to contribute their entire genome, and is prepared to help consumers get sequenced at reduced costs. The consumer could then sell or rent the data on Nebulas data exchange. Consumers would be paid in some form of cryptocurrency that could be converted to dollars.

The bio-brokers sense that a grand opportunity is at hand.

The cost of sequencing a persons genome has fallen dramatically over the past 15 years and now stands at about $1,000. The price could drop to $100 within three years.

Scientists also are benefiting from the invention of Crispr, a quick, easy and accurate way to modify DNA for therapeutic purposes.

Nebula Genomics was co-founded by George Church, the renowned Harvard researcher who has greatly advanced gene sequencing. (AP )

Thanks to continuous technological advancement, we have now reached a tipping point where the genomics revolution will spread beyond academic laboratories and affect the lives of millions of people, said Dennis Grishin, co-founder of Nebula Genomics.

If remaining challenges such as data privacy protection are addressed, the number of people who have their genomes sequenced is going to grow exponentially, possibly more than doubling every year.

Genomics will become an integral part of personal healthcare. Pharma companies will be buying large genomic data sets and using them to develop new drugs.

The medical, financial, legal and ethical implications of such change will be daunting and, in some cases, hard to fathom. So the Union-Tribune decided to answer what are likely to be some common questions.

The answers were produced with help from scientists at UC San Diego, the Scripps Translational Science Institute in La Jolla, Nebula Genomics and Luna DNA.

Jay Antico, manager of clinical lab, stands before tubes of saliva that consumers have sent to Ancestry for DNA analysis. (McClatchy )

Q: What specific kind of data are scientists seeking from consumers?

A: You, me, the next person  we all have the same genes.

But theres variation in those genes. Some variants are neutral; they determine things like our hair color and height. Some are beneficial; they help protect us from illness. And some variants can make us susceptible to disease. We call those mutations.

Scientists are largely interested in the mutations because they can cause diseases and disorders.

23andMe tests the DNA in your saliva for more than 500,000 variants  with an eye for trouble. Last year, the FDA gave the company permission to screen people for genes associated with 10 diseases and disorders, including Huntingtons disease and late-onset Alzheimers disease. More recently, the agency gave 23andMe permission to screen for three genes associated with cancer.

The company uses this data to estimate a persons risk for developing the various diseases.

This is not a diagnosis; it is risk analysis based on an incomplete and changing understanding of human genetics.

Tests like Ancestry and 23andMe only look at small areas of the genome, and arent considered to be useful tests for medical care by most genetics experts, said Lisa Madlensky, director of the Family Cancer Genetics Program at UC San Diego.

However, they can sometimes identify something medically important that needs to be confirmed in a medical genetics laboratory.

The data always has to be put into perspective. The FDA emphasized that point last year when it approved 23andMes first screening tests, saying, It is important that people understand that genetic risk is just one piece of the bigger puzzle. It does not mean they will or wont ultimately develop a disease.

Q: If I take one of these tests, do I own the data thats generated from my DNA?

A. Generally speaking, yes. But you have to read the fine print. You should make sure that you say no if you dont want a company like 23andMe selling your data to a pharmaceutical company or some other type of institution.

Nebula Genomics and Luna DNA are trying to build databases that would be of commercial and scientific interest to the bio-pharma industry. Theres nothing wrong with that. You just need to be aware that they need your permission to sell your data.

Q: Is it likely that a consumer could make a significant amount of money from either of these two companies?

A: That remains to be seen. Theyre both startups, so they havent finalized how theyre going to do things. Dawn Barry, the president of Luna DNA, told the Union-Tribune:

Individuals will be rewarded when proceeds are generated through the sale of access to the data.

Think of it like a co-op where the value comes from the data set as a whole and dividends are paid out to the individuals that contribute their genomic and health information. The more data you share, the more shares in the database you own, the greater your percentage of the proceeds.

Q: Is Nebula Genomics looking for something different from consumers?

A: The test used by 23andMe offers a very limited look at a persons genes. Nebula wants to get a complete look. So theyre asking consumers to undergo so-called whole genome sequencing. As the name implies, this technique maps out a persons entire genetic makeup. Such data is widely used by biomedical researchers. And this kind of sequencing is moving into clinical settings. For example, this test is used to sequence bacteria, which helps hospitals fight infection diseases.

Q: There are many types of genetic testing. How accurate are the results?

A: Mistakes can be made in every type of testing. And it can be difficult to determine overall accuracy, especially with direct-to-consumer DNA tests that involve ethnicity and genealogy.

Some consumers have reported getting different results when theyve used the tests marketed by 23andMe and Ancestry.com.

To be fair, Ancestry.com says that its only providing an estimate when it calculates what percentage of your DNA that comes from different parts of the world.

But the company touts its reach, noting that it maintains the worlds largest online family history resource, which includes millions of family trees and over 20 billion historical records.

Tufts University researcher Sheldon Krimsky studied this kind of testing and told a campus publication, Companies selling these services  and there are close to 40 of them  dont share their data, and their methods are not validated by an independent group of scientists and there are not agreed-upon standards of accuracy 

So you have to look at the percentages you receive back with skepticism.

Consumers also have to be prepared for surprises.

You may discover things about yourself that trouble you and that you may not have the ability to control or change (e.g., your father is not genetically your father, surprising facts related to your ancestry, or that someone with your genotype may have a higher than average chance of developing a specific condition or disease), says 23andMes Terms of Service statement.

These outcomes could have social, legal, or economic implications.

Sometimes, the outcome is joyful.

I found my birth family using 23andMe, specifically my mother who had been trying to find me, BreAnne Custodio told the Union-Tribune. We now talk weekly.

The results can also be jarring.

You should not assume that any information we may be able to provide to you, whether now or as genetic research advances, will be welcome or positive, 23andMe says in its Terms of Service.

You should also understand that as research advances, in order for you to assess the meaning of your DNA in the context of such advances, you may need to obtain further services from 23andMe, your physician, a genetic counselor, or other health care provider. 

Q: Do most people understand the risk analysis they get from a company like 23andMe?

A: Its difficult to say.

DNA is a popular topic in books, movies, TV and on the web. Basic genetics is taught in school. Most people probably have a rudimentary understanding of DNA testing.

But drawing meaning from DNA is a complex, nuanced, fast-changing field. It can be hard for consumers to keep up.

The public also has to cope with conflicting claims. We saw an example of that in March after the FDA gave 23andMe permission to check to see if a person has any of three specific BRCA gene mutations that are associated with cancer.

The National Society of Genetic Counselors said the test could help reveal undetected mutations, but stressed that the results may be confusing or misleading without appropriate education.

Such comments reminded Anne Wojcicki, chief executive officer of 23andMe, of how some physicians lobbied against the use of at-home pregnancy tests when they were introduced 40 years ago

They thought women might not be able to handle such information on their own and claimed that the results might trigger them to make irrational decisions, Wojcicki told Stat News.

Some went so far as to claim it would lead to suicides. Looking back, it seems unthinkable that we questioned womens ability to access this kind of information.

Q: Should I be worried about the privacy of my data?

A: Barry said, An individuals data contains no personal identifiers and is combined with the broad population to create the scale and scope necessary to drive medical discoveries.

You hear similar things from other companies, and from the government.

Keep in mind that hackers have stolen data from everyone from the National Security Agency to local hospitals. Anyone can be hacked.In 2017, local businessman Jamil Dada was tapped by the March Air Reserve Base vice commander, Brig. Gen. Russell A. Muncy, to join the Air Mobility Command Civic Leader Program. The program, which was launched in 2008, is an outreach effort designed to cultivate partnerships in communities near to and surrounding Air Force installations. With members selected from across the United States, Dada is the first resident of the Inland Empire to join the program.

Dada talks about his service in the program, and tells us why March Air Reserve Base (March ARB) is such a big deal in the region.

Q: First, what is the Air Mobility Command (AMC)?

A: AMC airmen are frequently the first ones to arrive and the last ones to depart any operation. Their missions include air refueling, aeromedical evacuation, airlift and mobility support.

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Q: How are civilians selected for the U.S. Air Force Mobility Command Civic Leader Program?

A: The AMC Office of Public Affairs reviews nominees submitted by base commanders and selects members to serve three-year terms.

Q: Why does the military needs civic leader support?

A: General Everhart, the four-star general and commander of AMC is a true visionary leader and an outside the box thinker. He realized that including business and civic leaders would create a team of more informed community leaders who understand first-hand the impact of todays military to national defense and community support roles. This thinking can definitely lead to stronger partnerships between the military and surrounding communities.

Q: How does this region benefit from your service on the AMC civic leader program?

A: The Department of Defense is constantly looking to shrink the military footprint by shuttering bases. As an ambassador, I may be able to sway the scale to benefit March ARB.

March is extremely important to the Southern California region. It has a $600 million economic impact on the regional economy and, with one of the largest runways west of the Mississippi River  even larger than LAX  it could become the key location for first responders staging disaster relief in case of a major earthquake or tsunami in Southern California.

Q: You work as Vice President of Investment Services at Provident Bank and serve on several regional and national boards, including as president of the March Field Air Museum board. Why add the AMC civic leader program to an already full plate?

A: When I was very young, my grandfather embedded something in my head that has become my lifes philosophy. He said, this world would be a much better place if we measured success by how much one gives rather than how much one makes.

My greatest accomplishment in life has been to become a U.S. citizen. One reason I do what I do is because its my way of saying thank you.

I believe that out of the 216 countries in the world, we are one of the few that remain a beacon of hope, freedom and democracy for the rest of the world and that is why more people continue to come to America than are leaving. And I seriously believe that that has a lot to do with the daily sacrifices that our military makes. Most of us here in America can carry on our daily lives in peace and tranquility because of the tireless, selfless service of our airmen, soldiers, sailors and Marines. Surely, their service deserves ours.

temecula@sduniontribune.comLawyers for President Trump argued in a secret memo submitted to special counsel Robert S. Mueller III in January that Trump could not have obstructed the FBIs inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 election in part because, as president, he holds complete control over federal investigations.

The president has the power to order the termination of an investigation by the Justice Department or FBI at any time and for any reason, Trump lawyers John Dowd and Jay Sekulow argued in the letter to Mueller, which was published Saturday by the New York Times.

As the nations chief law enforcement officer, Trump could even exercise his power to pardon if so desired, they argued. A person familiar with the letter confirmed its authenticity.

The 20-page letter offered a sweeping assertion of the powers of the presidency as well as a detailed and robust defense of Trumps actions in dealing with the unfolding Russia investigation, including his firing of FBI Director James B. Comey in May 2017. It concluded that Trumps actions were in keeping with the expansive powers of the presidency and could not constitute crimes.

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Ultimately, Trumps lawyers argued that the president should not be compelled to sit for an interview to assist Muellers effort, arguing that the White House provided full access to documents and interviews with other senior staff members that was sufficient to answer questions about Trumps actions.

The Presidents prime function as the Chief Executive ought not be hampered by requests for interview. Having him testify demeans the Office of the President before the world, they wrote.

The arguments parallel those that the presidents attorneys have pressed publicly for months, even as quiet negotiations over whether Trump might agree to sit voluntarily for an interview have continued. They help underscore the legal battle underway between the White House and the special counsel. Should Mueller seek to compel Trumps testimony with a subpoena, the arguments advanced in the letter could ultimately form the basis of a courtroom fight that would probably reach the U.S. Supreme Court.

After former New York Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani replaced Dowd as Trumps chief lawyer in March, he reopened negotiations with Mueller about forestalling that kind of public battle through a voluntary interview. Giuliani at first expressed confidence that he could resolve the matter within weeks.

But the debate has dragged on, and, more recently, Giuliani has expressed wariness over having his client sit for an interview and said he would only agree if the special counsels office first turns over internal documents that shed light on the beginnings of the FBIs investigation in 2016, before Muellers appointment.

He told the Washington Post last week that Trumps lawyers are drafting a letter to Mueller laying out those terms and that Jane and Marty Raskin, a husband-and-wife team from Florida assisting Trumps defense, are in contact with Muellers office three times a week.

Muellers team has told the presidents lawyers that they think they have the power to issue Trump a subpoena and compel his testimony, but they have not yet sought to pursue that route.

They may do a subpoena. The subpoena would then be contested. That would be going on for months, Giuliani said.

In a statement Saturday, Sekulow asserted that Trumps legal position has been consistent and bemoaned the leaking of the internal document.

We have maintained a consistent legal argument throughout the many months of this inquiry. Our legal team would not disclose internal communications with the office of special counsel. We continue to maintain cooperative relations with the office of special counsel, he said.

In a Twitter message sent shortly before the New York Times story was posted online, Trump questioned whether Muellers team might have been responsible for the leak. Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media? he asked.

There was No Collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country. Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media? Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2018

A spokesman for the special counsels office declined to comment.

The letter also provides new details about Trumps actions in dealing with the Russia inquiry. For instance, his lawyers reveal that former national security advisor Michael Flynn twice told senior White House officials, including the vice president, before his firing in February 2017 that he had been informed that the FBI had closed its investigation into his contacts with the Russian ambassador during the presidential transition.

Comey has said that Trump asked him to let the case against Flynn go in an Oval Office meeting the day after Flynns firing. In their letter, Trumps lawyers contested that account, but also argued that the president could not have been attempting to interfere in an investigation he was not aware was underway.

Trumps lawyers also argued that the president could not have obstructed justice by firing Comey several months later. Trumps decision to dismiss the FBI director was an appropriate use of presidential power intended to exert oversight over the bureau as a result of its missteps in the 2016 investigation of Hillary Clintons use of a private email server while she was secretary of State, they wrote.

They asserted that Deputy Atty. Gen. Rod Rosenstein, who is now supervising Muellers investigation, actually helped to edit Trumps letter terminating Comey and actively advised the President accordingly. At the time, Rosenstein also wrote his own memo criticizing Comeys handling of the Clinton case.

Trumps lawyers wrote that it would be unthinkable for a president acting under his constitutional authority and with the overt participation of his deputy attorney general to have obstructed justice.

A Justice Department spokeswoman declined to comment.

In another episode Mueller has been looking into, Trumps lawyers conceded for the first time that in July 2017 Trump dictated a statement to be released on behalf of his son Donald Trump Jr. about a meeting that Trump Jr. had with a Russian lawyer during the campaign.

The Washington Post first reported in July that the president had written his sons statement, which misleadingly said the meeting was primarily about Russian adoptions. In fact, Trump Jr. had accepted the meeting after being told the lawyer would provide political dirt about Clinton.

In their letter, Trumps lawyers contended that the statement was short but accurate and a private matter to be hashed out between the president and the New York Times, which had requested the statement, rather than an issue for federal prosecutors.A pair of experienced climbers were killed when they fell off the face of El Capitan  the largest ascent in Yosemite National Park.

Park rangers were called to the massive granite monolith  towering almost 3,000 feet above the Yosemite Valley floor  at about 8:15 a.m. Saturday after the climbers lost their hold on the Free Blast route.

The National Parks Service identified the pair as Jason Wells, a 46-year-old Boulder, Colo. resident, and Tim Klien, a 42-year-old Palmdale, Calif. resident.

It was the second fatal incident in the last week at the California national park whose granite cliffs have long been a draw for mountain climbers. An unidentified hiker fell off the cables permanently attached to Half Dome, another granite cliff, during a May 21 thunderstorm.

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Wells and Klien regularly climbed together since they were college students together in San Diego, a longtime friend of the pair said.

Tim told me that Jason was the strongest and best partner he ever climbed with, Wayne Willoughby told Climbing.com.

Klien, was a teacher and married father of two, while Wells was an asset manager in Colorado who was married in 2016, the website reported.

El Capitan is the biggest granite monolith in the world, and the Free Blast route is a practically full vertical path to its summit.

Wells and Klien had scaled El Capitan in the past, and were getting ready for a speed climb up the towering monolith, according to the Guardian. They were reportedly using a riskier method to scale the cliff, in which they ascended side-by-side and attached to the same rope.

Their fatal fall came three days after fellow climbers Tommy Caldwell and Alex Honnold set a record by ascending the so-called Nose route of El Capitan in about two hours and 10 minutes.

Andrew Foster, a Welsh climber, was killed in September 2017 on El Capitan during a rock fall that severely injured his wife. A year earlier, 16 people were killed at Yosemite.An off-duty FBI agent accidentally shot a fellow clubgoer when he went to pick up the gun that fell out of his pants while doing a backflip, according to local reports.

The unidentified g-man was seen busting a move at the Mile High Spirits Distillery and Tasting Bar in Denver at about 12:45 a.m. Saturday as people surrounded him, video of which was obtained by ABC affiliate KMGH.

A handgun is seen flying forward out of the back of the mans khaki-color pants as he does a backflip.

The man then immediately reaches for the firearm  only for it to go off as soon as he picks it up.

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An unidentified patron was struck in the lower leg when the weapon discharged, and a Denver police spokeswoman told the Daily News he had a non-life-threatening injury.

The off-duty agent was brought to police headquarters, where he was later handed over to a supervisor at the FBI, according to a statement from Denver police.

The law mans identity isnt being released because he wasnt arrested, the police spokeswoman said.

But the Denver Police Homicide Unit is still investigating the incident, cops said in a statement, and the Denver District Attorneys Office will determine if the off-duty agent will be charged.President Trump on Sunday tried to distance his ties to Paul Manafort, the embattled political operative who headed his campaign during a crucial point in the election.

Now, the commander-in-chief says he wouldnt have tapped the veteran GOP strategist if he knew the FBI was probing Manaforts overseas activities before the campaign.

Paul Manafort came into the campaign very late and was with us for a short period of time (he represented Ronald Reagan, Bob Dole & many others over the years), but we should have been told that Comey and the boys were doing a number on him, and he wouldnt have been hired! Trump tweeted Sunday morning, referring to ex-FBI Director James Comey, who he fired in May 2017.

Its the latest swipe Trump has taken at the Department of Justice and the FBI, which he alleged last month imbedded a spy in his campaign without providing much evidence to shore up the claim.

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Manafort has pleaded not guilty to a wave of charges brought by Muellers probe, and is set to go to trial next month. (Andrew Harnik / AP )

The feds reportedly started looking into Manafort in 2014  years before he was tapped to helm the Trump campaign in June 2016  but he wasnt indicted until October 2017, as part of special counsel Robert Muellers Russia probe. Manafort and longtime associate Rick Gates were hit with money laundering, tax fraud and bank fraud charges, which stemmed from lobby for Ukrainian officials before either joined the Trump campaign.

The President, whos spending the weekend in Camp David, questioned the feds decision to not tell him Manafort was under surveillance.

....Paul Manafort came into the campaign very late and was with us for a short period of time (he represented Ronald Reagan, Bob Dole & many others over the years), but we should have been told that Comey and the boys were doing a number on him, and he wouldnt have been hired!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 3, 2018

As only one of two people left who could become President, why wouldnt the FBI or Department of Justice have told me that they were secretly investigating Paul Manafort (on charges that were 10 years old and had been previously dropped) during my campaign? he tweeted.

Manafort led the Trump campaign from June to August 2016, before stepping down amid reports of his overseas work for Ukrainian officials. That time included the Republican National Convention, during which Trump secured the delegates to clinch the GOP nomination.

Gates pleaded guilty earlier this year, and is working with the Mueller team. Manafort, however, has pleaded not guilty to charges filed in Virginia, a trial for which is slated to begin in July. A separate trial for charges filed in Washington, D.C., is calendared for mid-September.

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.Four childhood friends. Three favorite foods. And all the fresh ingredients they can gather. Add all that up and you get Trio Eats, a new restaurant in west downtown Dearborn.



Though they opened last November, Trio Eats recently celebrated its grand opening. Trio takes over the old Brera Pizza spot downtown.



The restaurant gets its name from its four co-owners three favorite foods: Pizza, wraps, and salads.



"Weve all been friends since elementary school. We all grew up in Dearborn," says co-owner Nasser Beydoun, a local businessman who has opened 42 restaurants in the Middle East, including Rainforest Cafes in Cairo and Dubai. We remember restaurants that use fresh ingredients.



"We wanted to bring that back."



Beydoun and his friends also wanted to bring something else back: One of their friends who had moved to Florida, who has since been convinced to move back to Michigan to become head chef at Trio.



According to Beydoun, the ingredients at Trio are fresh and all-natural. The pizza is wood-fired, and uses Contandino flour, San Marzano Italian tomatoes, fresh basil, and pure olive oil. Salads and wraps are made fresh; the falafel is a professed stand-out.



The Trio group is high on downtown Dearborn, and their success there.



"Ford is building new office buildings here, there are lots of great new restaurants opening here. The areas booming," Beydoun says.



"For this area, Dearborn is the only city with that downtown feeling people are looking for. We have that walkable, exciting downtown experience here."



Beydoun and his group are already planning to expand the Trio brand. A pop-up falafel location in the works for downtown Detroit.



Trio Eats is located at 1002 S. Military St. in west downtown Dearborn.



Got a development news story to share? Email MJ Galbraith here or send him a tweet @mikegalbraith.Deven Khatri, student of transportation design, works with Raphael Zammit, chair of the MFA Transportation Design program at College for Creative Studies, Detroit.

Ever since he was a young boy, Deven Khatri has always had a passion for cars. He studied transportation design back home in India and landed a job after graduation working on an urban mobility solution to address the high rate of motorcycle deaths due to accidents. Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation and with many Indians not wearing seat belts or helmets, Khatri says his company developed a vehicle to keep the riders safe.After a few years he decided it was time to head to the United States to pursue a masters degree in transportation design."Because cars are my passion I had to come to the only city that offers me that holistically," he says.He applied to several schools, including one in California where he received an acceptance offer, but he ultimately decided to go to the College for Creative Studies (CCS). Now almost done with his first year of studies, hes glad he made the choice to come to Detroit. He says schools more or less offer the same educational tools, but CCS has introduced him to a few new software programs such as Zbrush, which is used by animators who make films."Its pretty interesting because CCS really broadens our horizons," he says.Khatri is among scores of international students in the relatively new MFA program in Transportation Design. When he graduates he wants to stay in the U.S. and ideally work for an original equipment manufacturer (OEM)."It's important to use your education as a gateway to settling down in a country, or looking for work in the country you want to settle down in, so for me, I really want to settle down in the States," he says.As more automakers shift from being car companies to mobility companies, transportation design education is evolving to address that. And Detroit is the place to do it."Detroit is making the future of mobility right here," says Paul Snyder, the Paul & Helen Farago Chair of Transportation Design at CCS. "I think there's a lot of (work in mobility) happening in China  (and) in Germany. We're getting a lot of Asian students coming here to learn how to do that and taking that technology or that information back to China or Korea because it's just not as available there yet in terms of the level of sophisticated industry knowledge. Detroit's the best place to do it still."At CCS, mobility design is one of three areas of specialization in addition to automotive design and vehicle design. Students today studying transportation design need to know so much more before they graduate, says Snyder, who is a class of 1987 alumnus of the school.Students are still studying the standard content from the past 30 to 40 years, but on top of that, transportation design education today addresses the changing needs of the users, he says.CCS mobility classes also focus a lot more on research."The kind of aptitude that students need to succeed in mobility is a little bit different than the aptitude they need to succeed for, let's say, just exterior design. And really understanding who the user is is much more critical. And a lot of the OEMs like Ford, for example, and General Motors, they're transitioning into being mobility companies," he says.Theres a personal connection between the person and the product, says Keith Nagara, college professor and director of the bachelors programs in industrial design and transportation design at Lawrence Technological University In addition to providing the skills necessary to use typical tools and computer-aided industrial design software like Alias, modern transportation design education has become much broader at schools like CCS and LTU, much like the field of mobility itself.Snyder says students are touching on deep ethnographic research as well as biology in a class called Science and Technology. The school brings in specialists for guest lecturers to explore anthropology.At the masters level, the school has incorporated mobility "into everything we do," while still "100 percent taking on the issues in the craft of designing vehicles," says Raphael Zammit, chair of the MFA Transportation Design program at CCS.Masters students also partner up with CCS other grad programs. This collaboration on a curriculum level is a major advantage, Zammit says.CCS brings in companies to sponsor projects. Students work in the studio where they design and build according to a brief."The briefs that companies come up with for sponsored projects are extremely indicative of their advanced research and development plan," Snyder says. "When I arrived here nobody was doing mobility-sponsored projects."At LTU, the bachelors program was established in 2007 after auto executives asked the university to start up a design program that integrated design, engineering, and technology into the curriculum, Nagara says.Clay modeling and CAD start freshman year, Nagara says. Students already come to LTU with strong drawing skills that they have to prove in a portfolio as part of the application process."We're probably the only program that basically just does clay modeling in the first year," Nagara says. "Typically clay modeling with a lot of different programs is done in maybe sophomore year or senior year. We do it only for one semester in the freshman year."Clay modeling dates back to at least the 1930s. Sketches are the starting point for the design process, and the next step is to take that drawing into a clay model. With all of the software and technology today, clay modeling may seem like an antiquated educational tool."Clay modeling is a traditional form of design, which may seem to be outdated for todays high-tech world of computer simulation programs. However, companies invest millions of dollars into a vehicle program, and clay still provides the closest form to the physical reality that provides designers and engineers the true perspective of a vehicle.This is something that no software today can completely provide," says Jim Carlson, an engineering and technology professor and digital sculptor program adviser at Macomb Community College, which is the only community college in Michigan that offers a digital sculpting program.Before a Macomb digital sculpting student begins courses using software, they learn "manual" techniques, Carlson says. "The content of our classes range from orthographic drawings, rendering, and lighting techniques. Our belief is to have the foundation of manual knowledge before the students use any software," Carlson says.Clay modeling still plays a role in the design process, but design technology is evolving."I think we're getting to the point where you can also walk around a property that's in virtual reality or holograms," Nagara says. "But the technology has to be equal to the physical property of what it is today. Were not just there yet but it's getting very close."Mobility design questions askedMobility is not just a transportation design issue but a social issue, Zammit says."It's going to change our lives in the way cellphones have changed our lives," he says.Students research and explore what the world will look like in 10 years, Nagara says. The current world population tops 7 billion and is expected to reach 8.5 billion by 2020; by 2050 there could be nearly 10 billion, according to the U.N. That poses a lot of questions for the transportation design student who must find the answers."What does that really mean for design?" Nagara says. "What's happening for food or buildings? What does that mean for mobility as people are moving more into urban centers? How does transportation and the transportation product change? What does it look like? Is it still private? Does it become more public? (In cities like) L.A. they're beginning to reject even public transportation  and so they're moving into products and services like Uber."When Snyder returned to Detroit from L.A., where he was working as a designer at Honda, "mobility was like a bad word because it foresaw doom for the traditional automotive industry," he says. But thats changing."It's a paradigm shift. And you know it may be painful for some and it may be revelatory for others. But one thing's for sure: There will be something to fit everybody's needs and wants and different tastes they might have.  Everybody is going to have to embrace this or risk becoming obsolete."Photos by Nick HagenPress Release

June 2, 2018 De Lima dares Duterte to apprehend big-time drug pushers, users Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima today dared President Duterte to run after big-time drug lords and drug users who remain scot-free instead of simply targeting the poor and the helpless in his administration's all-out war on drugs. De Lima made the statement after an Indian national was nabbed for purportedly supplying "party drugs" to clubs and admitted that his clients include politicians, celebrities and affluent families, among others. "How can this government succeed in its much-avowed campaign to solve the drug menace in the country when it only targets the ordinary Juan de la Cruzes whom he thinks incapable of protecting themselves?" she asked. "Roughly two years since he launched his all-out war on illegal drugs, Duterte still failed to go after high-profile drug pushers and users who unabashedly continue with their illegal activities," she said. Based on news reports, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) arrested Indian national Rajiv Gidwani and his Filipino accomplice Jeremiah Alero Carillo for allegedly selling pricey recreational drugs to Metro Manila's "high society" in a buy-bust operation at Alabang Hills Village in Muntinlupa City last May 25. PDEA Director General Aaron Aquino confirmed that the authorities seized supposed illegal drugs worth over P1 million such as "kush," a high-grade type of marijuana, ecstasy tablets and liquid ecstasy or "ketamine" which was believed to be smuggled from India. De Lima said she found it alarming how Gidwani reportedly admitted, as confirmed by Aquino, that "[the suspect's] clients are celebrities, millennials, affluent families and models--those who are well-off in life--because he's selling expensive drugs. [T]here were also some politicians." "Kung matapang talaga si Duterte, bakit mukhang naduduwag siyang panagutin ang tunay at maimpluwensyang drug users at pushers? Bakit laging mahihirap lang ang biktima at tinatarget ng kanilang gyera laban sa droga?" she asked. The Senator from Bicol likewise urged Duterte to reassess his administration's murderous war on drugs which took the lives of more than 20, 000 suspected drug offenders without the benefit of due process. "He (Duterte) should not allow suspected drug offenders--regardless of his/her social class or his/her relationship to him-- to evade justice and go unpunished, the same way that he should not allow suspected offenders to get killed without giving them a day in the court," she said. Note that during the campaign period, Duterte promised to end illegal drug trade in three to six months, but he later on admitted that the drug menace could not be solved easily and that the campaign would have to continue until the end of his term in 2022. A staunch critic of injustices happening in the country since Duterte assumed presidency, De Lima vowed to defend human rights even while in detention for politically-motivated trumped-up drug charges fabricated by the present administration.Press Release

June 2, 2018 Senate, House versions of BBL differ, says Drilon Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon identified significant differences between the Senate and the House of Representative's versions of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). The Senate's version maintains the 39 municipalities in North Cotabato as part of the territorial jurisdisction of the Bangsamoro, which will replace the current Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), once the bill is signed into law and ratified in a plebiscite, according to Drilon. The House's version, on the other hand, deletes the 39 municipalities as part of the core areas that comprise the Bangsamoro. Drilon said this could be a sticking point that both chambers should be able to smooth out when it goes to the bicameral conference committee for reconciliation. The minority leader proposed various amendments to the Senate version "in order make sure that the measure will not suffer the same fate as the Memorandum of Agreement on the Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD)." Drilon proposed changes to powers of the Bangsamoro government, which the Senate adopted, deleting provisions pertaining to the reserved, concurrent and exclusive powers of the Bangsamo government and removing the powers to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation and subpoena powers of the Parliament. The House, meanwhile, retained the provisions on reserved, concurrent and exclusive powers. In the House version, the province of Palawan is included in the list of areas considered as historically part of Bangsamoro territory. The Senate, however, removed the reference to Palawan. The Senate also added a provision stating that the Bangsamoro People are citizens of the Philippines pursuant to Article IV of the Constitution, an amendment pushed by Drilon. The said provision is absent in the House version. Drilon also believes that the Senate and the House will have to work hard to reconcile their differences pertaining to the share in national government taxes collected in the Bangsamoro, other than tariff and customs duties. The House proposed 25% share for national government and 75% for Bangsamoro, while the Senate version wanted a 50-50 sharing. Drilon sees this as among the contentious issues that both chambers should be able to iron out. Also among the sticky issues, Drilon added, is the prohibition on political dynasties, which is highly opposed by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC). The Senate version prohibits a party representative from being related within the second civil degree of consanguinity or affinity to a District Representative or another Party Representative in the same Parliament. There is no counterpart provision in the House version. The Senate also provided a qualification on the block grant which states that when national government incurs an unmanageable public sector deficit, the President of the Philippines is authorized, upon the recommendation of the DOF and DBM secretaries to make the necessary adjustments in the block grant. The House version does not contain such a provision. The Senate version also contains a provision preventing the Bangsamoro Parliament to include the procurement of firearms, ammunition and explosives in its annual appropriations law. The House version does not contain such a provision. The Senate and the House also differ in the establishment of the Bangsamoro police. The Senate proposed detailed provisions on the Bangsamoro Regional Police, including that a regional director should be selected by the Chief Minister from a list of nominees submitted by the PNP Senior Officers Placement and Promotion Board and approved by PNP Chief, confirmed by the National Police Commission (Napolcom). In the House version, it is the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government who will appoint the regional director. In relation, the Senate proposed that Chief Minister should sit as ex-officio commissioner of the Napolcom on Bangsamoro Police matters. This provision is absent in the House version. The Senate also removed a provision for the creation of Shari'ah Judicial and Bar Council (JBC), which will recommend nominees to the Shari'ah Courts. The House retained such provision.Press Release

June 2, 2018 Villar: Modernization will boost native animal industry Innovation and new techniques are key factors to further boost the native animal industry, says Sen. Cynthia A. Villar as she highlights the importance of training programs in improving current systems. Villar, who is the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, points out animal breeders and producers need to update their skills and modernize their methodologies to be able to keep up with changing supply and marketing demands. 'Modern times call for new approaches and fresh ideas to make sure that supply and demand are on the same level. Training programs on various income-generating undertakings are one of the best venues where innovation takes centerstage and small businesses learn how to improve their crafts,' Villar said. The lady senator made her remarks as she urged participants in a recent training program for trainors in native animal production to take into heart their new learnings, as she stressed that these would be useful in boosting the productivity of breeders and in ensuring the quality of their produce. Some 50 native animal breeders attended the training program, which was a joint offering of the Villar SIPAG and the National Swine and Poultry Research and Development Center under the Bureau of Animal Industry. The event was held at the Villar SIPAG Farm School in Bacoor City, Cavite. Participants to the two-day event were briefed about the Philippine Native Animal Development Program, and were likewise taught Native Chicken Production and Management, Native Duck Production and Management, Native Pig Production and Management, Natural feeds for Native Animal, Prospects and Marketing of Native Chicken and Ducks, and Salted Egg Making. By the end of the training, the breeders from the National Capital Region, Las Pinas, Muntinlupa, Bacoor, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon learned new techniques that are expected to help them increase their production and at the same time, encourage them to engage in other income-generating activities to fully harness the benefits of the native animal industry.Press Release

June 3, 2018 With nearly 4 million out-of-school youth:

WE MUST ENSURE THAT ALL CHILDREN ARE IN SCHOOL -ANGARA Senator Sonny Angara has urged the government to target its educational assistance to the four million out-of-school children and youth in the country. "While it's back to school for 28 million students, there are still some 3.8 million out-of-school children and youth out there who need government's assistance so they can have access to quality education. Nakalulungkot na milyun-milyon pa rin ang hindi nabibigyan ng pagkakataong makapag-aral na siyang susi para sa magandang kinabukasan ng kanilang pamilya," said Angara, a known advocate of educational reforms. Based on the 2016 Annual Poverty Indicators Survey, 3.8 million or one in every 10 Filipinos aged between 6 and 24 years is an out-of-school youth. More than half of the total out of school youth belong to the poorest families. Of the 3.8 million out-of-school youth, 87% were 16 to 24 years old, while only 8% were 12 to 15 years old, and only 5% percent were 6 to 11 years old. Angara pointed out that the free elementary and high school system has helped widen the access to education for Filipino children. The Free High School Act was principally authored by his father, the late Senator Ed Angara. "Laging ipinagmamalaki sa akin ng aking ama na simula elementarya hanggang graduate school ay wala ni isang sentimo siyang binayaran. Ito ang layunin niya--ang magpasa ng mga batas na magbibigay sa bawat Pilipino ng oportunidad makakuha ng libre at dekalidad na edukasyon--na atin namang ipagpapatuloy. "Three decades after the Free High School Law, we have high hopes that we can replicate its benefits to help our youth finish college. Dapat ay siguruhin natin na 10 out of 10 na ang makapagtatapos simula elementarya hanggang kolehiyo," said Angara, one of the authors of the Free College Law. To complement the free tuition in high school and college, Angara is pushing for student discount on books, school supplies, fares and other basic services to poor students. Angara also pointed out that the Free College Law provides for allowance for books, supplies, transportation, room and board, and other education-related personal expenses of poor students. "Ang pagbibigay ng libreng dekalidad na edukasyon ang pinakamalaking tulong na maibibigay natin sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino upang maiahon nila ang kanilang sarili mula sa kahirapan. Hindi na dapat maging hadlang ang malaking gastusin para sila ay makapagtapos sa pag-aaral," he said. Aside from high cost of education, among the reasons for not attending school of the out-of-school youth are illness or disability and accessibility of school. The senator is pushing for the passage of Senate Bill 1732 or the Inclusive Education for Children and Youth with Special Needs that seeks to widen the access to free quality education for those with disabilities or special health problems. The bill aims to establish Inclusive Education Learning Resource Centers in every public school division in the country. "All children with special needs should have the opportunity to learn and be developed in the most enhancing environment. It is our duty to provide them free, appropriate, and quality education that best meets their needs," said Angara, who co-authored and co-sponsored the measure.Press Release

June 3, 2018 De Lima seeks Senate probe on influx of Chinese nationals in PH Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has sought for a Senate inquiry into the influx of Chinese nationals employed and residing in the Philippines which not only steals jobs away from ordinary Filipinos but also triggers property surge on many developed areas. De Lima filed Senate Resolution (SR) No. 751 urging the appropriate Senate committee to assess the effective implementation of existing immigration and labor laws to ensure that Filipinos are protected against adverse effect caused by immigration surge. "The increasingly laxed control mechanisms over the influx of Chinese nationals in the Philippines have led to concerns on whether we have enough capability to properly enforce our immigration and labor laws to the detriment of our national interest," she said. In the Department of Tourism's Annual Visitor Sample Survey of 2017, the number of Chinese travelers to the Philippines grew by 54.43 percent last year, resulting to 371,429 visitors in the first quarter of 2018 alone. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) also noted an increase of 33.4 percent in the Alien Employment Permit (AEP) granted to foreign nationals intending to engage in employment in the Philippines, rising from 28,371 in 2015 to 41,993 in 2016. Chinese nationals consistently comprised most of the AEP holders from 2013 to 2016 - growing to 45 percent (18,920) in 2016 from 23.7 percent in 2013, she noted. According to De Lima, in the past 19 months since the Duterte administration has awarded licenses, more than 50 offshore gambling companies catering to overseas Chinese punters have received permits to operate in Manila, employing about 200,000 predominantly Chinese workers who have been arriving since late 2016. "The surge of AEP issuance means there is a number of available jobs in the Philippines, even while Filipinos continue to seek opportunities abroad and unemployment remains a concern," she said. De Lima also took note of reports that of the 1,508 foreigners deported by immigration authorities in 2017, 1,248 were Chinese nationals, most of whom were arrested at the Fontana Hotel in Clark, Pampanga for purportedly engaging in illegal online gaming operations. She also noted the arrest of 10 foreigners, mostly Chinese, who were caught in the act of operating a dredging vessel that was drawing lahar and black sand from Macolcol River in San Felipe, Zambales without permits from concerned government agencies. The former justice secretary said it is important to review the government's capability to enforce immigration and labor policies to promote mechanisms that will address labor constraints by improving Filipino competency and discontinuing those that are not good to national interest. "With the influx of Chinese nationals employed and residing in the Philippines, there is a dangerous possibility of the real estate market pricing out Filipinos out of their homes, especially in areas near businesses that heavily employs Chinese nationals, like casinos and resorts," she said. "There is also the danger of our economy being too dependent on Chinese tourists and clients where any change in policies by the China government could effectively stall, if not cripple, our local economy," she added.Press Release

June 3, 2018 De Lima receives prestigious AI award, vows to fight vs human rights abuses Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima's brother Vicente "Vicboy" de Lima II has accepted last night the "Most Distinguished Human Rights Defender" Award given to the Senator by the Amnesty International in its first-ever "Ignite Awards for Human Rights." In a ceremony at Luxent Hotel, Quezon City, De Lima's youngest brother received the prestigious award in recognition of the Senator's unwavering fight to defend human rights and for opposing the abuses under the government's bloody war on drugs. "As humbled and gratified as I am to receive this award, the real comfort that I could receive from it is in knowing that I am, by no means, alone in this fight. That there are many others and there are many more to come," she said. "So I call on my fellow human rights defenders, not just to keep on fighting for human rights, but to keep on igniting the fire of human rights in the hearts of others. For therein lies the true nature of what we are fighting for," she added. De Lima, who remains unjustly detained for more than a year now over obviously politically-motivated trumped-up illegal drug trade charges, sent her family members to receive the award for her because she cannot accept the trophy personally. Aside from Vicboy de Lima, other family members present at the ceremony include her brother Vicente "Nonoy", her sister, Caroline, and most especially, the Senator's special son, Israel. (For the full text of her Message, see the link: https://bit.ly/2LS82bu) The former chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights also vowed to continue fighting against human rights abuses in the country and protect the rights of the Filipino people, especially the powerless who are "easy targets" of the Duterte regime. "Our mission will never, in truth, be completed because the moment we stop fighting, the moment we believe our work is done and we let our guards down, is the moment that tyrants, authoritarians and abusers will certainly regain their foothold," she said. The Senator from Bicol said she hopes that she can inspire not only her colleagues but also the public to speak out against the injustices happening under Duterte's leadership and never be cowed by a looming tyrant. "The moment we let out fire die out is the moment we let darkness reign again. Let us, therefore, keep on igniting the fervor for defending human rights in the hearts of more and more people, and never let the fire die out from our own hearts," she said. "On a personal note, this award proves to me that this detention facility is not where my freedom is lost; but where liberty is defended and the rule of law will someday be regained," she added. A staunch critic of the administration's war on drugs, De Lima has earned the ire of the President for initiating a Senate investigation into the spate of extrajudicial killings in the country in July 2016, thereby raising global public awareness about human rights violations committed against suspected drug offenders. Despite her unjust detention, De Lima continues to reap awards and recognitions here and abroad as she is recognized by Foreign Policy magazine as one of the leading Global Thinkers for 2016 and 2017, by Time Magazine as one of 100 Most Influential People, one of the Icons, for 2017, by Fortune Magazine as 39th World's Greatest Leader, and by Amnesty International as one of the notable Women Human Rights Defenders in 2017, among others.Press Release

June 3, 2018 Dispatch from Crame No. 318:

Sen. Leila M. de Lima on the denial of a Mother's plea to be with her son in this special day, his graduation 6/3/18 In the 465 days that I have been detained thus far, di ko na mabilang ang mga pagkakataon na dinapuan ako ng lungkot. May mga panahon rin, lalo na noong unang mga buwan, na gabi-gabi ako napapaluha. There were countless nights that I cried myself to sleep, praying to God for the strength to endure. But, then, a new day comes and, in the bright light of the morning sun, my hope is renewed and I go about my day as usual: reading, working, writing, conversing with my visitors, feeding the stray cats, and, always, always, praying. And never, not a single time, did I find myself regretting the choices I've made that brought me here. I knew I did the right thing in not being intimidated by this regime into silence. But today, today is one of the saddest days of my most unjust detention. Today is the graduation of my son, Vincent Joshua, from law school. My son, whom I love and am very proud of. This is that day that we, as a family, and I as a parent, have been looking forward to for years now. And never did I imagine I wouldn't be able to be there with him, bearing witness to his triumph, and being what all mothers by definition are meant to be: the number one cheerleader and supporter of their child, as they achieve one of their lifelong dreams. To Vincent, I want to tell you, my son, that I am so happy and so proud of you. You have hurdled your law studies under challenging circumstances - as a family man, as a father to two very young children, the elder of whom has autism, as a very patient and loving younger brother to a special brother, and, not to mention, the silently suffering son to a controversial mother, who is now a victim of persecution. These are no ordinary circumstances. Law school, by itself, is no cakewalk. Lesser persons would have given up on their dreams, and taken the easier way out. But not you. You are made of sterner stuff. I am both humbled and proud of the man you have become. You and your kuya make me a stronger person. I've missed a lot in the last 15 months. But this is the closest I have ever come to owning up to regret. Because this is not about me, but about my child. It is a very tangible loss to both of us. One that can't be brought back, even when the time comes that I am vindicated and freed. This day will pass, and we will never have it back. In my 465 days here, I have done my best not to ask for special favors. Even for this, all I asked was to be accorded the same humanitarian consideration that was shown to other high-profile detainees, who were allowed to attend their children's graduation, their father's birthday celebration, etc. The unjustness and double standard is just too much to bear. And the reason given, that I am a flight risk, is so blatantly false that they might as well not have bothered to try to justify it at all. Ako na siguro ang pinakamalayo sa flight risk sa mga bilanggo dito. Ilang linggo bago ako nila kinasuhan at inaresto, umalis ako ng bansa. At kahit alam kong itutuloy nila ang maitim nilang balak na ipakulong ako, bumalik pa rin ako. Kusa at mapayapa akong sumuko nang ako ay ipaaresto. Yan ba ang "flight risk"? If there is anything at risk of flying away, it is my faith in the goodness of those in power. They who have the authority have forgotten their obligation to use it for good, for justice; and have become enamored with the power they have to play with people's lives. Pinaglalaruan nila ang buhay ko at ng pamilya ko. I guess I just have to accept the fact that this regime cannot be benevolent towards me, to put it very mildly. As I write this, I am almost ashamed to say that I am crying. Ashamed that my tears would be seen by my oppressors as some sign of weakness. That I would be bringing some pleasure to them knowing how much they have hurt me and my family. Pero tao lang ako. At kahit gaano katibay ang pagkatao ko, may hangganan din ang kakayanan kong pigilin ang damdamin at luha ko. I cry as much for myself, as a mother who missed her son's graduation, as I do for everyone who have known the pain of not being with their families on a daily basis and even on very special, once-in-a-lifetime occasions. I feel your pain and my heart aches just as yours do. I also cry for those who have known what it means that "no good deed goes unpunished." Truly, we have to endure the "punishment" of doing the right thing. But we must never forget that we also enjoy the best reward for it: a clear and guilt-free conscience. I might cry tonight, but I will slumber at peace with my God and my conscience. I wonder if those who are so petty and heartless as to deny a mother this small chance at being with her son can say the same thing.Iraq issues arrest warrant for Kurdish referendum leader



Kirkuk, Iraq, June 3 (AFP) Jun 03, 2018



Iraqi judicial authorities have issued an arrest warrant for a Kurdish politician at the centre of last year's failed independence bid, a source from within the provincial administration said Sunday.

Rebwar Talabani, head of the Kirkuk Provincial Council, was one of the architects of the September referendum in which an overwhelming majority backed independence for Iraqi Kurdistan.

The plebiscite was branded illegal by Baghdad, which in the wake of the vote sent troops into the disputed city of Kirkuk and retook territory in the oil-rich region.

A source from within the provincial administration, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the arrest warrant was issued for Talabani "hoisting the Kurdish flag on official buildings of Kirkuk and organising the referendum" in the disputed city.

Talabani is currently in Arbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, where he fled to last October as Iraqi troops arrived in Kirkuk.

There continue to be tensions between the majority Kurdish population, Arabs and Turkmens in Kirkuk province, north of Baghdad.

Authorities imposed a curfew last month after skirmishes broke out following the results of the May 12 national elections being announced.Gaborone (Botswana), June 2, 2018 (SPS) - The President of the Republic, Secretary-General of the Polisario Front, Brahim Ghali, has ended his three-day official visit to the Republic of Botswana.



The President of the Republic was bid farewell at the airport by the Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, after he paid an official visit to Botswana, during which he met with Botswana President, Vice-President, and President of the Parliament. He also visited the diamond mine and company in Gaborone.



The President of the Republic is accompanied by a delegation comprising Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohamed-Salem Ould Salek, Minister of Cooperation, Bulahi Mohamed-Fadel, Secretary of State for Documentation and Security, Brahim Mohamed-Mahmoud, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary for Angola and Namibia, Bah Dih Sheikh, Advisor to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malanin Lakhal, in addition to Soukeina Larbas and Aminatou Sweidat, from Office of the President of the Republic. (SPS)



062/SPS/TRALondon, June 3, 2018 (SPS) -The Western Sahara Resource Watch (WSRW) stressed that the Sahrawi peoples consent is indispensable in any a trade agreement between the European Union (EU) and Morocco.



Instead of seeking consent from the 'people' of Western Sahara as the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has asked, the EU has consulted Moroccan political bodies, and state companies that violate international law and defend the Moroccan occupation, said WSRW in a communique released recently.



The EJC on 21 December 2016 ruled that the EU trade deals with Morocco cannot include Western Sahara, which is under partial Moroccan occupation, said the source.



The only way to have agreements covering Western Sahara, is through obtaining the consent of the people of the territory, the Court stipulated.



WSRW affirmed that it obtained the confidential list of the actors consulted by the European External Action Service (EEAS).



Several organizations contacted by the EU for this purpose refused to be involved in an agreement that would include Western Sahara occupied by Morocco.



According to the confidential list published by WSRW, the organizations that refused to participate in these consultations include the Sahrawi Association of Victims of Human Rights Violations (ASVDH), Al Ghad Association for Human Rights, Western Sahara Campaign (WSC -UK), Independent Diplomat and WSRW.



WSRW said it was surprised to see its own name in the list of associations that had rejected taking part in a consultation process, as our association has never been invited to such process. WSRW was indeed invited to an "informal meeting."



Instead of applying the notion of consent, as the Court stresses, the Commission has undertaken a consultation. On top of that, the entire concept of the 'people' of the territory is replaced with the concept of population, denounced the WSRW.



The general framework of a new agreement was initialed with Morocco without any contacts with the people from Western Sahara. That happened on 31 January 2018, after the Commission had briefed the Parliament few days earlier that it had not yet undertaken such talks, recalled the source.



Only groups that have been registered by the Moroccan government were invited to take part, which immediately rules out practically all Saharawi groups in the occupied territory - bar two who have received some form of registration in 2015 after Morocco had received severe criticism for not registering Saharawi groups in the UN Human Rights Council, said WSRW. (SPS)



062/SPS/APSNew York, June 3, 2018 (SPS) - The Polisario Front called Saturday the Security Council, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres and his personal envoy Horst Kohler to organize direct negotiations between the parties of the Sahrawi conflict, Morocco and Western Sahara, as soon as possible and in accordance with the last resolution 2414, reiterating its full willingness to start direct talks, without prerequisites, with Rabat that would enable the Sahrawi people to exercise their right to self-determination.



In a letter sent by the representation of the Polisario Front to the United Nations, to head of the Security Council, whose rotating presidency is ensured by ambassador and permanent representative of Russia Vassily Nebenzia, the Polisario Front reiterated its full willingness to start direct talks, without prerequisites, with Morocco that would enable the Sahrawi people to exercise their inalienable right to self-determination, in accordance with the resolution 2414 of the Security Council, adopted on 27 April 2018.



The Polisario Front considered, in its letter sent to the Security Council, that the resolution 2412 was a strong signal and a glimmer of hope for the Sahrawi people to see the Security Council fully assuming its responsibilities in the decolonization process of Western Sahara, Africas last colony.



In this regard, the Polisario Front said that the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) by six months, whose main mission is to ensure the organization of a referendum on self-determination in cooperation with the African Union, is in itself a positive point.



The Polisario Front, which reiterated its full and ongoing commitment to the resolutions taken by the Security Council relating to Western Sahara, including the resolution 2414 approved by the Security Council on 27 April 2018, renewed its willingness to fully cooperate with the efforts of the UN Secretary General and his personal envoy. (SPS)



062/SPS/APSAs we are talking about very serious fundamental issues of human rights, we will not replace Mr. Nyeahu Nyeahu with Mr. Wattala Boar ( Wattala Uura   )



[caption id="attachment_51105" align="aligncenter" width="787"] The bottom line is that his pathetic attempt at a statement shows the world that he has no courage, no dignity and no credibility to face the truth. What a sad affair.

One more of Mr. Nyeahu Nyeahus tactics is not merely to send these slanderous material (sic) to persons directly concerned but to everyone possible. Suppose, in an organization one person is in charge of dealing with a particular organization; then Mr. Nyeahu Nyeahu would not send his slanderous emails to that person alone but to everyone engaged in the administration from the managing directors to auditors and to everyone else; howsoever long the list may be.

***

In what can only be described as a puerile attempt, Mr. Basil Fernando, Director, Policies and Programmes published a statement attacking Nilantha Ilangamuwa, one of the founding editors of the Sri Lanka Guardian on June 1, 2018. It wasn't the first time, and may not be the last.We will never lower ourselves to the point to which this so-called human rights defender has crept, by digging up all personal issues. He knows full well, as do others who he really is and how he has ripped off people off to gain personal advantages. This character is best exemplified as Comrade Napoleon, a fictional character and the main antagonist in George Orwell's Animal Farm.The bottom line is that his pathetic attempt at a statement shows the world that he has no courage, no dignity and no credibility to face the truth. What a sad affair. By seeing this sort of childish move no one can deny that even dictators such as Pol Pot had more in the way of redeeming features that this than crude version of a human being.However, the Sri Lanka Guardian is standing by everything we have published about selected people working in the Asian Human Rights Commission and Asian Legal Resource Centre, who, we believe, has no moral authority to work in the field of human rights and spending the hard-earned taxpayers money provided by the foreign funding agencies. They must be held accountable for the havoc they have done upon the innocent lives that trusted them.There is no need for Fernando to be in the situation he now resides in. All that is needed is the courage to face the truth and stop defending alleged perpetrators. He no needs to do this and the best way to prove himself is to answer the 17 questions we posted many months ago . Instead of doing so he has concentrated on finding ways to hide his dirtiness while talking in abstracts and nonsense. Talking about repetition and strategies of spreading slanders is nothing more than that described in, " On Bullshit ", by the philosopher Harry G. Frankfurt, an essay that presents a theory of bullshit that defines the concept and analyzes the applications of bullshit in the contexts of communication. This is a book that Fernando has read, over and over again.We would like to reiterate the fact that we are standing for what we have exposed and we strongly believe the subjects in our expose must be held accountable. The simple question is, how can a man hold the top position in a human rights organisation if he has harassed women who served under him? Do you need to know more; if yes; then read our 17 questions again Unlike Fernando, we have no personal issues with anybody but we are fighting for the fundamental principles of human rights ethics and norms, which, we believe, Fernando and his bedfellow, who is now serving as the Executive Director of this NGO, must be held accountable.He talks about complaints before the authorities made by Mr. Nyeahu Nyeahu but he himself has made numerous complaints against ex-employees based on fabricated charges.However, we find the article by Fernando was so badly written and it was obvious that no editor had ever laid eyes on it. It was the childish comments that make it so deplorable. Not since his school days has the author seen such nonsense. Fernando refers to Ilangumuwa as Mr. Nyeahu Nyeahu. This is reminiscent of the authors primary school days when children referred to a student they didnt like as Mr. Poo-Poo Head. As we are talking about very serious fundamental issues of human rights, we will not replace Mr. Nyeahu Nyeahu with Mr. Wattala Boar ( Wattala Uura   ).Fernando goes on to blame Ilangamuwa for every bad thing that has befallen the AHRC since that gentleman was unfairly dismissed by Fernando himself. But, Mr. Ilangamuwa never talks about this unfair termination of the employment in the public domain, despite Fernando who bragged about the damage caused to the lives of the people that trusted him.The truth of the matter is that Ilangamuwa presented Fernando with information which he would have preferred not to have been made public. Fernando was given numerous opportunities to present his position but quite arrogantly chose to remain silent, believing himself to be indestructible. Fernando only has himself to blame for the present situation of the AHRC, an NGO which is rapidly losing credibility and respect among the International human rights community.Fernando refers to Sri Lanka Guardians reports as slanderous but he has never taken the opportunity to refute any of the comments. And again, the result is that Fernando only has himself to blame for the situation and writing puerile statements against his detractors simply reveals his failings.In a further, very strange situation, Fernandos daughter, Jessica, has attacked another past employee of the AHRC. In several emails, she accused John Sloan, of attempting to extort another employee and also claiming bankruptcy to avoid a judgement debt. The following are excerpts from emails received by Sloan from Jessica Fernando.and even when you started trying to extort yet another unfortunate employer, Basil defended you, saying you were going through a hard time. And,When you made yourself bankrupt to avoid a judgment debt, and when your wonderful wife was very sick, some strangers stepped in to help you.Sloan contacted Jessica Fernando demanding an apology and she very quickly back-pedalled, claiming that she had misunderstood the real situation (which was obviously presented to her by Basil). She also claimed that she had made these comments in a moment of stress caused by the death of a family friend.It is a very sad situation indeed, when a previously highly respected human rights figure such as Fernando, the winner of numerous awards including the Right Livelihood Award, lowers himself to making such statements. Previously, Fernando accused Sloan of looking forward to the day that the AHRC is no more. However, the downfall of the AHRC, when it occurs will be entirely Fernandos doing.We have done our part, now it is time people like Fernando to face the truth. Yes, in most of the scenarios, as Pope Francis noted, the truth will set you free. But there are some instances, especially in post-truth era, the truth will shock you and expose to the world who you really are.Mr. Fernando, why so much ado, when the truth is out there!English03/06/2018

SRNA News Roundup /III/ - June 3, 2018





REPUBLIKA SRPSKA



STANARI  The Republika Srpska Minister of Labor and Veterans Affairs, Milenko Savanovic, has said that digital workerscards will be introduced by the end of the year in order to prevent employers from falsely reporting workers, and to oblige them to meet their financial obligations.



VICENZA  The Republika Srpska Minister of Labor and Social Welfare, Dragan Bogdanic, told representatives of the Serbian community in Vicenza that the Republika Srpska Government will do what it takes to improve relations between the homeland and the Diaspora in Italy.





FEDERATION OF BiH



TRNOVO  The 26th anniversary of the massacre of Serbian civilians, committed by members of the so-called Army of BiH, was marked today in the village of Ledici, Federal Trnovo Municipality.





REGION



KARLOVAC  A Serbian citizen, N.M. /59/, of Nis, suspected of smuggling migrants and the attempted murder of a police officer, was ordered detained for one month in a prison in Karlovac. /end/sgFirst proposed back in 2006, an American firm has finally put together a lightweight, vehicle based system, using the 70mm APKWS II (Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System) laser guided missile. Called Fletcher, it consists of a four tube launcher weighing 13.6 kg (30 pounds) empty. The launcher is two meters (78 inches) long and 30cm x 30cm (11.8 inches). Fletcher uses one of the smaller (lighter) rocket motors and warheads, thus each APKWS used by Fletcher weighs 11.3 kg (25 pounds). A Fletcher launcher with rockets weighs 59 kg (130 pounds). The compact and lightweight Fletcher launcher can be mounted on any vehicle that normally mounts a heavy (12.7mm) machine-gun or RWS (Remote Weapons Station). Current versions of Fletcher are being marketed to special operations forces that use many lighter off-road vehicles. For example, DAGOR is a two ton light truck that can carry 1.4 tons or nine troops. It can be carried inside a CH-47 or slung under a UH-60 helicopter. DAGOR can also be dropped via parachute and be ready to roll within two minutes of reaching the ground. Vehicles like DAGOR and even lighter ATVs (all terrain vehicles) are popular with special operations troops and Fletcher was designed to provide these forces as well as regular infantry with lightweight laser guided missile systems,

Adapting aircraft weapons is not unusual. The United States has adapted heat seeking (Sidewinder) and radar guided (AMRAAM) air-to-air missiles for use on anti-aircraft ground vehicles. It is rare to adapt air-to-ground missiles for use on ground vehicles.

APKWS are basically 70mm laser guided rockets. Normally each APKWS weighs 15 kg (32 pounds) and is basically a 70mm unguided rocket with a warhead and guidance system attached. The guidance system consists of a laser seeker and moveable fins, battery and microprocessor to guide the rocket to the reflected laser light the laser designator is bouncing off the target. These missiles usually have a 2.7 kg (six pound) warhead, and a range of about five kilometers when fired from the ground (and about twice that when fired from the air).

APKWS has always been able to use laser designators on a helicopter, or with troops on the ground. The laser seeker can actually see reflected laser light out to 14 kilometers but the rocket motor in most 70mm laser guided rockets is only effective at between five and ten kilometers. Fletcher can use slightly heavier APKWS rockets that have a longer range but that wont happen until users indicate a need for it.

Adding laser guidance to 70mm rockets seemed like an obvious concept but it took many years to develop a reliable system. The 2.75 inch (70mm) rockets were developed during World War II, as an air-to-air weapon for use against heavy bomber formations. The Germans had developed a similar and very successful weapon (the R4M). Before long it was noted that neither the Japanese nor the Germans had any heavy bombers, so the U.S. 70mm rocket was switched to air-to-ground use. Actually, the 70mm rocket was retained for air-to-air use into the 1950s, but it was never successful in that role. The 70mm rocket became very popular in the 1960s when it was discovered that the weapon worked very well when launched from multiple (7 or 19 tube) launchers mounted on helicopters. The 108-138m cm (42-55 inch) long rockets could be fired singly or in salvoes and gave helicopter pilots some airborne artillery for supporting troops on the ground. There are many variations in terms of warheads and rocket motors. Some versions could go over 10 kilometers.

Since the 1990s several firms have spent years to figure out how to turn 70mm (2.75 inch) unguided rockets into laser guided missiles. Most were designed to use existing the Hellfire missile fire control system. Several successful designs entered service by 2010. The APKWS began as a 2002 effort by an American firm, which could not get it to work. British firm BAE took it over and got it to work by 2007 and partnered with the American firm to sell it. APKWS, like its competitors, was built to be compatible with existing laser designators, and aircraft equipped to use Hellfire missiles. For helicopters, APKWS could also be adapted to use 7 or 19 tube launchers long employed for the unguided rockets. The big advantage of all these 70mm missiles is that it is one fourth the weight of a Hellfire, and one fourth the cost. That means AH-64s burn less fuel carrying them, and APKWS is as effective as a Hellfire in, for example, destroying the hundreds of small armed boats Iran plans to use in any war with the Arab states on the west coast of the Persian Gulf. But there are already many similar weapons available for this and few nations want to add what they consider a redundant weapon system.

This weight advantage made ground use attractive for specialized troops, like Special Forces. But before anyone would even consider a ground-t0-ground 70mm guided missile there had to be evidence that the air-to-ground version worked. The 70mm missiles eventually found some customers. In 2010 the U.S. Marine Corps tested APKWS II on their helicopter gunships and were so impressed that they bought many more. The marines armed their AH-1W helicopter gunships with the guided 70mm rockets and in 2012 marine AH-1Ws have fired over a hundred APKWS II in Afghanistan and none of them missed.

APKWS was adapted for use from a number of helicopters as well as fixed wing aircraft like the A-10, F-16, AV-8B, CN-235 gunship and A-29. APKWS has been exported to Iraq, Lebanon and Jordan and was used in 2017-18 in the fight against ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) in Iraq. There are now a growing number of 70mm air-to-surface and surface-to-surface versions in production or development.

Fletcher, for example, wont be shipping until late 2018 or early 2019. Developing a guided 70mm rocket took so long because the manufacturers underestimated the technical difficulties of getting the laser seeker and flight control mechanisms into that small a package, at a weight and price the customer could afford. The price of the new 70mm missile is now about $30,000 each. This is typical for these weapons and about a third less than a smart bomb and less than a third of what a Hellfire missile costs. Tests have shown that the ground based 70mm missile is reliable, thanks to over a decade of development and combat use of the air-to-ground version.

In tests the APKWS hit within a meter (a few feet) of the aiming point and has proved an excellent weapon for UAVs, especially since you can carry more of them. The launcher for carrying these missiles is designed to replace the one for Hellfire but can carry four missiles instead of one. UAVs can carry more of the smaller missiles, typically two of them in place of one Hellfire. It was work on this lightweight APKWS launcher and associated equipment that made it easier to design and build Fletcher.ATLANTIC OCEAN (May 28, 2018) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) launches a Standard Missile 2 (SM-2) in the Virginia Capes operating area as part of an exercise to test the ship's ability to defend against a close-in aerial attack. The Sullivans deployed with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of NATO allies, European, and Africa partner nations, coalition partners, and U.S. national security interest in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo)

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Each month we count on your subscriptions or contributions. You can support us in the following ways:IGAD (the East African Inter-Governmental Authority on Development) South Sudan ceasefire monitors made public more of their monitoring reports. These reports cover incidents since February. The December 2017 ceasefire, which IGAD helped arrange, included monitoring teams that were supposed to release their reports within a month of incidents being investigated. Protests from the government and rebels about the accuracy of these reports led to public release being suspended in February. The monitors continued to work, despite growing interference from soldiers and, to a lesser extent, rebels. IGAD examined the monitoring effort and found nothing wrong and this led to more reports being released. The newly released reports show that ceasefire violations continue to occur, mainly by the army. Attacks against civilians also continue, mainly by soldiers but also by rebels. This includes firing at civilians as well as using fists, edged weapons and fire. There is also a lot of rape and looting plus recruiting teenagers to fight. Both sides proclaim their innocence and blame the monitors for being partisan or simply unfair. What the monitor reports describe is confirmed by eyewitness accounts of civilians and foreign aid workers.

May 28, 2018: In central South Sudan (Western Lakes State) an army colonel was killed during a gun battle with cattle thieves. This sort of violence is common in this area because of long-standing animosity between two Dinka clans (Rup and Pakam). The violence picked up in late 2017 and despite the civil war. The Dinka tribesmen were mainly fighting over cattle and land rights. These disputes are common with the tribes in Sudan and South Sudan and regularly occur in Sudan as well. Western Lakes State is about 250 kilometers northwest of Juba, South Sudan's capital. These tribal clashes also occur in refugee camps outside South Sudan and sometimes result in deaths.

In South Sudan leaders of another rebel faction (SSUF/A) came to the capital to accept government jobs. This was the result of SSUF/A signing a peace deal on the 21st. The rebels insist that those who signed the peace deal were not really members of SSUF/A.

May 27, 2018: The UN Security Council imposed political and financial sanctions on South Sudans defense minister, Kuol Manyang Juk. The Security Council determined Juk was responsible for ceasefire violations, failure to protect civilians and for denying humanitarian organizations adequate access to people in need. The UN also said that Juk had conspired to have Sudanese SPLM-N rebels enter South Sudan and attack a South Sudanese rebel base in the town of Pagak. The SPLM-N is fighting the Sudan government in Sudans Blue Nile and South Kordofan states. The UN also imposed sanctions on South Sudan cabinet member Elia Lomoro for obstructing humanitarian assistance operations and physically threatening journalists operating in the country who are critical of the South Sudanese civil war. The Security Council also accused Lomoro of attempting to obstruct UN peacekeeping operations. The UN also sanctioned rebel leader General Koang Rambang Cho for conducting an attack in Bieh state with the goal of stopping a humanitarian aid mission.

May 26, 2018: Ethiopian security personnel intercepted a weapons smuggling attempt from Sudan. They seized thousands of rounds of ammunition and 116 weapons.

May 24, 2018: In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, IGAD negotiators have suspended their latest attempt to revive South Sudans August 2015 peace deal. The government and rebels remain very far apart.

The Sudan government announced that its military forces will continue to participate in the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Iran backed Shia rebels in Yemen. Sudan has about 3,000 soldiers in Yemen as well as several jet fighters.

May 23, 2018: Sudan denied Eritrean accusations that it is supporting armed anti-Eritrean rebels. Eritrea recently claimed that Sudan was coordinating its support for Eritrean rebels with Eritreas greatest enemy, Ethiopia. Sudan also denies that accusation.

May 22, 2018: The South Sudan rebels rejected a power-sharing proposal with the South Sudan government. Mediators from IGAD had backed the proposal. However, the rebels contended the proposal gave the government too much power. Sporadic fighting continues throughout South Sudan. Was this lose-lose? Maybe not. In the last week, it appears the government has suffered more political setbacks than the rebels. The UN has imposed new individual sanctions on key government officials. Yes, a rebel official was also sanctioned. However, the U.S. is publicly mulling imposing new sanctions on the government. The UN sanctions on senior government officials and the U.S. threats mean the South Sudan government is under more pressure than the rebels. In the last six weeks, several African media sources have begun referring to the government as the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement In Government (SPLM-IG) which portrays the situation as more of a civil war than a rebellion. That looks like an information warfare win for the rebels. (Austin Bay)

May 21, 2018: In Sudan, foreign aid groups claim that the governments Rapid Support Force (RSF) militia launched an attack on a displaced persons camp in western Sudan (Central Darfur state). The RSF fighters attacked the camp supported by five technical vehicles (trucks armed with machine guns).

May 19, 2018: UN and East African diplomats reported that fractionalization is increasing among South Sudan rebel groups in the former Upper Nile state and the Equatoria states (Amadi, Gbudwe, Imatong, Jubek, Maridi, Namorunyang, Terekeka and Yei River states). There are also reports of forced conscription in South Sudan, by both the government and the rebels.

May 17, 2018: The UN ordered an additional 150 peacekeepers to northern South Sudan (Unity state) with the mission of protecting civilians trapped between government and rebel forces.

In southern South Sudan (Yei River state) foreign aid workers report that gunmen attacked Emmanuel Christian College and killed ten people, including five students. The attackers plundered the school and raped a young woman.

May 16, 2018: Sudan accepted delivery of six Chinese FTC2000 jet trainer/light attack aircraft. FTC2000 is the export version of the JL-9 trainer used by Chinese forces.

Sudan, Egypt and Ethiopia agreed to create a scientific committee to study the potential effects on the Nile River or Ethiopias $4-billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

May 14, 2018: The UN now classifies 7.1 million people in Sudan as vulnerable. That classification means these people are no longer completely dependent on humanitarian assistance, but their situation remains marginal. If conditions deteriorate even slightly they will once again become dependent on international food and medical assistance. The UN attributes the slight improvement to better security conditions in Sudans Blue Nile and South Kordofan states and in the Darfur region.

May 13, 2018: Kenya said that it is still hesitant to impose new sanctions on South Sudan. Kenyan leaders want IGAD to have every opportunity to negotiate a new peace deal in South Sudan and they fear new sanctions will hinder IGAD.

May 9, 2018: Sudan rejected Egyptian accusations that it had undermined recent negotiations regarding Nile River water rights and Ethiopias GERD.

May 7, 2018: South Sudans first vice-president, Taban Deng Gai, announced that his political faction would formally join the government. Gai had been a senior figure in the main rebel coalition (SPLM-IO).

May 6, 2018: In Sudan widespread dissent continues with the jump in fuel prices a major issue. The fuel crisis began to bite in early March as fuel supplies plummeted. The cause is complex. A lack of refinery capacity is one reason. The government also lowered fuel subsidies. The government is reportedly negotiating a deal with Saudi Arabia to sell Sudan oil at discounted prices for five years. Sudan has soldiers fighting with the Saudi coalition in Yemen.

May 4, 2018: Sudan accused South Sudan rebels of attacking a town in eastern Sudan (Latjoor state) and violating the cessation of hostilities agreement negotiated to keep the oil producing areas safe.

May 1, 2018: There are reports that the Russian Wagner Group of military contractors will establish a training facility in Sudan. The company will provide training for presidential security personnel.

April 30, 2018: Ten aid workers abducted in southern South Sudan (Yei River state) last week have been released. They were kidnapped in the town of Yei on April 25.

April 25, 2018: President Salva Kiir of South Sudan rejected political opposition demands that he resign. The opposition contends Kiir himself is an obstacle to peace.John Russell from Techcrunch :  the Facebook ban  however delicious it may sound given recent events  is not confirmed for Papua New Guinea. It remains a possibility once Basil has liaised with police.

Matt Novak from Gizmodo wrote : The (PNG) government also said that its exploring the creation of its own social media site to replace Facebook.

The country doesnt usually make it into the tech pages of websites, but it has:

What gave this statement its legitimacy was its publication in one of Papua New Guineas two dailies  the Post-Courier. The online version of the story has been quoted numerous times and became the top story out of Papua New Guinea.

LAE - Maybe it was a slip of the tongue or a misinterpreted statement. But there is no doubt whatever it was Papua New Guineas minister responsible for communications and information technology (ICT) Sam Basil last week created a storm domestically and in the global media.

The suggestion to shut down Facebook is dangerous on many levels.

Firstly, it places PNG on the back foot. It is a highly embarrassing position to be in as members of APEC discuss the regions economic future with e-commerce and social media being a pivotal focus of the talks.

Any shutdown of Facebook for any length of time is contrary to the spirit of the discussions where wider access to ICT forms the basis of future economic policies.

In Papua New Guinea, small businesses are starting to thrive. Their main avenue to sell to a wider customer base? Facebook. Not websites. Website developers charge a minimum of K2,500 for a basic site. Too big an amount for small businesses.

Not one to mince his words, the director of the Institute of National Affairs, Paul Barker, told The Fiji Times:

It would be a travesty if PNG sought to close down Facebook during the APEC month [in November], making PNG seem rather foolish, as it would be both an attack on embracing technology, undermining the information era and mechanisms for accountability, but also damaging business and welfare. Facebook is no longer just a platform for chatting to friends and relatives, and exchanging photos, its now a critical tool for information sharing and social auditing, and also a major platform for business, especially micro, small to medium enterprises.

In Lae city, where I live, Facebook is a primary means of reporting crimes to the police. The Lae police metropolitan command has a Facebook page linked to its crime reporting systems and toll free number. It is an integral part of policing.

In PNG, Facebook has also become the primary disaster reporting tool used by rural communities. In February, when the Highlands was struck by a 7.5 magnitude earthquake, the first pictures of the damage and deaths were posted on Facebook.

Yet it took at least two weeks before the national disaster centre began collating information that was readily available within 20 minutes of the disaster.

It is good that this debate is happening now instead of later.Deepal returns with his Leadership Code sessions View(s):

What makes a great leader? Dave Ulrich, Norm Smallwood, and Kate Sweetman set out to answer this question- to crack the code of leadership, says local peoples development guru Deepal Sooriyaarachchi

He said the authors, drawing on decades of research experience, conducted extensive interviews with the thought leaders in this field- and heard the same five essentials repeated again and again. These five rules became the Leadership Code.

Now Mr. Sooriyaarachchi, a sought after people-developer and business professional, a consulting partner of RBL Group USA, harnessing the Asian Wisdom and the Cutting Edge Thinking of the Leadership Code, is delivering a unique Leadership Development Programme in association with Inspireone on June 22-23 and July 6-7 .

In a media release, he said this is the third public presentation of the Leadership Academy.

The five rules of the Leadership Code:

(1) Leaders must invest in themselves to be personally proficient. Effective leaders manage their physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual selves well. They learn constantly. They are capable of quick, bold actions as well as great patience. They constantly deepen their insight about themselves. This is especially true in tough economic times when people look to their leaders for hope.

(2) Good leaders know how to be strategists and are able to answer the question Where are we going?. They test their big ideas pragmatically, and they work with others to find the path, from the present to the desired future; (3) Effective leaders are executors. They ask: How will we ensure that we reach our goal? They understand how to make change happen, assign accountability, delegate appropriately, and make sure that teams work well together; (4) These leaders are talent managers and engage people to get things done now and in a manner that generates intense personal, professional, and organisational loyalty. They help people bring their best to the job at hand; (5) Finally, they are human capital developers who build the next generation. They make sure that the organization has the longer-term skills, knowledge, behaviours and attitudes for future strategic success.

The programme ,Mr. Sooriyaarachchi, a former Managing Director of AVIVANDB Insurance (AIA) and currently serving on a number of boards, will deliver is based on the above five core attributes of leadership.EH commissions one of Asias most modern ice cream factories Aerial view of the factory View(s): View(s):

Situated at the Seethawaka BOI zone, at Avissawella, this factory with the added capacity it brings will lead to a doubling of Elephant Houses existing ice cream production volume. Also, it facilitates Elephant House enhancing its portfolio of products, the company said in a media release.

This ice cream factory is operated by The Colombo Ice Company Pvt Ltd., a fully owned subsidiary of Ceylon Cold Stores PLC.

Jit Gunaratne, President  Consumer Foods Sector, John Keells Group, said, We at Elephant House are pleased to begin operations at this state-of-the-art, world-class facility, where we broke ground just 15 months ago. We are thrilled to be setting new standards for the local sector, while moving into our next stage of growth.Ministries barred from purchasing new vehicles By Bandula Sirimanna View(s): View(s):

Government ministers have been directed not to purchase new vehicles to Ministries or for their official use as the Treasury has to handle new expenditure costs like compensation for flood victims and damages to their property running into billions of rupees, official sources said.

At Wednesdays cabinet meeting, ministers were urged not to buy new vehicles as the country is suffering from damages caused to people and property in the recent floods.

The Cabinet has already approved several supplementary estimates running up to billions of rupees to import vehicles for several Ministries.

A supplementary estimate amounting to Rs.360 million to purchase vehicles for the Ministries of Defence, Finance, Rural Economy Deputy Minister and the Development Strategies and International Trade Minister was taken up for debate in Parliament recently.

The government allocates each cabinet, deputy and state minister with an official vehicle and two other vehicles as well as a vehicle permit. In addition, vehicles are also provided to the personal secretary, media secretary, the two coordinating secretaries and public relations officer of every minister.

Cabinet also approved a request to increase the maximum price of a vehicle by Rs. 8 million and provide funds for only one vehicle for a cabinet, state or deputy minister this year. The government had sought Parliamentary approval for another supplementary estimate to spend Rs.288.2 million to purchase vehicles for several ministers, deputy ministers and state ministers.

Meanwhile details pertaining 90 MPs transferring the ownership of vehicles imported by them under the tax free car permit scheme have been revealed. According to official data, those MPs had received tax exceptions amounting to over Rs. 30 million (each).

An MP is given a vehicle permit to import a vehicle with a value not exceeding US$62,500 (Rs. 10 million) and many of them used it to sell the vehicle permit. A tax relief of around Rs. 3.3 million will be given for an MP importing a Toyota Land Cruiser. In this vehicle permit transaction they earn around Rs. 30 million.

Many MPs sell the document with the permit while others import the vehicle, get it registered in their names and sell it to other parties causing a loss of around Rs. 3.3 million to the Treasury. At present MPs advertise their vehicle in websites and have started selling them, official sources said.

Re-introduction of the concessionary duty schemes on import of motor vehicles has negatively impacted on the government revenue, Treasury sources said. However Excise duty on motor vehicles increased by 8 per cent to Rs. 129.5 billion in 2017 due to increased vehicles imports by 2.1 per cent to 298,182 coupled with increased unit rates of excise duty rates on motor vehicles along with the government policy towards discouraging high emission vehicle imports.Ramachandran turns down SEC appointment By Duruthu Edirimuni Chandrasekera View(s): View(s):

The Ministry of Finance has accepted a letter by Chandrakumar Ramachandran turning down an appointment to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ministry officials said.

He was amongst the newly appointed five Commissioners to the SEC board. In his letter he has expressed his inability to accept the responsibilities that come with this appointment as his workload prohibits him to do so.

However the Business Times reliably understands that the SEC had probed information on certain incidents nearly two decades ago concerning Mr. Ramachandran.

Following which the newly appointed Chairman, Ranel T. Wijesinha in discussion with the Ministry officials had taken this matter up with Mr. Ramachandran last week. Mr. Ramachandrans letter had come to the Ministry on Thursday.

The other commissioners appointed to the SEC are Jayantha Fernando, Arjuna Herath, Rajeev Amarasuriya and Manjula de Silva. The Ministry will announce a replacement for Mr Ramachandran this week. The SEC was without a chairman and a commission since January 25 when the last term of the Commission led by Thilak Karunaratne ended.A sad look back View(s):

Maduluwave Sobhitha hamuduruwaney,

I thought I must write to you even though you have departed this world. Your untimely demise left those of us in Paradise in despair. While we are sure you must be in a better place than Paradise, I feel it is my duty to let you know of the many words spoken by those who still wish to invoke your name.

You will recall the great service you did in the last year of your life in Paradise. It is no exaggeration to say that it was you who single-handedly pursued the idea of a common candidate. That was a time when King Mahinda was considered invincible and no one dared to cross his  or his brothers  path.

Thanks to your efforts, we ousted King Mahinda and installed King Maithri on our throne. Little did we know at that time what we were letting ourselves in for. We had a taste of that this week, at an event held to mark your birthday. There, King Maithri lashed out at everyone, madu waligey style.

At the time you  and a few others  chose King Maithri as the common candidate, we thought he was an uncommon man: a man who had a clean track record despite decades in politics, a man who was simple in his ways, a man who was not greedy for power, and a man who would keep his promises.

Yet, hearing King Maithri speak out at your commemoration last week, hamuduruwaney, you wonder whether it is the same person you  and more than six million others in Paradise  chose to be their new King. Whats more, he still claims he is following in the path you charted for yahapaalanaya!

King Maithri asked whether it was your idea, hamuduruwaney, to rob the Central Bank. Ravi was in the audience in the front row and I am not sure how comfortable he was, listening to that. Getting to the bottom of the bond scam is one thing that King Maithri did right and we do admire him for that.

However, because King Maithri asked whether it was your idea to rob the Central Bank, hamuduruwaney, we have a few questions to ask him as he seemed to suggest that he is still following your principles. Had you been with us, I am sure you would have asked those questions too.

For example, was it your idea, hamuduruwaney, to retain the Executive Presidency and for King Maithri to run for that office again? If my memory serves me right, quite the opposite was true: candidate Maithri promised to abolish that office and promised never to run for that job ever again.

After he became King Maithri, he solemnly pledged to keep that promise, not once but thrice. He did so on the day that he took his oaths, then he repeated those words at the Dalada Maligawa a few days later and said so again standing beside your mortal remains at your funeral, hamuduruwaney.

King Maithri then tells us that the one hundred day programme that was promised was a stupid plan and that he doesnt know whose idea it was. Well, it takes pride of place in his manifesto. So, it looks like he hasnt read his own manifesto  and that is not worthy of a grama sevaka, let alone a President!

Hamuduruwaney, it was not your idea that King Maithri should run again for the top job, was it? Surely, it was also not your idea that he shouldnt be retiring from politics in two years time. And I know you didnt want him to write to the Supreme Court asking to stay for six years instead of five!

King Maithri is now also trying to justify not dissolving Parliament soon after his election, saying constitutional changes were possible only because of that. What he is not saying is that, had he dissolved Parliament sooner, the Greens would have probably got a comfortable majority!

It was also not your idea, hamuduruwaney, to get candidates who were sent home by the people back in to Parliament through the back door called the National List. You were with us then and you let your displeasure be known at the time, but King Maithri hardly took any notice, did he?

King Maithri is angry because events in Paradise are being compared to Malaysia, where Mahathir cracked down hard on the previous corrupt regime. While King Maithri set up a commission to probe the big bank bond deal, he has done nothing like that to probe other deals like the MIG deal, has he?

King Maithri is also complaining now  many years later  that helicopters were given to defeated King Mahinda by the Green Man to travel to Medamulana. Well, he was the boss, so he could have stopped it if he wanted to, although I dont see anything wrong in allowing King Mahinda to leave with dignity!

So, hamuduruwaney, I think your dream of abolishing the Executive Presidency will remain just that  a dream. The rathu sahodarayas are sponsoring a motion for this but King Maithri and King Mahinda both oppose it, and even if the Green Man supports it, it will be because he feels he cant win  yet again!

Awasarai, hamuduruwaney,

Punchi Putha

PS  There is no doubt that your untimely departure was our nations loss, but dare I say this? It maybe best that you are no more with us. Had you been with us still, you would have been so disappointed with King Maithri, the Green Man and the rest for promising so much  and delivering so little!Bond 118 does not exist, but many politicians received money from Aloysius View(s):

There is bad news for those awaiting the disclosure of a list containing 118 names of politicians and others who allegedly received funds from those linked to the Central Bank bond scandal.The reason  there is no list containing such names. However, that would not mean some more names would not transpire. They are to surface before court soon.

At a news conference, former Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera had made the claim that the list of 118 names existed and had been redacted from the report of the Commission of Inquiry that probed the bond scam. He made the claim in the wake of disclosures that he had himself received one million rupees from Walt & Rowe, a company associated with Arjun Aloysius, who is now in remand custody over the Central Bank bond scam.

Mr. Jayasekera hurriedly summoned the news conference after his name was listed in a B Report submitted to the Magistrates Court, giving the latest developments on investigations. Claiming that he received the moneys for the parliamentary election campaign in 2015, Mr. Jayasekera said there were 118 more names in a list. This had reportedly been redacted besides the names in view of references to sensitive material.

The Sunday Times learnt that Presidential Secretary Austin Fernando spoke with Bond Commission Chairman Justice K.T. Chitrasiri to inquire about the purported list. He was told that there was no such list in the Commissions official report. This has prompted Mr. Fernando to issue a statement saying there was no list.

Mr. Fernando has now recalled all documentation sent from the Presidential Secretariat to the Department of National Archives. He has sought the advice of the Attorney General on whether the full report, together with the redactions, could be released. In the light of the confusion caused by the claimed existence of a list with 118 names, several politicians have begun making statements that they did not receive any funds.

The Sunday Times also learnt that names of those who received money are being recovered from bank records and other documents obtained by Criminal Investigation Department (CID) detectives. The amounts have been varying from small sums to large ones, depending on the importance of the person, a CID source said. Minister Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka admitted at a news conference on Monday that he had received Rs 100,000 from Mr. Aloysius. One more case of an ambitious state minister, a strong advocate to defend the bond scam, has now surfaced. It is expected to transpire in court anytime now. This politician in question is one who has now developed a close rapport with leaders of the Joint Opposition.

The personal staffs of a lady politician from Colombo, it is learnt, have also been questioned over encashing of cheques of unknown amounts. In the midst of this, Parliament Joint Opposition leader Dinesh Gunawardena wrote to Speaker Karu Jayasuriya urging him to table all documents related to the Central Bank bond scam, including the Commission report.

Ravi back at the helm of FCID

Senior Deputy Inspector General Ravi Waidyalankara is back at his desk again as the head of the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID).

The move follows a decision by the Cabinet of Ministers to re-employ him on a contract basis. This was after the Law and Order Minister recommended that that his case be considered for special reasons.

The decision also received the approval of the National Police Commission (NPC).

John wears the cap

Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs Minister John Amaratunga has responded to a report last week in these columns headlined Lavish birthday bash free for politico. The report referred to a birthday bash at a Colombo hotel.

Though the report did not name anyone, the minister has worn the cap saying he held a birthday party and nothing was provided free of charge. He adds that I settled all the bills with regard to the event.

Unions want SriLankans restructuring plan

The Alliance of Unions of SriLankan Airlines has asked the airline management to make available to it plans submitted by the British firm Nyras for restructuring the national carrier.

The move follows a meeting alliance representatives had with President Maithripala Sirisena. At the meeting attended by senior management of SriLankan Airlines, the alliance has said, His Excellency explicitly conveyed that the plans should be made available to all airline unions for perusal.

Brutal attack on Jaffna newspaper circulation manager

It was some three hours before dawn when the circulation manager of a Jaffna-based Tamil newspaper began to panic.

The delivery boy for the town area had not arrived. A further delay would mean readers would not receive their copies of Kaalai Kathir, he feared.Hence, Selvarajah Rajendran (55), a father of three children, decided he would load the newspapers in the pillion of his motorcycle and drop them personally at sales outlets.

He had travelled barely a kilometre in the road alongside Hindu College, when five armed men in motorcycles, with their faces covered, accosted him. They assaulted him mercilessly and fled the area. Mr. Rajendran lay wounded until he was found at the break of dawn by passers -by and rushed to hospital.

A co-incidence was the presence in Jaffna that day of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. He had arrived there the previous evening from Kilinochchi. He telephoned Editor Nadesapillai Vithyatharan. I know you have been a superman in the past encountering similar problems. Dont worry. I will tell the Inspector General of Police, when I get back to Colombo, to conduct a thorough inquiry, he said. Editor Vithyatharan told the Sunday Times, My newspaper has been pursuing a Tamil nationalist line. We have therefore become targets.

Whether he is right or wrong is only one issue. With the military defeat of Tiger guerrillas in May 2009, no one expected armed gangs to operate brazenly in the peninsula. A remark by an intelligence source in the area, no doubt, would raise eyebrows. There are such gangs for hire now. So much for law and order in the north!

Rajapaksa, Ranil in Iftar politics

Former President and Joint Opposition de facto leader Mahinda Rajapaksa hosted an Iftar party at his official residence, drawing not only leading Muslim businessmen but also diplomats from West Asian countries, including a visiting Saudi Arabian delegation.

Mr. Rajapaksa, a one-time president of the Sri Lanka Committee for Solidarity with Palestine, had close ties with the Muslim community until he lost support following the Aluthgama riots a few years ago.Also present at the Iftar party were Minister and Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) leader Rauff Hakeem and State Minister M.L.A.M. Hisbullah.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickemesinghe will hold his Iftar party at Temple Trees on June 5.

Unlike the previous year, the invitation cards issued to UNP Muslim MPs have been increased. One MP who received ten last year said he has been issued with 50 cards to be distributed among Muslims in their electorate.

Top postings for career diplomats

A number of Sri Lanka Foreign Service career officers are in for new diplomatic postings, according to preparations now under way. In the running to take over as Sri Lankas High Commissioner in the United Kingdom is Manisha Gunasekera. She is currently the Sri Lanka Ambassador in South Korea. This post in Seoul is to be taken over by Ganehigama Arachchi, at present Director General (Consular) in the Foreign Ministry.

Sri Lankas new envoy to Russia is likely to be M.A.C.M. Wijeratne, currently Legal Officer in the Foreign Ministry. To be posted to Canada is Mohamed Jaffer, now envoy in the Netherlands. The likely candidate to be posted to South Africa is Asoka Girihagama now Director General in the Foreign Ministry.

In the corridors of the Foreign Ministry, the talk is over who will be posted to India to succeed High Commissioner Chitrangani Wagiswara. A top official is known to be strongly backing another lady career diplomat for the post though a decision is yet to be made.The most severe battle in the island This article is part of a continuing series on Sri Lankan history View(s): View(s):

Due to all these reasons, the king gave up the capital city, with no intention of returning. The Dutch who were now free from whatever trouble that could come from the king, were quite happy, that the king had vacated the city.



In the month of February 1658, a convoy of ships under the leadership of Rijcklof van Goens started sailing towards Mannar. The island of Mannar belonged to the Portuguese for over a hundred years.



Until the time that Jaffna shot into prominence, Mannar was a fertile, rich place, The coastline named Fishery Coast also belonged to Mannar. As a result, Mannar benefited by the rich resources of this area too.



After Jaffna came under Portuguese rule, the glory of Mannar diminished. After the Dutch started going about in the Indian Ocean, affairs of Mannar were neglected.



When the Dutch convoy of ships landed in Mannar, there arose strong opposition. The battle between the two powers commenced. This was supposed to be the most severe battle ever fought in the island.

By Halaliye Karunathilake

Edited and translated by Kamala Silva

Illustrated by Saman KalubowilaA walk to remember at the museum By Kaveesha Coswatte View(s): View(s):

When a group of strangers met at the doors of the newly renovated National Museum in Colombo recently, it proved to be one of the most entertaining museum experiences. Led by Hasini Haputhanthri, passionate museologist and history buff, Symphony in Bronze and Stone: A Walk through the National Museum, was a museum walk like no other. Starting off with a round of introductions from both local and foreign museum aficionados of all ages, the group delved into the history of the museum, its colonial roots and architecture. Hasini took them back into the shoes of Sir William Gregory, as his likeness stood tall and proud in the sun in front of his prized masterpiece, to show how he had procured the interest of the colonial powers adamantly to build a museum that would one day house the most precious and richest collections Ceylon had to offer.

The focus of the one hour walk was upon the Bronze and Stone galleries of the museum, moving from the Anuradhapura dynasty, to the changes of art in the Polonnaruwa era and finally over to the marvels of the Kandyan kingdom. Walking alongside the Gods and Goddesses of the Buddhist and Hindu pantheon sparked debate on Buddhism, the race between India and Sri Lanka to produce the best art possible and the influence of religion on life and art. The feminine beauty of Goddess Tara, a female Bodhisatva deity of Mahayana Buddhism, captured in what Hasini deemed a bad replica from its original splendor brought forth conversations of how colonialism had affected countries with a rich heritage, bringing in similar perspectives from Egypt and the infamous bust of Queen Nefertiti. The group also studied the stone gallery with its collection of stone inscriptions from around the island. Engraved in ancient Sinhala, Tamil, Arabic and Chinese, the fading stone slabs fueled assumptions of what relations would have existed back in the day. Attempts were made to decipher the ancient decorative language of Kufi and Persian inscriptions with the help of Egyptian and Syrian nationals in the group, in the best spirit of cultural co-existence and friendship.

The participants also got to play the characters who were frontrunners in the museums history, bringing the likes of Joseph Lawton, Ananda Coomaraswamy and Sir William Gregory to life, voicing their views about the richest artifacts that are indispensable to Sri Lankas legacy as master sculptors and crafters through colorful flashcards. The interactive nature of the walk, bouncing ideas and facts off one another, from Sri Lankan to Syrian, Egyptian, Pakistani, Columbian and even between fellow Sri Lankans, gave the walk a zest of life and detached from what we typically (but quite mistakenly) associate museums with; monotony. The walk ended on a high note with the beautiful communion of it all: the richly decorated conch shell donned with superior bronze craftsmanship, the perfect symphony between Hindu and Buddhist art forms, in remembering the great bygone eras of the isle.

The Symphony in Bronze and Stone was a part of a series of guided Memory walks organized by Historical Dialogue, an online digital platform created to serve the critical discourse on historical dialogue in Sri Lanka. To join their next walk, or to know about their initiative, visit historicaldialogue.lk.Exploring gender on canvas By Hiranyada Dewasiri Genderless Jungle an exhibition by a group of young artists on June 9 and 10 View(s): View(s):

Societys general norm that girls and boys should be and behave in distinctly different ways from each other is a basic explanation of gender, said Kapila Rasanayake, the curator of Genderless Jungle, an exhibition of Contemporary Art for Gender Equality. He invites the public to engage with the work of the artists on June 9 and 10 (Saturday and Sunday), from 10 a.m to 9 p.m. at the Faculty of Visual Arts, University of Visual and Performance Art, Horton Place, Colombo 7. The free event and non  profit initiative will include the work of 12 artists.

Kapila, a feminist and gender activist, believes that art is the best medium to discuss social issues. Kapila is the founder of Voices of Humans, an organisation promoting gender equality that was founded in 2017. He also represented Sri Lanka at the 62nd session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in New York.

It is generally considered that boys shouldnt wear pink or do things that are considered soft and since childhood, Kapila wanted to free himself from such constraints. In his journey to find freedom from these barriers that patriarchal society has imposed on men, he became a gender activist. While studying sociology in university, he was also exposed to the many problems that women face and became more passionate about these issues that society tends to disregard.

Women do not have equity in the society we live in and are often underrepresented. Women are subjected to gender-based violence and sexual harassment and are often the first to be blamed. To Kapila, these are characteristics of a patriarchal society.

A few weeks ago, a video by Kapila went viral on social media. The video shows Kapila having a conversation with a group of young boys from Madampe about the causes of rape the boys answers stunned many. Inappropriate dress, travelling after dark, travelling alone and asking for it, were some of the responses. To Kapila it was not surprising and he didnt think it was these boys fault. These are the same responses I received in a workshop for a girls school in Colombo, he said.

A generation or two ago, if we mentioned manioc and coconut sambol to kids, their mouths would probably water, but if you say the same thing to a child today, the child wouldnt react with that same eagerness, because their learning has made them associate different flavours with taste. Approaches on gender could also be like that, explained Kapila. He stressed the need to use new ways to engage with the youth when it came to gender-related issues.

Genderless Jungle is a bigger project and the exhibition will be followed by monthly talk shows and gender workshops, said the curator. We should promote the idea of being human instead of gender which is a man-made distinction. The vegetation in a jungle is not planted by humans. They are creations of the jungle. In a jungle, we are free from these societal barriers, he said, explaining the name of his initiative.

Asela Abeywardene, a contributing artist, lives in Dubai. My art is not usually a statement but a provocative thought. As a female artist, my work explores womanhood, especially in the South Asian cultural context, said Asela, a painter and sculptor. By depicting strong historical female characters like Kuveni and Draupadi, she feels she could relate a story that resonates in the current context.

Two foreign artists -Gbemisola Bamiduro from Nigeria and Zalfa Stevenson from Lebanon will also take part in Genderless Jungle. They will be joined by local artists Goabi Ramanan, Jessica Ferrari, Joshua Heby, Juliet Rajasingham, Methuna Rajah, Rifadha Jawher, Sahani Dikkumbura, Salome De Silva and Thushara Kalubowila.

With musical programmes, theatre performances and poetry readings towards the evening on both days, the programme promises much stimulation.Of racism in the classroom and Trump supporters By P.H. Imbalanced View(s): View(s):

Since President Trump was elected to power in November 2016 Trumps Minions (TMs) have reared their ugly heads in my classrooms. I hate being the target for their unfounded ignorance on race, but being brown and teaching English to white students can lead to some hostility at times. In those rare moments, I remind myself that teaching undergraduates English was an opportunity that never presented itself in Sri Lanka. I often joke about it with my Lankan friends. I was never good enough for the Sri Lankan free education system that demanded ridiculous expectations of qualified and eager Lankan academics. The mental reminder of the oppressive politics of the Lankan education system has made me thankful for the platform for teaching that was gladly granted to me by a Southern American university in the US. Armed with this slice of wisdom I battle the occasional Trump Minions (TMs) in my class. Trump Minions, as I fondly refer to them, are a posse of white Trump supporters who realized they can air their ignorant views openly after Trump became their president. Trump legitimized racism amongst this group of minions who appeared out of the woodwork when they heard he was going to Make America Great Again. Obviously, they happily volunteer to do Trumps bidding.

One particular incident that proved the TMs persistence on white racial superiority is etched in this brown teachers memory. The TM in my class that semester was the Student Leader of the Republican Student Union on campus. He was a privileged white boy from Texas who came from a family that were considered oil moguls in the area. In other words, he was rich, entitled and absolutely horrified that he had to learn English from some brown Indian woman. It didnt take me long to figure out that he was all out to get me that semester. He would make it his soul mission to irritate me with inappropriate questions in class and to grumble about the work load I assigned. His first attempt at ruffling my feathers was received with shocking disapproval among my other students in class. He asked me openly what authority I had to teach him English. I explained that I was in this position because the Great American education system had an impressive set of checks and balances which ensured that qualified personnel take over the teaching of Great Americans. Some of the students popped by my mini office on campus after class to apologize for TMs awfully racist and unacceptable behavior. They reassured me that they loved my teaching and were ashamed that he is a political representative for a student body on campus.

This is why I love teaching, because I always meet people who restore my faith in humanity. They remind me that there are some who actually apologize for being racist.

A quality that I truly admire and respect.

So when teaching, the voice in my head says, its all about perspective. This prevents me from getting too angry and suffering from a heart aneurism while in class.

But this TM seriously wished upon a heart aneurism to come my way. My response to his question was too chilled out. He was infuriated that his questions hadnt thrown me off balance. So he probably spent his free time away from his Frat house devising a cruel plan to get back at me.

He would do it in writing. Hit you where it hurts. Especially given that Im a teacher and my soul objective is to help students to learn how to string sentences together. His final paper was going to be his racist soapbox.

The final essay prompt required students to write a four page paper on a topic of their choice. He saw his opportunity. This persistent TM chose to write on the 9/11 attacks. And in his final essay, which I only grade after the final day of the semester at home, his thesis was that 9/11 was carried out by extremist Muslims who came to the US on a student visa. His research essay defeated the purpose of research because there was none in it. It was an opinion piece based on what Americans refer to these days as fake news. Of course he hated that I taught him English and in a casual conversation after class he boldly asked me what visa I came on to the US. I stated the obvious, I was here on a student visa. I had no idea that this piece of information would be the central theme, thesis or premise of his final paper. It was his final racist hurrah in my class. He passed with a B.

Dont look so shocked! His language skills were subpar and he barely made the mark, but, I had every intention of passing him because I didnt want any of my fellow teachers to have to deal with him in their composition class next semester. I must also say this, he got an A for effort because his revenge plan proves theres a head above his shoulders. Its a racist battle I fought tooth and nail that semester. One that Ill always remember.

The columnist is a Sri Lankan who resides in what is best known as the deep South of America. Living in a quaint college town teaching English and World Literature to university undergraduates at an American University. Currently pursuing the final year of her PhD in English, she hopes to continue her journey of teaching, writing and exploring cultures.S. Thomas Mount comes alive with 10th Unity Camp View(s):

Nearly 200 youth from 21 districts of Sri Lanka in the age group of 18-20 years gathered at S. Thomas College, Mount Lavinia for the 10th Unity Mission Trust (UMT), Unity Camp.

The UMT initiated unity and integration efforts from May 2009 and this camp, held end April 2018 was on the Theme Powering Lives; Building Unity and Peace.

The unique model of the Trust is that young people from across the schools system are selected and invited to attend the flagship event of the Trust. The four-day Residential Camps held at various locations around Sri Lanka bring together these selected youth from across Sri Lanka.

At the camps the youth are mixed up and placed in groups that stay together for the duration of the camp. Friendships are formed and at the end of each camp, these youth, who initially could not even talk to each other due to language, cultural and geographic barriers, part with hugs and even tears.

Thereafter, most remain in contact. Once they leave school, they are encouraged to link up with the Regional Council of their residential area. This enables further bonding within the Region and the strengthening of inter  regional friendships.

Each Unity Camp follows a structure that provides each participant opportunities to build up their inner capabilities and for their talent to shine  be it at sports, drama, music, oratory, art and craft or through team based exercises and competitions.

Outstanding young leaders Chethana Liyanage, Nadee Dissanayake and Nuzlath Naheem as well as youth trainers Pulasthi Samaraweera and Dinuk de Silva Wijeyeratne also addressed the youth.

Tharuka Jayaratnam of S. Thomas College and J. Rumeshini from Mannar District were selected as the Best Campers and were the Winners of the Lakmali Nanayakkara Memorial Challenge Trophies.

The Best Group Leader Awards went to Wihanga Rashmika from Ratnapura and T. Ramya from Mannar District.

Special Leadership awards were given to Sashika Nimesh( Nuwara Eliya); Arani Cooray (Colombo); T. Yalarasi (Killinochchi); Nazmiya Mansoor (Galle) and Priyenha Elampiriyan ( Jaffna).

The UMT has now completed more than 70 large scale unity and integration projects and has nearly 10,000 youth leaders who have absorbed the messages of unity, integration and equality.

The thought rationale is that the bridges of friendship that have been built up, together with the further fostering of unity like a little seed that germinates, into a little shoot will grow into being a huge tree that makes a real difference.

Volunteers who wish to work with the Trust, can obtain more information from Facebook or the web.Talking art with her Instagram followers By Musaffa Mafaz View(s): View(s):

At first art was a part of me, with time I became a part of art, says the 22-year-old artist from Kandy, Fazra Siddeek. Fazra has been drawing since her childhood and in recent years, the self-taught artist has been focusing on social issues through her work.

She took her initial step in 2016 maintaining an Instagram page posting regularly whatever she drew on her new project, art with purpose. I saw that art was more than a few sprinkles of colour.I thought it was necessary for me to do something useful, something of purpose, she told the Sunday Times.

With this project she hopes to inspire people through her work. Her projects mission is to make people ponder on social issues which are overlooked and to promote greater understanding. Whats the point in doing something if it doesnt benefit one another, she asks. The major purpose of her art, she stresses, is to provoke thought and enlighten people.

I just have to look around and see whats happening around me, she said.Human rights violations, self- harm,war and violence, wealth disparity, class discrimination, social media, health and insecurity are some of the themes and issues that are reflected through her thought provoking works. Fazra says she is strongly influenced by the work of Pawel Kuczynski, a contemporary Polish artist who is known for his satirical work .

Social media has always been her platform. She hopes the daily scrollers will gain more insights through her work. From the feedback she receives, she feels her art influences people positively. So far theyve always given me positive responses. I get personal messages appreciating my work. And that keeps me going.

Currently studying for a bachelors in Business Administration, Fazra hopes to start her own studio within the next two years by raising funds through an exhibition. I call art the language of everyone. If I want to project something, I dont have to think about language fluency, rather about the logical minds of people. This is a far easier medium of communication than any other.

She paints out of passion and not with sales in mind she says. Her paintings are sold for Rs.1000 for art on paper, and Rs.2500 to Rs.5000 for canvas creations.Purchase of Edirisinghe Group: Investors in a labyrinth of multiple companies View(s):

A director of the consortium investing in the troubled Edirisinghe Group is a close business partner of R.M. Manivannan, Chairman of SupremeSAT, which claimed to have launched Sri Lankas first communications satellite in 2012. Mr Manivannan is also a long-time business partner of Jaya Sudhir Jayaram, the Malaysian businessman who till recently was negotiating on behalf of Lycamobile Chairman Allirajah Subaskaran for a stake in the Edirisinghe Group through a venture called Straits Grid Pte Ltd.

The Singapore-registered Blue Summit Capital Management Ltd has now signed a sales and purchase agreement with the Edirisinghe family to buy several of its companies. One of its directors is Omar Siraj M Qandeel. Mr Qandeel and Mr Manivannan together started up two new companies as recently as last year. Supremesat Japan (Pvt) Ltd was registered in Sri Lanka in September while Supreme Innovation (Pvt) Ltd was registered in October. They are the initial directors.

Its now in the bag The Edirisinghe Group deal is now in the bag, Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) officials have said. The buyer has now transferred US$ 32mn of a total of US$ 75mn pledged for the deal. They also said the investor has cleared Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements and come up clean. ETI Finance Ltd will sell its holding of shares in subsidiary and sub-subsidiary companies and investment properties. The first installment of the payment amounts to Rs 5,017.6mn. CBSL has instructed ETI to pay urgently 10 percent of deposit liabilities or Rs 3,350mn and accrued interests of Rs 1,400mn as at end May 2018 using the sales proceeds received. ETI has also been directed to pay a further 10 percent of deposit liabilities on receipt of the balance part of the sale proceeds of US$ 43mn.

Supremesat Japan was set up ostensibly to carry on the business of sales and export of all types of satellites by importing components, design, assemble, manufacture, in lab tests and model demonstration. Mr Qandeel is listed in documents lodged with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) as Saudi Arabian. His address is given as 3 Temasek Avenue, #26-03, Centennial Tower, Singapore 039190.

This was the same address used by Rohitha Rajapaksa, youngest son of the former President, when he purportedly registered a company named Dycer International in Singapore. The Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore has no record of this entity. There is, however, a Dycer International with the identical registration number provided to Sri Lankas ROC incorporated in the British Virgin Islands.

Dycer held a ten percent stake in SupremeSAT but divested those shares in June 2016. The present shareholders of SupremeSAT are Supreme Global Holdings (Pvt) Ltd chaired by Mr Manivannan and J S Energy Holdings (Pvt) Ltd owned by Mr Jayaram. J S Energy was also first registered to 3 Temasek Avenue, #26-03, Centennial Tower, Singapore 039190.

But it has since shifted to another address popular with Mr Jayaram: P O Box 957, Offshore Incorporations Centre, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands (BVI). He also used it when he assumed directorship of a company named The Horton Square (Pvt) Ltd which was set up to build a US$ 250mn mixed-development project in Horton Place, Colombo 7.

The other directors of Horton Square are Mr Manivannan, Renuka Shanmuganathan (the two directors of SupremeSAT) and Alberto de Simone, an Italian with Belgian and Dehiwala addresses. The Horton Place project is stalled without planning permission. And a dispute has arisen between these investors and Purni Edwards, who owned the 291-perch prime block identified for the venture. She is still reportedly the beneficiary owner.

Purni is the wife of Rienzie Edwards who, in December 2016, was indicted along with five others by the US Attorneys Office for allegedly defrauding victims of more than US$50 million.

Mr Jayaram also owns a company called Al-Rafidian Holdings (Pvt) Ltd. This is confirmed by Singaporean court papers. Mr Manivannan has stated on record that Al-Rafidian provided satellite acquisition financing to SupremeSAT.

In November, Mr Jayaram was detained by Sri Lanka Customs while trying to smuggle out US dollar notes amounting to US$ 50,000 in his hand luggage. Two others had US$ 50,000 each while the fourth carried US$ 58,000. But punitive action is being blocked by the Ministry of Finance which has taken from the Customs Department a file containing evidence against the suspects, including messages of them canvassing powerful political personalities to have them released.

The BVI address Mr Jayaram regularly lists is common to hundreds of other entities from around the world. In the 2016 International Consortium of Investigative Journalists Panama Papers leak, BVI emerged as the most commonly used tax haven by clients of Panamanian offshore financials provider Mossack Fonseca.

Mr Manivannans business address at 33 West Tower, World Trade Centre, Colombo 1 is also popular. A large number of companies are registered to it including Ceylon Commodity Impex (Pvt) Limited; Supremeast (Private) Limited; V V M Lanka Minerals (Pvt) Ltd; Ceylon Investment and Venture (Pvt) Ltd; Supreme Ventures (Pvt) Limited; Venmar International (Pvt) Ltd; Dycer International (Pvt) Ltd, Sri Lanka; Singha Lanka Investments (Pvt) Ltd; Supreme Global Holdings (Pvt) Ltd; Supreme Space Investments (Pvt) Ltd which is now defunct; SupremeSAT Investments (Pvt) Ltd; Singha Industrial Investments (Pvt) Ltd; Buyback Mobile (Pvt) Ltd; Supreme Solutions (Pvt) Ltd; Supremesat Japan (Pvt) Ltd; and Supreme Innovation (Pvt) Ltd.

An examination of the groups activities points to the creation of multiple companies, opaque financial transactions, poor reporting, frequent share transfers and labyrinthine business practices. One concern is how similar named entities are registered in Sri Lanka, UAE and Singapore with the businesses in Sri Lanka having possible connections to the offshore entities.

For instance, Supreme Global Holdings is also registered in the Middle East at P O box 33582, Al Jazeera, Al-Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. A common email address was used for Supreme Global Holdings UAE and the company registered in Sri Lanka.

One of the initial shareholders of The Horton Square (PVt) Ltd is an entity called Paradise Island Holdings Ltd which is also registered to the same UAE location. This is the address of RAK Company Administration FZ LLC or RAKCA which calls itself the largest Registered Agent for incorporation Offshore & Onshore Company [sic] regulated under Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority. Its services include management and administration of offshore companies and establishment of accounts with prime banks in the UAE.

In January 2016, Mr Manivannan and his wife, Vasuki, registered the Orenda Ceylon Foundation ostensibly to provide clean drinking water to rural communities and to uplift their living conditions. It has still not been registered with the National Secretariat for Non Governmental Organizations as required by the Registrar of Companies.

The NGOs activities are therefore not monitored by any independent authority. But the Foundation has reserved the right to invest the money or funds of the Foundation not immediately required for its purposes or upon such investments, securities and/or property as may be thought fit

Other companies that use the Temasek Avenue address are Straits Consultancy Ltd and Quantum Ark Technologies BV which is said to have made an advance payment of US$ 1mn towards Mr Manivannas satellite project.As Govt seeks to legalise unauthorised buildings, UDA launches flying squad View(s):

A week after the Sunday Times revealed a Government move to bring in a Bill that seeks to legalise unauthorised constructions in state-built condominiums, the Urban Development Authority has come up with a proposal to deploy flying squads to ensure that private and state sector constructions are being carried out according to approved plans.

UDA Chairman Jagath Munasinghe told the Sunday Times the teams carrying out the inspections would be authorised to recommend a halt to construction, to correct shortcomings or initiate legal action. He said the UDA would also be empowered to impose penalties.

The UDA plans to launch its flying squad programme comes in the wake of the Governments bid to present the Apartment Ownership (Special Provision) Bill in Parliament to give approval to unauthorised extensions and flawed condominiums constructed by the state prior to 2009.

The Sunday Times Page 1 lead story last week highlighted the key provisions of the bill.Responding to the news item, Housing and Construction Ministry Secretary Bernard Vasantha said the objective of the bill was to provide enabling legislation for the registration of condominium properties constructed by state agencies, especially by the Commission of National Housing prior to 2009.

He said the proposed legislation also covered condominium properties constructed on state lands in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami.The Secretary said the principal intention of this bill was to provide security to tenants and dwellers in state sector constructed condominiums.

The bill provides for approval of state sector constructions, notwithstanding the lack of building plans approved by the local authority, the lack of a certificate of conformity issued by the local authority, and the lack of an assessment number. It also provides approval for condominium properties that are not in conformity with building plans.

UDA Chairman Munasinghe said they decided to launch the flying squads after investigations showed that some of the constructions were illegal and had failed to keep to the approved plans.

He said the UDA had estimated that in the Colombo District alone, there were more than 10,000 unauthorised structures.The UDA chief said the flying squad would carry out inspections in the Western Province and 46 other zones coming under the purview of the UDA, with the support of the local authorities, the Sri Lanka Land Reclamation Development Corporation and divisional secretaries.Confiscated sand and timber for places of worship and state bodies View(s):

Sand and timber confiscated by courts are to be released to places of religious worship and government institutions at concessionary rates, the Justice Ministry has decided. The ministry in a circular has informed High Court judges and magistrates that this directive is in terms of a Cabinet decision.

In the case of confiscated sand, release is required to be undertaken by the relevant court itself while the State Timber Corporation (CTC) is entrusted with the release of confiscated timber through its regional centres once it receives the stocks. Hence the courts have been informed to make prompt arrangement to deliver the stock of timber to the STC immediately upon confiscation.

Requests from the places of religious worship for sand and timber would have to be submitted along with the recommendation of the respective Divisional Secretary to the Ministry in charge of the subject of Religious Affairs which should thereafter refer such requests along with its recommendation to the Ministry of Justice.

Where there are requests from the government institutions for sand and timber, the relevant Head of the Department is required to submit such requests with his recommendation to the line Ministry which should thereafter refer such requests along with its recommendation to the Ministry of Justice for its approval.

This programme will continue till December 31 this year. The confiscated sand is required to be released at a concessionary rate of Rs.2,500 a cube in the Western Province and Rs.1, 500 in other provinces.Confiscated timber is required to be released at a concessionary rate to be decided by the STC by deducting 50 percent from the district committee ruling price.

The maximum limit to be released per place of religious worship or a government institution is as 10 cubes for sand and 1000 cubic feet for timber. Each cube of sand and each cubic foot of timber to be purchased exceeding the maximum limit are required to be released at the assessed rate.

Confiscated sand and timber made available after December 31 this year will be sold by public auction once in three months. It will be auctioned by the relevant court in case of sand and the STC in case of timber.Crime: Minimum age raised to 12 View(s):

The minimum age limit for criminal responsibility is to be increased from eight to 12 years, according to a Penal Code amendment to be introduced in Parliament soon.

Justice Ministry Secretary W.M.M.A. Adikari said it had been found that children Under 12 who were involved in criminal activity were not mature enough to realise the gravity of their crimes. Hence, the Government believed there should be a more holistic approach in dealing with juvenile offenders.

The proposed amendment specifies that any offence committed by a child less than 12 years of age would not be a crime.The amendment would also provide that in cases where the child is above 12 years and under 14 years, the magistrate would have the discretion to determine whether such child has the required degree of cognitive maturity to form the requisite intent or to entertain requisite knowledge of the offence.

Along with this, the Code of Criminal Procedure too would be amended to provide for the magistrate to refer the child to a Government Medical Officer to examine and report to the police indicating whether the child has attained sufficient maturity of understanding to judge the nature and consequence of his or conduct. The medical officer would also report whether the child is in need of any therapeutic intervention.Doctors, staff protest coroners ruling that medical negligence led to death of 24-year-old pregnant woman View(s):

A ruling by Colombo City Coroner Iresha Deshani Samaraweera that negligence on the part of doctors and nursing staff, appeared to have contributed to the death of a 24-year-old pregnant woman at the National Hospital, has drawn protests from the doctors and staff.

The deceased Dilani Perera from Bloemendhal Road, Colombo 13, passed away at the Colombo National Hospital.

Ms Samaraweera said her verdict was based on evidence that came up during the inquiry and, as per the powers vested in her, she had summoned the medical staff of the particular ward for an inquiry on June 8 and 9.

JMO Dr Rahul Haq had ruled that death was due to septic shock (acute prevalent faecal) generalized peritonitis, following acute appendicitis.

The Sunday Times learns that a complaint has been lodged against the Coroner with the Health Ministry, and a discussion on the complaint will be held by the doctors on Monday at the National Hospital.Flood toll reveals sad fate of homeless By Shaadya Ismail Farming, fishing livelihoods in tatters View(s): View(s):

As the floodwaters recede, some 157 families face a bleak future, with some homes lost to the waters and almost 7,000 other homes damaged across 21 districts. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said initial compensation payments of Rs.10,000 had been distributed, and the remaining amount would be paid once estimates were received from each district.

Damage estimates are currently being carried out in each district, and we expect to receive the numbers by next week, DMC Deputy Director Pradeep Kodippili said. He said wells in the affected regions were being cleaned up to ensure people had safe drinking water.

While many families moved out of relief camps and returned home during the week after the floods receded, the damage caused to their means of livelihood and industries was immense. The floods have left 35,391 people facing hardship.

Two deaths and four incidents of injury were reported from the Ratnapura District, where 585 houses were damaged, with 19 of them in ruins. Damage was also caused to 191 roadways, 6 bridges, 16 irrigation systems and 3 schools. Almost 850 wells were classified as unhygienic and are being treated with chlorine by army personnel.

During their stay in relief camps, people were provided with cooked food and, when they left, dry rations sufficient for a week were distributed, Ratnapura District Secretary, Malani Lokupothagama said.

In Puttalam, the three relief camps set up by the Puttalam District Secretariat harbour 95 people from 26 families but District Secretary N.H.M. Chitrananda said 5,800 families were in need following the floods. Some 865 houses were partly damaged while 55 families were left without any kind of home. Mr. Chitrananda said recovery work had begun. Waters have receded from roadways, areas are being cleared, and dry rations and compensation have been distributed to families, he said. Many industries in the Puttalam District are in chaos. Prawn farmers have been affected as prawns have been washed out of the lagoon into the sea.

The pottery industry has been destroyed completely, depriving the people of Mundalama of their livelihood. Compensation will be awarded and raw materials provided to revive the industry. Livestock farmers have lost property with many animals missing or drowned. Mr. Chitrananda said total damage is estimated at Rs.479 million, of which Rs. 10 million is from damaged roads and bridges.

Kalutara District Secretary U.D.C. Jayalal said the floods have left 6,147 in hardship. At present, the Secretariat is running two relief camps housing 33 people. The floods damaged 327 houses, of which 11 houses were completely damaged. Agriculture in the district was affected very badly as 1,100 acres of paddy land was destroyed.

The current damage estimate of Rs.23.5 million is expected to increase.

In Kaduwela, two homes were buried by landslides and 1,244 others partly damaged by floods  many of these were illegal constructions, Divisional Secretary A.D.Y. Anandani said. The Secretariat has sheltered 5,062 people in relief camps over the past week. Kaduwela faces a crisis over safe drinking water and the Red Cross has been distributing water.

In the Gampaha District, 4 people died while 66,068 people from 16,232 families were affected, with 20 houses being partially damaged, and 9 houses completely damaged. The deaths were reported from Gampaha, Attanagalla, Divulapitiya and Mahara areas. Officials said the affected families had been paid Rs.15,000 as immediate relief and a further Rs.85,000 would be paid later. They were also provided food relief and dry rations. They said the affected people were also being provided with drinking water in bowsers and this would continue until the wells in the areas were cleaned and ready for use. The Attanagalla Divisional Secretariat has set up 27 relief camps housing 680 people. Wells are being treated with chlorine. Dry rations have been distributed and 20 households have received the initial compensation payment of Rs.10,000, with 35 households to be paid next week.

Seven Divisions in the Galle District experienced flooding, causing hardship to 94 families. Dry rations and compensation payments were being given out. People are gradually settling back to their lives although the process is strenuous as they have to rebuild what was destroyed, Galle District Secretary, Pradeep Ratnayake said.

Damaging wind warning for coasts Strong winds in Mullaitivu, Jaffna, Moneragala, Hambantota, Matara and Polonnaruwa damaged almost 200 homes, and warnings have been issued for more of the same conditions in coastal areas. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said 656 people have suffered losses as a result of the damaging winds. Meteorological Department Forecasting Director Anusha Warnasooriya said coastal areas would be hit by winds stronger than the 50-60 kph winds that normally accompany the south-west monsoon. The island will experience strong winds as the Southwest Monsoon has commenced, she said.

Twin tunnels to clear Colombo floods A scheme to mitigate floods in Colombo will commence with the aid of the World Bank and the China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Corporation. The project budget is USD321mn, of which two-thirds will be provided by the World Bank. The Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development will invest Rs.5.8mn. The projects focus will be the construction, by 2020, of 2 new tunnels  the Torrington Tunnel and the New Mutwal Tunnel  using micro-tunnelling technology, which uses remote-controlled boring machinery. The Torrington Tunnel will be 1,100m long with an internal diameter of 3m and will run 5-6m underground along Bauddhaloka Mawatha, crossing the Thummulla Junction, Galle Road, Marine Drive and Southern Coastal Railway to the sea. The New Mutwal Tunnel will be 750m long, also with an internal diameter of 3m, and will run along the Eli House Area, crossing Aluth Mawatha and St Andrews Road at Mutwal to the sea at a depth of 5-19m underground, the changing depth caused by variations in the ground surface. A total of 63 families whose homes had to be demolished for the project have been given new houses and compensation will be paid to families whose homes lie above the underground tunnels. The Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development said work has commenced on a pumping station at Nagalan Veediya and a pumping station at Ambatale is expected to start working later this year. Work on the second phase of the Kittampahuwa Ela in Kolonnawa, used to mitigate floods, will commence this year.Private company to operate new train services in Htota District By Damith Wickremasekara Restaurants, cargo storage facilities and shopping malls along the route; port and airport also to be linked View(s): View(s):

The Government wants the private sector to build and operate rail services in a US$ 800 million (Rs. 127 billion) project in the Hambantota district, a senior official said yesterday.

In terms of the proposal approved by the cabinet, worldwide tenders will be called to construct railroads from Beliatta to Hambantota, Kataragama and the Mattala airport on a Build-Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis, Transport Ministry Secretary G.S. Withanage told the Sunday Times.

The company undertaking the project would be required to construct a rail track of nearly 100km, install signalling systems and operate the services within the district, he said. It could decide on the fare to be levied, deploy its own locomotives and carriages for passenger or cargo transportation and levy charges for the state-sector trains entering the area and using the services.

In turn, if the companys locomotives or carriages use Sri Lanka Railway tracks and its services, it would have to pay for it, he explained. The secretary said the company would also be able to carry out commercial activities such as putting up restaurants, cargo storage facilities and shopping complexes in the areas coming under its purview.

The Governments initial estimates show that the project will cost around US$ 800 million, but, it could be higher depending on the quotations. The trains would serve the Hambantota Port, the Mattala airport and Kataragama pilgrims.

He said the Government was planning to hand over the operation to a company for about 40 years, after which the government could decide whether it could operate the service on its own.

Mr Withanage said the Government has agreed to provide local funding for the feasibility study for the project to expedite the launch of the service.Earlier several attempts were made to expand the railway to Kataragama and Hambantota areas, but the plans were derailed due to lack of funds.Rail technical workers pocket fat pay raise and perks By Abdullah Shahnawaz View(s): View(s):

Salary grievances of railway engine drivers, guards, station masters and engineers, who had demanded a double-digit percentage increase in their pay packet will be settled, following a Government decision.

The Railway Technical Services Trade Union had, over the past few weeks, agitated for a salary increase of 12% for 12,000 rail workers, including casual workers and substitutes. They also demanded incentives that they claimed had been withheld since 2004 and held a 48-hour token strike on May 31.

The Railway Controllers Association accused the technical workers of sabotaging train services. The technical workers have denied damaging locomotives.

A Cabinet sub-committee which agreed to railway worker demands, also laid down a condition that the Department of Railways salary scales and promotion system will apply only to the railway. This was meant to discourage other public servants also from agitating for salary revisions.

Science, Technology, Research, Skills Development & Vocational Training and Kandyan Heritage Minister, Sarath Amunugama, chaired the cabinet sub-committee.

Eventually, the salaries of 16,000 railways workers will be revised upward.

Transport Deputy Minister Asoka Abeysinghe told the Sunday Times the salary adjustment would go ahead. He explained that the first salary increase would be for engine drivers, guards, station masters and engineers who had made demands awhile back.

Mr. Abeysinghe said he met with the 40 trade unions, mostly technical workers, who went on strike and agreed to their salary demands on the condition that the railway will be a closed department.

Making the Railway Department a closed department would take up to three months, he said. This is important to ensure that any further demands of railway employees can be met without agitating other areas of the public sector and without their interference.

The deputy minister added that it is obviously only a temporary solution and would not guard completely against railway strikes.

But railway unionists are also opposing other proposed measures.

The unions had a discussion on Friday with Minister [Sarath] Amunugama which ended without a positive result. We opposed the ministers suggestion to appoint an administrative board to the Railways Department. All the unions are meeting next week and well take a decision whether or not to go on strike, All Ceylon Railway Union Chairman S. P.Vithanage said.

Many train travellers were inconvenienced this week. Two train services, one from Fort to Polgahawela, and another from Fort to Panadura, were cancelled.

Ahmed Azoor, 32, a regular commuter, said he waited for 40 minutes at the Fort Station for a train back home to Hunupitiya. I called the railway station in the morning on my way to work and was told that there would be delays, so I took the bus to work. Now, I have been waiting here at the station for 40 extra minutes for my train back. We use the train to save time spent on congested roads and then this happens. I hope something will be done to resolve this issue permanently and improve the train service, Mr. Azoor said.

Another passenger, Ms. S. B. Liyanage, 43, said her train to Polgahawela was also delayed.

Former General Manager of Railways, B. A. P. Ariyarathna, said the salary scale issue had dragged on during his tenure as well. The issue is when workers compare their salaries with workers of other sections in the department and other areas in the public sector. Many government sector workers work for low salaries and do not complain. The ones who organize themselves are the ones who have the power to do so. The workers who strike arent necessarily the ones worst off. There may be others worse off who lack the ability to organize and protest, Mr Ariyarathna said.

He said he had appeased certain protests by looking into their promotions and perks. A salary increase is something out of the Railways Departments control. What we can do instead is look into their other grievances, and reach a compromise.

He said that protests for everything is bad for the countrys image and the economy as a whole, and people should be more understanding and less selfish when they make such decisions.What Rajitha saw and did not see at Dambulla hospital View(s):

Health Minister and Vice President WHO, Dr Rajitha Senaratne on a visit to Dambulla hospital this week had apparently avoided visiting overcrowded wards including the one pictured here, in spite of pleas that he visit the ward. He had instead told those around him that new buildings will be contructed to ease the situation. Pix by Kanchana Kumara AriyadasaA wake up call to you the people View(s):

All authentic prophets, modern or ancient, were voices in the wilderness yet never wavering from their stand, never compromising with power, prestige or pelf, always consistent, comprehensive and compassionate. Dr Mervyn D. De Silva is one such rare prophet from Sri Lanka in our times. I had, now and then, read some of his articles in the newspapers but this collection is a real boon to all those who are interested in the common good of not only the people of Sri Lanka, especially the poor, but of the whole world.

The world today, for those who have eyes to see and ears to hear and for intelligent and objective observers, has sunk into decadence, economically, socially, culturally, morally, ethically and seems to be immersed in a quagmire of unprecedented superficiality. There are wars between Nations, ethnic and religious groups, social upheavals between haves and have-nots, heinous forms of crimes, domestic violence, political violence, breakdown of law and order, revolutions and counter-revolutions; corruption by the mightiest, politicians, bankers and businessmen, blatant violations of time-honored principles and codes of conduct and decency; blatant violation of constitutions, democracy, the judiciary and the executive organs of administration.  Page 9. Though the author starts this paragraph with the words The world today actually it is all about the current ugly situation in our own country, Sri Lanka. And that is what the subtitle of the book says: The failed Neoliberal Paradigms of Economics, Politics, Governance, Society and Science in Sri Lanka and Globally.

Agriculture is the specialty of Dr Mervyn and eradication of poverty is his chosen goal in life. For him the two are connected but the powers that be are so ignorantly and culpably superficial about this connection it is tragic. the governments undertaking utterly puerile tamashas in the rural paddy fields (1977) and farmer seminars in the capital city (1996) reveals the truth that the crux of the success of the modern techniques of food production and the massive support it requires have not been properly understood by the rulers.  page 34.

Dr Mervyn has consistently shown that the root cause of every unjust and evil aspect of society is economic poverty. Whether it is hunger and starvation, violence and terrorism, overseas slave labour and human trafficking, drugs and prostitution, inequality and income disparities, ill health and failure in education,  all are due to the basic fact that the majority cannot make ends meet at the end of the day. For him the eradication of poverty was top priority and the ethical, moral, social and political imperative of any responsible government.

His scathing attacks on the Washington Consensus institutions, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organization are unmatched by any leftist rhetoric. Nothing escapes his eagle eye: Glasnost-perestroika, GATT and RCN (Remote control neo-colonial status) Debt crisis and Aid, Structural adjustments, Mad cow disease, Free market, super NGOs, Privatization and Ecological disasters. He exposes their hidden agendas, double standards and hypocrisy, objectively and fearlessly.

He was in the Planning Ministry and later an MP in the Sirimavo Bandaranaike government. He comments on why planning became anathema, what the proper role of the ministry is, the presidential responsibilities, performance monitoring and reorganization of the ministry. He reveals with great clarity and responsibility how democracy in our country began to erode from the 70s onward. Today it is a mere facade and the people are left utterly helpless, politically stranded and their dignity dragged in the mud.

The articles are all relevant to the immediate socio-political needs of the country; searching for solutions to vital problems; analyzing the situation and critiquing it; but always Dr Mervyns basic tenets are clear and demanding; the unitary status of the country, the inalienable sovereignty of the people, a legislature of honest, committed ladies and gentlemen untainted by corruption and nepotism and the top priority of a sustained campaign to eradicate poverty not in some hazy future but within a planned rational time frame and clear deadlines.

A victim of government wrath when he exposed the Dambala hoax, Dr. Mervyn has paid dearly for his uncompromising stand against injustice, dishonesty and corruption. As the director of Tulana, Fr Aloysius Pieris SJ states; Dr De Silva insists that there can be no question of abandoning those in need.

The dire need of the hour, if we want to save this country intact for another generation, is for us all good and honest people to rouse ourselves and work together to bring about the downfall of the present governing kleptocracy; this indeed is the last plea of Dr Mervyn in his collected articles; it is on page 302; Patriotic countrymen with brains, guts and courage take up the gauntlet, get on the phones, make e-mail connections, contact anyone prepared to help, assemble groups, contact professional associations, inspire confidence, do more and talk less, dont throw cold water. Lets take one step in the right direction. If the people lead, the leaders will follow our attempts to end this unapologetic barbarism. Rise up to the occasion please.

I dream of somebody taking his articles and translating them into Sinhala and Tamil and publishing them, one by one, in our national vernacular newspapers.

The book itself is a beauty, thanks to the Media Unit of the Tulana Research Centre led by Robert Crusz, Sudath Attanayake and the printers Karunaratne & Sons (Pvt) Ltd.

Book facts Prophetic Indictments  collected articles of Dr Mervyn D. De Silva . Reviewed by Fr. Chryso Pieris SJArt teacher who loves to bring out the creativity in young ones By Tera Jayewardene Shyamala Pinto Jayawardenas students present an exhibition View(s): View(s):

Every inch of the Shyamala School of Art has been decked with art. On display from May 19 to June 30, the Creative Mind exhibition presents the work of Shyamala Pinto Jayawardenas students at her art school at No. 3 Siripa Road, Colombo 5 from 10.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. so that everyone can walk in and see the creativity on display.

Shyamala is a passionate art teacher who believes in the value of aesthetic education for children and as such is excited to be showcasing her students artwork. Art makes you sensitive, it makes you able to see ahead, see through things and it brings young people together, says Shyamala talking of the importance of art.

Many young children give up art because either schools dont teach art or their parents dont value an aesthetic education because they arent aware that art is a profitable subject that leads to many career opportunities, says Shyamala.

Accredited to the British Council for London O/L IGCSE and A/L Cambridge and Edexcel Art, the Shyama School of Art focuses on Edexcel OLevels and A Levels and also teaches the local OL and AL syllabuses.

Among the works on display, two thought provoking creations caught our eye.

Pavani Kaluarachchi has been a student of Shyamala since she was four years old and at the age of 16 her Edexcel OLevel examination piece displays much thought. As the topic was a collection, she started off studying cuckoo clocks. She then created a concept of how in the body, organs like clocks work on a specific time. Using an avocado skin as her inspiration, she drew a heart and inside it a brain; another heart was drawn but with clocks incorporated into it, fusing biological organs with clocks in her work to comment on how timing is an important factor in our survival.

Zain Riyaz on the topic of Freedom and Limitation for the Edexcel A Level examination depicts in her painting a woman soldier crying out in anguish; suspended above her is a pair of boots. In the background soldiers at war can be seen as well as a different and happier version of the woman wreathed in mist.

In addition to the exhibition Shyamala will be holding workshops for any interested teachers who want to bring their students to see the exhibition. Taking art as a subject as well as the practical application of art outside of school are some of the aspects she will touch on.Educating oneself on all thats essential in education View(s):

The title of this book itself is thought provoking. One could argue that principles are static and hence whether there could be modern principles. As the author states in the foreword yesterdays education is not suitable for today, it is certainly not suitable for tomorrow. In that context educational principles also should change in line with the transformations taking place in a rapidly changing world.

The book comprises ten chapters. Fittingly, the first chapter is on the Formulation of educational goals. At the outset the author cites the American writer, Stephen Vincent we do not know where we are going. But we are on our way. This quote succinctly epitomises the situation of a country without carefully planned educational goals. The writer goes on to discuss the common features of educational goals in the world and most importantly, the factors that should be considered in formulating them. In this context the national educational goals of Sri Lanka are discussed and followed by both eastern and western philosophical thoughts that can guide the formulation of educational goals.

The chapter ends with a list of competencies that one should acquire through education. I consider two very important aspects the writer brings out quite relevant to the present day education in Sri Lanka. First, that there must be a a clear conception of the person we are going to produce (Bertrand Russel). Secondly, Professor Kariyawasam quotes Piaget schools should be creating men and women capable of doing new things not simply repeating what other generations have done: men and women who are creative, innovative and discoverers, who can be critical and verify, and not accept everything they are offered. As John Dewey had remarked if we teach todays students as we taught yesterdays we rob them of tomorrow.

The chapters that follow elaborate on nine themes that can be considered as providing structure to any education system. The chapter on national integration for education is directly linked to the first national educational goal in Sri Lanka. The writer commences the chapter with an indictment on the Sri Lankan education system, which is quite true. He states that one of the most significant roles that education should have fulfilled was to produce a Sri Lankan with common qualities that go beyond narrow domestic walls such as ethnicity, religion and language. While elaborating on the concept of national integration the writer proposes pragmatic suggestions as to the role of education in nation building task. The tapestry of modern Sri Lankan society, he argues, was woven over a period of 2,000 years with the influence of Princess Kuweni, up to the modern Euro American global culture. This chapter exemplifies Bertrand Russells view that its coexistence or no existence.

The next two chapters- Life-Long education and Global education are interrelated. I would have preferred to read chapter 6, Education for the future immediately after these two chapters as I feel it would have been a fitting accompaniment to the other two chapters. In chapter three the writer elaborates on the view that the entire life is a school for every man from the cradle to the grave. He also argues that life-long education should be based on a philosophy and not a shopping  mall curriculum. Another important concept in the modern world  autonomous learning is linked very aptly to life -long learning.

While discussing the positive as well as negative aspects of globalisation the author spells out in such a context, the salient features of global education curriculum, the characteristics of a global education teacher and the competencies that should be developed in a global citizen. Going beyond Julien Huxleys (1947) prediction that the world needs a global philosophy, Professor Kariyawasam proposes a global anthem, a novel thought to ponder, to show the oneness of mankind in a globalized world.

Accountability and values are two concepts that are much talked of in the modern world. However, often the reference is in a negative context  that is lack of accountability and erosion of values. Therefore, these two chapters are important as they give insights as to how modern principles of education could incorporate inculcation of accountability and values in schools.

Soft skills are another buzz word in the context of modern education, especially with reference to the mismatch between the products of education and the demands of the job market. The author emphasises that Sri Lankan culture embodies many soft skills and lists many such skills that should be incorporated to the curriculum at schools and at higher education institutions. He also emphasises that inculcation of soft skills should commence at home. I would however, have preferred if the author had insisted that the development of soft skills through education should not be at the expense of hard skills. There must be a balance between the two.

One could wonder as to the inclusion of motivation in a book on modern principles of education. Motivation is the drive to accomplish any task. Without motivation no learning takes place and hence it should be an important ingredient in deciding educational principles. The author very correctly states that it is not sufficient only for students to be motivated but also that teachers should be equally motivated. Sadly in todays classrooms a motivated teacher is a rare sight. Therefore, the quote from Haim Ginotts (1973)  between teacher and child as well as Stanley Zehms My belief about teaching should be a manthram to all teachers.

In a country where there is no clear language policy for education and the decisions regarding the medium of instruction is decided by politicians, the chapter on Language learning should be read by policy makers as well as practitioners.

Professor Kariyawasam writes in simple language using the local idiom yet maintaining an academic genre. He draws inspiration both from western, eastern as well as traditional knowledge to which the Sinhala reader may not have easy access. Thus this book fulfils a much felt need of the Sinhala reader and the book can be purchased at a nominal price. In this context it is worthwhile to make reference to two of the companion volumes he authored sometime back, The Sri Lankan who should be produced by Education (Adhayapaneyen Bihikala yuthu Sri Lankikaya) and the Professionalization of the Teacher ( Guruvaraya Vrthiya Thathvayata Pathkirima ) which should have been subjected to the scrutiny of the academia for they were the first of its kind in Sri Lankas educational literature to disseminated new thinking in education. While Sri Lankas output in the genre of novels is commendable it is equally necessary to equip the Sinhala readers with books on education, science and technology to develop human capital.

This is a book that should be read by students, teachers, curriculum developers, policy makers as well as politicians. I hope that Modern Educational Principles will be translated to both Tamil and English, so that it would be available to a wider readership.

Professor Roland Abeypala in his introduction to the author refers to him as an excellent teacher who produced three generations of students. I had the privilege of being one among his second generation of students. Usually, it is a teacher who reviews his students work. Therefore, to have been given the opportunity to review this book is a rare honour for me.

(The reviewer is the Senior Professor in Humanities Education and the Director of the National Education, Research and Evaluation Centre of the Faculty of Education, University of Colombo)

Book facts Modern Educational Principles (Nawa Adyapana Muladarma) by Professor C. Kariyawasam. Reviewed by Marie PereraHarvesters Assist Inc., Sydney donates equipment to Apeksha Hospital View(s):

Harvesters Assist Inc., Sydney, recently donated a ValleyLab LS10 Vessel Sealing Generator costing Rs 1.5 million and a SonoSurg-G2 Ultrasonic Generator costing Rs.1.910 million to Apeksha Cancer Hospital, Maharagama. Rajan and Visithra Rajeswaran, founders of Harvesters Assist, handed over the equipment to Dr Panduka Jayasekara, Consultant Oncologist and Dr Minoli Joseph, Senior Registrar in Cancer Surgery.

Harvesters Assist Inc. is a not for profit organization established in Sydney, Australia which has, since 2009, annually provided equipment and support to the Apeksha Cancer Hospital, Maharagama.In the presence of a great chronicler Yomal Senerath-Yapa talks to Jean Arasanayagam, winner of the Gratiaen 2017 for The Life of the Poet View(s): View(s):

The audience stirred with a collective sense of pride when Jean Arasanayagam was announced the winner of the Gratiaen 2017 last Saturday at the BMICH. It had been a long wait for the countrys most cherished living poet in English. She was one of the early judges for the award in 1994, and then was shortlisted in 2016. In 2015 she saw her husband Thiyagarajah Arasanayagam being felicitated as the winner.

This years Gratiaen marks the awards 25th anniversary. Michael Ondaatje established the Gratiaen Trust, to recognize annually the best work of literary writing in English by a resident Sri Lankan, with the prize money he received for The English Patient, the winner of the Booker Prize for 1992. This years panel of three judges comprised Carmen Wickramagamage, Professor in English and Head of the Department of English at the University of Peradeniya; Andrew Fowler-Watt, Principal of Trinity College, Kandy, and Michelle de Kretser, the celebrated Colombo-born and Australia-based author.

The shortlist for 2017 was singular in many ways. All the four writers were women, while each represented a different genre of literature: Chiranthi Rajapakses Names and Numbers was a collection of short stories, Neshantha Harischandras A House down Queer Street was an unpublished novel, and Sunela Jayawardenes The Line of Lanka was a travelogue/ memoir while Jeans own collection of poetry was titled The Life of the Poet.

As Jean made her way to the front, in intricately patterned bird of paradise colours and heavy silver heirloom jewellery, and as she made her ebullient, spirited speech, I was conscious of some fine line between the public Jean and the private Jean- i.e. the poet. Certainly the colours and the intricacy seep into the private domain of poetry- albeit in such nuanced or brilliant shades and detail that everyday language has no words to describe them. Also evident was the mix of cultures- Burgher and Tamil as well as shades of so many others (being astonishingly well-travelled and well-read, quite apart from the actual, historical miscegenation). But the very human warmth and enthusiasm in her words concealed the fact that we were in the presence of a great chronicler.

For the very essence of Jean Arasanaygam oozes out of her pen. In their comments, the Gratiaen judges were visibly moved by a writer with such lucidity, power and passion; with an ability to capture in language the sights, sounds, flavours, fragrances and feel of places she visits. This is classic Arasanayagam- the magical marriage of the lyrical and the sensory her readers have relished since the early 70s. What is novel about this fresh collation published in 2017- The Life of the Poet?

As the title suggests, the collection explores in verse what the writer feels it means to be a poet and how those who are blessed with this noble and ancient gift see the world with different eyes. The judges were struck by the way she forensically analyzes in verse both herself and a way of thinking about subjects as diverse as family, art, war, faith and memory. Whilst deeply personal, the poems do not come across as indulgent or biographical. As the title suggests, these are poems designed to analyze and question what it means to be a poet. It is not about this poet in particular.

Jean affirms that in this collection she focused on themes that are more universal and relate to the human condition. Every aspect of life and experience is mirrored in it. You also come across fresh evocations of familiar motifs: the historical past, colonialism and what colonialism has engendered in the island.

In a curious way Jeans life is a narrative that runs closely parallel to the saga of our island. As a Dutch Burgher born before Independence she was a product of colonialism and her associations with Tamil culture were to suck her into the whirlpool of ethnic trouble much later, since marrying a Tamil from Colombo and falling forever in love with the vibrantly colourful culture of the Dravidians. But she points out also that it is this tropical island that inspired her with the new linguistics which she creates, and facilitated the search of metaphor and imagery- and of the image which is not stereotypical.

Jean herself does not pigeonhole herself into one genre, but explores the tremendous potential of creativity also in fiction, drama and creative non-fiction. Travelling has continually helped her dismantle the boundaries of her world, thus widening the dimensions of thought and experience. Yet in all her travel, she would always look forward to the return to the homely island shores.

Jean began writing very early. Her first book, Kindura (poems) appeared by 1973. The Life of the Poet, her most recent publication, is her 46th oeuvre, coming at the tail end of works of fiction, poetry, drama and creative non-fiction, many of them having been translated into Danish, Swedish, French, and Japanese among other languages. Among the many accolades she has received, the most noteworthy are a Doctor of Letters awarded by Bowdoin College, Maine, and the Premchand award, given by the Sahitya Akademi, India. Jean is also the recipient of many State Literary awards and the Lifetime Achievement Award, Sahitya Rathana.

Throughout her life Jean has called the green glades of Kandy home. She schooled and went to university there, and would teach at the Teacher Training College, Peradeniya and St. Anthonys College, Katugastota.

Jean, Thiyagarajah and their twin daughters Parvati and Devasundarie form a tightly-knit menage of writers cum artists, making Jansz House down Peradeniya Road an ashram, serenaded often by the wafting music of Jean playing the Theremin, her favourite instrument. It is little known that Jean is a painter, has written and produced many plays and touched the lives of countless students as teacher, lecturer and mentor.

Much water may have flowed down the Mahaweli since Jean was a Nice Burgher Girl attending the Kandy High School, but she remains as fresh- with so many things to say with as much passion and energy as she can summon to change the world.

I love life, humanity, this country and its people. And I want everyone to join me in my journey.  For it really has been an unending epic saga for Jean the poet, an extraordinary woman with not just an admirable way with words and extraordinary sensitivity and observation, but also a timeless vision.Monastery turns salon in an act of giving By Oshani Alwis Devotees of Mahamevnawa Dhammachetiya in Anuradhapura donate their hair for wigs at an event organised by the Indira Cancer Trust View(s): View(s):

Straight and wavy, black and grey, permed and coloured, long and short..all would go for one cause.

The hair donation campaign, a welfare project for cancer patients has grown rapidly since its inception a year ago, bringing hope to hundreds of women and girls battling cancer. The locks donated go to make wigs for patients suffering from cancer and would be the reason tomorrow for a young girl to look into the mirror and smile.

On April 30, the day following Vesak, the Anuaradhapura Mahamevnawa Dhammachetiya Monastery was crowded with 806 hair donors who lined up patiently to donate their hair to make wigs for cancer patients.

The programme called the kesha kalapa Puja was conducted under the auspices of Ven. Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thera, founder of Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery.

The event was organised by the Indira Cancer Trust and Ramani Fernando Salons with the support of the devotees of Mahamevnawa Monastery. Ven. Assaji Thera, resident monk at the Monastery speaking about the programme said, The devotees already knew about the ongoing hair donation campaign and they all wanted to contribute for the deed of merit.We witnessed the satisfaction of giving away from all age groups. According to Assaji Thera, the day demonstrated the quality of Mudita in Buddhism; the pleasure achieved by witnessing other peoples well-being as the donors were delighted to know that their hair would go to make some woman beautiful.

The volunteers from Indira Cancer Trust and Ramani Fernandos team supported the donors and at the end of the day 37kg of hair was collected. Speaking about the event with much enthusiasm veteran beautician Ramani Fernando says, We just expected around 300 donors but we were amazed to see so many when we reached the monastery. Twenty of my team did the haircuts. Most of them being Buddhist they were happy to be a part of the deed specially during the Vesak season. Every day three- four donors visit Ramani Fernando salons to donate their hair.

Many were the men and women who shaved off all their hair and little girls who were eager to donate hair for other girls suffering from hair loss as a result of the cancer treatment.

The only human hair wig manufacturer in Sri Lanka Lalith Dharmawardhana took up the challenging task of making wigs for cancer patients at a concessionary price. Each wig requires around 4-5 pony tails and should be sewed strand by strand which takes around two weeks to complete.

Hair donation an ongoing project The hair donation campaign is an ongoing project. Anyone interested in donating their hair for a cancer sufferer can contact any of the 14 Ramani Fernando Salons in Sri Lanka and walk in from Monday to Thursday after a prior appointment. Hair should be at least 12 inches in length, clean, free of oil, mousse, gel, hairspray or other material. The donor will receive a free hair cut and blow dry after the donation. To sponsor a wig for a cancer patient or to make a request to obtain a wig contact the Indira Cancer Trust helpline 0112363211 for more information.

The Indira Cancer Trust The Indira Cancer Trust is inspired by Indira Jayasuriya (daughter of the Speaker of Parliament, Karu Jayasuriya) who passed away after a brave battle with cancer, leaving behind her husband and two young children. The Trust founded in 2016 currently carries out 22 projects to upgrade the living conditions of cancer patients and their families. Teaming up with Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama and many other corporate sector contributors, the Trust has 275 active volunteers and trained counsellors dedicated to the well-being of patients. The Trust operates a cancer helpline 0112363211 which is responsive to all kinds of cancer care inquiries. Breast prosthesis for patients, educational scholarships, financial aid, support for medication and scans, counselling and therapy and special paediatric care projects are some of the programmes implemented by the Trust. Indiras sister, Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, a pioneer of the Indira Cancer Trust said, We hear heartbreaking stories and especially about mothers who are mentally down because of hair loss as the children are scared of their new look and reject them. It is amazing to see so many donors giving away their hair, a gesture of true care for the patients. Each month 12 wigs are given free of charge by theTrust and more with the help of sponsors. 461kg of hair and a total number of 7657 ponytails donated for the cause so far is a real sign that people truly care.Candidates named in city and school elections

With the passing of the filing deadline for the upcoming city and school election, several area governing bodies including the City of Tama and ...A 4-year-old rare Iberian lynx that was released into the wild of Portugal two years ago is spotted in Catalonia.

The Iberian lynx is no longer critically endangered but it remains to be on the list of endangered species.

Litio In Catalonia

For the last two years, the whereabouts of the young male Iberian lynx named Litio has remained unknown after the GPS tracker on his collar malfunctioned just two days after his release in southern Portugal. His last known location was at the Guadiana Valley in Algarve in 2016.

Amazingly, Litio is finally spotted in Catalonia, over a hundred years after the rare species was last seen in the region. The adventurous lynx traveled 1,100 kilometers or about 680 miles from where he was last seen.

What's even more impressive about the feat is that Litio was released into the wild before the 2016 release. However, he had to be recaptured as he struggled to adapt to the environment.

The authorities spotted Litio in a wooded area in Barcelona after several sighting reports, but they declined to state where he was exactly seen to avoid people from crowding around him. That said, conservation groups are planning to recapture Litio as his current location is too close to roads and urban areas.

Litio is the fifth Iberian lynx to have traveled from Portugal to Spain since 2010, but he is the first to be seen in Catalonia. Fortunately, now that is finally found, data from his collar could provide additional information on the route he has taken for the last two years.

The Iberian Lynx is a superpredator and an umbrella species for Mediterranean ecosystems. The experience of its reintroduction provides more knowledge about wild species dynamics and is a case study that can be helpful for other species at risk of extinction, authorities said in a statement.

Iberian Lynx On The Endangered Species List

Lito, born at a captive breeding center in Andalusia, was released into the wild as a part of an ambitious project to save the species from extinction. The Iberian lynx is actually the worlds most endangered feline species.

In 1965, the Iberian lynxes were already considered as rare species that are decreasing in numbers. By 1985, they have been declared an endangered species. However, in 2002, there were less than 100 individual Iberian lynxes, placing the species on the critically endangered species list.

After six decades of conservation efforts, the Iberian Lynxes are slowly recovering as their population continues to grow. Just last year, the number of Iberian lynxes grew to 589, and the species has been moved from the critically endangered to the endangered species list.

Some of the major threats to the species include habitat loss, illegal hunting, car hits, and decreasing food sources.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.NASA launched two CubeSats called MarCO-A and MarCO-B to planet Mars along with the robotic lander Insight last month.

MarCO-B Encounters Problem

The miniaturized satellites have been firing their propulsion systems as they steer toward Mars. During the process known as trajectory correction maneuver, spacecraft refine their path to the Red Planet.

The U.S. space agency revealed that MarCO-B encountered challenges during the course maneuver. The problem is due to a leaky thruster valve that caused small trajectory changes. NASA engineers, however, are optimistic that the two CubeSats will make it to Mars.

Mars Cube One Mission

The satellites, the first deep space CubeSats, make up the Mars Cube One (MarCO) mission. If everything goes well, the CubeSats will fly by planet Mars on Nov. 26, the same day the stationary lander Insight is set to land.

The CubeSats will attempt to transmit information to Earth during InSight's entry, descent, and landing operations, albeit the satellites do not play a crucial role in the success of the Insight mission.

MarCO is a mission on its own and the satellites will navigate to Mars independent of Insight, with their own course adjustments on the way.

MarCO Mission Objectives

The main objective of the $18.5 million MarCO mission is to show that CubeSats, which are currently restricted to Earth's orbit are capable to explore interplanetary space.

"Our broadest goal was to demonstrate how low-cost CubeSat technology can be used in deep space for the first time," said John Baker, from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. "With both MarCOs on their way to Mars, we've already traveled farther than any CubeSat before them."

The satellites were not intended to collect science data but to test experimental CubeSat systems, which include the satellite's radios, attitude control and propulsion systems, and folding high-gain antenna that can prove new technologies in deep space.

"We're nervous but excited," said Joel Krajewski of JPL, MarCO's project manager. "A lot of work went into designing and testing these components so that they could survive the trip to Mars and relay data during InSight's landing. But our broader goal is to learn more about how to adapt CubeSat technologies for future deep-space missions."

If the mission succeeds, it could pave way for a "bring-your-own" communications relay option that can be used by future Mars missions during the so-called Seven Minutes of Terror.

NASA said that verifying CubeSats as a viable technology for interplanetary mission and feasible on a short development timeline could lead to other applications for exploring and studying the solar system.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.After rising above $80 a barrel in May for the first time since November 2014, Brent crude oil prices have receded a bit in the past two weeks.

Still, for Louisianas hard-hit energy industry, the markets brief flirtation with that long-elusive benchmark offered some reason for optimism, even though oil producers in the Gulf of Mexico are proceeding cautiously.

Our economy has leveled off, and were looking for higher prices that will help us, but it all comes down to exploration in the Gulf, said Frank Fink, the economic development director for oil-dependent St. Mary Parish.

There is some activity, Fink added. The question is: Is it enough to bring the oil field back to where it was? I dont think so. Not at the moment.

Thats the question being asked throughout Louisianas oil patch. Crude prices are almost 50 percent higher than a year ago, buoyed in part by geopolitical problems faced by Iran and Venezuela. But many in Louisianas oil and gas industry are still holding their breath, waiting for an increase in drilling activity to begin lifting their bottom lines.

+3 Even at $65 a barrel, rising oil prices not yet jump-starting hard-hit Louisiana industry GULF OF MEXICO  Dressed in work boots, blue overalls and a hard hat, Rep. Steve Scalise, the U.S. House majority whip, took in the view from 

Im glad that our customers are starting to make money, especially with the major oil companies, but I can tell you today that the trickle-down theory has not happened, Todd Hornbeck, head of Covington-based Hornbeck Offshore Services, a marine transportation and oil field services company, said last week at the Louisiana Energy Conference in New Orleans.

I really think this market is going to start to stabilize, Hornbeck added, but were still going to have a lot of volatility from quarter to quarter.

Brent crude prices averaged $72 a barrel in April, up $6 from March and the first time average monthly prices surpassed $70 a barrel since late 2014. Looking ahead, federal forecasts suggest prices will average $71 a barrel for 2018 and fall to $66 a barrel in 2019.

On Friday, West Texas Intermediate crude, the U.S. benchmark, closed at almost $66 a barrel in New York, up from about $46 a barrel last year. Brent crude, the international benchmark followed by many refineries, closed at nearly $77 a barrel in London.

The recent gains come despite rising U.S. production, thanks largely to lower-cost production at highly productive, cheap-to-drill shale formations being developed onshore, in areas such as the Permian Basin in western Texas.

U.S. oil production averaged 10.5 million barrels a day in April, 120,000 barrels more than in March, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The federal agency expects that figure to average 10.7 million barrels in 2018, up from 9.4 million in 2017, and climb to 11.9 million barrels in 2019.

Already, consumers are feeling the impacts of rising prices at the pump. With the summer driving season approaching, gasoline prices have been on the rise, and regular unleaded gas is forecast to average $2.90 a gallon this summer, nearly 50 cents higher than last summer.

But industry analysts and experts believe the recent run-up in crude prices was a symptom of issues facing oil-producing countries Iran and Venezuela, rather than a result of OPECs ongoing effort  first implemented in January 2017  to rein in a global oil glut.

Revived U.S. sanctions on Iran would make it more difficult for Tehran to sell its oil abroad, potentially leading to further price rises, at least in the short term. And in Venezuela, oil production has slid nearly 40 percent, to 1.4 million barrels per day, over the last four years as the countrys economy has fallen into a tailspin.

Still, the recent uptick in prices "is not going to push the needle in terms of a whole new wave of leasing activity or development activity, said David Dismukes, executive director of LSUs Center for Energy Studies.

Drilling activity in the Gulf has lagged during oils recent boom-or-bust cycle. Last week, only 18 rigs were drilling in the deepwater Gulf, according to figures from Houston-based Baker Hughes. Thats five fewer than last year, and down from 52 at the same time five years ago.

In all, 1,060 rigs were drilling in the U.S., which was up 144 from a year ago.

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Despite tepid drilling activity in the Gulf, federal officials say they see improvement.

Louisiana political veteran Scott Angelle, who has led the federal Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, a branch of the U.S. Interior Department that regulates offshore drilling, since last year, pointed to an increase in the number of permits for new wells that have been issued recently.

In fact, 15 new deepwater wells were permitted in April, bringing the total to 35 for the first four months of the year, almost twice as many as during the same period last year.

Angelle called it a leading indicator that theres some confidence in the marketplace.

Many experts say that higher energy prices are needed to restore the nearly 20,000 jobs that Louisiana's mining and logging sector, which includes the oil and gas industry, has shed over the past five years.

Still, Angelle has been working to realize President Donald Trumps vision for an energy revolution, including efforts to pare back drilling industry regulations.

Dozens of new restrictions were put in place by the Obama administration in the wake of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, which killed 11 men and spilled millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf. But industry leaders said the new rules added costs that hamper drilling activity.

The concerns and issues involve certain regulatory provisions that impose undue burdens on oil and natural gas operators, but do not significantly enhance worker safety or environmental protection, BSEE said in a notice published last month in the Federal Register.

Easing the regulatory burden could save oil and gas companies an estimated $95 million a year over the next decade. The 2010 oil spill cost BP tens of billions of dollars in clean-up costs, legal settlements and penalties.

In an interview, Angelle said he has targeted regulations that do not provide a level of safety but at the same time kind of steer investment away from the Gulf.

We didnt take a chainsaw to these regulations, he said. We used the scalpel. We were very disciplined.

Although the talk about rolling back regulations pleases industry executives, some environmentalists question whether the industrys leading regulator is putting too much emphasis on helping companies reduce costs, raising questions about whether safety is being compromised in favor of production.

With all respect, thats not (the BSEE director's) job. His job is to make sure everything is done as safely as possible, said Donald Boesch, president of the University of Maryland's Center for Environmental Science, who had a hand in shaping the post-BP spill safety reforms.

While there likely are ways to improve some existing regulations, making changes largely for economic reasons is the wrong approach, Boesch said, especially when it concerns key equipment that played a role in the BP disaster.

The cost of regulation is not a factor in (companies') decision to drill for more oil, and until oil gets back up to the $100-plus level, theyre not going to spend a lot of money in developing new oil and gas resources, he said. The premise that by reducing the burden, you can produce more energy for the nation, just doesnt make sense in terms of the numbers.

But in hard-hit St. Mary Parish, unemployment was about 6.6 percent in March, which was 2.2 percentage points better than a year ago. Fink, the parishs economic development leader, is hoping that by now, the industry has turned a corner.

Were just looking for a comeback, and we dont believe its going to be what it was, he said. Its going to be good, but not what it was, and thats been the story of our life here."

Everybody holds their breath and waits for the oil field to come back, he added. Its going to come back, but its not going to be what it was.Every driver who paid the fine on a New Orleans traffic camera ticket in the early years of the controversial enforcement program is owed a fuYou have permission to edit this article.

Edit ClosePurchases made via links on our site may earn us an affiliate commissionLouisiana lawmakers have less than two days to finalize a spending plan for the coming year as the Monday end to its second special session looms with a budget and tax measures still up in the air.

On Saturday, the Senate Finance Committee, after a more than six-hour delay from its scheduled start time, advanced its proposal for the budget that begins July 1. It would cover about $587 million of the state's looming $650 million fiscal cliff  more than the House has agreed to cover but not the entire gap that Gov. John Bel Edwards has asked lawmakers to fill.

"You can only spend what you have, and we have an appetite to only spend a certain amount," Senate Finance Chair Eric LaFleur, D-Ville Platte, said during the speedy hearing that ended with little public discussion. "This is what we decided on at the end of the day."

It would cut some dedicated funds from programs and some would be cut by as much as 10 percent, but the cuts aren't as deep as the House proposal that passed earlier in the week. LaFleur said the cuts total about $67 million.

Higher education and the popular Taylor Opportunity Program for Students, TOPS, would be fully-funded, and cuts to health care are explained as Medicaid savings in the Senate panel's version.

Edwards, a Democrat, was at the State Capitol as people waited for the Finance Committee to meet after hours of delays, but he did not testify.

The Legislature has been in a two-week special session, which is its sixth budget-focused extraordinary meeting since February 2016 and second this year, in an attempt to address the "fiscal cliff" the state faces when more than $1 billion in temporary taxes expire June 30. A special session earlier this year on the same topic collapsed after the House repeatedly rejected tax measures.

State legislators enter 'very important' weekend of work as special session's end draws near The Louisiana Legislature is in a race to the finish line, as the Monday end to its second special session draws near with no finalized budget

While lawmakers work to craft a spending plan to begin July 1, they are also debating the taxes that would replace part of the expiring revenue.

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Both are slated to be taken up on the Senate floor on Sunday, giving the House and Senate one day to work out any remaining disagreements on taxes and the budget before the special session must end.

Edwards vetoed a $28 billion spending plan that was adopted in the regular session, calling it "catastrophic" because of cuts to state programs and has pressed on lawmakers to adopt new tax measures to fill the gap. If a budget isn't passed by midnight Monday, the Legislature likely will be forced into yet another special session.

The House passed a new spending plan and it has signed off on a sales tax bill that would cover part of the gap, though issues remain between the more conservative lower chamber, which does not want to raise more than $400 million in tax revenue, and the Senate, which has sought to cover the entire gap at Edwards' urging to prevent deep cuts to state services.

It's unclear whether the House will agree to go above that. The Senate Finance proposal relies on $540 million in additional tax revenue, with other funding plugged by other dedicated sources.

The Rundown: Tax and budget bills move with session deadline near and more Louisiana politics news Today in The Rundown: The latest on the budget and tax measures as the special session end nears and more Louisiana politics news.

A Senate panel late Wednesday evening dramatically altered a House proposal to temporarily expand one-third of an expiring 1 percent sales tax through 2023. The House version of House Bill 27 would raise about $370 million. After it left the Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee, which removed some sales tax breaks for business and industry, HB27 would raise about $642 million.

Between now and midnight Monday, the two sides will have to reconcile their differences or end another session without addressing the cliff.

Adding pressure to the delicate budget-balancing act: The state has more than $260 million in mandatory new costs for the coming budget, including $36 million in Legislature-approved pay raises for some state workers and $10 million tied to a settlement over how the state treats the mentally ill in prisons.Rep. Kenny Havard, R-Jackson, right, answers questions about his HB20 concerning state sales and use tax and to provide for the applicability of certain exclusions and exemptions in the House Ways and Means committee as the legislature convenes in special session to fix the budget deficit Tuesday Feb. 20, 2018, in Baton Rouge, La.Jesse Duplantis, a televangelist based in Destrehan, asking for donations to purchase a private jet (screenshot via video on Jesse Duplantis Ministries site)Baton Rouge Democratic Rep. Ted James was cut off Thursday when he tried to make the point that the Republican House majority had sent a total of one bill to the Senate that addressed the fiscal cliff facing the states budget at the end of this month.

Oil City Republican Rep. Jim Morris, sitting in as chair in House Ways & Means committee, wanted to stick to the subject of the bill at hand in a hearing that had long gone off the rails as Republican members took pot shots at the very senators who the night before had beat up on House Majority Leader Lance Harris, of Alexandria, over that tax measure.

Its very clear we have conversations that go all around the world and when certain members make those same questions the red light goes up, lets stick to the story," James said, referring to the committee chairman's red button that cuts off the microphone. "What Im saying is that Im growing very weary and tired of it."

The subject at hand was a measure that gave a 1.5 percent increase in a tax credit covering 42 percent of the states individual taxpayers  workers with families making no more than $48,000 a year  at a cost of $21 million to the state.

House panel refuses increase in benefits for working poor with families Voting along party lines the Louisiana House Ways & Means committee shot down legislation aimed at relieving some of the sting of the cont

Sen. JP Morrell, D-New Orleans, pitched the modest increase to mitigate the sales tax increases being contemplated to cover a $648 million shortfall in the revenues necessary to cover promised state services for the fiscal year that begins July 1. Sales taxes are about the only way to raise immediate money for government. Households on the lower-end of the wage scale already spend about 10 percent of their money on taxes  about double what better-off folk pay.

Morrells proposal was shot down on a party-line vote in the Republican-dominated committee, though not a single person testified against it.

Moments before, the same panel rejected another bill that would make permanent a temporary 2015 reduction in tax rebates given businesses as an incentive to locate or expand in Louisiana. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson, whose agency is charged with attracting business, advocated for the permanent reduction that would have raised $23 million in the following fiscal year.

Sen. Jay Luneau, D-Alexandria, said after the vote that he knew the bill would fail in the House committee. His main complaint, however, was that while in the Senate not a single business lobbyist had been willing to negotiate or speak against the legislation. As much lip service as leaders give to the legislative process, theres very little conversation between the two chambers, he said.

We hear about process all the time. But, the process is you forward an idea, hear from everyone involved and then, together, come up with a solution, he said. Were not getting that.

Luneau is a member of the Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs committee, which Morrell chairs. On Wednesday night, Rev & Fisc heard the legislation to which James referred. Sponsored by Harris, the bill would retain a third of the penny of the sales tax set to expire at the end of the month. It would raise $365 million. Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards could cut $283 million, if thats what ultimately remains, from state spending to balance the budget by July 1.

Lets go home.

Senate panel advances sales tax bill; 'It won't pass' lower chamber in new form, House leader warns A Senate panel late Wednesday night dramatically altered a sales tax measure meant to shore up the state's finances ahead of a looming fiscal 

This is the compromise, Harris said, adding that his bill is the only measure that has a chance of passage before the special session adjourns Monday night.

Rev & Fisc then added to Harris measure an array of caps and sunsets to tax exemptions, such as requiring businesses to pay more sales taxes on utilities purchased, that went towards raising $279 million more, putting the total at $644 million. Morrell said the amendments should provide a starting point for negotiations.

Harris said he wouldnt support the legislation and doubted the House would either.

While arguing for senators to approve his measure unamended, Harris said his third-of-a-penny sales tax hike would take care of the looming budget crisis and enable to lawmakers to start the philosophical discussion that divides the Louisiana Legislature and state government: how big government should be; what services state government should provide; and how should those expenses should be paid.

Senate set to take up budget, tax measures Sunday with time winding down on special session Louisiana lawmakers have less than two days to finalize a spending plan for the coming year as the Monday end to its second special session lo

Lest we forget, however, the hole legislators are trying to fill comes from the temporary sales tax applied two years ago, now set to expire, that was supposed to give lawmakers time to work through those policy differences and cobble out a more solid financial system.

All this talk about conversation to bridge philosophical divides could be taken more seriously if legislators actually talk to one another.Legislature meets in special session to address the state's fiscal crisis Friday March 2, 2018, in Baton Rouge, La. Rep. Robert Shadoin, R-Ruston, appeals for the passage of HB8 on the House floor.Carla Allen and her boyfriend Gilbert Manny Ceaser liked to stay home, cook dinner and watch movies. We dont go out, said Allen, 25. Maybe a concert here and there or a movie. But nothing to grab headlines.

On April 22, the two were headed home for another quiet night when they inadvertently drove into the path of Charles Williams Jr., 25, a gunman on a three-hour, cross-town rampage that started in St. Roch and ended in Mid-City, police said.

Williams, who is accused of shooting six people that day, first injured three people after a domestic dispute in St. Roch, police said. He would later circle back around to shoot at police at the crime scene, hitting John Thomas, a deputy chief with the New Orleans Police Department.

From St. Roch, Williams drove to Elysian Fields Avenue, where he shot and killed 38-year-old Lil Ricky Goins, who was looking to buy picture hangers, authorities said.

By a little after 4 p.m., Ceaser, 24, had clocked off from a long Sunday shift in the kitchen at the Ruby Slipper Cafe on Canal Street. He got into the front passenger seat of Allens gold Mercury Milan sedan. Two friends, a couple, were in the back seat along with Ceasers toddler daughter Kennedi, who was strapped into her baby seat.

Allen drove out North Claiborne Avenue into the 7th Ward, then turned left onto Kerlerec Street. As another car approached in the opposite direction, she yielded for approaching traffic and looked over to see a gun pointed at her, held by a driver who looked like he had no soul, she said.

A bullet tore through her headrest and into Ceasers left jaw. Blood began spurting. Allen reached over with her right hand to apply pressure while trying with her left hand to steer the car away from the shooter, fearing more bullets. We were like, Does this guy know us? Is he trying to kill us?  she said.

The male passenger, who lived a block away, ran for help. The young woman unstrapped Kennedi and took her into the house. All Allen could focus on was applying pressure.

While her friends father got into the drivers seat and drove them to University Medical Center, Allen sat on top of Ceaser, applied pressure to his face and prayed for his life.

When they arrived at the hospital, the trauma team rolled Ceaser into the emergency room and a doctor stayed behind to attend to Allen, who was soaked in blood. As the gurney rolled away, she fell onto her knees and prayed some more.

Inside the operating room, doctors werent sure they could save Ceaser. He had lost an enormous amount of blood, and they had trouble stanching the bleeding because the bullet had blown through both the carotid and vertebral arteries.

Before the large-caliber bullet came to a stop in the right side of his neck, where it remains, it also severed his spinal cord between his second and third vertebrae, leaving him completely paralyzed and dependent on a ventilator to breathe.

As Allen has learned, those vertebrae are the bodys motherboard and injuries to them can often be fatal on their own, even without severe arterial damage.

Yet Ceaser never went into a coma and was alert within three days of surgery. He now can drink through a straw, a recent achievement. But he cant yet speak because of the collar that wraps around his neck to support his spine.

He does communicate, however. When he wants to get someones attention, he makes a clicking sound. Though his jaw is a mess of wire and rubber bands, he can mouth words well enough that Allen can understand.

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Sometimes when Im sleeping (at the hospital), Ill hear, 'Click click click click,'  she said. And the nurses will say, Sorry to wake you, but we dont know what he wants right now. 

He also smiles a lot. He tells anyone who visits that things will be OK. If they ask what they can do, he mouths one word: Pray.

Allens bosses at the New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity, where she worked as a receptionist, put her on leave as long as possible, but recently she gave up the job so that she could continue spending 20 hours a day at the hospital.

Doctors have told Ceaser that once they are able to control the leakage of his cerebral-spinal fluid, they will schedule one more surgery, to stabilize his neck.

Though there are excellent rehab facilities in New Orleans, none take ventilator-dependent patients.

Allen has learned that there are facilities that help to wean patients like Ceaser from a ventilator so that they can go through rehab. But none are located in this city, which doctors tell her has limited resources to help them, despite the high level of gun violence in the city.

Some of those who survive gunshots, like Ceaser, will need a high level of resources for years to come. The family doesnt know how and where they will be able to access what he needs.

Right now, Allen gets at least four hours of relief a day from Ceasers cousin, Domonique Lemieux, 31, part of Ceasers close-knit extended family, headed by his grandmother Barbara Howard. Howard and her late husband raised Ceaser and his three older siblings after his mother died from a blood clot when he was 4.

Neither Lemieux nor Allen remembers any arguments with Ceaser, who is easygoing to a fault. Hes so peaceful, Allen said. Hes always been.

Ceaser was particular about certain things. He would always verify any disputed facts in a conversation. And he was notoriously tidy. Hed mop the floor to remove a smudge; hed fold any clothes left on the bed after a girlfriend or a cousin chose an outfit for the day. And he never took a day off from showering.

Even now, with a shaved head and a drain in his head for his spinal fluid, he will start clicking if he doesnt get a regular bath.

Recently, Lemieux, who works as a counselor, asked Ceaser about the man who shot him. Have you thought about forgiving him? she asked.

Yes, I already did, Caeser answered, as tears fell from his eyes. Ive been praying for him.

Lemieux was aghast. Really? she said. Because were still struggling with this.

She went home and talked with the whole family about it. Most of them are still angry. They want vengeance. She grapples with that, too. And Im not the one lying in the bed," she said. "Im not the one who hasnt seen his precious daughter for a month. Im not the one who has to make clicking sounds to get our attention.

Somehow, she said, her cousin has maintained his serenity, even under the worst of circumstances.A man accused of the shooting death of 35-year-old Hebert Foster on Mother's Day was arrested Friday morning, New Orleans police announced.

Donnell Brown III, 21, surrendered to officers in the 1800 block of Tchoupitoulas Street with an attorney present, the NOPD said.

He was wanted on a count of second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder in the May 13 attack that killed Foster and injured a 15-year-old girl at Duplessis and Lafreniere streets.

Foster was pronounced dead on the scene after NOPD officers found him suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in the middle of the street. Officers also found a female victim suffering from a graze wound to the leg.

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The shooting occurred a block away from where the annual Mother's Day second-line parade had marched earlier in the day, and Foster was reportedly killed over a dispute involving a woman, according to family members.

In a press conference following the shooting, Ed Buckner, head of the Big 7 Social Aid and Pleasure Club, and Darren West, Foster's 50-year-old cousin, said in a press release that the dispute did not involve the social club's members.

Can't see video below? Click here.The periodic controversies that have dogged the Jefferson Parish School Board over the past two years have cost the school district's board more than just a lot of time and attention. It also has piled up $89,000 worth of legal fees to date, due largely to the actions of one member, and the figure is likely to rise substantially.

From July 2016 to April 2017, the board paid the law firm of Phelps Dunbar more than $31,000 to defend the system in a harassment suit.

In February of this year, the board paid another firm, Berrigan Litchfield, nearly $58,000 to investigate allegations against then-Superintendent Isaac Joseph.

Legal fees are a part of doing business for a system that employs nearly 7,000 people and has almost 50,000 students spread across 90 schools. The school system budgets about $1 million annually for legal services. But these latest fees are unique in that they stem directly from actions taken by one person.

Bombastic board member Cedric Floyd is at the center of both, having been accused of the harassment and having prompted the investigation into Joseph's conduct.

In the harassment case, former board secretary Sharon Hunter filed an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission complaint and later sued the school system and the board in 2017, alleging that the administration had refused to protect her from Floyd's harassment.

Hunter claimed Floyd barraged her with text messages and phone calls, including outside of work time, and that he isolated her from other employees and bullied her.

The individual board members, including Floyd, were dismissed from the suit, but Hunter's complaint against the administration remained. The School Board voted in April to settle the suit, paying Hunter $60,000.

Floyd has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection with the case. On Tuesday, however, the board will vote on a motion to censure him for the "inappropriate conduct" detailed in Hunter's suit.

To date, the school system has paid out $31,824.26 to Phelps Dunbar to defend the suit, but the last bill was dated April 2017. Board President Mark Morgan said he expects that bill to go up.

"Prior to settlement negotiations, attorneys' fees were approaching $75,000," he said. "But I don't know what the final bill is."

Court records show that more than 70 documents were filed in the court case after that last bill.

In 2015, the board paid attorney I. Harold Koretzky $26,000 to investigate Hunter's claims. The board then declined to consider the lawyer's report, which remained secret until it was filed as part of Hunter's lawsuit and reported on by The Advocate.

The investigation into Joseph also was prompted by Floyd, who said in August that he thought Joseph may have violated board policy and state law. In September, the board hired Berrigan Litchfield to look into the allegations. The firm's report was completed early this year. Berrigan Litchfield submitted a single bill for the investigation in February, spelling out the 297.7 hours that firm employees spent working on the project, plus costs for incidentals.

The school system has refused to release the report, citing attorney-client privilege.

Joseph has never seen a copy of it.

"I have not received an official copy of the report," he said. Attorneys for the board told him they didn't have to give him a copy, he said.

Nevertheless, the entire investigation was a sham, Joseph said.

"It was a smear campaign," he said. The allegations, which Joseph said he had seen, "were all frivolous."

Nevertheless, the charges also likely spelled the end of Joseph's tenure. The first African-American superintendent of the Jefferson system, Joseph was hired by a fractious board in 2015, with Floyd as one of his main champions. But after his first 18-month contract expired, he was not awarded any performance-based bonuses, and the board voted to give him only another 18-month contract.

Late last year, it became apparent that some members of the board wanted Joseph gone. And when Floyd moved to suspend him pending the outcome of the investigation, it became clear that Joseph had lost the support of his former ally.

More legal bills are likely coming. At its May meeting, the board voted to hire Phelps Dunbar to defend it in a second harassment suit based on Floyd's actions. The board also voted to hire a second attorney, Randall Kleinman, to represent Joseph and Floyd in that same suit.A small church in my home town always struggles for funds. Like many, the country church relies on parishioners to give money and time to keep the parish going. Its a constant struggle as the number of churchgoers dwindles and the community ages.

The church has tried different ways to encourage giving: weekly direct debits from parishioners who have children at the local church-run school, for example. That has never taken off because many prefer to put cash in the collection plate as it passes from pew to pew.

Digital collection plates may be the answer. Electronic church giving, enabled by smartphone Apps developed by ASX-listed Pushpay Holdings and others, has potential. Digital giving is widely used in the United States and more Australian churches are trialling the technology.

A San Francisco archdiocese, for example, uses technology that allows parishioners to donate money or share prayers from their computer or smartphone. Similar services let worshippers decide to make regular donations or give to a specific church project, via their phone.

Tithing technology is making a difference: churches that use electronic-giving technology report a lift in the size and frequency of donations. It takes time to get parishioners, particularly older ones, used to the concept. But enabling parishioners to donate in real time, via their phone, to a church project has great appeal.

The technology can do more than raise funds. A church, for example, could provide an electronic daily prayer in return for a small daily donation. Or use the smartphone App to better connect parishioners and encourage them to share prayers and support.

In time, the technology could help churches build more-connected communities and appeal to younger parishioners. Smartphone Apps also appeal to churchgoers who carry less cash, but are able to give via technology.

PushPay Holdings is an interesting play on this trend. The New Zealand-based company dual listed on ASX in October 2016 through a $54-million Initial Public Offering (IPO). Pushpays $2.10 issued shares have raced to $3.92, capitalising it at just over $1 billion.

Chart 1: Pushpay Holdings

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 Tony Featherstone is a former managing editor of BRW, Shares and Personal Investor magazines. The information in this article should not be considered personal advice. It has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on information in this article, consider the appropriateness and accuracy of the information, regarding your objectives, financial situation and needs. Do further research of your own and/or seek personal financial advice from a licensed adviser before making any financial or investment decisions based on this article. All prices and analysis at May 31, 2018.We expect strong support for WSA shares around current levels and believe its time to buy back in. Also, nickel prices remain well supported. If the stock can breach $4, then we would be looking for levels back up between $4.50 and $5. The shares closed at $3.38 on May 31.

Mayne Pharma Group (MYX)



A speculative buy, in our view, as this pharmaceutical company has previously disappointed us several times. However, it looks like a low is in place on the chart. Recent price action has been bullish and MYX looks ready to jump higher from these low levels. The shares finished at 77.5 cents on May 31.

HOLD RECOMMENDATIONS

ANZ Bank (ANZ)



During the past several weeks, ANZ, in our view, has looked the strongest of the big four banks. ANZ has bounced off several key technical levels and were confident a low is in place. It now appears ready to trade higher again. The shares closed at $27.21 on May 31.

Origin Energy (ORG)



Shares continue to trend well and we dont see any signs this uptrend will soon end. If investors can tolerate the recent share price swings and hold on, then we expect ORG to head towards a key resistance level near $11.50. The shares finished at $9.60 on May 31.

SELL RECOMMENDATIONS

Caltex Australia (CTX)



CTX peaked this year at more than $36, but the selling since then has been brutal. Based on this price action, we would expect further downside back towards support near $27. The stock closed at $29.42 on May 31.

Wesfarmers (WES)



The shares are back to levels last seen five years ago. In that time, the company has experienced stiffer competition, and this technical level will offer strong resistance. In our view, the share price is likely to head south from here. The stock closed at $45.56 on May 31.



The gaming company is in a long term downtrend and the recent earnings downgrade triggered a sharp sell-off. Stiffer competition and a tougher regulatory landscape have adversely impacted the companys bottom line.

Olivers Real Food (OLI)



Since listing on the ASX in June 2017, this healthy fast food chain has downgraded earnings guidance several times. Some stores have failed to perform and delays in opening dates have impacted revenues. The company has a track record of missing its forecasts, so we prefer to invest our money elsewhere.



Orions share price performance correlates with a significant advancement at its Prieska zinc-copper project in South Africa, including the release of a maiden mineral resource thats exceeded expectations. Theres potential for a VMS (volcanogenic massive sulphide) body, and heightened anticipation surrounds the comprehensive bankable feasibility study thats currently underway. Just recently, Independence Group (IGO) has increased its stake in Orion to 11.1 per cent as part of a collaborative working relationship in South Africa.

Sipa Resources (SRI)



Sipa has signed a landmark earn-in and joint venture agreement with Rio Tinto, which will see it acquire an interest in SRIs Kitgum Pader base metals project in northern Uganda. Rio Tinto has the option to sole fund a three stage earn-in totalling up to $US57 million. The agreement encompasses Sipas entire Ugandan tenement package, forming a joint venture to explore, evaluate and, if feasible, develop one or more mines.

HOLD RECOMMENDATIONS

Highlands Pacific (HIG)



Highlands has always been a stock for the patient investor. That patience has been rewarded by the announcement of a $A15 million share placement and a $US113 million nickel and cobalt streaming agreement with Canadian battery metals company Cobalt 27 Capital Corp. The transactions represent a fundamental transformation for Highlands, which will emerge in a much stronger financial position, debt free and with enhanced access to cash flows from its Ramu nickel-cobalt mine in Papua New Guinea.

Vango Mining (VAN)



Vango is undertaking an extensive drilling program at its Plutonic Dome gold project in Western Australia. The plan is to expand the K2 resource base and the potential mine life of the proposed operation via targeted drilling programs. The programs are designed to expand the resource base, while simultaneously drilling to define and extend the high grade Trident gold deposit, with a view to stand alone underground mining and processing. The market has already responded to initial positive results.

SELL RECOMMENDATIONS

Australian Vanadium (AVL)



The company is developing a vertically integrated VRFB (Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries) business. Its built around AVLs advanced Gabanintha deposit in Western Australia, comprising battery distribution, installation agreements and a proposed battery electrolyte production business. AVLs previous tests have demonstrated excellent concentrate recovery, while providing defined inputs into the next phase of work. Investors might look to lock in some profits given the stocks strong price run.

Gascoyne Resources (GCY)



A slow and steady performer over recent years, Gascoyne has methodically progressed towards first gold production at its Dalgaranga project in Western Australia. A further re-rating is possible once steady-state production is achieved. Project commissioning is almost complete, about six weeks ahead of schedule and under budget. The project boasts characteristics that have resulted in lower-than-normal capital and operating costs. Investors might look to lock in some profits given the stocks strong price run.

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Please note that TheBull.com.au simply publishes broker recommendations on this page. The publication of these recommendations does not in any way constitute a recommendation on the part of TheBull.com.au. You should seek professional advice before making any investment decisions.In yet another example of how a sector once bestowed market darling status can quickly descend to market dog, ASX lithium miners, red hot throughout most of 2016, went ice cold for the second half of 2016 and well into the first half of 2017, recovering through the end of the year only to fall again in the first half of 2018. The story behind the rise and fall might seem familiar to Aussie investors left stranded in the wake of the collapse of the mining boom. The demand for iron ore skyrockets; suppliers ramp up production to benefit from the price rise; oversupply conditions set in; and in the face of shaky demand, the price of the hot commodity declines, dragging sector stocks down with it.

Ardent mega-trend followers noticed article after article touting the coming electric vehicle revolution, powered by the Lithium-Ion battery. Investors began to flock to any company even remotely connected to lithium production, regardless of what kind of lithium or where it was produced. Prices rose, and oversupply concerns set in as the worlds biggest lithium producers planned production ramp-ups. Short-sellers moved in and two of our top lithium stocks fell, only to rise and then fall again.



What it seems some Aussie investors are missing is the fact that, unlike the iron ore stocks, both the demand for and the price of lithium remain robust. From Bloomberg New Energy Finance, here is a demand forecast for EV (electric vehicle) sales.

Annual global electric vehicle sales are forecast to hit 24.4 million by 2030



>> BACK TO THE NEWSLETTER: Click here to read other articles from this weeks newsletterThank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading.Behind its sweetness, susu kental manis (condensed milk) is putting your childrens health at risk if it is consumed in excessive amounts.

Experts said such milk products mainly consisted of sugar and milk, which could increase the risk of diabetes and obesity in children.

Our body has a certain tolerance level and research found that consuming sugar, which is more than 10 percent of total energy, may lead to decreasing insulin sensitivity that will trigger hyperglycemia [high blood sugar], Rita Ramayulis, an author and nutritionist, told kompas.com.

In the piramida gizi seimbang (Balanced Nutrition Pyramid), milk is included as a source of protein. Eight grams of protein is equal to one portion of egg, fish and tempeh.

Milk is supposed to contain around 8 g of protein and calcium about 250 g, said Rita. Based on the pyramid, the allowable amount of sugar for children is one to two tablespoons, which is equal to 26 g.

Read also: Obesity among Asia-Pacific children is a growing health crisis - researchers

If a child drinks two glasses of condensed milk daily, just like the balanced nutrition chart advises, the consumption of sugar will exceed the balanced daily meal for children, Rita said.

Moreover, too much sugar will also be bad for childrens teeth.

Children who consume too much sugar in milk form and do not brush their teeth afterwards will get cavities, she added.

The official website of the Health Ministry states that including milk as part of Indonesians daily consumption requires further research.

This is because it still needs more information on data prevalensi intoleransi laktosa (lactose intolerance prevalence data), milk allergies and contaminated milk due to poor storage. Meanwhile, from an economics perspective, the price of susu yang difortifikasi (fortified milk) is still too expensive for some. (wir/asw)Embattled conglomerate Toshiba on Friday completed the $21 billion sale of its prized chip unit to an investment consortium, a move seen as crucial to keeping the Japanese firm afloat.

The deal had been delayed while Chinese regulators examined whether it could violate anti-trust laws, but they finally granted approval in mid-May.

"Toshiba hereby gives notice that the closing of the sale has been completed today as scheduled," the group said in a statement.

It added that the deal was worth about 2.3 trillion yen ($21 billion).

The business was sold to K.K. Pangea, a special-purpose company controlled by a consortium led by US investor Bain Capital.

The Bain-led group includes US tech giants Apple and Dell, as well as South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix.

Toshiba said it was reinvesting a total of 350.5 billion yen in Pangea, acquiring a 40.2 percent stake.

Read also: Toshiba said it was reinvesting a total of 350.5 billion yen in Pangea, acquiring a 40.2 percent stake

The sale and reinvestment will give Toshiba a pre-tax profit of 970 billion yen, though the bump was already built into forecasts it announced last month.

Toshiba agreed in September to sell its memory chip business in a bid to stay afloat after multi-billion-dollar losses.

It struggled after the disastrous acquisition of US nuclear energy firm Westinghouse, which racked up billions of dollars in losses before being placed under bankruptcy protection.

In order to survive and avoid delisting, the cash-strapped group decided to sell the chip business -- the crown jewel in a vast range of businesses ranging from home appliances to nuclear reactors.

Toshiba said last month it had bounced back into the black, avoiding a humiliating delisting from the Tokyo stock exchange.

The firm booked a record net profit of 804 billion yen for the year ending March 31, compared with a loss of 965.7 billion yen a year earlier.

That marks the first net profit for the firm in four years, and was helped by one-off revenue from tax cuts linked to the sale of its nuclear units.Two rarely-seen drawings of Tintin from the comic book album "The Red Sea Sharks" sold for $422,000 (364,000 euros) on Saturday in Dallas, Texas, the auction house selling the sketches said.

A pencil-on-paper 35.2x50 cm (13.8 x 19.6 inch) design and a 30.7x47.7 cm India ink copy, drawn by the Belgian cartoonist known as Herge in 1957, however fell short of the estimated price of between $720,000 to $960,000.

Heritage Auctions' spokesman Eric Bradley told AFP that the set had been bought by a Brussels-based collector who "wished not to be identified at this time".

Herge, whose real name was Georges Remi was himself from Brussels, a city which also plays home to Tintin and often forms the initial backdrop to his adventures.

Although Saturday's auction was held in Texas, it was livestreamed at various locations including at Heritage Auction's Dutch headquarters outside Utrecht.

The two drawings depict page 58 of the intrepid boy reporter's adventures in the 19th album by Herge, known as "Coke en stock" in French and published in 1958.

Read also: Going to the moon with Tintin

They show 12 panels starting with Tintin, his crusty sea-going friend Captain Haddock, his faithful canine companion Snowy and the eyepatch-wearing Estonian pilot Piotr Skut looking out to sea.

The action seamlessly moves underneath their ship, the S.S Ramona, where an attempt by a frogman to plant a limpet mine is cut short as he is hit on the head by a dropping anchor.

The mine is then eaten by a ravenous shark which swims off emitting a series of hiccups.

Original Herge drawings rarely appear on the open market as the artist did not have to sell his original artworks, but occasionally gave them away to close friends as gifts, Heritage Auctions added in a statement.

Herge gave the set on auction Saturday to a "Scandinavian friend" in the 1970s who later sold it to a buyer "in a German-speaking part of Europe," Brussels-based comic art expert Eric Verhoest said.

Earlier this month a rare original 1939 illustration from the comic book album "King Ottokar's Sceptre" sold for more than 600,000 euros at an auction at Christie's in Paris.

The record sale for an original page of Herge's drawings dating from 1937 was set in 2014 at over two million euros.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Mohammed Aly Sergie (Bloomberg) Dubai, United Arab Emirates  Sun, June 3, 2018 21:45 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e7627cc 2 World media,Qatar,Al-Jazeera,lay-off Free

Al Jazeera Media Network eliminated some jobs in its latest round of restructuring, trimming the news channel that is at the heart of a yearlong spat in the oil-rich Persian Gulf.

Dozens of departments and management positions have been merged or eliminated, including the heads of technical and editorial standards, training, and other roles across 10 divisions, according to a document dated May 24 signed by Al Jazeeras acting Director-General Mostefa Souag and seen by Bloomberg. It didnt provide a total number for jobs lost.

An Al Jazeera spokesman didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt severed diplomatic and trade links with Qatar on June 5 of last year, accusing the country of financing terrorism and having close ties with Iran. Qatar denies the charges. The four countries then issued 13 demands that Qatar must comply with to resolve the rift, among them the closing Al Jazeera and all its affiliates.

Al Jazeera has been trimming its workforce for at least three years, part of broader cost-cutting measures in Qatar sparked in part by lower oil prices. The network fired about 500 employees and shut down its US television operations in 2016. Al Jazeera employs about 3,000 people, according to its website.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Rizal Harahap (The Jakarta Post) Pekanbaru  Sun, June 3, 2018 11:11 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e748d30 1 National Densus-88,counterterrorism,Riau,Universitas-Riau,radicalism,campus,radicalization-in-campus Free

The National Polices counterterrorism squad, Densus 88, arrested three Riau University alumni for an alleged terror attack plot during a raid at the campus Gelanggang Mahasiswa FISIP building in Pekanbaru on Saturday.

The alumni were identified as Z from the Tourism Department who enrolled at the campus in 2005, D from the Communications Science Department (2002) and K from the Public Administration Department (2004).

Weve defused four explosive devices, which were allegedly constructed by Z, said Riau Police chief Insp. Gen. Nandang.

The Densus 88 team also confiscated explosive powder, an air rifle and two bows along with eight arrows, he added.

Read also: Densus 88 raids Riau University building

The state universitys rector, Aras Mulyadi, said the three had been staying at the Gelanggang Mahasiswa FISIP buildings secretariat for a month.

As far as we are concerned, nothing suspicious happened there, especially activities pertaining to terrorism, he said at a press conference as quoted by kompas.com.

Gelanggang Mahasiswa are central student facilities that are available at every large university in Indonesia. The facilities are home to theaters, martial arts studios and student newspapers. Many alumni, who were "student activists", often still hang out at the facility years after they had graduated. (vla)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Rizal Harahap (The Jakarta Post) Pekanbaru  Sun, June 3, 2018 14:20 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e75487d 1 National Universitas-Riau,terrorism,suicide-attack,bomb,Pekanbaru,Riau,Densus-88,#SurabayaBombings Free

Along with the arrest of three Riau University alumni during a raid at the campus Gelanggang Mahasiswa FISIP building on Saturday, the National Polices counterterrorism unit, Densus 88, also seized several weapons and explosive material, police say.

Riau Police chief Insp. Gen. Nandang said four bombs had been defused, which reportedly had similar explosive power to the ones used in the terror attacks in Surabaya, East Java, last month. The police also confiscated gunpowder, two bows along with eight arrows and several hand grenades.

The bombs were allegedly constructed by the suspect [identified as Z]. Z graduated from the Tourism Department and allegedly learned how to make explosive devices from the internet. He allegedly used social media to teach others [to make bombs] and to campaign for suicide bombings, Nandang explained.

Alongside Z, later identified as Muhammad Nur Zamzam, who enrolled to the university in 2005, the two other alumni are Rio Bima Wijaya from the Communication Science Department and and Orandi Saputra alias Kalek from the Public Administration Department who enrolled in 2002 and 2014, respectively.

They had been staying in the Gelanggang Mahasiswa FISIP building for a month, Nandang added. They are from Indragiri Hulu and Kampar regencies in Riau.

Police said Zamzam allegedly planned to blow up Riau Council and House of Representatives buildings. (vla)

Editor's note: The earlier version of this article contained a mistake about the number of suspects. On June 2, the police arrested three alumni of Riau University but only declared one, identified as Muhammad Nur Zamzam or Zamzam, a suspect. The other two, Rio Bima Wijaya and Orandi Saputra alias Kalek, were arrested but as of Monday afternoon have not been named suspects. We have also updated the names of the arrested men.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Srinagar, India  Sun, June 3, 2018 19:15 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e75c5fc 2 World India,Pakistan,kashmir,clash Free

India and Pakistan exchanged fire across the Kashmir border on Sunday, officials said, killing two guards and ending a days-old agreement to honour a ceasefire in the disputed region.

Seven civilians were also injured at Aknoor, near the contested territory's border with Pakistan, in a barrage that claimed the lives of two Indian border officers.

India's Border Security Force said its troops returned fire after Pakistani border rangers in Sialkot fired into Kashmir without provocation in the early hours of Sunday.

"The injured soldiers were immediately evacuated to a military hospital where they later succumbed (to their injuries)," border force spokesman Manoj Yadav told AFP from Jammu, the winter capital of the restive Himalayan region.

Pakistan authorities did not immediately comment on India's allegations or whether any damage was sustained on their side of the border.

The salvo of gun and mortar fire came just four days after Pakistan and India promised to end ceasefire violations in Kashmir.

The two sides had pledged to respect the conditions laid out in a 2003 ceasefire "in letter and spirit" following some of the highest levels of violence in Kashmir since the pact was signed.

Both sides blame each other for violating the 15-year ceasefire.

Dozens have been killed in border clashes in recent months along the border that divides the territory into zones of Indian and Pakistani control, leaving residents terrified.

The renewed commitment to the ceasefire had encouraged thousands of civilians to return to their homes after weeks of shelling.

Kashmir has been divided since the end of British colonial rule in 1947 and both New Delhi and Islamabad claim the former Himalayan kingdom in full.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Sakher Abou El Oun (Agence France-Presse) Gaza City, Palestinian Territories  Sun, June 3, 2018 09:42 1229 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e743679 2 World Israel,Israel-Palestine-conflict,Palestine,Palestinians,nurse,war,Gaza Free

Israeli aircraft pounded 10 militant targets in Gaza in response to Palestinian projectile fire, its army said Sunday, shattering a ceasefire reached just days ago after the worst flare-up since a 2014 war.

The latest escalation came hours after thousands of Palestinians attended the funeral of a young female volunteer medic killed by Israeli fire in violence on the border in southern Gaza.

Israeli "fighter jets targeted 10 terror sites in three military compounds belonging to the Hamas terror organisation in the Gaza Strip," the army said in a statement early Sunday.

"Among the targets were two Hamas munition manufacturing and storage sites and a military compound," the army said.

The strikes were retaliation to rockets fired at Israel, as well as "various terror activities approved and orchestrated by the Hamas terror organisation over the weekend," the army said.

The army listed a series of attempted attacks at soldiers on the border fence, as well as "damaging security infrastructure and igniting fires in Israeli territory with the use of arson kites and balloons".

There were no immediate reports of casualties in Gaza.

On Saturday evening, militants in the Palestinian enclave fired two projectiles at southern Israel, where air raid sirens sent residents to bomb shelters.

The Iron Dome aerial defence system intercepted one of the projectiles, while the other was believed to have fallen short of its target and hit within Gaza, according to the army.

Early Sunday, two more projectiles were separately launched at Israel. Both were intercepted, the army said.

Mourners call for revenge

No group in Gaza claimed responsibility for the projectile attacks, which came a short while after the Saturday funeral of Razan al-Najjar, 21, a volunteer with the Gaza health ministry, who was fatally shot in the chest near Khan Yunis on Friday.

Ambulances and medical crews attended the funeral, with Najjar's father holding the white blood-stained medics' jacket she wore when she was shot, as mourners called for revenge.

Gazans have since March 30 staged border protests demanding the return of Palestinians to land they fled or were expelled from during the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation, now inside the Jewish state.

The demonstrations have been accompanied by smaller clashes as youths hurl stones at Israeli soldiers and attempt to breach the border fence, at times laying explosive devices on the fence or throwing grenades.

Palestinians in the besieged coastal enclave have also been using kites carrying cans on fire to set ablaze Israeli fields, torching extensive patches of agricultural land near Gaza.

Following the funeral, several Gazans were wounded in clashes east of Khan Yunis, health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said.

The Israeli army said "a terror cell" had infiltrated from southern Gaza. Soldiers shot at the Palestinians, who returned to the enclave.

The weekend launches were the first since Israel struck scores of militant sites in Gaza earlier this week in retaliation for a barrage of rockets and missiles fired from the territory.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said after the strikes that Israel's military had delivered the "harshest blow" in years to Gaza militants.

Palestinian Islamist groups in Gaza, including the strip's rulers Hamas, said a ceasefire deal was reached after the flare-up, although there was no confirmation from Israel.

'War crime'

Addressing Najjar's death, the UN envoy for the Middle East, Nickolay Mladenov, said in a Saturday tweet that "Medical workers are #NotATarget!" and that "Israel needs to calibrate its use of force and Hamas need to prevent incidents at the fence."

The Palestinian Medical Relief Society said Najjar was shot "as she was attempting to provide first aid to an injured protester", with three other first responders also hit by live fire on Friday.

"Shooting at medical personnel is a war crime under the Geneva conventions," the PMRC said in a statement, demanding "an immediate international response to Israeli humanitarian law violations in Gaza".

Najjar's death brings the toll of Gazans killed by Israeli fire since the end of March to 123.

The demonstrations and violence peaked on May 14 when at least 61 Palestinians were killed in clashes as tens of thousands of Gazans protested the US transfer of its embassy in Israel to the disputed city of Jerusalem the same day.

Low-level demonstrations have continued since.

Speaking at Najjar's funeral, Khaled al-Batsh, one of the protest organisers, called on Gazans to "continue the return marches and break the (Israeli) siege with peaceful tools".Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Nizar Manek (Bloomberg) Nairobi, Kenya  Sun, June 3, 2018 16:14 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e75678c 2 World Ethiopia,Navy,proposal Free

Landlocked Ethiopia is planning to build a navy, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said during a briefing of the heads of the countrys National Defense Force.

Following the efforts made to build capacity of our national defense, we built one of the stronger ground and air forces in Africa, the ruling party-funded Fana Broadcasting Corp. reported Abiy as saying on Friday. We should build our naval force capacity in the future.

Two calls to the mobile phone of Abiys national security adviser, Abadula Gemada, didnt connect.

Ethiopia currently has a civilian Ethiopian Maritime Training Institute on Lake Tana. It trains more than 500 marine engineers and electro-technical officers each year and plans to increase this to more than 1,000 officers annually, according to its website.

Abiys government in May agreed to develop Port Sudan on the Red Sea and agreed with Djibouti to swap shares in state-owned ports, airlines, and telecommunications. It also agreed to acquire land at Kenyas Lamu Port for logistical facilitation, according to a joint communique issued after a meeting between Abiy and Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta.

Earlier this year, Ethiopia took a stake in a port in Somaliland, a semi-autonomous part of Somalia that aspires to statehood and borders Djibouti. Somaliland will host a naval base for the United Arab Emirates.The body of 20 year-old Claudia Gomez was repatriated on Thursday to her home town of San Juan Ostuncalco in western Guatemala.

Donning traditional clothing and carrying floral wreaths, her bereaved family and a throng of mourners marched under heavy rain for an hour from her parents' home to the cemetery.

"It is really sad what happened with this girl," said 40-year old housewife Maria Ventura. "We knew her and she was a good person, that is why we understand the pain and we're here to support."

Gomez was shot on May 23 in south Texas by an officer who opened fire after several people "rushed him," the Border Patrol said. In an earlier statement, it had said migrants had attacked the agent with blunt objects, and that Gomez was among the assailants.

"I'd like to know who killed her and have that person right here in front on me," said Gilberto Gomez, after his daughter's burial.

Many of the funeral attendees asked for justice and improved treatment of immigrants in the United States. President Donald Trump has said he plans to build a wall along the southern border with Mexico and often rails against immigrants who enter the country illegally.

"We feel a great pain and sadness and want justice," said 38-year old farm worker Mateo Carreto.

In the months after Trump took office, the number of migrants caught along the U.S.-Mexico border and Mexico's southern border with Guatemala fell dramatically. But arrests have crept back up since.

Data from Mexico's migration institute shows deportations of Guatemalans fell in the first three months of 2017 compared to the prior year, but they have been rebounding close to 2016 levels to nearly 13,200 in the first quarter of 2018.

Poverty, as well as deepening violence from criminal gangs and drug traffickers, has driven hundreds of thousands of Central Americans to try and cross the U.S. border illegally or seek asylum.

"We regret that a country that fosters peace commits these heartless acts against a defenseless girl that was just looking for a better future," said the mayor of Ostuncalco, Juan Alberto Aguilar.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Arya Dipa (The Jakarta Post) Bandung  Sun, June 3, 2018 20:17 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e75fc8a 1 National bandung,fire,scavenger Free

At least 40 semi-permanent structures made of plywood were destroyed by a fire on Jl. Gedebage, Gedebage district, Bandung, on Saturday night. No casualties were reported.

The structures were home to about 50 families who work as scavengers.

Bandung Fire and Rescue Agency head Ferdi Ligaswara said the area ravaged by fire was about 6,000 square meters "We are still investigating the cause of the fire. There are no casualties," Ferdi added.

Firefighters extinguished the fire at 9:50 p.m.

Bandung Police chief Sr. Comr. Hendro Pandowo said the fire had been caused by a burning stove. (evi)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Josh Smith (Reuters) Seoul  Sun, June 3, 2018 19:23 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e75c823 2 World Bashar-Assad,Syria,North-Korea,kim-jong-un Free

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said he plans to visit North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, North Korean state media reported on Sunday, potentially the first meeting between Kim and another head of state in Pyongyang.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet HE Kim Jong Un," Assad said on May 30, North Korea's KCNA news agency reported, using the initials of the country's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

There was no immediate comment from the Syrian presidents office.

Assad reportedly made the remarks as he received the credentials of North Korean Ambassador Mun Jong Nam.

Pyongyang and Damascus maintain good relations, and United Nations monitors have accused North Korea of cooperating with Syria on chemical weapons, a charge the North denies.

Both countries have faced international isolation, North Korea over its nuclear weapons programme, and Syria over its tactics during a bloody civil war.

Since the beginning of the year, however, North Korea's Kim has launched a flurry of diplomatic meetings with leaders in China and South Korea, and is scheduled to hold a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Singapore on June 12.

Since taking power in 2011, Kim has not publicly met with another head of state in North Korea.

"The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political caliber and wise leadership of HE Kim Jong Un," Assad said, according to KCNA. "I am sure that he will achieve the final victory and realize the reunification of Korea without fail."

According to South Korea's foreign ministry, North Korea established diplomatic relations with Syria in 1966, opening its embassy in Damascus. Syria opened its mission in Pyongyang in 1969.

Close military cooperation between the two countries began when North Korea sent some 530 troops including pilots, tank drivers and missile personnel to Syria during the Arab-Israeli war in October 1973.

"The Syrian government will as ever fully support all policies and measures of the DPRK leadership and invariably strengthen and develop the friendly ties with the DPRK," Assad said, as quoted by KCNA. (Additional reporting by Hyonhee Shin in Seoul and Ellen Francis in Beirut, editing by Larry King)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Reuters) Washington, United States  Sun, June 3, 2018 22:15 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e762f69 2 World trump,Russia-meddling,Robert-Mueller,investigation Free

US President Donald Trump's attorney Rudy Giuliani said on Sunday the president probably has the power to pardon himself but does not plan to do so.

Asked whether Trump has the power to give himself a pardon, Giuliani said, "He's not, but he probably does." Giuliani added that Trump has no intention of pardoning himself," but that the US Constitution, which gives a president the authority to issue pardons, "doesn't say he can't."

Giuliani said on ABC's "This Week" program, "It would be an open question. I think it would probably get answered by, gosh, that's what the Constitution says."

Giuliani also said it is an "open question" whether Trump would sit for an interview with Robert Mueller, the special counsel investigating potential collusion between Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and Russia, but that the president's lawyers were leaning against having him testify.

Mueller is also looking into whether Trump unlawfully sought to obstruct the Russia investigation.

House Republican Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy said on CNN on Sunday that no president should pardon himself.

Trump's lawyers argued in a letter to the special counsel that the president could not have obstructed the probe given the powers granted to him by the Constitution, the New York Times reported on Saturday.

In the Jan. 29 letter, Trump's lawyers contended that the Constitution gives the president the power to "terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon," the Times reportedShare this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Washington, United States  Sun, June 3, 2018 18:50 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e75bdac 2 World trump,Ramadan-2018,iftar,White-House Free

United States President Donald Trump is expected to host a dinner next week to honor the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, a White House official told the New York Times on Saturday.

The Times reported that although a guest list was not available, the dinner is scheduled to take place on Wednesday.

With the planned dinner, the White House is "restoring a tradition that Trump had abandoned during his first year in office, the Times said.

Each of former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton held Iftar dinners during their presidencies.

The tradition of hosting a White House Iftar dates back to at least December 1805. when former President Thomas Jefferson hosted Tunisian ambassador Sidi Soliman Mellimelli during the American conflict with what were known as the Barbary States.

In 2015, during the presidential campaign, then Republican candidateTrump called for a "total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States," an idea that prompted one of his rivals to call him "unhinged."



33 kg gold smuggling case: Absconding Tsering Wangel Ghale turns himself in

Absconding Tsering Wangel Ghale, one of the suspects in the 33 kg gold smuggling case, surrendered himself before the Morang District Court on Sunday.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Reuters) Istanbul  Sun, June 3, 2018 09:50 1229 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e743d89 2 Business Uber,Turkey,Recep-Tayyip-Erdogan,ride-hailing-application,taxi,taxi-protest Free

Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan has said ride hailing app Uber is finished in Turkey, following pressure from Istanbul taxi drivers who said it was providing an illegal service and called for it to be banned.

About 17,400 taxis operate in Istanbul, home to about a fifth of Turkey's population of 81 million people, and since Uber entered the country in 2014 tensions have risen sharply.

Erdogan's statement came after new regulations were announced in recent weeks tightening transport licensing requirements, making it more difficult for drivers to register with Uber and threatening a two-year ban for violations.

"This thing called Uber emerged. That business is finished. That does not exist anymore," he said in a speech in Istanbul late on Friday.

"We have our taxi system. Where does this (Uber) come from? It is used in Europe, I do not care about that. We will decide by ourselves," added Erdogan, who is running for re-election in three weeks.

Uber had no immediate response to his comment. After the transport licensing changes were announced it said it wanted to work with all sides to improve transport and to be "a true partner to Turkey for the long term".

Uber said that about 2,000 yellow cab drivers use its app to find customers, while another 5,000 work for UberXL, using large vans to transport groups to parties, or take people with bulky luggage to Istanbul's airports.

It declined to reveal the number of Uber users in Turkey, where it operates in Istanbul, and in the resort towns of Bodrum and Cesme in the summer months.

Earlier this year, Istanbul's taxi drivers took Uber to court accusing it of hindering their business and operating illegally.

Several reports said that Uber vehicles, drivers and customers were either mistreated, threatened or faced violence by yellow taxi drivers.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Bandung  Mon, June 4 2018

At least 40 semipermanent buildings on Jl. Gedebage, Cisaranten Kidul subdistrict, Gedebage, Bandung, West Java, were burned down on Saturday evening. No casualties were reported from the incident.

The buildings, which were made from plywood and had tarps as roofs, were the settlements for at least 50 families who worked as scavengers.

Bandung Fire and Disaster Mitigation Agency head Ferdi Ligaswara estimated that the burned down settlement complex covered 6,000 square meters.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Novan Iman Santosa (The Jakarta Post) Singapore  Sun, June 3, 2018 10:14 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e744d4d 1 SE Asia Indonesia,Philippines,Malaysia,Southeast-Asia,Islamists,militants,border-areas,joint-patrol,Ryamizard-Ryacudu Free

Indonesia will hold a land patrol training exercise to expand the existing trilateral patrol mechanism with Malaysia and the Philippines around the Sulu Sea to curb the movement of Islamist militants.

We will hold the training exercise after Idul Fitri at company level focusing on antiguerilla warfare, urban warfare and how to tackle snipers, Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said at a bilateral meeting with his Malaysian counterpart, Mohamad Sabu, on Saturday.

Ryamizard said the militants in southern Philippines were good marksmen and it was imperative for the three countries to overcome this issue to reduce casualties.

They have good skills, so we must also improve the skills of our soldiers and equip them with better rifles, he added.

The meeting, held on the sidelines of the 17th Asia Security Summit: Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, also served as an introductory meeting for Sabu who was appointed defense minister following the shock May 9 victory of the former opposition coalition, Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope), which toppled the long-ruling Barisan Nasional (National Front) that had ruled Malaysia since its independence in 1957.

In order to curb the spread of militants, Indonesia initiated the trilateral mechanism to conduct maritime and air patrols, which Ryamizard said have been quite effective in reducing security threats.

The patrols are focusing on the porous triangular borders around the southern Philippines, eastern Malaysia and northern Indonesia, especially around Kalimantan and Sulawesi islands.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Manila, Philippines  Sun, June 3, 2018 14:13 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e7538c2 2 SE Asia duterte,Philippines,UN,human-rights-abuse Free

President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday told a United Nations rights expert to "go to hell" over criticism of the Philippine leader for threatening the country's top judge.

Duterte's latest profanity-laced diatribe came after Diego Garcia-Sayan, the UN special rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, said the president's statements against former chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno were a "vicious attack" on the judiciary.

Sereno's colleagues voted to remove her from office last month, shortly after Duterte openly called her his "enemy" and demanded her swift ouster.

"Tell him (Garcia-Sayan) not to interfere with the affairs of my country. He can go to hell," Duterte told reporters in Manila, insisting he had nothing to do with Sereno's dismissal.

"He is not a special person and I do not recognise his rapporteur title."

Duterte, 73, has lashed out in the past -- often using less-than-parliamentary language -- at critics of the deadly drug war he launched soon after coming to power in 2016.

Several of his opponents have since been ousted, punished or threatened.

Police say they have killed 4,279 drug suspects in the anti-narcotics campaign but rights groups believe the actual number is three times higher.

Sereno was one of the few remaining high-profile critics of the crackdown at the time of her ouster.

The UN's Garcia-Sayan said Friday that Duterte's public threats against Sereno appeared to have had a "chilling effect" on her colleagues in the judiciary.

"The use of such derogatory language... sends a clear message to all judges of the Philippines: in the so-called 'war on drugs', you're either with me or against me," Garcia-Sayan said.Global airlines are increasingly aiming for ultra-long haul flights and Airbus SE said it expects more carriers to order planes that can fly from one end of the Earth to the other.

The European planemaker sees demand for between 50 and 100 orders for a longer-range version of the A350 model, capable of flying from Sydney to London nonstop, Airbuss chief salesman Eric Schulz said in Sydney Sunday.

Airbus and its rival Boeing Co. are talking to Qantas Airways Ltd., Australias biggest carrier, for a plane that can fly the Sydney-London route without a break, company officials said. Called Project Sunrise, it would put Rio de Janeiro, Cape Town, New York or Paris within direct reach of Australias eastern seaboard, according to Qantas. Air New Zealand Ltd. could also consider a longer-range version of the A350, Airbuss Schulz said.

The heart of that long-range market will continue to be in Asia, Randy Tinseth, vice president of marketing for Boeing commercial, said separately in an interview in Sydney.

The Chicago-based planemaker is still in talks with Qantas about the exact plane that can fly Sydney to London nonstop, Tinseth said. One long-range market with particular potential is Asia-Latin America, he said, adding its hard to say how many of those aircraft would be sold worldwide beyond Qantas.

Read also: The longest flights in the world

A wave of ultra-long flights that will get you halfway around the world in one hop is pushing aircraft manufacturers to come up with planes and engines that can ferry people for 19 and 20 hours nonstop. This year, Qantas started a Perth to London 17-hour service using a Boeing Co. Dreamliner and Singapore Airlines Ltd. last month said its reviving the Singapore-New York service, a 19-hour flight that will become the worlds longest.

Airbus is assessing all options, including reducing seat capacity, adding more fuel cells and modifications to engines, Schulz said.

Qantas Chief Executive Officer Alan Joyce has challenged both Airbus and Boeing to build a jet by 2022 that can fly 20 hours fully loaded from Sydney to London without a break.

Joyce has described nonstop flights to New York and London from Australian cities such as Sydney and Melbourne as the last frontier of aviation, after which all of the worlds major cities will have non-stop air links. Options for making such long flights more bearable would include introducing a new four-class structure, with part of the cargo hold utilized for sleeping berths, Joyce has said.

The airlines first Perth-London flight started in March, signaling the beginning of the end of the so-called Kangaroo Route, which has seen planes make the journey from Europe to Australia in a series of hops since the advent of aviation.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Charlotte Van Ouwerkerk (Agence France-Presse) The Hague, Netherlands  Sun, June 3, 2018 18:37 1228 a7124a1e87885b91d244660f9e75b7fa 2 News English,Dutch,language,student,university,Education Free

The growing popularity of English as a medium of instruction at Dutch universities is ringing alarm bells among local lecturers and students, with some now even calling for government intervention.

As Shakespeare's mother tongue spreads in lecture halls across the county's 14 universities, the Dutch education department is finalising a proposal to deal with the matter.

Britain's exit from the European Union next year has only accelerated the phenomenon, with international students flocking to the Netherlands which provides an ideal base for those wishing to study in English within the EU.

Some 90 percent of the Dutch population speaks English, to the envy of many of its less anglo-competent neighbours.

To add to the attraction, many local universities are much cheaper than their British or US-based counterparts.

English usage is particularly dominant at Master's degree level.

Some "65 percent of bachelor's degrees are in Dutch while 15 percent of master's degrees are in Dutch," education ministry spokesman Michiel Hendrikx told AFP.

That some 85 percent of all master's degrees are presented in English riles the largest teachers' association, whose acronym BON stands for "Better Education Netherlands" in Dutch.

"The Dutch language is gradually disappearing from campuses," lamented BON's chairman Ad Verbrugge, stressing the "seriousness" of an "unprecedented situation in Europe."

Read also: Why using English doesn't make me any less Indonesian

'Languicide'

Pressed by heated debate from campus to parliament, the Dutch Education Ministry will soon publish a letter "with the minister's position on the subject," Hendrikx said.

This follows a report in February by the Royal Dutch Academy for Arts and Sciences (KNAW), which blasted the Netherlands for "failing to properly protect and uphold the quality of Dutch as a language and over-estimating the importance of English".

"Universities are forced to offer courses in English to remain in the race" for international students in Europe, said Verbrugge, a philosophy professor at the University of Amsterdam.

"We are witnessing a 'languicide'," he told AFP.

"We always advocate diversity but here we're killing a minority language."

"We must preserve all European languages and cultures ... Dutch students no longer master their native tongue," he added.

Read also: Essay: English as a hybrid language

Lawsuit

Verbrugge and BON have now launched a lawsuit against two Dutch universities they accuse of killing the Dutch language through the 'Anglicisation' of courses.

The eastern Twente University and the southern University of Maastricht offer two master's degree courses in psychology exclusively in English.

BON called it an "impoverishment of the teaching quality and a dangerous abandonment in the learning of the Dutch language."

"We must call the universities to order because they're violating the law," which states that all lesson and exams must be in Dutch, the union said.

An exemption can only be made when the subject matter was directly related to a different language such as English, for instance in international business management studies.

BON says the effects of such a language policy can even be seen in the labour market.

Young expatriates graduating in English at Dutch universities are often tempted to remain in the Netherlands which has a flourishing economy and pleasant living environment, thus taking jobs from local graduates, it said.

Verbrugge said BON was unsure whether the lawsuits would be successful "but at least we've raised the issue for discussion."

Many Dutch students agree, saying they did not understand the value of "pretending to be English in front of a lecturer who is just as equally Dutch."33kg gold smuggling case: Court remands Ghale in judicial custody

The Morang District Court has remanded Tsering Wangel Ghale, one of the suspects in the 33kg gold smuggling case, in judicial custody.Unfortunately, The Content Is Not Here

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Home PageBids for airport navigation services likely this month

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (Caan) is set to launch the second package of the Gautam Buddha International Airport Project in Bhairahawa by June, after better-than-expected progress of the ongoing civil works.Calls to make In Vitro Fertilisation affordable

Fertility Society of Nepal (FESON) has urged the government plan a policy on In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) technology to make it cost effective.The family of a Florida man killed by a sheriffs deputy has been awarded 4 cents by a federal jury.

The jury ruled Thursday that 30-year-old Gregory Hill Jr. was 99 percent responsible for his death because he was drunk and the St. Lucie County Sheriffs Office was 1 percent responsible. TCPalm reports the jury awarded Hills relatives $4, of which they get 1 percent.

Deputy Christopher Newman and his partner went to Hills home in 2014 for a loud music complaint. After they knocked on the garage and front doors, Hill opened the garage. When the door started back down, Newman fired, killing Hill. An unloaded gun was found in Hills pocket.

Tests showed Hills blood-alcohol content was 0.40, five times the driving limit.

Newman was not indicted, but Hills mother filed a wrongful death lawsuit against both Newman and his boss, St. Lucie County Sheriff Ken Mascara. Newman was cleared and Mascara was given a small portion of blame.

Police say Hill pulled out a gun, but the familys attorney, John Phillips, disputed that claim, questioning how the gun ended up in Hills back pocket before he died.

Id have rather seen a zero than have to tell the children that their pain and suffering for losing their father is only a dollar, Phillips, told NBC News.

On the jurys decision, Phillips added, Either it was punitive or they viewed these childrens pain as virtually worthless.

The St. Lucie County Sheriffs Office released a statement the day the verdict was reached from Mascara: We are pleased to see this difficult and tragic incident come to a conclusion. Deputy Newman was placed in a very difficult situation, and like so many fellow law enforcement officers must do everyday, he made the best decision he could for the safety of his partner, himself, and the public given the circumstances he faced.

(AP)Execution of pacts with India picks up pace

The understandings reached between Nepal and India during the state visit exchanges of Prime Minister KP Oli and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi have gained momentum. Both sides have activated their bilateral mechanisms to ensure that the agreements between the two countries are honoured, according to officials.President Donald Trump is considering giving U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman more authority over the U.S. outpost that handles Palestinian affairs, five U.S. officials said, a shift that could further dampen Palestinian hopes for an independent state.

Any move to downgrade the autonomy of the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem  responsible for relations with the Palestinians  could have potent symbolic resonance, suggesting American recognition of Israeli control over east Jerusalem and the West Bank. And while the change might be technical and bureaucratic, it could have potentially significant policy implications.

As president, Trump has departed from traditional U.S. insistence on a two-state solution for the Mideast conflict by leaving open the possibility of just one state. As his administration prepares to unveil a long-awaited peace plan, the Palestinians have all but cut off contact, enraged by Trumps decision to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem.

The deliberations come as Friedman, who has pushed for changes to the consulate since he arrived in Israel last year, faces growing indignation in the U.S. over partisan comments and other actions in which he has publicly sided with Israel over its critics. On Thursday, a top Democratic lawmaker even suggested Friedman should be recalled after he waded into domestic U.S. politics on Israels behalf, telling an Israeli newspaper that Democrats have failed to support Israel as much as Republicans.

For decades, the Jerusalem consulate has operated differently than almost every other consulate around the world. Rather than reporting to the U.S. Embassy in Israel, it has reported directly to the State Department in Washington, giving the Palestinians an unfiltered channel to engage with the U.S. government.

That arrangement was relatively clear-cut before Trump moved the embassy. Until Trumps decision in December to move it from Tel Aviv, the United States did not recognize Jerusalem as Israels capital. The Jerusalem consulate provided services to Americans in Jerusalem and also served as the de facto U.S. embassy to the Palestinians, who claim east Jerusalem for the capital of a future independent state.

But since Trump earlier this month moved the embassy to Jerusalem, the situation has become more complicated. Now the U.S. maintains an embassy in one part of the city and a separate consulate less than a mile away, potentially creating confusion about who has ultimate authority if, for example, an American citizen needs help and turns to the U.S. government.

No final decision has been made about what changes to make to the consulates chain of command, a decision complicated by the consulates unique circumstances. But the embassy, run by Friedman, is expected to end up with ultimate authority over the consulate, officials said. They werent authorized to discuss the matter publicly and requested anonymity.

Dan Shapiro, the former U.S. ambassador to Israel, said such a move would be perceived as undermining Palestinians claims to sovereignty and statehood aspirations, because it would suggest that Washington considers the Palestinian Authority to be under Israels jurisdiction. Otherwise, Shapiro said, why would it expect the Palestinians to talk to the U.S. through its mission to Israel?

They dont want to deal with the U.S. embassy to Israel as their channel, said Shapiro, now a scholar at Israels Institute for National Security Studies. They want their voice to be heard directly in Washington.

Typically, the head of a consulate, known as a consul general, reports to the ambassador, who has chief of mission authority over all U.S. posts in the country. In contrast, the consul general running the Jerusalem consulate has historically had his or her own chief of mission authority. The closest comparable case to the Jerusalem situation is the U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong, which also has its own chief of mission who does not report to the U.S. ambassador in Beijing.

Friedman has advocated for having the embassy in Jerusalem subsume the consulate, officials said, although the State Department has ruled out that possibility. Other possibilities include allowing the consulate to retain some day-to-day authorities while letting the embassy set the direction for major policy decisions.

Staunchly pro-Israel and with close ties to the West Bank settler movement, Friedman is broadly seen by Palestinian leadership as lacking good faith in U.S. efforts to mediate a fair resolution to the Mideast conflict. But on the consulate issue, he has an ally in the White House in the form of national security adviser John Bolton, the officials said.

It wasnt clear precisely when the changes would be made, although one official said the administration is waiting until current Consul General Donald Blome leaves Jerusalem over the summer, possibly in July.

Regardless of any changes, the Jerusalem consulate will remain the primary U.S. point of contact for the Palestinian Authority and for Palestinians, including those in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip seeking visas or other U.S. consular services.

Consulate General Jerusalem continues to operate as an independent mission with an unchanged mandate from its historic Agron Road location, the State Department said in a statement.

Such changes would likely be carried out by Trump issuing new letters of instruction, which delegate authorities to ambassadors and chiefs of mission, to Friedman and whoever heads the Jerusalem consulate, the official said.

Separately, the Trump administration is also facing calls in Congress for the U.S. to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, the strategic plateau that Israel captured from Syria in the 1967 Mideast war. Although Israel annexed the Golan in 1981, the U.S. and others consider it to be disputed territory with its status subject to an eventual peace deal between Israel and Syria.

In recent months, however, Irans increasing involvement in Syria and growing presence in southern Syria near the Golan Heights have drawn alarm in Israel and elsewhere, leading some U.S. law- and policy-makers to believe that the Washington should end its official neutrality in a show of support for Israeli security in the face of a threat from Iran and its proxies.

Ideas under discussion range from flat-out recognition that the Golan is part of Israel to lifting restrictions on U.S. investment incentives for projects or more symbolic steps like including the area on official maps as part of Israel.

(AP)Competing U.N. Security Council proposals to respond to the escalation of violence in Gaza both failed Friday, starkly baring divisions that have paralyzed the U.N.s most powerful body.

After months of urgent council discussions about the violence, the U.S. vetoed an Arab-backed resolution that sought to explore ways to ensure international protection for Palestinian civilians, and there wasnt enough support to pass a U.S. resolution to condemn Hamas, the terrorist group that rules Gaza.

Ten of the councils 15 members voted for the Arab-backed resolution, drafted by Kuwait; four abstained. The U.S. was the sole yes vote for its resolution, though a majority didnt take any position; 11 abstained.

RT @USUN: U.S. vetoes Kuwaiti resolution on Gaza which refused to include Hamas: "It is resolutions like this one that undermine the UN's credibility in dealing with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict." pic.twitter.com/f2g60qHEW7  Nikki Haley (@nikkihaley) June 1, 2018

So far, the council hasnt been able to agree on so much as a press statement about what the U.N.s Mideast envoy has called the most serious increase in violence in Gaza since a 2014 war between Israel and Hamas.

This heavy silence is disastrous  for the world that is watching us, for the credibility of the council, for multilateralism, French Ambassador Francois Delattre said after voting for the Kuwaiti measure.

USUN's veto stopped it, and four friends of the US  UK, Poland, the Netherlands and Ethiopia  did not support it. American Leadership! @POTUS @nikkihaley  Jason D. Greenblatt (@jdgreenblatt45) June 1, 2018

In two months of mass protests at the Gaza border, over 115 Palestinians have been killed and thousands wounded by Israeli military fire.

Israel says its troops were defending its border and accused Hamas of trying to attack under the cover of the protest.

Hamas and other terrorists bombarded southern Israel with rockets and mortars Tuesday, and Israel responded by striking targets throughout Gaza. Hamas said Wednesday it had agreed to a cease-fire with Israel.

The Kuwaiti measure asked U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to report on ways to ensure Palestinian civilians safety, protection and well-being, including recommendations about an international protection mechanism. The proposal also emphasized the need for accountability and independent investigations into the events in Gaza.

It deplored the recent rocket barrage, without specifying who was behind it, though Hamas and a smaller Islamic militant group have claimed responsibility.

U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley called it grossly one-sided for deploring the use of any excessive, disproportionate and indiscriminate force by the Israeli forces while not mentioning Hamas.

US Ambassador to the UN @nikkihaley lays it out clearly for the Security Council. You can vote for the #Kuwait resolution or you can vote for our resolution. You either support Hamas or not. pic.twitter.com/QTAq7vvv76  Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) June 1, 2018

The resolution places all blame on Israel and is wildly inaccurate, she said. Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon called the proposal unworthy of consideration.

It is true the residents of Gaza need protection  they need protection from Hamas, he said. Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since the Islamic group seized control of Gaza in 2007.

The Palestinian envoy rejected Israeli and U.S. claims that the measure was biased: If anything, the draft did not go far enough in addressing the nightmare the Palestinian people are living, Ambassador Riyad Mansour said. Neither Israel nor the Palestinians had a vote on the measures.

Kuwaiti Ambassador Mansour Al-Otaibi said the councils lack of action will increase the sentiments of despair among the Palestinians.

The U.S. proposal, meanwhile, said nothing about Israeli force or protecting Palestinian civilians, while casting blame on Hamas for violence, endangering civilians, and deteriorating conditions in Gaza.

It demanded that Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups stop all violent activity and provocative actions in Gaza and called for a report on the recent actions of terrorist organizations such as Hamas in the coastal strip.

This resolution rightly places responsibility where it belongs, Haley said. But some other council members, including Russia, said the U.S. measure wasnt evenhanded.

A few countries abstained from voting on either proposal.

Todays resolutions contain elements that are either imbalanced or too vague to be viable, said British Ambassador Karen Pierce.

(AP)NATOs secretary-general says the alliance wouldnt come to Israels defense in case of attack by arch enemy Iran.

Jens Stoltenberg told the magazine Der Spiegel in comments published Saturday that Israel is a partner, but not a member and that NATOs security guarantee doesnt apply to Israel.

Stoltenberg says NATO isnt involved in Mideast peace efforts or in conflicts in the region.

He spoke at a time of rising Israel-Iran tensions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently intensified his criticism of a 2015 agreement between world powers and Iran that offered Tehran sanctions relief for curbs on its nuclear program. The U.S. withdrew from the deal last month.

Israel and Iran have also clashed militarily over Irans military presence in Syria.

(AP)At the graduation ceremony of the Al-Hoda kindergarten in Gaza, pre-schoolers carrying mock guns and rifles simulated terrorists storming an Israeli building on Al-Quds Street, capturing a child dressed in stereotypical garb as an Orthodox Jew and killing an Israeli soldier.

To the sounds of loud explosions and gunfire, the children, dressed in uniforms of the Islamic Jihads Al-Quds Brigades, attacked the building, placing a sign reading Israel has fallen in Hebrew and Arabic on the back of the soldier, who lies prone on the ground, and leaving the stage with their hostage.

Then, some of the children performed on stage, with an address by Yasser Arafat playing on the speakers.Millions of travellers are routinely gripped with unease when they set off on their travels by plane. But those with aerophobia  a paralysing fear of flying  could be in for a shock if they do not tell their holiday insurer.

About one in six people are affected by this severe form of flying nerves, yet half of aerophobes still choose to fly, according to analysis from market research group YouGov.

The Mail on Sunday has found that failing to inform an insurer about the condition in advance can mean a claim being denied if a holidaymaker then pulls out of a trip.

Jamie Leyshon from Llantwit Fardre, South Wales is a self-confessed aerophobe and lost hundreds of pounds when he was forced to cancel a trip due to the condition

Simon Williams, head of travel at comparison website Compare Cover, says: Many people do not realise a fear of flying is considered by some insurers to be a pre-existing condition. In failing to declare it, sufferers are leaving themselves wide open to a claim being denied if the condition stops them from flying.

Declaring the condition beforehand can result in premiums being pushed up fourfold. But it can be a price worth paying.

Jamie Leyshon from Llantwit Fardre, South Wales is a self-confessed aerophobe and lost hundreds of pounds when he was forced to cancel a trip due to the condition.

The 46-year-old criminal law executive developed a fear of flying as a teenager and has not been on a plane since his honeymoon to Italy 18 years ago with wife Rhian.

Jamie was forced to cancel a holiday he booked with friends to Spain after realising he could not get on the flight. He lost around 400 as his insurer considered the phobia a pre-existing condition which had been reported to his doctor.

He adds: The only way I have dealt with my aerophobia is to avoid flying altogether.

Williams says: Being honest with an insurer means you are less liable to having your policy declared invalid should you need to claim. If it is likely that your condition could prevent you from stepping on a plane it is vital to declare it beforehand.

This is because aerophobia might result in a holidaymaker requiring medical assistance mid-flight  or in a worst-case scenario a plane needing to divert so that treatment can be sought. Williams adds: Costs are likely to be incurred  which may then pass to you.

Failing to inform an insurer about the condition in advance can mean a claim being denied if a holidaymaker then pulls out of a trip

A 46-year-old aerophobe determined to reach Florida by air would pay between 53 and 97 for a two-week travel policy according to Compare Cover. Someone without the phobia would be quoted between 19 and 25.

The insurer also compared the cost of travel insurance for someone with aerophobia and another with asthma. A 40-year-old with the phobia wishing to fly to Spain for two weeks would pay on average 24, whereas an asthma sufferer would pay 17. Flying phobia can be addressed. London-based psychologist Anna Albright says there are three main actions.

She says: The obvious one is to not fly at all which is what a lot of people do. They can also take a fear of flying course with one of the airlines. A third option is to undergo cognitive behavioural therapy with a psychologist and find a way of overcoming the anxiety.

Albright says that over-prepping for a flight is the biggest mistake that aerophobes make. She says: It is unhelpful to think through all the possible scenarios that could happen on a flight for weeks ahead.

A psychologist can also help you cope once aboard by encouraging you to focus on specific activities. For example, doing a crossword to engage the brain can be a good coping mechanism.

One in six people are affected by this severe form of flying nerves, yet half still choose to fly

DREAD OF DRIVING

Many people develop a fear of driving, perhaps following an accident or illness. But this may only affect their motor insurance premiums if the DVLA  the Government motoring authority  considers the problem serious and the insurer considers them a greater risk.

Dan Hutson is head of motor at website Comparethemarket. He says: When searching for car insurance, you are required to declare whether you have disclosed any medical conditions to the DVLA.

For certain conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, drivers are required to tell the DVLA. But for others, such as agoraphobia, you only need to do so if it makes you a riskier driver or if your doctor advises you to. With any mental health problem you should always talk with your doctor about whether you need to let the DVLA know.

There are no mental health problems that require drivers to give up their licence. Instead, the DVLA will judge cases on an individual basis. Failing to tell the DVLA about a medical condition which affects a persons driving can result in a fine up to 1,000.

Hutson adds: Disclosing a condition to the DVLA may affect motor premiums, but only if the condition influences a motorists driving ability and means their licence needs to be reviewed on a regular basis. This might mean that insurers view them as a greater risk.

He adds: As with any insurance policy, a claim could be invalidated if a policyholder has not disclosed all relevant information including a notifiable medical condition or a restricted driving licence.Writing a book is a horrible, exhausting struggle, like a long bout of some painful illness  according to author George Orwell.

Yet despite such a daunting challenge many still dream of penning a masterpiece  and embarking on a lucrative and rewarding career.

Here, we share tips from those who have written a book  including secrets on how to get one published and make some money.

Tracey Waples, a 52-year-old mother of two, invested 4,000 in a six-month course with Faber & Faber after embarking on a first novel

DEVELOP AN INITIAL IDEA

An idea - whether a clever plot, unusual character or inspiration from real life  is only the start.

Many novices launch into writing projects with great enthusiasm only to give up after a few weeks. They find their story soon runs out of steam or ends up getting lost in a vague plot. After an initial rush of energy they shelve the project.

Completing the task requires that you build a plot structure and take time to flesh it out. Even with a great idea and commitment to seeing it through, professional guidance is often essential.

The 25 Writers & Artists Yearbook 2018 provides details of writing courses that can help. Among the most highly regarded are those run by publishers such as Faber & Faber, Curtis Brown Creative and Penguin Random House. You might also be inspired by local adult education courses in writing which can be found on a website Hotcourses.

Tracey Waples, a 52-year-old mother of two, invested 4,000 in a six-month course with Faber & Faber after embarking on a first novel. It was worthwhile because it helped get her book ready for publication.

Tracey already had a character in her head for the book I Want Never Gets and believes having someone she could believe in was vital for success.

She says: Mulling the story over while out for walks helped prior to putting pen to paper. It made me discover that the main character was a nasty piece of work. But I did not know where the story was heading until it was completed. Writing can feel like uncovering a story already there  a bit like archaeology  but I found the expert guidance from the Faber & Faber course to be invaluable.

Tracey, who lives in Albury, Hertfordshire, adds: It felt pretentious calling myself a writer but being on a course surrounded by like-minded people eased that self-conscious concern. It is important not to be precious with a book and be prepared to rewrite sections until it feels right.

Self-help books on writing can also provide support. Among these are On Writing by Stephen King and Nail Your Novel by Roz Morris.

Morris says: Failing to finish a novel is a common problem. You must have a plot that carries you through to the end. Study other books in the genre you hope to write in  looking at key aspects such as the tricks used to keep a reader hooked.

Self-help books on writing can provide support including Nail Your Novel by Roz Morris

Tracey Waples book is published by Endeavour Media and will be available later this month.

WRITE FOR LOVE AND NOT MONEY

Aspriring authors have to accept that all the blood, sweat and tears which go into writing a novel may count for nothing. Dedication is essential.

Clare Empson struggled for ten years to get her book into shape before finally finding a publisher. Her debut, Him, is a dark love story that will be published by Orion on August 23.

The 50-year-old says: I would sacrifice weekends away with the family to make progress. I spent countless hours alone writing and rewriting. At one point it got me down and I wondered if it would all come to nothing. But I realised I loved writing too much. Would it make me happier if I simply stopped? The answer was a big no.

To keep motivated Clare started meeting up with two other writers and they still regularly get together to share thoughts and ideas.

The mother-of-three, who lives in Mere, Wiltshire, says: I also learnt that it was not simply a case of writing a book and then ending it. What comes next is a lot of rewriting  taking expert advice from agents who are skilled at publishing books. You should never stop looking to improve and make your novel sharper and getting the right pace for it.

Clare is one of the talented  and lucky  ones. She has signed a six- figure international book deal for her novel and a sequel through agent Curtis Brown. But she says money should not be the motivation for writing a book  there are far easier ways to get rich.

Clare Empson struggled for ten years to get her book into shape before finding a publisher

A first-time novelist might receive an advance of just 3,000 plus a cut of any sales  known as royalties  of some 8 per cent. The advance is recouped from royalties so the bigger this is the longer it will take to earn any royalties.

Writers can be dazzled by the exceptions such as Harry Potter author JK Rowling who is now worth 500 million. But the vast majority of authors do not make enough money to live off and write simply for love  keeping the day job going.

TAKE A DISCIPLINED APPROACH

A story idea is the easy bit. The hard part is sitting down to complete the book and find a publisher.

Famous novelists such as James Bond author Ian Fleming managed to write bestsellers in less than a month. But the skill and dedication to get to this level took years  with failure and rewrites part of the process.

Other greats such as W Somerset Maugham made the written word look easy to put down on paper  yet took laborious days of studying others to develop their skills. The 20th Century novelist took a decade before completing novel The Painted Veil.

Tracey Waples knows all too well the sacrifices required to write a novel. She would get up at 5.30 every morning so she could start penning her psychological thriller.

She says: For me the secret was to have a routine where I put aside time every morning to write. It was not about reaching a certain word count but instilling a disciplined habit even when I was not in the mood to write.

SEEK AN AGENT

Sam Copeland is a literary agent at Rogers, Coleridge & White in Notting Hill, West London. He receives 300 pitches a month  almost all of which end up in the bin. He might take on four new authors in a year.

He says: People will always want to write books. But to get it on the bookshelves what you really need is an agent.

Most publishers will not touch you without one. Also, an agent is key to making sure a book is in the best shape possible  and help you strike the best deal.

Copeland believes writers should avoid so-called vanity publishing  where you end up paying a publisher to get your book on the market. A good agent, he says, will edit your book for free.

But he warns: There is no way to sugar coat this. For 99.5 per cent of manuscripts sent in the answer is no. We are not right every time but we are skilled at spotting something with potential. I am afraid that rejection is part of the writing journey.

Fifty Shades Of Grey writer EL James is worth 40million

Copeland adds: There are no hidden secrets  and gimmicks do not work. It does not matter what the subject is  a script must stand out as exceptional. It must be a book you find hard to put down. A budding author must write with confidence and authority so the words feel right where they sit on the page.

The fortunate handful that are accepted usually hand over 15 per cent of all the money they make from their books to the agent.

What Copeland and other agents typically want is a brief synopsis, along with the books first three chapters. Details of agents can be found in the industry bible Writers & Artists Yearbook 2018.

GET OUT AND SELL

Writing a book is just the start. You then have to make sure people go out and buy the novel. Those fortunate enough to have an agent who has signed them up to a well-known publisher can rely on the company public relations machine to kick into action  contacting bookshops to stock the novel, organising a launch party and seeing if they can also have the book translated and sold abroad.

But others must do the marketing themselves. There is plenty you can do to help shift your novel off the bookshelf.

Roz Morris says: Formulate a plan of attack. See if you can get family and friends to contact their local bookshop and ask them for a copy of the book  and to order more in.

Also contact local press  newspapers and radio stations  for interviews about your book and try to organise a signing at a local bookshop.

Kim Nash of publisher Bookouture believes it is important to take advantage of the internet  self-publicising on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter plus exploring the world of blogs.

She says: There is an army of book bloggers out there eager to review new novelists. These include Kim The Bookworm  which is me, CrimeBookJunkie and Random Things Through My Letterbox. Ask them to look at your novel as it helps spread the word.MPs will be grilling Persimmon this week about the obscenely large pay at the housebuilder, but the business select committee has missed a trick by not summoning 75million Jeff Fairburn, the chief executive and chief beneficiary of the discredited incentive scheme.

Instead, the committee is hauling up Marion Sears, a non-executive director who wasnt even at the company when it first cooked up the ill-starred incentive scheme that is paying out so lavishly.

Ms Sears has only been chair of the pay committee since late last year, when her predecessor resigned for his part in the debacle at the business.

The business select committee has missed a trick by not summoning 75million Jeff Fairburn, the chief executive and chief beneficiary of Persimmon

Its ridiculous that she is the one to be questioned when it is taciturn Jeff that everyone wants to hear from.

He is probably delighted to have escaped a summons, since he has been taking the strong and silent approach to new levels. The tongue-tied boss has refused to respond to questioning from reporters and even from shareholders at the annual meeting.

Yet he has no right to remain stumm  he is accountable to the shareholders who own the company and ultimately are being forced to pay his wages, and to taxpayers who have been indirectly subsidising his jackpot through the Help to Buy Scheme.

MPs should call in Jeff next and demand he provide some answers. Here are five questions they should ask.

1. Does he accept he has damaged his industrys reputation? One rival industry chief has described the pay package as very, very wrong and doing the whole industry a disservice.

2. How does he respond to questions from Euan Stirling of Standard Life over whether he may have breached company law? Section 172 of the Companies Act says directors have a legal responsibility to act in the best long-term interests of the company that employs them  and Stirling thinks the incentive scheme may have endangered Persimmons success.

3. Does he accept there are wider ramifications and that he has done damage to corporate Britain? Many business leaders fear that anger about excessive pay will encourage voters to elect Jeremy Corbyn, with disastrous consequences.

The discipline of economics, is too abstract, too inward-looking, too prone to claiming spurious accuracy and too remote from ordinary peoples lives

4. How long does he think he can keep his job? The chairman and the chair of the pay committee fell on their swords, but he is still in post. They rightly took responsibility for their part in the design of a flawed pay scheme, but Fairburn should accept his share too. He could have chosen graciously to take a more reasonable amount but instead did too little, too late.

5. Why hasnt he said sorry? Although the interim chairman has offered an unreserved apology to investors, Fairburn himself has never expressed public contrition. Why not? An apology costs nothing.

Jobs for the girls

Yet more sexism in the City is coming our way. First, the ludicrous excuses given by dinosaur FTSE bosses for failing to hire women to their boards, including my colleagues dont want a woman and women dont fit comfortably.

How sad that there are men running companies who even think like this in the recesses of their own mind, let alone actually say it out loud. At least this proves that if all the idiotic males were cleared out, there would be plenty of room for talented women.

The row over HM Treasury appointing the lone male applicant out of a shortlist of five to its Monetary Policy Committee (should that be Male Policy Committee?) is a little more nuanced, however. Its terrible that the MPC has only one female member. After all, the most powerful central bank in the world, the US Federal Reserve, was until recently run by a woman, Janet Yellen, so there is no excuse. It isnt just a matter of gender equality.

The discipline of economics, as practised overwhelmingly by middle class white men, is too abstract, too inward-looking, too prone to claiming spurious accuracy and too remote from ordinary peoples lives.

If it were a more diverse profession  not only in terms of gender  the range and depth of economic thought would be greater and the MPC might be better able to communicate with an often baffled public.There are few fund managers that have the strength of conviction of Pieter Fourie. He knows what he likes to hold in his portfolio  and what he will not touch  and will then build up meaningful stakes.

Fourie backs his judgment big time, happy on occasion to hold cash if he cannot buy the companies he likes at the right price.

It is a high conviction  and somewhat risky  approach but so far it has reaped rich rewards for investors in the fund he runs, Sanlam Global High Quality.

Since it launched in February 2014, investors have enjoyed profits in excess of 90 per cent

Since the fund launched in February 2014, investors have enjoyed profits in excess of 90 per cent, better than equivalent returns from most global equity funds.

In the last 18 months alone, the fund has doubled in size  a result of inflows from new investors jumping on board and strong investment performance. Fourie has won a number of awards for the passionate  and meticulous  way he goes about his business.

He is delighted with the way the fund has developed, but he knows he cannot take his foot off the pedal. The high valuations put on many listed companies make the case for holding on to them less compelling.

Finding value, he says, is becoming more difficult which explains why the fund has a healthy 16 per cent cash holding. He refuses to overpay, preferring instead to play a waiting game until a buying opportunity presents itself.

Apart from its slug of cash, the fund has exposure to just 30 stocks. Most have common characteristics. They are capital light which explains the absence of energy companies, utility and telecoms giants in the portfolio. They are also cash generative with the ability to pay a healthy dividend.

The result is a fund heavy on companies operating in information technology, health care and consumer goods.Although the number of holdings is small compared to many competing funds, Fourie is constantly assessing whether he has the balance right.

So, since the turn of the year, he has built new positions in French food manufacturer Danone, restaurant operator Yum China, South Korean phone giant Samsung, travel software company Sabre and UK firm Sage.

To make way for these, he has sold stakes in the drinks manufacturer Pernod Ricard and medical technology firm Stryker. He has also trimmed positions in Microsoft, credit ratings agency Moodys and United States-based medical equipment company Edwards Lifesciences.

It is all about trying to find value at attractive prices in stock markets that look expensive, says Fourie.

The companies we have sold are not bad businesses. Far from it. It is just that their shares, compared to the earnings they are generating, look pricey. If we can find better value in sectors we like, then it is our duty to do so.

Yum China is a company he currently prefers. It has exclusive rights in China to fast food brands including KFC and Pizza Hut.

Fourie adds: Yum China is the kind of Steady Eddie company you want to hold at the moment. It operates through the granting of franchises, absorbs little capital, has no borrowing and generates lots of cash. All of this is underpinned by a good management team at the helm.

Fourie and his six-strong global equity team at Sanlam are watching 120 companies, looking only to invest when valuations appear compelling.

Sanlam UK is part of South African financial services giant Sanlam Limited. Fouries team manage global assets of some 900 million from offices in London.The market panic sparked by political turmoil in Italy and fears it may be heading out of the single currency is not over yet, economists warn.

The political crisis in Italy rocked markets across the world, with fears a full-blown meltdown in the eurozone would hammer global growth.

This would have repercussions for the UK, as its economic fortunes remain closely tied to the strength of the eurozone, regardless of Brexit.

The political crisis in Italy rocked markets across the world, with fears a full-blown meltdown in the eurozone would hammer global growth

The populist parties that have shot to power struck a deal late last week to form a government and tone down their eurosceptic positions. That has eased fears that the country may crash out of the single currency or even head for Quitaly  an Italian version of Brexit.

Relief came when the parties agreed not to appoint a eurosceptic finance minister, who had been vetoed by Italys president, raising the prospect of a fresh election.

But Claus Vistesen, chief eurozone economist for Pantheon Macroeconomics, said the coalition was likely to prove unstable and there could still be new elections soon.

He said the Northern League and Five Star movement, which have formed a coalition under prime minister Giuseppe Conte, would again emerge as the biggest parties.

Both have shown a willingness to flirt with outlandish ideas of parallel currencies and debt forgiveness in a bid to capitalise on festering anti-EU sentiment among parts of the Italian population, he said.

Markets were worried last week that the coalition wanted to issue debt in a new currency, effectively taking a big step to dropping the euro. Conte has subsequently given assurances that the country would stick with the euro, but big rows over the budget lie ahead.

The market panic sparked by political turmoil in Italy and fears it may be heading out of the single currency is not over yet, experts have warned

The Northern Leagues supporters want the new government to slash taxes, and there are proposals for a flat tax system in the coalition pact.

But the Five Star movements support base want a huge spending spree, including a 17 billion proposal for a basic income for job seekers.

Carlotta de Franceschi, who advised former Italian prime minister Matteo Renzi on banking, said the government might stir up more market panic if it tried to raise money from taxing the banks.

I think the market would react poorly simply because our banking system is still recovering, she said.

Ivo Pezzuto, a professor of global economics, said the new government needed to invest to foster growth.

In order to grow and prosper, Italy would need to relax fiscal rules to a certain extent that would allow the country to invest in public infrastructure and new business, he said.

That would kick start growth and shock Italy out of the its high unemployment and low productivity.Flip the dam plan over

Every year and in almost every grade, the government prescribed school curriculum makes students rote learn that Nepal has one of the biggest potential for hydropower development. Politicians, when in power cite hydropower expansion as Nepals short cut to heaven. A shroud of the promised land hung large when KP Oli and his Indian counterpart remotely laid the foundation to the 900 MW Arun 3 Hydro power project. In an recent op-ed article (Return of the Dam Plan, May 25), economist Chandan Sapkota lauded the restart of the project for its transformative nature in terms of potential to boost economic growth and job creation. and took the opportunity to reflect on why the Arun 3 was stopped more than 20 years ago.Online shopping is expected to account for 18 per cent of retail spending in Britain this year. That is a sizeable proportion, but it still means that more than 80 per cent of purchases are made in physical outlets.

Looking ahead, experts believe that even if online sales continue to grow, the vast majority of shopping will continue to be done in bricks-and-mortar stores.

The way consumers shop is changing however, making location more important than ever. Ediston Property Investment Company prides itself on owning the right sites in the right places and managing them in such a way as to deliver a consistent and attractive income to shareholders.

Focus on location: Nearly 75 per cent of that portfolio is out-of-town retail parks in Scotland, Wales, the Midlands and the North

Unusually, the firm pays monthly dividends so investors are also rewarded 12 times a year for owning Ediston stock. The company floated in 2014 at 100p, the shares are 111p today and the total annual dividend is 5.75p, putting the stock on a yield of 5.2 per cent.

The share price and the dividend are expected to increase over time as Ediston expands its portfolio and raises rental income.

The Edinburgh-based firm is run by Calum Bruce, who has spent his career in the property sector. Bruce and his team take an unusually active approach to their sites.

Most companies employ one surveyor to look after 30 to 35 properties. Ediston has ten surveyors for about 40 properties, so it puts much more effort into analysing sites before buying them. It also spends more time developing relationships with tenants once properties have been acquired.

The strategy works. When Ediston floated, around a quarter of its portfolio was vacant. Today, only 0.7 per cent of the groups properties are not generating any rental income. At the same time, the estate has grown from a portfolio valued at 77 million in 2014 to 325 million today.

Nearly 75 per cent of that portfolio is out-of-town retail parks in Scotland, Wales, the Midlands and the North. Bruce has focused on this sector because retail parks in these regions offer good value in todays environment and appeal to both store owners and shoppers.

Retailers like them because rents are cheaper than on the high street and in city centre shopping malls.

It also means they can open bigger stores and offer easy click-and-collect access. Consumers like the accessibility too and Ediston works hard to ensure that stores are appropriate to each location, focusing on value in less affluent areas of the country, for example.

As a result, Bruce has been able to raise rents, extend leases and offer firms such as Iceland and discount retailer B&M more space, while driving down vacancies. The group owns office space, too, again away from the South East.

Bruce recently acquired a development site in Haddington, 15 miles east of Edinburgh, where he hopes to build a retail park. The town is growing fast and large shops are in short supply, so the project should generate considerable value over time.

Midas verdict: Ediston Property offers investors a good blend of conservatism, expertise and enterprise. Bruce focuses on delivering returns to shareholders so acquisitions and developments are undertaken only if they are likely to boost income and capital growth.

The ambition is to expand the portfolio to at least 500 million in the next few years. In the meantime, shareholders can enjoy that monthly dividend. At 111p, the shares are a good long-term investment.Tesco has been accused of handing excessive pay to chief executive Dave Lewis and other governance failings ahead of its annual meeting.

Lewis earned a total of 4.9 million in the year to February 24, an increase of 17.5 per cent on his 4.1 million the previous year.

Shareholder lobby group Pirc said his salary is high in comparison with his peers, and highlighted the potential excessiveness of his rewards, saying he is paid 267 times as much as the average wage amongst his colleagues at the supermarket.

Lewis earned a total of 4.9 million in the year to February 24, an increase of 17.5 per cent on his 4.1 million the previous year

His 1.25 million base salary was boosted by a 971,000 award under a long-term incentive scheme, plus 2.3 million of bonus and benefits.

Pirc said his rewards have outstripped the value created for shareholders, and it urged them to vote against the pay report at Tescos annual meeting on June 15.

But the retail chief has won praise in the City for leading a strong recovery at Tesco after it suffered from an accounting scandal in 2014, before he arrived. In its most recent results, Tesco defied the gloom in the retail sector and posted a huge surge in profits to 1.3 billion.

Lewis has also won plaudits for overseeing the 3.7 billion takeover of wholesaler Booker Group.

A rival shareholder adviser group, Glass Lewis, supports Tescos pay structure.

Tesco has been accused of handing excessive pay to chief executive Dave Lewis

However Pirc raised other governance issues including over the independence of its auditors, Deloitte. Pirc said it has major concerns because less than 10 per cent of its fees from Tesco relate to auditing, with the rest coming from consultancy work carried out for the supermarket group.

Pirc accused chairman John Allan of overboarding  holding too many board jobs at once. He also chairs Barratt Developments.

Lewis has been tipped to succeed Paul Polman as chief executive of Unilever, where he previously held a senior role. He dismissed the talk recently, saying: Youll have to put up with me for a while yet.

Tesco declined to comment.Distressed small investors are demanding a probe into an action group set up to sue Royal Bank of Scotland after this newspaper revealed its links to a fraudster.

Dozens of people who signed up to the RBoS Shareholders Action Group have shared their concerns with The Mail on Sunday and several have asked the City of London Polices Action Fraud department to investigate.

A Mail on Sunday investigation has found the action group  set up to sue RBS over shares sold in 2008 before their value crashed  was co-founded by Gerard Walsh, an Irish businessman who has been named as a fraudster by a Jersey court in a separate civil case.

Dozens of people who signed up to the RBoS Shareholders Action Group have shared their concerns with The Mail on Sunday

Investors who signed up to the action group won a 200 million settlement from RBS a year ago in a much-celebrated victory. But the majority has so far not been paid out and it has emerged that Walsh is trying to claim at least 3.75 million from the settlement, through an arrangement kept secret from investors.

Barbara Wood, 63, a retired academic from Yorkshire who signed up to the group, said: The joy of RBS being held to account has quickly plummeted to anger and despair at the greed of one man. Shame on Gerard Walsh.

Walter Johnston, a 61-year-old retired firefighter from Northern Ireland, said: I am at a loss as to why the Government has not intervened to help solve this matter.

The Mail on Sunday has offered to assist with Action Frauds enquiries by providing information. Action Fraud received its first complaint in February, but no investigation has been launched.

Complainant Barry Middleton, 73, a former RBS employee from Aberdeenshire, said: I feel terribly let down by the action group. It certainly needs investigating.

Retired civil engineer John Greenwood, 76, from Huddersfield, has also asked Action Fraud to investigate. He said: Its up to the members to take action against Gerard Walsh and company.

Are you affected by this story? Email: william.turvill@ mailonsunday.co.ukFormer Conservative leader Michael Howard is one of the key players behind plans to build a massive new town that will despoil vast swathes of some of the most beautiful countryside in England.

Lord Howard of Lympne is the chairman of South West Strategic Developments (SWSD), a little-known company ultimately owned by a private equity firm based in Bermuda, which has drawn up proposals to build up to 15,000 houses in rural Somerset, next to the village of Sparkford.

A large slice of the land in question is owned by a multi-millionaire property developer, Bill Hopkins, who is best known for a bitter High Court battle over his fortune with his ex-wife. The cement tycoon, who would stand to profit handsomely from the deal, also owns a nearby castle.

Lord Howard is the chairman of South West Strategic Developments (SWSD), which has drawn up proposals to build up to 15,000 houses in rural Somerset, next to the village of Sparkford

Local councillors say it will wreck a beautiful part of the rural landscape and is motivated by greed. Critics also argue the land is on a flood plain and that the town could take up to 20 years to build, causing huge upheaval in an area where there are no extra opportunities for employment and no rail infrastructure.

Henry Hobhouse, a Liberal Democrat district councillor for South Somerset, claims the land is unsuitable because it is on the River Cary flood plain and lacks the infrastructure needed to support the families who would live in the homes, such as schools and roads.

'They [developers] are not interested in thinking about anything. This is about money,' he said.

Hobhouse said local residents are 'absolutely against it', adding: 'I've yet to meet anybody who likes it apart from the landowners. It's a complete greenfield site that has absolutely no infrastructure at all.'

Lord Howard hit back, telling the MoS: 'The people who would benefit  if the scheme gets planning permission  would be the thousands who will then have houses to live in.'

The plans have won the backing of local Tory MPs, but have divided local residents, some of whom are horrified at the prospect of thousands of new-build homes. Unsurprisingly, Tory MP Marcus Fysh, whose constituency next door will not be affected, supported the scheme.

Local councillors say the development will wreck a beautiful part of the rural landscape

He said: 'It's a big job and quite daunting in planning terms but there are fine examples happening elsewhere in the country and we should be confident in bidding for that level of investment here.' Despite its name, South West Strategic Developments is based in Chichester, West Sussex, nearly 100 miles away. It promotes development schemes and funds projects in their early stages.

Companies House documents reveal SWSD is owned by a company called Cardinal International.

Cardinal is owned by a firm called CRBF Private Equity Limited, which is based in Bermuda, a well-known offshore tax haven. CRBF was named in the so-called Paradise Papers because it used Appleby, the law firm at the centre of the leak that exposed offshore dealings of banks, billionaires, and major world companies.

The accounts state that SWSD is reliant on loans from Cardinal, which itself depends on loans from CRBF. Lord Howard said: 'SWSD is a UK company liable to UK taxes and any profits it makes are taxed in this country.'

It is unclear exactly how much Lord Howard is paid for his role at the company because this is not revealed in the accounts. Landowner Bill Hopkins, 69, a property tycoon worth more than 38 million, amassed his fortune from his companies Hopkins Developments and Hopkins Concrete.

He won a High Court battle with his ex-wife Caroline in 2015 after she claimed she was owed 2 million but received a tenth of that because she signed a post-nuptial agreement.

Hopkins bought luxurious Compton Castle, more than five miles away from the proposed new town, for 6.5 million in October 2015. South West Strategic Developments' proposals were put forward as part of a local review into tackling the housing shortage. The proposal claims the scheme could create up to 19,000 jobs.

The new settlement would be situated near the Royal Naval Air Station at Yeovilton 'so as to harness the potential for economic development focused on the airfield'. The plans mistakenly refer to the air base as an RAF station.

Plans also include building a new university or college to support 'technology-based businesses'.

Grass Roots, the planning consultancy working on behalf of South West Strategic, said the plans are at a very early stage.

Lord Howard lives between London and Kent, both well over 100 miles from the planned town.

TAIPEI  An all that glitters is not gold warning has been sounded by Taiwan to its international diplomatic allies regarding what it calls Mainland Chinas dollar diplomacy.



The Repluc of China on Taiwan has pointed out that the economic incentives promised by Mainland China to every country that would establish diplomatic ties with the latter over the former carried with them hidden agendas.

This was said by Chui-Cheng Chui, the Deputy Minister in the Mainland Affairs Council, when addressing journalists from eight of Taiwans diplomatic allies last week.



The journalists had paid a courtesy call to the deputy minister as part of a week-long programme meant to familiarise the journalists with Taiwans developments and cooperation with the diplomatic allies.

Chui-Cheng expressed Taiwans appreciation for the strong support and assistance offered by the diplomatic allies, amid Mainland Chinas economic and military threats.



Mainland China proposes all kinds of incentives and inducements, but if you review these incentives there is political propaganda behind such proposals, the deputy minister said.



He further stated that sometimes there are possibilities of some debt-trap that comes with economic cooperation with Mainland China.

He said controversies had marred some companies that had taken Mainland Chinas offers in the countries, where such cooperation had been established.



Chui-Cheng pointed out that this was not the case with Taiwan.

On the other hand, Taiwan will always fulfil its obligations and responsibilities, as well as follow all laid down rules, he assured.

The deputy minister called on all its allies to help the Asian country maintain the status quo of the Taiwan Strait because it was not easy to do so by themselves.



The Taiwan Strait, or Formosa Strait, is a 180 kilometre (110 mi)-wide strait separating the island of Taiwan from mainland China (Peoples Republic of China). The strait is part of the South China Sea and connects to the East China Sea to the north.

We are committed to maintaining the status quo of the peaceful and stable developments along the Taiwan Strait. Our government hopes that both sides can sit down soon and talk without any preconditions, he said.MBABANE  Phiwayinkhosi Titi Kunene has added to the list of people who first disappear and are later found dead in the country.



The eight-year-old pupil of Phakamani Primary Schools death has left the community of Hholoshini Chiefdom, which is a few kilometres from the capital city - Mbabane shocked and angry.



Her decomposing corpse was retrieved from a bushy patch beyond the rocky mountain overlooking the deceaseds family homestead.

There were over 70 police officers who were dispatched to comb the area in search of the child who went missing 10 days ago.

Her disappearance has been shrouded in mystery, and the discovery of the dead child occurred on the eve of the funeral of her father, who committed suicide on Thursday by ingesting the deadly weevil tablet.



A crowd of over 100 people comprising police officers and shattered community members cascaded at the Kunene family just after the search.

Police had searched an area that had not been visited during the previous search sessions.



Her body was starting to decompose when she was found and her head had just been removed from the body apparently by dogs. It was difficult to see if her body was mutilated, strangled or what, confided one eyewitness.



Given the nature of the matter and the investigation thereon, the family said they had been warned by the police not to say anything on the matter until after the post mortem set for Wednesday.



Notable among the group of police officers at the scene was Mbabane Police Station Desk Officer Solomon Mavuso.

The body of the child had been taken to the Mbabane Government Hospital Mortuary by officers from the Scenes of Crime.

Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Khulani Mamba confirmed the matter yesterday.Irate locals close Araniko Highway at Radhe Radhe against fatal accident

Family and relatives of Deepak Khyaju, who was killed Saturday after a bus hit his motorcycle, have disrupted the Araniko Highway at Radhe Radhe on Sunday, demanding action ( under murder case) against the bus driver and proper compensation to the victim.Kantipur scribe Shrestha bags Rotary award

Makar Shrestha a correspondent with Kantipur daily has bagged this years Rotary Award for his reporting in the field of education. The Rotary Nepal has been awarding the journalists with Rotary Journo Award under six different categories since 2012.Man slapped 12 year prison term for cow slaughter

District Court, Arghakhanchi has slapped 12 year prison sentence to a person here on charges of cow slaughter.UPDATE 12:30PM 6/2/2018: The Jackson County Prosecutor's office has charged Ja'Quann L. McCarver, 18, of Kansas City with Murder in the 2nd Degree, Unlawful use of a Weapon, and two counts of Armed Criminal Action. KANSAS CITY, Mo. - UPDATE 10:10 PM 6/1/2018: Grandview police say a subject has been placed on a 24-hour investigative hold in the death of a teen.COURTHOUSE INSIDERS OFFER BEHIND THE SCENES PERSPECTIVE ON THE POLITICAL SPIN AS TKC FIRST NEWS HITS THE MSM!!!

INSIDERS FEAR POLITICOS ARE BLAMING THE VICTIM IN A DESPERATE ATTEMPT TO AVOID RESPONSIBILITY!!!

REMEMBER THAT FOR MONTHS BOTH TEAM FRANK & INCUMBENT CRYSTAL WILLIAMS INDICATED THAT THE JAIL CRISIS IS UNDER CONTROL!!!

"She demanded a change in leadership at the jail and got it in 2017."

INSIDER: TEAM FRANK ENGAGES IN DESPICABLE ACT OF RAPE VICTIM BLAMING:

As the MSM wakes up to the fact that this site, AGAIN, THE TKC BLOG COMMUNITY WAS FIRST to report that ANOTHER rape allegation is being investigated at the Jackson County Jail, expect them to go out of their way to ignore the MOST DESTRUCTIVE AND DESPICABLE part of this crisis:





When Frank's team began calling other elected officials to notify them of the new allegations of rape, they quickly turned the conversation to how "it was actually all consensual" and, get this, "SHE WANTED THIS" was the quote with at least one person. SHE WANTED THIS? IS THIS THE 1950's? DESPICABLE! Rather than simply let the investigation go forward without improper editorial comment, TEAM FRANK made the strategic choice to victim blame in a clear effort to steer the allegation away from any possible blame on them and to a victim that "wanted it", but is now alleging rape.





Folks, THIS KIND OF BEHAVIOR IS THE FRONT LINE FOR ABUSE OF WOMEN IN AMERICA! This conduct is despicable, unethical, and should not go unpunished. It is time for Frank to seriously consider a series of firings or his own resignation.





Final question: What will HYPOCRITE CRYSTAL AND DO NOTHING TONY MILLER DO NOW? They are backed into a serious corner by Frank's misconduct. Do they simply look the other way at team Frank's slut shaming and victim blaming? Issue a tepid response on Monday at the meeting? Or actually do some real work on behalf of the helpless women being brutalized on their watch? Look for both of them to take care of their political self-interests first and largely ignore this issue...

This week our blog community wasNow . . .Even worse . . .One last point . . .In defense of Legislator Williams . . . One of her supporters said:It's correct that the deck chairs have been shuffled at the jail . . . Andduring their discussions of possible reforms. But obviously the latest rape investigation indicates that the problems are not close to being solved.Accordingly, here isas our blog community is thein the policy discussion and political debate:##################Developing . . .S&P Global Ratings has affirmed its 'B+/B' long- and short-term foreign and local currency sovereign credit ratings on Bahrain with a stable outlook. The transfer and convertibility assessment on Bahrain remains at 'BB-', it added.



The stable outlook reflects the balance between the risk that the central bank would be unable to meet a surge in demand for foreign currency over the next 12 months and potential financial support from neighbouring sovereigns, stated the top ratings agency.



S&P said it would raise the ratings if Bahrain's net external asset position improves, perhaps due to a significant inflow of foreign currency, or the government undertakes additional steps to improve its public finance position in order to slow or reverse further increases in government debt.



"We would lower the ratings if fiscal and external pressures intensify, the coverage of external liabilities by liquid external assets falls more sharply than expected, or we reassess our assumption that support for Bahrain's

exchange rate arrangement from neighboring sovereigns would be forthcoming," the top ratings agency said in its review.



These ratings on Bahrain are supported by the country's net external asset position and modest level of economic wealth, it added.



According to S&P, the ratings are also supported by its opinion that financial support for Bahrain's exchange rate arrangement from neighbouring sovereigns would be forthcoming, if needed.



"The ratings are constrained by our view of Bahrain's continued budgetary dependency on oil revenues, its rapid accumulation and high stock of government debt, and its unresolved domestic political tensions, which in our view hamper the effectiveness of the sovereign's economic policy. The ratings are also limited by the economy's weak trend growth in real GDP per capita," it added.

According to S&P Global, the government access to international capital markets has proven crucial in supporting the central bank's low level of foreign currency reserves.



"However, in our view, the central bank is currently meeting demand for foreign currency from the domestic market and there is no apparent strain in the domestic economy," it stated.



Bahrain's gross international reserves are low, covering less than one month's current account payments and about 40 per cent of the monetary base over the first quarter of 2018, according to the S&P ratings.



They have also been volatile, in the absence of a substantial and sustained net inflow of foreign currency, it added.



Government external bond (and sukuk) issuance has been the main support for the Central Bank of Bahrain's (CBB's) gross international reserves in 2017 and continuing into 2018. This funding was followed by an average $280 million drain on reserves in the subsequent months.



The base level of reserves has been trending lower after each sustained decline before the government issues more bonds, said the top ratings agency.



According to S&P Global estimates, the gross international reserves had been $2.8 billion at the end of 2017.



"As of April this year, we estimate the reserves are at about $2.5 billion. We assume this includes proceeds from the $1-billion sukuk issued in April," said the ratings agency in its review.



"Our forecasts for the CBB's gross international reserves at year-end over 2018-2021 are broadly flat with a slight drain, as we expect the Bahraini authorities will continue the strategy of raising external government debt for fiscal deficit financing purposes, which at the same time supports CBB reserve levels," it added.-TradeArabia News ServiceSadara Chemical Company (Sadara) said it has signed an MoU with Veolia Middle East, a Paris-based group and world leader in industrial waste management, to construct a sustainable central utilities facility in PlasChem Park, the unique industrial park adjacent to the Sadara Chemical Complex.



PlasChem Park is a collaborative effort between Sadara and the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu (RCJY) in Jubail's Second Industrial City.



The MoU provides a long-term waste management solution for Sadara, and creates an opportunity for Veolia to build a utility plant including waste management and waste energy facilities at PlasChem Park, enabling Veolia to manage a substantial portion of Sadaras waste streams.



On the partnership, Sadara CEO Dr Faisal Al Faqeer said one of the groups main drivers is the enablement of a vibrant downstream manufacturing industry in kingdom.



"Another is to always act responsibly towards the environment. This deal allows us to combine those two key objectives, and we are very excited indeed to partner with Veolia to deliver this waste product management solution," noted Dr Al Faqeer.



"With partners like Veolia, we are confident that we will continue to catalyse the growth of the kingdoms downstream manufacturing industry," he added.



Veolia, a leading developer of sustainable responsible services and expertise to companies in many types of industries, currently operates 29 similar utility facilities worldwide.



In Jubail, Veolia group has a track record in operation and maintenance of industrial waste water projects and in delivering engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) works  specifically, the Marafiq Desalination Plant (800,000 cu m per day) and the Sadara SWRO plant (178,000 cu m per day).



The central utilities island will incinerate industrial wastes and recover the heat from this process to produce a usable steam by-product. This will act as an incentive to attract PlasChem Park investors, providing their proposed manufacturing plants with third-party steam at an attractive price.



Additionally, the Veolia facility will produce cooled water and compressed air, which will also be made available to PlasChem Park tenants for industrial use.



Veolia Arabia CEO Faisal Al Dawish said: "We are very excited to be contributing our knowledge and experience to the further development of PlasChem Park, a truly exciting endeavor in Jubail Industrial City."



"This new utilities facility will implement environmentally responsible principles of the Circular Economy, a favored international economic model that keeps resources in use for as long as possible, extracting maximum value and then recovering and regenerating additional products and energy, a concept that we ascribe to wholeheartedly at Veolia," he added.



The utilities project will be developed by Veolia and potential partners. The investment will be made by Veolia and partners, and Sadara will act only as facilitator to the projects success and has agreed to transfer waste products to the plant.-TradeArabia News ServiceRoyal Jordanian (RJ) has launched direct flights to Denmark's capital, Copenhagen, making a strong presence in the Scandinavian market and enhancing tourism from the Nordic countries to Jordan.



Flying to Copenhagen three times a week, the new destination is part of RJs turnaround plan that includes, among others, continuous assessment of the route network in order to enhance traffic to Jordan and improve connectivity via the base, Amman.



The new route, launched after having conducted a feasibility study, is expected to attract more tourists to Jordan, facilitate travel for businessmen, and enhance trade between Jordan and the Scandinavian market.



Copenhagen Airport is the largest in the Nordic countries and the busiest for international travel; it serves many cities in the Scandinavian peninsula, particularly southern Sweden.



A delegation of representatives from Royal Jordanian, Jordan Tourism Board and Jordanian travel agents were on the inaugural flight to Copenhagen.



RJ President/CEO Stefan Pichler said: RJ will continue to review its network and look for new markets to better enhance traffic and connect Jordan to the world, in line with our vision and strategy to be the airline of choice from/to the Levant.



Copenhagen is the 45th destination on RJs network and its first station in the Scandinavian region; it gives travelers the chance to visit other cities in Northern Europe, and also offers those traveling from the Scandinavian countries the chance to visit Jordan with its great tourist and historical sites, and benefit from RJs global network, which connects them to the Levant, the Arab Gulf and the Far East via Amman.



Royal Jordanian will operate the three weekly flights with Airbus 320 family planes on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. The plane departs from Queen Alia International Airport, Amman, at 10:45, and arrives at Copenhagen International Airport at 14:30. Return flights depart from Copenhagen Airport at 15:25 and arrive at QAIA at 21:00.



Additionally, to mark the holy month of Ramadan in the Middle East region, RJ has announced a special Ramadan Sale for the Jordanian travel industry from June 3 to 5. In this sales promo, RJ will offer a 46 per cent discount at all Jordan travel agents and different RJs sales channels on the global network of destinations, for travel between September 15 and March 20, 2019, with a blackout period between December 16 and January 15, 2019. - TradeArabia News Service

Mills fail to pay cane farmers yet again

Sugarcane farmers in the western part of Nawalparasi have been hit hard as sugar mills have been habitually delaying payment. This year, mills owe Rs460 million to farmers and there are no signs of them settling the dues.Minister Bista leads Nepali labour panel to Geneva

Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security Gokarna Raj Bista left for Switzerland on Saturday to participate in the 109th Session of the International Labour Conference.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 2

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum has penalised an e-commerce website on a complaint about delivery of a fake product.

The forum has fined Amazon around Rs 25,000 and let go the seller as well as the manufacturing company, who too were the respondents in the case.

Prakriti Thakur, a student of Panjab University, Chandigarh, had filed a complaint against Amazon Seller Services Private Limited, Laxmi Communications, Mohali, and the Chief General Manager, Micromax House, Gurgaon.

As per the complaint, Thakur had ordered online a Micromax Canvas Fire 4 mobile handset from Amazon on October 20, 2016, for Rs 4,560. However, the mobile phone did not work, following which the complainant contacted the seller. Thakur was told that it was a fake mobile phone as its IMEI number was a digit short. It was not manufactured by Micromax Company.

She thus approached the forum through counsel Puru Jarewal.

In its reply, Amazon, while admitting the factual matrix of the case, pleaded that the complainant bought the mobile handset from an independent third-party seller offering its products on the website operated by it. Amazon is not responsible for the products that are listed on the website by various third-party sellers. The sellers themselves are responsible for their respective listings and products on the website, the e-commerce website stated in its reply.

Not impressed with the reply, the forum observed that since the product was sold at the platform of Amazon, we are of the concerted opinion that the opposite party number 1 (Amazon) is solely liable if the product sold by a third-party seller on its platform turns out to be a fake. It added, Amazons measures for countering fakes seem to be weak due to its lax policies and policing, which promoted the sale of fake products, as sellers could remain anonymous and know that they would face no legal recourse.

The order further read that Amazon must have its brand registry to keep track of legitimate brands and could use software to weed out fakes. Why Amazon doesnt do this is mind boggling and makes it complicit in the rampant counterfeiting on its platform.

The forum observed that Amazon could not be allowed to take a shield to evade its liability on the grounds that the sellers themselves were responsible for their respective listings and products on its website.

Amazon alone was thus asked to refund Rs 4,560 and pay a compensation of Rs 15,000 to the complainant. Besides, the e-commerce website has been directed to pay Rs 5,000 as litigation expenses.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Mohali, June 2

A biology lecturer at Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Kurali, is the only one from the district to win this years Malti Gyan Peeth Puraskar.

Kuljeet Kaur, the lecturer, received the award for outstanding results.

She said she had to go through various rounds while competing for the award, including a written test, viva voce and interview.

The Mohali resident with 21 years of teaching experience has been teaching at the Kurali school for the past eight years. A single mother, Kuljeets daughter has completed her MBA while her son passed out of Class X this year.

A total of 15 teachers from Punjab won the award. They received Rs 1 lakh cash prize from Vice President Venkaiah Naidu during an event held at the NDMC convention centre in New Delhi on May 29.amansharma@tribunemail.com

Shiv Kumar Sharma

Tribune News Service

Yamunanagar, June 3

A six-year-old girl of an employee of former minister and Congress leader Nirmal Singh was allegedly sexually assaulted and murdered near minister's stud farm in mining zone of Khizrabad area of Yamunanagar district.

Father of the victim, Magan Singh, who belonged to Gumla district of Jharkhand, in his complaint to the police said he had been living along with his wife and two children at former minister's stud farm for six years and working there as a labourer.

He said his daughter went missing at about 1 pm yesterday while playing near the stud farm.

He added that when they along with other labourers working at stud farm and agriculture farm of the minister were looking for the girl, they spotted her body in a pit near stud farm at 2 pm, today.

"The body was found lying in a pool of blood. There were blood stains on her private parts. Her throat was slit with some sharp-edged weapon," the complaint read.

The complainant further said the underwear and slippers of his daughter were lying near her body.

Lajja Ram, SHO, Khizrabad police station, said the police had launched an investigation.

When asked whether girl's family was suspecting anybody for her abduction and murder, he said, "They have not pointed finger towards anybody. Our probe is on."

He added that a case had been registered under Section 302 (murder) of IPC and Section 6 of POSCO Act against unknown person.

The body was kept at mortuary of civil hospital, Yamunanagar, and the postmortem would be conducted tomorrow.

Former minister Nirmal Singh said when he came to know about the missing girl, he along with his staff members and labourers searched till 9 pm yesterday, but when they failed to find her they informed the police at night itself.

"It is an unfortunate incident. The police should arrest the accused soon," Singh said.singhking99@yahoo.com

Sunit Dhawan

Tribune News Service

Jassia (Rohtak), June 2

The All-India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti will launch a fresh agitation from August 16 demanding reservation for Jats in government jobs.

Samiti president Yashpal Malik said if their demand was not met by August 15, they would oppose the ruling BJP in the coming Haryana Assembly elections and stage protests wherever Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and his Cabinet colleagues held public meetings.

Addressing a gathering at the Jat Mahasammelan here on Saturday, Malik said if any national BJP leader, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi or BJP president Amit Shah, held any programme in the state before the said date, the stir would begin that day itself.

The samiti has demanded that the BJP governments at the Centre and in Haryana ensure reservation for Jats by passing the backward classes Bill in Parliament and supporting related cases in the Supreme Court and the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Besides Haryana, the Jat body resolved to oppose the BJP in the Assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. It demanded that Haryana should approach the High Court to enable members of the Special Backward Classes to join government service as it had done in the case of economically backward persons in general category.

Samiti general secretary Ashok Balhara accused the BJP of dividing Haryana society into Jat and non-Jat categories. The state government has failed to keep promises made to the Jats, he said.

Representatives of Jat bodies from Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and MP, as well as leaders of other castes and communities, also addressed the gathering.editorial@tribune.com

Naveen S Garewal & Mukesh Tandon

Tribune News Service

Samalkha (Panipat), June 3

Giving a clarion call to oust the BJP government in next years Vidhan Sabha elections, Congress leader and two-time Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda launched the second phase of his Jan Kranti Rath Yatra from Samalkha on Sunday.

Considering Panipat to be auspicious, Hooda had launched his tirade against Om Prakash Chautala from Panipat in 2001 and ended up staying at the helm of affairs as Chief Minister for two consecutive terms. Braving the heat, when temperatures stayed north of 40 degree Celsius, the mood of the people was palpable. The grain market overflowed with supporters, outnumbering capacity.

Those who could not manage a chair or squat anywhere returned to their vehicles, parking these on the main Grand Trunk Road to catch a glimpse of Hooda travelling in a makeshift rath on a modern-day bus. More than the number, it was the mood that enthused party workers and supporters. Every time Hooda questioned the BJP government over failed promises, cheer ripped through the tin covered anaj mandi.

Hooda was apparently in sync with the mood of party workers and supporters, who felt powerless on account of being part of the opposition, repeatedly raising slogans in favour of Hooda and his son Deepender, Member of Parliament from Rohtak.

The only other Congress leaders the crowds cheered for were Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. Hooda received an overwhelming applause each time he said the BJP government had failed on every count.

It was important that I was voted out of power, do you know why? The answer is that it has given the people a chance to evaluate my 10 years of governance and compare it to the government subsequent to mine, he said.

The rally was scheduled for 10 am, but Hooda arrived at the venue around 1.40 pm in his specially designed rath. He was accompanied by Kuldeep Sharma, former Speaker and sitting MLA; former MLA Dharam Singh Chhokkar, organiser of the rally; Phool Chand Mulana, former president, Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee; and Raghubir Singh Kadyan, former Speaker.

The crowds kept coming since the morning from various segments of Karnal, Panipat and Rohtak parliamentary constituencies. Incidentally, the Congress does not have any sitting MLA in the entire stretch of the GT Road belt between Samalkha and Kalka.

All Congress leaders, including Hooda, who addressed the rally from either the temporary stage or Hoodas rath, said the BJP had failed to fulfil its major pre-poll promises on the basis of which it had come to powser.

There was disillusionment among all sections in the state, be it farmers, government employees, students, youth, traders or industrialists, on account of which they called the BJPs policies anti-people, they said.

Hooda said instead of helping farmers or getting Swaminathan report implemented to improve the condition of farmers, the government had been issuing notices for forcible acquisition of land of farmers in debt to auction these for recovery. He promised that land of no debt-ridden farmer would be acquired if the Congress formed the government in Haryana next year.

Coming down heavily on the government, Hooda said the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna had been launched by the BJP government to benefit insurance companies and not farmers. Four companies which had carried out crop insurance made profits to the tune of Rs 9,000 crore and collected premium of around Rs 22,000 crore, he pointed out.

He said the government had failed to provide the jobs it had promised and on the other hand, due to inept pleading in the High Court, even those who were in service had been dismissed. He asked the government to make legislative provisions to re-induct the 50,000 people who had lost their government service jobs. He said if voted to power, his government would do the needful. He criticised functioning of the Haryana Service Selection Commission, accusing it of selling jobs for cash.

Hooda cited several instances of the BJP government having failed to live up to its promises and listed what his government would undertake to deliver after the next elections if given an opportunity to serve the state and its people. He announced between six and eight such rallies every day in all parliamentary constituencies till the 2019 General Election.

Rally triggers woes for localseditorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Ambala, June 3

A Judicial Magistrate First Class of Naraingarh court and an advocate were killed and another lawyer was injured when their speeding SUV rammed into a tree near Dhanaura village, Naraingarh, Ambala, on Sunday morning.

The deceased have been identified as judicial magistrate Sahil Yadav, a resident of Gurugarm, and Rajan Gupta, former president of the Naraingarh Bar association and a resident of Shahzadpur. The injured has been identified as Rajiv Kumar, a resident of Naraingarh.

As per information, they were on their way to Naraingarh from Chandigarh. Around 10.35 am, the Fortuner, owned by Rajan Gupta, lost its control and banged into a tree. While Rajan Gupta died on the spot, Sahil Yadav and Rajiv Kumar were rushed to Civil Hospital Naraingarh from where they were referred to GMCH-32, Chandigarh. The judge died while undergoing treatment in Chandigarh.

Superintendent of Police Abhishek Jorwal said, Judge Sahil Yadav and advocate Rajan Gupta have died while Rajiv Kumar (on the back seat) is undergoing treatment. The car was probably being driven by Sahil. The post-mortem reports are awaited and a probe is on.Nepal to propose BIMSTEC meet for August

Nepal is to propose to hold the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation or BIMSTEC summit on coming August end or early September.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 3

Posting a message on Facebook against a Punjab and Haryana High Court Judge has landed a lawyer in trouble. Making it clear that the dignity of the judicial system can be lowered with the publication of a Facebook post as well, a Division Bench has sentenced contemnor-advocate Manish Vashishth to a months simple imprisonment.

The suo motu contempt case had been initiated against the Narnaul-based advocate after he posted on Facebook remarks against a High Court Judge in connection with a judicial order passed by him on August 24 last year. The Bench noted that the order was passed in some personal litigation involving the contemnor.

In his Facebook post, Vashishth alleged that the judgment passed against him by the High Court was not speaking and a better decision could have been written by a magistrate. He claimed that the Judge had not uploaded the judgment as he might not have understood what was to be written.

The Bench asserted that such a derogatory remark was contemptuous on the face of it and as such, the contemnor was held guilty of having committed contempt of court.

The Bench noted that the general publics faith in the judiciary would be shattered in case punishment was not awarded to a person scandalising and lowering the authority of not just the court but also the judiciary in the eyes of the general public by his publication.

The dignity and authority of the court has to be maintained not only by the general public, but also by advocates, who constitute an important part of the system of the administration of justice and are considered as officers of the court, asserted the Bench of Justice MMS Bedi and Hari Pal Verma.

Before parting with the order, the Bench stated that the order of sentence would not be implemented till the Supreme Court reopened after the summer break on July 2 for enabling him to avail the statutory right to file an appeal.

He should surrender in the Narnaul CJMs court on July 31 to undergo the sentence, the Bench ruled. In case of failure, it would be open to the CJM to issue warrants of arrest against the contemnor, subject to any order passed by the appellate court, the Bench concluded.editorial@tribune.com

Lalit Mohan

Tribune News Service

Dharamsala, June 3

Water crisis in Shimla and closure of many hotels due to illegal constructions, have adversely impacted tourism in Dharamsala region. The Hotel Association of Dharamsala has claimed that this year they suffered a loss of about Rs 30 lakh per day.

Ashwani Bamba, the president of the hotel association, said there had been steep drop in the inflow of tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh this summer. The news regarding water crisis in Shimla had spread across the world. Even international tourists who used to come to Dharamsala during summers had cancelled their bookings, he said.

When asked, how the water crisis in Shimla had impacted tourism in Dharamsala region, Bamba said most of the tourists who came to Himachal Pradesh generally travelled in circuits. The tourists visit, Shimla, Dharamsala and Manali in a circuit. The cancellation of bookings in Shimla have also impacted Dharamsala, he said.

Sanjeev Gandhi, the general secretary of the hotel association, said generally in May and June, the rooms in Dharamsala region were sold out. However, this year in June also, most of the hotel rooms were vacant. Besides, about 140 hotels had lost their water and power connections and were non-functional so the loss to the tourism industry was tremendous, he said.

Though the tourism industry contributes just 4 per cent to the GDP of Himachal Pradesh, the sector generates large number of direct and indirect employment. The closure of hotels and sharp decline in the number of tourists visiting the state could adversely impact employment and economy in the state.editorial@tribune.com

Jalandhar: As many as 5,368 cartons of illegal liquor were seized from a liquor vend at Tibba village on the RCF road in Sultanpur Lodhi. Officials said various vends in the area had been sealed last night by teams of the Excise Department which came from Jalandhar after these were found to have liquor without permits. An official said the liquor was found to be without permit and despite repeated calls to the contractor, no one turned up and no proof was presented by the parties concerned. He said a huge amount of illegal liquor had been seized from one of the stores which had many cartons of whisky. He said the counting of the liquor bottles at a vend at Thatta Purana village had not been done yet. It had also been sealed last night. He said vehicles filled with liquor at Thatta Purana village were being taken to another place. It was also witnessed on the occasion that some of the liquor was being taken out of a nearby vend which also had thousands of liquor cartons. OCeditorial@tribune.com

Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, June 2

Militants carried out a series of grenade attacks in Srinagar on Saturday, injuring seven persons, including four Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

The grenade attacks coincided with the anniversary of the first battle of Islam -- Battle of Badr -- being observed on Saturday. The security forces are on a high alert in the Valley as Intelligence inputs indicated that militants may carry out attacks around the Badr anniversary.

The first grenade attack took place in old city.

Militants lobbed a grenade at CRPF men deployed on law and order duty in the Fatehkadal locality of Srinagar around 6 pm. In the incident, three CRPF men sustained splinter injuries and were evacuated to the nearest hospital, CRPF spokesman in Srinagar Sanjay Sharma said. He said the condition of the injured was reported to be stable.

At least two pedestrians received minor injuries in the attack. The police have started investigation into the case.

Almost two hours later around 8 pm, militants lobbed a grenade at a CRPF bunker near the Budshah Bridge in the city, injuring a CRPF man and a civilian.

One jawan was injured in the attack, the spokesman said.

The third grenade attack took place on the police control room in the Magarmal Bagh area of Srinagar around 8.30 pm. The grenade exploded outside the Police Control complex. There was no loss of life or injury to anyone in the attack. The grenade attacks took place on a day when curfew and restrictions were imposed in many parts of Srinagar to thwart protests against the death of a youth who was run over by a CRPF vehicle during clashes on Friday. The Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the first two attacks. On Friday, four grenade attacks took place in south Kashmir and Srinagar, leaving seven persons, including four CRPF men, injured.

SPO succumbs to injuries

A special police officer (SPO), Aqib Wagay, who was shot at by militants in south Kashmirs Pulwama district four days ago, succumbed to injuries at a Srinagar hospital on Saturday eveninguttara@tribuneindia.com

Tribune News Service

Jammu, June 3

A special court remanded suspect in the Nagorta militant attack in National Investigation Agencys custody for six days.

The suspect, Taraq Dar, is a timber dealer from Pulwama, and was arrested on Saturday. The NIA has accused him of helping Pakistani militants strike an army installation in Nagrota in November 26, 2016.

His revelations corroborate disclosures made by the previously arrested accused Muneer-Ul-Hassan Qadri of Kupwara who had revealed that he along with other valley-based operatives were in touch with the JeM leadership in Pakistan and had received a freshly infiltrated group of three Pakistani terrorists a day before the attack.

Three gunmen attacked a military installation at Jammus Nagrota on November 26, 2016. Seven armymen and all three militants were killed in an overnight standoff.pardeepdhull@gmail.com

Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, June 3

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday appealed to the Directors-General of Military Operations (DGMOs) to hold talks again to stop fresh bloodshed along the border.

The fresh shelling along the border is unfortunate and this shelling happened despite DGMOs talks. We have lost two BSF jawans and people on both sides are dying. The DGMOs should talk again to stop bloodshed, Mehbooba told reporters on the sidelines of a party function in Srinagar.

Two BSF personnel, including an officer, were killed on Sunday as Pakistani Rangers targeted Indian posts along the International Border in Jammu region. The fresh ceasefire violation took place days after the DGMO-level talks agreed to implement the 2003 ceasefire agreement.editorial@tribune.com

Srinagar, June 2

A shutdown was observed across the Kashmir valley on Saturday in response to an appeal by three key separatist leaders to protest against the recent incidents of violence involving security forces.

The markets across the region remained closed while public transport remained suspended in response to the separatists appeal for the shutdown.

In Srinagars main commercial hub of Lal Chowk, shops remained shuttered and thin traffic was seen on deserted roads.

The shutdown was called by Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik, who had appealed to the residents to register a strong and peaceful protest against the recent incidents of civilian killings and the alleged desecration of religious places and graveyards.

The trio which refers to itself as the joint resistance leadership had said the shutdown would also be a protest against the unnecessary and unjustified deployment of heavy contingents of forces near Jamia Masjid in Srinagar and chopping of orchards at Sugam in Shopian.

The separatist leaders were detained by the police as the law and order situation aggravated after a youth, who was mowed down by a paramilitary vehicle, succumbed at a hospital on Friday night. While Geelani and Mirwaiz were detained at their residences, Malik was arrested.

It is the first shutdown during Ramzan in Kashmir and was announced a day after the separatist leaders expressed their willingness to join the dialogue process with New Delhi.  TNS

Markets remain closededitorial@tribune.com

Srinagar, June 3

The unilateral ceasefire during the holy month of Ramzan may have brought a halt to anti-militancy operations in Kashmir but security agencies have warned of a rise in recruitment of local youth into militant groups, that has crossed 80.

Security officials said more youth from the highly-volatile Shopian and Pulwama districts in south Kashmir continued to join militant groups, including ISIS-Kashmir and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, a group which claims support of the Al-Qaeda.

As many as 20 more youth have joined the militant groups in May, the officials said. The officials said another 16 were missing mainly from the twin districts and a probe was on to ascertain whether they had joined any terror group.

The officials said infiltration was also picking up and some of the terrorists had managed to sneak in from Poonch and Rajouri district of the Jammu region as well as from the Line of Control in the Kashmir valley. This created a more alarming situation for security forces which were readying themselves for the two-month-long Amarnath yatra beginning at the month-end.

According to the officials, 2018 might end as the worst year in terms of number of youth joining various militant groups as the figures indicated that 81 youth had joined until May this year. In 2017, a total of 126 youths had picked up guns. It was the highest number since 2010, according to a recent data presented in the state Assembly and Parliament.

There has been a steady rise in the number of youth taking up arms in the Valley since 2014 as compared to 2010-2013 when figures stood at 54, 23, 21 and 6 in the respective years. In 2014, the number shot up to 53 and in 2015, it reached 66 before touching the highest mark of 88 in 2016, the data showed.

This years recruitment of youth joining militancy includes Junaid Ashraf Sehrai, 26, an MBA degree holder from Kashmir University, and son of Mohammed Ashraf Sehrai, who took over as chairman of Tehreek-e-Hurriyat from Syed Ali Shah Geelani. Tehreek-e-Hurriyat is a pro-Pakistan amalgam of separatists groups.

The list also includes a 26-year-old PhD scholar Mannan Bashir Wani hailing from Kupwara, officials said. Wani was studying in Aligarh Muslim University.

According to a report prepared by the CID, which has been shared with the Union Home Ministry, the past three years have witnessed a consistent rise in the number of active local militants even in the face of successful anti-militancy operations undertaken by the security forces.

It therefore become imperative for the state to deconstruct why, while militants are being killed, militancy continues to rise, the report had said.

The report said the situation is such that terrorists encounters have turned into a spectacle in the recent years with attacks on encounter sites by protesters followed by glamourised funerals. The entire phenomenon has had a tendency to create an emotionally charged environment which is ideal for recruiting fresh cadres, it said.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, June 2

The National investigating Agency (NIA) on Saturday made second arrest in the 2016 Nagrota Army camp attack.

A timber dealer from south Kashmir, Tariq Ahmad Dar, 34, was arrested by the NIA during the investigation of the case. Tariq is a resident of Chillipura, Zanipora, Shopian.

Tariq was involved in assisting Pakistani terrorists who carried out the attack, an NIA spokesman said.

On May 26, the NIA had made a major breakthrough in the case when it arrested a resident of north Kashmirs Kupwara district, Muneer-ul-Hassan Qadri. He was accused of having received three Jaish militants, who had infiltrated into the Samba sector in the Jammu region, a day ahead of the attack. However, Qadris family denied the NIA allegation, claiming that he was being framed.

On early hours of November 29, 2016, three fidayeen militants stormed the Nagrota Army base. In the gunfight that followed seven soldiers and the three fidayeen ultras were killed. There was also a hostage crisis after militants entered into two buildings which were occupied by officers.

Tariq disclosed during interrogation that the attack was carried out by the Jaish-e-Mohammad, a banned terror group based in Pakistan.

His revelations corroborate disclosures made by the previously arrested accused Muneer-ul-Hassan Qadri of Kupwara who had revealed that he along with other Valley-based operatives were in touch with the Jaish leadership in Pakistan and had received a freshly infiltrated group of three Pakistani terrorists a day before the attack. Subsequently, they had stayed at a hotel in Jammu and then left the attackers at Nagrota outside the Army camp late at night and proceeded to the Kashmir valley, the spokesman said.

The accused was arrested with the assistance of the J&K Police, the spokesman said.

After arrest, Tariq is being brought from Srinagar to Jammu to be produced before the NIA special judge for seeking police custody.editorial@tribune.com

Dinesh Manhotra

Tribune News Service

Jammu, June 3

Pakistan Rangers on Sunday morning pounded a famous spot, locally known as the Sohni-Mahiwal meeting point, situated on the banks of the Chenab, in Jammu district. The place is situated at Hamirpur Kona village where locals believe Sohni, the heroine of a famous folk story, used to meet Mahiwal.

This morning Pakistani soldiers targeted civilian areas in the Pargwal and Kanachak sectors, Rajesh Kumar, a local resident told The Tribune over phone after witnessing intense firing along the International Border.

Although there was no report of any major loss in the belt, peace was ultimately shattered in the area where this symbol of eternal love is situated.

After a long gap, tension flared up in the border belt due to firing from across the border. A couple of months ago when Pakistani soldiers shelled the Kanachak area, this belt had remained calm. However, now peace has been disturbed, said Rajesh, adding that he feared the situation might worsen in the days to come.

Khour police personnel said many families from Hamirpur Kona migrated to safer places after the firing. While there was no report of shelling in Hamirpur Sidhar, Pakistan targeted Hamirpur Kona village, a police official said.

According to local folklore, the Sohni-Mahiwal meeting point is the area where Sohni used to meet Mahiwal. Border dwellers believe Sohni was married at Hamirpur Sidhar village which is situated on the right bank of the Chenab, 64 km from Jammu. Mahiwal lived on the left bank of the river at Hamirpur Kona village in a hut under the guise of a beggar. Sohni regularly met Mahiwal in this hut.Nepal won't seek Saarc's alternative: Foreign Minister Gyawali

Foreign Minister Pradip Gyawali has said currently Nepal's foreign policy was focused on neighbours, regional organizations, multilateral organizations and labour destinations.editorial@tribune.com

Vikram Sharma

Tribune News Service

Jammu, June 3

Reacting to the renewed aggression on the International Border in the Kanachak sector where two BSF soldiers were killed in Pakistan shelling on Sunday, BJP state president Ravinder Raina said time was fast approaching when India would be left with no option but to strike its neighbours territory deep inside.

Pakistan is testing our patience. If it does not mend its ways, India will lose patience and give it a more befitting reply, much harder than the last surgical strikes, the state BJPpresident said while talking to The Tribune.

Though the BJP state president talked of Indias patience, he could not specifically answer as to how long India will suffer due to the Union Home Ministrys policy of not striking first and giving the enemy an upper hand to attack.

We are a peaceful nation that has global recognition. We are not a terrorist state like Pakistan, which has surrendered its control to the ISI, military and other militant outfits, he added.

Raina, however, said though the Union Home Ministry gave a consideration for a peaceful ceasefire in the holy month of Ramzan, which was impiously defied by Pakistan, India would not hesitate in striking back hard to any extent, if required.

Talking about Pakistans strategy of keeping the International Border explosive in Jammu province and terrorist ingression from south Kashmir leading to the failure of the state and Central governments, the BJP leader said, Over the past years, it is for the first time that Pakistan has received continuous blows on its terrorist activities both from across and within the state, which has left it desperate.

Islamabad testing patience

Pakistan is testing our patience. If it does not mend its ways, India will lose patience and give it a more befitting reply, much harder than the last surgical strikes. We are a peaceful nation. We are not a terrorist state, like Pakistan, which has surrendered its control to the ISI, military and other militant outfits. Ravinder Raina, BJP State Presidenteditorial@tribune.com

Jammu, June 2

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday said the Army and other security forces are soft targets for some Kashmir-centric political circles who lack courage and conviction to condemn even acts of terror by known terrorists.

Jitendra Singh, the Minister of State (MoS) in Prime Ministers Office (PMO), was reacting to a tweet from National Conference working president Omar Abdullah, condemning the killing of a protester who was mowed down by a CRPF vehicle in downtown Srinagar on Friday.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, June 3

Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday said now was the right time for separatists to come forward for dialogue. She said the unilateral ceasefire and dialogue offer opportunity does not come every day.

We always say that J&K is a political problem and needs a solution. The Army, CRPF or the police cannot resolve it. It can only be resolved politically through dialogue and when there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre, I request all stakeholders to come forward to save J&K and its economy, Mehbooba said while addressing a Peoples Democratic Partys delegate convention of central Kashmir in Srinagar.

Mehbooba, however, said she could not force or dictate terms to separatists, but would only request them as it is the right time to use this opportunity of talks. A youth got killed after he came under a (security forces) vehicle during a stone-throwing incident. He was an orphan but why take to stone-throwing in the first place. Why not give these boys a way out from stone-throwing and gun culture. We gave you unilateral ceasefire, now it is up to you (the separatists). I request them to take this opportunity, the CM said.

Mehbooba said separatists always say that military solution is no solution and only dialogue is the way forward. So, today you have an offer of dialogue from the Home Minister. They (Centre) are saying that come and talk to us. I think if J&K has to be taken out of the difficult times, then all  be it mainstream or separatists  have to come forward and use this opportunity. Such an opportunity does not come every day, she said. She said people of Kashmir and the leadership had to decide that they should get the benefit of the unilateral ceasefire announced by the Centre.

The Home Minister of this country is saying that they want to embrace Kashmiris and are ready for talks. If this opportunity is lost, tomorrow there would be nobody left to plead our case. The eyes of the whole country are on J&K and its leadership to see what they decide, she added.

Mehbooba, who is also the president of the PDP, said grenades and violence would not achieve anything.

Despite the unilateral ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved? she asked.

On the Indo-Pak friendship, she said it was in the best interest of the people of the state as it had a direct bearing on the people here.

Even the arch-rivals North Korea and South Korea are now meeting to sort out issues, why cant we? she asked and pitched for opening of more historic routes in the state to increase people-to-people contact. Help me in maintaining peace, I assure you of opening of more such historic routes in the state, she said.

Appeals for fresh DGMO-level meeting

Srinagar: Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday appealed to the Directors-General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan to hold talks again to stop fresh bloodshed along the border. The fresh shelling along the border is unfortunate and has happened despite the DGMOs talks. We have lost two BSF men and many civilians have been injured. This should not happen. People on both sides are dying. The DGMOs should talk again to stop the bloodshed and shelling on the border, Mehbooba told reporters on the sidelines of a party function in Srinagar on Sunday. Two BSF men, including an officer, were killed on Sunday as the Pakistan Rangers targeted Indian posts along the International Border in the Jammu region. The fresh ceasefire violation took place days after the DGMOs of the two countries agreed to implement the 2003 ceasefire agreement.vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Mona

Only we humans make waste that nature cannot digest. - Charles Moore

...And, its only now that we see how detrimental we have been to our source of life. And, surely enough one cannot helps but take charge.

As India hosts World Environment Day with theme Beat Plastic Pollution, celebs join in the mass movement taking along their millions of followers.

A self proclaimed an earth-bound mermaid...Pooja Bhatts twitter page is more about environmental concerns than films. And owing to who she is, she is taken seriously. On one of the occasions, she complained about illegal felling of trees pressing both Mumbai police and Mumbai North Central District Forum into action. And no shes not just instructing folks to get things done but gets down and dirty for the cause close to her heart. At World Environment Day celebrations at Versova beach around end of May she pointed out how a hand-painted banner would later be turned into carry-all bags. The change must start with ourselves, she tweets.

With 17.3 million followers Alia Bhatt commands quite a presence and she makes a case for beating plastic pollution by switching to steel or glass bottles. Plastic bottles take 450 years or more to decompose, harming us and our environment. Im now one step closer towards purging plastic from my life. Hope you guys will make the switch too! is her appeal.

Such small practical steps make a big difference and this is how Juhi Chawla is getting a step closer to purging plastic from her life. Whether its bamboo straws, by now we all know plastic straws are super hazardous to marine life; or using eco-friendly totes, trust her to share and spread her concerns.

Joining the brigade of green girls is Dia Mirza. Trending in #BeatPlasticPollution, in a video message on her social media handle Dia confesses to have switched to biodegradable sanitary napkins. And there is Shahid Kapoors impassioned appeal, If you cant reuse it, refuse it if only we could tread the path. What is your commitment to #BeatPlasticPollution this #WorldEnvironmentDay?

Amongst the stars who have walked the talk is Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio. A foundation by his name is working through partnerships in climate change, wildlife and indigenous rights. In fact as a tribute to mark the 20th anniversary of the Foundation, a new water beetle has been named after its Oscar winning actor.

An eco friendly makeup line called Flower Beauty is animal activist Drew Barrymores way to give back to nature.

So whats yours one step closer to purging plastic from life?

mona@tribunemail.comshalender@tribune.com

Many popular actors are sharing their #Metoo stories where they open up about a past sexual assault or harassment faced by them. The latest to join the list is Shrenu Parikh who played Gauri in Ishqbaaaz. She took to social media to talk about a molestation act that she faced at 6.

Shrenu, in her Instagram post, revealed that she was molested in a local bus by a man who made her sit on his lap and touched her inappropriately. The actress wrote, Those days we travelled in a local bus! And when the seats used to be occupied my grandfather used to request someone to share the seat for me! Similarly, one uncle offered to nanu that il make her sit on my lap. He agreed, thought at least I wont get tired, he made me sit on his lap! I could sense something is wrong but I went all numb and thought its ok for him to hold me like that! I could see my nanu standing a little away from me but couldnt tell him anything!

I wish I would have spoken about it, I wish that man wouldve gotten his share of punishment.vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Bhanu P Lohumi

Tribune News Service

Shimla, June 3

With residents on the social media asking tourists to keep off water-starved Shimla, tourism business in the town has been severely hit. Up to 50-60 per cent hotel bookings stand cancelled and the occupancy rate too has dropped by half.

Tourism Industry Stakeholders Association president MK Seth claims while the per day loss to the hotel industry is Rs 60 lakh, the losses to allied sectors are even more.

There are 268 registered hotels in Shimla with 4,356 rooms.

We urge Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur to rescue the ailing tourism industry by issuing an advisory that all is well in Shimla and that hoteliers are providing safe water to tourists through tankers, Seth says. The 670 unregistered flats in Shimlas residential areas and suburbs are eating into the water share of domestic consumers, he reasons, adding that the situation is unlikely to improve until action is taken against these units.

High taxes apart, the governments failure to develop tourist places in the suburbs and provide basic amenities are also cited as reasons for the Shimlas tourism woes.

Meanwhile, government schools in the Municipal Corporation area have been closed for a week and a section of residents is moving out to native places. I will be leaving for Mandi with my family as there is no water in the town. I hope things turn normal soon, says Jakhoo resident Devender Sharma.

Stepping in, the Army has provided water browsers to the MC to assist in ferrying water to the far reaches. The Shimla-based Army Training Command has set up a joint monitoring mechanism and instituted effective water-saving measures.

Some establishments producing mineral water have chipped in too. The water provided by them is being supplied by the police free of cost at public places and police stations. Also, some shopkeepers have slashed mineral water prices. A restaurant run by the HPTDC at the Ridge has opened a counter to sell mineral water.vermaajay1968@gmail.com

New Delhi, June 3

A VIP Embraer aircraft carrying External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to South Africa had gone incommunicado for 14 minutes, triggering a mid-air scare after the Mauritius Air Traffic Control pressed the panic button, an official statement said on Sunday.

Contact could not be established with the Indian Air Force flight IFC 31 after it left Male ATC for Mauritius airspace on Saturday, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) said in a statement.

Instead of waiting for the mandatory 30 minutes, the uncertainty phase was activated, known as INCERFA in aviation parlance, it said. This was perhaps done because the flight was carrying a VIP, the AAI said.

Since the Embraer-135 aircraft does not have a long range, it had stopovers at Thiruvananthapuram and Mauritius for refuelling.

The flight had left for Mauritius from Thiruvananthapuram at 2.08 pm. After it left the Indian airspace, it was handed over to the Male ATC, which established contact with the flight at 4.44 pm IST.

Soon after it was handed over to the Mauritius ATC, the incident unfolded, leading to panic. However, the aircraft came in contact with the ATC there at 4.58 pm, the AAI said. The Ministry of External Affairs has not commented on the issue so far. Swaraj is in South Africa to attend the BRICS and IBSA meets.

An official conversant with the ATC issues over the Indian Ocean region said the problem in contacting the flight could have arisen due to weak radar coverage as flights have to rely on VHF communication, which has its own set of issues.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Shubhadeep Choudhury

Tribune News Service

Kolkata, June 2

Close on the heels of the murder of a BJP youth wing member at Balarampur in Purulia district of West Bengal, another BJP worker was found hanging from a transmission tower in the same locality.

The BJP alleged party worker Dulal Kumar, 32, whose body was found hanging from a tower in Balarampur, was murdered by ruling TMC supporters responding to party supremo Mamata Banerjees call of making the district Opposition-free.

Dulal, a resident of Dava village, owned a small shop near the Balarampur-Baghmundi road. Last night, he went to deliver food to his father, who was night staying at the shop. His body was found hanging from the tower this morning.

Dulals death triggered uproar among the locals who protested outside the Balarampur police station, demanding immediate arrest of the culprits. The police cane-charged the protesters to control the situation.

Two days ago, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha leader Trilochan Mahato, 20, was found hanging from a tree in the same area. A poster was found affixed on the back of his body with a message written in Bangla, 18 bachhor bayose BJP rajneeti. Ebar bojh (BJP politics at the age of 18. Now take this).

The BJP alleged the deaths were political murders and demanded a CBI inquiry into the two incidents, even as the West Bengal Government transferred Purulia Superintendent of Police (SP) Joy Biswas. He has been replaced by Akash Magharia. The killings are linked to the recently concluded state panchayat elections which saw large-scale violence and deaths.

The results had shown the BJP as having made strong inroads into former Maoist bastions Purulia and Jhargram. Though it trails the ruling TMC in both, the party has won more than a third of the gram panchayat seats in these two districts with the backing of the tribal population. This has evidently attracted the reprisals from the ruling TMC. Following Trilochans murder, the NHRC issued a notice to the state Chief Secretary, seeking a report. The DGP has also been asked to intimate the present status of investigation and steps taken to ensure that such incidents do not recur in future. They have been given four weeks to respond.

TMC failed to maintain law, order

Distressed to know about yet another killing of BJP karyakarta Dulal Kumar in Balrampur, West Bengal. This continued brutality and violence in the land of West Bengal is shameful and inhuman. Mamata Banerjees govt has completely failed to maintain law and order in the state.  Amit Shah, BJP president

Bajrang Dal, Maoist or BJP involved?

We strongly condemn this despicable killing. All angles must be probed. The perpetrators of this heinous act must be punished. What role did Jharkhand border have to play? What elements of Bajrang Dal, Maoist or BJP involved. Let the truth be found out through proper investigation.  Derek O Brien, TMC leader

(With agency inputs)editorial@tribune.com

New Delhi, June 3

The Congress on Sunday accused the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh of electoral misconduct by including the names of 60 lakh fake voters in the voters' list and requested the Election Commission (EC) to remove all such entries from the electoral rolls of the 230 Assembly constituencies in the state. Following which, the EC formed four teams to look into the allegation. The teams will start their probe on Monday and submit report by June 7.

A delegation of the party, led by Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath, met EC officials and alleged the BJP government in the state had included the names of 60 lakh fake voters in the electoral roll.

We have given proof to the EC that the voters' list of Madhya Pradesh is fraudulent. Sixty lakh fake voters have been enlisted in it. We have conducted our own enquiry in 100 constituencies.

We have given proof to the EC as regards how one voter has been enlisted in different constituencies with the same name, address and father's name. This cannot be any mistake, it has been done deliberately by the present Madhya Pradesh government, Nath told reporters after meeting the EC officials here.

The Congress leaders also requested the EC for a special monitoring mechanism to remove all multiple and demographically similar entries and urged the poll panel to inform all the national political parties on a weekly basis about the status of identification of such voters at least at the district level.

The terms of reference of the teams formed by the EC include enquiring into each specific issues raised in the complaint; to find out the alleged fake voters' name, if any; to find out how did it happen and fix the responsibility to initiate appropriate action. The teams will verify electoral rolls in Narela, Bhojpur, Hoshangabad and Seoni Malwa Assembly constituencies.

Demanding action against returning officers for their alleged involvement in fraudulent electoral rolls, the Congress leaders also said the EC should not deploy them on poll duty in the future.  AgenciesNo House rules before a month

Appointments to crucial constitutional positions have been pushed further as parliamentary regulations, a must for forming the Parliamentary Hearing Committee, are unlikely to be approved anytime soon.uttara@tribuneindia.com

New Delhi, June 3

The Election Commission on Sunday ordered a probe into allegations of large-scale discrepancies in the voters list of Madhya Pradesh.

Soon after a Congress delegation approached it on the issue, the poll panel formed two teams to probe the allegations.

The teams have to submit a report by June 7.

The Congress claimed there are at least 60 lakh bogus voters in the state, which will go to polls in November.

The party also submitted evidence to the EC to buttress its allegation.

We have provided evidence to the Election Commission. There are approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the state. These are not merely mistakes. The lists have been deliberately altered at the behest of BJP government in the state, Congresss Kamal Nath said.

The EC teams will visit the Narela, Bhojpur, Seoni-Malwa and Hoshangabad assembly seats to ascertain how the discrepancies occurred.

After reaching the state tomorrow, the teams would also fix responsibility for multiple and fake entries, EC said.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Patna, June 5

Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh on Saturday said the protest by farmers in various parts of the country were attempts to get media attention, triggering demands by Opposition parties for his removal.

The minister said the farmers opted for "unusual deeds" to draw media attention as they belong to organisations with only a few thousand members.

The farmers have launched a 10-day agitation to press their demands, including loan waiver and right price for crops. They dumped vegetables, milk and other farm produce on roads and blocked supplies to cities in several states on Friday.

It requires some unusual deeds to appear in the media. There are crores of farmers in the country but only a few farmers have been staging protest. It has no relevance at all, the minister said at a press conference when asked about the agitation.

The ministers remarks drew sharp reaction from Opposition parties in Bihar, which accused him of being insensitive to the farmersplight and demanded his removal. It is the height of insensitivity on part of the Union Agriculture Minister at a time when farmers are under so much distress. He should be sacked immediately, RJD spokesman Manoj Jha said.

Congress legislature party leader in the state assembly Sadanand Singh said the BJP has been ridiculing distressed farmers instead of solving their problems.

The minister's remarks are insensitive. Thirty-five farmers commit suicide every 24 hours, but the Modi government seems to be impervious to their plight, he said.  PTI

Stir enters 2nd day; veggie prices soareditorial@tribune.com

Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 2

Nearly six months after the names of 11 advocates were cleared for elevation as Punjab and Haryana High Court Judges, the Haryana Government has sent it back to the collegium.

The advocates include the daughter of Punjab and Haryana High Courts former Judge and three law officers, including two from Punjab and one of Haryana.

The names were recommended by the collegium comprising the then Chief Justice Shiavax Jal Vazifdar, Justice Ajay Kumar Mittal and Justice Surya Kant after it met in November last.

Soon after the finalisation of the recommendations, the names were forwarded to both Punjab and Haryana Governments, along with the Supreme Court, in accordance with the prescribed procedure.

Available information suggests the list met Punjab Governments immediate approval, but the Haryana Government kept considering the matter till it finally sent the file back for reconsideration with certain objections. It is believed that the names of three District and Sessions Judges have, meanwhile, been approved by both the governments and would now be considered further by the Supreme Court collegium.

Soon after taking over as the Chief Justice, Justice Krishna Murari said the elevation of Judges was an issue that required going into. But as of now, he was to update himself regarding the status of the recommendations. I have to see how many recommendations have been made; and whether the same are pending, Justice Murari said.

This is not the first time that a list forwarded by the collegium has hit a blockade. Former Chief Justice Vijender Kumar Jain had  at the fag end of his tenure  recommended the names of six district and sessions judges for elevation. But the move was strongly opposed by the then Punjab Governor Gen SF Rodrigues (retd).

He was reportedly of the opinion that Chief Justice Jain was on his way out and the recommendations should come from the new chief.

Otherwise also, the convention has been that the Chief Justice should send the list if he knows that he will still be in office to see the list through to the end. But in the current case, the names were recommended almost six months before the retirement of Chief Justice Vazifdar.

Another list of six advocates sent by outgoing Chief Justice Mukul Mudgal was reviewed and approved by the High Court collegium headed by the next Chief Justice after it was sent back.

Recommendationseditorial@tribune.com

Shiv Kumar

Tribune News Service

Mumbai, June 3

Files pertaining to absconding jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi besides several others wanted for economic offences have been destroyed in a major fire that broke out on the premises of the Income Tax Department on Friday, according to sources.

The fire, which broke out at the heritage Scindia House building in South Mumbais Ballard Estate area around 5 pm on Friday evening, raged on till early Saturday. Fire Brigade officials said it was a Level 4 fire which indicated a high level of seriousness. Seven persons, who were trapped in the premises, were rescued by the fire department.

Cooling operations were completed only by Saturday afternoon and officials of the Income Tax Department and the Debt Recovery Tribunal, whose offices were completely gutted, managed to enter the premises only late in the evening to assess the damage.

According to initial information available from the fire department, the blaze started in the offices of the Income Tax Department and quickly spread to other parts of the building.

Sources in the Income Tax Department said files pertaining to Modi and Choksi apart from some documents relating to the Essar Group were also in the premises. All of them are undergoing investigation for fraud or facing bankruptcy proceedings. They, however, added that it will take them a few days to actually assess the damage caused by the blaze.

RTI activist Anil Galgali, who has obtained a number of documents under the sunshine law, told reporters that the fire may have been deliberately caused by vested interests.

News reports appearing in some sections of media alleging that records/documents relating to investigation of Nirav Modi/Mehul Choksi have been destroyed in the Scindia House fire in ITOffice,Mumbai are completely false & misdirected @PMOIndia @FinMinIndia @arunjaitley @adhia03  Income Tax India (@IncomeTaxIndia) June 3, 2018

On the other hand, Income Tax officials felt that the fire would only cause some delays in investigations and files lost in the fire will take time to be reconstructed. Copies of documents are usually available at various other locations, but it will take time to reconstruct the files, a source at the Income Tax Department said.editorial@tribune.com

Vibha Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 3

Amid expressions of outrage by some Congress leaders and surprise from others over former President Pranab Mukherjees proposed visit to RSS headquarters, Sangh leaders say this is not the first time a top non-BJP leader has come visiting Nagpur or attended their function.

In fact, a recent statement by BJPs ideological fountainhead said those aware of its working and functioning would find nothing ashcharyajanaksurprising or newin Mukherjee attending the function.

While political observers beleive a person of Mukherjees political calibre would not have taken the decision without some thinking, senior RSS leaders say they are in contact with top leaders of many parties.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi may be a staunch critic of the RSS, there are many who have openly appreciated its work, they add.

The RSS statement explains how after the 1962 war, former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had praised the RSS and invited it to participate in the Republic Day Parade in 1963 in which 3,000 swayamsevaks participated. After the 1965 India-Pakistan war, the then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri also invited sarsanghchalak Gurujee to participate in an all-party meeting, it added.

On the controversy over his June 7 visit to RSS headquarters in Nagpur, former President Pranab Mukherjee said he would respond to the issue during the event itself.uttara@tribuneindia.com

Shiv Kumar

Tribune News Service

Mumbai, June 3

Files on absconding jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi apart from several others wanted for economic offences have been destroyed in a major fire at the premises of the Income Tax department on Friday, according to sources here.



The fire that broke out at the heritage Scindia House building in South Mumbai's Ballard Estate area around 5 pm on Friday evening raged on till early Saturday. Fire Brigade officials said it was a Level 4 fire, which indicated a high-level of seriousness. Seven persons who trapped in the premises were rescued by the fire department.



Cooling operations were completed only by Saturday afternoon and officials of the Income Tax department and the Debt Recovery Tribunal, whose offices were completely gutted, managed to enter the premises only late in the evening to assess the damage.



According to initial information available from the fire department, the blaze started in the offices of the Income Tax department and quickly spread to other parts of the building.



Sources in the Income Tax department said files pertaining to Modi and Choksi, as well as some documents relating to the Essar group, were also on the premises. They are all undergoing investigation for fraud or facing bankruptcy proceedings.

Sources in the department said assessment of the actual damage would take a few days.

RTI activist Anil Galgali, who has obtained a number of documents under the sunshine law, told reporters that the fire may have been deliberately caused by vested interests.



On the other hand, Income Tax officials felt that the fire would only cause some delays in investigations and files lost in the fire will take time to be reconstructed.

"Copies of documents are usually available at various other locations, but it will take time to reconstruct the files," a sources at the Income Tax department said.



Both Modi and Choksi are key suspects in a massive Rs 13,000 crore loan fraud involving several banks, including, most importantly, India's second largest public sector bank, the Punjab National Bank. The fraudwhich made headlines for days when the bank made a filing to the country's market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India, admitting there was an ongoing investigation into the loan fraudis the largest the country has ever seen.

Both Modi and Choksi are currently on the run.vermaajay1968@gmail.com

Shillong, June 3

Curfew in pockets of Shillong was relaxed for seven hours on Sunday, even as Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the violence that broke out on Thursday was a local issue and not communal in nature.

A team of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders, including Delhi MLA Manjinder Singh Sirsa and Delhi unit chief president Manjit Singh, visited the Meghalaya capital in view of the clashes between two communities that left at least 10 persons injured.

The East Khasi Hills district authorities relaxed the curfew from 8 am to 3 pm to allow churchgoers to attend Sunday service. The night curfew would, however, continue in the entire city.

The problem is very much in a particular locality, on a particular issue. It just happened that two particular communities were involved, but its not a communal thing, Sangma said.

Meanwhile, the situation in the violence-hit area remained tense, but under control, with no report of fresh violence on Sunday.

The administration has deployed additional forces in vulnerable areas, especially around Punjabi Lane at Mothpran which was visited by the SAD team from New Delhi, along with Sangma.

The CM promised to ensure safety of our lives and property. The situation has improved, said Gurjeet Singh from Punjabi Lane. Families given shelter in the cantonment were not from the Sikh community, he added.

In New Delhi, Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said there has been no damage to any gurdwara or other institutions belonging to the Sikh community.

Thursdays clashes took place between residents of Punjabi Lane and employees of state-run buses belonging to the Khasi community. The violence erupted after a bus handyman was allegedly assaulted by a group of

area residents. Trouble escalated when rumours spread that he had succumbed to injuries.  TNS/PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Patna, June 2

A case was lodged against Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma in Bihars Sitamarhi district on Saturday for insulting Sita by claiming she was the first test-tube baby of India.

Chandan Kumar Singh, an advocate, filed the case in the Chief Judicial Magistrates court. It will be heard on June 8. The petitioner said Sharma had not only hurt peoples religious sentiments, but also insulted the countrys rich heritage, culture and tradition. Sharmas statement is part of a well-planned political and criminal conspiracy to hurt and insult sentiments of a particular religion. He said the BJP leaders illogical concept would make Hindu religion the butt of ridicule.

Sharma, who had once equated jets and airplanes with Pushpak Viman during Vedic times, claimed that Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, was, in fact, the first test-tube baby of India.

The Deputy CM, speaking at the inauguration of a skill development event in Uttar Pradeshs Mathura, said: Sita was born from an earthen pot... at that time, some test-tube baby project must be underway that King Janak was ploughing a field... Shouldnt this technology be called test-tube baby? he said to an amused gathering.  IANSNOC hikes fuel prices yet again

The state-owned Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) on Saturday increased the prices of petrol, diesel and aviation fuel, two weeks after the last adjustment. The new rates will come into effect from Saturday midnight, the NOC said. The NOC has increased the price of petrol by Rs3 to Rs113 per litre. It has increased diesel and kerosene prices by Rs3 a litre, respectively. With the revision, diesel and kerosene will cost Rs95 per litre. Aviation fuel sold to domestic carrier has been increased by Rs5 to Rs100 per litre. Likewise, aviation fuel sold to international airlines has been raised by $75 to $1000 per kilolitres.uttara@tribuneindia.com

Shahira Naim

Tribune News Service

Lucknow, June 3

Uttar Pradesh Police are investigating Kairana Member of Parliament Tabassum Hasans allegations that communal posts are being circulated on social media in her name.

Shamli Superintendent of Police Dev Ranjan Verma said that they were investigating Hasans allegations that some elements from right wing were involved in circulating communal posts that went viral soon after she was declared the winner of Monday's bitterly contested by-election.

Posts that Hasan has dismissed as propaganda include a communal quote widely attributed to her.

The FIR was registered against some unknown people under the Information Technology Act 269/18, as well as sections 295 A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs) and 298 (using words with deliberate intent to wound religious feelings) of the Indian Penal Code.

I have set up a five-member team to investigate the matter and submit a report by evening. This includes the IO of the case, two constables of the media cell and two members of the surveillance cells. Action would be taken against the culprits as soon as their report is submitted by evening, said Shamli SP.

Speaking to this reporter, the newly elected Kairana MP condemned forces that were attempting to vitiate the atmosphere.

Secular forces have to be on guard against such divisive forces. But people in Kairana have seen through their design and suffered enough and will not fall prey to their scheming ways once again. We have seen how they have repeatedly tried to hijack public attention by propping up such divisive falsehoods, Tabassum Hasan, a leader of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), said.singhking99@yahoo.com

Aditi Tandon

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 2

Notwithstanding the consternation in Congress camp over his upcoming Nagpur visit, former President Pranab Mukherjee today reiterated his plan to address RSS workers on June 7 saying he would respond to the issue in Nagpur.

Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur. I have received several letters and phone calls but I havent responded to anyone yet, Bengal daily Anandbazar Patrika today quoted Mukherjee as saying.

Also read: Nothing wrong if ex-Prez attends RSS function (by K. Natwar Singh)

The former Presidents remarks came after his ex-colleague in UPA Cabinet Jairam Ramesh joined the growing list of Congress leaders who have advised him to skip the ceremony in the interest of secularism.

Ramesh, in a letter to Mukherjee, is learnt to have expressed hurt over the move and said the visit would adversely impact secular solidarity in the country and send wrong signals when Congress and other parties were fighting the RSS ideology of hate and division.

While Congress continued to maintain silence on the issue saying it would react after hearing Mukherjee on June 7, former Finance Minister P Chidambaram recently exhorted Mukherjee to tell the RSS what was wrong with its ideology. Prior to Chidambaram, another Congress veteran and Leader of Oppposition in Kerala Ramesh Chennithala expressed the same sentiment.

Privately all Congress leaders are stupefied with Mukherjees acceptance of the RSS invitation. It is for them a deja vu moment considering in June 2017, Mukherjee, then President, invited RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for lunch to Rashtrapati Bhavan. The two sat for an hour while the government engaged the Opposition to build consensus around the upcoming presidential election candidate.

Congress leaders find yet another Mukherjee-Bhagwat meeting, nearly a year after the first, discomfiting. It upsets party president Rahul Gandhis consistent campaign against the Sangh as a divisive force and pushes back Congress principal anti-BJP agenda on the eve of 2019 General Election.

In this age of social media, optics and messaging matter the most. When a Congress man of decades and a former President attends an RSS event, he sends multiple signals to the domestic and global audiences, says a senior Congress leader. The BJP is naturally gloating over the developments. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently said, There is nothing called political untouchability and no cause to debate the former Presidents decision.amansharma@tribunemail.com

Kuljit Bains

More than 40 per cent of the students who trusted the schooling system of their state, Punjab, have nothing to show at the end of 10 years of formal education. That would be 1.5 lakh children  out of nearly 3.7 lakh who took the Punjab School Education Board Class 10 exam  who will not be able to apply for even semi-skilled jobs in the formal sector. It should be a chilling prospect to imagine how this lost generation approaches society as it comes of age and realises how it was betrayed. And this burden has been added to the state each year for decades now.

For reference, the national failure rate for Class 10 CBSE students was less than 14 per cent. That some would consider an unfair comparison, given the kind of schools the two boards serve, but there is no reason why that should not be the immediate reference point. There are more shocking details  in more than 50 schools in the state, no student crossed the Class 10 barrier; in 150 schools, the pass percentage was less than 10.

One convenient explanation given is that government schools make up a large share of the schools affiliated to the PSEB; and that the profile of the students there is such that it is hard to achieve great success. That is a completely false, defeatist, and feudal explanation. There is no reason why a child given food and education in school should not do better than failing; her parents caste, income, or education level should have no bearing. There are examples of dedicated teachers turning around schools overnight. In Ganga Ablu Ki village in Bathinda, all seven students in Class 12 failed last year, as the school had just one teacher. Following its shift from panchayat control to the Education Department, it received five teachers, who in just five months ensured all 22 appearing this year passed, with 19 getting the first division.

The policy of not detaining students till Class 8 is another factor blamed for students as well as teachers not taking early years of schooling seriously, and therefore affecting the later years. That may be true to an extent, but it should not be hard to imagine a few interventions to introduce the required pressure without detaining students. A standardised exam conducted for classes 5 and 8  without detaining the students  to assess the teachers work could do the trick.

There have been a few indications of innovative ideas being experimented with in the state. The Padho Punjab, Padhao Punjab scheme launched last year has shown dramatic improvement in reading and maths skills in junior classes, measured through independent testing of the outcomes. It involves training teachers in creative ways of engaging children, and some new books that trigger imagination. It would be interesting to see how this lot of children performs as they reach senior classes.

In contrast, some horrendous failures of the overall governance of the education system have been shown up by the last Class 10 results. The most serious fault appears to be teacher distribution, even as shortage remains an issue. In one school (Khabban Rajputan, Amritsar), all 63 Class 10 students failed because there was no maths teacher. In another (Gidder Pindi, Jalandhar), all 80 failed as the school had a Punjabi teacher teaching science and maths to both Class 10 and 12! At the same time, there are districts in Punjab with overstaffing. This is fundamental misgovernance; and it is universally acknowledged that political intervention is largely responsible for irregular distribution of teachers.

The states top leadership will have to intervene to ensure local vote politics, and money-making, is not allowed to disrupt professional management of the school system. However, for unpardonable failures such as above, the education bureaucracy from the district level up will also have to be taken to task. Just holding teachers to account will not do.

Concepts such as Adarsh/meritorious schools, or smart classes, sound good, and have their benefits, but these are designed more towards showing results for political gain. What matters more is universal application of resources and effort towards fundamental learning at the school stage, as opposed to merit based. It is the weakest child that needs the most help.editorial@tribune.com

PK Jaiswar

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, June

A day after the murder of Gurdeep Pehalwan, Congress councillor from Ward number 50, the police on Sunday booked eight persons  seven gangsters and a financier  following the statement of his family members.

Those who have been booked are Karan Masti, Sonu Mota, Arun Chhurimar, Rinka, Angrej, Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, Sonu Kangla and Bobby Malhotra.

Jagmohan Singh, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigation), said Bhagwanpuria, Kangla and Malhotra were already lodged in jails while a manhunt had been launched to nab others. Family members of the Congress councillor alleged that he was killed at the behest of Bhagwanpuria, who had an old enmity with him.

They claimed that the gangster had threatened to eliminate Pehalwan before he was caught over a year ago. Pehalwan had also lodged a complaint with the Kotwali police in that connection.

The post-mortem examination revealed that the assailants pumped eight bullets into the body of the victim before escaping.

Meanwhile, Congress workers and supporters attended his cremation in large numbers. Among those present were Cabinet ministers Navjot Singh Sidhu and OP Soni, state BJP president Shwait Malik, Congress MLAs Raj Kumar Verka and Sunil Datti and district Congress president Jugal Kishore Sharma.

The incident took place at a time when DGP Suresh Arora was in the city and heavy police force had been deployed in view of the anniversary of Operation Bluestar on June 6.

The markets around Pehalwans residence remained closed on Sunday to protest the killing.

People raised slogans against the police at the cremation ground. Heavy police force was deployed at the post-mortem house, his residence and at the Durgiana temple cremation ground.

Sidhu said the Chief Minister and the Congress leadership had sympathy with the bereaved family.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 2

Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has rejected allegations of his governments failure to resolve the Bargari case, pointing out that the Justice (retd) Ranjit Singh Commission was investigating various incidents of sacrilege, including the Kotakpura incident in Faridkot that led to the death of two persons.

In a press note, lashing out at some AAP and other parties leaders seeking to take political mileage on the issue, the Chief Minister said not only the commission was meticulously investigating the previous cases of sacrilege, but his government too was effectively cracking down on the culprits involved in all the fresh incidents reported in the state since it took over.

The Ranjit Singh Commission, set up in April 2017, was thoroughly probing all cases of sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib and other religious texts, including the Bargari and Behbal Kalan incidents, said the Chief Minister.

He said it was currently visiting the sites of the incidents in various districts to collect evidence. Three other cases, all relating to 2015, were pending with the CBI, which was investigating the same, he added.

The fact that the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) had sought scrapping of the commission instead of cooperating with it clearly showed that the Akalis feared the findings of the commission, alleged Capt Amarinder Singh.

He said it was unfortunate that some Panthic leaders, supported by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), were trying to undermine the efforts of the commission and government to provide justice to the victims and punish the culprits.

The Chief Minister pointed out that of the 69 cases of sacrilege registered in the state since March 1, 2017, as many as 57 had already been solved, while 12 were under investigation.

Centre responsible for farmers protest: CM

Capt Amarinder Singh on Saturday described the ongoing protest by farmers as a sign of their desperation due to the wrongs being perpetrated on them by the Central government. Talking to mediapersons at the Haryana Raj Bhawan here, the CM said the farming community in the country was in a serious crisis due to the indifferent attitude of the BJP-led Central government.singhking99@yahoo.com

PK Jaiswar

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, June 2

Three armed persons shot Congress councillor Gurdeep Pehalwan (40) dead when he was taking a bath at a local akhara at Gol Bagh area here on Saturday evening.

The incident took place at a time when DGP Suresh Arora was in the city and heavy police force had been deployed in view of the anniversary of Operation Bluestar on June 6.

The police had intelligence inputs about an impending attack on Pehalwan and had alerted him, it is learnt. The shooters, three in number, had covered their faces. Pehalwan was taking a bath when he was shot.

Police Commissioner SS Srivastava said they were looking for CCTV footage near the akhara to get clues about the suspects.

He said though it was premature to say anything about the perpetrators of the crime, Pehalwan had an enmity with gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, who is in jail. Jaggu had threatened to kill him.

Srivastava said Pehalwan sustained four bullet injuries, which led to his death. According to sources, the police suspect the role of Karan Masti, an associate of Jaggu, in the murder.editorial@tribune.com

Ravi Dhaliwal

Tribune News Service

Pathankot, June 2

The defence counsel in the Kathua gang rape and murder case claimed that Pathankot district attorney JK Chopra had no locus standi to contest the case on behalf of the J&K Government.

This contention, however, was challenged by special public prosecutor Santokh Singh Basra who claimed that Chopra was within his legal rights to assist him.

The J&K Government has already written a letter to its Punjab counterpart to let Chopra assist me. A formal notification has been issued by the Punjab Government, appointing him as my assistant. The defence counsels plea is baseless, said Basra.

The case is being heard in the court of District and Sessions Judge Dr Tejwinder Singh, following the directions of the Supreme Court.

Seven of the eight accused in the crime are facing trial here but confusion remains over where the trial of the eighth accused, who is a juvenile, should take place. Sources claim that the J&K Police crime branch has contested the juveniles age in the Jammu and Kashmir High Court. It has contended that the evidence pertaining to the juvenile and the others is the same and hence his trial should be held at Pathankot itself.

The court has already told the prosecution to submit translated copies of the charge sheet, statements and case diaries of the case from Urdu to English to everybody, including defence lawyers, by June 4.

The same day the judge will also decide Basras application seeking shifting of the accused to the Pathankot sub-jail.

The accused are being brought in a Jammu and Kashmir Police bus to the city from the Kathua jail daily.

The judge has ordered that proceedings in the case will begin at 1.30 pm every day.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune Reporters

Chandigarh, June 3

With protesting farmers continuing to disrupt milk and vegetables supplies to the cities, at certain areas reportedly using force, Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh accused the Centre of being indifferent to their demands.

The Chief Minister was reacting to Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh calling the farmers protests a mere publicity stunt. In a statement, Capt Amarinder said while the farmers were resorting to extreme steps out of sheer desperation and the masses were reeling under spiralling prices, Radha Mohan clearly has no qualms about showing lack of sensitivity to their problems. Meanwhile, there were reports of violence in Fazilka where Maninder Rai, inspector of a cooperative society, was allegedly thrashed. He was admitted to the local civil hospital. Rai said he and his brother were on their way to Abohar when they were attacked by a mob and robbed of Rs 5,000 and a gold chain. On Sunday, tension prevailed at Chaurianwali village on the outskirts of Fazilka when requests by activists of the BKU (Ekta Sidhupura) not to supply milk to nearby towns were turned down by a minority community.

In Muktsar, vegetable growers bringing their produce to the town were allegedly detained for two hours by some farmers.

The protesters released us after two hours. They took us out of the town and threw our vegetables into a water channel. We are poor and have a small piece of land on contract. We cant meet our daily expenses without selling vegetables, said one of them.Some vegetable growers reported the matter to the city police station but to no avail. Expressing helplessness, SHO Tejinder Pal Singh, said there was little that the police could do. But if anyone violates the law, we will take action.

The farmers shut down the Verka milk plant and its booths in Patiala city. They closed the main gates of the milk plant on the Sirhind road. Earlier in the morning, Verka officials had locked the gates on the request of the protesting farmers to stop private milk supply vehicles from entering the plant. However, the plant restarted the sale in the afternoon.

Irked, the farmers protested outside the plant for three hours. Verka officials claimed they had sufficient milk supply for now but the situation could worsen if the farmers' protest continued.

A report from Nabha said Amloh MLA Randeep Singh on Sunday said that Union Government must address the problems being faced by the farmers across the country by fulfilling its poll promises. Nabha said the Centre should formulate policies to ensure better remuneration to farmers especially in Punjab. The Centre had ignored Punjabs contribution to foodgrain production, he said, adding that it must guarantee minimum income to small and marginal farmers. He said the implementation of Swaminathan Commission report would solve the problem to a large extent

Protesters put up nakas in Sangrur disteditorial@tribune.com

Muktsar: On the second day of pan-India strike by farmers, the supply of milk and vegetables remained affected. Private dairy owners hiked the rates, with vegetable sellers following suit. The protesters are not allowing the movement of vehicles carrying vegetables. Residents said though vegetables were available in the market, vendors told them that the supply would be curtailed from Sunday. They have increased the prices by 30-40 per cent. TNS

Chandigarh: A consortium of the Indian Farmers Association on Saturday said it had got an overwhelming response during the first two days of its 10-day strike. In a press release, national president of the consortium Satnam Singh Behru said when farmers were not allowed to protest in Chandigarh or Delhi, they had no option but to express their resentment this way. He said the Central Government should implement the Swaminathan Commissions report. TNSPM Oli to address special session of Province 3 Assembly

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will be addressing the special session of the State Assembly of Province 3 coming Tuesday.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 2

Rejecting the Punjab Governments submissions that Leader of the Opposition in the Vidhan Sabha Sukhpal Singh Khaira was involved in drug case and was likely to abscond, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Saturday set aside a Fazilka courts order against the release of his passport and permission to travel abroad.

Describing as unfounded the state counsels contention that the petitioner was involved in an offence under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and was likely to abscond, Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal asserted that the petitioner was neither named as an accused in the FIR, nor challaned by the police. He was summoned as an additional accused only at the conclusion of trial; and the Supreme Court had already stayed the proceedings before the trial court.

Justice Grewal added that the petitioner was the Leader of the Opposition and intended to visit the USA and Canada having significant presence of Punjabi diaspora.

I do not find any impediment in the release of his passport to enable him to travel abroad, Justice Grewal added. Ordering the release of his passport, Justice Grewal added that Khaira would redeposit it with the trial court after his return by July 10. In his detailed order, Justice Grewal added that every citizen had a fundamental right, guaranteed and protected under Article 21 of the Constitution, to possess a passport and travel abroad.editorial@tribune.com

Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 3

Taking cognisance of the 15-year delay by Punjab in constituting a multi-member Appropriate Authority for the implementation of Act against sex determination, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has placed its top officers in the dock.

It has asked the state to place on record the names of the highest officers responsible for the delay from September 2003 till May this year.

The direction by the Bench of Justice AB Chaudhari and Justice BS Walia came on a petition filed by

Dr Zoni Jain and another petitioner against the state and other respondents.

They had challenged the prosecution filed against them before a Judicial Magistrate in Ludhiana under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994.

The Bench observed that the PNDT Act was brought into force from September 1994, but one of the key provisions was amended with effect from February 14, 2003. It said, among the other things, the state government would appoint one or more appropriate authorities for the whole, or part of the state, for the purposes of this Act having regard to the intensity of the problem of pre-natal sex determination leading to female foeticide.

The Bench added a duty, as such, was cast on the state to constitute a multi-member Appropriate Authority within three months of the implementation of the Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Regulation and Prevention of Misuse) Amendment Act, 2002. The Bench added that the mandate was crystal clear. As a matter of fact, there could be no scope to interpret that there could be only one member Appropriate Authority namely Civil Surgeon, the Bench added.

Referring to the case of Help Welfare Group Society versus State of Haryana and others, the Bench ruled that the High Court in the matter held that the Appropriate Authority would be multi-member, and not single-member. The Bench added that the judgment was delivered on September 18, 2013. As such, the state was bound to create a multi-member authority within three months from February 14, 2003.editorial@tribune.com

Jupinderjit Singh

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 3

State police personnel had heaved a sigh of relief when Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh, after assuming power, had announced a weekly off and 8-hour duty for every cop as part of police reforms.

More than a year later, the reform failed to see light of the day. A head constable, pleading anonymity, says he had thought that he would get some time to spend with his with family which would in turn help manage his stress level, but the hope is fading now.

Nearly 80,000-strong Punjab Police force is coping with harsh working conditions. There is no immediate relief for them.

An official spokesperson says providing a weekly off and an eight-hour shift duty is almost impossible for the force. We will need at least double the present manpower to think of such perks, he said.

Earlier this year, the Ludhiana Commissionerate of Police had announced weekly off for its personnel, but it was never implemented. A number of police personnel confirmed that they have not got a single weekly off. The government has not recruited more than 10,000 personnel in the last decade. Officials say the cash-starved government cannot afford heavy recruitments. Nearly 7,000 constables, ASIs and SIs recruited in 2016, are being given just basic pay of about Rs 10,000 only, an official says.

He is not off the mark. A constable from Gurdaspur resigned recently, citing poor work conditions and low salary. The official says stress levels are alarming and sadly, there is no focused research and survey on the matter.

The Tribune recently carried a story on alleged accidental deaths involving police personnel. Officials say many suicides are passed off as accidents so that the victim family can get the persons financial dues and the department escapes embarrassment. But such matters cant be brushed aside, says the official.

An ASI says the mental and physical stress of the almost round-the-clock job takes a heavy toll on cops health. No wonder most of us take to drinking, he tries to justify.editorial@tribune.com

Ashima Sehajpal Batish

How do sociological and political realities of the world fit into the frame of an artwork? Especially, when the artists primary subject is starkly apolitical and the social narrative has, but, only a subtle undercurrent. But realities seep in. They do when the artist is receptive. When knowingly and unknowingly she absorbs all thats around, on the surface and beneath it.

In photographer Nandita Ramans case, truth overtly becomes a part of her series, Body is a Situation. In context of her body, she highlights how its language changes in tandem with the country she is in. It is different in Mexico, like it was in New York or India. The photographs respond to how socio-cultural-political aspects of a place came into conversation with my body, says Nandita. Memories of childhood in Varanasi, before moving to New York, came in handy. These were then juxtaposed with a visit to the hometown, this time as a visitor.

How do I experience my body as I traverse the city full of female deities, but where women are conspicuously absent from public spaces? The thought became a constant companion to her first New York City solo exhibition. She adds: Even though earth is considered female, when land is bought, Vastupurusha (Vastu refers to the physical site and purusha or person refers to the Universal Man) is ordained its symbolic custodian.

The need to reclaim our bodies gains urgency when we take into account many existing ironies. She cant wrap her head around why the physiological process of menstruation is demonised when that is the most profound sign of procreation. To untangle the mesh, Nandita looks at the most available body, her own. Im very aware of my body walking through the lanes, not as much of its strength as its vulnerability, a tiresome companion. Placing feet firmly on the ground, I see I am. It situates me back into the geography.

The artwork, she says, wasnt a product of anger. It was a consequence of acute observation. She sensed that how a womans body behaves isnt a result of how she wants it to, but how it has been conditioned to.

Her other series, Cinema Play House, exhibited at the George Eastman Museum, New York, received rave reviews. The work is visual documentation of the silver screens before promoters and providers of multiplexes flagged their march in the cities. Their appalling condition had an impact on her, especially because her mothers family owned a single-screen theatre in those times. Each photograph tells the story of the disruptive present. One with seating for audience has a ripped chair, pointing to far more than is visible to the eye. Another photograph that makes nostalgia consume you is one with a cracked ticket window.

These pictures can make orderliness of multiplexes look mechanical. These lend beauty to the chaos of the old times, when there werent any prototypes of brick and mortar and glitzy glass structures, when chandeliers awed audience, and carpets welcomed them. The series is in shades of grey. Any colour would have made it seductive. I was more interested in texture and space.

She didnt want the series to look like pictures from a glossy magazine  with upholstery in red and walls in aqua green. While most of the times, there is space for only one entity, either vanity or aesthetics, old or new  where the new is considered an automatic replacement  she hopes we find the middle ground somewhere. I wonder why we cant promote the repair culture. Why we cant have the option where the old stays and new is added to it. This, she suggests, is possible only when we dont consider a setting as a commodity, but as a source of employment for people with families.

In her own way, she strives to stay true to the values that capitalism long back stomped on. Her tacit disapproval of everything around being corporate driven is expressed through her choice of employer. She teaches arts at Purchase College, a state-funded institution in New York. The students are from diverse economic backgrounds and often, first generation college-goers of immigrant parents. It takes courage to opt for arts as a subject as it doesnt promise high-flying jobs or monetary returns of technical and vocational fields. Backing students is her way of contributing towards society.vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Sandeep Dikshit

A S Dulat and Asad Durrani are yesterdays men. The former retired 15 years back while Durrani hung up his boots a quarter century back. But since spooking, as they themselves heartily agree, will never end, this first-hand account from retired spymasters and their peep into the present and future is as engrossing and informative as that of the present day pliers of the trade.

The authors make much of the books format; it is supposed to be the first-of-its-kind book where a sutradhar, in this case journalist Aditya Sinha, guides, provides continuity and sets the topics for free-wheeling, and surprisingly candid and revelatory conversations that take place between the former chiefs of India and Pakistans premier spy agencies. Both are frank enough to confess, as in Jadhavs case, that their views are based on speculation. They are modest; perhaps the intention is to avoid summons from their respective headquarters, which Durrani has duly received. But this is the beauty of the book as the two veterans of the worlds second oldest profession try to second guess what their contemporaries in the RAW and the ISI are up to. And who knows they might actually be on the ball?

What raises the books readability index over other sub-continental efforts in the strategic security and military spheres is the gumption and boldness of the two spymasters to second guess and confess where either country went wrong in the past. In case of Jadhav and Baluchistan, here are a few teasers from Durrani: Pakistans handling of Baluchistan was faulty; its silly to get into a flap over Indian consulates and embassies around Pakistan because espionage is not done from here; his respect for the RAW will go down if it is not meddling in Baluchistan because the situation is tailor-made, and the US would like greater Baluchistan (contiguous parts of Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan) to remain forever troubled. Dulat is equally forthcoming: it was absolutely incorrect for the media to demolish India agreeing to mention Baluchistan in a joint statement with Pakistan at Sharm el Sheikh; a mountain was made out of molehill.

This marked absence to beat around the bush in responding to Aditya Sinha is a secular running thread; even when it comes to frankly examining their organisations and alma mater. Asked to compare the ISI and the RAW  Durrani offers this gem: There is no number one, two or three. You do a job well, keep a low profile, no one takes credit, no one blamed, no claims. Like you guys did your Mukti Bahini quietly. There are also nuggets of operational information about the years gone by: In 1965, the Pakistanis got good information about the other side but six years later the ISI failed to anticipate the attack in East Pakistan.

No topic is taboo. The Doval doctrine, for instance, is brutally run down by Dulat as merely toeing Modis line, or the unsentimental, fact-based running down of the US for its abiding interest in mayhem in the region.

Naturally, there is repetition, of tales we have heard before: the Vajpayee times and his attempts to restore normalcy with Pakistan. But old topics, such as Kashmir, have been revisited with a candour that gives freshness, as also an opportunity to understand Pakistans compulsions.

Regarding the all-important question on why Pakistan doesnt stop engaging with militants, Durrani has this to say: If the State does not engage with the Haqqanis or the Kashmiri militants, others would. In other words, if the cause is there, agent provocateurs are bound to be lurking around the corner. Yet, he also confesses to the lure of maintaining leverage but manages to bring up a justification: leverage by means like funding Salahuddins son is a way we keep control and prevent catastrophes. If only the State was as benign!

And so the book unfolds, crisp, attention-retaining brief chapters covering every topic under the Indo-Pakistani sun: Kargil, Lahore, Uri, the Soviets, Bin Laden, Burhan Wani with a marked absence of chest thumping and points scoring. It is almost like what a TV discussion used to be like in the good old days. The added advantage is that in a book, the words are the message minus the distractions of tone, tenor and body language of the TV. For every Indian or a Pakistani, this book ought to disprove a few notions, add to the vocabulary  false flag attacks is especially recommended.vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Shelley Walia

A new era of violent passion overwhelms the contemporary world. The Holocaust, the mountains of literature on Nazism, are subjected to obliviousness impelling the return of economic and political fascism. It is thriving not only in autocratic nations but in democracies blemished by rabid racist dogmas akin to intolerance and xenophobia. Madeleine Albright, with her experience as US ambassador to the UN and Secretary of State, reminds humanity to not overlook its lessons in history but to collectively focus on a new peaceful world of coexistence and egalitarianism.

Her book, indeed, becomes decisive to the examination of the fascist turn in human history that we are witness to. Telling truth about history and ensuring a radical transformation in pedagogical practice will guarantee conscientious generations to celebrate and affirm the self in the face of the nightmare of coldblooded economics and pervasive sectarianism.

Time is apt to apprehend a civilisational crisis of ignorance and hatred, economic inconsistency and the stifling of basic human rights. The agent of truth, at such a juncture, can only be the university and the media that can empower the public to defy neoliberalism with its innate schemes of fabrication and wilful insensitivity to the disadvantaged millions. Albrights book amplifies this struggle of coming to terms with a fascist world through an unremitting confidence in the doggedness of democratic values. Alternative societal measures must evolve to combat a fascist world.

Returning to Nazism, historian Friedrich Meinecke, in his book, The German Catastrophe, underscores the Nazi fixation with economic advancement as the impelling cause behind the rise the Third Reich which smothered the all organisations of art and culture. As advocated by Meinecke, the antidote to an era of fascism could be the creation of Goethe communities devoted to the celebration of the great poet and other literary figures, accompanied by the music of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Brahms. The bloody, proto-totalitarian excesses of the Third Reich could only be countered by a widespread cultural revolution.

Albrights book is scholarly, well-meaning and inspirational in its objective to combat anti-liberal political tendencies of fascism and threats of populism. Unassuming, resolute and commanding in its rendition of a human catastrophe, the book draws attention to Donald Trump, the elephant on the rampage in the room, who has systematically degraded political discourse in the United States, shown an astonishing disregard for facts, libelled his predecessor, threatened to lock up political rivals, bullied members of his own administration, referred to mainstream journalists as the enemy of the American people, spread falsehoods about the integrity of the U.S. electoral process, touted mindlessly nationalistic economic and trade policies and nurtured a paranoid bigotry toward the followers of one of the worlds most foremost religions. The contemporary world is indeed a spectator to a widespread demolition of democratic institutions.

Here lies the equation of tyranny with the scheme of propagating irrationality and ultra-nationalism, hankering for power and deep-seated animosity. The idea is geared to dousing the spark of literary and artistic creativity, the essential cultural agencies of a civil society. As Albright defines, A fascist is someone who claims to speak for a whole nation or group, is utterly unconcerned with the rights of others and is willing to use violence and whatever other means are necessary to achieve the goals he or she might have.

Albright is a true believer in the institutions of democracy, underpinned by the love of truth, beauty, friendship, justice and compassion, values that enable humanity to eradicate the sweeping fascist thinking. She is qualified to speak and write on the subject with her experience and pain of a victim of the German invasion of Czechoslovakia on March 15, 1939, when Hitlers war machine pushed Europe to the threshold of a second world war. She escaped with her parents to London only to return after the capitulation of the Nazis. But the stay in Czechoslovakia was short-lived with the country falling to the communists. The family escaped as exiles to the US where as a young girl, Albright began to adapt to a life of freedom, to a culture of comic books, bubble gumand a high school club that actively engaged in discussions on international affairs, Gandhi and Tito.

Specialising in the Eastern European Studies, she wrote and thought deeply on totalitarian regimes and the Orwellian nightmare, of whole countries living behind barbed wires. And finally, with the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia and the fall of the Berlin Wall in June 1989, she optimistically began to sense that democracy had aced its severest test especially with the liberation of Ukraine, Caucasus, the Baltics and Central Asia. Nelson Mandela, too, became the embodiment of liberation, engendering hopes of regional renaissance.

But this was to be short-lived; the ominous note that Albright strikes in the return of fascism counters the buoyancy she had experienced listening to the writer Vaclav Havel, former President of Czechoslovakia. He spoke about a future when Europe would inch towards unification when the powerful would no longer suppress the weak. The uplifting vision has sadly faded. Democracy is once again under threat and people in positions of power undermine public confidence in elections, the courts, and the media. This is a global scenario for which she squarely blames Donald Trump. In Albrights words: If we think of Fascism as a wound from the past that had almost healed, putting Trump in the White House was like ripping off the bandage and picking at the scab.vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Maniki Deep

On a sunny April morning, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr Kanwal Vilku. As the sun shone over us, she recounted her days on the ice sheets of Antarctica. I went on the expedition two decades ago and it is all still fresh in mind, she said, as if longing for a gush of cold wind. At 52 then, she had become the first Asian woman to have set foot on a scientific mission to Antarctica, spending two summers and a winter on the frozen continent. The reason, why even after 20 years, the feat should be raised a toast to.

Antarctica, the loneliest and driest land mass on Earth, is scarcely touched by humans. Known for its breathtaking landscape, it is dotted by a handful of scientific research stations of different countries. Dr Vilku arrived in Antarctica by a German ship from Cape Town, South Africa. She was excited at the prospect of her mission and stay in the unusual environs.

The team she was a part of, landed by a helicopter at Maitri, the Indian mission station near Priyadarshini Lake. She, along with another doctor, was part of the 24-member team. A specialist in transfusion medicine, focusing on the effects of environment on the human body, ECG changes and deterioration of mental condition, Dr Vilkus job was to keep a tab on crews health.

Initially reluctant to have a female member on board, the team gradually realised that what mattered was competence. She exhibited her calm temperament when she treated an injured penguin. I picked up the blood-stained penguin and carried it to my cabin, administered medical aid and bandaged the affected area."

Inspired by the Aurora Australis, dancing lights in green, blue and orange, she picked up a paint brush to make the moments eternal. I studied fine arts for a brief period after completing my MBBS and MD. I never thought that little education would come in handy in Antarctica.

In this while, her health did suffer. She lost almost 22 kg. But I wanted to focus on all that I gained. She carried home a treasure of rich experiences of the adventure and returned to grand receptions, felicitations and honour and was awarded by the President of India.

She was widely covered by the national press and television and figured in the Limca Book of Records as the first Asian woman to have stayed in Antarctica on a long mission.

She returned to her job as Chief Medical Officer of the Central Government Health Scheme in Delhi.

Another adventure she was a part of was serving in the Intelligence Bureau as a medical officer. She was posted to challenging terrains like Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, especially Lahaul and Spiti. She also served as a medical officer in Assam, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya. Wherever I went, I served with compassion and that made even the challenging situations a cakewalk for me.

One such difficult time was when she and her husband witnessed a bus accident near Aizawll. She was travelling to Shillong to appear for the interview of medical officer. It was 4.30 am when a bus ahead of us swerved off the road and fell into a 200 metre gorge in the forest. We somehow managed to inform a nearby primary health centre, which later sent help. In the meanwhile, she started examining patients as there was no time to waste. We referred some to a local dispensary and the serious cases were sent to a hospital in Aizawl.

She missed her interview at Shillong. But the news of the accident had spread by then. When she finally reached Shillong, the officers stationed there informed her that she had been selected as medical officer in Aizawl without an interview.

Her indomitable spirit helped her cruise through tough times with ease and that makes her life a lesson in courage and compassion.editorial@tribune.com

Harinder Sikka

My journey with Calling Sehmat, the book, began at the Kargil battle theatre where I had gone as a freelance journalist with due permission from the then Adjutant-General, Lt-Gen SS Grewal. I had retired from the Indian Navy prematurely as Lt-Commander in June, 1993, and joined the Piramal Group in 1994 as the head of its operations in Delhi where I was working when I decided to cover the war.

What I encountered there filled me with rage  the kind of attack our soldiers faced showed a high level of preparedness by the Pakistani forces. What had our intelligence been doing? How could they miss such vital signs of an imminent attack? This frustration made me lash out in anger in the presence of some soldiers around me. One of them turned around and calmly said, Not everybody is a traitor. My mother wasn't.

This was the first time I heard about Sehmat. Till now, I had decidedly been considering myself a brave man, leaving my family and a corporate job behind to go to Kargil and write about soldiers. But when I learnt her story, it punctured my ego. Here was a woman, a Kashmiri Muslim, whose courage and bravery were matchless. This is what triggered my search for Sehmat. I wanted to bring this unsung warrior's story to the Indian people.

My search took me to all those places, including in Pakistan, where she had lived. Her love for the country and belief in her karma made her undertake all those acts, including killing, which were against her very nature.

When I first went to meet her at Malerkotla, she stepped out and said, I don't want to meet you. She shut the door on my face and went inside. It was 10 am. She was very firm and sure about not talking to me. And I was very sure that I would talk to her. I decided to sit outside her house. Finally, at around 5 in the evening, she relented and said come in.

These simple words were the start of a long and arduous journey. However, it helped change my whole perspective on life, thanks to this wonderful, saintly woman.

She was a miracle in my life. I am not a filmmaker but she asked me to make a film on Guru Nanak. Nanak Shah Fakir won three national awards, and was greatly appreciated at various film festivals, including Cannes. A R Rahman compared its scale to Lawrence of Arabia.

Calling Sehmat was initially printed in 2008 by a small publisher (Konark). A decade later it was picked up by Penguin and subsequently made a successful film. Meeting Sehmat was definitely the biggest blessing of my life.

Sehmat's father, Hidayatullah, a businessman, was a diehard patriot. He had extensive trading links in Pakistan. He was also working for the Indian intelligence agencies obtaining information about the plans of the Pakistani army which was preparing to launch an offensive on India. Before the 1971 war, he was diagnosed with cancer.

Brigadier Sayeed was Hidayatullah's friend and contact in Pakistan. They were also related to each other. When cancer-ridden Hidayatullah realised he had little time, he sought Sayeed son's hand in marriage for Sehmat, to carry out what he might not finish with a war looming over the country. Both Sayeed and his son accepted immediately, as Sehmat was quite beautiful.

In an ultimate sacrifice, barely-trained Sehmat was planted as a spy in Brigadier Sayeed household. She was strictly advised to just listen and observe things. She was given basic training to install and relay SOS messages using Morse code, in case of an emergency.

Soon Sehmat won everybody's confidence and rapidly infiltrated the inner circle of Pakistani defence. It speaks volumes about her initiative, confidence, guts and risk-taking capabilities. She also began teaching at an army school where children and grandchildren of the Pakistani army top brass studied, including Gen Yahya Khan's grandchildren.

Her influence helped Brigadier Sayeed gain top ranks within the crucial Pakistani intelligence network. It was at this juncture that Sehmat found about Pakistan's plans to attack Indian warships. She passed crucial information about positioning of Pakistani submarines at the Bombay and Visakhapatnam harbours. This information matched with the intelligence in possession of the Indian Navy. As a consequence, the Pakistani submarine Ghazi was sunk at the mouth of Visakhapatnam harbour with all hands on board. The other two, Hangor and Mangrol escaped but not before launching a deadly attack on INS Khukri.

Sehmat's story is one of raw courage. Her information saved thousands of lives. India emerged victorious yet again. But both sides paid a heavy price for the Pakistani jingoism and misadventure. In the wake were also left two destroyed families and Sehmat who was brought back from Pakistan in a state of deep depression.

It took many years and the divine healing of a saint that enabled Sehmat to return to a life of normalcy. But it led her to live the life of a recluse, a life she chose after all that she had been through and lost. During my interactions with Sehmat over the years, I found her strong yet compassionate. She had an air of such gentleness around her that it was difficult to imagine her capable of harming a squirrel, let alone cold-bloodedly killing a human being.

Yet, what Sehmat accomplished should be an eye opener to anyone who questions the patriotism of Kashmiri Muslims.

Meghna Gulzar as the director and Alia Bhatt in the protagonists role have done full justice to Sehmats story. As Mahesh Bhatt rightly said in his tweet, We are as good as the stories we tell. Thank you for sharing with us the incredible story of an incredible woman  Sehmat.

I hope this message finds an echo in the hearts of the new generation, especially in Kashmir, the land which gave birth to Sehmat. Amen to more Sehmats and not Burhan Wanis.

 Sikka is the author of Calling Sehmat. Meghna Gulzars film Raazi is based on the book, reviewed on page 6vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Pushpa Girimaji

My neighbours child was dropped on the wrong side of the road by the school bus and before his mother could cross the road and reach him, the child ran across the road and was hit by a speeding two wheeler. Fortunately, the child survived, but missed an academic year because of a long stay in the hospital. I have been telling them to get compensation for the suffering undergone by the child, loss of an academic year, besides the agony suffered by them, as parents. My question is: Who should be held liable  the school or the transporter? And can they go to the consumer court or the motor accident tribunal?

I am not sure from your question whether the school had hired a transporter or whether the school had its own fleet. Whatever the case, the first respondent will be the school, which has the responsibility to ensure that the child is dropped at a safe, designated stop. If the school had hired a transporter, then you can name the transporter too. You can also include the driver in the list; the school or the transporter who hired him will be vicariously liable for his mistake.

To strengthen your case, I would suggest that you look at the School Vahan Policy in the state and any other relevant guidelines issued by the police, the high court or the child rights commission and see whether the school was complying with them or flouting them. That will also strengthen your case.

In the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal (MACT), the parents can seek compensation for the injury caused to the child on account of the motor accident or the motorbike hitting the child. Through the consumer court, on the other hand, the parents can seek compensation from the service provider for the negligent service provided, resulting in an accident and injury to the child. So these are two different issues and the opposite parties too are different. I must mention that only recently, the apex consumer court chastised the consumer court at the state level for reducing the compensation in a similar case, on the ground that the parents can get compensation from the MACT.

Can you please quote this case for our benefit?

This case has its origin in the fatal injuries received by the four-year-old child of the complainants on February 17, 2012. As per the original complaint, for some reason, the school did not send the regular transport that day, but some other bus. And the driver dropped the child not at his doorstep as required, but on GT Road. When the child was on its way home, a tractor trailer hit the child, resulting in fatal injuries. The distraught parents filed a complaint before the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, Ferozepur, which awarded Rs 7 lakh compensation. Punjab State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, before which the school appealed, however, reduced the amount to just Rs 1.5 lakh and said the complainants can get compensation through MACT. Accordingly, the parents filed a complaint before the MACT and was awarded Rs 3,50,000 along with 9 per cent interest. Meanwhile, the parents filed an appeal against the order of the State Commission.

The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission came down heavily on the lower court for reducing the compensation and asking the complainants to approach the MACT. The Commission said the lower consumer court had passed this order disregarding Section 3 of the Consumer Protection Act. The Consumer Protection Act provides an alternate remedy to consumers aggrieved against the seller of goods or provider of services. By filing the complaint, the consumer had availed of this alternate remedy. Therefore, the state commission ought not to have reduced the compensation and forced the complaints to go to MACT, it said.

However, with regard to the revision petition filed by the opposite party, who was not present at the hearing, the apex consumer court remanded the case back to the State Commission. (Pratap Singh and another Vs Doon Valley Cambridge School, Ferozepur district, RP No 333 of 2016, order dated March 6, 2018)Vijay C Roy in Chandigarh

Vijay C Roy in Chandigarh

Latest figures from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) say India has registered far fewer research applications (patents) than others such as the US (long-time leader), China and Japan. Two Chinese technology companies were the top filers of international patent applications in 2017, with Huawei (number one filer) and ZTE (number two) followed by Intel, Mitsubishi and Qualcomm. This rapid rise in Chinese use of the international patent system shows that innovators there are increasingly looking outward, seeking to spread their original ideas into new markets as the Chinese economy continues its rapid transformation, Director General, Francis Gurry.

Education institutes across India have started adopting progressive approach towards innovation and filing patents. They have a long way ahead. An annual 2016-17 report of the office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, Trade Marks & Geographical Indications, Mumbai, shows that two Punjab-based educational institutes are among the top 10 filing applicants for patents. Punjab, despite having high concentrations of micro, small and medium enterprises, doesnt figure among the top 10. With 207 applications, it stood 12th.

Punjab-based Chandigarh Group of Colleges and Chitkara University occupied the seven and eighth position respectively. The former has filed 30 applications for patents while Chitkara University has filed 29 applicants for patents in 2016-17. How many of them would be eligible for getting patents remains to be seen. The fact that students are filing for patents clearly suggests a growing concern for protecting innovations. Take a look at various products filed for patents:

Communication device for the speech impaired: The real-time equipment allows normal communication. It is a wearable headband with dry electrode sensors which convert brains beta waves into graphical waves in real time. The output is broadcast in sound waves using speakers. The inventors are Sonanashu, Trinkush Singh and Dr Sachina Ahuja of Chitkara University.

Detecting multiple diseases in apple and rice crop: It is a handheld device whose patent is filed by Dr Sheifali Gupta. Another patent for farmer interactive remotely controlled rice crop disease detection system is filed as a patent in addition, where the image processing technologies develop a computer-based algorithm for disease classification in rice crops. The inventors are Dr Sheifali Gupta, Satpal Singh, Sagar Junehja, Dr Rupesh Gupta (Chitkara University).

Paperless erasable magnetic Braille slate: The patent is filed by Amitoj Singh, Virender Kadiyan, Vinay Kukreja and Dr Amandeep Singh Oberoi (Chitkara University). The patent won in a prestigious contest involving 12 countries. The inventors were called for a presentation at the UNDP headquarters in New York. The device assists in teaching words and syntax to the visually impaired by using magnetic balls arranged in cells of the magnetic Braille slate. This device can be used for Braille writing, locating and entering the formation using magnetic stylus on the slate.

Measuring thyroid levels in blood: The device can predict thyroid levels which can facilitates proper and on time medication/treatment. The handheld device can be used by individuals or clinicians. The inventors are Gurpreet Kaur Sagoo, Dr Varsha Singh, Dr Nitin Saluja, (Chitkara University).

Women self-defence: It can give cover to the girls in a difficult time by sending out alerts to the police and relatives. The band is also fitted with a knife, which can be activated for the self-defence. The device was developed by Chanpreet & Rachna, Chandigarh Group of Colleges.

Advance flood warning: It is a warning-cum-mitigation device. It detects a flood-like situation and sends signals to a nearby area. It not only detects live conditions but also uses the floor occurrence data to enable the person to read frequencies from water beneath the earth (Chandigarh Group of Colleges). Sanjeet Singh, associate dean research & head CU-TBI, Chandigarh University, says the university offers 18-month incubation period that includes a startup cabin with a 3D printing facility, an advance manufacturing lab, a conference hall and a convention Centre.

We have introduced research and innovation at undergraduate level to promote creative ideas. The filing of applications by us clearly suggests that students are innovative, says chairman, Chandigarh Group of Colleges Satnam Singh Sadhu. Chitkara University has DST and MSME-approved incubator where it nurtures start-ups.Rhino pair to be gifted to China prior PMs visit

The government is planning to gift a pair one-horned rhino to China before Prime Minister KP Sharma Olis five-day State Visit to the Peoples Republic of China, beginning from June 19.Aditi Tandon in New Delhi

Aditi Tandon in New Delhi

Almost exhausted by multiple election losses since 2014, the grand old Congress seems finally recouping. It just surprised the rival BJP in Karnataka by going the extra mile to sew up a working relationship with the JD-S and forming a coalition government, setting its sights on the 2019 general election. For the first time in many years, the Congress exuded a sense of urgency to go out there and get things done.

This, until 2017, would have been unthinkable. The farthest the Congress went was to attain the single-largest party status in Goa, Manipur and Meghalaya only to squander these mandates in the face of BJPs quick maneuvering.

But the era of inertia in Congress is over. Or so it seems from recent changes Congress president Rahul Gandhi has made. Since December 16, 2017 when he assumed Congress presidency from mother Sonia Gandhi, the 47-year-old has been in the revamp mode. He is largely sticking to what he told the party cadre on April 29 while addressing the Jan Aakrosh rally in Delhi: In Congress everyone will be respected whether someone is 80 years old or someone is 19 years old. We have space for everyone here.

The message reflected deep acknowledgment of the fact that some seniors would remain indispensable to the Congress going into 2019 Lok Sabha elections while some would have to be rested to pave the way for fresh faces.

Recent changes

Some of Gandhis shock decisions stem from the above plan. The first involved replacing 72-year-old Janardan Dwivedi with Ashok Gehlot as party general secretary in-charge of organization on March 30 this year. Dwivedi, who had held this key post for decades, having worked with prime ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi and recently with Sonia Gandhi, signed his own exit orders and named his own replacement.

More recently, Gandhi rested former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijay Singh from all AICC posts gradually divesting him of the charge of general secretary in charge of Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Other seniors Gandhi relieved are BK Hariprasad as general secretary Odisha, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh and CP Joshi as general secretary Bengal and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Replacements and new appointments have been interesting with performance emerging as a key factor. Rahul Gandhi places a lot of premium on performance. When he gives you a task, he expects you to deliver or make way for someone else, says Shakti Sinh Gohil, former leader of Opposition in Gujarat who tirelessly crusaded against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah and was recently rewarded with AICC charge of Bihar.

Gandhi has, in fact, promoted all top Congress organization leaders from Gujarat where they helped the party in giving BJP the jitters in PM Modis home state.

Gehlot, posted as general secretary AICC Gujarat on election-eve, was quickly brought back as general secretary organization. Young Lok Sabha MP from Maharashtra Rajeev Satav, sent as AICC secretary for Saurashtra on Gujarat poll-eve, has just been named party in charge for Gujarat. Gohil has been sent as in charge Bihar.

Work in progress

Former minister and Congress leader Manish Tewari sees these changes as a work in progress. Change is the only constant in life. The key to running an organization like the Congress is to see how you will get the right balance between experience and new energy and between different generations of people who constitute this vast and varied organization. The ongoing changes are a work in progress, he says.

Oomen Chandys appointment as Congress general secretary AICC for Andhra Pradesh replacing Digvijay Ssingh has inspired immense confidence among state leaders. Former minister and Andhra leader Kishore Chandra Deo says: Oomen Chandy is the best bet for the party in Andhra Pradesh where we have nothing today. Chandy is a Congress man and will keep partys interests at heart while taking decisions. He wont be swayed by expediency. Equally important is to revamp the state unit before 2019 elections considering we did not even stand second in most assembly segments in the previous state elections.

By installing Chandy in Andhra and senior-most Congress MP in Lok Sabha Kamal Nath as Madhya Pradesh party chief, Rahul Gandhi has sent out the message that he would trust seniors when the situation so demanded. This is something he did in Punjab by announcing Amarinder Singh the state chief and later CM candidate and in Himachal by similarly announcing Virbhadra Singh the chief ministerial face.

Former Mahila Congress chief Shoba Oza reasons: There are some states that require deft handling and others that can be handled by younger leaders. In Madhya Pradesh, for example, you need someone of the stature of Kamal Nath to take on BJPs Shivraj Singh Chouhan, a CM for three terms. Likewise in Andhra where you have nothing left, you need someone like Mr Oomen Chandy to rebuild the party.

In the Congress backroom, veterans Ahmed Patel and Ghulam Nabi Azad still hold sway as part of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhis core team. This team delivered results in Karnataka by acting in time to strike a deal with JD-S by offering it unconditional support and CMs post. A similar quickness of thought could have helped Congress win Goa, Manipur and Meghalaya, but its strategists were found wanting in all these states.

A Haryana Congress leader notes: While youngsters need to be brought in to create a new line of leadership, veterans such as Ahmed Patel, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Ashok Gehlot and Bhupinder Singh Hooda will always have a place in the party for the role that only they can play. The Congress president knows the leaders who can engage Mamata Banerjee or Mulayam Singh Yadav or Mayawati or Karunanidhi. The party chief also knows which faces can win us elections in which state.

That explains why Kamal Nath has been entrusted with Madhya Pradesh. By this logic, Gandhi may eventually name former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda as the state president making him accountable for victory or defeat in the next polls.

There is also expectation that Gandhi may send Ashok Gehlot to election-bound Rajasthan in time to play a decisive role. This even when current Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot is hoping for rich dividends from Gandhi who has of late shown signs of political shrewdness, typical of his mother.

Despite well-known closeness to Jyotiraditya Scindia, Gandhi did not name him Madhya Pradesh party chief. He appointed him as campaign committee chairman in the state, realizing that Kamal Nath alone has the experience needed to take on BJPs Chouhan. Other youngsters who have made it big under Gandhi are mainly the people he worked with in Congress frontal organizations such the Indian Youth Congress and NSUI. Gandhi was once general secretary in charge of these organizations.

One-person-one-state

Rahuls new one person-one state formula is also working well to energize the otherwise demoralized Congress cadre who would keep complaining about general secretaries either not meeting them in Delhi or not visiting their states.

In the past, one general secretary would have charge of three-four states making it impossible for him/her to attend to each. As a result the organization suffered. Rahul Gandhi is appointing one in-charge or one general secretary per state, arming them with a team of young secretaries to cover the area geographically and politically. This makes the outreach effective and outcomes measurable, says former minister RPN Singh whom Gandhi appointed AICC in-charge of Jharkhand.

New appointees now realize that with one state under their charge, performance-monitoring, too, would become easier.

Rajeev Satav turned Gujarats Saurashtra around in a few months and was rewarded. Others would have to similarly deliver, says Shakti Sinh Gohil.

Structural changes

The party organization is being rebuilt at two levels: At one level are partys mentors who will continue to work with Sonia Gandhi to help forge alliances where necessary in states and later in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. At another level are young workers being positioned in organizational roles to be groomed as future leaders like former PM Rajiv Gandhi groomed Ahmed Patel, Kamal Nath, Azad, Gehlot and V Narayanaswamy, who are now helping the party in their own way.

That said, Gandhi is not putting all his eggs in one basket in any state. In every state unit, he is creating a team of leaders.

The idea is to democratize the party and create a sense of collective leadership. The Congress chief has been telling everyone privately to first win elections and then bother about who the CM would be, says a senior Congress leader.

On many occasions, Rahul Gandhi has publicly appealed to Congress leaders to forget factionalism and unite for the party. Addressing the 84th Plenary Session of the AICC in March this year, Rahul said: Please discipline yourself, at least until elections. You can fight later. His anxieties seem natural considering his party is in power only in Punjab, Karnataka, Puducherry and Mizoram (where elections are due later this year). Only time will tell if Gandhis message of unity is registered with the leaders, and if the course he has chosen is good for the party. Until then, the Congress cadre can take heart from the fact that he is finally trying.

THE DIVESTED

Janardan Dwivedi

As general secretary, organization: Dwivedi had been asking to be relieved for some time. He had irked the Congress leadership with strong stands on certain key issues. While the Congress slammed demonetization from day one, Dwivedi called it a socialist measure. He advocated reservations based on peoples economic status inviting rebuttal from then Congress chief Sonia Gandhi herself. He backed the Uniform Civil Code, something the Congress dilly-dallied on. Dwivedi also once said that late PM Rajiv Gandhi had spoken of his daughter Priyanka as his political heir. On BJPs 2014 LS victory, Dwivedi had said: Perhaps people found BJP to be closer to Indian-ness.

Digvijay Singh

As general secretary Andhra, Telangana, Karnataka: Singh failed to get Congress to form a government in Goa where the party emerged the largest. He was accused of losing time allowing the BJP to steal the mandate. Under his watch Congress lost its entire electoral base in Andhra Pradesh post bifurcation.

CP Joshi

As general secretary Bengal: Congress finished a distant fourth in the recent gram panchayat polls in Bengal and continues to cede space to BJP which is emerging as the main opposition to TMC.

Mohan Prakash

As general secretary Madhya Pradesh: Congress could not wrest power from BJP despite anti-incumbency against the BJP in Madhya Pradesh.

BK Hariprasad

As general secretary Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh: Replaced in routine like others who could not deliver electoral victories under their watch.

PROMOTED

Ashok Gehlot

As general secretary organization: Former Rajasthan CM Gehlot delivered as AICC general secretary Gujarat, he took the fight to PMs home state.

Rajeev Satav

As AICC in charge Gujarat: For delivering in Gujarat election 2017 as AICC secretary earlier.

Kamal Nath

As MP Congress chief: Nine-time Lok Sabha MP, Kamal Nath is seen as the only Congress leader who can take on BJPs three-term CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan in the yearend MP polls.

Sushmita Dev

As Mahila Congress chief: Dev is an MP from Assam and a young firebrand woman leader known for sloganeering in Lok Sabha.vermaajay1968@gmail.com

ALTHOUGH the latest news from the Western Front is somewhat reassuring, in as much as the advance of the enemy is reported to have been checked, there is little doubt that one of the fiercest battles of the whole war is being fought. It is difficult to believe that this battle or any battle that may be fought in the immediate future will be decisive. At the same time there is much force in the comment of a French journal that Germany herself is seeking a decision for long months, for every day she realises more and more that time is against her. The Allies have only to hold their ground sufficiently long for their object to be realised.laxmi@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Dehradun, June 3

Uttarakhand Agriculture Minister Subodh Uniyal has laid importance of sensitizing the younger generation about the importance of conserving biodiversity. The minister was addressing the inaugural session of Children Biodiversity Summit at Navdanya Biodiversity Farm in Dehradun on Saturday. He said it was of paramount importance that the younger generation is well informed about the biodiversity conservation and the challenges involved with it in the modern-day world.

Referring to the efforts of state government towards making Uttarakhand organic, Subodh Uniyal said the state government was working in the direction of making state organic. He said turning state into a total organic state would also help farmers in a big way.

Navdanya Trust founder and environmentalist Dr Vandana Shiva informed the gathering about the efforts undertaken by Navdanya towards conservation of biodiversity. She also apprised that the Navdanya was also working towards conservation of indigenous seeds.

It was also informed at the summit that the 10 best students at the summit would participate in the International Biodiversity Mega Convention to take place at Forest Research Institute in October.sanjiv@tribunemail.com

Tunis: At least 35 migrants were killed when their boat sank off Tunisias southern coast and 67 others were rescued by the coast guard, the Defence Ministry said on Sunday. The rescue operation was ongoing, the ministry said in a statement. The migrants were of Tunisian and other nationalities. Human traffickers increasingly use Tunisia as a launch pad for migrants heading to Europe as Libyas coast guard, aided by armed groups, has tightened controls. Security officials said the boat was packed with about 180 migrants, including 80 from other African countries. Unemployed Tunisians and other Africans often try to depart in makeshift boats from Tunisia to Sicily in Italy. Reuterssanjiv@tribunemail.com

Ljubljana, June 3

Slovenias opposition centre-right anti-immigrant party looked set to win a national election on Sunday, after taking 24.4 percent of the vote, according to exit polls from TV Slovenia.

In a highly fragmented ballot, the Adriatic states 1.7 million-strong electorate was choosing between 25 parties of which 9 will make it to the parliament according to exit polls.

The state election commission also put Slovenia Democratic Party (SDS) ahead in the election with 26.3 per cent of the votes after 25 per cent of votes were counted.

The centre-left party The List of Marjan Sarec (LMS) was in second place behind SDS with 12.2 percent of the vote, according to commission. Preliminary results will be issued by the State Election Commission by 2100 GMT on Sunday.

SDSs hardline stance on immigration has left it short of potential coalition partners, and its leader acknowledged any post-election negotiations would be difficult.

We will probably have to wait for some time (after the election)... before serious talks on a new government will be possible, SDSs leader Janez Jansa  a two-time prime minister  told reporters after voting in Sentilj pri Velenju.

LMSs leader Marjan Sarec told reporters after the partial results were released that he expected to get an opportunity to form a government as most parties had said before the vote they were likely to join an SDS-led government.

But the fragmented nature of the vote means SDS will need to link up with at least two other parties to gain a majority in the 90-seat parliament. The election commission said turnout by 1600 GMT was 34.3 per cent compared to 35.6 per cent in the last election four years ago, when 51.7 per cent of the electorate ended up voting.

The ballot was called in March after centre-left Prime Minister Miro Cerar resigned, weeks before his term was due to end. Cerars Party of The Modern Centre is currently in third place according to the exit poll.  Reuterssanjiv@tribunemail.com

BEIJING, June 3

China warned the United States on Sunday that any agreements reached on trade and business between the two countries will be void if Washington implements tariffs and other trade measures, as the two ended their latest round of talks in Beijing.

A statement, carried by the Xinhua, made no mention of any specific new agreements after US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross met Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

It referred instead to a consensus they reached last month in Washington, when China agreed to increase significantly its purchases of US goods and services.

To implement the consensus reached in Washington, the two sides have had good communication in various areas, and have made positive progress, the state news agency said, adding details would be subject to final confirmation by both parties.

The US and China have threatened tit-for-tat tariffs on goods worth up to $150 billion each. Xinhua said Chinas attitude had been consistent and that it was willing to increase imports from all countries, including the US.  Reuterssanjiv@tribunemail.com

Singapore, June 3

US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis said on Sunday North Korea will receive relief only after it takes clear and irreversible steps to end its nuclear programme, adding it would be a bumpy road to a summit between US and North Korean leaders.

The comments sought to address concern the US may be rushing to strike a breakthrough in the unprecedented summit between the two leaders after US President Donald Trump put the meeting back on track for June 12 in Singapore.

We can anticipate, at best, a bumpy road to the (negotiations), Mattis said at the start of a meeting with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts on the sidelines of Shangri-la dialogue in Singapore.

Trump said on Friday he would hold the meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in a dramatic turn of course in the high stakes diplomacy aimed at ending Pyongyangs nuclear weapons programme.

Eight days after cancelling the summit citing Pyongyangs hostility, Trump announced the decision to go ahead with the meeting after hosting Kims envoy in the White House, saying he expected very positive result with North Korea.

North Koreas nuclear weapons programme has been a source of major security tensions that persisted despite a series of UN and US sanctions and it has also demonstrated advances in ballistic missile technology that experts believe now threatens the US mainland.

Japanese Defence Minister Itsunori Onodera said that while the solution to the North Korean nuclear crisis must be diplomatic, the defence cooperation among the United States and its Asian allies was key to bringing it about.

Japan, Korea and the US continue to agree that pressure is needed to be applied on North Korea, Onodera told reporters after his meeting with Mattis and South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo on the sidelines of the Shangri-la Dialogue.

Despite a long-standing security alliance between the United States and Japan, some people in Japan worry that the United States may cut a deal to protect its cities from nuclear attack by the North, while leaving Japan vulnerable.

North Korea has conducted six nuclear tests starting in 2006 but has declared it would no longer need such tests. In May, it invited foreign journalists to witness what it said was the demolition of its nuclear test site.  Reutersvinaymishra188@gmail.com

Madrid, June 2

Nationalists regained control of Catalonias government on Saturday and immediately pledged to seek independence for the wealthy region, posing a swift challenge to new Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez who took office on the same day.

The new Catalan cabinet was sworn in after months of tensions with the Central Government, ending Madrids seven-month direct rule of the region, imposed by Sanchezs predecessor after separatists declared independence.

Sanchez, a Socialist who has said he wants talks on Catalonia but opposes any independence referendum, was sworn in about an hour earlier on Saturday, a day after parliament ousted conservative Mariano Rajoy over a corruption scandal.

The unexpected coincidence of the Central and regional governments taking power minutes apart could open a new chapter after dramatic months that have seen Catalan politicians jailed or fleeing abroad.

This government is committed to moving towards an independent state in the form of a republic, Catalonias new leader Quim Torra said after the cabinets swearing in ceremony in which separatists shouted Llibertat! Llibertat! (Freedom!).

Lets talk, lets deal with this question, lets take risks, you and us. We need to sit around the same table and negotiate, government to government, he said.

Sanchez has just 84 seats in the 350-member Assembly, which could make any bold move on Catalonia much difficult.  Reuters

Posing a challenge for Sanchezgspannu7@gmail.com

Kathmandu, June 3

A man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison in Nepal on charges of slaughtering cows, the Hindu majority nations national animal.

Information Officer Tek Raj Gaire of District Court Arghakhanchi said a single Bench of judge Ram Chandra Poudel issued the verdict against Yam Bahadur Khatri of Bhotepokhara for killing three cows.

Khatris neighbour Baldev Bhat had lodged the complaint against him.

In Nepal, slaughtering of a cow has been prohibited by law.

Nepal became a secular state in 2008. Cow, which is sacred to the Hindus, was declared the national animal of Nepal in 2015 in the countrys secular Constitution.  PTIgspannu7@gmail.com

Berlin, June 3

Berlin police said there was no sign that a rampaging man with a knife whom they shot and wounded on Sunday at the citys main cathedral had had a terrorist motive.

Based on what we know so far, we have no information that the suspect in any way had a terrorist or Islamist motive, a police spokesman said.

The spokesman later added that the man, whose threatening behaviour led police to shoot him in the leg, was a 53-year-old Austrian who had been wielding a knife and was verbally aggressive.  AFPRJP-N to join central govt after leaders release

After induction of two Sanghiya Samajbadi Forum-Nepal ministers into the federal government on Friday, leaders of the Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal have said they are ready to join the Cabinet too.vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Lahore, June 2

Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeeds Jammat-ud-Dawah (JuD) will contest the July 25 general election on the platform of Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek (AAT) as the groups Milli Muslim League (MML) is yet to be registered as a political party, a senior member of the outfit said.

JuD, a front for the Lashkar-e- Taiba militant group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack, launched its political front MML, but it has not been yet registered by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

It was a kind of dormant party registered by a citizen Ehsan. There are several such parties registered with the ECP and such an arrangement is made ahead of the general elections if any mainstream party or organisation faces any issue or complication, a member of the JuD told PTI.

MML president Saifullah Khalid will make a formal announcement regarding this shortly, he added. The AATs election symbol is chair. Now the MML candidates will contest on the chair symbol across the country, the member said.

The JuD was declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The JuD chief also carries a US$ 10 million American bounty on his head.  PTIpardeepdhull@gmail.com

Washington, June 3

As preparations are under way for the historic US-North Korea summit, American officials are trying to solve the logistical issue of who will pay for North Korean leader Kim Jong-uns housing at an island resort off the coast of Singapore, a report said.

With its economy weakened from tough sanctions, North Korea is requiring that a foreign country foot the bill at its preferred lodging: the Fullerton, a neoclassical hotel near the mouth of the Singapore River, where just one presidential suite costs more than $6,000 per night, The Washington Post reported.

The diplomatically fraught billing issue is just one of numerous logistical concerns being hammered out between two teams led by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Joe Hagin and Kims de facto chief of staff, Kim Chang-son, as they strive toward the June 12 meeting.

After weeks of uncertainty, President Donald Trump called off the summit last week, blaming open hostility from North Korea.

But a flurry of diplomacy across two continents got the meeting back on track, and Trump announced on Friday that he would attend as initially planned.

When it comes to paying for lodging at North Koreas preferred five-star luxury hotel, the US is open to covering the costs, informed sources told The Post.

But its mindful that Pyongyang may view a US payment as insulting. As a result, US planners are considering asking Singapore, the host country, to pay for the North Korean delegations bill.

State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert on Saturday did not rule out the possibility that the US would arrange for Singapores government to pay for the North Korean delegations accommodations, but said Washington is not paying the costs of accommodations in Singapore for the North Korean delegation.

During the PyeongChang Olympics earlier this year, South Korea set aside $2.6 million to cover travel accommodations for a North Korean cheering squad, an art troupe and other members of the visiting delegation.

At the same Games, the International Olympic Committee paid for 22 North Korean athletes to travel to the event.

In 2014, when former US Director of National Intelligence James R. Clapper Jr. visited North Korea to retrieve two prisoners, his North Korean hosts served him an elaborate 12-course Korean meal. The veteran intelligence official insisted that he pay for it.

Figuring out how to pay Pyongyangs hotel tab will not be the only unusual planning obstacle that comes with hosting an event with the isolated regime, the sources told The Washington Post.

The countrys outdated and underused Soviet-era aircraft may require a landing in China because of concerns it wont make the 3,000-mile trip.

Alternatively, the North Koreans might travel in a plane provided by another country.  IANSuttara@tribuneindia.com

LJUBLJANA, June 3

The head of the anti-immigrant party widely tipped to win national elections in Slovenia on Sunday said forming a government would not be easy, as he cast his ballot in a town in the country's east.

In a hugely fragmented vote, the Adriatic country's 1.7 million-strong electorate is choosing between 25 parties, with final opinion polls putting the centre-right Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) first on up to 24.5 percent.

But most other parties have said they are reluctant to join a coalition with the SDS, whose leader Janez Jansa acknowledged any post-election negotiations would be difficult.

"We will probably have to wait for some time (after the election)... before serious talks on a new government will be possible," Jansaa two-time prime ministertold reporters after voting in Sentilj pri Velenju.

Voting ends at 1700 GMT when state broadcaster TV Slovenia will publish exit polls, and the election commission is due to issue a preliminary result by 2100 GMT.

The election was called in March after centre-left Prime Minister Miro Cerar resigned, weeks before the scheduled end of his term of office, after the Supreme Court ordered a new referendum on a railway investment project championed by his government.

According to a Mediana poll published by daily newspaper Delo on Friday, Cerar's Party of The Modern Centre is running third with around 6.8 percent, behind the centre-left List of Marjan Sarec, the mayor of the city of Kamnik, on 8.2 percent.

The divided nature of the vote means the SDS would need to ally with at least two other parties to gain a majority in the 90-seat parliament. But so far most other parties have demurred at joining forces with the SDS, which has the open support of Hungary's nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

"We believe that today a first step will be made towards Slovenia becoming a country that will put the well-being and security of Slovenians first," Jansa said.

'Everything else is unclear'

Analysts said the SDS would win, but predicting what the future government might look like was hard and another election could not be ruled out.

"It seems clear that the SDS will win but everything else about this election is unclear because the question is whether the SDS will be able to form a government coalition," said Meta Roglic, a political analyst with daily Dnevnik.

Otilia Dhand of political risk advisory firm Teneo Intelligence described the election as an open race.

"The real winner will be the party that can form a coalition with a majority of seats in a likely highly fragmented parliament," she said.

Slovenia, which narrowly avoided an international bailout for its banks in 2013, returned to growth in 2014. The outgoing government expects the economy to expand by 5.1 percent this year versus 5 percent in 2017, boosted by exports, investments and household spending.

High on the agenda for the next government will be the privatisation of the country's largest bank, Nova Ljubljanska Banka, which the previous administration agreed to sell in exchange for European Commission approval of state aid for it in 2013.

The next cabinet will also be expected to reform an inefficient state health sector and Slovenia's pension system.

"I want changes for the better, particularly in the health sector and judiciary. I was quite disappointed with the current government so I will not vote for them," said Sonja, a 60-year-old retired teacher who voted in Ljubljana.

Some other voters praised the outgoing government. "I expect that things will be at least as good as now or a bit better. I hope we get another centre-left government although I do agree changes are needed particularly in the health sector," said 52-year-old pharmacist Vida. ReutersSirsiya Dry Port straining under load

Sirsiya Dry Port in Birgunj saw record numbers for both import and export of goods last month. The ports handling capacity has strained after third-country trade through India via Visakhapatnam started. This shows the urgency to expand the facility, which has been operational for 14 years.Six bottled water processing plants sealed

The Department of Food Technology and Quality Control (DFTQC) has sealed six bottled water processing plants after they were found selling contaminated water.Syria's Assad to become first head of state to visit NKorea

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad plans to make a state visit to North Korea, the North's state news agency says.A series of freak storms in India have left hundreds dead AFP/CHANDAN KHANNA

The latest in a series of freak storms that have left hundreds dead battered Uttar Pradesh state late Friday with winds of 100kph toppling walls, power pylons and thousands of trees.

Sixteen people died in the state, according to TP Gupta, a spokesman for the Uttar Pradesh disaster management department. He said most of the deaths were caused by falling trees and walls.

There was one more death blamed on the storm in New Delhi and another in the northern city of Chandigarh.

India's most populous state has been battered by storms since April that have killed more than 200 people. More than 100 have died elsewhere in the country from the dust and wind storms.

Storms are customary during the summer months but the intensity and death toll has been higher than normal this year.

The Indian Meteorological Department has warned that more storms could hit in coming days as temperatures soar across the country ahead of the annual monsoon season.

The temperature in Rajasthan's Churu district hit 49.7 degree Celsius on Friday, according to private weather forecaster Skymet.

The monsoon arrived in the southern state of Kerala on Tuesday and should bring cooler weather as it moves north, weather experts said.Vietnam eager to develop Lien Chieu deep seaport

Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung recently urged the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) to appraise the capital sources and mobilisation methods of investment capital at Lien Chieu port.

Besides, the DPM assigned the Danang Peoples Committee to complete the pre-feasibility report for the project after the city studied MPI appraisal.

Based on reports of MPI and Danang city, the Ministry of Transport (MoT) was asked to build the investment planning evaluation report to submit the prime minister for approval.

Lien Chieu Seaport is considered one of the two key projects that aim to boost the central city as a main logistics centre in the ASEAN and the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) that links Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The assignment of the DPM shows Vietnams eagerness to develop the Lien Chieu Seaport project, which is considered one of two key projects that aim to boost the central city as a main logistics centre in the ASEAN and the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) that links Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Although the construction of Lien Chieu Seaport in Danang has just been appraised, domestic and foreign investors are already interested in the project.

Notably, Boskalis Inter A.V is the newest foreign investor that expressed interest in joining. Wanter Jacobs, regional business manager at Boskalis, said in a document sent to MoT that the investor wants to join component Ageneral infrastructure.

Boskalis will collaborate with T&T Group to deploy this project, particularly in conducting the feasibility study, design, and build general infrastructure system in component A.

With a massive investment capital and handling capacity, the $1.48-billion Lien Chieu Seaport located in Danang is expected to become Vietnams second international gateway port, following Lach Huyen port in the northern the city of Haiphong.

According to the citys proposal, Lien Chieu Seaport, which would combine five functional areas, including a 50,000DWT (deadweight tonnage) harbour, another harbour which could handle 80,000-100,000DWT container ships with a loading capacity of 5,000-8,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEUs), a liquid cargo harbour handling 10,000DWT ships, and an inland waterway harbour for 1,000-5,000DWT ships, as well as a logistics services area and other infrastructure.State President Tran Dai Quang and his Spouse and Japanese Emperor Akihito and his Empress attend a ceremony marking the 45th founding anniversary of the Viet Nam-Japan diplomatic ties in Tokyo on June 1, 2018. Photo: VNA

Dignitaries at the event included State President Tran Dai Quang and his entourage, Japanese Emperor Akihito and his Spouse and FM Taro Kono.

Since establishment of diplomatic relationship on September 21, 1973, both countries have worked together to build up the relationship of friendship, trust, mutual respect and benefits. The two countries lifted up their bilateral ties to extensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia in 2014.

Speaking at the event, Deputy PM, FM Pham Binh Minh affirmed Japan still remains a top and long-term partner and a really close friend of Viet Nam and their bilateral cooperation is for the benefits of the two people and for peace and prosperity in the region and the world.

He expressed his belief that the bilateral relationship will enter new development stage of more effective and substantial cooperation across all fields thanks to high political trust and consensus from both sides.

Meanwhile, Japanese FM Taro Kono underlined that Viet Nam and Japan are enjoying an ever close relationship and the Viet Nam visit by Japanese Emperor Akihito and the Japan visit by State President Tran Dai Quang are among vivid examples.

Both sides have agreed to foster cooperation and exchanges in a series of areas and join hands to settle issues emerging in the region and the world.Two adults and two students were taken to the hospital after the driver of a pickup truck collided with an East China school bus in China Township last week, police said.

Officials from the Michigan State Police Lapeer Post said the school bus was traveling east on St. Clair Highway at Wadhams Road on its way to Pine River Elementary School at about 8:30 a.m. May 30 when it was hit by a gray Ford F-150 that was traveling south on Wadhams Road.

The bus was carrying about three dozen students.

The bus driver and two students were taken by ambulance to St. John River District Hospital in East China Township.

The 74-year-old driver of the truck was taken to Lake Huron Medical Center in Port Huron.

Students who were not injured in the crash were either picked up by their parents or loaded onto another bus and taken to school, police said.

Michigan State Police are continuing to investigate the incident. The driver of the pickup, whose name has not been released, is expected to be cited, although a specific infraction is not expected to be determined until the investigation is complete.

St. Clair Highway and Wadhams Road were closed to traffic following the incident.

Colleen Kowalewski is a staff writer for The Voice. She can be contacted at 586-273-6197 or ckowalewski@21st-centurymedia.com.A coalition of environmental groups is appealing the Michigan Public Service Commissions approval of a new natural gas power plant slated for East China Township next year.

The Environmental Law and Policy Center, the Union of Concerned Scientists, the Ecology Center, the Solar Energy Industries Association and Vote Solar recently joined together to petition the Michigan Court of Appeals to reverse the MPSCs April decision.

In July 2017, DTE Energy sought approval from the MPSC to build a 1,100-megawatt natural gas-fired power plant that will sit on 40 acres adjacent to the existing Belle River Power Plant near King and Remer roads in East China Township. It will replace the generating capacity of eight coal-fired plants scheduled for retirement in the 2020s, including the remaining units in operation at the nearby St. Clair plant, and is expected to provide power for 850,000 homes beginning in 2022.

In April, the MPSC ruled in favor of the company, clearing the way for the project to move forward.

Construction of the plant is expected to take three years and create about 600 jobs. Documents filed with the MPSC state it will be the most efficient facility in DTEs power generation fleet.

Approval of the plant earned a sigh of relief from local leaders, said St. Clair County Commissioner Bill Gratopp. Officials in East China Township, St. Clair County and the East China School District raised alarms about the potential loss of tax revenue when DTE announced the planned closure of the St. Clair plant.

Now, clean energy advocates are challenging that approval.

The groups contend DTE did not meet the legal standard required to justify the $1 billion investment.

DTE did not provide sufficient analysis for the MPSC to be able to compare its plant to cleaner, reliable and more affordable options that would save customers money, Vote Solar Senior Director of Western States Becky Stanfield said. MPSC responded by decrying the lack of clear analysis but approving the plant anyway while urging DTE to do a better job in its next plan. It should have required DTE to start over.

The filing states more than a dozen groups opposed DTEs initial request. Testimony from experts affiliated with the opposition presented evidence supporting their claim that DTE did not fairly evaluate alternatives to the new plant.

We are at a turning point in the electric industry, and our concern is that DTE is rushing the plant through without considering whether it really is needed, in light of newer, cleaner and less costly alternatives, said Margrethe Kearney, senior attorney at the Environmental Law & Policy Center. It is critical that the MPSC be required to fully and faithfully implement the law to ensure that Michigan customers are not on the hook to pay for last-century technology when a clean, modern grid is more affordable now.

DTE contends the natural gas plant is the most reasonable and prudent means to meet the power deficit created by the pending closure of aging coal-fired generation facilities and claims that no other party proposed a specific alternative that would do so.

DTE conducted extensive modeling, running more than 50 scenarios to determine how to replace our retiring power capacity in a way that best meets the needs of our customers, DTE President and CEO Trevor Lauer said in a statement. That rigorous analysis conclusively showed that a state-of-the-art natural gas plant is the best option.

Colleen Kowalewski is a staff writer for The Voice. She can be contacted at 586-273-6197 or ckowalewski@21st-centurymedia.com.Valley of Jacarandas

Recently, I read an article about the worsening environment and health condition of Kathmanduites due to air pollution. That is true, each passing day the air quality of Kathmandu is deteriorating. The main cause is lack of greenery.Youre not supposed to like the wealthy, entitled, scheming assholes in HBOs Succession. Its a testament to series creator Jesse Armstrong (Peep Show, The Thick of It), the other writers and directors, and the droll family dramas excellent ensemble cast that you do like them.

Well, maybe like is not the right word. Fascinated by might be the better way to describe ones feelings toward media mogul Logan Roy (a ruthless Brian Cox) and his various grown children, all of whom engage in Machiavellian efforts to gain or maintain powerful roles in Waystar Royko, their fathers media empire. The first episode  which debuts Sunday and was directed by executive producer Adam McKay, returning to a milieu not entirely dissimilar from his film The Big Short  spends most of its time establishing the relationships within the Roy family before a crisis occurs. It might not fully draw you in, but episode two  which takes place almost entirely in a hospital  and the ones that follow in this ten-episode season increasingly will.

The first episode, Celebration, finds Logans most corporate-focused son and heir apparent, Kendall (Jeremy Strong), in panic mode. Hes having trouble nailing down a deal with a digital media company and hes on the verge of losing his position in Waystar Royko.

Meanwhile, Logan, who is celebrating a birthday, is having second thoughts about his plans to retire as CEO. As the family gathers to fete their father, the three other Roy children  Roman (Kieran Culkin), Shiv (Sarah Snook), and Connor (Alan Ruck)  are prepared to finally make corporate nepotism work in their favor. But then, a health emergency throws everyones future plans into chaos and shakes the foundations at Waystar Royko on multiple fronts.

Its immediately obvious that Logan  a stubborn, cantankerous man who sometimes ends meetings by grumbling, Fuck off  is loosely based on Rupert Murdoch. While his business holdings are as diverse as theme parks and telecommunications ventures, his main focus is on his media holdings, including a news network called ATN News that is clearly inspired by Fox News. In case that connection isnt obvious, when a story breaks about a Senate candidates husband sharing a picture of his rectum on social media, Roman jokes that it will interest ATNs audience because its emblematic of the liberal butt love that makes our viewership angry enough to buy pharmaceuticals.

However, the real-world connections dont overwhelm the series. The Roys may be slightly reminiscent of the Murdochs or, as other reviewers have pointed out, the Bluths from Arrested Development. But each of them has his or her own revealed idiosyncrasies and those are what make the show pop. Sure, there are intriguing plot twists involving leadership shake-ups, debts that must be paid, and a scandal in the cruise department that requires a hasty cover-up. But ultimately, its the behavior of these blatant power-seekers  and the performances by the actors who play them  that turn Succession from a mildly interesting dramedy into a full-blown addiction.

Roman is the snarky, lazy one, and Culkin makes him ooze with an arrogant know-it-all-ism that would be a total turn-off in real life but is absolutely delicious to watch on television. He has a way of smirking that is simultaneously charming and begging for a smack in the face. Snook (The Glass Castle, Steve Jobs) infuses Shiv with a resolute manipulativeness, aided by an absolutely obliviousness to the hardships of others. When she asks her cousin if he has cash she can borrow to buy something from a vending machine, he holds up a $20 bill while noting its his last one. Thanks, she says, snatching it from him without giving it a millisecond of thought.

Connor lives in New Mexico and is sort of an odd sibling out. But by episode four, when hes put in charge of overseeing the familys annual charity ball, its clear hes delusional in his own way. The butter is too cold! he screams at the whole kitchen staff in the middle of the event. Theres dinner rolls ripping out there as we speak! I am a laughing stock! And then theres Kendall, who radiates intensity and a desire to push the company forward  Bring me new original multimedia content, he exhorts the staff  but tiptoes around his father like hes walking on thin ice covered with a layer of egg shells.

Even characters who seem extraneous develop more and more layers as the series progresses. Shivs fiance, Tom (Matthew Macfadyen), seems at first like a sycophantic bonehead. And he is. But as played by Macfadyen, he also reveals more sinister ways of using people: Hes a coward who can suddenly shock you by turning into a snake, as seen when he worms his way into a bigger title at Waystar Royko.

But the most delightfully ridiculous character of all is Greg (Nicholas Braun), Logans nephew who is so ill-equipped for employment that he cant even make it through a day of dressing as a character at one of the Waystar amusement parks without getting so high that he barfs all over the inside of his mask. Gregs mother insists that he go to Logans birthday party and manipulate his way into getting a job. Miraculously, he does wheedle his way into the inner family circle, mainly due to his willingness to serve as the lackey and inept errand boy of whichever Roy family member decides to use and abuse him next. By episode three and four, its so absurd that hes able to hanging around (and Braun has such fun highlighting his lack of social skills), that every time Greg appears on screen you feel happy to see him.

The environs on Succession  the glass doors and windows of Waystar Roykos Manhattan offices, the obviously expensive but sterile homes where each Roy lives  give the series a chilly prestige vibe. The vibrancy that counterbalances it comes from sharp writing, which is filled with great zingers and creative ways of bending the English language. When Kendall tries to make the case that a verbal agreement is not binding, he says, Words are just nothing  complicated airflow. When Tom sees his predecessor, a beloved figure in the cruises and travel division of the company, bidding farewell to his staff, he says ruefully, Its like Mandela fucked Santa and gave birth to Bill. In moments like those, Succession can feel like a profane mix of Billions and Veep.

One thing that give me pause about the show is the fact that its yet another focused on the upper class. Succession doesnt glorify the moneyed and merciless, of course. These characters are not only flawed and untrustworthy; most of them are completely unqualified for their jobs and only earned them because they happen to share the same blood as an old-guard member of the boys club. Succession is a funny, incisive portrait of the dynamics within a well-off family, but its also a cautionary tale about how dicey and unethical it is to employ too many relatives. Thats a message that at least a few people in power could benefit from hearing.A man has been charged after driving the wrong way on I 565 and hitting a motorcycle.

Shannon Hubbard was charged with First Degree Assault for hitting a motorcycle head on.

The driver of the motorcyle is recovering in the hospital. Police say his injuries are not life threatening.



It happened around 8 p.m on Saturday, Jun 2nd.

According to authorities, Hubbard was under the influence and driving a van on I-565 west in the eastbound lanes.

East bound I-565 was shut down to one lane past Governors Drive for several hours as police finished their investigation.An Alabama farmer is charged with stealing crop insurance money.

Federal prosecutors want him to re-pay more than $919,000.

Dexter Gilbert was charged is charged with illegally receiving funds from the Federal Agriculture Department's insurance program to compensate farmers for crop losses caused by natural disasters.

Court records said Gilbert received payments he wasn't entitled to for over a yearA new twenty mile canoe trail is on the way for North Alabama. Senator Arthur Orr and other local officials announced the Flint Creek Canoe Trail in Morgan County that'll allow paddlers to see more wildlife. This new project will allow them to access areas that are too remote right now.

"It's really exciting that we can go on a lot more water and it's really opened up. We can see more wildlife and really have some fun out there on the water with our friends and family hopefully," said Carter Sample.

Carter and Marilyn Sample live near the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. They're glad they don't have to travel far to have fun.

"It's really nice to unwind after a busy week," said Marilyn Sample

The refuge in Morgan County is part of the Alabama scenic river trail. State senate Arthur Orr said it took about a year to plan the 20-mile canoe trail.

"In about December, we should have it all navigable and all open. All the signage that's required and for people to enjoy it from then on," said Senator Arthur Orr.

The head waters at the beginning of the trail is narrow. There are lots of trees and branches in the way. From now until December, the Morgan County rescue squad will clear the path making it easier to navigate the canoes.

"Opening up the other 10 miles will allow us to open up the camp site and things like that. To make it more user friendly for paddlers," said Jay Grantland with Alabama scenic river trails.

Officials said over a half million of visitors come to the 35 thousand-acre refuge a year. Once the creek expands they expect more people to visit and locals won't have to travel as far.

"This is an opportunity for people to find new places to paddle. That's what paddlers like. They've done with stretch of water and they don't want to do it anymore. They want to find someplace else to like," Grantland said.

It'll cost around $7,000 to complete the canoe trail project.

The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is along the Tennessee river and is a habitat to twelve endangered species.A former Georgia high school "Teacher of the Year" is accused of sexually assaulting three female students on campus.

The Cobb County Sheriff's Department said 48 year old Spencer Herron was arrested Friday on three felony charges of sexual assault by a teacher.

Herron was named "Teacher of the Year" in 2016.

Charges were brought against Herron by three students, or former students.

In one case, Herron is accused of raping the victim multiple times between January and May of 2017.

Right now he's in jail on a $50,000 dollar bond.With primaries around the corner, Governor Kay Ivey is coming to the Rocket City to meet with voters.

She will stop in Huntsville on Monday as part of state wide tour.

She will be encouraging republicans to get out and vote on Tuesday.

Her visit will be at the Signature Flight Support at the Huntsville International Airport at 10 a.m.

The event is open to the public.1. Yes. The medical data shows it will be beneficial to get one. The sooner the better.

2. Yes. Theres no rush, but I plan to get one sometime in the next few months.

3. No. Im not sold on the need for a booster. Besides, the case numbers are falliing.

4. No. I havent been vaccinated for COVID-19, and I dont plan to get the booster, either.

5. Unsure. It may be smart to wait and see how beneficial the booster shots prove to be.

Vote

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Your Email Address: Your Email Address is required.Georgia new No. 1 in AP football poll; Kentucky vaults to 11Judge Throws Out Settlement in Foster Care Case

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By The Associated Press

Jun. 01, 2018 | FRANKFORT, KY

By The Associated Press Jun. 01, 2018 | 10:52 AM | FRANKFORT, KY

A federal judge has thrown out a legal settlement that would require Kentucky to monitor faith-based foster homes to make sure they don't use public money to evangelize children in the state's care.



The ruling is part of a nearly 20-year-old lawsuit challenging state funding of Sunrise Children's Services, a private child care facility owned by the Kentucky Baptist Convention. The group has had a contract with the state since 1978. Of the group's 1,214 children, 390 are wards of the state.



In 2000, the American Civil Liberties Union and Americans United for Separation of Church and State sued, accusing Sunrise Children's Services of using taxpayer dollars to coerce children in state custody into religious practices.



In 2015, former Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear's administration signed a settlement that would have closed the case. The agreement required the state to closely monitor its private child care providers' religious activities. Lawyers for the ACLU and Americans United for Separation of Church and State would get access to state documents to make sure the state was following the rules. The documents would redact children's names and other personal identifying information.



The Beshear administration agreed to the settlement a few weeks before Republican Gov. Matt Bevin took office. Bevin, a religious conservative who has been a major donor to the Southern Baptist Convention, opposed the settlement, saying it's intent was to "scrub out anybody's exposure to anything religious if they are in government care."



"The governor of Kentucky gave authority to those two organizations to track the religious preferences and any religious activities of foster children in our private care providers in Kentucky," Bevin said in a video posted to his Twitter account. "That's unbelievable, an incredible intrusion of people's rights and people's privacy."



Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Charles Simpson threw out the settlement because he said the state would have to write new regulations to comply with it, which is illegal under state law. Lawyers for the ACLU and Americans United criticized the reversal as politically motivated.



"The question of politics ... matters not a whit in this analysis," Simpson wrote. "The court is concerned only with the legality of the agreement, whether it is reasonable, fair to those affected, and whether the public interest is served by its entry."



If the settlement had been allowed to stand, it would have closed the case. Instead, the lawsuit is likely to last a few more years. The parties could negotiate a new settlement. Otherwise, the court will decide whether Kentucky's contracting with a faith-based child care organization violates the U.S. Constitution's ban on the establishment of a state religion.



"If this ruling stands up it will be very harmful to children in Kentucky state child care system," said Alex Luchenitser, associate legal director for Americans United for Separation of Church and State. "This is a strong settlement that provides strong protections for children to ensure that they are not religiously proselytized, not coerced to attend religious activities and not discriminated against on the basis of religion."



Sunrise Children's Services President Dale Suttles said the group does not proselytize or coerce children into becoming Christians. He said many of the agency's foster parents are recruited from local churches. If the family goes to church, the child would attend church with the family "like any other child would." He said the agency's focus is on "the well-being of every child."



Kentucky Baptist Convention President Paul Chitwood, who is a foster parent himself and a member of Sunrise's board of directors, called allegations of religious coercion "unquestionably false."



"Children in our care have the same choices that kids have at any private provider or family's care," he said. "We follow the rules and are glad to do so."GENERAL ASSEMBLY FINALIZES $23.9 BILLION BUDGET FOR NORTH CAROLINA: A WHKP NEWS ANALYSIS

THE STATE'S BUDGET NOW GOES TO GOVERNOR COOPER FOR A LIKELY VETO...WHICH IS JUST AS LIKELY TO BE OVER-RIDDEN BY THE GOP CONTROLLED LEGISLATURE

STATE REP. MCGRADY SAYS LOCAL FLOOD DAMAGE IS TO BE ASSESSED THIS COMING WEEK...COULD RESULT IN "SOME CHANGES TO THE BUDGET".

The Republican-led General Assembly has given final legislative approval to North Carolina budget adjustments for the coming year.

Senate Bill 99 passed by a fully partisan vote, which means the 267-page omnibus package heads to the desk of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. The governor must now decide whether to again formally challenge Republicans with his veto stamp as he did last year - only to be overridden by the GOP supermajority.

"We can do so much more to raise teacher pay, improve school safety and protect drinking water but legislative Republicans thought it was more important to protect their tax breaks for corporations and people making over $200,000 a year," Ford Porter, a spokesman for Gov. Roy Cooper, said in a statement. "Governor Cooper's budget proposed tax fairness for teacher pay along with forward-thinking investments while saving responsibly."

The House voted 66-44 on Friday for the $23.9 billion spending plan.

State Representative Chuck McGrady from Henderson County was a key budget writer. And he told WHKP News over the weekend that hes pleased with the final numbers.

McGrady points out that Governor Roy Cooper now has ten days from last Friday to either sign the budget bill or veto it, or if he does nothing after the ten days the budget will become law.

McGrady added that a veto by the Democrat governor wont surprise him, and McGrady says he is confident the Republican controlled legislature can and will over-ride the veto.

On his web site, McGrady offered more comment on the amended state budget:

Technically, this budget is an amendment of the two-year budget we passed last year. Probably 90% of it is the same. However, there are some major spending decisions and some policy decision being made. The inability to amend the budget or be involved in a committee process to develop it was understandably a huge impediment to obtaining Democratic support. Additionally, there were the usual hurdles: differences of opinion as to how to spend money, what taxes to levy, and policy on various issues.

As our coverage pointed out, the budget bill is now with the Governor; he now has ten days from when he receives it to either sign it or veto it. If he doesnt sign it or veto it, the budget will automatically become law. The assumption is that he will veto it, and that the legislature will attempt to override the veto before the end of the fiscal year which ends on June 30. A three-fifths vote by both chambers will be needed to override any veto.

The recent heavy rains and flooding here in the Henderson County area could well require some state and federal relief, and McGrady added, The flooding in western North Carolina could result in some change to the budget. Beginning this coming week, assessments of the flood damages will be made. Perhaps a federal disaster proclamation will trigger federal funding. It is just too early to know whether additional state funding relating to the flooding will be needed.

Here are some of the highlights of that 23.9 billion North Carolina budget:

Investing in Teachers and Schools

 6.5% average teacher pay raise

 $3,150 average raise for principals

 $700 million increase in public education funding

 Fully funds enrollment growth and maintains the per-pupil allocation for textbooks

State Employees Compensation

 $31,200 sets a baseline salary for all permanent state employees  the so-called Living Wage.

 All state employees will receive a 2% raise and state retirees will receive a one-time 1.0% cost of living supplement

Disaster Relief

 $60 million earmarked for disaster relief, focused primarily on Hurricane Matthew victims, bringing the total to $336 million

 Funding to avoid damages of future floods, hurricanes or fires, by mapping landslide areas in the mountains and the relocation of buildings in flood-prone areas

 Funding additional equipment for emergency management equipment

Supporting Law Enforcement and Correction Officers

 $15 million for security and safety improvements in NC prisons

 4% pay raise for all corrections officers

 State troopers can reach the top pay of $64,202 in six years with significant pay raises starting for cadets in training to become state troopers

School Safety

 $35 million for various safety initiatives that school systems can access

 $241 million in lottery funding to build or upgrade school facilities

More Money in Your Pockets and More Money Saved

 99% of North Carolina families will pay less in state taxes or pay no state income taxes at all

 The new state income tax rate will be lowered to 5.25%. Very recently, the rate was 7.75%

 $2 billion in the so-called Rainy Day fund which, if needed following natural disasters or tough economic times, will fund needed governmental programs

Again, North Carolina's Democrat Governor Roy Cooper has ten days to either sign or veto the Republican's budget.

By WHKP News Director Larry Freeman 06/03/18 2 pmThank you for reading!

Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue.MARCY -- The DiNitto farms held their annual Farm Fest Friday in Marcy.

Visitors got to see farm animals and experience how farms work up close.

Coordinators say it was one of the hottest days of Farm Fest they've experienced.



Still, more than 700 people came out to the event to get an inside look into farm life.

There was a hay maze, tractor rides, and educational displays about agriculture.



Kids enjoyed pony rides, and elementary school students were there learning about where their food comes from.



Kids say they loved the hands on exhibits at the event.

Farm fest started in the late 1990s and it's been going ever since.



Organizers say farm fest is a way for local people to meet Oneida Countys farmers.

Farm fest typically takes place on the Friday after Memorial Day.

If you want to keep up with events happening at DiNitto farms click here.NEW INFORMATION-

New York State Police has confirmed the man who was reported missing from Otego was found on Sunday morning and is in good health. The "Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert" has been cancelled.

OTEGO- New York State Division of Criminal Justice Service have activated a "Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert" for 63-year-old, Wilson Perez, who has been missing since Friday at 2 p.m.

Police said he was last seen at his home in Otego (Otsego County). He left in a gray colored Toyota RAV 4 with a New York License Plate of DHU3339.

He's 5'4" tall, with blue eyes and brown hair and was last seen wearing a blue t-shirt and light colored sweatpants. Police he also requires medication.

Anyone with information is asked to call the New York State Police at (607)561-7400.



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Sorry, the page you requested was not found. If you're having trouble locating a destination on Womenofchina.cn, try visiting the Womenofchina Home pageThis long-vacant mill building in the Bernon Mills complex on Front Street in Woonsocket could once again see new life.Potential students get university insight at postgraduate event

This article is old - Published: Sunday, Jun 3rd, 2018

A busy open evening for people looking into postgraduate study options has been held at Wrexham Glyndwr University.

The evening gave prospective students the chance to sit down and meet lecturers and academics at the university to discuss courses and to meet with current postgraduate and professional students.

Staff from the student support services teams were also on hand to offer advice during the event  including on how to combine your studies with your career, your wellbeing when you are studying with us  and what help is available for to help fund your studies.

Among the scholarships and bursaries on offer is a postgraduate support bursary backed by the Welsh Government for Welsh and EU domiciled students starting either a full-time or part time Masters Degree this September.

Supported by the Welsh Government, Wrexham Glyndwr University are offering a limited number of fee reductions  these will be in the form of a Support Bursary of 3,400 to each eligible student.

Students have to be domiciled in either Wales or the EU and the funding can only be used for MA and MSc courses starting in September 2018.

Senior Student Funding and Money Adviser, Beryl Dixon, said: There are only a limited number of full-time and part-time bursaries available, and applications need to be in by July 30  so if you are interested in them, you should act fast.

If you are a Wrexham Glyndwr alumnus, you may also be eligible for our Postgraduate Scholarship  which, used alongside the Bursary, could reduce your fees even more.

Head of Recruitment and Admissions, Julie Cowley, added: We have a wide range of postgraduate courses available and there was something on offer to suit everyone.

Talking to people during the evening, there were a number of reasons for people wanting to come along  everything from expanding on their current areas of study to developing their professional career with further study.

You can find out more about the bursary, and to use Wrexham Glyndwr Universitys interactive tool which shows you how much you could save, here.INDIANAPOLIS, Ind - (AP) Indiana Republicans could remove language from the state party's platform that calls for marriage between a man and a woman.

The language was added when Vice President Mike Pence was governor. But it is omitted from the latest draft of Indiana Republican Party's platform. Delegates will be able to vote on the platform when they meet in Evansville next weekend.

GOP Chairman Kyle Hupfer tells the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette that the new draft is a "compromise" that includes language that is inclusive. He says the party's goal was "to try not to offend anyone."

Not everyone is happy with the proposed change.

Micah Clark, executive director of the socially conservative American Family Association of Indiana, called it a "weak statement" that was "pure mush."

Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.EUPORA, Miss. (WTVA) - A reward is being offered for information in the shooting case near Eupora High School earlier this year.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Webster County Sheriff's Department and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is offering a reward of up to $5,000 to anyone with information or the location of the firearm used in the shooting that took place on March 28.

Cole Breazeale | Photo: Webster County Jail Cole Breazeale | Photo: Webster County Jail

Webster County investigator Landon Griffin says they have been getting tips on the whereabouts of the gun and they are getting closer to finding that firearm.

"We developed a couple leads early on to where it might have been, we did look in those areas but have yet to find it." Said Landon Griffin

The firearm is a 9mm handgun.

Nathaniel Cole Breazeale has been arrested and charged in connection to the shooting.

911 officials received reports of shots fired by the school's band hall. Shell casings were found on a road near the school. Fortunately, no one was injured.TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - As severe weather continues to threaten our area, one thing is on many people's minds, how can I get truly prepared?

The City of Tallahassee and Leon County's fourth annual Build Your Bucket event was back to help people do just that.

800 people left with hands full of hurricane preparedness supplies Saturday at the Build Your Bucket event. That's double last year's amount.

One of them, Jasmine Carnell, says it was shocking to experience a hurricane her first year living in Florida.

"And I was actually in a city where there was a lot of flooding and you couldn't drink the water and we had no electricity," said Carnell.

Carnell says, she came to this event to become more serious and informed about what she can do to keep herself and others safe during a disaster.

"I learned a lot from that experience and definitely don't look forward to any repeats, but it's all about preparedness," said Carnell.

This year was a family-friendly expo with 40 community response groups sharing information and supplies.

Children learned how to stay safe in an emergency and who they should call during those situations.

"I learned the number 211. So to call 211 if you need help on the weather and stuff," said Kennedy and Garrett Turner, who attended the Build Your Bucket event.

Even local businesses participate, saying they want to give back to the community by helping them feel prepared.

Tadlock Roofing gave away 500 tarps.

"Heaven forbid something happens to their roof during hurricane season, they are equipped with at least a tarp to help patch it up," said Meagan Nixon, Tadlock Roofing Marketing Director.

In the end, everyone left the Build Your Bucket event feeling empowered to be prepared for this hurricane season.

There weren't enough supplies at Saturday's event to accommodate the nearly 2,000 people who showed up.

Those who didn't get buckets were given bags to collect supplies from local resources.TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - The firearms debate continued in Florida's Capital City Saturday with dozens of local moms and activists wearing orange as they spoke out against gun violence.

Dozens read poetry and wore the color orange to send a message at the Tallahassee Wear Orange event Saturday.

"We're not gonna stop. We gonna keep going and we're gonna keep demanding change until something happens," said Lincoln High School student Raziah Rwito.

Hunters wear orange so they don't get shot at, now these activists are doing the same.

Rwito performed her song "We Are One" inspired by recent shootings.

"The song that I wrote is a call for change. It speaks on the topic of all these tragedies but in the end we have to keep fighting for peace," said Rwito.

Many local high school students were given the opportunity to share their opinion about gun violence at the event. Event organizers say it's important to get the younger generation involved in this discussion.

"They're seeing this happen in their schools again and again and we all need to pay a lot of attention to what they're saying and take some legislative steps to keep them safe at school," said Kate Kile, member of Moms Demand Action For Gun Sense in Tallahassee.

People also made sidewalk drawings and other art, trying to bring the community together to find a way to end gun violence.

After the event, Mothers Demand Action for Gun Sense in America Tallahassee gave cash prizes to high school students with the best performance.VERNON PARISH, LA (KPLC) - A 31-year-old man was struck and killed while removing debris from the roadway of US 171 Tuesday afternoon, authorities said.

Sherell L. Lewis Jr., 31, had stopped his vehicle on the side of the southbound lanes, north of Pickering, around 3:15 p.m. to remove the debris, according to a news release from Louisiana State Police Troop E.

"What it appears at this point is that this man was trying to do a good deed." says Sergeant James Anderson with LSP. "There was debris in the roadway and he didn't want any other motorists to strike it. So he gets out of the vehicle to remove the debris, and he is struck while this is happening."

Lewis was struck by a 2003 Chevrolet pickup driven by 18-year-old Matthew M. Martin, of Hineston, said Master Trooper Scott Moreau. Lewis was pronounced dead at an Alexandria hospital.

Martin was wearing a seatbelt and was not injured.

Routine toxicology tests are pending. The crash is still under investigation.

"It's horrendous." says Lake Charles NAACP President Rev. J.L. Franklin. "Our prayers are with the family, no doubt about that. But what is most devastating is the aftermath of that. The posts."

'The posts' Rev. Franklin referring to is a Snapchat post by Martin and a conversation containing racial language following the crash have been widely shared on social media. Several viewers have sent images of the posts to KPLC.

The Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office has also been contacted numerous times about the posts.

Sheriff Sam Craft said that while the posts were "morally and socially unacceptable, the post did not violate criminal law."

Sheriff Craft:

I am appalled at the content of the social media messages that were posted after the incident. This post is unacceptable and has no place in our society. The inflammatory words that were used were morally wrong. I have the utmost confidence in the Louisiana State Police and their ability to thoroughly investigate this incident. I encourage any citizen who has information regarding the accident to contact the Louisiana State Police  Troop E, Alexandria, La. (318) 487-5911.

Shotoya Lewis-Ayers, Lewis' older sister, says that her brother will be remembered for his smile and his positive attitude towards helping others.

"He would have helped anybody that needed help no matter what. If you were feeling down, he would always make jokes, crack you up, keep you smiling."

Lewis-Ayers says that her brother owned Sonny Boyz Barber and Beauty off of Highway 171.

"He loved what he did. That includes the barbery and touching people's lives."

KPLC and FOX29 reporter Chandler Watkins is covering this story and will have more on later editions.

Copyright 2018 KPLC. All right reserved.TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Tallahassee Classical School is asking for the community's help in raising money to open a charter school in Leon County.

Saturday they hosted a family event to raise money for legal fees in their fight to open the school.

The Leon County School Board denied their request in April.

Tallahassee Classical School responded by appealing it to the Florida Department of Education this week.

"Our goal is two-fold. We want to engage with the community and answer questions and we're fundraising. So we are raising money to help up combat the cost of the appeal," said Jana Sayler, Tallahassee Classical School Board Chair.

Leaders of the proposed classical school say they're pushing to open up because they want to offer different and more unique opportunities for local students.James Scott going to Malawi, Africa, on three-week mission trip

WORLAND  Shell Cowboy Church pastor James Scott, known as the Cowboy Preacher, is leaving on a three-week mission to Malawi, Africa, June 13 to share the good news of Jesus Christ.

"This is just one trip. Anywhere I get the opportunity to go and share the Gospel, as long as God continues to supply those needs, I'm going to go to the ends of the earth," Scott said.

About six years ago Scott met a man named Jimmy May in Sturgis, South Dakota. "He's asked me to go to Africa for the last four years. This is their 15th year of going, which will be their final year. It's always kind of been overlapping one of our other ministries but this year the junior high national finals is going to be in South Dakota and I have a guy who is going to run that, so that alleviates me from having to go over there. That was in the same timeframe, so I told Jimmy I might make it to Malawi. Once we started looking into it, the Lord opened up the doors and it just really seemed like that's where I was supposed to go for those three weeks," Scott said. "The people I'm going with, they have seen over 200,000 salvations in 14 years. They are reaching the lost. These people are so hungry for the word [of God]," he added.

Scott feels that since God has given him the ability to share the Gospel he should share it with everyone possible and is looking forward to sharing with people who don't know Jesus but want to. "I have the key to eternity. I can lead anybody to Christ if they want to come to Christ. I have the ability, the gift to give that but never have I had somebody come up to me and say can you please tell me about your God, can you tell me about Jesus? It just doesn't happen like that, so I realized that if I have that gift, if I have the keys to eternal life that I should be sharing that with anybody and

everybody, not only the people in Africa. We need to be doing it in our own hometown, our own state, our own country. There are people that know they have a sin nature but they don't know what to do with it. The Bible tells us, we know there is something there, God's made himself evident through all different things and so now we just need people; the harvest is plentiful and the workers are few. If we are going to be a Christian, if we are going to show and tell people we are Christians we need to start looking like and acting like it.

"I get frustrated just watching people, they say they are Christian but the only proof they have is what they say. There is no proof that they are living for Jesus. They just do what they want, when they want, however they want to do it. I don't want anyone to ever ask me if I am a Christian. I want to make sure that what I say, how I represent myself and what I do shows Christianity. But you still have to go farther, if you want to lead people to Christ you have to share the gospel with them [for them] to get saved," Scott said.

Once Scott decided that he was going to go on the mission to Africa, he announced his decision to his many followers on Facebook, asking for not only small donations to fund the trip but also for prayers. In a little over a week, Scott received enough donations to fund the trip and asks people to continue to pray for him and the mission.

Scott stated that he looked up Malawi and learned that it has about 36 times more people than Wyoming in about half the amount of space. "Wyoming has about 580,000 people in 97,000 square miles. Malawi, a little over 18 million people and half of the area, only 45,000 square miles. But it's different over there from what I hear. I'm excited, I want to go. I think the Lord has got me to a position where he is going to break my heart in a way that it has never been broken before. I think it's [his heart] ready, being 10 years in ministry, I've seen a whole lot of things so this is going to add it and who knows, I'm sure it's going to change my life somehow. We are beyond blessed in what we have. I don't care if you are the brokest person in Worland, you have more than any person over there will ever have. I want to go and share with people who want to hear what I have to say," Scott said. "I hope to come back and say we have 15,000 new brothers and sisters in Christ," he added.

While in Malawi, Scott stated that the mission group will visit villages, orphanages, prisons and schools. A new church will be started during the second week and baptisms will be performed. He stated that the women going on the mission will be living in a makeshift motel room and the men will be living in what can best be described as a barn. Scott jokingly stated, "So we will be sleeping in mosquito nets and stuff like that. I didn't hear about that until after I had already committed."

Preaching to people who do not speak the same language will have its challenges. Scott and the other mission members will have a translator. Scott stated that it will be an adjustment to have to speak a sentence and wait for the translator to repeat the sentence before saying the next sentence.

Scott asks for prayers for the mission but also asks for prayers for the family members left behind. "My wife and I have been best friends for a long time and we have never spent three weeks apart. Pray for God's anointing on the team and for their families who stay home."THERMOPOLIS  Engineers from the Wyoming Department of Transportation hosted a public meeting for Thermopolis residents on Thursday to outline an upcoming road project that will effectively replace 2.6 miles of U. S. Highway 20 / 789 through the town in 2020.

The project, slated to open for bids in fall 2019, will include federal Americans with Disabilities Act compliance improvements to 16 i...MADRID, June 1 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of the European Union (EU) and several European nations on Friday expressed confidence in Spain's new government.

European Commission (EC) President Jean-Claude Juncker was one of the first to congratulate Spain's new prime minister Pedro Sanchez who took over the government after conservative Mariano Rajoy was ousted due to a motion of non-confidence passed in the Congress of Deputies.

"I trust that the Spanish government will continue contributing in a constructive way for a Europe that is stronger, more united and fairer, which is a challenge we face together", he said, adding that he is fully confident in Spain's commitment to the European project.

President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani also congratulated the new prime minister and invited him to appear before the Plenary Session of the European Parliament to discuss the future of the European Union (EU).

"I invite him to the plenary session, in Strasbourg, to present and debate with the MEPs the ideas of his government on the future of the EU," Tajani tweeted.

German government spokesperson Steffen Seibert said Germany hoped to maintain the "close bilateral collaboration" and "friendship" with Spain, Spanish public TV said.

"It is clear that we hope for a stable government in Madrid because it is a very close and very important partner," said the spokesman.

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa praised the "friendship" Sanchez offered him and announced that he hopes that after that change the two sides continue to deepen "in the path we have been developing and with the important projects that we have in progress, either from a bilateral point of view or within the scope of the European Union."

Costa also stressed that Rajoy was "a very important partner."

On social network, leader of the French Socialist Party, Olivier Faure, wrote: "Bravo, Pedro Sanchez, new prime minister of the Spanish government! My best wishes for success in this great challenge you assume. For Spain, for Europe and for the left!"CHICAGO, June 2 (Xinhua) -- A Ford wagon with Chinese car plate and the body covered with advertisements and slogans is eye-catching in Chinatown in downtown Chicago.

After touring 55 countries in four continents, Fan Yuhu, a freelancer cameraman, arrived in the U.S. city of Chicago.

Fan kicked off his tour of the world by driving a car from Shanghai in August 2013. With 600 U.S. dollars in pocket at the start, he crossed Asia, Europe, Africa and arrived in New York on Feb. 5, driving more than 200,000 km. On the trip, he has his car ferried twice and container shipped to North America from Africa.

Born in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, growing up in Guangzhou and working in Shanghai, Fan, 42, had never been abroad before setting off on the trip, nor known any foreign languages. Hardship is all that can be imaged.

Driving through 25 countries in Africa in eight months is the hardest part Fan has experienced so far: he was blackmailed by police officers, robbed and stolen, fell ill with fever, and had narrow escape several times. But several blind dates there gave him some sweet memories.

Applying for visa is another difficult and costly thing. Besides being denied from time to time and being locked in black rooms at customs, Fan has spent more than 200,000 yuan in applying visas.

Fortunately, "I've got help from overseas Chinese everywhere I went," Fan told Xinhua.

They gave him food, provided him accommodations, and took him to shower. "I am grateful to them," Fan said.

From the beginning of the trip, Fan has two dreams to fulfill: to film a documentary of his own; and to find a wife who is willing to share weal and woe of the trip with him.

Fan has so far shot more than 10,000 hours of footage. As for finding a wife, he gives it to chance and luck.

Fan wants to stage a Chinese version of "Forrest Gump" with his own experiences.

After touring the United States and Canada, Fan will head down to Mexico into South America, and then further to Australia. He plans to return to China before the 2019 Chinese spring festival.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 03:13:13|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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by John Crumlish

LOS ANGELES, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Starting on June 15, visitors to Universal Studios Hollywood can accompany the beloved animated panda Po in "Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor's Quest," a first-of-its kind immersive adventure and the premier attraction of the studios' new DreamWorks Theatre.

Jon Corfino, senior director and executive producer for Universal Studios Hollywood Creative, assures an all-encompassing experience for guests as they embark on a 10-minute mission packed with sensory, audio and visual dynamics.

"It's based on immersing guests into the world of DreamWorks," Corfino told Xinhua in a recent interview. "There is a lot of illusion. You'll be taken to places you haven't been before, and there will be a lot of surprises."

Corfino said the global popularity of the "Kung Fu Panda" film franchise made it the obvious first choice as the first spectacle in the lushly appointed, technologically innovative new theatre.

The "Kung Fu Panda" film franchise from DreamWorks Animation consists of three films: "Kung Fu Panda" (2008), "Kung Fu Panda 2" (2011) and "Kung Fu Panda 3 "(2016).

The franchise is hailed as not only an excellent contribution to the wuxia (martial heroes) genre, but for its impressively knowledgeable understanding of Chinese culture and heritage for an American movie production.

"It would be better to ask, 'Why not?'" he said. "It's such a great franchise, it's family-friendly, it's very popular and it seemed to hit all the right notes. It's very conducive to what we're trying to achieve inside."

Created and produced by DreamWorks Animation and Universal Creative, "Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor's Quest" features the first-ever integration of interior projection mapping that is designed to engulf guests in 180 degrees of action.

Seven Christie 4K Boxer cinema projectors, 360-degree audio and physical effects envelop guests as the storytelling progresses through encounters with roaring rapids, menacing river pirates, wind, magic, flaming arrows, a cave full of fireflies and plenty of kung fu.

"This was kind of a dream, how we could really transform a complete inner space," said Corfino of the interior mapping.

Given the attraction's spectacular array of optical elements, Corfino said the team understood from the start that the more common three-dimensional (3D) visual perspective would not suffice.

"3D is fabulous but it's primarily designed when you're focused, and things come at you in some way," he said. "We've learned, and a lot of the audience has learned, that 3D tends to shut off your periphery a bit. This show is all about the periphery and immersing you."

In another departure from the more familiar guest experiences at theme parks around the world, the team chose to make "Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor's Quest" a seated journey instead of a ride. The stationary experience is just as thrilling, however, Corfino said.

"We are always trying to innovate, and we thought the opportunity to surround guests and create this great illusion was something that has never been done before," Corfino said.

Although the show's storyline is original, and includes some components not found in the "Kung Fu Panda" films, Corfino said authenticity has not been compromised in the strive for freshness and uniqueness.

"Integrity is absolutely everything," he said. "This is a DreamWorks property, so we worked with their writers, directors and everybody who's had anything to do with this franchise to make sure we were being true to it."

Corfino said guests quickly morph from spectators to active participants when the villainous Kang Wolf hits the Ming Hammer he stole, hurtling guests and characters together into the Spirit Realm.

"You see the entire theatre destroy itself," Corfino said. "The outside is spinning around us and we engage in a massive kung fu fight. Somehow we get back to the emperor, and at end of the show, the theatre rebuilds itself in front of us. It' s an incredibly immersive, powerful experience."

Although "Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor's Quest" was not created to appeal to any particular culture, Corfino said its Chinese setting and themes could well entice more Chinese tourists to visit the studios and specifically the attraction.

"I sure hope so," he said with a hopeful chuckle.

"I think it absolutely will. We enjoy a tremendous demographic visit from Asia, but it's such a great franchise, so I don' t know if it was directly linked to that. It may be a happy coincidence. But I think it's serendipitous, surely," Corfino told Xinhua.

Regardless of ancestry, however, Corfino said everyone relates to the star of the attraction.

"Po is a panda who didn't get any respect, but he engages with the inner magic and the power of himself," Corfino said. "A lot of us want to connect with that kind of sensibility."Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 05:33:33|Editor: Chengcheng

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Rescuers work at the site of an road accident in the town of Tepetlaoxtoc, in central Mexico State, Mexico, on June 2, 2018. At least 10 people were killed when a cargo truck slammed into a passenger bus on Saturday in central Mexico State, local police reported. (Xinhua/Fernando Ramirez)

MEXICO CITY, June 2 (Xinhua) -- At least 10 people were killed when a cargo truck slammed into a passenger bus on Saturday in central Mexico State, local police reported.

The accident, which left another 11 people injured, occurred in the vicinity of the northeastern town of Tepetlaoxtoc, at 32 km of a central highway connecting the cities of Texcoco and Calpulalpan, in central Tlaxcala state.

The cargo truck reportedly had break failure and rammed into the bus, killing eight passengers on site, the police told Xinhua. Two other victims died on the way to hospital.

The truck was carrying construction materials, and the impact of the crash sent both vehicles off the highway.

The injured were taken to a hospital in Texcoco, police said.

Mexico State Governor Alfredo del Mazo posted a message on Twitter, saying he was arranging for officials to attend to the victims and their families.

"I send my condolences to the relatives of the victims of the highway accident that occurred this morning in Tepetlaoxtoc," Del Mazo said.

Traffic was disrupted along the affected track and has gradually resumed after the rescue.HELSINKI, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Value conservative statements by Finnish Foreign Minister Timo Soini has become an embarrassment to the Finnish political establishment this week and attracted a reaction from Finnish President Sauli Niinisto on Saturday.

Soini had deplored on social media the pro-abortion outcome of the Irish referendum. Moreover, earlier in May he attended an anti-abortion event in Canada while visiting the country as the Finnish foreign minister.

While Soini claimed he took the stand as a private person, international uncertainty was created, local media said.

What added to the political flavor was the fact that Soini's political secretary of state at the ministry, Samuli Virtanen, published on social media a picture of "the foreign minister" in the event in Ottawa.

Niinisto said on Saturday that a minister cannot take a stand as a private person on political and social issues when visiting a country. "Particularly if the matter is controversial in that country".

Soini has referred to the freedom of religion as a ground for him to be able to express his opinion.

Soini's actions were debated during the parliamentary question hour on Thursday. Prime Minister Juha Sipila said ministers should be considerate.

Sipila said the rights of women and girls and their education are the first priority in the Finnish development policy, and nothing has changed.

Anne-Mari Virolainen, the minister for development, published a clarification that Finland supports the rights related to sexual health and reproduction. "Abortion rights are not a matter of opinion, but a human rights question," she said.

Abortion is not a general political issue in Finland, although there are politicians critical of the current liberal abortion policies in the country.TRIPOLI, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Libyan air force of the eastern-based army on Saturday evening carried out air strikes that killed and wounded a number of terrorists in the eastern city of Darna, a military source said.

"The air force carried out air strikes targeting a number of sites where terrorists were holed up. A munitions storehouse and a number of armed vehicles were targeted in the eastern and western Sheha areas (of Darna)," a source in the army's Darna operation chamber told Xinhua.

"A number of terrorists were killed and injured. We have heard from through our radios a distress call by the terrorists for ambulances," the source said.

The source also pointed out that two civilians were killed by random gunfire in clashes between the army forces and militants in Darna.

The UN Support Mission in Libya on Friday said that at least 17 civilians have been killed and 22 others wounded in Darna over the past two weeks, as a result of the fighting between the army and the militants.

The mission confirmed that some 125,000 people in Darna were suffering from power blackouts and water shortage.

It appealed to all parties in Darna to "allow unfettered and safe access of humanitarian workers and needed assistance."

The army, led by General Khalifa Haftar, has been besieging Darna since 2015, demanding that the Shura Council of the Mujahideen, a coalition of Islamist militias, to leave. The army accuses the armed group of being loyal to al-Qaida.TRIPOLI, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Imad Al-Sayah, head of the Libyan Higher National Commission of Elections, on Saturday called on the Libyan authorities to begin preparations for the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections now.

Sayah made his remarks during an exclusive interview with Xinhua on the outcome of the recent Paris meeting on Libya that gathered the Libyan parties, who agreed to hold the elections on Dec. 10.

"We believe that the date set, Dec. 10, is very soon. Unless preparations are made in this month, we will face double burdens as the date approaches," Sayah said.

"The process of preparation for the elections is more important than holding the elections," Sayah said, describing the upcoming election as "fateful politically and qualitatively."

"There are a number of conditions that must be met in order to carry out a successful electoral process, most importantly the sincere political will enhanced by the interest of the country by all the political parties that participated in the Paris conference," Sayah explained.

On Tuesday, France hosted a meeting on Libya in Paris which gathered the Libyan parties to end the Libyan political crisis.

In the meeting's final communique, Libyan Prime Minister Fayez Serraj, Khalid al-Meshri, head of the Libyan High Council of State, the eastern-based Parliament Speaker Agila Saleh and the eastern-based army commander Khalifa Haftar pledged "to work constructively with the UN to hold credible and peaceful elections and to respect election results."

The rival Libyan factions also agreed to hold "credible" presidential and parliamentary elections on Dec. 10.

"The (elections) commission will soon begin to communicate with all political parties that participated in the Paris conference, mainly the House of Representatives (parliament)," Sayah revealed.

"We will inform the parliament of the requirements for the upcoming elections, starting with the necessary legislation and technical details related to the implementation of the electoral processes (parliamentary and presidential), as well as the administrative, logistical and financial requirements that must be provided to the commission, so that it can carry out the elections according to international norms and principles," Sayah added.

"Following the completion of these consultations, the commission will consider setting the time frame for the start of the preparations, which will certainly begin with the opening of the voters registration to give citizens the opportunity to register their names or change their voting centers. Thus, we would have an updated voter registration with the start of the elections," he said.

When asked whether the recent IS terrorist attack on the commission's headquarters in Tripoli had affected the elections, Al-Sayah said the "treacherous" terrorist operation had little impact on "our technical, logistical or information capabilities."

A total of 15 people were killed, including nine officials of the commission, in an IS attack on the commission's headquarters in Tripoli on May 2.

"To honor the souls of our martyrs, we are determined to continue to carry out our mission towards our people and our dear homeland. We are staying and they (the terrorists) are doomed," said the head of the commission.

"High-level consultations and meetings are taking place to secure the upcoming elections, including raising the level of security at the Commission's headquarters and its offices and departments," he said. "Consultations are underway to develop plans to secure polling stations and to study security risks that could threaten the elections."

Following the terrorist attack on the commission's headquarters, the international community has expressed commitment to providing support to Libya, including security consultations and training, as well as provision of security equipment.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 07:54:15|Editor: Chengcheng

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A man carries children as he wades through a flooded area in Sanaa, Yemen, on June 2, 2018. A heavy rain hit Sanaa on Saturday. Yemeni authorities warned citizens to take necessary precautions against expected flash flood. (Xinhua/Mohammed Mohammed)MANILA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Sunday that he will discuss defense, security and trade issues with South Korean President Moon Jae-in during his visit to Seoul this week.

In a speech before leaving for Seoul, Duterte said he plans to discuss a slew of issues with Moon during their meeting on Monday, including ways to further improve bilateral trade, defense and security cooperation, investments in infrastructure, information and information and communications technology (ICT), and tourism ties.

"In my talks with President Moon, I will explore ways to bring cooperation to all new level. I will emphasize the importance of strengthening our partnership in defense and security, trade and investment, and political cooperation," Duterte said.

Moreover, Duterte said he will also stressed the need for both countries "to work together to help achieve greater security by addressing conventional and emerging threats to stability in our country."

He said he will also meet with Korean business leaders "(to) encourage them to be our responsible partners in our pursuit of economic growth."

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said four agreements will be signed by the Philippines and South Korea, including the memoranda of understanding (MOUs) on transportation, science and technology, trade and economic cooperation.

Duterte said the ties between Manila and Seoul "are long and deep."

"Today we stand shoulder-to-shoulder in advancing our shared aspirations in facing threats to our nations and our peoples and in our region," Duterte said.

He said there is much to learn from South Korea's experience and expertise. "Despite seemingly insurmountable challenges, (South Korea) successfully transform itself into one of the most advanced and progressive economies of the world," he said.

As a long-standing partner, he said the Philippines "stands ready to write a new chapter of closer ties, deeper and amity and more comprehensive collaboration with South Korea." EnditemNEW DELHI, June 3 (Xinhua) -- First it was the cab revolution and now it is the turn of bike taxis that are changing the way people travel across India.

Commonly known as "baxis," a combination of the words bike and taxis, baxis are motorcycle taxis that have made commuting affordable, faster and safer across various states.

The concept of baxis is not new. In highly populated countries like Indonesia and Thailand where traffic jams are a daily routine, baxis takes people around in a fraction of the time a car takes.

Even in India, bike taxis are commonly used in tourist states like Goa for the convenience of visitors and are a popular source of employment. More recently, bike taxis have ushered in a welcoming change in metropolitan cities.

Innovative start-ups in the transport field introduced the idea of bike taxis in metropolitan cities about five years ago when the concept of shared transportation became popular.

Over the past few years, the "sharing economy" has been growing.

According to a Brookings India report, the sharing economy is believed to reach 335 billion U.S. dollars by 2025 in the country. Besides, the concept of sharing the ride, bike taxis were seen as innovative for tackling the problems of growing traffic jams and pollution in major cities.

"The initial idea was to promote bike taxis in big cities which were choking because of pollution. Take the case of Delhi and its wealthy suburb Gurgaon where smog has become a yearly feature. For daily commuters who were taking cabs to work and back home, bike taxis were a faster and more effective way of travel," said Dheeraj Singh, who works for a bike taxi aggregator.

They were also a good source of employment for unskilled people who came to cities looking for work. "People from smaller cities especially know how to drive a two-wheeler. With a little bit of training on how to deal with passengers, especially female passengers, and speed maintenance, these drivers have a good source of employment," Singh said.

"Moreover, most start-up taxi aggregators offer a higher return on investment to drivers if they buy a bike taxi. Say if you invest 5,000 rupees (about 75 U.S. dollars) per month in a bike taxi, the return could be as high as 15,000 rupees (223 U.S. dollars) per month. It is a very lucrative source of income in the cities," said Ashu, who drives a bike taxi in Gurgaon.

However, the highly regulated nature of the Indian economy has created several operational issues for bike taxi aggregators across different states. Bureaucratic red tape and the need for a license permit, led to the withholding of permits to many aggregators.

Furthermore, under the Motor Vehicles Act, only states can give permits to such aggregators and it is not dependent on the city. In 2004, the then Indian government ensured that the only requirement for bike taxis was a commercial registration along with a yellow number plate.

"Despite some respite at that time, the idea of bike taxis didn't take off initially. States like Maharashtra and Karnataka kept banning several companies such as HeyTaxi and Baxi for mundane reasons despite calls to regularize them. There were also issues of funding. It is, however, interesting to note states such as Telangana, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan have deregulated the sector, allowing bike taxis to ply their trade," said Sudha Malhotra, a Delhi-based transportation expert.

This means that the idea of bike sharing and bike taxis is taking off in a big way and as it still falls under the regulatory loophole of transportation, "It definitely isn't an easy job," the transport expert said.

Operating and convincing regulators of the workings and benefits of bike taxis is a continuous process. But there have been shifts and changes since the beginning of this year. "Since the central government has requested the state governments to legalize bike taxis, the task is becoming easier," M.S. Singh, a start-up advisor, said.

Regular commuters, however, swear by the service. For an average working professional who has to negotiate the travails of daily city life, the benefits of ride sharing and time effective travel are immense.

"I have shifted to baxis from my previous rides to work and back home in shared cabs. In the cab which I would normally share with other commuters to save money, I had to travel long distances before reaching my destination. However, baxis have become my daily mode of commute. It is very easy to book a ride, the rides are insured and extremely safe. I have even recommended it to my friends and colleagues," said R. Venkatesh, an engineer.

It is perhaps time that bike taxis were made a standard part of a daily commute keeping in mind the growth of cities in India. The government, experts attest, needs to see that more operators means better service and hindering any innovation means taking the Indian manufacturing industry many steps backwards.By Jane Lin

CHIANG MAI, Thailand, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Wachirawit Secondary School, 12 km north of Chiang Mai City, is set to become the province's first pilot school in energy conservation using the Real Time Power Monitoring System, implemented by Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO).

Funded by EPPO in 2016, Wachirawit School installed a software system called "ERDI," in which researcher and developer Yottana Khunatorn refers to it as "Easy Smart Meter," whereby ERDI meter provides real-time building energy consumption report through LED TV or smart devices.

Yottana, who has been working on alternative energy at Chiang Mai University told Xinhua that ERDI is able to track and analyze energy consumption of the school.

"Ever since we have installed the necessary equipment into the Real Time Power Monitoring System, Wachirawit School had saved 23 percent of electrical usage," said Yottana, "and that amounts to 400,000 baht (12,474 U.S. dollars) of electricity saved in a year."

Patcharavalai, a grade school teacher at Wachirawit School said one of the school's policies is to provide affordable tuition fee to all students so that children from all walks of life will be able to acquire knowledge and a brighter future.

"Wachirawit school is a private school," said Patcharavalai, "We can accommodate up to 700 students, all the way from primary to secondary education. We have been distraught by the ever-increasing prices of electricity in the school; therefore we reached out to the Ministry of Energy two years ago and was granted 1 million baht (31,190 U.S. dollars) by EPPO to invest in Real Time Power Monitoring System."

"Today we are able to access electronic devices without having to worry about surging electrical prices," said Patcharavalai, who has been teaching at Wachirawit School for more than a decade.

EPPO is considering installing Real Time Power Monitoring Systems into 10 more schools scattered in Chiang Mai, in order to being relief to schools in rural areas distraught by high energy costs.TRIPOLI, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The Islamic State (IS) militant group has claimed responsibility for a Saturday attack on a security checkpoint south of the eastern Libyan city of Ajdabiya, which killed a woman and injured five others.

"A number of soldiers of the caliphate raided with various types of weapons at dawn today the police station Al-Gannan south of Ajdabiya, where violent clashes broke out with the infidel forces of (General Khalifa) Haftar," IS media arm A'maq said in a statement on Twitter later on Saturday.

"Soldiers of the caliphate" is an IS term for describing members who carry out terrorist operations.

The security department of Ajdabiya did not reveal any casualties among its members. The IS confirmed a number of security officers were killed and a number of vehicles were burnt in the attack.

Ajdabiya is controlled by the eastern-based army, led by Haftar, which is allied with the eastern authorities.YANGON, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar has achieved a pass rate of 32.82 percent of matriculation examination held nationwide for the 2017-2018 academic year, declining from 2016-2017 academic year when it was registered at 33.89 percent, Myanmar News Agency reported Sunday.

A total of 789,845 students sat for the matriculation exam across the country in the 2017-2018 academic year, of whom 259,191 students passed, according to the exam result released by the Ministry of Education.

In the previous academic year 2016-2017, a total of 716,188 students appeared for the examination, of whom 242,736 passed.

The 2017-2018 academic year's matriculation exam result was signified by the fact that pass rate in conflicted Maungtaw, Rakhine state doubled as compared with the previous year, increasing from 9 percent to 18.12 percent.

A total of 690 students sat for the exam in Maungtaw where there are 110 basic education schools, of whom 125 passed.

Students in Myanmar are set to sit for the matriculation exams before joining universities.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 10:49:23|Editor: Chengcheng

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TRIPOLI, June 3 (Xinhua) -- At least two civilians were killed by air strikes carried out by Libya's eastern-based army targeting the eastern Libyan city of Darna, head of the city council confirmed on Saturday.

"At least two civilians were killed by four air strikes targeting various locations in the city, specifically at the populated western entrance of the city," Awad L'eraj told Xinhua later on Saturday.

"The city is besieged from all directions, as military forces are trying to break into it without taking into account the civilians and the losses they would suffer by the continuous air strikes and shelling," L'eraj said.

He called on international organizations to "lift the siege on Darna and enable entry of medicine and food, as civilians are on the brink of famine."

However, no international organization can provide any aids without prior authorization by Libya's eastern-based army, which is besieging the city, L'eraj added.

The official accused Tripoli-based UN-backed government of "abandoning Darna and its residents", after the government announced it was unable to provide any aids for the city due to the military action.

The UN Support Mission in Libya on Friday said that at least 17 civilians had been killed and 22 others wounded in Darna over the past two weeks, as a result of the fighting between the army and militants.

The mission also confirmed that some 125,000 people in Darna were suffering power blackouts and water shortage, appealing to all parties in Darna to "allow unfettered and safe access" by humanitarian workers.

The eastern-based army, led by General Khalifa Haftar, has been besieging Darna since 2015 and demanding the armed group of the Shura Council of Mujahideen of Darna leave the city. The army accuses the group of being loyal to al-Qaida.UNITED NATIONS, June 2 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday expressed concern over the violent clashes in Mali's capital city Bamako sparked by the holding of demonstrations by opposition parties, said his deputy spokesman.

Guterres called for calm and restraint by all parties, and urged political actors and the civil society to favor dialogue in order to maintain an environment conducive to the holding of credible and transparent elections, said Farhan Haq in a statement.

The secretary-general regretted the government-imposed ban on demonstrations by opposition parties. He said it is important to hold an inclusive political dialogue in Mali and called on the Malian government to ensure the protection of fundamental human rights and freedom of expression, said the statement.

The secretary-general was encouraged during his recent visit to Mali by the progress registered in the implementation of the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation. He wished for this positive dynamic to continue with the holding of elections in a peaceful climate, it said.

The United Nations stands ready to support a peaceful resolution of the parties' grievances, the statement added.

More than a dozen people were injured Saturday when police clashed with opposition demonstrators at a banned political rally in Bamako, ahead of the July 29 presidential election in the African country.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 11:59:31|Editor: ZD

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CARACAS, June 2 (Xinhua) -- A top Venezuelan lawmaker on Saturday called on pardoned prisoners to renounce violence and commit to peaceful means in political protests.

Delcy Rodriguez, who is both the president of Venezuela's National Constituent Assembly (ANC) and head of the truth commission that reviewed the prisoners' cases, made the remarks while addressing the second group of 40 inmates pardoned for their violent acts in mass political gatherings.

The first group of 39 prisoners serving jail terms for politically-motivated violent crimes were released on Friday.

"We need you to express commitment and willingness to permanently renounce political violence, to permanently renounce hate and intolerance," Rodriguez said.

"We Venezuelans need to settle our differences through peaceful, democratic and constitutional means," she added.

The prisoners had been tried and convicted following a wave of violent anti-government protests in the past few years that left scores dead and hundreds injured.

Rodriguez mentioned one particularly tragic incident in which a supporter of the government was burnt alive.

Venezuela saw weeks of violent anti-government protests since April 2017 after the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) announced the decision to set up a constitutional assembly, which the opposition claimed was a scheme to marginalize the opposition-controlled parliament.

Violent clashes during these protests killed scores of people and injured more, and resulted in the imprisonment of many.

Sworn in for a second term in May, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro proposed a pardon for political protesters serving jail sentences for violence.

One of the top priorities for his second term is to promote dialogue and reconciliation between the ruling party and its political opponents.File photo taken on Dec. 22, 2017 shows people visit a model of the first phase of the high-speed railway linking Bangkok with Nakhon Ratchasima province in Pak Chong, Thailand. (Xinhua/Li Mangmang)

BANGKOK, June 2 (Xinhua) -- The construction of a Thai-Chinese high-speed rail between Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima in northeastern Thailand is expected to get fully started early next year, following biddings later this year, said Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith on Friday.

Arkhom, who co-chaired the 24th meeting of the Joint Committee on Thailand-China Cooperation on Rail Project with Ning Jizhe, deputy head of China's National Development and Reform Commission, said the construction of the main sections of the first phase of the high-speed rail from Bangkok to northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima will start in March next year.

The entire 253-km route between Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima is divided into 14 sections, two of which are considered minor sections located in the northeastern province, including an initial 3.5-km-long section currently under construction between Klang Dong and Pang Asok stations, which started late last year.

Of the 12 main sections, six sections will be open to biddings in September this year, followed by the construction scheduled to begin in March next year, whereas the other six sections will be open to biddings in November this year, followed by the construction to begin in April next year, according to the transport minister.

Meanwhile, the 350-km high-speed rail between Nakhon Ratchasima and Nong Khai, which is facing the Lao capital Vientiane across Mekong River, will be implemented by Thailand with China acting as consultants in terms of feasibility study and design, Arkhom said.

The feasibility study and design are scheduled to be finished within this year so that the construction will begin next year, the minister noted, adding that they will work hard to make both phases, or the whole high-speed rail from Bangkok to Nong Khai, operational at the same time.

Another bridge across Mekong River will be built to accommodate the high-speed railway, which is designed to link southern China with Thailand through Laos.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 12:49:38|Editor: Liu

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BEIJING, June 3 (Xinhua) -- China will wage a three-month campaign against bad tourism practices during the summer.

A priority of operation "Sharp Sword," will be occurrences overseas, in border areas and on day trips, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Unreasonably low priced trips and illegal tour services will be targeted.

China's summer season usually lasts from July to August.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 13:09:42|Editor: Lu Hui

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Delegates attend the plenary sessions of the 17th Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore, on June 2, 2018. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey)

by Xinhua writers Dan Ran, Wang Lili

SINGAPORE, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Military officials, diplomats and experts from across the Asia-Pacific gathered in Singapore over the weekend for the 17th Asia Security Summit, commonly known as the Shangri-La Dialogue, discussing security challenges and cooperation prospects in the region.

This year's dialogue took place while the Asia-Pacific is witnessing a series of positive geopolitical changes, including a detente on the Korean Peninsula, improved ties between some major countries, and enhanced efforts to settle regional disputes.

In maintaining regional peace and security, observers say, China has played a crucial role by upholding its concept of a comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security.

URGE DIALOGUE ON KOREAN PENINSULA

Experts praised China's strong support for the detente on the Korean Peninsula that paved the way for an upcoming direct meeting between the top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump.

In its effort to achieve denuclearization and peace on the peninsula, China proposed a dual-track approach, which advocates dialogue and consultation towards a political solution and stresses the need for Pyongyang and Washington to meet each other halfway.

Harsh rhetoric and confrontation have complicated the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, Lt. Gen. He Lei, vice president of the Academy of Military Science of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) and head of the Chinese delegation to the Shangri-la Dialogue, said in his speech on Saturday.

"What relevant parties are doing to ease tensions on the Peninsula is actually in line with China's proposals," Ruan Zongze, deputy head and senior fellow at the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS), commented ahead of the Shangri-la Dialogue, noting that China had long urged direct dialogue and consultation between Pyongyang and Washington.

The recent remarks by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying reaffirmed China's support for efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula while stressing the need to heed Pyongyang's security concerns in the process.

"When you can take into consideration each other's concerns, it becomes much easier to find a solution to the problem," Chen Gang, a senior research fellow with the East Asian Institute at the National University of Singapore, told Xinhua.

STRONGER TIES FOR REGIONAL STABILITY

China's security vision for the Asia-Pacific is simple: major countries that get along will boost peace, stability and economic development.Beijing has long pursued building partnerships across the region.

In April, China and India pledged to open a new chapter in bilateral ties, with an informal summit held in central China between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The leaders of the world's two largest developing countries reached a consensus on issues of major concern.

"The great cooperation between our two great countries can influence the world," Xi said during the meeting, and Modi said the meeting was of historic significance.

In his keynote speech at the Shangri-la Dialogue on Friday, Modi said "strong and stable" India-China relations are an important factor for global peace and progress.

"I firmly believe that Asia and the world will have a better future, when India and China work together in trust and confidence, sensitive to each other's interests," Modi said.

The two neighbors refrained from a border tension last year. "Both sides are willing to view bilateral ties from a strategic and long-term perspective, without being hindered by differences and disputes, and join hands to safeguard regional stability," Liu Lin, associate research fellow with the War Studies College of the PLA Academy of Military Science, told Xinhua on the sidelines of the Shangri-la Dialogue.

In another move to promote friendly ties, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang visited Japan in May, the first by a Chinese premier to the country in eight years. The visit succeeded in consolidating political mutual trust and exploring new cooperation potential between the two neighbors.

Being marked by Li's visit, bilateral ties are now back on the right track after the ups and downs of the past.

Ruan of CIIS said that the development of China-Japan ties will contribute to a more integrated Asia at large.

Chen praised China's recent diplomatic achievements, saying that Beijing's concept of security is "in distinct contrast to the out-of-date views of security such as possessing a Cold War mentality and taking a zero-sum approach" to conflict and provides a fresh vision for the region.

MANAGING DISPUTES

During discussions on the Shangri-la Dialogue, participants from some Western countries once again tried to create tensions in the South China Sea, issuing false statements about the so-called militarization of islands in the Sea by China.

The situation of the South China Sea has been stabilized and changing for the better without any major conflict or dispute, thanks to the joint efforts of China and related countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), He told Xinhua on the sidelines of the Shangri-la Dialogue.

In November, Chinese and ASEAN leaders agreed to start consultations on the text of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, setting a new starting point for building a peaceful and prosperous sea together.

Efforts are also being made to address the East China Sea issue. During Premier Li's visit to Japan in May, the two sides signed several cooperation documents including a Memorandum of Understanding on setting up a maritime and air liaison mechanism.

It is worth noting that during the visit, Beijing and Tokyo managed to set aside their differences on the East China Sea and instead focus on cooperation, said Richard Hu, head of the Department of Politics and Public Administration of the University of Hong Kong.

"The (maritime and air) liaison mechanism is very important for managing disputes on the East China Sea and preventing accidental clashes," he said.

But for China, the ultimate solution for regional security challenges lies not only in dialogue, but more importantly in the common development of all nations.

In this regard, China has put forward and promoted the Belt and Road Initiative to join hands with all participating countries -- including those in the Asia-Pacific -- to work towards connectivity, growth and prosperity.

The Belt and Road Initiative "is not only a path of development but also a path of peace," He said in a speech on Saturday.

"When a country is committed to economic development, it has no reason to get involved in conflicts," said Chen.

In this sense, the Belt and Road Initiative serves as a "stabilizer" for the region, as it focuses on trade and economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, driving regional ties to develop in a positive direction, he said.

(Xinhua reporters Li Xiaoyu in Singapore, Xie Meihua, Zhan Yan in Hong Kong, and Hao Yalin in Sydney also contributed to the report.)

(Video editors: Lin Ning, Zhou Jinming, Zhao Yuchao)Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 13:44:48|Editor: ZD

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BEIJING, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Morgan Stanley is seeking a stronger presence in China due to wider opening in financial sector and a growing middle income group.

"Morgan Stanley is very focused on the Chinese market which has been a very stable and important part of our global franchise," James Gorman, chairman and CEO of the New York-based investment bank, said during its three-day event that ended Friday.

Gorman said the bank wants to increase its stake in joint venture Morgan Stanley Huaxin Securities to 51 percent from the current 49 percent and ultimately to a hundred percent.

In April foreign investors were allowed majority ownership of securities firms and many foreign players have applied for a controlling stake of their joint ventures in China.

With more than two decades in China, Morgan Stanley is still expanding from equities to asset management.

"With an economy this large and given the success of a lot of the businesses, there has been significant wealth creation and there are a lot of financial needs for Chinese citizens," Gorman said.

China has the largest middle-class in the world, around 300 million and growing, accounting for 30 percent of the world's total. Morgan Stanley expects China to gain high-income status by as early as 2025.

"Over time we would definitely look to move to a bigger presence in wealth management within China. That is a logical step for us," Gorman said.

Gorman said the bank will channel more energy into helping new tech firms raise capital, state-owned enterprises reform, and helping Chinese companies to go global.

The Morgan Stanley event attracted more than 1,000 investors looking for opportunities in China and executives from more than 300 Chinese companies.

"It's a major opportunity for us to bring investors from around the world to China to get a better sense of some of the exciting developments taking place here and to meet high quality companies," Gorman said.

Gorman spoke highly of new measures introduced since the beginning of 2018, including lower auto tariffs and fewer restrictions on foreign investment.

"The Chinese government is giving access to investors around the world to participate more in this very fast growing, large economy. That is a positive thing," Gorman said.NEW DELHI, June 3 (Xinhua) -- India Sunday test-fired a long range surface-to-surface intercontinental nuclear capable ballistic missile Agni-5 in its eastern state of Odisha, local media reported.Source: Xinhuanet| 2018-06-03 14:10:04|Editor: ZD

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Rashid Alimov, Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), addresses the opening ceremony of the first SCO media summit in Beijing, capital of China, June 1, 2018. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan)

BEIJING, June 3 (Xinhuanet) -- Officials and media representatives acclaimed that the Shanghai Spirit plays a significant role in promoting cooperation among the SCO member states as well as other countries, especially during a time when the world is faced with multiple challenges.

They made the acclaim to Xinhuanet on the sidelines of the first Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) media summit held Friday in Beijing.

The "Shanghai Spirit" features mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for cultural diversity, and pursuit of common development.

SHANGHAI SPIRIT WIDELY ACCEPTED

Ainura Temirbekova, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of the Kyrgyz Republic, said the pursuit of the Shanghai Spirit is not just confined to important statements, but proved by deeds.

She said China has made concrete contributions, and the cooperation between SCO countries on the global stage is the only pathway to a shared future.

Dmitrii Lukiantsev, Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the Secretariat of the SCO, said the organization sets a good example for building a new type of international relations and the Shanghai Spirit is of great relevance today.

SHANGHAI SPIRIT CONNECTS COUNTRIES

Combating the three evil forces of terrorism, separatism and extremism is still one of the major tasks of the SCO.

While addressing the opening ceremony, SCO Secretary General Rashid Alimov noted that the world is faced with very complicated, continuous and untraditional threats, and he called for joint efforts to build a type of comprehensive, equal, and constructive cooperation.

Temirbekova of Kyrgyzstan echoed, saying the Shanghai Spirit connects countries together and makes the group stronger when facing such challenges.

Priyanka Tikoo, Deputy Executive Editor of Press Trust of India, said the Shanghai Spirit is good for countries and the region, especially in today when there are many challenges, as they can cooperate more in the bilateral programs together and achieve much more.

MEDIAS ROLE IN PROMOTING SHANGHAI SPIRIT

Carrying on the 'Shanghai Spirit' and ushering a new era for media cooperation is the theme of this years SCO media summit.

Noting that, Temirbekova urged the media to follow the Shanghai Spirit to build a community with a shared future for the region.

Sarmad Ali, Managing Director of the Jang Media Group, highly praised the medias role to promote not only the Shanghai Spirit but also possibility and inclusiveness in this world which is ridden with various negativity and in the world of fake news.

I think it is very important that media should get together, should create such platform so we can fight the menace of fake news, fight the menace of disunity, and disparity that are growing around us, he added.

Speaking of the media summit itself, Ali said it provides a platform for the media outlets and organizations in SCO countries, so that they could cooperate with each other and create a positive and inclusive environment among us nations.

The summit is hosted by the Information Office of the State Council of China and attracted over 260 attendees, including officials and representatives of media outlets.TALUQAN, Afghanistan, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Nine militants were killed and five others injured as a clash erupted between security forces and Taliban in Khawja Ghar district of northern Afghanistan's Takhar province on Sunday, provincial police spokesman Abdul Khalil Asir said.

The clash started early Sunday and government forces also captured three more insurgents alive during the engagement, the official said.

Without providing details on the possible casualties of security forces, the official asserted that the government forces would continue to target the enemies in the restive province.

Taliban militants who are active in parts of Takhar province haven't commented.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 14:29:52|Editor: ZD

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MEXICO CITY, June 2 (Xinhua) -- A federal judge on Saturday charged the wife of the leader of Mexico's powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel with money laundering, authorities said.

Rosalinda Gonzalez Valencia was charged with establishing companies for an explicit purpose of laundering money for the cartel headed by her husband, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes.

After a 12-hour hearing, Judge Ivan Zeferin ruled that prosecutors had presented sufficient evidence to show Gonzalez created companies and then dissolved them to obscure the paper trail.

Gonzalez's companies have been included in a blacklist compiled by the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control, due to those companies' link to the cartel.

Mexico's Center for Investigation and National Security (CISEN) was also aware that her companies were linked to the cartel's illicit operations.

Mexican authorities arrested Gonzalez last Saturday in Guadalajara, capital of western Jalisco state as well as Mexico's second-largest city, after a judge issued a warrant for her arrest.

Local media said her network of companies laundered some 1.1 billion pesos (54.9 million U.S. dollars) in 2015 and 2016.

Prosecutors also wanted to charge Gonzalez with organized crime, but during a closed-door hearing, she denied being a member of the cartel.

After the hearing in central Mexico State, Gonzalez was flown by helicopter to a federal women's prison in central Morelos state, where she will remain while undergoing trial.

Today, the Jalisco-based cartel is considered the most powerful in Mexico. Oseguera, a former police officer from a small town in southern Jalisco, is one of Mexico's most-wanted drug lords.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 15:33:16|Editor: ZX

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Photo taken on June 1, 2018 shows some of the evidences seized in the operation "The Wall" in Madrid, Spain. The Spanish National Police on Friday held a ceremony to transfer the evidences seized in the operation "The Wall" to China. Police force from China and Spain carried out a joint anti-fraud operation called "The Wall" in late 2016. (Xinhua/Guo Qiuda)Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 15:45:06|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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JERUSALEM, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Israel struck Hamas sites in the Gaza Strip on Sunday before dawn after Gazan militants fired rockets at Israel, the Israeli army said, breaking a three-day de facto ceasefire.

An Israeli military spokesperson said that some four projectiles were fired at southern Israel overnight, with three of them intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome anti-rocket system.

The spokesperson said that in retaliation, Israeli fighter jets hit 10 sites in three military compounds belonging to Hamas, the Islamist Palestinian organization that runs the besieged enclave.

Later, Israeli aircraft carried out additional airstrikes in southern Gaza, striking five targets at a compound belonging to Hamas' naval force, the spokesperson said.

The Israeli military said in a statement that the "IDF (Israel Defense Forces) views the Hamas terror organization's actions with great severity and will continue fulfilling its mission to protect Israeli civilians as necessary."

There were no immediate reports of casualties on both sides.

Israel and militant organizations in Gaza reached a de facto ceasefire last week, after a flare-up during which dozens of mortars and rockets were fired at southern Israel and Israel pounded Gaza with dozens of airstrikes.

The violence was part of a serious escalation in the border area between Gaza and Israel over the past months. Palestinian protests, which started as the Great March of Return on March 30 demanding Palestinian refugees' right to return home, escalated after the relocation of the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. At least 121 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in clashes with Israeli forces.ADEN, Yemen, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Foreign nationals working in Yemen's western port city of Hodeidah left after internal fighting escalated there on Sunday, a military official told Xinhua.

"All foreign workers, over 200 of different nationalities, have left Hodeidah as the fierce battles raging over the control of the city intensified with aerial and naval bombing during the past days," the local military official said on condition of anonymity.

"The foreign workers mostly from Arab and other countries left Hodeidah for fear of their lives as they may be exploited or used as human shields by the Houthi rebels," the local source said.

Several employees and workers of international humanitarian organizations left Hodeidah also, according to the official.

Yemen's state television station based in Saudi Arabia's capital of Riyadh confirmed that "about 200 foreigners were evacuated via a vessel from Hodeidah's port."

The Saudi-led coalition has been fighting the Iranian-allied Houthi rebels since March 2015. More than 10,000 people, mostly civilians, were killed in the war that displaced over 3 million and pushed the impoverished country into the brink of famine.

The anti-Houthi Arab coalition has sent hundreds of troops to the Yemeni western coast in preparation for the advancement into Houthi-held Hodeidah, a long-time key military target declared by the coalition.

The Yemeni forces backed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates continued in making ground advancement during the battles with Houthis on Yemen's west coast near Hodeidah airport.

Hodeidah is a vital lifeline for the delivery of humanitarian supplies to the Houthi-controlled northern provinces, including the country's capital Sanaa.LONDON, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Britain on Sunday marked the one year anniversary of the deadly London Bridge terrorist attack as the country's prime minister vowed to fight terrorism.

A service remembering the victims will be held at Southwark Cathedral and a national minute's silence to commemorate the victims will also be observed.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said Britain's determination to overcome the threat of terrorism "has never been stronger."

"Today we remember those who died in the London Bridge attack and the many more who were injured, as we pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened and came to the aid of others," May said on her official Twitter account.

Eight people died when three men drove into pedestrians on London Bridge and then stabbed people in Borough Market.

The observation came as the Home Office has said the country faces a severe threat from Islamist terrorism for at least another two years.

The government is preparing to unveil a strengthened counter-terrorism strategy on Monday.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 16:30:16|Editor: ZX

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LHASA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Southwest China's Tibet has seen dramatic growth in tourism revenue in the first five months this year.

From January to May, Tibet welcomed 5.6 million tourists, up 38 percent from a year ago. Total revenue also rose 41.4 percent to 7.1 billion yuan (about 1.1 billion U.S. dollars), according to the regional Tourism Development Commission Sunday.

Tourism had been slack in winter in Tibet due to bad weather. In January this year, the regional government came up with discounts, charter flights and train services to attract more domestic and overseas tourists.

The market in May grew rapidly, with the number of tourists hitting 2.9 million, up 20.7 percent year on year.

The local government will continue some of the winter incentives until June.LUANDA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The Angolan government will work with the Spanish government to strengthen cooperation and friendship between the two countries and their peoples, Angola's president said Saturday.

Angolan President Joao Lourenco said this in a congratulatory message to Pedro Sanchez, on his recent appointment as the Spanish prime minister.

Lourenco congratulated Sanchez on being nominated prime minister of Spain, and wished him a lot of success in his new position, according to a document from the president's Civil Office.

Sanchez, leader of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), has become the Spanish prime minister following Friday's non-confidence vote that ousted incumbent Mariano Rajoy of the conservative Popular Party.

Sanchez won the vote, which took place at the Spanish Congress of Deputies, by 180 votes. In the 350-seat lower house, 169 lawmakers voted against the motion and one abstained.COLOMBO, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's Tourism Minister John Amaratunga recently held talks with China's tourism and airline officials to encourage more Chinese visitors to the country, local media reported Sunday.

The talks were held during the Minister's visit to Shanghai to promote Sri Lankan Tourism at the Shanghai World Travel Fair, the Tourism Ministry said in a statement.

A series of promotional events and meetings were conducted across major cities in China during the course of the past week, according to the statement.

China has emerged as one of the leading markets for Sri Lanka's tourism in recent years, with Colombo aiming for at least 1 million Chinese tourists per year by 2020.

According to Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, nearly 100,000 Chinese tourists have visited Sri Lanka till April this year, making China among the three top source countries of international tourists to the island country.File photo shows camels and tourists in Ethiopia's desiccated Afar region. (Xinhua/Lyu Shuai)

ADDIS ABABA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Landlocked Ethiopia is to establish a naval force more than two decades after it was disbanded, state media Radio Fana has said.

The announcement was made by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during a meeting with officials from the Ethiopia National Defense Force, said the Radio Fana report.

However, the announcement did not specify where the navy would be based or when it would be established.

Ethiopia had a navy up to the early 1990s, when the independence of Eritrea left Ethiopia landlocked and prompted the Ethiopian government to disband the navy.JALALABAD, Afghanistan, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Afghan security forces waged an operation and killed nine militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) in eastern province of Nangarhar on Sunday, authorities said.

The operation was launched in the restive Hasaka Mina district of the province, resulting in the death of nine fighters and eliminating their command and control center in which heavy and light arms and ammunition have been stocked, the provincial the provincial government said in a statement.

Government forces and civilians were not hurt in the incident, the statement confirmed.

The IS militants does not usually comment on the reports about their casualties.

The mountainous province, 120 km east of Kabul, has been the scene of clashes between security forces and IS militants from time to time.A lie detector is shown at an exhibition of police equipments in Beijing, Aug. 10, 2011. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

NAIROBI, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Kenyans are divided on an announcement by President Uhuru Kenyatta that the government will subject all its procurement and accounting officers to lie detection test to curb spiraling corruption.

Kenyatta on Friday announced that all the officers would be subjected to the polygraph test by June 30 as his government works to curb corruption that has rocked his administration.

Officials in five public institutions are currently being investigated for corruption scandals.

The institutions are National Youth Service (NYS), Kenya Pipeline, Kenya Power, National Cereals and Produce Board and the Youth Fund.

Some 40 suspects linked to the theft of 90 million U.S. dollars at the NYS were this week arrested and charged in court with the crime.

A furious Kenyatta used the Independence Day celebrations on Friday to announce the new measure by his government to tackle graft.

"All heads of procurement and accounts in government ministries, departments, agencies and parastatals will be vetted afresh, including taking a polygraph test, to determine their integrity and suitability," said Kenyatta.

Some Kenyans believe the radical step would eliminate the vice but others are cynical, noting that is another scheme to wane public anger but would yield little results.

"Lie detection test is out of this world and would be a first in Kenya. I really support it. Any move that would help fight corruption in Kenya is welcome," Joseph Kimenyi, a public transport vehicle (matatu) driver, said Saturday.

Kimenyi suggested that the test should be extended to the traffic police department, which has been ranked the most corrupt institution in Kenya for ages.

"In fact, they should start with the police. As matatu operators, we lose a lot of money to the officers and this has become a way of life. This should stop," he said.

Georgina Musavi, a salonist was hopeful that the lie detection test would eliminate corrupt people in government and allow the employment of honest persons.

However, critics say a lie detection test is the last thing that Kenyans need to fight corruption.

"What Kenya needs to fight corruption is political goodwill not lie detectors. Kenya is gripped in corruption because the political class is benefiting from it and has allowed it," said Dismas Okoth, a youth leader in Kayole on the East of Nairobi.

Okoth said if government was keen on fighting corruption, Kenyatta would have ordered for the incarceration of all people linked to graft, including his close allies.

"So many people including top politicians and government officials have been named in graft scandals but they continue to serve. Are they going to take a lie detection test?" He posed, noting the best way to fight corruption is to start from the top.

On social media, Kenyans have debated the pros and cons of the lie detection test that the government has said is urgent.

"One big flaw of polygraph testing is the fact an honest person may be nervous and a dishonest person may be non-anxious. You can fool a lie detector test with just one simple movement and get away with it," said Kinyan Boy on Twitter.

Analysts noted the announcement of the test had caught the country by surprise.

"It is radical. It is innovative but citizens' chances of eliminating corruption with the gadgets are fifty-fifty. Corruption is so rooted in Kenya that a polygraph test is part of the solution but not the cure of the menace," said Ernest Manuyo, a business management lecturer in Nairobi.

Manuyo observed that to eliminate corruption, Kenyans first need to have a sense of nationhood so that they can see graft as a threat to their country and existence.

"Currently, people seek services from government offices expecting to bribe. This is what public officials exploit. Though I welcome the detector, we need a major culture shift as Kenyans to eliminate graft," he said.LONDON, June 3 (Xinhua) -- There were more than six times as many students from London taking up places to study medicine and dentistry last year as there were from northeast England, a report said.

The figures came as the British government and the profession push to expand the workforce, through measures such as opening new medical schools.

Press Association analysis of Ucas data showed that only 245 students from the northeast took up places to study for medicine and dentistry degrees last year, compared with 1,585 from London.

These were the two regions accounting for the highest and lowest proportion of acceptances for the subject area.

Across all subject areas, five times as many students from London as from the northeast took up places on any degree course.

The analysis shows that in general just over one in five (21 percent) of all students taking up degree places last autumn were from the capital, while just 4 percent were from the northeast.

While some of this can be put down to variations in the population -- London has around three times as many adults as the northeast -- the difference is markedly larger in some subject areas.

Some of the biggest disparities come in subjects that are likely to lead to high-flying careers, including medicine and dentistry, business and mathematical sciences.

Concerns have been raised in some quarters about opportunities for young people living in parts of the north of England. One charity said the data painted a "worrying picture of a consistent and pervasive regional divide" in university access.

A spokeswoman for the British Department of Health said, "Whilst the population in London means there will inevitably be a higher number of medical students, with our biggest-ever expansion to medical training places, 90 percent of new students will be based outside of London and almost a third in the north of England, supported by five brand new medical schools."

"The expansion also targets applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds to widen access to medicine and ensure even more talented students have the chance to become the NHS doctors of the future," she added.by Alessandra Cardone

ROME, June 3 (Xinhua) -- In the amazing setting offered by Renaissance Palace of the Chancellery in the Italian capital on May 31, a large audience awaited a jury's response.

Nine entrepreneurs mingled with it, some smiling nervously.

They were the finalists of the tenth edition of the MoneyGram Foreign Entrepreneur Awards 2018, Italy's only national contest specifically recognizing achievements of foreign-run firms.

The nine competed for single prizes in three different categories -- Innovation, Business Growth, and Young Entrepreneur -- and for the major Award as Best Foreign Entrepreneur of the Year.

They had at least two things in common: an immigrant background, and the efforts they made to find a job, start a business, and eventually contribute to the wealth of their adopted country.

Dong Lifang -- 41-year-old lawyer, born in China and grown up in Italy -- was among them.

With her eight colleagues attending the ceremony, she provided an example of what foreign-born Italians and second-generation immigrants were able to reach in a country that has struggled to emerge from a deep recession in recent years.

"The global economic crisis has brought about a change in our (Rome-based) legal firm, driving us toward a stronger internationalization," Dong told the audience.

Their legal activity focuses on assisting Asian firms investing in Europe, and vice versa, across all industrial and commercial sectors.

"We work as a multi-cultural bridge, and especially between Europe and Asia," she added.

The Italian-Chinese lawyer was awarded the prize in Innovation category on Thursday, along with ice-cream maker Erion Kaso from Albania in Business Growth, and Romanian artisan carpenter Ionut Giurgi as Youth Entrepreneur.

Best Foreign Entrepreneur of 2018 was named Marie Terese Mukamitsindo from Rwanda, founder of Karubu Social Cooperative assisting asylum seekers and refugees to integrate and refine their professional skills.

Italy counted some 2.4 million migrant workers and 570,000 firms run by immigrants in 2016, according to the Leone Moressa Foundation's annual report on the economy of immigration.

DIFFERENCE BRINGS ABOUT INNOVATION

Migrant-run firms alone made 9.4 percent of all businesses in the country that year, and contributed 102 billion euros (119 billion U.S. dollars), which represented about 6.9 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP).

Between 2011 and 2016, during the worst period of the crisis, enterprises run by foreigners increased by 22 percent, the report also stated.

In the same period, those run by Italians dropped by 2.7 percent.

According to Dong, the cross-cultural background and the determination to succeed despite adverse conditions were two major strongpoints that enabled foreign entrepreneurs to endure hardship and even helped Italy overcome it.

"The difference we bring as foreign-born entrepreneurs into Italy's society is a value added, because the country is facing a process of fast change," Dong told Xinhua. "I believe so, because difference often brings about innovation, and innovation generate a social, cultural, and economic growth."

Since its inception in 2009 and up to the 2017 edition, the MoneyGram Foreign Entrepreneur Awards involved some 1,600 businesspeople, according to a MoneyGram report.

"In Rome alone, over 50,000 immigrant enterprises employ more than 35,000 Italians and almost 97,000 migrants," the report stated, citing data by research center Eurispes and the Chamber of Commerce of Rome.

Considering this, MoneyGram's Head of Europe Micheal Schuetze explained the major goal of the awards was not so much singling out the "best" of entrepreneurs, as acknowledging the overall contribution "given by migrants to our economy and social welfare."

Finally, businesses run by immigrants would boost the internationalization process of the Italian economy, according to other officials.

"In ten years, we have seen the average sales volume of firms increase," president of the jury Massimo Canovi told Xinhua.

Most firms involved in the first editions had very small turnover "in the order of few tens of thousands euros," he explained, while now several were middle-sized companies with a business volume of millions.

"That means many have strengthened, and some have started to develop abroad, especially in the countries where their owners come from," Canovi stressed.KABUL, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Around 50 percent of Afghan children, making 3.7 million between the ages of 7 to 17 years old, have been reported to be out of school, UNICEF, or the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund said on Sunday.

"The ongoing conflict and worsening security situation across the country, combined with deeply engrained poverty and discrimination against girls, have pushed the rate of out-of-school children up for the first time since 2002 levels," the organization's Afghanistan Country Study said in the statement.

Girls make 60 percent of the out-of-school population, putting them at a particular disadvantage, and compounding gender-based discrimination, the statement noted.

The report added that the number of girls not going to school in the worst-affected provinces, such as Kandahar, Helmand, Wardak, Paktika, Zabul and Uruzgan, reaches to 85 percent.

It noted that displacement and child marriage also significantly affect a child's chances of going to school. A shortage of female teachers, poor school facilities and insecurity affecting the delivery of education in conflict-affected areas, are also factors driving children, particularly girls, away from the classroom.

"We commend the Government of Afghanistan for prioritizing and declaring the year 2018 as the year of education," Adele Khodr, UNICEF representative in Afghanistan, said in the statement.

"Now is the time for a renewed commitment to provide girls and boys with the relevant learning opportunities they need to progress in life and to play a positive role in society," she added.

More than 9.5 million Afghan children, with around 40 percent of them girls, attend 15,000 schools across the country now, according to education officials.Photo sourced from Dublin Airport shows Cathay Pacific cabin crew members at the launch of the first direct flight from Dublin to Hong Kong at Dublin Airport, Dublin, Ireland, June 2, 2018. The first direct Hong Kong-Dublin flight service was launched here on Saturday.

DUBLIN, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The direct flight service between China's Hong Kong and Ireland's Dublin was launched on Saturday as an Airbus A350-900 of Cathay Pacific departing from Hong Kong safely landed at Dublin Airport earlier in the day.

This is the first direct flight service between Hong Kong and Dublin, and also the first direct flight route ever launched between China and Ireland.

This is a historic and momentous day for Dublin Airport and also a major milestone for the entire Irish economy, said Dublin Airport Managing Director Vincent Harrison.

According to Harrison, trade between Ireland and China is worth more than 8 billion euros (9.3 billion U.S. dollars) per annum, and almost 100 Irish firms have operations in China. Currently, there are an estimated 4,000 Irish people living in Hong Kong and the number of the people travelling between Hong Kong and Dublin stands at about 40,000 a year.

"I have no doubt this new route will be popular for business and leisure travellers. We will work closely with Cathay Pacific to market the new route," said Harrison.

The direct flight service is operated by Cathay Pacific on a four-times-a-week basis.

Cathay Pacific is a Hong Kong-based airline with a fleet of 144 aircraft, offering flights to 197 destinations in 48 countries and regions, said a press release of Dublin Airport.

Dublin Airport, the largest airport in Ireland, handles annually about 85 percent of the total flight passengers in the country, according to the airport's 2017 statistics.ISLAMABAD, June 3 (Xinhua) -- At least six militants were killed and several others injured as Pakistani forces retaliated cross-border attacks by militants from the Afghan side on Sunday, the Pakistani army said in a statement here.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistan army, said that the militants attacked Pakistani security personnel who were busy in border fencing in the country' southwest Balochistan and northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.

"Taking advantage of ungoverned spaces and facilitation inside Afghanistan, terrorists resorting to such attacks to prevent fencing and construction of border posts," said the statement.

Five soldiers including four from paramilitary troops Frontier Corps and one from Pakistan air force sustained injuries in the attack, the statement added.

Identities of the killed militants were not revealed.

Pakistan is investing heavily to construct a chain-link fence at its over 2,000-km-long border with Afghanistan, in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces to restrict the penetration of militants into Pakistani territory from Afghanistan.

The ISPR said that to consolidate the gains of successful kinetic operations against terrorism by the country's military, fencing of Pakistan-Afghanistan border and construction of border forts will continue irrespective of the challenges posed by inimical forces.ROME, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Saturday in the Italian capital began with a colorful display of unity and military might and ended with a major political celebration in one of Rome's most historic squares, as the country looked to put nearly three months of difficult and often acrimonious political negotiations behind it.

On Friday, Italy installed its first populist government under Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, a law professor. The new government sparked fears across the European Union (EU) that Italy could put the future of the 19-nation euro zone into doubt, call for more flexibility on European budget rules, and otherwise seek to keep a distance from an increasingly interconnected continent.

Saturday, June 2, was Italy's Republic Day, an anniversary celebrated every year to commemorate the abolition of the Italian monarchy and the creation of the Italian Republic in 1946. This year's celebration included military marches, a parade and fighter planes speeding overhead and leaving green, white and red trails of smoke, the colors of the Italian flag.

Hours later, the Five-Star Movement (M5S), the largest vote getter in Italy's inconclusive March 4 general election and one of the two partners supporting the Conte government, held a massive and vocal rally in Rome's picturesque Piazza Bocca della Verita.

Between the two events, Jean-Claude Juncker, president of the European Commission, gave the new government he had previously criticized a qualified endorsement.

"I prefer to keep calm," Juncker said. "I will not interfere in domestic Italian affairs, even though I have been tempted to do so."

A day earlier, Juncker sparked fierce criticism in Italy by saying the country should stop blaming the EU for its problems, and that the country needed "more work, less corruption, more seriousness." Juncker later apologized for the remark.

On Saturday, Juncker, speaking on German television, was more cautious. "I do not want to feed the accusations spread by populists that we are sitting in Brussels and meddling with Italian affairs," he said. "They will sort it out."

If the M5S rally late Saturday is an indication, the new government will not be shy about standing up to the EU.

Luigi Di Maio, the M5S leader and minister of labor and deputy prime minister in the new government, took the stage at the event twice, and his speeches were peppered with warnings about keeping European powers "from interfering with country's finance ministries," and criticism of what he called the "tyranny of ratings agencies" that judge national economies and rate them based on risk.

Di Maio promised the new government in Italy was just a start, saying that "Change in Europe will start in this square."

Later, Di Maio introduced the eight government ministers who are the M5S members. Leaders of the nationalist League, the other partner in the new government, were not at the rally.

The crowd on hand grew as the evening went on, filling the large piazza and overflowing into nearby streets. Most on hand said they were optimistic about the prospects for the day-old government.

"You have to be hopeful," said Luca Albanese, a 51-year-old municipal worker. "The governments in the past didn't work and it's time we tried something new."

Anna Luisa Donati, 40, a homemaker, agreed. "I didn't vote for the Five-Star Movement but I have grown to like their message," she said. "I am tired of Italy taking commands from other countries. Now we will take our own path."SINGAPORE, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Terrorism has been posing a major threat to world peace and stability in recent years and a comprehensive approach is needed to tackle it considering the new tactics that terrorists are employing.

The above view was widely shared by senior defense officials, diplomats and experts attending discussion sessions of the 17th Shangri-La Dialogue which concluded here on Sunday.

NEW TACTICS EMPLOYED BY TERRORISTS

Citing the recent terror attacks in Indonesia and last year's terror attack in the southern Philippine city Malawi, participants to the discussion panels said terrorism has put on a new face by changing tactics in staging attacks, including recruiting women and children as suicide bombers, driving cars to hit pedestrians and taking advantage of social media networks to promote terrorism, among others.

Indonesia experienced a spate of deadly terror attacks in May, which came days before the start of the holy fasting month of Ramadan.

On May 13, six members from a family, in well-planned and coordinated attacks, detonated bombs in three churches in Surabaya, East Java, killing at least l8 people, including the attackers, and injuring more than 40 others.

On the following day, a family of five on two motorbikes rode to a police checkpoint at Surabaya's police headquarters and detonated bombs, killing four members of the family and injuring four police officers and six civilians as well.

Striking the three churches in Surabaya, the father of a six-member family went after one, his teenage sons went after another, and his wife and two young daughters blew themselves up at the third.

Experts say the London Bridge terror attack last year in which a van was deliberately driven into pedestrians is a new style of attack, with a small scale and easy for deranged individuals to carry out on their own without advanced planning or assistance from an outside group like IS.

COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH CALLED FOR TO DEAL WITH TERRORISM

Participants to the discussion sessions said a comprehensive approach is a must to fight terrorism now, including addressing root causes, enhancing cooperation and coordination, sharing intelligence information, using military forces, reducing poverty among women and children and creating jobs for the young generation, among others.

Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu called for solving root causes of terrorism in Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan, through identifying those who have returned home after fighting together with terrorist groups, following and tracking the funds of terrorists and potential terrorists as well as destroying their networks including social media networks.

Indonesia has recently revised the anti-terrorism bill to include the military's strength in fighting alarming terrorism, the Indonesian defense minister said.

Singaporean Minister for Defense Ng Eng Hen said his country is sparing no efforts in pushing for intelligence and military exchanges against terrorism.

"Singapore has proposed the 'Resilience, Response, and Recovery' framework against terrorism," the minister said.

Singapore is also working hard to beef up intelligence sharing between the countries concerned and will also host a Track 1.5 Counter-Terrorism Symposium in October.

Citing the terrorist attack in southern Philippine city Malawi last year, Delfin Lorenzana, secretary of the National Defense of the Philippines said, "We must develop capabilities against the increasing lethality available to terrorist groups and the tactical advantages offered by the urban setting. The cornerstone to this is having a rapidly deployable combined military force that is trained on urban warfare."

"Special forces with hostage-rescue capabilities will enable us to launch rescue efforts and save more lives," he said.

For her part, German Minister of Defence Ursula von der Leyen said fighting terrorists who use diverse and hybrid means to stage attacks requires a "hybrid defence."

"We must intensely coordinate our national instruments of law enforcement, diplomacy, economy, development policy and the military, and then apply a well-tailored and targeted mix of measures."

Since its launch in 2002 by the British think tank International Institute for Strategic Studies and the Singaporean government, Shangri-La Dialogue has been held annually as an Asian security forum.ZAGREB, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Along with the construction of the Peljesac bridge, Croatia's priorities also include the railway line linking Zagreb and Rijeka and the construction of a highway from Ploce to Dubrovnik, Croatian Minister of Maritime Affairs, Transport and Infrastructure Oleg Butkovic said on Sunday.

The minister told Xinhua that for the construction of the Peljesac bridge, Croatia has chosen a serious contractor, the Chinese consortium led by China Road and Bridge Corporation. "In three years from now, Croatia will have one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe," said Butkovic. The Chinese consortium is in the preparation process before the beginning of the field research.

Now for Croatia, the priorities are the construction of a 100-kilometer highway from Ploce to Dubrovnik. The Croatian minister said the 400 million kuna (63 million U.S. dollars) deal is "open to everyone," including Chinese companies. A tender is expected to be announced by the end of the year for the continuation of works on the construction of the highway.

Croatia also has ambitious plans for reconstruction of the railway sector, and for the most part European Union (EU) funds will be used.

The rebuilding of the 680-million-kuna (107 million U.S. dollars) Vinkovci-Vukovar line and the 614-million-kuna (97 million U.S. dollars) Zapresic-Zabok railroad project have got support of the EU funds. By the end of the year, an EU contract for the construction and reconstruction of the Krizevci-Koprivnica-Hungarian border railway will be signed in the amount of 300 million euros (350 million U.S. dollars) and the World Bank will finance the reconstruction of the line from Podsused to Zagreb.

The project for the construction of the railway line from Zagreb to Rijeka is being prepared. By 2019, a tender for railway sections from Leskovac to Karlovac will be announced and Croatia expects the EU to be involved in project financing.MANILA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte apologized to Kuwait on Sunday for using "harsh" words that triggered a diplomatic spat with the Gulf State.

Duterte, who is in South Korea for a three-day official visit, also bared his plan to visit Kuwait "even just for a few hours" to personally thank the Kuwaiti government for its swift response.

"For the first time, I would say that I was harsh in my language, maybe because that was a result of an emotional outburst, but I'd like to apologize now," Duterte said in his meeting with the Filipino community in Seoul.

He added, "I'm sorry for the language that I was using. I'm very satisfied by the way how you responded to the problems of my country."

Duterte launched a tirade against Kuwait early this year after reports of abuses against Filipino maids reached his office. Some of the abuses resulted in the death of some maids, prompting Duterte to order a deployment ban of Filipino workers there early this year.

The diplomatic row deepened when Philippine Embassy officials rescued distressed Filipino maids in Kuwait and posted a video of the rescue mission that went viral online. Kuwait was angered by the move and recalled its envoy in Manila.

Last month, Duterte ordered the lifting of the total ban after both countries signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that provides "legal protection for Filipino maids in the Gulf State."

"I think I'll go there. I'd like to thank them for understanding us, keeping their faith in us, practically giving all of my demands. I'll go there even for a few hours," Duterte told the Filipino community in Seoul.

There are about 68,000 Filipinos in South Korea, many are skilled workers, while the rest are students, professionals, missionaries, and spouses.

In Seoul, Duterte will meet South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Monday. He is expected to return to Manila on Tuesday.ALGIERS, June 3 (Xinhua) -- An Algerian military airplane deviated from runway on Sunday, injuring at least eight people.

According to TSA news website, the Hercules C 130 military transport aircraft deviated from the runway at Biskra Airport in the province of Biskra, about 450 km south of Algiers.

According to the source, the aircraft was in the landing phase when the accident occurred. A photo in local Dzair News television station showed that the plane broke up in three parts.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 21:16:14|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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GAZA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The Ministry of Health in Gaza warned on Sunday of the deteriorating health situation caused by the significant decrease in medicines and medical supplies in the Gaza Strip.

"The ministry suffers from 50 percent shortage in medicines and medical supplies," director of hospitals at the Ministry of Health in Gaza, Abdul Latif al-Haj, told reporters in Gaza.

He urged the international community, mainly Arab countries, to swiftly send medical convey to Gaza to save the situation that is caused by ongoing anti-Israel protests that left dozens dead and thousands injured in Gaza.

Up to 120 Palestinian protesters have been killed by Israeli fire since the rallies known as the "Great March of Return" started on March 30.

The rallies also caused the injury of some 14,000, of whom 300 suffer from serious wounds.

The protests, which peak every Friday, demand the return of Palestinians refugees, who were forced to leave their cities during the Arab-Israeli war in 1948, as well as lifting the blockade Israel has been imposing on Gaza since 2007.

Al-Haj added that the majority of the wounds were in the lower limbs, stressing that the Israeli forces used explosive bullets.

In May, the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees called on Tuesday the international community to save the deteriorating health sector in Gaza.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East chief Pierre Krahenbuhl told reporters in Gaza that the territory is facing a major human and health care disaster due to the high numbers of injured Palestinians by Israeli fire during the border rallies.

Meanwhile, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced on Thursday that it will send two surgical teams and medical supplies to the Gaza Strip to assist residents affected by the recent violence.

ICRC said the teams, which stay in Gaza for six months, will help Gaza's health system respond to longer-term needs after thousands of residents were recently wounded in violence.Wojciech Lubawski (R1), the Mayor of Kielce, presents the first prize award to Chinese young fashion designer Chen Jing (R2) during the 20th edition of the Off Fashion International Contest For Fashion Designer and Enthusiast in Kielce, southeastern Poland, June. 2, 2018. (Xinhua/Chen Xu)

KIELCE, Poland, June 3 (Xinhua) -- A work by Chinese designer Chen Jing, entitled "Yin and Yang", has won the 20th edition of International Competition for Designers and Fashion Enthusiasts "Off Fashion", held in Kielce, Poland.

According to organizers of the June 1-2 event, more than a hundred of designers qualified for the semifinals of the competition, and out of them, 20 entered the finals, including two students from the Beijing Institute of Fashion, of whom one is Chen Jing.

Chen Jing's work, "Yin and Yang", emerged as the winner, while Polish designers Adrian Krupa and Duet RAD ranked second and third, respectively. A number of additional prizes and awards have been given as well.

In an interview with Xinhua, Chen Jing said that this was her first time to participate in such competition abroad. "The results of the competition encouraged me to come up with better works," she added.

Liao Qing, deputy dean of the Beijing Institute of Fashion, said international design competitions provide students a platform to display their creative design and share experiences, adding that the institute hopes to use such competitions to promote traditional Chinese clothing culture and innovative designs.

The International Competition for Designers and Fashion Enthusiasts in Kielce was initiated in 2007. It focuses on young designers and aims to give them an opportunity to get a good business start.

Among the participants were both professionals and amateurs with a passion for tailoring and designing. The prize-winners are awarded scholarships and given the opportunity to present their collections on prestigious fashion shows.HO CHI MINH CITY, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's Health Ministry has recommended the public some measures to prevent A/H1N1 influenza after 16 people caught the virus from a patient at Ho Chi Minh City's Tu Du Hospital.

Doctors on Friday found a local woman running a high fever accompanied by bodily pain while she was visiting Tu Du Hospital, a major maternity institution in Vietnam, for a surgery in the gynecological department, Vietnam News Agency reported Sunday.

Later on the same day there were 23 cases of patients, their relatives and medical workers at the hospital simultaneously having high temperatures, a running nose and sore throat.

Sixteen of them tested positive for A/H1N1 influenza, an acute respiratory disease.

Over 80 patients suspected of having been exposed to the woman have been isolated for observation.

According to the World Health Organization, the disease can be transmitted by droplets emanating from unprotected coughs and sneezes, hand contamination, and interpersonal encounters in crowded closed spaces.

In a tropical country like Vietnam, the influenza circulates the entire year round, usually reaching several peaks in the rainy season. The A/H1N1 virus causes pernicious respiratory infection.

Therefore, the health ministry advised the public to intensify personal hygiene, wash hands with soap, hide mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and clean rooms.

Vietnam experienced an H1N1 pandemic in 2009, with over 9,000 cases of people contracting the disease and nearly 20 deaths within four months of the year, according to the ministry.(File Photo) Female Palestinian medic Razan Al-Najar works at the scene of clashes at Israel-Gaza border, in the southern Gaza Strip April 1, 2018. (REUTERS)

GAZA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The Ministry of Health in Gaza warned on Sunday of the deteriorating health situation caused by the significant decrease in medicines and medical supplies in the Gaza Strip.

"The ministry suffers from 50 percent shortage in medicines and medical supplies," director of hospitals at the Ministry of Health in Gaza, Abdul Latif al-Haj, told reporters in Gaza.

He urged the international community, mainly Arab countries, to swiftly send medical convey to Gaza to save the situation that is caused by ongoing anti-Israel protests that left dozens dead and thousands injured in Gaza.

Up to 120 Palestinian protesters have been killed by Israeli fire since the rallies known as the "Great March of Return" started on March 30.

The rallies also caused the injury of some 14,000, of whom 300 suffer from serious wounds.

The protests, which peak every Friday, demand the return of Palestinians refugees, who were forced to leave their cities during the Arab-Israeli war in 1948, as well as lifting the blockade Israel has been imposing on Gaza since 2007.

Al-Haj added that the majority of the wounds were in the lower limbs, stressing that the Israeli forces used explosive bullets.

In May, the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees called on Tuesday the international community to save the deteriorating health sector in Gaza.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East chief Pierre Krahenbuhl told reporters in Gaza that the territory is facing a major human and health care disaster due to the high numbers of injured Palestinians by Israeli fire during the border rallies.

Meanwhile, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced on Thursday that it will send two surgical teams and medical supplies to the Gaza Strip to assist residents affected by the recent violence.

ICRC said the teams, which stay in Gaza for six months, will help Gaza's health system respond to longer-term needs after thousands of residents were recently wounded in violence.by Maria Spiliopoulou

ATHENS, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is likely to hold the part of technical advisor in the Greek bailout program, rather than participating with funds, Greek media reported on Sunday.

"IMF will probably assume the role of technical advisor, as there is no time and differences on the debt load between the international organization and the Europeans remain open," Greece's representative at IMF Michalis Psalidopoulos said.

On Saturday, the latest meeting of the so-called Washington Group in Whistler, Canada ended fruitless on the Greek issue, Greek "banking news" financial news portal, noted.

Following the summit of finance ministers and central bank governors of the seven largest industrialized countries (G7), IMF head Christine Lagarde, European Central Bank President Mario Draghi and European finance ministers participating in the G7 group discussed the Greek debt relief prospects an IMF's role in the third Greek bailout since 2010 which ends this August.

In order to participate in the third Greek program, as in the previous bailouts, IMF had insisted from the beginning, in 2015, for more drastic measures to ensure the sustainability of the Greek debt burden in the future.

Athens is also requesting an imminent decision from European creditors on debt relief measures to seal a comprehensive agreement for the post-bailout era preferably by the EU's summit later this June, but there still seems to be no common ground in many issues among lenders, "banking news" noted.

What is almost certain at the moment is that the debt sustainability analysis to be included in the next IMF report for Greece could potentially be more flexible than a debt analysis on which the Fund's financial contribution would depend, Psalidopoulos said.

The improved IMF forecasts for Greece's macroeconomic figures along with the announcement of debt relief measures by the Europeans will lead the Fund to render the debt sustainable in the medium term, he added.

Regardless of the outcome on this topic, Psalidopoulos stressed that no side is talking about the idea of an extension of the Greek program after August 20, 2018.ULAN BATOR, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia launched a hotline service Sunday for foreign visitors to the country that will provide tourist information and help in emergencies.

According to the country's tourism department, the new hotline with the number of (+976) 70108687 will provide information on popular destinations and ongoing events across the country.

Moreover, tourists can call the number to ask for help and instructions when dealing with security issues or to complain about tourism services.

This service is part of efforts to develop Mongolia's tourism in a bid to diversify its mining-dependent economy.

The landlocked East Asian country has declared 2018 as a tourism year.

In the first quarter of 2018, the country saw 705,000 foreign tourists, up 11 percent from the same period last year, according to the National Statistical Office of Mongolia.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 22:41:35|Editor: zh

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A man smells the "Rose of Aphrodite", an ancient scent, during the temporary exhibition "Countless Aspects of Beauty", organised to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, Greece, on June 3, 2018. For the first time, an ancient scent takes its place among the treasure of antiquities next to sculptures of Eros and Aphrodite at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

by Alexia Vlachou

ATHENS, June 3 (Xinhua) -- For the first time, an ancient scent takes its place among the treasure of antiquities next to sculptures of Eros and Aphrodite at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.

The primitive scent of rose revived from antiquity is among the highlights of the temporary exhibition "Countless Aspects of Beauty" to celebrate the museum's 150th anniversary.

Following the methods of ancient Greek perfumers, the scented oil, called the "Rose of Aphrodite", invites the visitors to experience the countless aspects of beauty not only through their sight, but their smell as well.

ANCIENT MYTHS

The world of fragrance takes a distinct place in antiquity. Closely linked to the Greek ancient goddess Aphrodite, perfumes and scented oils are mentioned in ancient myths as an indispensable accessory for gods and mortals when preparing for special appearances.

Greeks also thought that perfume was a gift from the gods, and many perfumes were named after Greek goddesses.

For that reason, the museum collaborated with the Greek natural cosmetics company Korres and their laboratory to create perfumes inspired from information recorded in the ancient sources.

"It was a challenge and an honor as Greeks and scientists, and for our company that work with Greek herbs. It was a magical project," Lena Korres, co-founder of the company that led the research, told Xinhua.

In the journey of experimental archeology, they tried to decode the fragments of information found on Linear B tablets for record keeping during the Mycenaean Period, relating to the ingredients ordered for the palace's perfumers.

"We had our sources. We travelled to different libraries. We found tablets from the Mycenaean palaces, Linear B ideograms, and with the works of Dioskourides and Theophrastos, along with later studies from modern researchers, we compound the elements on how they created the scent in ancient Greece," Korres added.

The Greek scientist and philosopher Theophrastos, considered the father of botany for his works on plants, wrote a book called "De Odoribus", or "Concerning Odours" that delves greatly into the use of fragrance in ancient Greece. Dioskourides, a Greek physician, pharmacologist and botanist, was the author of De Materia Medica (On Medical Material), a five-volume Greek encyclopedia about herbal medicine and related medicinal substances.

COMPONENTS

The journey to antiquity was not an easy one according to Lena Korres.

"The second difficulty we had to deal was to find all the components. We travelled to the Greek islands, to Amorgos island to find nutsedges (cyperus), we collected wild olive oil from Crete, red wine, alkanna root also from another island. We gathered all the components and then went to the lab," she said.

The lab started working on reviving the scents of antiquity, remaining loyal to the methods of ancient perfumers.

"There the procedure we revealed step by step was amazing, because it was a chemical method that is not known in our times, it has not been preserved and we had to recompose it," she explained.

They based on oil formulas referenced in the works of Dioskourides and Theophrastos and later studies focusing on the ancient technique of aromatic oil production.

"We started the infusion of the wild olive oil, we mixed it with nutsedges. Then we flavored the formed oil with rose pedals and colorized it with the root of alkanna," Korres explained.

According to Korres, the final scent is unique, and it takes one back to something primitive and fresh which is the rose.

Besides rose, two more scents will be unveiled and take their place in the museum in the coming months, the coriander and the sage.ALGIERS, June 3 (Xinhua) -- An Algerian military airplane skidded off runway on Sunday in Biskra province, 450 km south of Algiers, injuring at least eight people, Defense Ministry confirmed in a statement.

"While landing, the Hercules C-130 passenger-free military aircraft deviated from Biskra Air Base runway, causing minor injuries to crew members who were immediately provided first aids, in addition to material damage," said the statement.

The source further specified that the Army Chief of Staff ordered an investigation of the accident.

It's the second plane accident within two months. The North African nation witnessed on April 11 the worst air disaster in its history, as Defense Ministry confirmed that the crash of Ilyushin I-76 plane killed all the passengers, including 247 troops and some of their family members as well as 10 crew members.

Several other crashes were reported in Algeria.

In June 2017, a military helicopter crashed in the province of Naama, 700 km southwest of Algiers, leaving one army troop dead.

In May 2017, 3 militaries were killed in the northern province of Tipaza when their helicopter crashed.

In March 2016, 12 troops were killed and two others were injured when their helicopter crashed in southern Reggane.

In April 2015, a helicopter crashed in the southernmost province of Illizi, killing two soldiers.

In November 2014, an air force MIG-25 Foxbat fighter crashed, but the pilot managed to eject himself out of the plane before crashing.

In February 2014, 77 troops were killed when a C-130 Hercules aircraft belonging to the Algerian Air Force crashed in Oum El Bouaghi province, 400 km eastern of Algiers.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 22:51:39|Editor: yan

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AMMAN, June 3 (Xinhua) -- A Jordanian official said on Sunday that a nationwide dialogue will be launched to reach a consensus on the controversial income tax bill.

"The dialogue will include all segments of the society including professional associations and stakeholders from all segments of society," the official told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

Earlier in the day, Jordanian Minister of Finance Omar Malhas told Xinhua that the bill was necessary to boost fiscal reforms and enhance fiscal stability in Jordan.

The law will help improve Jordan's credit rating and reduce its public debt, which represented about 95.3 percent of the GDP by the end of 2017, he said.

Meanwhile, the Council of Professional Associations in Jordan decided to hold a sit-in on Wednesday in protest of the law.

At a meeting with heads of associations on Saturday, Prime Minister Hani Mulki said it was difficult to withdraw the law, which is a fiscal reform required by a 700-million-U.S.-dollar extended fund facility established between Jordan and the International Monetary Fund in 2016.

Nationwide protests took place over the weekend across Jordan, where protesters demanded the resignation of Mulki and dissolution of the Lower House.

The bill mainly aims to improve tax collection, curb tax evasion and boost tax revenues, which are expected to increase by 300 million Jordanian dinars (423 million dollars) annually.

In addition, the proportion of income taxpayers in Jordan is expected to rise from 4.5 percent to 10 percent once the bill is enacted.

The legislation has been resisted by multiple sectors, including professional associations and investors.A drone flown by an Israeli man carries his national flag near the border fence with the Gaza Strip on May 29, 2018. (AFP photo)

JERUSALEM, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military said it launched a large military exercise on Sunday morning and will start another in the evening, amid heightened tensions with the Gaza Strip and Iran.

A military spokesperson said in a statement that both exercises were planned in advance as part of the military's routine training plans to maintain the preparedness and fitness of the forces.

One exercise will be carried out in southern Israel, including the regional council of Lakish, the cities of Kiryat Gat, Ashdod, and Ashkelon, as well as the community of Shomria.

The exercise will last through Wednesday.

"As part of the exercise, a large movement of ground troops, vehicles, air force aircraft and helicopters will be felt," the statement read.

The other exercise, which already began on Sunday morning, is being carried out by the air force, and will continue until Thursday.

The exercise involves all Israel's air force bases, according to the statement.

"As part of the exercise, a large movement of aircraft over the country's skies will be felt, explosions will be heard, and sirens will be activated for training purposes in air force bases and their vicinity," the spokesperson said.

The exercises come amid peak tensions along the security fence separating the Gaza Strip and Israel, where Israel has carried out dozens of airstrikes on Hamas and Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza, while the Gaza militants fired dozens of projectiles at southern Israel.

At least 122 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since March 30, the first day of the ongoing Palestinian "Great March of Return" rally against Israel's crippling blockade since 2007 and the U.S. embassy move to the disputed holy city of Jerusalem.MOSCOW, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Russia and Rwanda are discussing the supplies of air defense systems as part of bilateral military-technical cooperation, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Sunday.

Lavrov made the remarks during a joint press conference following talks with his Rwandan counterpart Louise Mushikiwabo in the African country's capital of Kigali, according to a press release of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

"We have really good cooperation in the military-technical sphere," Lavrov said, recalling that Rwanda is using Russian helicopters, vehicles and small arms.

Last year, Russia and Rwanda set up an intergovernmental commission for military-technical cooperation and held their first meeting in Kigali in 2017.

The second meeting is planned for the autumn of this year in Moscow, Lavrov said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 23:36:51|Editor: yan

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CAIRO, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The Arab League (AL) condemned on Sunday the recent Israeli killing of a Palestinian paramedic rescuing injured people in the Gaza Strip as "a new chapter of Israeli terrorism."

Israeli soldiers shot dead 21-year-old Palestinian paramedic Razan al-Najjar near the border fence in Gaza on Friday while she was treating injured Gaza protesters. Thousands of Palestinians paid farewell to the young volunteer in a massive funeral on Saturday.

"This Israeli crime along with others are new series in the Israeli chapter of terrorism that does not provide protection for medical teams and rescuers, pursues and targets journalists and executes them in cold blood," said the Cairo-based pan-Arab body in a statement.

The AL held the Israeli authorities responsible for al-Najjar's "liquidation," warning against the continuity of such "brutal practices" of the Israeli troops.

Since late March, the Israeli forces killed at least 120 Palestinians and wounded thousands during protests calling for the Palestinian refugees' right of return and ending the Israeli blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007, when Islamic Hamas movement seized control of the enclave.SINGAPORE, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The 17th Shangri-La Dialogue concluded here Sunday with the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, regional security order and non-traditional security challenges, as well as China's positive role in Asia-Pacific region, widely discussed at the three-day event.

China advocates the concept of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, takes win-win cooperation as the core of new international relations based on partnerships instead of alliances, and strives to pursue a new path of security, which is built by all, shared by all, win-win for all and safeguarded by all, said He Lei, Vice President of the Academy of Military Science of the Chinese People's Liberation Army and the head of the Chinese delegation to the dialogue.

DENUCLEARIZATION OF THE KOREAN PENINSULA

The Korean Peninsula nuclear issue has made positive progresses recently. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday that he would meet with the top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore as originally scheduled after recent twists and turns.

"The time is different and North Korea has a new leader now. I believe that North Korea is looking to change the course of history and making decisive actions towards that," said South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo, expressing the belief that the efforts put up by leaders of the two countries will open a new era.

In short term, a big challenge for Asia-Pacific security is the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, and even if it was managed, coping with that would be a big long-term challenge, said Tim Huxley, executive director of the International Institute for Strategic Studies-Asia in Singapore.

The DPRK promised to discontinue its nuclear tests before reaching any agreement with the United States, laying foundation for a positive prospect of denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, said Chen Gang, assistant director of policy research at the East Asian Institute of the National University of Singapore.

China is committed to facilitating peace talks on the Korean Peninsula issue and will only play a positive role, Chen said.

JOIN HANDS TO FIGHT NON--TRADITIONAL THREATS

Besides traditional international security issues, terrorism, separatism, and online security have been in focus at the conference. Most participants at the conference agreed that countries should team up to fight non-traditional security threats.

Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu called upon countries to be more vigilant and focus on unity by "enlarging our similarities and minimizing differences" to anticipate the evolution of real threats such as "terrorism and radicalism, separatism and armed rebellion, natural and environmental disasters, border area disputes."

The above-mentioned threats have no state boundary, and are not related to religion, unpredictable in time, and random in hurting victims, he said.

All countries must intensely coordinate national instruments of law enforcement, diplomacy, economy, development policy and the military, and then apply a well-tailored and targeted mix of measures, said German Minister of Defense Ursula von der Leyen.

"Internationally we need to cooperate even closer in our respective regional organizations and alliances. When poverty grows radicalization, its education, human security and jobs which foster reconciliation stability and peace," she said.

CHINA'S POSITIVE ROLE

Representatives at the conference also talked about China's role in the Asia-Pacific region, stressing that China has contributed to peace and stability in the region.

China offered positive views of regional economic integration, and suggested new security concepts, according to a report, Asia-pacific Regional Security Assessment 2018, issued by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, organizer of the conference..

"No other relationship of India has as many layers as our relations with China," and the two countries have displayed "maturity and wisdom" in managing issues and ensuring a peaceful border, said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his keynote speech at the conference.

Asia and the world will have a better future when India and China work together in trust and confidence, sensitive to each other's interests, he said.

"We should also acknowledge that a prosperous China, constructively engaged in global affairs, is a good thing. It is not possible to address global challenges such as North Korea or climate change without China's involvement," said Australian Minister for Defence Marise Payne at the conference.

In practice, the comprehensive new security concept proposed by China has been replacing zero-sum game in dealing with state relations, said Oh Ei Sun, special adviser for international affairs of Malaysia's Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute.

China's policy for Asia-Pacific security cooperation talks about sustainability of the security order, building new foreign relations, and this is different from the zero-sum and post cold-war mentality, said Asanga Abeyagoonasekera, director general of the Institute of National Security Studies in Sri Lanka.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-03 23:46:54|Editor: yan

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DAMASCUS, June 3 (Xinhua) -- A monitor group said Sunday it has received information about the withdrawal of Iranian military experts from southern Syria.

Rami Abdul-Rahman, the head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said the Iranian military advisors withdrew from a triangle of areas in the southwestern countryside of the capital Damascus as well as the countryside of Daraa and Quneitra provinces in southern Syria.

The reported withdrawal of the Iranian advisors come in tandem with the arrival of Syrian forces from the 4th Division formation to fill in after the withdrawal of the Iranian experts.

Abdul-Rahman said that the Iranian-backed forces haven't yet withdrawn from these areas, as an estimated number of 300 Hezbollah fighters are still in those places.

However, he said that the withdrawal of the Iranian-backed forces will take place in accordance with an agreement that is being hammered out among Russia, Israel, and the United States about settling the situation in southern Syria.

The deal, which hasn't yet been declared or possibly finalized, would see the departure of Iranian-backed forces from southern Syria and the Syrian army would be deployed across the border with Jordan near Daraa and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights near Quneitra.

A day earlier, Syria's Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem said his government wasn't engaged in any talks about an agreement in southern Syria, noting that there will be no agreement without the withdrawal of the U.S. forces from the al-Tanf base in southern Syria first.

Meanwhile, the Syrian army has been amassing forces near Quneitra and Daraa, and in case the agreement failed to see the evacuation and surrender of rebels, the Syrian forces will launch a wide-scale offensive.LONDON, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Geoff Ho, the financial journalist who became a hero in last year's terror attack on London Bridge, was praised by Prime Minister Theresa May Sunday on the first anniversary of a the horrific incident which claimed eight lives.

Ho also revealed Sunday how he had found true love as a result of the attack and was now engaged.

May said: "The many stories of courage demonstrated that night will always stay with me -- such as Ignacio Echeverria, who died after confronting the terrorists with the only thing he had, his skateboard, and Geoff Ho, who spent almost two weeks in hospital after being stabbed in the neck as he shielded his friends."

May described the attack on London Bridge and the nearby Borough Market as a cowardly attempt to strike at the heart of freedoms by deliberately targeting people enjoying their Saturday night with friends and family.

"Today we remember those who died and the many more who were injured, and also pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened or came to the aid of others," said May.

A memorial service at Southwark Cathedral followed by a procession to London Bridge for a one-minute tribute silence, are also planned to commemorate one of the deadliest attacks in the British capital since the 2005 London bombings.

Among the eight people killed were seven foreign nationals from four different nations.

"This is a reflection of our great cosmopolitan capital, whose energy and values brings together people from across the world, and a tragic reminder that the threat from terrorism transcends borders and impacts us all," added May.

She concluded: "My message to those who seek to target our way of life or try to divide us is clear - our resolve to stand firm and overcome this threat together has never been stronger."

As well as the eight fatalities, 48 people were injured when three terrorists drove a van into people on London Bridge before attacking with knives people enjoying a night out in the bars and restaurants around the nearby Borough Market.

HERO

A photograph of Ho, clutching a T-shirt to his neck to stop the bleeding has become one of the most shocking and enduring images from the attack. He had been stabbed in the neck by one of the terrorists as he tried to protect his friends.

On Sunday, the Sunday Express relived the story of Ho, describing how his Adam's apple was severed and another knife narrowly missed major arteries. Following an operation, a tube was inserted in his throat for a week to help him breathe and he was unable to speak for three days.

Ho told the Express how he had how his life has changed since the attack, and how he has found romance with a friend he had first met at a kung fu class.

A year on, Ho was back at Borough Market next to the restaurant where he was stabbed, with his fiancee Cecile De Alencar, 37, and their pet dog Tino, by his side.

Ho told the Express: "Cecile and I met at kung fu and I thought she was lovely. We never did anything about it because we were always involved with other people.

"But when this stuff happens to you, suddenly you realize the people that really matter to you. It brings it home who does matter and who doesn't. She turned up at the hospital and I remember seeing her after just waking up from the operation.

"It was the most beautiful sight in the world. I knew before that she was 'the one' but it was then that we arranged to meet for dinner at my house after I left the hospital."

The atrocity that threatened to tear his life apart made the couple realize just how much they loved each other, said the Express.

Ho, who is 41, added: "I appreciate everything more. My life is amazing now. I have a wonderful fiancee, this amazing dog. I have a wonderful home life, my family and friends are all amazing. The terrorists didn't win. Hell, no. In fact they did the opposite... they brought us all closer together."

Britain's Home Secretary Sajid Javid is expected to announce on Monday a range of steps aimed at boosting Britain's counter-terrorism approach.

The new strategy is expected to include plans for national intelligence service MI5 to share its information more widely.

The Home Office said Sunday: "We expect the threat from Islamist terrorism to remain at its current, heightened level for at least the next two years, and that it may increase further."

The official also added that Britain had assessed the threat from extreme right-wing terrorism to be growing.NEW YORK, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Young Chinese American writer Rebecca F. Kuang autographed her new book "The Poppy War" on Saturday at the New York Bookcon.

The historical fiction, picked up by HarperCollins in May 2016, was set in a mythical land inspired by 20th century China. The book follows a young orphan's entry into an elite military school and her discovery of shamanic power as a war brews in the background.

"It's the story of China's twentieth century, but told in an alternate fantasy setting," Kuang, 22, a Georgetown University senior, told Xinhua in an interview.

"It's a really painful period of history that a lot of readers in the west don't know," Kuang added, "so I wanted to draw attention to historical issues that have not been traditionally represented either in western fiction or in American classrooms."

The one-hour autographing drew in the crowds. Lilian Chen, mother of two teens, was animated when she managed to get several signed books after a long queue.

"My younger daughter is quite into it and the rest are for my U.S. friends," said Chen.

Kuang, who immigrated to the United States from Guangzhou, China in 2000, plans to continue to pursue Chinese history at the University of Cambridge next fall.

She was one of 43 U.S. recipients of 2017 Marshall Scholarship, an award that funds up to three years of graduate study at any university in the United Kingdom.

"The Poppy War" will be followed by two sequels. Kuang said she will finish this trilogy before she moves to England.

The New York BookCon is an annual fan convention established to combine pop culture and the book industry. This year's event runs from Saturday to Sunday featuring dozens of authors, celebrities and publishing professionals at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.TIRANA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Albanian border police have taken additional measures along the border with Greece to stop the illegal migrants whose number has increased significantly, Albanian local media reported on Sunday.

In Devoll area, southeastern Albania, the police have stopped about 70 immigrants coming from Greece in the past two months.

According to the border police report, more and more immigrants use the Albanian territory as a transit to move further to European Union (EU) countries.

A few days ago, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama called for the help of European partners to prevent this phenomenon so that Europe does not experience the situation of 2015.

Meanwhile, the Director of the European Border Agency (Frontex) Fabrice Leggeri confirms the fact that Albania has entered the list of countries from which the illegal immigrants pass.

In an interview for Spiegel Online, Leggeri said in the northern part of Greece at the border with Albania, 45 Frontex officers will be deployed for the first time in order to prevent the influx of immigrants.

Leggeri declared that a new path is being followed by refugees from northern Greece, through Albania and Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia, called as the Balkan Coast Way.

According to Leggeri, the European Commission has proposed that Frontex should build a body of 10,000 coastal guards by 2027.TRIER, Germany, June 3 (Xinhua) -- The exhibition series "Meet with China" have kicked off in western German city of Trier, hometown of the thinker Karl Marx, with an opening exhibition dedicated to the local culture and social development in east China's Jiangxi Province.

A cooperation project of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), Directorate General for Cultural Heritage Rhineland-Palatinate (GDKE) and the Association of German China Societies (ADCG), the exhibition series will also feature specific exhibitions on China's east province Shandong, southwest province Yunnan and the capital city Beijing, among others.

Addressing an opening ceremony, Li Xiaolin, President of CPAFFC, noted that the year 2018 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Karl Marx and the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening up.

"We hope that the exhibition series could become a window for the German public to understand China, as well as a bridge for peoples of both countries to communicate their feelings and friendship," she said.

Konrad Wolf, Minister of Culture in Rhineland-Palatinate, recalled that Rhineland-Palatinate had established relations of friendship with China for many years, through various channels of economic, scientific, technological, and cultural cooperation.

"With this series of exhibitions held on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of Karl Marx's birth, local people will have the opportunity to learn more about China," he said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-04 02:02:15|Editor: ZD

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TEHRAN, June 3 (Xinhua) -- A senior Iranian military official on Sunday ruled out the possibility of withdrawal of Iranian military advisors from Syria, Tasnim news agency reported.

"Iran and Syria enjoy deep relations that would not be influenced by the propaganda measures of anyone," Brigadier General Massoud Jazayeri told Tasnim on Sunday.

Iranians, unlike the U.S. military forces, have gone to Syria at the request of the Damascus government, Jazayeri said, stressing "the biggest fear of Israel is the presence of Muslim fighters in its proximity."

The United States and Israel are making "desperate efforts to change the situation," he added.

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel might launch more attacks against Iran to prevent it from establishing a presence in Syria.

"I will also insist on a basic principle: Israel retains, and will continue to retain freedom of action against the establishment of an Iranian military presence anywhere in Syria," Netanyahu said.

The second thing is the blocking of Iran's plans for expansion and aggression throughout the Middle East, he added.

Israel has reportedly carried out a series of deadly airstrikes in Syria, targeting mainly the positions of Iran and Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shiite militia, which fight alongside the forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

In the meantime, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Shamkhani, said Sunday that recent allegations about negotiations between Iran and Israel over the former's role in Syria are totally "baseless," Press TV reported.

"The start and spread of such baseless rumors, which are increasing in number, represent a futile effort to give legitimacy to the Zionist regime (of Israel) and weaken the resistance front's will in its confrontation with Israel," Shamkhani was quoted as saying.RIGA, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Saber Strike 18, an annual U.S.-led multinational military training exercise, kicked off in Latvia on Sunday, spokesperson with the Latvian Defense Ministry informed.

Saber Strike 18, one of the largest ground and air forces' exercise organized by the U.S. in Europe, will be taking place in four countries: Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia and Poland, with the participation of 18,000 soldiers from 19 countries.

In Latvia, the drills will be held from June 3 to 15 in 10 municipalities, the Latvian Chief of Defense, Lieutenant General Leonids Kalnins, said last week on public television.

The NATO Enhanced Forward Presence Battlegroup stationed in Latvia is also involved in the Saber Strike exercise.

The main goal of the exercise is to test the allied forces' readiness to respond to potential conventional military threats, Kalnins said.

The Saber Strike exercise is organized annually since 2010.Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-04 03:12:27|Editor: zh

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TEHRAN, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Sunday urged international condemnation of U.S. attitude towards Iran's 2015 landmark nuclear deal, Press TV reported.

In letters to his counterparts of a number of countries, Zarif warned of the dangerous consequences of the U.S. "illegal and unilateral" move to pull out of the nuclear agreement, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

He called for international condemnation of what he called Washington's "extremism," urging the world to withstand U.S. "lawbreaking and bullying behavior."

"Illegal withdrawal of the U.S. government from the JCPOA ... is challenging the goals and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the efficiency of international bodies," the Iranian foreign minister said.

Likewise, the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA was the country's biggest effort aimed at violating and weakening the nuclear accord and the UN Resolution 2231, adopted in July 2015 to endorse the historic deal, he said.

Zarif further said the JCPOA put an end to an "unnecessary crisis" which lasted for more than one decade.

He emphasized that the agreement's scope, regulations and time frame were the outcome of "accurate, sensitive and balanced multilateral" talks and it is impossible to make any changes on or hold new negotiations about them.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on May 8 to pull out of the treaty, and vowed to re-impose sanctions on Iran, which was alleviated under the JCPOA.

Iran has said that it will stay in the deal as long as the other five powers remain committed to it despite the U.S. pullout.DUBLIN, June 3 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. military plane made an emergency landing in Ireland on Sunday due to a technical fault while on a flight mission over the Atlantic, reported local media BreakingNews.

The emergency landing was made at Shannon Airport in the western coastal area of Ireland at about 3:00 p.m. (local time) on Sunday, said the report, adding that nine crew members aboard the plane remained safe and sound during the emergency landing.

The plane is a U.S. Air Force McDonnell Douglas KC-10, an aerial refueling aircraft, which belongs to the 305th Maintenance Squadron based at McQuire Air Force base in the U.S. eastern coastal state of New Jersey, according to the report.

The plane issued an emergency landing request to the Irish aviation authorities after it met a problem with one of its three engines while flying over the Atlantic, said the report.

A large contingent of rescue teams involving fire engines and ambulances were called in before the landing of the plane, it said, adding that the plane was escorted to a remote parking stand after it landed.

A subsequent investigation by engineers revealed that a panel was missing from the plane's left engine.

Shannon Airport is a major airport along the Irish western seaboard. Due to its unique geographic position, the airport often serves as an emergency landing place for trans-Atlantic flights either due to inclement weather conditions or technical faults.TRIPOLI, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Libya's eastern-based parliament will support the interim government through "new arrangements" to remove "restrictions" imposed by the UN-sponsored political agreement signed in 2015, Libya's eastern-based interim government announced on Sunday.

The announcement came days after a meeting in Paris that gathered the Libyan political parties to discuss solution to the political crisis in the country.

According to a statement issued by the government on Saturday, eastern Parliament Speaker Agila Saleh held an extensive meeting with the cabinet of the interim government to discuss "new arrangements" related to the work of the government and the central bank of Libya.

Saleh said that "policies will be adopted by the interim government and the central bank of Libya in order to improve the living and service conditions of the people, in accordance with the outcome of the Paris meeting and the foreign tour held by Prime Minister Abdullah Thani in this regard."

According to the statement, the new arrangements for the work of the interim government and the central bank of Libya will be announced "after the holy month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr" in mid-June.

These arrangements "revolve around the new policies of the government in order to remove restrictions resulting from the political agreement signed in Morocco in late 2015," according to the statement.

"Coordination was done with Prime Minister Thani, the Governor of the Central Bank of Libya, Ali al-Hebri, and the Army Commander General Khalifa Haftar," the statement said.

Saleh pointed out that "the committee, composed of the parliament and the army's General Command, confirmed during the Paris meeting that the interim government is the legitimate government, and that the parallel government is the so-called government of national accord, which is rejected by the nation's deputies."

Despite signing a UN-sponsored political agreement by the Libyan rival parties in 2015 and appointment of the UN-backed government of national accord, Libya remains politically divided between eastern and western authorities competing for legitimacy.

On Tuesday, France hosted a meeting on Libya in Paris which gathered the Libyan parties to end the Libyan political crisis.

In the meeting's final communique, leaders of different Libyan factions pledged "to work constructively with the UN to hold credible and peaceful elections and to respect election results."

The rival Libyan factions also agreed to hold "credible" presidential and parliamentary elections on Dec. 10.MEXICO CITY, June 3 (Xinhua) -- An escalating tariff dispute between Mexico and the United States could put an end to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the Institute for Industrial Development and Economic Growth (IDIC) said on Sunday.

But that's not necessarily a bad thing, the prestigious group, which advises government, said.

In its latest report, titled "The 2018 Challenge: Rebuilding the Vision of Mexico," the IDIC said the country must brace for the possible death of NAFTA, the nearly 25-year trade deal between Canada, Mexico and the United States.

That would not mean "the end of economic exchange in the region, but it would mean the beginning of the construction of another legal framework for interaction," the institute says.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who believes NAFTA shortchanged U.S. industry, insisted the deal be renegotiated to secure better terms for the United States.

At the same time, his government is pursuing protectionist measures, arguing that protecting the U.S. steel sector, for example, is a national security concern.

As of June 1, the U.S. imposed steep tariffs on imported steel (25 percent) and aluminum (10 percent) from the European Union as well as its NAFTA partners.

Mexico has said it will retaliate with tariffs on U.S. imports.

"Our country cannot depend on the decision of a single man, or the interests of another nation," the group said, adding that "the time has come to modify the strategy of our economic policy."

After seven rounds of negotiations, NAFTA's partners are still far from resolving key differences, invariably due to U.S. intransigence, the institute said.

"Multilateral agreements get in Trump's way ... that's why he seeks to establish bilateral negotiations in which he can impose, or in the best case scenario, influence" the outcome to his advantage, the IDIC said.

"We must be calm and objective, and acknowledge that NAFTA could come to an end," but with a unified national policy, Mexico could forge beneficial bilateral trade deals with its neighbors and other regions, said the institute.ALGIERS, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Algiers John O'Rourk has been summoned by the Algerian Foreign Ministry, following the release of a video clip including critical remarks about Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, said the ministry on Sunday.

Last Thursday, Leyla Haddad, former correspondent of the Algerian state-run television ENTV in Belgium, called the Algerian president "an object in the hands of his brother and the barons of the regime," in a video shot at the headquarters of the EU parliament in Brussels.

Noureddine Ayadi, Secretary-General of Algerian Foreign Ministry, noted that "we hope that the EU publicly stands out of this maneuver and we ask for concrete action to be taken against the irresponsible actions of the offender."

The statement further recalls that "Algeria's ambassador in Brussels, based on instruction from the Foreign Ministry, has taken urgent procedures at the level of EU competent institutions."

The two ruling parties in Algeria, namely FLN and RND, have publicly asked Bouteflika to run for a fifth term, while the opposition called for his resignation.

Bouteflika has been suffering health problems since he had a stroke in 2013. Now he has become unable to walk or speak loudly.By Peter Mertz

SALT LAKE CITY, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Sparsely populated America's West is the darkest place in the continental United States - perfect for seeing tiny flashes of light miles above the Earth.

Those tiny flashes - occurring in a millisecond just as a lightning bolt explodes - are releasing gamma rays and creating antimatter, and one facility in Utah is leading the world in measuring and detecting these bursts.

"The significance of this research is profound," said Maryland scientist Benjamin Taub.

"It draws science one step closer to understanding one of the last mysteries on Earth - the source of lightening," Taub told Xinhua.

AMAZING SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERY

Last month, scientists at the University of Utah announced that between 2014 and 2016, their massive particle collection array had detected 10 downward terrestrial gamma ray flashes, or TGFs.

Electromagnetic radiation runs the gamut from low energy radio waves, microwaves, and infrared - to visible high-energy bursts and ultraviolet, x-rays, and gamma rays, including TGF's - the most powerful explosions in the universe.

The news was the first to link downward TGFs with the initial "leader stage" of lightening.

It also confirmed that gamma bursts can originate from the Earth, and are not just caused by violent celestial events such as exploding stars, the prevailing thought when a satellite recorded the first TGF flash in 1994.

Previously, only six downward gamma ray flashes had ever been recorded on Earth.

"To be able to measure, contain, or even capture a gamma ray - that's an amazing scientific discovery with limitless applications, including energy," Taub said.

Scientists have also determined that gamma rays - emitted a nanosecond after lightning is sparked when air masses collide - can also shoot upwards, beaming the rays into space.

Since discovering the upward flashes, physicists have wondered whether cloud-to-ground lightning produced similar gamma ray bursts that beam downward.

Two facilities on Earth, one in Utah, are confirming that this is happening, and are stunning the scientific community with gamma ray data they are collecting.

COSMIC RAY COLLECTION

John Belz, professor of physics at the University of Utah and leading the lightning project, said gamma ray flashes have been seen from satellites orbiting the Earth for 20 years.

But now they are being measured and defined like never before in history.

Belz has emerged as a national expert in this 21st century blockbuster science field, following American giants Paul Krehbiel, Bill Rison, and Ron Thomas at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology.

In 1998 Belz was doing research in Montana, and first got connected to the Cosmic Ray Group. By 2005, he had moved to Utah for good to work with a top team of scientists he considers mentors.

The then 35-year-old Belz first got a 120,000 U.S. dollar National Science Foundation (NSF) grant in 2000, for the "Study of the Highest-Energy Cosmic Rays."

Since then, Belz credits Utah's Cosmic Ray Physics Group and renowned scientists Gordon Thomson, Charlie Jui, Pierre Sokolsky and John Matthews, for nailing down about 18 million U.S. dollars in NSF grants for some 16 projects related to the school's cosmic ray data collection efforts.

In an exclusive interview with Xinhua, Belz revealed that the elite Utah facility will soon add 500 more "scintillating collectors" with grant money coming from Japan, to increase and enhance collection capabilities.

That addition will double the facility's existing collectors, and scientists are thrilled by the potential data soon to be seen.

LIGHTENING

"There are some unknowns and uncertainties about how lightening is generated...these studies are contributing to the scientific breakdown of how lightening is started," said Belz, who earned a Masters and Ph.D. in physics at Temple University in Philadelphia, in the eastern U.S. state of Pennsylvania.

"In the case of lightening, we have a pretty good idea about what plays in the separation of electric charge in air - it has to do with ice crystals going up though thermal drafts, and positive and negative currents that collide," he explained.

"One of the underlying issues is that lightening breakdown seems to occur when the electromagnetic strength field isn't high enough - so something needs to be happening to help the air go through that breakdown," Belz said.

The physicist told Xinhua that they're looking for data that shows a voltage less than the number that physicists use - 30,000 volts per centimeter - created when air spontaneously breaks down.

When data collectors started jumping when the weather was stormy, Belz's team looked at the National Lightning Detection Network and, "low and behold - when there was a lightning strike, within a millisecond we would get a burst of triggers," he said of the landmark discovery.

DETECTOR EXTRAORDINARE

The Telescope Array Surface Detector is a project spearheaded by the University of Utah (UU) Department of Physics & Astronomy.

Scientists travel from UU's main Salt Lake City campus for 3 hours south into the vast, desolate desert to the southwest where their new data collectors have been installed.

The enormous data collection facility employs a 300-square-mile tract of land where 507 "scintillator detectors" have been placed to maximize detection of falling particles from the cosmos above.

The telescope array was so big, that scientists "located it a couple of hours drive south to "get the space we needed to put detectors on the ground in a widespread desert installation," Belz explained.

The array was originally designed to detect cosmic rays - that once on line in 2014, saw sensors react methodically every few minutes, according to Utah scientists.

But one day - downward terrestrial gamma ray flashes rained down - like gunfire.

"Four or five triggers of the detectors were occurring within a millisecond - much faster than cosmic ray data was being received," Belz remembered, of the exciting discovery.

WHY UTAH?

The University of Utah's Telescope Array Project (TAP) has 28 international partners, including 19 institutes and universities.

Utah is America's 11th largest state, covering an area of 84,899 sq. mi (219,890 sq. km), and borders remote areas in some of the country's other biggest states - Arizona (No. 6), Nevada (5), Idaho (13), Wyoming (10), Colorado (8), and New Mexico (7).

"If you look at satellite images of the United States at nighttime, you see one, very large, dark area - and that's exactly where we're located," Belz said.

Perfect conditions: A "high altitude (4,350-feet), light pollution, and a dry climate," Belz says, help his collectors maximize their performance.

Belz joined the elite Utah team during the High Resolution Fly's Eye or HiRes years - an ultra-high-energy cosmic ray detection observatory that operated from 1997-2006.

That group was led by 2007 Panofsky Prize winners Pierre Sokolsky and George Cassidy.

"They were doing atomic research studies long before I got here," said Belz modestly, who was a postdoctoral researcher at Rutgers University in New Jersey.

OTHER EXPERTS

With the University of Utah and its remarkable desert facility attracting scientists from around the world, Belz pointed out that a comparable cosmic ray facility in Argentina has also begun to study unusual lightning and "correlated showers with their detector."

The Pierre Auger Observatory (PAO) opened in 2008 and "also has the capability to see large showers of particles," Belz said, designed to detect ultra-high-energy cosmic rays: sub-atomic particles traveling nearly at the speed of light.

Located (1,163.9 km) miles west of Buenos Aires in Andes Mountains, PAO features a gigantic detection area the size of Rhode Island (1,545 sq mi or 4,002 sq. km) or Luxembourg.

More than 500 physicists from nearly 100 institutions around the world collaborate at PAO, named after French physicist Pierre Victor Auger, to maintain and upgrade the site and collect data. The 15 participating countries shared the 50 million U.S. dollars construction cost.

GAMMA PAST AND FUTURE

"Some scientists speculate that a (relatively) nearby cosmic gamma ray burst may have been responsible for one of the five mass extinctions in Earth' s past," said Taub, educated in science at the University of Maryland.

"But antimatter being detected in these gamma ray bursts is even more startling," Taub contends, "and why there is not an even amount of matter and antimatter in the universe is one of the enduring mysteries of physics," Taub said Friday.

NASA'S 2011 discovery through its Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope, of antimatter produced above thunderstorms, is another phenomenon Utah scientists will be observing.

Scientists think the antimatter particles are formed inside thunderstorms in a terrestrial gamma-ray lightening flash (TGF), and that about 500 TGFs occur daily worldwide - but most go undetected.

"Only one-tenth of one-percent of lightning flashes (measured by) the Telescope Array are accompanied by detectable TGFs," Belz noted.

Some 44,000 thunderstorms rage worldwide each day, delivering as many as 100 lightning bolts to the ground every second, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

"These dramatic, deafening flashes of electricity recharge the global battery by keeping the ground flush with negative electric charge and maintaining the ionosphere's positive charge," the NOAA said in a recent report.

NOAA scientists theorize even that, "lightning turns the Earth into an electric circuit, and it may have even delivered the spark that got life started in the primordial soup."Source: Xinhua| 2018-06-04 06:57:59|Editor: ZD

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Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) meets with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the Formal Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs, in Pretoria, South Africa, June 3, 2018. Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming state visit to China is of great significance to the planning of the next-phase growth of China-Russia relations, said China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Sunday. (Xinhua/Chen Cheng)



JOHANNESBURG, June 3 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming state visit to China is of great significance to the planning of the next-phase growth of China-Russia relations, said China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Sunday.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the remarks while meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the Formal Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs here.

President Putin is scheduled to pay a state visit to China on June 8-10 and attend the Qingdao Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), said Wang.

It will be President Putin's first visit to China in a new presidential term and it will also be the first time for President Xi Jinping and President Putin to meet each other in this year, which will be of great significance to the planning of the development of China-Russia relations in the next phase, said Wang.

China is willing to enhance coordination with the Russian side in order to ensure that the visit will be successful and fruitful and inject strong impetus into the development of bilateral relations, he said.

For his part, Lavrov said Russia attaches great importance to President Putin's upcoming state visit to China.

Russia is pleased with the progress in preparations for the visit and stands ready to make joint efforts with China to ensure that the visit will meet its expected goals, said Lavrov.

During the talks, the Chinese foreign minister also said that faced with an ever-changing international landscape that is full of uncertainties, China and Russia, as comprehensive strategic partners of coordination, should further strengthen coordination and cooperation to uphold the fundamental principles of international relations, maintain international fairness and justice and protect the overall interests of emerging markets and developing countries.

China and Russia should make joint efforts to ensure that the SCO Qingdao Summit, which will be the first such summit after the SCO admitted new members, continues to promote the "Shanghai Spirit", achieve positive and practical outcomes and send out a message of solidarity, said Wang.

The two countries should strengthen strategic coordination on the platform of BRICS cooperation, hold well the Formal Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and make good political preparations for the upcoming leaders' summit in July, Wang added.

Lavrov said that Russia fully agrees with China in its thoughts about the current international situation and is willing to strengthen coordination with China in multilateral mechanisms such as the SCO, BRICS cooperation, the Group of 20 and the United Nations.

Russia will make joint efforts with other emerging market countries to oppose unilateralism and protectionism and to safeguard world peace and stability, said Lavrov.

During their meeting, the two foreign ministers also exchanged views on the situation on the Korean Peninsula and agreed to further enhance coordination and cooperation to make efforts towards and contribute to the realization of a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula of lasting peace and stability.More Information

Tips for mixing social media and the outdoors

 If you are looking at strangers photos, look for clues about the route instead of judging its difficulty. A photo with children could mean a hike may be easier than others. Photographs can also show trail conditions and other general information.

 If youre following adventurers on social media, do your research about the person to ensure theyre a reliable source of information.

 If youre a more experienced hiker and youre posting on social media, include more information about your skill set or the preparation that went into taking the trip.

Tips to start hiking/climbing

 Understand the wilderness often means spotty cellphone reception and few people around. If you do get in trouble, it will be challenging to let someone know. Have an emergency contact that knows when to report that you havent returned.

 Turn around and look behind you every so often on the trail so you know what it will look like when on the return.

 Go out with an experienced person or climbing guide. Make sure that person actually has as much experience as they say they do, and dont split from them.

 Before heading out, look at maps, get a book on the area, call the local ranger station and get as much information as you can about the mountain.

 While out, travel at only about 60 percent exertion so you have the energy left over in case you get in a bad situation.I'm going to discuss 3 very basic things about patents:

Why it's good for you to get them;

Why it might be bad for your employer (and why they don't care);

How to get a patent for your idea (doesn't matter which.)

Some of my points are a bit naughty. But I maintain that they're based in fact and fairly widely known. So well-known, in fact, that I'm surprised to have never read it somewhere else.

My explanation is that the hatred of patents in the tech world is such that nothing except "HATE! HATE! HATE!" can be said on the subject in polite society. In this atmosphere, "Patents: how and why to get them" reads like "Humans: how and why to cook them."

If you can make yourself read this human-cooking manual, however, I think you'll find both amusing and useful things. I have more experience with patents than I've ever asked for, having worked on this stuff with lawyers from the smallest law firms to the largest ones, including lawyers who personally handled the most famous lawsuits for the most famous tech clients. I'm not an authority on patents, but I have good stories.

What patents give you

Some companies pay you money per patent. But it's rarely enough to make it worth your while, unless it's all you're doing. Patents look good on your CV, but reactions might be negative as well (you might appear "overqualified," "an expert in an unrelated field," etc.)

What's the one thing a patent undeniably buys you? A right to legally and publicly discuss your work  which you often can't get in any other way. This is not a side-effect of patent law, but its whole stated point. Patent law prompts companies to publish their ideas, in exchange for a time-limited monopoly right to use the ideas.

Note that publishing ideas in patents is easy, and the benefit for the author is certain. But getting and enforcing a monopoly for said ideas is not easy, so the benefit for the proprietor is not at all certain. Here's why.

What patents give (and don't give) your employer

Some problems with patents are so obvious that even patent lawyers will honestly discuss them with their clients:

When you submit a patent application, it becomes public forever, even if it's rejected. You will have paid legal fees with the end result of granting competitors access to your ideas.

If you sue for patent infringement, your patent might be invalidated as a result. It's like a rejected patent application, but with at least $1 million more in legal fees.

But there's another, potentially far bigger problem, that patent lawyers will rarely mention, let alone admit its extent:

You don't get monopoly rights to everything you file in the patent application. You publish a "spec" and "claims." The monopoly is granted only for the claims  perhaps in a reduced form relatively to the original patent application, due to feedback from the examiner. Yet the entire spec, much of it not covered by the claims, becomes public.

So what's the big deal, you might ask? The spec describes some device or method. The claims describe the supposedly new ideas used in this device or method. All you have to do is write a spec such that nothing of value is disclosed that is not covered by the claims.

However, in reality, the published spec is often quite close to the actual spec used by engineers, with all the details. That's simply the path of least resistance:

Patent lawyers don't know which claims will be rejected by the examiner. (If they knew, you wouldn't have a heap of rejected applications, nor patents invalidated in courts.) They file relatively broad claims, and then change the claims to address challenges by the examiner, until a patent is granted. The catch is that you can only base your new claims on details included in the originally filed spec  the spec can never be altered. Thus a detailed, complete spec maximizes the chances to get some patent out of the filing  covering 90% or 10% of the spec, depending.

More prosaically, if we don't file the actual spec but instead write a new one tailored to the claims, who's gonna do it? Neither the engineer nor the lawyer necessarily has the ability to do it, and surely neither has any interest in doing it. Much better to take existing documents and do the minimal necessary translation from English to legalese.

Ultimately, there's a conflict of interest between your employer and their patent lawyer, and a surprisingly perfect alignment of interests between the lawyer and yourself:

The lawyer wants to publish as many details as possible  to maximize the chance of getting a patent, and to avoid extra work;

 to maximize the chance of getting a patent, and to avoid extra work; The engineer also wants to publish as much as possible  to make his ideas known to the fullest extent, and to avoid extra work;

to make his ideas known to the fullest extent, and to avoid extra work; The employer/shareholder wants to publish as little as possible  but has no simple, reliable way to incentivize anyone to push in this direction (though of course some are much better at this than others.)

Funnily enough, this too is largely in line with the lawmaker's stated intent  prompting companies to publish ideas instead of keeping them secret. But why do companies file patents?

The answer is that patents are never read  they're counted. More precisely, a company's goal is to acquire enough patents so that they can only be counted  but not read and understood in a reasonable amount of time.

If you have too many patents to read and understand (hundreds, thousands or more), then investors and competitors alike assume you "own your domain"  you can counter-attack if sued. You're as well-defended legally as you can possibly be. But if you have few patents, someone might read and understand most of them  and create a narrative about some legal weakness. Such narratives are bad for the stock price.

This situation must be avoided. And that's all there is to it  at least in the computing industry. And I know it might sound too dismissive to be convincing. But the fact is that the content of patents is just too complex to drive business decisions. The feasible thing for a decision-maker is to pick the bucket to put you in, out of "no patents, some patents, a shitton of patents." For more information, see the seminal work "Pulling Decisions out of One's Ass: Fast and Slow," keeping in mind that decision-makers have a lot of decisions to make, so they must be Fast.

Why filing patents isn't a crime on par with cannibalism

Considering the above, I don't think that a product company employee filing patents pollutes the tech environment as badly as people believe.

Product companies file patents largely for self-defense. Some occasionally attack startups, but how many startups were destroyed by a patent lawsuit vs the number of those destroyed by a badly managed acquisition (with the original investors doing just fine)? And there are examples of big companies buying startups already attacked by a lawsuit filed by a bigger product company, confident that between two big companies, the legal result will be a stalemate. Thus for a big company genuinely fearing your product, it's much safer to buy you than sue you and have you bought by a big competitor.

The real trouble is patent trolls, who cannot be counter-attacked. But the only way a product company's patents will land in a troll's hands is if the company goes bankrupt and sells the patents. Well, guess what  in these cases, other product companies are eager to outbid the trolls. For example, when MIPS Technologies was sold to Imagination for ~$60 million many years ago, its patents, sold separately, fetched ~$500 million from some CPU cartel involving various big name CPU companies. Alternatively, a failing company can turn into a troll and sue a successful product company (MicroUnity comes to mind.)

Thus patents of failing product companies result in a weird form of socialism, where profit is spread more evenly between investors, with losers getting a chunk of the winners' profits. I don't think this chunk is nearly large enough on average to substantially reduce the incentive to work hard for the win, which is supposedly "the" trouble with laws subsidizing losers.

My point is that patent trolls and product companies seem to live in largely parallel universes. There are patents filed with the intention to be used by a patent troll, and there are patents filed by product companies, and the latter cause far less damage.

How to get a patent

I've lost count of the number of times I've heard the words "The Black Swan." It rather aggrieves me, but you gotta hand it to Taleb. Everyone is trying to pollute our language by needlessly coining catchphrases in a quest to be memorable, but he succeeded more than most. Surely I wouldn't hear this nonsense as often if he called the book "The Unforeseen Event."

Getting patents is a lot like branding. The trick is to call old things new names.

Why does it take a patent lawsuit and at least $1 million in legal fees to find out if a patent really is a patent  or to see it invalidated by the court? Because searching prior art is hard. "Prior art" includes everything published prior to the patent  older patents, academic papers, and everything else, really. Strictly speaking, you never know if you're done.

How does the patent office examiner examine prior art, at a cost much lower than $1 million? Some equivalent of quick googling. The input of search engines is words and short phrases. If you use words and phrases which are uncommon in your domain, the search will come up blank, or it will find things so obviously unrelated to your work that even a patent examiner will get it.

If you're extending the concept of a thread, don't call the result "extended threads", call it "hypercontexts." If you're calculating a histogram, call it a "distribution estimator." And so on. Again, I know this sounds too dismissive of the system to be believable. Well, try it. File a patent application full of "distribution estimators" and another one written in plain English. See which gets approved more smoothly.

Note that you might be tempted to conduct a prior art search yourself before filing the patent application, as a matter of due diligence. Yet some lawyers actually recommend against it, since if you do find prior art, you're now willfully infringing on it, and should cease and desist. My advice is to come up with a bunch of Black Swans/Distribution Estimators describing your idea, and pick the ones with the fewest Google results (patent search and otherwise).

And don't actually read any patent you accidentally find  don't willfully infringe, it's illegal. Just count them. Patents are never read, only counted  sounds familiar?

The other very important thing  which you mostly get to worry about in smaller companies  is to get the right kind of lawyer. Patent lawyers are fallen engineers, with engineering degrees, and sometimes actual engineering experience. The underlying engineer who's morphed into a lawyer ought to have specialized in your domain. No compromise is acceptable here. If you're doing optics, don't work with a guy who did chip design, and if you do chip design, don't work with a guy who did optics.

It doesn't matter if the lawyer is a Partner ($900/hour), an Associate ($450/hour), or some lesser life form in the law firm. It doesn't matter whether the firm is the biggest name in the industry or completely unknown. What matters is engineering knowledge. Don't expect a patent lawyer to honestly tell you he doesn't know your domain. He'll always accept the work, and you'll pay $truckload/hour trying to explain the most basic things to him, and failing. You need to actively ask about his education and experience.

Summary

Like most annoying things in life, patents aren't evil as much as they're absurd. Use them to your advantage.Coun Perez reiterates warning to barangay leaders involved in drugs

07 Aug 2017 Hits:37 Comments(0)

Liga ng mga Barangay President, Councilor Jerry Perez yesterday reiterated his warning to all barangay officials from using or selling drugs. Perez said he is closely monitoring the activities of all the barangay officials and vowed sanctions against erring leaders. Aqui gane na mio barangay ya quita ya iyo na puesto cunel dos barangay leaders quien mas temprano ya sale positivo na...Patna: The JD(U) core committee met here on Sunday ahead of a meeting of the National Democratic Alliance scheduled later this week, after which a senior party leader said Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is the face of the NDA in Bihar.

Kumar, also the JD(U) national president, held the core committee meeting at his residence.

JD(U) national general secretaries KC Tyagi and Pavan Varma, who arrived from New Delhi, poll strategist Prashant Kishor and a few other state leaders took part in the meeting.

The meeting assumes significance as the BJP-led NDA, which the JD(U) joined in August 2017, is scheduled to hold a meeting in Bihar on June 7. During the NDA meeting, to be attended by Kumar, the coalition partners are likely to discuss their strategy in the state for the next Lok Sabha polls.

Emerging out of the chief minister's residence after the meeting, Varma told reporters that Kumar "is the face of the NDA in Bihar, that is why he is the chief minister. JD(U) is the largest constituent of the coalition".

Varma's remark assumes significance amidst speculation in political circles here that the JD(U), which has only two Lok Sabha members, might press for a seat-sharing arrangement commensurate with its strength in the Bihar assembly where it has about 70 MLAs against nearly 50 of the BJP.

Besides the JD(U) and the BJP, the NDA in Bihar comprises Ram Vilas Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party and Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samata Party.

The BJP had bagged 22 out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state in 2014, when the JD(U) had fought separately.

However, in the wake of the poor show by the BJP in a number of bypolls recently, its allies have started voicing the need for better coordination within the NDA instead of a "big brotherly attitude" displayed by the senior coalition partner.

Asked about Kumar's renewed demand for special status to Bihar, Varma said "the party had never given up the demand. To fight for this legitimate right of the state is the JD(U)'s commitment".

He, however, declined to divulge the details of the consultations held with Kumar.New York: India's Tata Sons has issued a strong rebuttal to a claim of a USD 50 million gift to the prestigious Harvard Business School, terming the US media report "false, disparaging and defamatory" and demanded an apology.

The holding company of the Tata Group, Tata Sons has raised strong objections to a May 21 article titled 'Harvard Business School's Ignominious Gift from Tata Trusts' in The Daily Caller, a conservative American news and opinion website.

Tata Sons has said that the "article is replete with false and inaccurate statements of fact and is defamatory to Tata Sons Ltd, its directors, its Chairman Emeritus Ratan N Tata, and all of them enjoy an enormous amount of goodwill and respect globally."

Tata Sons has formally written to The Daily Caller, giving a detailed and point-by-point rebuttal of the "several errors" and "blatantly false statements" in the article and demanded an apology and that the website take down the article.

The article is authored by Alan Beard, who according to his affiliation at the end of the article is managing director of Washington-based financial advisory firm Interlink Capital Strategies and a former adjunct professor at Georgetown University.

Given that the article is replete with incorrect, disparaging and defamatory statements and insinuations, we behove The Daily Caller to take immediate corrective steps to take down the article and publish an apology. We also call upon The Daily Caller to disclose all the materials relied upon by it for the purpose of publishing the article," Tata Sons said.

Tata Sons said the "reputational damage and harm" caused by the article is "irreparable" and the group "continues to explore" its remedies.

In the Daily Caller article, Beard refers to the 50 million dollar gift to Harvard Business School in 2010 from Tata Trusts and Companies, saying that the institution accepted "questionable funds that go against every tenet of good governance."

The article also questioned the use of the funds to construct Tata Hall at Harvard, saying "public money has apparently been misdirected to the most privileged and wealthy in the world."

Tata Sons strongly rejected these assertions in the letter to The Daily Caller, saying the gift of USD 50 million to Harvard Business School was collectively made by the Tata Companies, Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the Tata Education and Development Trust.

"It is untrue that the Tata Trusts had alone made the gift of USD 50 million."

Tata Sons also strongly rejected the claim made in the article that the USD 50 million gift agreement was "brokered" between HBS Dean Nitin Nohria and Ratan Tata. Tata Sons said that during his service on the Board, in 2008, Ratan Tata was approached by its former Dean Jay Light to consider a gift to HBS to build a new executive education building.

"Nitin Nohria had no involvement whatsoever in these discussions and it is a false statement that the gift was brokered between him and Tata," Tata Sons said.

Tata Sons also asserted that it was "incorrect and false" to allege that public money had been "misdirected."

"To state that funds were 'taken' from 'poor Indians' is not only false, but reckless reporting. It is unfortunate that no details of the enormous philanthropic work carried out by the Tata Trusts have even been reported."

The article also noted that Nohria, as non-executive director on Tata Sons Board, had voted to out former Tata Sons Chairman Cyrus Mistry. Rejecting this, Tata Sons said Mistry had been removed as he had lost the confidence of "7 out of 9 directors" of Tata Sons.

"From the false statements in the article, it is now apparent that the article is motivated, aimed to malign the reputation of Tata Sons, its directors and

Tata and probably that's the reason for irresponsibly reporting and intentionally not approaching Tata Sons or Tata for the correct facts," Tata Sons said.

Responding to a reference in the article that in the two months following Mistry's replacement as Executive Chairman, the value of Tata's listed companies dropped by USD 17 billion, Tata Sons said that the article failed to add that Mistry had, a day after being removed, written a "vitriolic email to the directors of Tata Sons wherein he made several unsubstantiated and false allegations" in relation to Tata Sons and other companies in the Tata group.

"The article is irresponsible, lacking in thorough investigation and openly partisan," Tata Sons said adding that the article's "one-sided presentation, motivated and malicious insinuations are plainly visible and buttressed by the fact that neither the Daily Caller nor the article's author approached the Tata Group for any comment and response prior to publication," Tata Sons said.Lucknow: RLD leader Jayant Chaudhary on Sunday said the Congress should play a supporting role in states dominated by regional parties in seat-sharing agreements ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Backed by the Congress, the Samajwadi Party, and the Bhaujan Samaj Party, Chaudhary's Rashtriya Lok Dal recently won the Kairana parliamentary bye-election, boosting expectations of opposition unity.

Admitting that seat-sharing was a difficult task, particularly in Uttar Pradesh where there are as many as four major parties, the RLD vice president said all partners will have to show magnanimity to halt the BJP in its tracks.

In states where the Congress is the main party, he suggested that the regional parties should support it.

While in the others, where the regional parties are in the vanguard, the Congress will have to play the supporting role, he told PTI, suggesting a formula to keep the fledgeling flock together.

"It is, however, for the Congress to take a call on this, but all the constituents have realised that this is the way forward," he said in a telephone interview.

He said the realisation had already dawned in Karnataka where the Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular) have formed the government.

He added that things are moving in the same directions in Madhya Pradesh with reports of the Congress and the BSP trying to come together for the assembly elections later this year.

Referring to the bye-elections for Gorakhpur, Phulpur and Kairana Lok Sabha constituencies won by the opposition in UP in the last few months, Chaudhary said, the three bye-elections have broken the myth of the BJP's invincibility and all parties have realised the fact that this is the way forward.

"If things can be managed properly in Uttar Pradesh, the 2019 poll results will be different," he said.

"The fact that the three main parties - the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the RLD ? are being led by a new generation of leaders will be most helpful," the 39-year-old leader said.

He said the victory of the opposition-backed candidate in Kairana and Nurpur bye-elections carry the message from the people that they want opposition unity.

Chaudhary said his party will use samajik gathjodh (social alliance) to foil attempts to make elections in western UP Hindu-Muslim as it did just now by defeating the BJP in these by-polls.

Asked about the leader of a possible opposition alliance in the next Lok Sabha polls, he said, "This decision will be based on numbers. But all the experienced leaders of opposition will take a collective decision."

On the possibility of Rahul Gandhi leading the opposition bloc, the RLD leader said, "I have worked with him. He now has a lot of experience in politics. First, the Congress party has to decide, then opposition leaders will take a call."

He said the new-generation leaders carry no burden of history and are very comfortable with each other, and this can be translated into providing a political alternative.

Chaudhary, who is the son of RLD chief Ajit Singh and grandson of Jat leader Charan Singh, was an MP from Mathura in the previous Lok Sabha.

"Coalition politics is nothing new for the country as it helps in giving representation to the diversity of the country," he said, adding even Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP Chief Minister Adityanath are leading coalitions.

He said besides pointing at a formula to success for anti-BJP parties, the bye-election result have shown people the possibility of an alternative.

Till now the momentum had been in favour of the BJP and people believed that no one could face the 'Chanakya niti' of party president Amit Shah, he said.

The ruling party also does not have the excuse that its top leadership had remained absent from Kairana, he said.

"Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was there twice and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the adjoining areas just before the polling, while deputy CMs, Union ministers and MPs stayed put in the constituency," he said.

The RLD leader was also critical of the campaign undertaken by the BJP, saying the party leaders indulged in negative talk which was unbecoming of those occupying such high posts.

"We successfully managed to put the government on the mat raising questions on development and farmers issues, he said.

These are important matters and cannot be ignored by any government," he added.Patna: Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh said on Saturday that the protest by farmers in various parts of the country were attempts to get media attention, triggering demands by opposition parties for his removal.

Singh said the farmers opted for "unusual deeds" to draw media attention as they belong to organisations with only a few thousand members.

The farmers have launched a 10-day agitation to press their demands, including loan waiver and right price for crops. They dumped vegetables, milk and other farm produce on roads and blocked supplies to cities in several states on Friday.

"It requires some unusual deeds to appear in the media. The country has about 12-14 crore farmers. There will always be organisations with a following of a few thousand," Singh told reporters at a press conference when asked about the agitation.

The minister's remarks drew sharp reaction from opposition parties in Bihar, which accused him of being "insensitive" to the farmers' plight and demanded his removal.

"It is the height of insensitivity on part of the Union agriculture minister at a time when farmers are under so much distress. He should be sacked immediately," RJD spokesman Manoj Jha told PTI.

He said: "Radha Mohan Singh's comments is part of a series of uncharitable remarks made by BJP leaders against farmers. We wonder if (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi sees him as a poster boy for his proclamation of 'sabka saath sabka vikas'."

Congress legislature party leader in the state assembly Sadanand Singh said the BJP has been ridiculing distressed farmers instead of solving their problems.

"The remarks of the Union agriculture minister are insensitive. Thirty-five farmers in the country commit suicide every 24 hours, but the Modi government seems to be impervious to their plight," he said in a statement.

Former Bihar chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha founder Jitan Ram Majhi said Singh's statements are a "reflection on his feudal mindset. We demand that Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately sack the anti-farmer agriculture minister."New Delhi: A VIP Embraer aircraft carrying External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to South Africa had gone incommunicado for 14 minutes, triggering a mid-air scare after the Mauritius Air Traffic Control pressed the panic button, an official statement said on Sunday.

Contact could not be established with the Indian Air Force flight IFC 31 after it left Male ATC for Mauritius airspace on Saturday, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) said in a statement.

But instead of the waiting for the mandatory 30 minutes, the uncertainty phase was activated, known as INCERFA in aviation parlance, it said.

"Mauritius ATC activated the uncertainty phase without allowing the stipulated time period of 30 minutes to lapse from the time when the aircraft last contacted ATC. This was perhaps done because the flight was carrying a VIP," the AAI said.

Since the Embraer-135 aircraft, carrying the minister, does not have a long range, it had stopovers at Thiruvananthapuram and Mauritius for refuelling.

The flight had left for Mauritius from Thiruvananthapuram at 2.08 pm. After it left the Indian airspace, it was handed over to the Male ATC which established contact with the flight at 4.44 pm IST.

Soon after it was handed over to the Mauritius ATC, the incident unfolded leading to panic. However, everyone heaved a sigh of relief when the aircraft came in contact with the ATC there at 4.58 pm, the AAI said.

The Ministry of External Affairs has not commented on the issue so far.

Swaraj is in South Africa to attend the BRICS and IBSA meets - the two major groups where India has been playing a major role. She will also meet the top leadership of the country.

An official conversant with the ATC issues over the Indian Ocean region told PTI, the problem in contacting the flight could have arisen due to weak radar coverage as flights have to rely on VHF communication, which have their own set of issues.

The uncertainty phase is the first of the three emergency phases, the other two being the alert phase and the distress phase.Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has asked all government staff members in the state to cut down on unnecessary expenditure. The move by the Janata Dal Secular (JDS) leader is aimed at strengthening the financial condition of Karnataka.

The office of the Chief Minister released an official statement in this regard, asking the officials to reconsider the requests raised for new cars. Various government departments and offices have been asked to review their proposals seeking allowance of new vehicles.

Kumaraswamy, who is in alliance with the Congress party in the state, also directed the officials to not go for renovation and refurbishing in offices if avoidable. Days after taking charge as Karnataka Chief Minister on May 23, the JDS strongman has gone for the austerity measures, directing officials to also reconsider any renovation work planned at their official accommodations.

Apart from this, the Karnataka Chief Minister has barred officials from using their mobile phones during his meetings. In the order released by the Chief Ministers office, Kumaraswamy has said that use of mobile phones by government officials during meetings causes distraction and affects discussions of matters of grave importance.

The direction to not use mobile phones during meetings was issued by the CMO on June 1.

The report of the austerity measures by the Chief Minister comes after a consensus was reached between the JDS and the Congress over allocation of portfolios to members of both the parties.

As per the final decision, the JDS will be holding the Finance portfolio while the Congress will get Home department. "Congress and JDS have come to a conclusion regarding cabinet expansion and portfolio allocation. JDS will be holding the finance portfolio. Everything is settled," senior Congress leader KC Venugopal said. Kumaraswamy has said that the ministry expansion will take place on June 6.

(With ANI inputs)Ballia (UP): A local Samajwadi Party leader was shot dead in Sahatwar area here, police said on Sunday.

The body of Manoj Singh (46) was found near Mahrajpur village in Sahatwar area here, Superintendent of Police SP Ganguly said.

Police are probing the matter.Several Muslim groups have refused attend an Iftar party, slated to be hosted by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Monday in Mumbai. Significantly, members of as many as 30 Islamic countries are expected to attend the Iftar party being hosted by the RSS. Around 100 attendees for the event are slated to hail from non-Muslim community.

RSS body Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM) is organising the Iftar party, and around 200 eminent Muslim citizens have been invited to attend the grand feast.

According to MRM national convenor Virag Pachpore, the grand Iftar party is being organised by the right-wing organisation as an attempt to quash misconceptions about the RSS among minorities. He said that the motive is to drive across the point that the RSS is not against any community.

The truth is that the RSS wants to spread peace, prosperity and brotherhood among citizens from all communities, said the national convenor of the MRM.

However, some Muslim groups have refused to attend the RSS Iftar party, saying that Muslims must avoid any such event by the right-wing group unless it gives up (alleged) anti-Muslim policies.

They have alleged that the RSS is organising the grand Iftar party to lure Muslim voters to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2019 general elections. According to the groups that have called for the boycott, members of Muslim community have been troubled in the name of Love Jihad and cow slaughter.

Terming the Iftar party as sham, the groups have said that they would not attend the event. They have also urged other to boycott the RSS Iftar party.Union minister Smriti Irani has said that the coming together of opposition parties against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is a backhanded compliment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Union Minister of Textiles, Smriti Irani, said that opposition parties such as Congress were struggling for survival.

They (opposition parties) are struggling for survival. The coming together of several parties against the BJP is a backhanded compliment to Prime Minister Modi, which shows that they can't win on their own, said Smriti Irani on opposition parties making attempts to form an alliance against the BJP in the 2019 general elections.

The former HRD minister also hit out at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal, calling it a part of consolidated opposition which is fighting against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

As a result, they are indulging in targeted killings of BJP workers. The government in West Bengal has failed to maintain law and order & isn't able to deliver justice to families of victims, she the Union minister.

This comes just two days after the BJP failed to perform well in byelections held for four Lok Sabha and 10 Assembly seats. While the opposition parties managed to defeat the BJP in two out of four Lok Sabha seats, they also wrested nine of the 10 Assembly seats.

The BJP failed to win on Uttar Pradeshs Kairana and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. The party, however, managed to bag the Palghar seat in Maharashtra while its ally NDPP won the Nagaland seat.

Of the 10 Assembly seats that went for byelections, the BJP could win just Tharali seat in Uttarakhand. Apart from the seats that went for byelections, the Congress party emerged victorious in RR Nagar Assembly constituency in Karnataka.

Following the byelection results, while the opposition said that the results showed the beginning of BJPs end, the ruling party conceded that it needed to contemplate on the results, propelled apparently by united opposition.

(With ANI inputs)NEW DELHI: Congress on Sunday alleged irregularities in voter rolls in Madhya Pradesh. The party claimed that there are approximately 60 Lakh fake voters registered in the voting list of the state.

In a memorandum submitted to the Election Commission, the Congress party claimed that it has provided evidence regarding the issue.

INC COMMUNIQUE Memorandum to the Election Commission of India regarding irregularities in the voter rolls in Madhya Pradesh. @INCMP 1/2 pic.twitter.com/XOqspzAaWG  INC Sandesh (@INCSandesh) June 3, 2018

Calling it deliberate, Madhya Pradesh Congress party chief said that it is not administrative negligance but administrative misuse.

"We've provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 Lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. These names have been deliberately registered in the list. Ye prashasanik laparvaahi nahi prashasanik durupyog hai (This is not administrative negligence but administrative misuse)," Kamal Nath said.

Senior Congress leader from Madhya Pradesh Jyotiraditya Scindia accused the Bharatiya Janata Party behind this discrepancy. He alleged that even though the population increased by 24 per cent in 10 years, the number of voters increased by 40 per cent.

Scindia further said that the name of one voter appears in 26 lists and there are similar instances too.

"This has been done by BJP. How is it possible that population increased by 24 per cent in 10 yrs but number of voters increased by 40 per cent? We scrutinised list in all constituencies, 1 voter's registered in 26 lists, there are similar cases in other places too," Jyotiraditya Scindia said.

Notably, Madhya Pradesh is slated to go to polls later this year.Tata Institute of Social Sciences in Mumbai has revealed in an audit report that minor girls living at a government children home in Muzaffarpur in Bihar are subjected to sexual assault. The TISS has in its audit report raised questions on how the children home was being run.

A case in this regard has been filed under section 376, 120 B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act) against the Seva Sankalp evam Vikas Samiti, the NGO which runs the children home.

According to the report, several girls staying in the government children home were being sexually abused and tortured.

The case was registered at the Womens police station in Muzaffarpur after the report by TISS came to light. The complaint for the case against the children home was made by the district child protection unit.

News agency ANI quoted Senior Superintendent of Police Harpreet Kaur as saying that the investigations were underway. She further confirmed that no person has been named yet in the case concerning alleged sexual abuse and torture of children.

The SSP said, "The investigation has been initiated in this matter. There no name has been mentioned in the FIR."

Following the filing of the case, all the girls living in the government shelter have been shifted from Muzaffarpur to children homes in Patna and Madhubani.Professor Sanjeev Srivastava, whose Govinda-style dancing skills have taken the internet by storm, has been appointed the brand ambassador of Vidisha Municipal Corporation in Madhya Pradesh.

Sanjeev Srivastava, 46, is an electronics professor and a die-hard Govinda fan. Two of his dance videos from a wedding recently became a rage on social media. In one of the videos, he was seen dancing on Aap Ke Aa Jaane se from 1987 movie Khudgarz, while in the other he danced on Chadhti Jawani.

Best wedding performance selected by UNESCO pic.twitter.com/XPmLbmRKld  Gautam Trivedi (@KaptanHindustan) May 30, 2018

Reacting to the sensation on social media over his videos, Srivastava told news agency ANI that his new-found stardom is unreal feeling. He said, This is an unreal feeling. I cant believe my dance video has gone viral. I thank everyone for the love and support. I have been dancing since 1982 and my idol is Govinda ji. Now I hope to get more opportunities.

"It is a big thing for me that so many people have liked me, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart. I am extremely happy that people like Raveena Tandon, our chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan have liked my dance. I have learnt to dance from my mother and Govinda is my role model," he added.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had taken to Twitter to praise Srivastava`s dancing skills performance. The chief minister said, "Professor Shri Sanjeev Shrivastav ji, who has been working in Bhopal, has created massive sensation over the internet in the whole of India. Believe it or not, there is something special in the water of Madhya Pradesh."

The video was shot on May 12 during the ladies sangeet of Srivastava's brother-in-law in Gwalior.SRINAGAR: Two Border Security Force (BSF) personnel were killed in cross-border firing by Pakistan Rangers along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir's Akhnoor sector. The incident took place on Saturday night.

This comes days after India and Pakistan mutually agreed to undertake sincere measures to improve the existing situation ensuring peace and avoidance of hardships to the civilians along the borders.

In a special hotline contact established between the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of India and Pakistan on Tuesday, the prevailing situation along the Line of Control and Working Boundary was reviewed. It was mutually agreed to undertake sincere measures to improve the existing situation ensuring peace and avoidance of hardships to the civilians along the borders.

They agreed to fully implement the ceasefire understanding of 2003 in letter and spirit and to ensure that the ceasefire agreement will not be violated by both sides from now on. The officials also agreed that in case of any issue, restraint will be exercised and the matter will be resolved through utilisation of existing mechanisms of hotline contacts and border flag meetings at local commander's level.

The latest incident of cross-border firing comes after the state's capital Srinagar saw three grenade attacks in a span of few hours on Saturday.

The first attack took place when the terrorists hurled a grenade at CRPF 82 Battalion in Fateh Kadal's Chinkral Mohalla area, injuring three CRPF personnel and one civilian.

The second attack was reported when a grenade was lobbed at a CRPF deployment at Badshah Bridge in Srinagar, injuring one jawan.

"A total of six CRPF personals were deployed when the incident took place. The terrorists who were in an auto threw the grenade targeting the rear wheel of the CRPF vehicle. One personnel of 132 Battalion sustained splinter injury on his back and was immediately admitted to a local hospital," an official said.

The third attack took place when the terrorists lobbed a grenade at the CRPF personnel in Magarmal Bagh area.

All the injured are out of danger and their condition is stable.

(With inputs from ANI)Jammu: The latest attack on Indian forward points by Pakistani forces, in which two BSF jawans were killed on Sunday, has yet again proved that Islamabad said one thing and did another, a senior official said here.

Inspector General of Border Security Force (BSF), Jammu frontier, Ram Awtar also ruled out that sniping or an attack by enemy personnel wearing 'thermal camouflage suits' led to the two casualties on the International Border (IB) here.

Both BSF personnel fell to cross-border firing from Pakistan, he said.

Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey - both residents of Uttar Pradesh - were killed and 13 civilians injured in unprovoked and indiscriminate firing by Pakistani rangers in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district on Sunday, officials said.

The violation comes nearly a week after DGMOs of both countries agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".

Awtar said the ceasefire violation by Pakistan after the recent DGMO level talks between New Delhi and Islamabad again proved that the neighbouring country's words did not match its deeds.

It is saying something but doing something else. The latest incident proved it once again, he said. Awtar said the BSF was strictly implementing the decision taken at the DGMO level by the two countries last week.

Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed, he said referring to the latest incident. It was targeted firing on forward duty points by Pakistan, he added.

Talking to reporters after the wreath laying ceremony of the deceased personnel at the force headquarters here, the senior BSF officer said the casualties were not the result of sniping but of sudden cross-border firing from Pakistan.

We have strongly responded and in the coming days we will come to know about the damage suffered by Pakistan in the retaliatory action, he said.

He said the BSF did not target civilian locations but Pakistani forces did.

We only targeted the locations that targeted us but Pakistan, on the other hand, started targeting civilian areas of Pragwal and Kanachak since wee hours resulting in civilian casualties and damage to civil property, Awtar said.

Asked about rumours suggesting the casualties were caused by personnel wearing 'thermal camouflage suits' to avoid detection, he said, "I don't think something like that happened in this case."

"There is a need to study this case thoroughly. After every incident, we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well," the BSF IG said.

Earlier today, the bodies of two slain personnel were brought to the BSF headquarters where the wreath ceremony was held to bid farewell to them.

State Power Minister Sunil Sharma and former health minister Bali Baghat joined senior BSF, police and civil officers to pay tributes to the slain personnel whose bodies were later sent to their hometowns in Uttar Pradesh.

Power Minister Sharma warned Pakistan to desist from such activities or get ready to be wiped out from the face of the earth.

This time the central government is very determined and our message to Pakistan is to either change or get ready to be wiped out, the power minister said.

He saluted the bravery of the security personnel and said there is tolerance level and India has shown much patience. I think the time has come we should teach Pakistan a lesson for its misadventures.

He lauded border residents for braving frequent Pakistan shelling and said the time was not far when they will get rid of this menace.

Though it is the domain of the centre, defence ministry and defence strategists, we understand that we are not going to tolerate the killings anymore. We are making our efforts to normalize the situation but they are showing desperation and hurling grenades and firing on the borders, he said. India would not be cowed down by such actions, he asserted.Srinagar: Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from "bloodshed", Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti today termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day.

The people of Kashmir and the leadership here have to decide on the opportunity provided by the Centre in terms of unilateral ceasefire, which stopped the bloodshed here, and then the readiness for dialogue, how we benefit from it, Mehbooba said addressing a convention of her Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mehbooba said the ceasefire and talks offer an opportunity to the separatists to stop bloodshed in Jammu and Kashmir.

There are other parties who are not in the mainstream, and if they have some other agenda, they have an opportunity now if they want to stop bloodshed in J&K. We always say that there has to be a political solution to J&K and the army or CRPF or police cannot resolve it.

"It can only be resolved politically thorough dialogue. And when there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre, I request all stake holders to come forward to save J&K and its economy,? she said.

While the Centre announced unilateral ceasefire for the holy month of Ramzan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh recently said the Centre was ready to talk to separatists in the Valley if they are willing for a dialogue.

The CM said while she cannot force the separatists, they have to think on giving the youth in Kashmir a way out from the stone and gun culture.

We cannot force you or give you a dictation, but can only request even a day before yesterday a youth got killed after he came under a vehicle during stone-pelting. He was an orphan but why take to stone-pelting? Why not give them a way out from this morass, from stone or gun culture, she said.

Putting the onus on the separatists, Mehbooba said the mainstream parties in the state gave them an opportunity by providing an atmosphere for talks and now it was up to the separatists to take advantage of the opportunity.

We, mainstream parties, gave you unilateral ceasefire and an atmosphere for talks, now it is up to you - the separatists. I request them that it is an opportunity, that you always say that military solution is no solution and only dialogue is the way forward to achieve a political solution. So, today you have an offer of dialogue.

"They (Centre) are saying come and talk to us. I think if J&K has to be taken out of this morass and difficult time, then all be it mainstream parties or separatists have to come forward and use this opportunity. Such an opportunity does not come every day", she said, adding, "I request all the leaders (separatists) you are very tall leaders - but right now use this opportunity of talks to save J&K. Come forward and talk?"

She said the eyes of the whole country were on Kashmir and if the people here lose this opportunity, then no one will support or advocate for them tomorrow.

The Home Minister of this country is saying they want to embrace Kashmiris and are ready for talks. If we lose this opportunity, nobody will support us tomorrow, no one will advocate for us. The eyes of the whole country are on J&K and its leadership to see what they decide and how they try to save the people of Kashmir, especially its youth. If we have to save J&K, this is an opportunity for us, Mehbooba said.

Amidst reports of more youth joining militant ranks, the chief minister said the increase in the militancy would only increase the footprints of the security forces in the valley.

The increase in the number of youth picking up guns will increase the presence of army, CRPF and the police here. The more the situation improves, the more we can tell Army, CRPF or police that your role is over and you reduce your footprints, she said.

Referring to the spate of grenade attacks over the last few days, Mehbooba said gun or grenade attacks achieve nothing.

"Despite the unilateral ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. They do not see that civilians are getting killed, they do not see that army or CRPF jawans have come from far-flung areas for their bread and butter, what will this achieve? There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved? We have achieved Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, Poonch-Rawalkote road and if the situation improves, I promise you that we will re-open more such routes," she said.

The CM also batted for talks between India and Pakistan and condemned the ceasefire violations on the border.

"Till both the countries come closer, the situation will not improve. J&K bears the maximum impact of the relationship between India and Pakistan. So, our party's agenda is that they should talk to each other," she said.New Delhi: Superstar Akshay Kumar has often shown his support in social causes. The actor's 'Toilet: Ek Prem Katha' addressed the hygiene issue of rural India whereas 'PadMan' focused on the sensitive topic of menstrual hygiene. Both movies were widely praised by critics and have been successful in drawing people's attention towards such social issues.

Not just on-screen, Akshay promotes social causes in his regular life as well.

The actor took to social media app Instagram and shared a picture of himself along with Mumbai Police. The pic was captioned as-  Honoured to associate with the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, and take forward the 'Road Safety' movement. I sincerely hope the campaign will bring about a behavioral change towards traffic & road safety and in turn help save precious lives.

A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) on Jun 2, 2018 at 8:41pm PDT

Last month, Akshay launched a brand new advertising campaign for the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) in the capital. The ad also featured his Toilet: Ek Prem Katha co-star, Bhumi Pednekar.

In his welcome address, Shri Parameswaran Iyer, Secretary, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, spoke about the contribution made by Kumar to the Swachh Bharat Mission. He said that right from his movie, Toilet Ek Prem Katha, which was seen and appreciated by rural and urban people across the country, to his participation in the twin pit toilet advertisement campaign for the Swachh Bharat Mission, Shri Kumar has been a strong supporter of the sanitation movement underway in the country.Mumbai: Vicky Kaushal has come a long way from holding an engineering degree to a career in acting and the actor says he remembers feeling alive when he entered Bollywood.

The 30-year-old actor, who is fresh from the success of his latest "Raazi", talks about his engineering days, the importance of education, the idea to take up acting as a profession and his initial struggle in the industry.

"I never pondered during my struggling phase that I should have become an engineer as I knew that was not my life. I couldn't have lived it, it would have been a very claustrophobic life.

"Here whatever be the struggles, I was enjoying it. I was breathing, I felt I was living my life. It was a beautiful phase. The struggles were there but never bogged me down. Even during the struggle period, I knew this is what I want to do," Kaushal told PTI in an interview.

The actor says as he had seen the way his father, noted action director Shyam Kaushal, had grappled to make a mark in the film industry, he was prepared for every challenge.

"Subconsciously that happens. It gave me strength. I have seen my dad working with utmost sincerity and integrity, the sacrifices he made. I have also seen the rewards if you give your best, you get your worth. My dad has always inspired me," he says.

"My job is to give my best and where my journey would take me is something that I have left to God. I am not much of a planner, I am more of a doer," he adds.

The actor believes engineering prepared him for the hard work he would have to put in the film industry.

"At my place, it was like, whatever I do in life, graduation is very important. I am not using algebra or anything now in my work but the habit of working hard helps you.

"I never regretted that why I did not leave it (degree) in between. It was clear that whatever career option I take it will happen post graduation," he says.

Kaushal says he always had an inclination towards cinema. In college, he was an active theatre participant.

"One day, I just felt I don't belong here (engineering), this life is not in sync, this is not meant for me and I need to think of what I need to do in life. I had to dig deep in my heart and think what really gives me happiness, then came, the answer..." he says.

After the actor completed his graduation in 2009, he took a six-month acting course to prepare for something he wanted to do for the rest of his life.

"(Despite) being an industry kid, I had hardly been on a film set. I wanted to know how a few pages of script and how 200-300 people come together from all walks of life and how it all translated on celluloid," he says.

Kaushal says he knew life would take its course and he was ready to wait for an opportunity.

"I was 22-years-old and I was not in a hurry. I was not desperate to come in front of the camera. I knew that when I am in front of the camera, there is no trial and error mode. It is a test. You either fail or pass," he says.

The actor remembers going through the audition phase and how he would return home disheartened when rejected.

"I was prepared for the struggle that was involved with this whole process. I knew it would not be possible without the struggle. I had to step out, knock doors, meet people and prove my worth as an actor. I was self-motivated to do that every day," he adds.New Delhi: Bollywood producer Ritesh Sidhwani, who turned a year older on Friday, hosted a party that saw who's who from the Bollywood in attendance.

'Veere Di Wedding', that opened at theatres on June 1, has been receiving rave reviews from all sectors. And film stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor and Swara Bhaskar too attended Ritesh's party, held at his residence.

We came across several photos from the celebration and guess what? In one of the photo, actor Ranveer Singh is seen escorting Kareena to her car.

Check out the photos here:

(Photo courtesy: Yogen Shah)

Kareena arrived at the venue with her pals Amrita and Malaika Arora in her car. She looked radiant as always in a pink midi dress with minimal makeup. Kareena's sister Karisma was also present at the party.

Post the party, the 'Veere Di Wedding' star was clicked at Ritesh's parking lot, heading towards her car. And she was being escorted by none other than Ranveer, who was holding her hand.

Ranveer arrived at the party in his usual 'eye-catching' outfit. This time, the actor was dressed up in vibrant orange-coloured track pants and yellow tee with blue zipper. He was spotted with a moustache, which he is supposedly sporting for his next film 'Simmba'.CHENNAI: Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president M Karunanidhi on Sunday met party workers outside his residence in Tamil Nadu's Gopalapuram on the occasion of his 95th birthday.

Chennai: M Karunanidhi meets DMK workers outside his residence in Gopalapuram on his 95th birthday pic.twitter.com/19CkNroifF  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

The veteran Dravidian leader's house has been decked up with flowers and hoardings featuring him and his son, DMK working president MK Stalin.

Chennai: People gather outside the residence of M Karunanidhi to celebrate his 95th birthday. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/hH5oIt8Ajr  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

Congress president Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter and wished Karunanidhi. "I would like to wish Shri Karunanidhi ji a very happy birthday! I pray for his good health and happiness, always," he tweeted.

I would like to wish Shri Karunanidhi ji a very happy birthday! I pray for his good health and happiness, always.  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 3, 2018

Taking to Twitter, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too wished him on his birthday. "Warmest birthday greetings to M Karunanidhi @kalaignar89 Ji. I pray for your good health and happiness," she said.

Warmest birthday greetings to M Karunanidhi @kalaignar89 Ji. I pray for your good health and happiness  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) June 3, 2018

Born on June 3, 1924, Muthuvel Karunanidhi served the state five times as the chief minister. He stepped into the world of politics at 14 and in 1969, he became the chief minister for the first time.

The DMK chief, at present, represents the constituency of Tiruvarur in the Tamil Nadu state Legislative Assembly. He has also worked as a script writer in Tamil films.

Chennai: DMK workers gather outside M Karunanidhi's residence in Gopalapuram on his 95th birthday pic.twitter.com/WOwKkiWFUc  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

Karunanidhi has been out of active politics for several months due to health issues. His son Stalin and daughter Kanimozhi, a Rajya Sabha MP, look after the party affairs.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has granted a leave of absence to Karunanidhi because of his unwellness.CHENNAI: Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) workers gather outside party president M Karunanidhi's residence in Tamil Nadu's in Gopalapuram as he turned 95 on Sunday. Karunanidhi's house has been decked up with flowers and hoardings featuring him and his son, DMK working president MK Stalin.

Chennai: DMK workers gather outside M Karunanidhi's residence in Gopalapuram on his 95th birthday pic.twitter.com/WOwKkiWFUc  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

Born on June 3, 1924, Muthuvel Karunanidhi served the state five times as the chief minister. He stepped into the world of politics at 14 and in 1969, he became the chief minister for the first time.

The DMK chief, at present, represents the constituency of Tiruvarur in the Tamil Nadu state Legislative Assembly. He has also worked as a script writer in Tamil films.

The veteran Dravidian leader has been out of active politics for several months due to health issues. His son Stalin and daughter Kanimozhi, a Rajya Sabha MP, look after the party affairs.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has granted a leave of absence to Karunanidhi because of his unwellness.

Taking to Twitter, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wished him on his birthday. "Warmest birthday greetings to M Karunanidhi @kalaignar89 Ji. I pray for your good health and happiness," she said.Purulia: The man, whose body was found hanging from a power transmission tower here on Saturday, had committed suicide, the police said on Sunday on the basis of the post-mortem report, even as normal life was partially hit in the district following a 12-hour bandh called by the BJP, which claimed that the deceased was a member of the party.

The saffron party has also alleged that Dulal Kumar's death is a political murder.

The incident came close on the heels of the body of another man being found hanging from a tree at Balarampur in the district on May 30.

Newly-appointed Purulia Superintendent of Police (SP) Akash Magharia said a team of five doctors conducted the post-mortem of Kumar's body.

"The post-mortem report said it was a case of asphyxia due to ante-mortem hanging and suicidal in nature," he told newspersons here.

The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal replaced Joy Biswas as the SP of the district and appointed Magharia in his place, following the two back-to-back incidents.

Meanwhile, BJP supporters put up road blockades and prevented goods vehicles from plying on national highways at different places in the district.

The administration, however, dubbed it as a "normal Sunday" when schools, colleges, banks and government offices remained closed.

Balarampur, where the two incidents have occurred, wore a deserted look as the locals largely stayed indoors. The scene was similar in other parts of the district, where public and private vehicles stayed off the roads, and shops and markets remained closed.

The bandh began at 6 am.

"This is absolutely a normal Sunday. Schools, colleges, banks and other government offices are closed as other Sundays. That is why it is appearing to be like a bandh. Buses and other vehicles are plying like any other weekend. No untoward incident has been reported from anywhere in the district. There is no bandh here," Purulia District Magistrate (DM) Alokesh Prasad Roy told PTI.

Kumar's (35) body was found hanging from a power transmission tower near the fields in Dava village under Balarampur police station on Sunday morning.

The incident occurred three days after the body of another man, Trilochon Mahato (20), who the BJP said was a member of its youth wing, was found hanging from a tree.

The BJP has alleged the deaths are "political murders" and demanded a CBI inquiry into the incidents.

BJP leaders, including its state women's wing chief, Locket Chatterjee, were scheduled to visit the district today, party sources said.

An unsigned, hand-written note found near Mahato's body had stated that he was "punished for working for the BJP" during the recent rural polls in the state. However, no such note was found in Kumar's case, former SP Biswas had said yesterday.

Kumar's death had outraged the locals, who had protested outside the Balarampur police station yesterday.

The alleged killings have triggered another round of face-off between the TMC and the BJP, which has emerged as a formidable challenger to the ruling party in the state after last month's panchayat polls.

"Distressed to know about yet another killing of BJP karyakarta Dulal Kumar in Balrampur, West Bengal. This continued brutality and violence in the land of West Bengal is shameful and inhuman. Mamata Banerjee's govt has completely failed to maintain law and order in the state," BJP president Amit Shah had tweeted yesterday.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar had also attacked the TMC government over the two deaths, saying, "This is inhuman and the worst kind of crime. We condemn the brutal political murders. The people of West Bengal will definitely teach a lesson to those behind the incidents."

"Nineteen BJP workers have been killed so far (since the panchayat polls). The latest victims are Dulal and Trilochon Mahato," he had added.

TMC secretary-general Partha Chatterjee had said he suspected that the Bajrang Dal had a role in the incidents.

TMC Rajya Sabha member Derek O' Brien had condemned the killings and demanded a detailed probe into those. He had, however, not ruled out the involvement of the BJP, the Bajrang Dal or Maoists in the incidents.

"We strongly condemn this despicable killing. All angles must be probed. The perpetrators of this heinous act must be punished. What role did Jharkhand border have to play? What elements of Bajrang Dal, Maoist or BJP involved. Let the truth be found out through proper investigation (sic)," he had tweeted yesterday after Kumar's body was found.

The West Bengal government has ordered a CID probe into Mahato's killing.

In Purulia, the BJP gave a tough fight to the ruling TMC in the panchayat polls and won 645 seats as against the latter's 839. Of the 38 zilla parishad seats, the TMC bagged 26 and the BJP nine.Havana: Raul Castro, first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) and President Miguel Diaz-Canel have chaired an extraordinary session of the Caribbean nation`s parliament to discuss a constitutional reform.

The meeting on Saturday, which took place at Havana`s convention centre and off limits to foreign press, began with the presence of 572 of the 605 lawmakers to start the process of drafting a new Constitution to reform the one first approved in 1976, Xinhua reported.

Modifying the text responds to the need of legally accompanying the deep process of economic and social reforms that have taken place in Cuba since 2010 without renouncing socialism as the political model in the country.

In the island, the private sector has flourished, after extensive state control for decades over almost all economic activities, and a new law recognising medium and small private businesses is expected to be approved.

The Council of State, top state institution between parliament sessions, on Friday, approved a commission which will draft the new Constitution in a meeting chaired by Diaz-Canel.

The process, which could take months, will later be subject to a massive referendum where more than 9 million Cubans will vote to approve or disapprove the reform.

Other topics that should be included in the reform will be a limit to high government and party posts to two five-year terms.

If approved, current President Diaz-Canel would assume the party leadership in 2021, the year in which Castro concludes his second mandate as first secretary of the PCC for which he was re-elected in its Seventh Congress in April 2016.

At the start of the session lawmakers paid their respects to the victims of the tragic plane crash on May 18 with a minute of silence.

Later, they approved the 10 working commissions of the National Assembly for the next five years which will be responsible for providing input and supervising the constitutional reform process.

Also, parliamentary friendship groups with other countries were approved by lawmakers emphasizing that Cuba`s National Assembly will deepen ties with its counterparts of Russia, Vietnam, Iran and China.

The current Cuban Constitution dates back to 1976 and since then it has had three modifications after popular consultation.Washington: President Donald Trump, under pressure from special counsel Robert Mueller`s investigation into Russia`s role in the 2016 US election, probably has the power to pardon himself but does not plan to do so, his attorney Rudy Giuliani said on Sunday.

Asked whether Trump has the power to give himself a pardon, Giuliani said, "He`s not, but he probably does." Giuliani added that Trump "has no intention of pardoning himself," but that the US Constitution, which gives a president the authority to issue pardons, "doesn`t say he can`t."

Speaking on ABC`s "This Week" program, Giuliani added, "It would be an open question. I think it would probably get answered by, gosh, that`s what the Constitution says."

Mueller is investigating whether Russia meddled in the presidential election and whether Trump`s campaign colluded with Moscow. Mueller, whose investigation already has led to criminal charges against Trump campaign aides including former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, is also looking into whether Trump unlawfully sought to obstruct the Russia investigation.

Both Russia and Trump deny collusion, and the president has denied obstructing the probe.

Giuliani noted that the political ramifications of a self-pardon could be severe. Giuliani told NBC`s "Meet the Press with Chuck Todd" that "the president of the United States pardoning himself would just be unthinkable. And it would lead to probably an immediate impeachment."

Under the Constitution, a president can be impeached by the House of Representatives and then removed from office by the Senate.

The possibility of a self-pardon appeared to be raised in a Jan. 29 letter from Trump`s lawyers to Mueller, published by the New York Times on Saturday, arguing that the president could not have obstructed the probe given the powers granted to him by the Constitution.

"It remains our position that the President`s actions here, by virtue of his position as the chief law enforcement officer, could neither constitutionally nor legally constitute obstruction because that would amount to him obstructing himself, and that he could, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon if he so desired," Trump`s lawyers wrote.

The letter did not explicitly describe the possibility of Trump pardoning himself.

Whether Trump may pardon himself is a matter of some debate.

A Justice Department memo dated four days before former President Richard Nixon resigned in 1974 during the Watergate political corruption scandal took the view that "under the fundamental rule that no one may be a judge in his own case, the President cannot pardon himself."

House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, a Republican, made clear he did not think Trump or any other president should pardon himself. "I don`t think a president should pardon themselves," he told CNN`s "State of the Union."

Former Manhattan US Attorney Preet Bharara, fired by Trump last year along with numerous other federal prosecutors, said it would be "outrageous" for a sitting president to pardon himself and that doing so would represent "almost self-executing impeachment."

"Whether or not there is a minor legal argument that some law professor somewhere in a legal journal can make that the president can pardon, that`s not what the framers could have intended," Bharara said on said on CNN`s "State of the Union" program, referring to the authors of the Constitution.

Trump has not been shy about using his pardon power.

The president on Thursday pardoned conservative commentator and filmmaker Dinesh D`Souza, who pleaded guilty in 2014 to U.S. campaign finance law violations.

Trump also said he was considering pardoning lifestyle maven Martha Stewart and commuting the prison sentence of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, convicted of corruption charges. Critics accused Trump of subverting the rule of law.

Giuliani told ABC it is an "open question" whether Trump would sit for an interview with Mueller but that the president`s lawyers were leaning against having him testify.

Giuliani also said the president`s legal team planned to challenge any potential subpoena from Mueller`s office as harassment or as unnecessary because the White House has turned over more than a million documents and several witnesses.

Trump took to Twitter on Sunday to again rage against the FBI and Justice Department, saying he would not have hired Manafort if he had been told Manafort was already under investigation.

"As only one of two people left who could become President, why wouldn`t the FBI or Department of `Justice` have told me that they were secretly investigating Paul Manafort (on charges that were 10 years old and had been previously dropped) during my campaign? Should have told me!" Trump tweeted.

"Paul Manafort came into the campaign very late and was with us for a short period of time ... but we should have been told that Comey and the boys were doing a number on him, and he wouldn`t have been hired!" Trump wrote, referring to former FBI Director James Comey, who Trump fired last year.JERUSALEM/ GAZA: Gaza militants fired rockets at Israel on Saturday drawing retaliatory Israeli air strikes on Hamas sites, the Israeli military said, a few days after the area`s most intense fighting in years.

At least four projectiles were fired from Gaza at Israel, the military said in a statement, adding that three were intercepted and one fell short.

Rocket alerts sounded in Israeli towns and villages near the border after dark, sending residents rushing to shelters. None of Gaza`s militant groups claimed responsibility for the rocket fire.

Residents in Gaza said Israeli aircraft struck at least three sites belonging to Hamas, the Islamist group which controls the enclave.

The Israeli military confirmed in a statement it had carried out the air strikes, adding that "the Hamas terror organization is solely responsible for all events that transpire in the Gaza Strip and emanate from it."

There were no immediate reports of casualties in any of the incidents.

Israel and Palestinian armed groups in Gaza reached a de facto ceasefire this week after the most intense flare-up of hostilities since a 2014 war, both sides signalling they did not want a wider escalation.

Militants from Hamas and Islamic Jihad fired dozens of rockets and mortar bombs at southern Israel throughout Tuesday and overnight into Wednesday, to which Israel responded with tank fire and air strikes on more than 50 targets in the small, coastal enclave.

Violence along the Israel-Gaza frontier has surged in recent weeks. At least 120 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops during mass demonstrations along the Gaza border that began on March 30.

Israel, which has drawn international condemnation for its use of deadly force, says many of those killed were Hamas members and militants trying to launch attacks under cover of the protests.

The Palestinians say most of the dead and the thousands wounded were unarmed civilians against whom Israel was using excessive force.

More than two million Palestinians are packed into the narrow coastal enclave. Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005, but maintains tight control of its land and sea borders, citing security concerns.

Egypt also restricts movement in and out of Gaza on its border.Istanbul: Nine migrants seeking to head to Europe in a speedboat drowned today when the vessel sank off Turkey's Mediterranean coast, state media reports said.

The boat hit trouble off the Demre district of Turkey's Mediterranean Antalya province, a popular holiday spot, the state-run Anadolu news agency said.

As well as the nine who died, five were rescued while one person was still missing, it added.Seoul: Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said he plans to visit North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, Pyongyang's state media reported today, potentially becoming the first head of state to meet Kim inside the isolated country.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet... Kim Jong Un," Assad said, the North's state-run KCNA news agency reported, using the abbreviated version of the country's official name.

The announcement came as anticipation mounts for a historic nuclear summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump in Singapore on June 12, following a whirlwind round of diplomacy.

"The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political calibre and wise leadership of... Kim Jong Un," KCNA cited Assad as saying during a meeting with North Korean Ambassador Mun Jong Nam on Wednesday.

The Syrian president's office refused to comment on the report when contacted by AFP.

Pyongyang and Damascus have maintained warm ties for decades and reportedly shared a military relationship for some years, including during the ongoing Syrian civil war.

Suspicions over chemical weapons trade between Pyongyang and Damascus have been raised in the past by the UN and South Korea.

There were also widespread reports that North Korea helped Syria build a nuclear plant that was destroyed by Israeli bombing in 2007.

Both regimes have been the target of international isolation - Pyongyang over its banned nuclear programme and Damascus for atrocities committed during the seven-year civil war.

Since coming to power in 2011, Kim has not met another head of state in North Korea. He only made his first overseas trip as a leader this year, travelling to China to meet President Xi Jinping, an ally of the reclusive regime.WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump`s lead attorney said that if the special counsel investigating Russia`s alleged meddling in the 2016 U.S. election were to subpoena the president, it would set off a legal battle, according to an ABC News report on Saturday.

Rudy Giuliani, the former New York City mayor who became Trump`s lead lawyer in April, said the two sides would go to court if U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller attempts to subpoena the president.

"If Mueller tries to subpoena us, we`re going to court," Giuliani told ABC News.

In addition to fighting a subpoena, Giuliani told ABC that Trump`s legal strategy as detailed in a January letter to Mueller and published by the New York Times on Saturday still stands.

Trump`s lawyers had argued in the January letter that the president could not have obstructed the probe given the powers granted to him by the U.S. Constitution, the Times report said.

In the letter penned by Trump lawyers John Dowd and Jay Sekulow, it was argued that president has the power to "order the termination of an investigation by the Justice

Department or FBI at any time and for any reason."

In the letter to Mueller, Trump`s lawyers had contended that the Constitution gives the president the power to "terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon," and that meant he could not illegally obstruct the investigation, the Times reported.

The 20-page letter was a response to repeated requests by Mueller`s office asking to interview Trump. Negotiations between Trump`s lawyers and the special counsel on a possible interview have continued ever since.

As part of his investigation, Mueller is looking into the possibility the Trump campaign colluded with Moscow and that Trump subsequently tried to obstruct the probe.

Russia has denied any interference and Trump has repeatedly said there was no collusion or obstruction of justice.

Giuliani did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Mueller`s office declined to comment, while the White House and the two attorneys who wrote the letter - Sekulow, and Dowd - did not reply to requests for comment. Dowd left the president`s legal team in March.

Giuliani said last month that he wanted an interview with Trump to be limited in scope and length, suggesting it to be only 2-1/2 hours and not under oath.

If the president does not consent to an interview with the special counsel and Mueller does subpoena him, the interpretation by Trump`s lawyers of broad executive powers would likely be tested in court if they decided to fight the subpoena.

In arguing that Trump has the power to end an investigation or pardon people, his lawyers left open the possibility that they were referring only to a probe into his former national security adviser, Michael Flynn, and not necessarily an investigation of the president, the Times said.

In an earlier tweet, Trump took what appeared to be a pre-emptive swipe at the Times report shortly before it ran that questioned whether Mueller`s office or the Justice

Department leaked letters from his lawyers.

"When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end?" Trump tweeted earlier on Saturday.The situation in the Joint Forces Operation zone was complicated and controlled over the past 24 hours

The militants violated the ceasefire 28 times over the past 24 hours, eight times they used Minsk-banned weapon. As a result, three Ukrainian soldiers were injured, as the press office of the Joint Forces Operation reported on Facebook.

The situation in the Joint Forces Operation zone was complicated and controlled over the past 24 hours. Active battle actions were being conducted in separate sectors. The units of the Armed Forces were actively defending their positions so it did not allow the enemy to improve its tactical position, the message says.

The situation remained tense near Krymske, Novotoshkivske, Avdiivka, Marinka, Chermalyk and Shyrokyne.

The units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were maintaining active defence and were giving an adequate response to the enemy, the representatives of the press office stressed.

Three Ukrainian soldiers were injured over the past 24 hours. They were hospitalized.

According to the intelligence, three occupants were eliminated and three injured.The official leads the Freedom Party of Austria, which has been supporting the Kremlin's policy for a long time

Heinz-Christian Strache, the head of the far-right Freedom Party of Austria and the Vice Chancellor of Austria, offered to cancel the EU sanctions against Russia. He said that in the interview for Oesterreich outlet.

'It's time to put an end to these outraging sanctions and normalize the political and economic relations with Russia', he said as quoted by Reuters.

The news agency marked that the Freedom Party of Austria has been known for its reputation as the Kremlin's supporter.

It's not the first time that Strache claimed his negative views on the anti-Russian sanctions.

The issue of continuation of anti-Russian sanctions will be considered at the EU Summit, slated for June 28-29.The lawyers of the U.S. President stated that the Constitution empowers him to, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon"

Open source

The lawyers of the U.S. President Donald Trump in their letter to Robert Mueller, the Special Counsel, where they stated that the Head of the U.S. cannot illegally obstruct the investigation into Russias election in 2016, as The New York Times reports referring to the document.

According to the lawyers, the Constitution empowers him (Trump, - ed.) to, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.

They added that if the President is questioned either voluntary or before a grand jury, he risks revealing himself to accusations of lying to the investigators.

Mr. Trumps broad interpretation of executive authority is novel and is likely to be tested if a court battle ensues over whether he could be ordered to answer questions. It is unclear how that fight, should the case reach that point, would play out. A spokesman for Mr. Mueller declined to comment, the news agency reports.

The lawyers stressed that they were reminded of their obligation to protect Donald Trump and his office.

They argued that the president holds a special position in the government and is busy running the country, making it difficult for him to prepare and sit for an interview, the message says.Israel is a partner, but not a member and that NATO's "security guarantee" doesn't apply to Israel

Jens Stoltenberg, the NATO Secretary General, said the Alliance would not assist Israel in case of the conflict with Iran, as The New York Times reports referring to Der Spiegel.

Israel is a partner, but not a member and that NATO's "security guarantee" doesn't apply to Israel, Stoltenberg stated.

He also noted that NATO is not participating in the settlement of the situation in Mideast.

It is not our job, he stressed.

Besides, the NATO Secretary General added that there are arguments among the NATO member states concerning the Iran Nuclear Deal.The President of Belarus noted that not only Russians participated in WWII, but also other nations - Belarusians, Ukrainians, Georgians, Armenians, Tajiks, Turkmen

Open source

Somebody in Russia is tempting to privatize the victory in the World War II, as Aleksandr Lukashenko, the President of Belarus, stated during his visit to the Brest Fortress on May 2, the Presidents website reports.

This is how he commented on the information that appeared in Russian media, which says that Belarus is allegedly conducting historic separatism.

Somebody in Russia, which is surprising, is tempting to privatize this victory. As others did not participate in the war  Belarusians, Ukrainians, Georgians, Armenians, Tajiks, TurkmenThe entire Soviet Union was fighting. Not hundreds and not thousands, hundreds of thousands people died. We have broken and lost every third. The whole Belarus is a monument, Lukashenko stated.

According to him, to share the victory is to grist to the mill of our opponents and adversaries.

They are glad we started this division. And you know where this division started. Therefore, I treat such statements, that someone won alone, extremely negatively, the President added.

He also stated that the Soviet people won and there should not be any privatization.Among the targets were two Hamas munition manufacturing and storage sites and a military compound

Military Air forces of Israel performed counterattack at the defence facilities of Hamas, a radical Palestinian movement near Gaza Strip, as it is reported on IDF (Israel Defence Forces) Twitter page.

Moments ago, IAF fighter jets targeted 10 terror sites in three military compounds belonging to the Hamas terror organization in the Gaza Strip. Among the targets were two Hamas munition manufacturing and storage sites & a military compound  IDF (@IDFSpokesperson) June 2, 2018

Yesterday, on May 2 siren in Israel towns near the border with Gaza activated warning about a rocket and mortar attack. Later, Israeli ballistic defence system Iron Dome intercepted a missile launched from Palestine. The second one has probably fallen down in Gaza Strip.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas exacerbated after the U.S. Embassy in Israe was relocated. 50 members of the Palestinian group died as a result of the confrontations with the Israeli military in Gaza Strip on May 13.

Ukraine news on 112.internationalIt is expected that NATO has to be ready to deploy around 30,000 service members in the conflict zone within 30 days in a crisis situation

Open source

The North Atlantic Alliance intends to enhance the battle readiness of its troops due to the possible threats from Russia, as Welt am Sonntag informed on May 2, Deutche Welle reports.

It is expected that NATO has to be ready to deploy around 30,000 service members in the conflict zone within 30 days in a crisis situation.

The special units of rapid deployment can support the NATO Response Force (NRF) if necessary. The latter comprises 20,000 soldiers who are annually sent on a rotation system for service by the NATO member stated.

It is noted that the plans are to be agreed in details at the level of the Defence Ministers of the Alliance member states at the meeting in Brussels on June 11-12.

The Alliance is going to hold Trident Juncture drills, the biggest one since the times of the Cold War. It is expected that they will take place in autumn 2018. About 45, 000 soldiers of the NATO-countries will participate in them as well as the dozens of the vessels, aircraft involved in the maneuvers near Norway's coast for the responding to the 'imitated threat'.

Russia also intends to hold the large-scale drills 'East 2018' in August-September. It is planned to involve the forces and equipment of Eastern and Central military districts, Nord fleet.

On May 31, Russian  NATO Council had a meeting at the level of the Ambassadors in Brussels, where they discussed the situation in Ukraine, Russias military activities and upcoming training.Petro Poroshenko, the President of Ukraine, expressed confidence that the signed agreement will make it possible to solve some issues of the social sphere concerning the protection of Ukrainians and Ukrainian community in Spain soon

The governments of Ukraine and Spain are finishing the preparation of the new bilateral agreement on social security, which will solve a series of issues of the protection of Ukrainians in Spain. Petro Poroshenko, the President of Ukraine, stated it in his speech after the prayer for Ukraine in Madrid, as 112.ua reports.

At my request, our cooperation with the Spanish friends has resulted in a bilateral agreement on social security replacing the previous agreement signed 22 years ago in 1996, he noted.

Besides, the Head of the State expressed confidence that the signed agreement will make it possible to solve some issues of the social sphere concerning the protection of Ukrainians and Ukrainian community in Spain soon.

Earlier, Petro Poroshenko arrived in Spain on June 2 with an official, and he will stay till June 4. The Head of the state has a series of meeting with Madrids authorities and Ukrainians community.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!)STEPANAKERT, JUNE 3, ARMENPRESS  ARTSAKHPRESS. A peaceful rally has been initiated by veterans in the central square of the capital city of Artsakh on Sunday.

Earlier on June 2, minor protests were prompted by a slight brawl between a few men, including national security agents, in the city on Friday. The incident is currently being probed with several suspects in custody. It is unclear whether or not the national security agents were on-duty. However the repeated calls that the incident was a "household altercation" suggests they were off-duty.

President of Artsakh Bako Sahakyan personally chaired a consultation with security agencies and parliamentary committees regarding the incident, stressing the need for a detailed investigation and that those guilty must be brought to justice.

The countrys parliament even set up an investigative commission for the incident.

During todays rally, senior lawmaker Janna Galstyan delivered remarks, stressing that certain people are trying to take advantage of the situation and manipulate the nature of the incident. She said that what happened was a household altercation, and that certain people are attempting to transform the demonstration in this regard into a political movement, which in her words, can be very dangerous for the unity and security of Artsakh.

She said theyve assembled in the square today in order for the investigation into the case to be just and fair.

Veterans were also delivering speeches, condemning the situation.

Opposition MP Hayk Khanumyan and former MP Vahan Badasyan are also actively engaged in the protest. In addition to household issues, the latter made political statements.

A group of young people had initiated a demonstration earlier on June 2, which was restarted today also. They blocked traffic at Stepanakerts Renaissance Square.

Members of the group said that their demands, which theyve put forward at a meeting with the countrys president yesterday, have not been fulfilled entirely. The demonstrators namely seek the resignation of the countrys police chief, the national security service director and several national security officials.

The protesters also criticized the initiators of the rally of the veterans, claiming that this is an attempt to incite people against one another.

On June 3, First President of Armenia Levon Ter Petrosyan weighed in, calling for order and stability in Artsakh. He said that the intervention and urge of the Armenian leader, Nikol Pashinyan, as the leader of a country which is officially the guarantor of security of Artsakh, is neccessry in the current situation. What happened in Armenia is to say the least inadmissible in Karabakh, Ter Petrosyan said. I mean the mass protests and pressure on the Artsakh government. They can have disastrous consequences for a state which is in a war situation.

He reminded that a similar situation had occurred in 1993, when he and the late prominent military leader and statesman Vazgen Sargsyan immediately boarded a helicopter and arrived in Karabakh for consultations with local government officials.

Hopefully this time also the same will succeed. For this matter, Robert Kocharyan, Serzh Sargsyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan and Samvel Babayan, even through the immediate release of the latter, must use their influence in Karabakh, he said. Babayan is a former military commander who is currently jailed in Armenia on arms trafficking charges.

All disagreements aside, Bako Sahakyan shouldnt be left alone, he said.

ENGLISH: Editor/Translator - Stepan KocharyanPolice are seeking help to find a classic car worth $80,000 stolen from a home in Victoria.

The black 1963 Pontiac Catalina was parked outside a Condon Street home in Kennington, Bendigo.

Police said the Pontiac was parked outside the home between Saturday 6pm and Sunday 7.45am, and between those times it was stolen. Investigators dont know who was involved or how the car was moved from this location.

Police are searching for this Pontiac they said was stolen from outside a home in Bendigo. Source: Victoria Police

Its been described as having white upholstery, white-wall tyres, a chrome pinstripe along the sides, and a yellow Speedways Motors sticker on the back windscreen.

It has 34250H on its licence plates. Police have also released photos of the Pontiac in the hopes of returning it to its owner.

The Pontiac is worth $80,000. Source: Victoria Police

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the online reporting page.A Perth family is appealing for help to bring their little girl home after receiving treatment for a brain turmour in Mexico.

Little Annabelle Nguyen, 5, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2015 and wasnt meant to live past her fourth birthday.

According to a GoFundMe page, Annabelles mother, Sandy, noticed she was rubbing her eyes nearly every night she had a night terror that work her up screaming and crying.

Ms Nguyen rushed her to hospital, and it was later determined she had a tumour. The family tried Chinese medicine in Vietnam, but when that didnt work the parents, despite recommendations not to, flew her to Mexico for treatment.

The parents of little Annabelle Nguyen are appealing for help to bring her home after taking her to Mexico for treatment on a brain tumour. Source: Facebook/ Fighting DIPG with Annabelle

Sandy and Choong Nguyen sold everything, including their home. Its cost them hundreds of thousands of dollars.

In February, doctors in Mexico told the family Annabelles cancer was gone.

I was just speechless, I couldnt say anything. I didnt cry, I didnt laugh I didnt do anything. I was like are you serious?. It was unbelievable, Ms Nguyen told 7 News.

Theres no tumour, theres no activity in her brain at the moment. So, we are very very thankful and very very happy.

The five-year-olds condition has gotten worse. Source: Facebook/ Fighting DIPG with Annabelle

However, Annabelles tumours have since returned. Ms Nguyen wrote on Facebook on Wednesday that the little girl has been in a deep coma for 26 days.

She hasnt woken up since and its getting harder to watch her every day, she wrote.

Its almost unbearable but Annabelle is a very strong girl and she wouldnt like to see us cry. Its very hard to put her sister to sleep at nights and Annabelle supposed to be right next to her. I miss making her breakfast every morning. I miss her giggles.

Anabelle has been in a coma for nearly a month. Source: Facebook/ Fighting DIPG with Annabelle

With the family exhausting their expenses, they are now appealing for help to bring Annabelle home, The Sunday Telegraph reports. They cant afford to keep their little girl in Mexico and cant afford to head back to Australia either since Annabelle needs a breathing apparatus.

Story continues

The distressed mum has reached out to Australian government for help to bring her home.

We cannot afford anything, we are completely out of money, bankrupt, she told the paper.

We cannot stay but we cannot leave either given the circumstances. I want to take Annabelle back for better care and a chance to live.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade told Yahoo7 in a statement is providing consular assistance to an Australian family in Monterrey, Mexico.

Due to privacy obligations we are unable to provide further information, the spokesperson said.Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday sought to persuade voters in the heartland of Turkey's Kurdish minority to vote for him in June 24 polls, arguing his party had done the most to rebuild the area and find peace after years of violence. Erdogan told a mass rally attended by thousands in the Kurdish-majority southeastern city of Diyarbakir that the area was enjoying "peace like never in the last 40 years" and that the "state had never been so close to the people". The authorities are still battling the insurgency that dates back to 1984 of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) which initially took up arms for a separate state but now demands more autonomy. Erdogan backed peace talks in the early years of the decade but a ceasefire collapsed in 2015 and there have been deadly clashes ever since. Turkey's Kurds, estimated to make up at least one fifth of the population, will be crucial in determining the outcome of the parliamentary and presidential polls. While large numbers are expected to vote for the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) which is focused on Kurdish interests, Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has been able to count on solid support from religiously conservative Kurds. Erdogan launched a lacerating attack on the HDP, saying "we (the AKP) build but they destroy". "They (the HDP) are here for destroying this country.... Are you ready to teach them the right lesson on June 24?" he asked. The AKP accuses the HDP of being the political front of the PKK and being complicit in militant violence, charges the party denies. The HDP's former co-leader and one of Erdogan's challengers in the presidential race, Selahattin Demirtas, has been in jail since November 2016 on hugely controversial terror propoganda charges. Erdogan accused Demirtas of having blood on his hands over the deaths of dozens of mainly Kurdish protesters in October 2014 rallies he called that turned violent. "Sooner or later he will pay the price," Erdogan said. Erdogan rejected the description by Kurdish activists and politicians that Turkey has a "Kurdish problem", saying: "We face just one problem, a terror problem. With thanks to God, we are also solving this." Three Turkish soldiers were killed Sunday in the Hakkari province further to the east by PKK fighters, state media said. Diyarbakir has never been an AKP stronghold with 67.6 percent voting 'no' in the 2017 referendum on Erdogan's plan to give the presidency more powers. In the November 2015 parliamentary elections, the HDP won 70 percent of the vote in the Diyarbakir region and the AKP just 22 percent. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan holds a campaign rally ahead of June 23 polls in Diyarbakir, the heartland of Turkey's Kurdish minorityAn Iraqi court Sunday jailed a French woman for 20 years for belonging to the Islamic State group as her lawyers accused authorities in Paris of "interference" to prevent her returning to France. Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country, and was set to be deported back to France. But another court ordered the re-trial of the 27-year-old French citizen under Iraq's anti-terror law. On Sunday she was found guilty of membership of IS and handed a life sentence -- which in Iraq is equivalent to 20 years. "I am innocent," Boughedir told the judge in French. "My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said. "I am opposed to the ideology of the Islamic group and condemn the actions of my husband," she added. Her Iraqi lawyer, Nasureddin Madlul Abd, urged the court to acquit Boughedir, describing her spouse as a "jailkeeper not a husband" who had "forced" her to join him in Iraq. Her French defence team -- William Bourdon, Martin Pradel and Vincent Brengarth -- said they were "relieved" she had been spared the death penalty, but vowed to appeal the verdict. In Paris, the foreign ministry said France respected sovereign Iraqi justice. "We note that the judicial procedure is not over," the ministry told AFP. "France will continue to respect the sovereignty of Iraqi jurisdiction and the independent judicial proceedings." Boughedir, who wore a black dress and headscarf, arrived in the courtroom carrying her youngest daughter in her arms. Her three other children are now back in France. Hers is the latest in a series of verdicts doled out to foreigners who flocked to join IS in its self-declared "caliphate" after the jihadist group seized the northern third of Iraq and swathes of Syria in 2014. On May 22, an Iraqi court sentenced Belgian jihadist Tarik Jadaoun, also known as Abu Hamza al-Beljiki, to death by hanging -- although he pleaded not guilty to a range of terror charges. Jadaoun had earned the moniker "the new Abaaoud", after his compatriot Abdelhamid Abaaoud, one of the organisers of November 2015 attacks in Paris. - 'Unacceptable interference' - Even before she was sentenced, Boughedir's case sparked anger from her defence team, who had accused French authorities of interfering. On Thursday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Boughedir was a "Daesh (IS) terrorist who fought against Iraq" and should be tried on Iraqi soil. Her French lawyers sent a letter of protest to Le Drian, seen by AFP, in which they denounced "pressure on the Iraqi judicial system" and "unacceptable interference". Bourdon on Sunday condemned the verdict, saying it had been influenced by "extra-judicial reasons". During the hearing, which lasted about one hour, the judge asked Boughedir -- who was arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul -- to explain why and under what circumstances she had arrived in Iraq. He then declared that "the proof that has been gathered is enough to condemn the criminal" to a life sentence. Bourdon said Le Drian wanted his client to be tried in Iraq to "ensure that she won't be heading back home to France any time soon", as part of efforts to prevent the return of jihadists. Boughedir's family and her defence team want her to face a court in France, Bourdon said. After being sentenced in February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry, she was set to be deported home. But upon re-examining her file, an Iraqi court said she had "knowingly" followed her husband to Iraq to join IS. - Second Frenchwoman sentenced - Boughedir's husband is believed to have been killed during operations by US-led coalition-backed Iraqi forces to regain control of Mosul, Iraq's second city and the jihadists' former stronghold. On Sunday she told the court that the man she had been married to for five years had disappeared one day, walking out and saying he was going out "to look for water". Since then, she said, she had received no information about his fate or his whereabouts. Boughedir is the second French citizen sentenced to life in prison by an Iraqi court for belonging to IS, after Djamila Boutoutaou, 29, in April. Boutoutaou also said she had been tricked by her husband. Thousands of foreign fighters from across the world flocked to the black banner of the jihadists after the group seized swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014. Multiple offensives have since reduced their "caliphate" to a sliver of desert in the east of war-torn Syria. Iraqi courts have sentenced to death more than 300 people, including dozens of foreigners, for belonging to IS, judicial sources have said. Dozens of French citizens suspected of having joined IS are believed to be in detention in Iraq and Syria, including several minors. File photo taken on February 19, 2018, of French citizen Melina Boughedir carrying her son as she arrives to court in the Iraqi capital Baghdad where on June 3, 2018 she was sentenced to life in jail for membership of the Islamic State group Iraq's second city Mosul, seen here on May 11, 2018, lies devastated after a years-long jihadist occupation and a months-long offensive to reseize itWar, corruption scandals, a spell in prison -- the career of veteran Slovenian centre-right leader Janez Jansa, leading in Sunday's election, has truly seen it all. And now, with nearly all the votes counted, his SDS party looks to have won just over 25 percent of the vote, putting him in a strong position to seek a third stint as prime minister. But first Jansa, 59, will have to find coalition partners -- no easy task as so many of Slovenia's other parties have said they won't work with him. His close alliance to Hungary's authoritarian prime minister and his aping of Viktor Orban's anti-immigration rhetoric stirred controversy over the course of the campaign. "Thanks to its (migration) policy, Hungary is a safe country, while Belgium, due to its wrong policy, isn't," read a recent Jansa tweet. Despite condemnation from other parties his campaign proved effective, particularly the way in which Jansa stirred memories of the migration crisis in Europe in late 2015 and early 2016. And Jansa benefited from the infighting among the parties in the outgoing coalition, according to analyst Janez Markes. "(Jansa) didn't need to do anything. Just stand there, laugh quietly and stay calm, and put his basket out to collect the votes of those fighting among themselves," Markes said in the Delo newspaper. - 'Prince of Darkness' - Jansa's staying power, coupled with his abrasive personality, once led former President Danilo Turk to dub him Slovenia's "Prince of Darkness". Like his close ally Orban, Jansa's career stretches back to the pro-democracy movements that brought about the collapse of communism. He wasn't even 30 when he first came to prominence as one of four dissidents prosecuted for their criticism of Yugoslavia's Serb-dominated army. They were eventually freed after huge demonstrations. Named defence minister in Slovenia's first democratically-elected government in 1990, he oversaw a guerrilla strategy which ended in the retreat of Yugoslav troops in the Ten-Day War for independence. Forced to resign in 1994, he staged the first of many comebacks in 2004, winning his first term as prime minister just after Slovenia joined the European Union and overseeing entry to the eurozone in 2007. - Campaigning from jail - However, on the eve of the 2008 elections he was implicated in a bribery scandal connected to a 278 million euro ($324 million) deal with Finnish company Patria -- Slovenia's biggest defence deal ever -- and a spell in opposition beckoned. But neither the scandal nor the fact that he came second in elections in late 2011 stopped him from embarking on a second term as prime minister a few months later. In 2013, only a year into his second term, he was forced out by another corruption scandal and subsequently given a two-year jail sentence for a bribery conviction relating to the Patria case. He ploughed on regardless, contesting parliamentary elections in 2014 from his cell in Dob prison near Ljubljana. The bribery conviction was later overturned by the Constitutional Court -- it ordered a retrial, but that couldn't take place as too much time had elapsed. Not content with his freedom, Jansa then demanded 900,000 euros ($1.04 million) in compensation from the state for having lost the 2014 elections - the case is ongoing. Now he stands on the brink of yet another comeback, reinventing himself once again as part of Europe's growing anti-migrant populist movement. Janez Jansa (R)and his wife Urska Bacovnik leave a polling station after voting in the small village Sentilj, as the veteran leader on top in the results appears ready to make yet another comebackFive Gold Coast residents are without a home after their asbestos-ridden unit complex was destroyed by fire on Saturday.

One unit owner was arrested by police after his dangerous attempt to get back inside the Burleigh Heads property.

Tenant Troy Mortimer had been out checking the surf and returned home when the building was ablaze.

As police urged onlookers to evacuate, the 37 year-old allegedly refused, trying to rescue his three year old dog.

Mr Mortimer claimed, I could hear him yelping and the fire brigade and police arrived at the same time.

He was charged with obstructing police.

One unit owner was arrested by police after he allegedly attempted to get back inside the property. Source: 7News

Mr Mortimer said he could hear his three-year-old dog yelping. Source: 7News

His dog escaped unharmed.

I climbed up a tree to get up onto the balcony, and Im so glad Ive still got my eyebrows, Mr Mortimer said.

Thick smoke poured from the Burleigh Heads street as fierce flames devoured three units.

Power lines were just like bursting and stuff and dad was like really close, one witness told 7News.

Thick smoke poured from the Burleigh Heads street as the blaze took hold on Saturday. Source: 7News

The blaze took hold around 10am on Saturday.

And in about two minutes time there were flames coming out of every window in the property, said Chris Robinson from Queensland Fire and Emergency Service.

An exclusion zone was set up around the property and neighbouring residents were urged to close their windows and doors to avoid breathing in asbestos.

Fire investigators spent the afternoon trying to determine the cause as residents returned to start sifting through what they have left.Nine migrants, including six children, seeking to head to Europe in a speedboat drowned on Sunday when the vessel sank off Turkey's Mediterranean coast, state media reports said. The boat hit trouble off the Demre district of Turkey's Mediterranean Antalya province, a popular holiday spot, the state-run Anadolu news agency said. Five were rescued while one person was still missing, it added. Two adults, one woman and six children lost their lives, it said. The Dogan news agency said that they were seeking to head illegally to Europe but their planned route was not immediately clear. The nearest EU territory is the small Greek island of Kastellorizo to the west which lies off the Turkish resort of Kas. The nationalities of those on board have yet to be made clear. Over a million people, many fleeing the war in Syria, crossed to European Union member Greece from Turkey in 2015 after the onset of the bloc's worst migration crisis since World War II. Turkey struck a deal with the EU in 2016 in a effort to stem the flow of migrants into Europe, and agreed to take back illegal migrants landing on Greek islands in exchange for incentives including financial aid. The deal, chastised by rights groups, sharply curbed the number of migrants seeking to cross the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas from Turkey to Greece. However observers say that the numbers seeking to cross this route have been ticking up again in recent months. According to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), 10,948 people crossed to Greece this year up to May 30, sharply more than in the same period in 2017. Thirty-five people lost their lives using this route so far this year, according to the IOM. As well as migrants from countries such as Syria, Eritrea, Iraq and Afghanistan, the route has been used by Turkish citizens fleeing the crackdown that followed the 2016 failed coup. Refugees and migrants on a dinghy approach Mytilene on the northern island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey on February 19, 2016 Map showing the location in the Mediterranean off the Turkish coast where many people drowned after the speedboat they were in sankPhilippine President Rodrigo Duterte apologised to Kuwait on Sunday for his "harsh" words at the height of a months-long diplomatic row over the treatment of domestic workers. The spat began in February when a murdered Filipina maid was found in her employer's freezer in the Gulf state, prompting Duterte to lash out at the "inhuman" treatment of migrant workers and ban workers from travelling to Kuwait. "For the first time I would say that I was harsh in my language maybe because that was a result of an emotional outburst. But I'd like to apologise now," Duterte said, addressing Kuwait directly in a speech before expatriate Filipinos living in South Korea. "I'm sorry for the language that I was using but I'm very satisfied with... how you responded to the problems of my country." Authorities in Manila say around 262,000 Filipinos worked in Kuwait before February, with many employed as household maids. They are among over two million Filipinos employed in the region, whose remittances are a lifeline to the Philippine economy. At the height of the diplomatic flap, Duterte alleged Arab employers routinely rape Filipina workers, force them to work 21 hours a day and feed them scraps. "Is there something wrong with your culture? Is there something wrong with your values?" the Philippine leader said then. Kuwaiti authorities expelled Manila's envoy in April over footage showing embassy staff helping Filipino workers flee allegedly abusive bosses in Kuwait. Tensions cooled last month after the two nations sealed an agreement on workplace safety guarantees for Filipinos working in Kuwait, prompting Duterte to lift the employment ban. On Sunday, Duterte said he hoped to visit Kuwait to express his gratitude. "I'd like to thank the Kuwaiti government for understanding us and keeping their faith (in) us and practically (giving in) to all of my demands," Duterte said. His demands included giving Filipino workers a day off and seven hours of sleep each night, as well as allowing them to keep their passports and phones -- often confiscated by employers, Duterte said. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte says he is sorry for the "harsh language" he directed at Kuwait during a diplomatic spat earlier this yearThe growing popularity of English as a medium of instruction at Dutch universities is ringing alarm bells among local lecturers and students, with some now even calling for government intervention. As Shakespeare's mother tongue spreads in lecture halls across the county's 14 universities, the Dutch education department is finalising a proposal to deal with the matter. Britain's exit from the European Union next year has only accelerated the phenomenon, with international students flocking to the Netherlands which provides an ideal base for those wishing to study in English within the EU. Some 90 percent of the Dutch population speaks English, to the envy of many of its less anglo-competent neighbours. To add to the attraction, many local universities are much cheaper than their British or US-based counterparts. English usage is particularly dominant at Master's degree level. Some "65 percent of bachelor's degrees are in Dutch while 15 percent of master's degrees are in Dutch," education ministry spokesman Michiel Hendrikx told AFP. That some 85 percent of all master's degrees are presented in English riles the largest teachers' association, whose acronym BON stands for "Better Education Netherlands" in Dutch. "The Dutch language is gradually disappearing from campuses," lamented BON's chairman Ad Verbrugge, stressing the "seriousness" of an "unprecedented situation in Europe." - 'Languicide' - Pressed by heated debate from campus to parliament, the Dutch Education Ministry will soon publish a letter "with the minister's position on the subject," Hendrikx said. This follows a report in February by the Royal Dutch Academy for Arts and Sciences (KNAW), which blasted the Netherlands for "failing to properly protect and uphold the quality of Dutch as a language and over-estimating the importance of English". "Universities are forced to offer courses in English to remain in the race" for international students in Europe, said Verbrugge, a philosophy professor at the University of Amsterdam. "We are witnessing a 'languicide'," he told AFP. "We always advocate diversity but here we're killing a minority language." "We must preserve all European languages and cultures ... Dutch students no longer master their native tongue," he added. - Lawsuit - Verbrugge and BON have now launched a lawsuit against two Dutch universities they accuse of killing the Dutch language through the 'Anglicisation' of courses. The eastern Twente University and the southern University of Maastricht offer two master's degree courses in psychology exclusively in English. BON called it an "impoverishment of the teaching quality and a dangerous abandonment in the learning of the Dutch language." "We must call the universities to order because they're violating the law," which states that all lesson and exams must be in Dutch, the union said. An exemption can only be made when the subject matter was directly related to a different language such as English, for instance in international business management studies. BON says the effects of such a language policy can even be seen in the labour market. Young expatriates graduating in English at Dutch universities are often tempted to remain in the Netherlands which has a flourishing economy and pleasant living environment, thus taking jobs from local graduates, it said. Verbrugge said BON was unsure whether the lawsuits would be successful "but at least we've raised the issue for discussion." Many Dutch students agree, saying they did not understand the value of "pretending to be English in front of a lecturer who is just as equally Dutch." As Shakespeare's mother tongue spreads in lecture halls across the Netherlands, alarm bells are ringing among local lecturers and students who fear English is displacing DutchNearly 3,000 people marched in the Belgian city of Liege on Sunday to honour the three victims of a shooting there last week that prosecutors are treating as a terrorist attack. The marchers, most dressed in white, made a solemn procession through the city's sunny streets before laying white roses at the scene of the attack by Benjamin Herman, who shot dead two policewomen and a student on Tuesday. Hundreds of white balloons were released into the sky at the culmination of the march, which comes ahead of official funerals on Tuesday for the two slain officers, who have both been posthumously awarded Belgium's highest civilian decoration. "I think it's important to be here, just to support the family, not to change things. Just to show to the family that we are here and support them," Marie Pousset, who was among nearly 3,000 marchers according to local police, told AFP. Government officials and a representative of Belgium's king are set to attend the funerals for police officers Lucile Garcia, 54, and Soraya Belkacemi, 44, on Tuesday morning. Student Cyril Vangriecken, 22, shot dead by Herman as he sat in the passenger seat of a parked car, will be buried on Monday. Belgian police have identified Herman, 31, as a serial offender who spent a decade in and out of prison for acts of violence and petty crimes and came into contact with extremist Islamists while in jail. Herman attacked the two policewomen with a knife, stabbing them repeatedly before taking their service pistols and shooting them, then Vangriecken. Herman went on to hole up in a nearby school, briefly taking a cleaner hostage before bursting out to confront police and being cut down in a hail of bullets. The Islamic State group claimed one of its "soldiers" was responsible for the attack, through its Amaq propaganda agency. IS said "he led the attack in response to calls to target the countries of the US-led international coalition," which is fighting the jihadist group, mainly in Syria. Prosecutors said Herman's method of attack has been encouraged in online videos from IS, which claimed a deadly double suicide bombing in Brussels in 2016. The marchers laid white roses at the scene of the attack, in which gunman Benjamin Herman shot dead two policewomen and a studentPresident Donald Trump's top economics advisor acknowledged Sunday the trade dispute with US allies could jeopardize the booming American economy but dismissed criticism of the administration's stance as overblown. Larry Kudlow's remarks came after finance ministers from the Group of Seven industrialized countries on Saturday expressed outrage over US-imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum and called on Washington to reverse course. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was especially irked by the US invoking national security as justification for tariffs, calling it "frankly insulting and unacceptable." "The idea that our soldiers who have fought and died together in the mountains of Afghanistan and stood shoulder to shoulder, somehow this is insulting to them," he said in an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press." Kudlow played down the concerns in an interview on Fox News Sunday. "It think he's overreacting," he said of Trudeau. "As a fine friend and ally of the United States, nobody denies that. But the point is we have to protect ourselves." Kudlow acknowleged that the dispute over trade could jeopardize a US economy that is now "clicking on all cylinders," with surging growth and low unemployment. "It might. I don't deny that. You have to keep an eye on it," he added. But Kudlow defended Trump's actions as aimed at reforming a global trading system rife with rule-breaking. "Don't blame Trump. Blame China, blame Europe, blame NAFTA. Blame those who don't want reciprocal trading, tariff rates and protections. Trump is responding to several decades of trade abuses here," he said. Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland warned in an interview on CNN that the US tariffs would hurt American companies and consumers first and foremost. "We know that beggar-thy-neighbor policies don't work. That was the lesson of the 1920s and the 1930s," she said. "And I really hope people will take some time to reflect on the lessons of history, and not go down that path again." Larry Kudolow, a top US economic advisory, says the US trade dispute with allies could impact the US economySome 18,000 troops from 19 mostly NATO countries begin annual US-led military exercises in Poland and the Baltic states on Sunday to boost combat readiness on the alliance's eastern flank as it faces an increasingly assertive Russia. The eighth Saber Strike manoeuvres, which will run until June 15, come after it was revealed Poland is considering a proposal to welcome a permanent deployment of US troops to the country. A Polish defence ministry "information document" emerged this week showing that Warsaw could spend between $1.5 to $2 billion (1.3 to 1.7 billion euros) to help cover the cost of stationing a US tank unit in Poland. The proposal triggered immediate criticism from Moscow, with the Kremlin insisting that any such deployment "will not benefit in any way the security and stability on the continent". The US has ramped up its presence on NATO's eastern flank and notably Poland since Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. The US army set up a new European headquarters in Poland in May 2017 to command some 6,000 of its troops deployed in NATO and Pentagon operations in the region. The move was one of the largest deployments of US forces in Europe since the Cold War and was meant to reassure NATO's easternmost allies spooked by Russia's frequent military exercises near their borders and the Crimea annexation. - Cementing ties - The US also leads a multi-national NATO battle group in Poland. Germany, Britain and Canada command three others in nearby Baltic states Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, where Saber Strike manoeuvres are planned. Speaking in Warsaw on Monday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said he expected leaders at a July NATO summit in Brussels to "make decisions on reinforcement, readiness and military mobility" of forces in Europe, particularly with regard to the four battle groups deployed in 2016. Further cementing strong defence ties with Washington, Poland signed a $4.75-billion (3.8-billion-euro) contract in March to purchase a US-made Patriot anti-missile system, in its largest-ever weapons deal. Moscow complained about the prospect of the deployment of Patriot systems in Poland and Romania, which it says violates a 1987 arms treaty and could be tailored to shoot missiles at Russia. In February, Lithuania accused Russia of permanently deploying nuclear-capable Iskander ballistic missiles to its Kaliningrad exclave. This year's Saber Strike manoeuvres will be partly held in this sensitive region. NATO troops during Saber Strike military exercises in Poland last yearGroup of Seven finance ministers ended their annual meeting Saturday with US allies united in condemning Washington's aggressive protectionism, calling on President Donald Trump to reverse his decision to impose punishing metal tariffs. The lack of common ground meant the dispute would continue into next week's G7 summit in Quebec, Canada, where Trump is expected to face other heads of state as the global economy verges on outright trade conflict. At this snow-capped mountain resort north of Vancouver, British Columbia, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was the odd man out. Major trading partners rebuked Trump's multi-front trade offensive while their governments announced countermeasures and legal challenges. One after another, finance ministers and central bankers spoke of exasperation and an abiding sense of betrayal by a longtime ally. Mnuchin, however, downplayed the disagreements and said the United States was committed to the G7 process. Announcing the meeting's close, Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau said the host government and five others had urged Mnuchin to relay their "unanimous concern and disappointment." "We said that we were collectively hoping that he would bring the message back of regret and disappointment at the American actions and concern that they are not constructive," said Morneau. French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire also expressed France's outrage as the meetings ended. "I want to make it clear," Le Maire said, "that it is up to the US administration to make the right decisions to alleviate the situation and ease the difficulties." Avoiding trade war "will depend on the decision the (US) administration is ready to take in the next few days and in the next few hours -- I'm not talking about weeks ahead," he added. German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz told reporters the US tariffs were "a very severe problem" for transatlantic relations. "No one understands that due to security reasons there should be extra tariffs on steel and aluminum," he said. Trump's tariffs on America's largest foreign providers of the crucial metals that went into effect Friday upended the agenda for this normally convivial event for consensus-building among countries that account for about half of global GDP. No joint final statement emerged from the G7 ministerial meeting, a sign of the strong discord now at the heart of the global economy. How the White House would deal with this remained unclear. As the ministers' meet ended, Trump was as bellicose as ever, taking to Twitter to denounce "stupid trade" in which he said the US saw foreign tariffs on its exports without responding in kind. "When you're almost 800 Billion Dollars a year down on Trade, you can't lose a Trade War! The US has been ripped off by other countries for years on Trade, time to get smart!" he wrote. Counting trade in both goods and services, the US trade deficit was $566 billion in 2017, a 12 percent increase marking its highest level since the 2008 Great Recession. - Getting an earful from allies - Chairing a meeting on Friday, Morneau allowed participants to register grievances with Mnuchin one at a time, according to a Canadian source. Behind closed doors, sources briefed on the talks said Mnuchin listened but spoke little, saying instead the discussion could continue at next week's G7 summit in the French-speaking province of Quebec at which Trump is expected to participate. Mnuchin said he had informed Trump of his discussions but that trade was only one of many issues on a full agenda. "These are our most important allies or some of our most important allies. We've had long-standing relationships with all these countries that are very important across all different aspects," Mnuchin told reporters. "I believe there was a comment out there that this was the G6 plus one. It was not. This was the G7. We believe in the G7." The week's whirlwind global developments in trade suggested a quick de-escalation was unlikely. Trump has suggested the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement might be scrapped in favor of seeking bilateral agreements with Canada and Mexico. G7 governments were also digesting Trump's threats to impose tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars in US auto imports on purported national security grounds. In China, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross was conducting trade talks with Chinese officials even as Washington finalizes planned sanctions on Beijing. Potential measures include restrictions on Chinese investment in the United States, new export controls and 25 percent tariffs on about $50 billion in tech-sector goods. The talks come despite the Trump administration's apparent announcement last month of a truce with Beijing following talks in Washington last month. China has threatened to hit back with tit-for-tat tariffs on tens of billions of dollars in US goods -- as have Canadian, EU and Mexican authorities. Flags line the entrance of the Fairmont Hotel in the Canadian town of Whistler as it hosts G7 ministerial meeting events German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz (C) and his Japanese counterpart Taro Aso (R), attend the opening of the G7 finance ministers and central bank governors conference in Whistler, British Columbia on May 31, 2018The passage of time seems to have slowed down at Zarif Mukhtarov's paper mill in a village not far from ex-Soviet Uzbekistan's silk road city, Samarkand. Here in the countryside, where rulers of the Timurid Empire once sought a verdant sanctuary from their bustling capital, geese sidle by in pairs and tourists feast on pilau made with local rice from clay-rich soil. Mukhtarov, a 62-year-old Samarkand native, was a potter like his father before he set about reviving a paper-making technique coveted for centuries by much of the known world. Nowadays, he says, the legendary paper once produced in Samarkand has been consigned to history by the bland, white, industrial-made stuff and, of course, computers. But that doesn't stop thousands of guests arriving at his door every year in the village of Koni Ghil, which has become a must-stop on the country's growing tourist trail. "Foreign guests come here to learn more about our traditions and our history," said Mukhtarov. "Local people come here to learn about themselves," he added, as his kite-flying, eight-year-old granddaughter Mekhrubon tore around the workers' yard in a blur of colour. - A riveting tale - The story of how Samarkand emerged as a global paper-making centre is a favourite among historians who study the rise and fall of ancient trade routes linking East Asia and Europe, even if they admit the precise details are hazy. Production there began some time in the second half of the eighth century AD after Chinese troops invaded Central Asia but were defeated by forces under the control of Abu Muslim, a general of the Arab Abbasid caliphate. "Among the Chinese (prisoners) captured were masters in the art of making paper," says Makhmud Nasrullayev, a historian at the University of Samarkand. "In return for their lives being spared, they brought to Samarkand their secret of paper," said Nasrullayev. What separated Samarkand's paper from the Chinese version and saw it gradually displace papyrus across Europe and the Middle East in the coming centuries was its smooth, glossy finish. This meant that it absorbed less ink and could therefore be used for writing on both sides. The paper produced in Samarkand's mills was also far more durable than papyrus. "Samarkand paper was polished with the help of an agate stone," said Mukhtarov, the mill owner, whose paper is the superior of three kinds produced at Samarkand's mills until the 19th century, when the city fell under tsarist control. "The Chinese didn't need to polish their paper because they used brushes to write instead of quills," he added. - From pulp to paper - Mukhtarov's paper comes from the branches of young mulberry trees that are indigenous to Uzbekistan and also used in the production of silk. The branches are cleaned of their bark and peeled into long, fibrous strands that are boiled in a cast-iron pot for four to five hours. The mixture is then pounded to pulp by a trip hammer powered by a quaint, wooden watermill before it is dried and polished. "For thicker paper you need more fibres, for thinner paper, fewer," Mukhtarov said. This gruelling process in some way reflects Mukhtarov's own journey to become an off-the-beaten-track gem on the Uzbek tourism circuit, dominated by striking Islamic architecture in cities like Samarkand and its sisters Bukhara and Khiva. Mukhtarov first began building his paper mill in 2001 but it was only two years ago that it fully returned the investments made by his family. "We had to borrow money from sisters, brothers, cousins. Our relatives sometimes asked: 'What do we need this (paper) for? Better to find some other type of work'!" Nowadays, nobody questions Mukhtarov's vision for the family business, especially as Uzbekistan's government inches away from over two decades of isolation under late ruler Islam Karimov by relaxing restrictions on tourism. But the master craftsman says he is not content to stop at paper production as he beats a path back through the region's storied past. One project he is currently planning is a new wooden mill to press oil from walnuts and flaxseed, which will be used in the pilau he serves to visitors. "Tourists will witness the birth of plov (local name for pilau) before their very eyes!" he exclaimed with enthusiasm. At Zarif Mukhtarov's paper mill in the village of Koni Ghil, outside Samarkand, paper comes from the branches of young mulberry trees that are indigenous to Uzbekistan Samarkand's paper was far more durable than papyrus Making paper is a gruelling process but it has become an off-the-beaten-track tourist attractionSteff Evans has been ruled out of Wales's tour to Argentina after suffering a knee injury in their victory over South Africa. Evans came off during the 22-20 win in Washington and the Welsh Rugby Union confirmed the wing wouldn't be fit in time for the tour. "Steff suffered a knee injury against the Springboks which precludes him from taking any further part in the summer tour," the WRU said on Sunday. "He will return to Wales for further investigations to establish an accurate diagnosis and prognosis." Worcester wing Josh Adams has been called up as replacement for Evans. Tomas Francis has also joined the squad as cover for Samson Lee, who is struggling with a back injury. Scarlets wing Steff Evans will miss Wales's tour of ArgentinaPresident Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on Canadian aluminum and steel imports drew bipartisan criticism from upstate New York lawmakers.

Trump signed proclamations Thursday that will allow tariffs on aluminum and steel imports from some of the United States' biggest allies, including Canada, Mexico and the European Union. The tariffs are the result of a Section 232 investigation, which examines the national security impact of certain imports.

"The Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs have already had major, positive effects on steel and aluminum workers and jobs and will continue to do so long into the future," the White House said in a statement. "At the same time, the Trump administration's actions underscore its commitment to good-faith negotiations with our allies to enhance our national security while supporting American workers."

While the Trump administration believes the tariffs will benefit the U.S. aluminum and steel industries, New York members of Congress are concerned about the potential economic impacts on upstate given the region's and the state's proximity to Canada.

U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican who represents northern New York, opposes the tariffs on Canada and other American allies. She believes the president should focus on Chinese steel dumping, not Canadian imports.

"Imposing these tariffs will raise prices on businesses in our district that use steel and aluminum, and these costs will be passed on to consumers," Stefanik said. "Furthermore, as a Northern Border district, I am concerned that these tariffs could incentivize Canadian firms in our district to leave, or possibly incentivize Canada to impose harmful tariffs on our own products.

She added, "Thousands of manufacturing jobs in the North Country are directly tied to Canada and cross border supply chains, including more than 8,500 in the transportation equipment sector alone."

U.S. Rep. John Faso, a Hudson Valley Republican, shares Stefanik's view that the tariffs will hurt the economy, especially small manufacturers.

In a statement, Faso said there are manufacturers of aluminum window frames, aerospace components and other parts that will be harmed by the tariffs. He also expressed concern about retaliatory tariffs that could harm farms and other U.S. exporters.

"This is a short-sighted action which will hurt our economy and sow chaos among our allies and American manufacturers," he explained.

A western New York Democrat, U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins, questioned the decision not to exempt Canada and other allies from the tariffs.

Higgins called the Trump administration's actions "bizarre."

"This continues a chaotic, disruptive approach to administering our trade laws," Higgins said in a statement. "China continues to be the bad actor globally and enforcement should not ensnare our allies."

The upstate New York delegation isn't united against the tariffs. One member, U.S. Rep. Tom Reed, supports the tariffs.

Reed, a Corning Republican, believes Canada, Mexico and the European had "plenty of time" to reach an agreement with the Trump administration on aluminum and steel imports. He added that Trump is following through on a promise "and standing up for American interests."

"I have no doubt that the disruptive policies of this administration will bring these countries to the table for a fair and negotiated outcome," he said.

Shortly after the Trump administration announced the tariffs, Canadian officials responded with retaliatory measures against U.S. products, including aluminum and steel. The tariffs will also apply to other American products, such as maple syrup and orange juice.

Central New York's congressman, Republican U.S. Rep. John Katko, did not issue a public statement in response to the recent trade maneuvers.

Online producer Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding.

Love 0 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0While people may claim to be shocked by Roseanne Barrs racist tweet about the distinguished former Obama aide Valerie Jarrett, I believe that it was inevitable. One reason is that Barrs career has been built upon shocking remarks and behavior. Even those of us who have never watched her television shows have heard enough about this penchant for rude and crude language and behavior. Her affinity for our current president was pretty much a guarantee that she was going to do something that would push the limits of civility. So it was no surprise that within a few days of the presidents rant describing immigrants as animals, Roseanne implied that Jarrett was more closely related to apes than the rest of us. It was her way of winking at the president, as if to say, Anything you can say, I can say cruder. While Trump has since tried to clarify that he was only referring to the notorious MS-13 gang, his history of remarks renders this explanation laughable. It was yet another example of using coded language to appeal to his most racist followers.

It has been said that slavery is Americas original sin. In her trenchant book, The New Jim Crow, author Michelle Alexander points out that the racist attitudes that led to slavery have been transferred to our prison industrial complex, where blacks and Hispanics are incarcerated disproportionately to their numbers in both the wider population and, more importantly, in the commission of crimes. Blacks and Hispanics do not commit more crimes than white people, but they are incarcerated at a higher rate than whites.

Another statistic that demands repeating during our post-truth presidency is that natural-born Americans commit crimes at a higher rate than first-generation Americans, documented or undocumented. I maintain that it demands repeating because we are living in a time when The Washington Post has documented that Trump averages more than six lies per day in his public statements. Its not a lie or hyperbole when he is called our prevaricator in chief. Outright lies that would have embarrassed previous presidents are accepted as his modus operandi, or part of the deal. I expect that Barr had this in mind when she sent out her tweet.

To paraphrase the nursery rhyme, lies and hate speech may not break any of our bones, but they can make a difference in our perceptions and how we treat one another. The longer that we refrain from doing this, the closer we are getting to the mindset that allowed Hitlers lies to take root and transform Germany from the land of Beethoven, Goethe and Schiller to the death camps of Eichmann, Goering and Himmler. Barr has spoken of the scorn and bigotry that she was subjected to as a Jewish child. Was it a childhood wound that led her to make her racist tweet about Jarrett, or the anti-Semitic calumnies that she has spread about Jewish refugee and billionaire George Soros? I see it as her way of tweeting the message, Im one of you guys to the Trump followers who rejoice in his racist messages and gained pleasure out of seeing one victimized minority attacking another? Not surprisingly, Jarrett shrugged off Roseannes remark and showed her moral superiority to both Trump and Barr.

Ironically, it was just two weeks ago that much of the world celebrated the marriage of Britains Prince Harry and the biracial American actress Meghan Markle. Much of the so-called civilized world was rejoicing at the love that these two young people displayed. I did not wake up to watch the festivities live, but I prayed for their continuing happiness. While Harry represents the fairy tale anachronism of royalty, he has shown himself to be regal as he leads us toward a better world.

Barrs employer, ABC, did the right thing in canceling her show. It would take an act of Congress to cancel the Trump show. But we can show that we are better people than he and Barr think we are. We can do this by challenging our friends and family when they make similarly racist remarks. Rather than laughing along, we can say, That isnt funny. You must feel really bad about yourself if you feel that its OK to make such a remark. The United States is not a perfect country. Our history on race and immigration has sometimes been a source of great shame. Lets have the courage to change, so that mean and ignorant remarks will no longer be acceptable or inevitable.

The Rev. Dr. Stan Sears is a minister with the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Society, which was founded in 1833 and is located at 607 N. Seward Ave., Auburn. Services are held at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. All men, women and children of every race, religious creed, political conviction and sexual orientation are welcome.

Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0Carter Godwin Woodson (1875-1950), the person who originated Negro History Week, was an educator, historian and author.

Carter G. Woodson has been called the father of black history. Although Black History Month has ended for the year, it is not the end of black history. Black history should be talked about, read about and learned about throughout the whole year. Negro history and culture is most important.

Carter was born in New Canton, Virginia, to former slaves James and Anne Eliza Riddle Woodson. They needed the extra income Carter was able to earn working in the coal mines. He was unable to attend school because of this and was not able to write until he was aged 20 years old. Most children went to school at an early age but Carter said Its never too late to learn. He self-taught himself by reading books and listening to the remarks of others. He attended school at the time but did not give up his job at the coal mine; he was going to school and working after school. After he had completed high school, he attended Berea College in Kentucky, where he received his degree in 1903. After taking off three years to teach and serve as a principle of his former high school, he went to the Philippines as a supervisor of schools for four years. Returning to the U.S., Woodson further studied at the University of Chicago, receiving a bachelor's degree in 1907 and his master's degree a year later. A year of study in Europe and Asia, including a semester at the Sorbonne in Paris, was followed by further study in the field of history and political science at Howard University in Washington.

After he had left one of the schools where he was a teacher, he found that none of the schools taught the history of black America. This is when he established Negro History Week to show the importance and accomplishments of black people and their culture. He decided on a week in February 1926. That evolved into what is now called Black History Month in the U.S. Why February? Because it marked the birthdays of two important men who helped the black American population: Fredrick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln. Also significant in Black history is that on Feb. 23, 1868, William Edward Burghardt Du Bois, the civil rights leader and co-founder of the N.A.A.C.P. (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) was born. The 15th Amendment was passed granting black people the right to vote on Feb. 25, 1870. Hiram Rhodes Revels, the first African-American congressman, took the oath of office on Feb. 12, 1979.

Carter Woodson wrote many books on the education of the black person prior to 1861 and the studies of Black Africans, American migration and history of the church. Woodson firmly believed that the achievements of African-Americans helped humans progress to modern civilization.

Auburn resident Pauline Copes Johnson, Harriet Tubman's great-great-grandniece, writes periodic history columns on influential African-Americans.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Japan: An Environmental History

Japan: An Environmental History (Environmental History and Global Change) by Conrad Totman

2016 | ISBN: 1784537438, 1848851162 | English | 384 pages | PDF | 19 MB

From the outset, society in Japan has been shaped by its environmental context. The lush green mountainous archipelago of today supports a population of over 127 million people and one of the most advanced economies in the world. How has this come about? At what environmental cost? Conrad Totman, one of the world's foremost scholars on Japan, here provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the country's environmental history, from its beginnings to the present day. What makes the Japanese story particularly instructive is that the country's boundaries are uncommonly clear and the nature, timing, and extent of external influences on its history are unusually identifiable. The Japanese experience, therefore, not only yields important insights into the processes of environmental history, it offers important lessons for the wider environmental history of the planet. Double Enumeration of Legislative Powers in a Sub-State Context: A Comparison between Canada, Denmark and Finland

Double Enumeration of Legislative Powers in a Sub-State Context: A Comparison between Canada, Denmark and Finland By Markku Suksi

English | PDF,EPUB | 2018 | 119 Pages | ISBN : 3319909207 | 2.05 MB English | PDF,EPUB | 2018 | 119 Pages | ISBN : 3319909207 | 2.05 MB

This book analyses a middle position between single enumerations in a regular federal-like and a regular autonomy-like distribution of legislative powers by examining constitutional legislation in three countries (Canada, Denmark and Finland) that have established separate enumerations for the national level and the sub-state level. The sub-state level consists of provinces in Canada, the Faroe Islands in Denmark and the Aland Islands in Finland. The book provides interpretations of the competence line based on double enumeration between the national parliament and the sub-state entities, where relevant, on the basis of the travaux preparatoires of the fundamental norms on which the arrangements are based, judicial or quasi-judicial resolutions of competence problems, and relevant doctrine and literature.We've detected that JavaScript is not enabled in your browser.

You must enable JavaScript to use craigslist.This unusual move by the city, which rarely dictates policy to its cultural leaders, puts pressure on the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Carnegie Hall, the American Museum of Natural History and other pre-eminent institutions that are led largely by white male executives and power brokers from Wall Street, real estate and other industries.

On Friday, New York Mayor Bill De Blasio - who suggested today that the presence of The New York Post was harmful to his horribly-governed city - announced a "cultural plan" for New York. According to The New York Times , De Blasio looks to "link future funding for museums and arts groups to diversity of their employees and board members."So, no longer will public dollars merely go to artists based on the alleged quality of their work. Now De Blasio will explicitly link those dollars to the skin color and sexual orientation of the artists. As the Times continues:Because the most important thing about art is obviously whether its funders are white. White people's art is simply too stultifying - let alone art by non-white people funded by white people. De Blasio said,Not fairness of opportunity, of course. Equality of outcome, no matter the quality of the work itself. And then De Blasio, who gives practically none of his money to charity, tore into those cultural institutions largely supported by charity: calling them "elitist," he added,So, in other words, if too many white people give money and sit on the board of the Met, De Blasio will look to cut funding to the Met, even if the Met is funding projects by people of color.De Blasio explained,citing the fact that 26 percent of senior staff members of cultural organizations are non-white. Which, of course, is not proof of discrimination of any sort, but is good enough for De Blasio to now promote government discrimination.By the way, De Blasio told the Times that he'd never been to his local museum.But at least the City Council can posture - Melissa Mark-Viverito braged,Perhaps New York should begin by giving back any Rockefeller, Vanderbilt, Ford, and Carnegie cash used to establish major institutions in the city. After all, those are old dead white men.The totalitarianism of the Left won't stop at crackdowns on political viewpoints (Governor Andrew Cuomo famously said conservatives weren't welcome in his state). It extends to art, too. Mao had his cultural revolution, and Maoist-lite De Blasio will have his as well.Now that it is fully apparent, to all who have the ability to pay some modicum of attention, that Imposter President Biden has extreme cognitive issues, in addition to being an inveterate liar: Can OUR Republic continue with this Executive Office that has completely failed, so many times, on far too many issues here at this early date in this abysmal presidency?

No, Joseph R. Biden is completely unqualified, morally and cognitively, to represent real Americans, and lead this Republic of disparate peoples.

Yes, Joseph R. Biden has started whispering again, even softer now than before; so, I know he still cares, plus, OUR media will soon stop reporting on Afghanistan in favor of OUR Socialist ideals.On Friday, the British police arrested Tommy Robinson, founder and former leader of the English Defence League, a far-right anti-Islam group. Robinson is a controversial character, to be sure, a sort of Milo Yiannopoulos lite. His chief focus is on the threat of radical Islam, which he believes threatens the integrity of the British system.You don't have to like Robinson. But whatever you think of him, his arrest is absurd by any measure. You see, Robinson was arrested for standing outside a court building and reporting on a trial involving the alleged grooming of young girls for sexual assault by radical Muslims.Now, what would be illegal about that, you ask? It turns out that Robinson was given a suspended sentence last year for filming outside another court building, where a trial for alleged gang rape by radical Muslims was taking place. He wasn't inside the courtroom. Nonetheless, the judge believed he was somehow biasing the jurors. According to the judge, Robinson was sentenced thanks toThis time, Robinson was again arrested for prejudicing a case, only he wasn't inside the court building. He was outside. And the media were originally banned from reporting on his arrest so that his trial wouldn't be biased. In other words, Britain has now effectively banned reporting that actually mentions the Islamic nature of criminal defendants for fear of stirring up bigotry - and has banned reporting on reporting on such defendants. It's an infinite regress of suicidal political correctness.But at least the Europeans have their priorities straight: While it's perfectly legal to lock up a provocateur covering a trial involving Muslims, the European Union is now considering a ban on products like cotton buds, straws and other plastics for fear of marine litter. And just as importantly, it's now perfectly legal to kill unborn children again in Ireland, where voters - with the help of a cheering press - decided to lift the ban on abortions until the 20th week, condemning thousands of children to death.This is how the West dies: with a tut-tut, not with a bang. The same civilization that sees it as a fundamental right to kill a child in the womb thinks it is utterly out of bounds to film outside a trial involving the abuse of children, so long as the defendants are radical Muslims. The Europeans have elevated the right to not be offended above the right to life; they've elevated the right to not be offended above the right to free speech, all in the name of some utopian vision of a society without standards.Discarding those standards was supposed to make Europeans more free; it was supposed to allow Europeans to feel more comfortable. But the sad truth is that no society exists without certain standards and Europe has a new standard: enforcement of its "tolerance" via jail sentence, combined with tolerance of multiculturalism that sees tolerance itself as a Trojan horse. The notion of individual rights sprang from European soil. Now they're beginning to die there.Illinois lawmakers have want to end inmates' co-payments of $5 for each prison doctor visit  the equivalent of a month's wages in the prison's $0.05/hour and under workshops; in Oregon, they're contemplating creating a $3-5/visit co-pay.



There are 42 states where prisoners pay to see doctors, with the national average at $3.47/visit: for example, Washington State ($4/visit), Oklahoma ($5/visit  equivalent of a $580 co-pay for a minimum-wage worker) and Nevada ($8/visit, highest in the nation). Texas prisoners are billed $100/year (set to double as Texas prisons struggle to stay funded after Republican tax-cuts).

In addition to the cruelty of depriving someone of their liberty and then denying them live-saving medical care, limiting prisoner health-care is financially imprudent, creating the conditions for pandemics that endanger whole prisoner populations, as well as nearby communities. Meanwhile, the co-payments are so small in real-world terms that they do almost nothing to defray prisons' medical costs.





The problem of co-pays in prison is a kind of microcosm of the overall problem of disincentive payments and levies under inequality. The rationale for co-pays is that it reduces frivolous doctor visits by creating a small disincentive that makes people think twice before seeking care. But under conditions of extreme inequality, the one-percenter never even notices the speedbump thanks to the million-dollar suspension that guarantees them a smooth ride; while a poor person faces a thousand-foot-high wall rather than a speedbump, because they don't have wealth to ride on, but rather a ton of debt that they have to push ahead of themselves.





There were a lot of progressives that cheered London's congestion-charge, but for all the good the charge did in reducing emissions in the capital, it's also incredibly discriminatory. People who live inside the c-charge (who are far more likely to be millionaires than people in any other place in the UK) don't pay one penny; bankers who commute in from country estates don't even notice ten or fifteen pounds a day; but struggling builders and tradespeople with white vans who have to drive a vehicle in London to earn their living face a steep erosion of their already barely adequate take-home pay.

The same is true of the argument for charging more for on-street parking: it's important to get our cities off of individual vehicles and into public transit, and parking charges can help fund that, but if you're a cleaner earning $10/hour and you have to pay to park as you shuttle from job to job every day, you're paying a regressively high share of the cost of transitioning to public transit, while the well-off people whose toilets you're scrubbing don't even notice the high cost of parking.

It's a problem that can't be solved within its own parameters. Having gutted progressive income tax and inheritance taxes, creating mass inequality and starving the treasury, we run out of money for transit, health care and environmental remediation. This makes user-fees and "disincentives" seem like a good idea  because it's politically impossible to rebalance inequality through taxation  which bite hardest at the people who can afford it least, and make inequality even worse.





Prisons charge co-pays for similar reasons as free-world health insurers: to cut down on unnecessary medical visits by requiring patients to share in the cost of their care. U.S. prisons spend between $3,000 and $10,000 per inmate per year on medical careabout 20 percent of total prison spendingaccording to a 2014 analysis by the Pew Charitable Trusts. "We want a real-world environment for the prisoners because in the real world you and I would be required to have a copay," Mark Myers, spokesman for the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, told the news site the Frontier. Prisoners in Oklahoma earn 5 cents per hour at the bottom of the wage scale, so the state's $4 co-pay is roughly equivalent to $580 for a minimum wage worker on the outside, the Frontier reported.

The $580 Co-pay [Beth Schwartzapfel/The Marshall Project]

(via Naked Capitalism)Nigerian rapper Falz created This Is Nigeria, a parody of This Is America that switched out lyrics and imagery for social ills in his country: machete-wielding gangs, codeine use, internet scammers, and much more.

NPR broke down each problem referenced in the video:

Unethical preachers [1:47]

A young woman in a white garment is surrounded by a small group of people praying for her. In previous songs, Falz has criticized religious figures for money-making schemes. In "This is Nigeria," Falz gets angrier: "Pastor put his hand in the breast of his member, he is pulling the demon out," he raps. In April 2017, a Nigerian televangelist named Tim Omotoso was arrested and charged with trafficking more than 30 girls and women from various branches of his church, and allegedly sexually exploiting them. Erratic electricity [1:51]

Falz worries that there is "no electricity daily o." Nigerians often complain about this problem.

Falz points out that Nigeria has problems with gun violence and police brutality, too.

 Falz  This Is Nigeria (YouTube / FalzVEVO)News / National

by Staff Reporter

Nelson Chamisa, the MDC Alliance presidential candidate, has courted controversy over statements that he has made at political rallies and other public fora lately.The statements, including political assertions and promises, have earned him "the liar" tag that political observers say may have tarnished his name and could dent his presidential aspirations. MDC-T secretary-general Douglas Mwonzora (DM), however, says Chamisa is not a liar at all and advises that people should learn to distinguish between lies and political banter, including political exaggerations that he says should be expected when people are campaigning. The Standard reporter Blessed Mhlanga (BM) sat down with Mwonzora on Friday to discuss this issue and others to do with the party's preparedness ahead of the forthcoming elections. Below are excerpts from the interview:BM: Are you confident the coming elections will be free, fair and credible?DM: It is possible to have free and credible elections in Zimbabwe. It is possible to implement the electoral reforms that we have been asking for, contrary to what people have been saying. These electoral reforms don't require time. for example, you don't require time to remove the military element within the Zimbabwean Electoral Commission [Zec]. It does not require a day to open up the media space and the democratic space. Further outstanding issues - include the audit of the voters' roll, external audit of the voters' roll  that does not require time at all. We are also calling for inclusive observation of the printing of the ballot paper, an end to the abuse of traditional institutions as well as the military. These demands are not difficult to fulfil at all. They simply require political will.BM: Some people are saying some of your demands now sound like a broken record that you have been playing for a long time, but which you know and understand will not be fulfilled.DM: We must never get tired of making genuine demands. The more we repeat this message, the more it will get into the thick skull of this junta. We should never give up. We have been persevering and it has been bearing fruit. It may have been slow, but it has been bearing fruit and I urge Zimbabweans to be patient and resilient.BM: There are some who think that you are not ready for an election. What is your response?DM: The numbers that we have been drawing at our rallies are there for everybody to see. We are clearly the party with the biggest following in this country at present. Although the MDC has split, it is facing a Zanu PF that has split into five formations. It spilt into NPP, ZimPF, UPP, NPF, Zimbabwe Peoples First, and Zapu. The most fragmented Zanu PF in history is what we are facing today. We are also facing a Zanu PF without a charismatic leader. He (President Emmerson Mnangagwa) does not have oratory skills. He does not seem to have the political mastery that [former president Robert] Mugabe did have. So we know that one-on-one, we are facing a very weak opponent.BM: But in the past the MDC-T has said Mnangagwa was behind Mugabe's electoral victories?DM: The brutality that was perpetrated on the people in the past elections was clearly traceable to him as Mugabe's deputy as well as people who today constitute the core of his establishment. But the difference between this election and the previous elections is the presence of the international community, Commonwealth, European Union, African Union and the Kofi Annan foundation. All these were not welcome in Mugabe's Zimbabwe.BM: Let's talk about the oratory and eloquence skills that you were talking about. MDC Alliance president Nelson Chamisa has been accused of lying most of the time he uses his oratory skills. What do you say about this?DM: The two are different, aren't they? Let me go to the oratory skills of president Chamisa. He is a man of talent and there is no question about it. You put him in front of the people, his speaking abilities are good and he is not disrespectful of the crowd and his opponent. Now sometimes people confuse what you are calling lies and some political banter and political exaggerations that happen when you do campaigns which are meant to express a point. An example is sometimes given to its extremes and I think this is where people have been missing it. But let's go to some of the key messages such as the promise to deliver spaghetti roads: I know that for Zimbabweans to imagine a transport system as elaborate as the system in London is something that is unimaginable. This is because Zimbabweans have set themselves very low standards and when you have someone who gives them a vision with such possibilities, people then think that it is not sensible. Yet it is actually sensible and doable; it is something that other nations have achieved and it is something that some people have actually done. On the issue of so-called spaghetti road networks, South Africans have actually built them and they are there for everyone to see just across the Limpopo. That is the description of the road system that Chamisa has for a future Zimbabwe. We are not thinking of Zimbabwe tomorrow, we are not thinking of Zimbabwe next year, we are thinking of Zimbabwe in the long-term.BM: The recent MDC-T primary elections have been disputed by some of the losers who claim they were manipulated. Have these polls not weakened the party?DM: No, they have not. This is because the MDC system has a safety valve. Any member who is aggrieved by the process has the right to appeal. Right now, this afternoon we are sitting to determine 154 appeals of members who feel for one reason or another that their rights have been infringed. They do have that right to appeal and we hope that when we sit and hear these appeals, we will come to justice. So the availability of an internal remedy makes our people feel more at home in the understanding that if they are not happy about anything they can approach the leadership and their appeals can be heard. Most importantly, once we see that there is electoral fraud, even in the primaries, we have made it a point that we disqualify the person who would've won. We have evidence of people who attempted to cheat in the elections, some people who tried vote-buying, some people who tried to intimidate opponents, some people who tried to steal CVs of their opponents. Once we have that evidence, we disqualify that person. This is different from what happened in Zanu PF where members complained about cheating and so on and the party did nothing about it. At MDC we always do something about it.BM: But we have seen senior officials in the party pulling out of the primaries, people like Jessie Majome and yet you say that you have working safety valves?DM: Yes, we do have such valves because we are actually in the process of dialoguing with Majome. The problem was that she raised her complaint and left before the complaint could be dealt with yet we were willing to deal with the complaint. Right now the chairman's office is actually engaging Majome and we hope that the dialogue will yield something positive.BM : But she says she doesn't know anything about that engagement.DM: Well, the chairman's office is actually dealing with that, and I am not so sure if that is correct to say that she says she does not know about the engagement. If she is right that she doesn't know about it, then she will soon get to know about it.BM: There have been sentiments that there is some sense of entitlement within the MDC-T parliamentarians who feel that they cannot be challenged in their constituencies. Are there such MPs?DM: A number of our MPs were defeated in the primary elections, mostly in Harare. We have very high-profile figures who did not make it in the primaries. We opened up this contest to every member of the party. You do not have special rights in the party simply by virtue of being a parliamentarian. You have the same rights as every other member, especially when it comes to selection for the next parliament. They (incumbent MPs) do have superior rights while they are sitting in parliament before we declare the primary elections open. So it's a pity if anybody has a feeling of entitlement which they should not have.BM: Let's talk about resources: Zanu PF has been splashing on huge campaign billboards and banners, can you match that?DM: Well, we cannot match them resource-wise because they are the government. They have access to resources including national resources. Their president campaigns on the back of the national resource  state resources. He uses a state helicopter, state fuel, state cars and so on and so do his ministers. But we do not need to match them resource for resource. In fact, we only need a quarter of what they have in order to mount a credible fight. Yes, we do not have enough money because our money comes from the government and they give us as and when they feel like and they abuse their power over us. But we have other methods of getting around that disability as the MDC.BM: What is the real beef between Chamisa and Thokozani Khupe?DM: It is a regrettable development, I should confess. It is unnecessary and we are trying to have dialogue between the two leaders. We hope that each one of them finds the wisdom of working together and we are confident that each one of them looks at the greater good of the Zimbabwean people. So the efforts that we are making of engaging them hopefully will help.Going to court, I will tell you as a lawyer of 26 years of experience, that going to court should always be the last thing that people do. A court yields a winner and a loser, but dialogue yields a winner and a winner  so we are going to encourage dialogue.BM: On the issue of the audit of the voters' roll, Zec says they are using inspection as an external method to audit the voters' roll. Does this provide for what you are calling for?DM: Zec has always said that and [Zec chairperson] Justice Priscilla Chigumba in particular, talks like a person who is not a judge when it comes to that. She says that our law does not provide for external audit yet that ought not to be the reasoning. The reasoning must be that our law does not disallow the external audit; the law says in broad terms that Zec must do everything that makes the election system credible and satisfactory. External audit is one of those things, so the misinterpretation with Zec is that the law must specifically demand that. But this is reasonable, this is international practice, that is number one. the second one is that Zec has not provided us with a provisional voters' roll. We did request for it and they didn't give us and they are now saying they published it on their website yesterday and that which is on the website does not comply with the law. It must be electronic, and must be analysable. The one that is on the website is a provisional one and is not analysable. They want to give us the final voters' roll after nomination, yet we need the voters' roll now in order to campaign because this campaign is now polling station-based. So we now need to know who is where and then we target those people. We also want to know who is capable of nominating a candidate because a candidate must be nominated by registered voters, but without the voters' roll there is no way we are able to know.BM: The MDC-T seems wary about the strength and support base of some of the candidates coming from other MDC Alliance partners.DM: We have noticed that some of the Alliance partners have provided very weak candidates who do not have a following. We have brought that to their attention and we need candidates that are popular with the people and that suggestion does not jeopardise the alliance at all. It is an alliance predicated on truth telling, fair assessment on who is the best and that is what we are doingBM: Will this not jeopardise the interests as well as the confidence of other alliance partners as some may question how you measured the weakness of their candidates?DM: We use the principle of sovereignty of the people. After everything is said and done, it is the people on the ground who have to decide, otherwise this alliance becomes an elite pact. We don't want it to be an elite pact, we want it to be something organic.BM: Where are you standing yourself?DM: Well, I am going to be a senator for Manicaland province. I initially wanted to be a senator for Harare province, but opted for Manicaland and I am going to win.News / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe will this month host the World Radio Communication Conference in Victoria Falls.The event, which will run from June 4-7 in the resort town, is an African telecommunications meeting preparatory meeting for the World Radio Communication Conference to be held in 2019 in Egypt.The Postal and Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) which is hosting the event said the conference is aimed at consulting the industry and key stakeholders to identify and develop recommendations for key spectrum issues or areas of significant importance to Africa.World Radio Communication Conferences are held every three to four years. It is the job of World Radio Communication conferences to review, and, if necessary, revise the Radio Regulations, the international treaty governing the use of the radio-frequency spectrum and the geostationary-satellite and non-geostationary-satellite orbits.News / National

by Staff reporter

With only a few weeks left before this year's tricky general elections, MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa, faces a dilemma over who to appoint as his deputies, amid fears that poor choices could create ripples in the marriage of convenience that brings together seven opposition political parties.The Daily News on Sunday can report that there is intense jockeying behind the scenes among alliance leaders who signed a Political Cooperation Agreement (PCA) that gave birth to the MDC Alliance on August 5, 2017 for the positions of deputy president.But to avoid creating unnecessary friction in the Alliance ahead of make-or-break polls on July 30, sources said Chamisa was more inclined towards deferring the decision on the matter to after the general elections, a position shared by some of the MDC Alliance leaders, including Welshman Ncube.The Alliance is basically an electoral bloc formed between seven political parties, most of which are splinters from original MDC, founded in 1999.Formed to contest the forthcoming polls, its members include Chamisa's main MDC, Ncube's MDC, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) led by Tendai Biti, Transform Zimbabwe (TZ) led by Jacob Ngarivhume, the Zimbabwe People First (ZPF), led by Agrippa Mutambara, Zanu-Ndonga and the Multi-Racial Democrats.By choosing to contest under one umbrella, the MDC Alliance put itself in a position whereby its leaders would have to agree on a structure of government, assuming the coalition wins the upcoming plebiscite. Apart from a president, that structure would also have two vice presidents in line with the national charter, most probably to emerge from the PCA signatories.Sources said there was intense jockeying between MDC Alliance partners for the positions, which has put Chamisa on the spot. According to analysts canvassed by the Daily News on Sunday, the 40-year-old Chamisa would have to summon all his wisdom to pull this one  taking into account the need for inclusivity, regional and ethnic balance  to stabilise the MDC Alliance ship.MDC national chairperson, Morgen Komichi, told the Daily News on Sunday that Chamisa would definitely deal with this potentially hot potato at the appropriate time."When the time comes, the president will appoint the best people as his deputies; that question has not arisen yet," said Komichi.MDC Alliance spokesperson, Ncube, believes Chamisa will only appoint deputies if the coalition wins the elections."It will only arise after the elections  the issue is who will be appointed by Chamisa if he wins and for now that does not arise," said Ncube.In terms of the PCA, the parties agreed to establish a non-competing electoral Alliance for purposes of contesting the 2018 harmonised elections.Without specifying the method to be used in selecting the candidates, the agreement says that "the party which is strongest electorally in a given constituency must field the candidate for the coalition".While the PCA has provisions to "accommodate any additional alliance", it goes on to give Chamisa carte blanche to select the other coalition partners.According to the pact, the MDC leader would appoint a "national State executive of vice presidents, ministers and deputy ministers" balancing regions, gender and including all political parties, in the event that he wins the elections.Most of the MDC Alliance partners will fill positions in the other organs of the State although a lot will depend on whether the coalition would have secured enough numbers to push its agenda through.For example, Biti's PDP was offered the deputy speaker of Parliament post while TZ would nominate all parliamentary chairpersons.This would, however, require the MDC Alliance to have the numeric advantage in the National Assembly to get its people nominated into these positions.The Ncube-led MDC would nominate the president of the senate with the ZPF also accorded its share of the cake.Political analyst, Vivid Gwede, said the issue of a deputy in the MDC Alliance, or at least that of a running mate, would be resolved when the nomination court sits."It is likely that the MDC Alliance will present the running mate together as a collective of parties. Obviously, in the matrix regional balance, inclusivity and experience will have to be taken in to consideration."Given that the big day of the election has been announced, the wait could now be very short," said Gwede.He added that the final decision and freedom to choose should lie with the presidential candidate."This is the standard practice in countries such as the United States because the two presidium occupiers, the president and his vice, should have an understanding in order to have order in the cockpit."We have seen in the recent years, how former president Robert Mugabe seemed to be always quarrelling with his deputies. That is not an enviable situation."Political expert, Maxwell Saungweme, said if unresolved the issue of the MDC Alliance deputy presidents would have grave consequences for the opposition which is currently showing a veneer of unity."The delays in clarifying the deputies shows that there are prolonged talks on the issue with two power-hungry lawyers who lead smaller fractions of parties in the Alliance poised to take the positions."It's not an easy one. It's likely that Chamisa will end up mimicking Zanu-PF and have two VPs one Shona and one Ndebele giving room for both Biti and Ncube to fit in."But now that elections are so near and campaigns are in full throttle this issue of deputies and chaos marring election and determination of MP candidates presents the Alliance as a political outfit in disarray at the 11th hour."In such cases defeat becomes a clear possibility when faced with a competitor who has advantages of incumbency yet your camp is shambolic."You can only stand a better chance against an incumbent when you are better organised than them," said Saungweme.Crisis Coalition spokesperson, Tabani Moyo, said constitutionally, it's unavoidable for Chamisa not to choose a deputy for the MDC Alliance."He shall have to bite the bullet on that one. I strongly think the chaos that ensued in the primary elections would only entail that we make the correct move after the interested parties have completed their race for the show of interest at constituency levels," said Moyo."Remember both the presidential candidate and their running mates do not compete at constituency level. Now that the proclamation has been made and the elections are going to take place on July 30, 2018, which decision will be out in the open."Political analyst MacDonald Lewanika, however, says Chamisa has the obligation or power to appoint a deputy for the MDC Alliance."It is an alliance of political parties which already has full structures and given this, if a deputy is to be appointed beyond the two main portfolios allocated or Alliance president and spokesperson, I'm quite sure it will not be Chamisa's decision but that of the Alliance as represented by its principals."Logic would dictate that if this Alliance is fully functional then part of the agreement also has to be about how responsibilities and power is shared in the Alliance," said Lewanika.Media and social analyst Rashweat Mukundu said: "Let us remember that the MDC already has a deputy in the name of Elias Mudzuri and until that changes or the Alliance decides otherwise, I think Chamisa is well covered and supported by the existing structure. The MDC is also finalising its candidate selection and it could be that once this is done the party may focus on other areas."Social commentator Rejoice Ngwenya could only say: "Our Constitution has no provision for running mate. It is not urgent. It can wait until after the elections."The Canadian men's rugby sevens squad finished its preliminary pool play with a 29-10 win over Russia at the World Rugby Sevens Series event in London on Saturday, and earned a spot in the Cup quarter-finals on Sunday.

Canada wasted no time taking an early lead against Russia, thanks to back-to-back tries by Mike Fuailefau and Nathan Hirayama.

Russia responded with consecutive tries before the half, with a Hirayama conversion the difference in the 12-10 score line at half.

Justin Douglas, Matt Mullins and Fuailefau added tries in the second half to put the match away and secure a quarter-final berth.

The top two qualifiers from the four pools advance to the quarter-finals. Canada, playing in just its second Cup quarter-finals this season, will face Fiji on Sunday at 5:58 a.m. ET (CBCSports.ca).

In the other quarter-final matchups, Ireland will face the United States, South Africa will take on New Zealand and Australia will play England.

Starting off on the right foot

The Canadians began their tourney at Twickenham Stadium with a 14-0 win against Samoa, thanks to tries by Isaac Jonathan Kay and Justin Douglas, while Hirayama converted both kicks.

The Canadians dropped their second match, a 17-7 decision to the defending series champions from South Africa. Harry Jones scored the lone try for Canada, which was unable to solve the Blitzboks, a team that has not lost a match to Canada in the past five years.

You can also catch more rugby sevens action on Saturday at 3 p.m. ET on CBC TV.

Coverage continues on Sunday at 4:30 a.m. ET.

Full Canadian roster

- Luke Bradley (Port Alberni, B.C.)

- Connor Braid (Victoria)

- Andrew Coe (Toronto)

- Admir Cejvanovic (Burnaby, B.C.)

- Justin Douglas (Abbotsford, B.C.)

- Mike Fuailefau (Victoria)

- Lucas Hammond (Toronto)

- Nathan Hirayama (Richmond, B.C.)

- Harry Jones (North Vancouver)

- Isaac Kaay (Kamloops, B.C.)

- Pat Kay (Duncan, B.C.)

- Luke McCloskey (Victoria)

- Matt Mullins (Belleville, Ont.)Sick notes give employers a useful way to deal with unnecessary lost time, says a group representing employers in Newfoundland in Labrador, in an opposing stance to criticism of the notes from the medical community.

Richard Alexander of the N.L. Employers' Council said it's only reasonable to require a sick note after an absence of three days, so managers have a way to deal with people who take sick days but may not actually be sick.

"There needs to be a balance, because attendance in our province and in our country is a massive issue and problem. Our government spends more on sick leave than it does on road construction in this province," he told the St. John's Morning Show.

"When someone is absent from the workplace for non-legitimate reasons, then that impacts coworkers, productivity and morale."

Earlier this week, Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association president Lynn Dwyer told CBC News that sick note requests are clogging up doctors' offices in the province and becoming a drain on physicians' time.

No plan to change laws

In an email to CBC, the provincial government said it has no plans to change the Labour Standards Act, which covers sick leave and medical notes.

Currently that act gives an employer the right to request a a note from a doctor or nurse practitioner after three days off.

Alexander said while it may seem like a waste of time from the doctors' perspective, it's a responsibility they've had for decades, and is similar to their responsibilities to conduct medical exams to approve someone for a certain job or to get their driver's licence back.

The concerns of the employer have to be taken into consideration when an employee takes a significant amount of time off, Alexander said, and requiring sick notes is the one tool they have to control those situations.

"We don't want to to flood the doctor's office with employees for one-day absences, but in specific situations where there's an issue that needs to be resolved or managed, then employers need to be able to retain that right to require medical documentation for those illnesses," he said.Kim Jong Un Wants Hotel With $6,000 Per Night Suite for Singapore Summit and U.S. May Pay For It

For the back-on denuclearization summit in Singapore, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reportedly wants to stay at a five-star hotel where a night at a presidential suite costs more than $6,000but doesnt plan to pay for it.

As a result, American officials planning the summit are trying to work around sanctions that prohibit the U.S. from picking up the bill, or may ask Singapore to pay for Kims hospitality at the Fullerton, a neoclassical hotel along the Singapore River, two people with knowledge of the matter told The Washington Post on Friday.

Trending: Critics Are 'Fat-Shaming' President Donald Trump, Fox News' Jesse Watters Says

Kim has invested heavily in North Koreas nuclear weapons development program while starving the country financially and demanding luxury accommodations from foreign nations, including South Korea which covered $2.6 million in travel expenses for him during the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics.

North Korea can build nukes and ICBMs, but claim they are too poor to pay for foreign travel costs, Sung-Yoon Lee, a Korea expert at Tufts University, told the Post.

In order to pay for Kims hotel, the Office of Foreign Assets Control would have to approve a waiver to temporarily suspend the applicability of sanctions of the Treasury Department, Elizabeth Rosenberg, a former official with the department, told the newspaper.

Don't miss: Donald Trump Isnt King: Watergate Prosecutor, Dems Say President Can Obstruct Justice

Singapores defense minister Ng Eng Hen on Saturday told reporters the small yet rich city-state in Southeast Asia is open to pitching in to cover some expenses for the summit.

Related: Who Is Going to Kim Jong Un Summit With Trump? Melania and Ivanka Have Accompanied Him Before

It is a cost that were willing to bear to play a small part in this historic meeting, Ng said, according to Reuters.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump, who on Friday called the summit back on for June 12, is expected to lodge at the luxury Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore. According to Reuters, the Shangri-La Suite in the hotels Valley Wing had a price tag of 10,000 Singapore dollars, or about $7,471, for the night of June 12.

Story continues

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekA bombshell admission Saturday from Kathleen Wynne that the Ontario Liberals would not form the province's next government had the party's incumbents in Ottawa trying to keep a united front.

Even though Wynne conceded yesterday she would not be Ontario's premier after Thursday's vote, she still urged people to vote for Liberal candidates and stop the Progressive Conservatives or the NDP from forming a majority government.

The announcement came as a surprise to many of the party's local candidates, many of whom said they learned about her comments from news reports and social media.

"It is difficult to hear that," said OttawaCentre candidate Yasir Naqvi, who heard about the comments on a conference call only a short time before Wynne went public.

Naqvi, who has represented the riding since 2007 and most recently served as the province's attorney general, called her remarks courageous.

"She's always been somebody who's very honest and a woman of integrity. She's demonstrated today that she speaks directly to the people," he said.

"I mean, it must have been a very difficult for her to talk about [how] there will be a new government on June 7."

Ottawa WestNepean candidate Bob Chiarelli, who has been involved in provincial politics off and on since the 1980s, said he was caught off guard by the announcement.

"It wasn't expected," he said, adding he thought it was responsible and practical.

"It became clear  and she conceded [that]  that she cannot win the election. And given that reality, there are serious decisions that voters in Ontario have to make."

The latest polls have the NDP and the Progressive Conservatives neck-and-neck, with the Liberals floundering.

Still door knocking

Marie-France Lalonde, the party's candidate in OttawaOrleans and a former minister in Wynne's government, said the announcement won't dissuade her from door knocking.

Story continues

"I think it's very honourable that [Wynne] chose to make that decision [to concede]," she said.

"It's for protecting Ontarians. It's to ensure Doug Ford doesn't [form] a majority government," she said.

Lalonde said she still hoped to return to Queen's Park after Thursday, even though her chances of remaining in cabinet are all but quashed.

OttawaVanier candidate Nathalie Des Rosiers, another former cabinet member, said she knew she may not be part of the ruling party for long.

"I knew there was a chance that I would end up in the opposition because, after 15 years, it's normal that there'd be a changing of the guard and I was prepared for that," she said.

Des Rosiers said she still believes her chances are strong in the riding, which elected her in a by-election only two years ago.

Voters weigh in

OttawaOrleans voter Zulfi Sadeque applauded Wynne's "surprising" announcement, saying he still plans to vote Lalonde.

"It's important to give a message to the people who are still kind of vacillating that, sure, after 15 years you might want a change  but make sure you want the change that you really need," Sadeque said.

Dan Benoit also lives in the riding, and said he was already leaning toward voting for Cameron Montgomery, the PC candidate.

"But you know it's still not too late for me to be swayed one way or the other as well," Benoit said  although he added he would only consider switching his vote to the NDP.Updates throughout the day at http://calevbenyefuneh.blog spot.com. If you enjoy "Love of the Land", please be a subscriber. Just put your email address in the "Subscribe" box on the upper right-hand corner of the page.Twitter updates at LoveoftheLand as well as our Love of the Land page at Facebook which has additional pieces of interest besides that which is posted on the blog. Also check-out This Ongoing War by Frimet and Arnold Roth. An excellent blog, very important work.

.

..CAMERA..01 June '18..A May 29, 2018report on a recent Hamas missile attack against Israel omitted key facts and context (Tensions rise as Gaza militants fire more than 70 mortars, rockets into Israel). The dispatch, by reporters Ruth Eglash and Hazem Balousha, also seemed to blame some Israelis for being upset that the U.S.-designated terrorist group was trying to murder them.Hamass charter calls for the destruction of Israel. The group routinely launches rockets and wages war against the Jewish state. However, the groups barrage on May 29, 2018 was the largest amount of rockets and mortars fired at Israel since the 2014 Israel-Hamas War, said Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Lt. Col Jonathan Conricus.Armed with Iranian-made rockets and mortars, and assisted by Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), another U.S.-listed terror group, Hamas purposefully launched missiles at Israeli schools, among other targets. Asbizarrely reported:One of the mortars in the first round of fire early Tuesday struck the yard of a kindergarten, drawing angry responses from Israeli leaders,no children were in the preschool at the time [emphasis added].This description could be read as implying that the angry response from Israeli leaders was an overreaction. At the very least, its an odd way to describe a terror groupsreferred to as Palestinian militants byfailed attempt to murder Israeli schoolchildren.In 1983, Kevin Cooper was convicted of a brutal quadruple murder in San Bernardino County and sentenced to death.





In the years since, the chain of events that led to his conviction has come under fire from law enforcement veterans, a U.S. federal judge, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and even some of the original jurors for his trial.





"The State of California may be about to execute an innocent man," wrote Judge William Fletcher, of the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, in a blistering dissent against the court's decision not to hear Cooper's appeal.





The discrepancies in the Cooper case are deeply disturbing. Yet all Cooper has asked for is a reprieve of his execution and a new investigation into his case, including modern DNA testing.





There is reason to believe a new investigation could clear him of the murders.





There is no reason for Gov. Jerry Brown to continue holding off on ordering a new test.





The murders for which Cooper was convicted are the stuff of nightmares. Doug and Peggy Ryen, their 10-year-old daughter, and an 11-year-old house guest were hacked to death with a hatchet in their home in Chino Hills. Cooper, who had escaped from a nearby prison where he was serving a burglary sentence and was hiding in a home close by, looked like an obvious suspect.





Yet the then-8-year-old Josh Ryen, who survived being stabbed in throat, originally communicated to a social worker that he'd seen 3 or 4 white men attacking him and his family. Cooper is black.





Another potential witness told officers that her boyfriend, a convicted murderer named Lee Furrow, had clothes and a hatchet that matched descriptions of items at the murder scene. Police destroyed a pair of Furrow's bloody coveralls without testing them.





Other problems with the case, including questionable forensics, all point to the need for new testing.





Cooper came within hours of execution in 2004. One of the major reasons he's still alive is an unrelated court challenge to the state's death penalty procedures. Legal experts are anticipating a resumption of California's death penalty soon.





Our editorial board has long argued that reasonable doubts about the Cooper case should stop the state from executing him.





There's new pressure on Gov. Brown to allow advanced testing, thanks to California's presumed resumption of the death penalty and to New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof, who recently pored over the case and argued that Cooper probably was framed by the San Bernardino sheriff's office.





Last week, California's Democratic Sen. Kamala Harris, who ignored Cooper's pleas when she was state attorney general, came out in favor of new DNA testing.





The governor should do the same.





Brown's office says the case is very complex, which it is. The governor received a clemency petition from Cooper's lawyers in February 2016, and his office says it's under review.





The governor has had years to make a decision on this case. Time is running out.





Brown has been proudly opposed to the death penalty for decades. If his opposition is sincere, he'll stop hesitating. What's at stake is the life of a man who could be innocent.

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE!





"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar WildeNotorious Malaysian hangman who has killed 130 criminals reveals Australian grandmother caught smuggling meth will be given just one day's notice before she is put to death





An Australian grandmother will be given just 24-hours notice before she is hanged for smuggling drugs into Malaysia, the country's self-described 'number one' executioner has revealed.





A former prison official who presided over 130 hangings across five Malaysian jails has given Daily Mail Australia an extraordinary insight into the final hours of a death row inmate.





In an exclusive interview in Kuala Lumpur, the retired former chief hangman, 61, said the executions always begin at dawn, just after the morning prayers.





'That is the best time,' said the officer, who asked his name not to be published for safety reasons. 'People wake up, their mind is always at peace.





'It's very quiet, the whole prison is very quiet, especially the Muslims, they pray.





'People in the death knell are praying for the (inmate about to be hanged), the Christians, the people in the other blocks are praying for them too - they know that.'





The ex-hangman opened up about the country's secretive execution process after a Malaysian court sentenced Sydney woman Maria Exposto, 54, to death.





Like many before her, in 2014, Ms Exposto was caught at Kuala Lumpur international airport carrying a bag laced with drugs - more than a kilogram of crystal methamphetamine. She claimed she was 'duped' into carrying the substance by an online romance scammer.





Drug smuggling carries a mandatory death penalty in Malaysia. Activists have long criticised the hardline policy as 'barbaric, cruel and inhumane', but it has broad public support.





This week, the former prison chief outlined a grim future for Ms Exposto if a final appeal against her death sentence fails.





THE FINAL DAYS





The estimated 1346 Malaysian prisoners currently on death row face a long wait, the executioner said. It can take up to 11 years behind bars for inmates to step into the gallows.





The prison starts preparing for the hanging one month before. The chief executioner chooses an appropriate date and time and selects a support team to prepare the chamber, place the noose around the inmate's neck and pull the trapdoor lever.





'We inform the family one week earlier, for preparation by the family (with) what they want to do with the body,' the hangman said.





'We inform the family the execution will be carried out, in this prison, between this time, at this date.





'(We say), please be there one day before this.'





But the inmate does not learn they will be put to death until 24 hours before they are hanged. That morning, the prisoner is summoned to a meeting with the prison director and told it is their last full day on Earth.





The jail has received a death penalty warrant, the director tells them, and 'yes, your family knows already'. 'Immediately after seeing the director, they (are) taken out to a room, then the family comes in,' the official said.





'Anyone from the family can come, no problem  That part is always very emotional.'





The prisoners say their final goodbyes. They can ask for a last meal, although they are by no means guaranteed to get what they asked for, the hangman said.





'Some people ask, is there any chance to drink, smoke?' the executioner laughed. 'There's no such thing as 'one for the road! Let's have a drink before we go!'





The next day the prisoner wakes and is led into the gallows. The jail is, usually, quiet and still. Sometimes, the executioner said, it's all over 'ten seconds' after the prisoner steps into the chamber.





LIFE AS AN EXECUTIONER





The executioner who spoke to Daily Mail Australia killed his first inmate - a drug-smuggling Thai actor - when he was 26-years-old. Over his career, he directly hanged 70 people, and supervised about 60 more.





Sometimes, the hangman executed multiple people at once. There were six people all together on one occasion, three on another. 'Ninety per cent' of prisoners were peaceful in their final moments, he claimed.





The rest were distressed. One notorious mass-murderer even spat in the hangman's face as the cover was placed over his head. 'He killed women, he killed children,' the executioner said.





'I had no regret, I had totally no regret. I can still make his face, he's looking at me, spitting in my face'.





Another prisoner affected the hangman in a different way.





The inmate left a heartbreaking letter to his son saying 'please do not do the same thing I did selling drugs, doing this, it's not going to get you anywhere. I made this mistake, I'm very sorry son.'





The doomed prisoner asked the hangman to give it to his boy.





'I shook hands with (the son) and said: "I'm very sorry",' he recalled.





Most of the damned were men. A 6 ft 5 Nigerian man cried for his entire final day after being told he would die, the hangman recalled.





'Woman (sic), I think, are tougher than men,' the executioner said. About six women were hanged under his watch and, 'women are always (more) well prepared than men, I noticed that.'





Hangmen are handpicked from existing jail staff by a selection panel. 'You must have a very good record, physically you must be fit, mentally you must be strong,' he said.





'You have to be very, very strong. It's not easy to become an executioner. You must be able to control your emotions.'





Executions do not happen every day, or even every month. In 2016, Malaysia put nine people to death, while its courts handed down more than 36 death sentences, according to Amnesty International statistics.





But why do people follow such a career in the first place? The hangmen said he did his work out of a sense of duty to the nation. 'Of course there is emotion there,' he said. 'I only (see it) as part of my work.





'I feel like this is my work, to serve the country, and nothing more than that.





'I do not hold any grudges. I do not hold any ill feelings towards the opposite, even if it is a murderer, even if they are drug (smugglers) because I know the process of law has been done, has been carried out.'





The hangman said he has 'no regrets'.

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"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar WildeMontana hasn't executed anyone in more a decade, and it's unlikely to carry out a death sentence anytime soon. But you wouldn't know that from watching the state's US Senate race. In the hotly contested primary to take on incumbent Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, one Republican candidate - former Judge Russ Fagg - has decided to make capital punishment a cornerstone of his campaign.





"The death penalty in this case is being used as a vehicle to talk about one of the biggest issues to Republican primary voters."





Using television ads, media appearances, and campaign events, Fagg has hammered state Auditor Matt Rosendale, the presumed GOP frontrunner, over Rosendale's opposition to capital punishment. In 2013, Rosendale, who is Catholic, co-authored an op-ed calling to end Montana's death penalty. "Those who support the death penalty usually use the same, tired arguments: It saves money. It deters crime. Everyone who gets the death penalty is guilty and deserves to die," he wrote. "We're here to say those arguments are wrong, wrong and wrong." (Rosendale is correct. States without the death penalty have lower murder rates than states that do carry out executions, and a number of former death row inmates have been exonerated.)





Rosendale's views have become more popular in recent years, as even some GOP officials have joined Democrats in calling for criminal justice reform. Last fall, support for the death penalty fell to a 45-year low, with 55 % of respondents nationwide telling Gallup they favored it. (Death penalty support peaked at 80 % in 1994.) In 1999, the United States executed 98 people. By 2017, that number had fallen to 23.





But among rank-and-file Republican voters, support for the death penalty remains strong - and Fagg has sought to exploit that fact by linking it to another powerful wedge issue: immigration.





"Judge Russ Fagg has made the tough decisions to protect our families. That's why Judge Russ Fagg supports the death penalty for illegal aliens that murder," declares one ad from the Fagg campaign. "Matt Rosendale opposes the death penalty. Worse? Rosendale says it's time to get rid of it."





"This has every bit to do with immigration," says Erik Iverson, the former chair of the Montana Republican Party. "The death penalty in this case is being used as a vehicle to talk about one of the biggest issues to Republican primary voters."





Unauthorized immigration is nearly non-existent in Montana. According to the American Immigration Council, in 2014 there were fewer than 5,000 undocumented immigrants there. But in a state Trump won by 20 points, each GOP candidate is trying to align himself with the president. Immigration is a topic that gets voters to listen. Trump has frequently portrayed undocumented immigrants as a threat, highlighting crimes committed by migrants and demanding tougher enforcement measures. Trump is also an outspoken proponent of capital punishment. He has repeatedly called for the death penalty for drug dealers and individuals who kill police officers. Following the 1989 rape of a woman in New York's Central Park, Trump took out full-page newspaper ads calling for the reinstatement of the death penalty.





The Montana GOP primary, which will take place on Tuesday, is a 4-way contest between Fagg, Rosendale, businessman Troy Downing, and state Sen. Al Olszewski. Rosendale is widely considered the favorite, and many Republicans see him as their strongest candidate against Tester. Outside conservative groups have already spent more than $1 million supporting Rosendale, and he's secured endorsements from high-profile Republicans, including Sens. Ted Cruz (Texas), Mike Lee (Utah), and Rand Paul (Ky.) .





Fagg's ads are an attempt to hurt Rosendale's appeal with the state's GOP base. The idea, Iverson believes, is to convince voters that if Rosendale is "soft on the death penalty, he's going to be soft on immigrants who commit violent crimes."





The Club for Growth, an independent conservative group supporting Rosendale, has hit back at Fagg, criticizing his judicial record and calling him "soft on crime" and "lenient on criminals." For his part, Rosendale is also running an anti-immigration campaign - just without the death penalty component. "Liberals from California to Washington are fighting President Trump on illegal immigration," he says in one recent ad. "I'll stand with President Trump. We'll get tough, and we'll build that wall."





Using capital punishment as a pillar of a 2018 campaign is a surprising move. Since 1976, Montana has executed just three people; none were immigrants. The last person to be executed in the state was convicted murderer David Dawson, who was put to death in 2006. There are currently 2 people on the state's death row; 1 of them is a Canadian who killed 2 men while visiting Montana. They are unlikely to be executed any time soon - like most states that allow capital punishment, Montana is facing a shortage of drugs used for lethal injection.





Over the past several years, an increasing number of pharmaceutical manufacturers and wholesalers have refused to sell execution drugs to prisons. This has left states scrambling for viable alternatives. In its previous executions, Montana used sodium pentothal, a barbituate that can no longer be purchased in the United States. In 2015, a federal judge ruled that Montana's proposed replacement drug wasn't acceptable, effectively placing a moratorium on executions in the state.





Fagg's campaign says that he will use his "expertise as a district court judge for 22 years' to help state lawmakers craft a new execution protocol. "The Montana Legislature has full authority to modify Montana law to allow flexibility in which drugs we use to perform lethal injection," said Karli Hill, a Fagg spokesperson, in an email.





It's unclear how Fagg would use his role as a US senator to shape state legislation in Montana. Moreover, specifically targeting undocumented immigrants for execution could raise serious constitutional issues. "Subjecting a person to the death penalty because of who they are is unconstitutional," said Robert Dunham, executive director of the Death Penalty Information Center, in an email. "It is even more clearly unconstitutional when racial stereotyping is involved. There is no evidence that undocumented immigrants are more violence-prone than others - the data indicates they may actually commit fewer violent offenses."





Asked about the constitutional objections, Hill told Mother Jones, "We...agree that merely being in the country illegally isn't grounds for the death penalty in and of itself in cases of murder. Russ supports the death penalty when appropriate, unlike Matt Rosendale who doesn't support it at all."





Despite the fact that Montana is unlikely to execute undocumented immigrants in the near future, some observers think Fagg's message could resonate. "Death penalty and law and order?" Iverson says. "Those are always going to be good issues for Republican primary voters."

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"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar WildeThe Ohio Parole Board has recommended against mercy for a condemned killer whose attorneys cite a history of abuse and untreated mental illness.





The board ruled 8-1 Friday against the clemency request by death row inmate Robert Van Hook.





They say he experienced a "homosexual panic" of self-revulsion before killing a man he picked up at an Ohio bar.





Van Hook is scheduled to die July 18 for strangling and stabbing David Self in Cincinnati in 1985.





Prosecutors say courts have fairly considered Van Hook's childhood and mental health claims previously and there are no grounds for sparing him.





They also dismiss Van Hook's "homosexual panic" claim as nonsense, saying he made a practice of luring gay men to apartments to rob them.





The Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office also notes Van Hook has an extensive history of violence while incarcerated, including stabbing a fellow death row inmate in November.





The parole board heard arguments last week for and against Van Hook's clemency request.





Gov. John Kasich will have the final say.

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"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde

Associated Press, June 3, 2018A court has cleared the way for the disclosure of an execution drug supplier that the nation's busiest death penalty state has fought for years to keep under wraps





The Texas Supreme Court has cleared the way for the disclosure of an execution drug supplier that the nation's busiest death penalty state has fought for years to keep under wraps.





The decision Friday is expected to only identify the supplier Texas used in 2 2014 executions.





Gov. Greg Abbott signed a measure into law the next year allowing the state to keep future supplier records secret.





Republicans hold all seats on the Texas Supreme Court and issued no comment while keeping in place a lower ruling to reveal the supplier identity.





Attorney Maurie Levin sought the supplier name in 2014 on behalf of a death-row inmate.





She called the decision a victory for transparency.





A federal judge ruled Thursday that Alabama must reveal details of its lethal injection procedure.

Texas Supreme Court: state must reveal execution drug supplier

The Texas Supreme Court has dumped the state's appeal to hide where it buys execution drugs, forcing the state to reveal which pharmacy it bought from after years of fighting to keep the information secret. But it may make no difference.





The court ruled without comment Friday, backing a 2017 decision from the Austin-based 3rd Court of Appeals that found exemptions to the state's open records law cannot hide the pharmacy's identity.





Prison officials have argued the information should remain secret to protect the drug suppliers from protests from death penalty opponents.





"They have been fighting tooth-and-nail about releasing information about their lethal injection drug supply from 4 years ago," Maurie Levin, one of the three plaintiff lawyers on the case, said about the state's fervent opposition. She said the ruling will effect naming the pharmacy that was used in 2014.





The ruling will have a limited effect, Levin said, because the Texas Legislature changed state law in 2015 to keep secret the names of pharmacies providing the state execution drugs.

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"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde

: Associated Press, June 2, 2018Houston Chronicle, June 2, 2018Pranab Mukherjee was one of India's most distinctive head of state. He set an impeccable bipartisan record as a politician who transformed into a statesmanlike President. It shows his breadth of vision and his understanding of inclusivity if he has accepted an invitation to address the RSS, the far right voluntary organisation that is the ideological arm of the ruling BJP and the chief propagandist and promoter of Hindutva thought.

An enormous fuss is being made that Pranab Da has chosen to attend and preside over the function. It has been pointed out that leading luminaries have visited the RSS in the past although few would endorse its most recent forays into dividing the polity after its political wing was voted into office four years ago.

It might just seem fair that his much anticipated speech be heard before Pranab Da is judged, either by members of his old political party, the Congress or the people in general and Twitterati in particular. As President, Pranab had held fast to his secular outlook and he is unlikely to change. To address the RSS might be a delicate task for him but he is capable of statesmanship as much as he is of speaking his mind. It is an interesting event at which he will be speaking this week and his words will be weighed even as he speaks them.

Anshul Saxena @AskAnshul

When Nehru invited RSS in 1963 Republic Day parade.

When Indira Gandhi attended RSS event in 1977.

Then What's the problem if Former President Pranab Mukherjee attend RSS event? Congress needs to learn historical facts

Anit Ghosh @Indianit07

Congress has no problem when ex Vice President Hamid Ansari attended Kerala based Terror organisation PFI's conference!

But Congress & Rahul Gandhi has a problem on Ex President Pranab Mukharjee's Involvement in RSS Event!

Really No One Understand Congress!

#GauravPradhan @DrGPradhan

When Manmohan Singh and Hamid Ansari attend and promote book launch of Ex ISI chief .... It is tolerance

When Pranab Da attend RSS event it is intolerance

Still some HINDUS think @RahulGandhi can be PM of India

Ipsit Pallav@Ipsit_Pallav

It is so ironical of the so called liberal intellectuals criticising Pranab Da just because he chose the invitation to address the RSS cadres.Their rhetorics and the language towards a fmr Indian President is extremely shameful. #PranabForRSS

Totlani Krishan@kktotlani

#PranabForRSS After becoming President Pranab Da is now well above the politics & if he accepts to address the cadre of RSS, i don't see any reason why Congress party should oppose it ?

Girish Alva @girishalva

"What a shocker to Dynasty" RSS, a volunteer org, portrayed as a terrorist org by dynasty & it's PiDis, some of whom coined d word Hindu terror to discredit RSS. Pranab da accepting to attend RSS meet is another defeat to COMMUNAL congis. #PranabForRSS

Advaita Kala @AdvaitaKala

Unnecessary outrage over former President and Congress stalwart Dr Pranab Mukerjee accepting RSS invitation. After all none other than Pt Nehru invited RSS to participate in the Republic Day Parade

Hardik Aatekar @Hardik_Aatekar

Mani Aiyyer of congress can sit in Pakistan but Pranab Mukherjee cannot accept RSS invite. What an hypocrisy by Congress and pseudo Liberals

Deepak Kher@deeepakkher

#PranabForRSS #PranabWithRSS #PranabAtRSSEvent Whats the big deal if Pranab Mukherjee has consented to be the Chief Guest at a #RSS function? He can elaborate his views at that event & in fact tell the graduating class a few home truths as he sees them. Why is #Congress worried?

Warrior Princess@MyloMegha

If Frm President Pranab Mukherjee is planning to come back in politics he will lose his stature and respect.. He should serve people of this Country just like Abdul Kalam Sir did... He shdn't thrive for power #PranabForRSS #PranabWithRSS

bahuvirupaksha @bahuvirupak

Let us not get carried away. Pranab has agreed to be a guest. Nothing more. Nothing less And who needs certificated from the corrupt criminal communal dynastic fascists anyway

Amandeep Shukla@amanshukla

Last year, as President, #Pranab Mukherjee had addressed an event organised by an #RSS affiliate Bharat Shikshan Mandal in New Delhi. Probably, not many in the Congress noticed that. Mukherjee spoke on tolerance for pluralism

Anand Jha@AnandJahh

Let us not jump the gun. These anti national dynasts are capable of overturning anyone's personal POV. Hope #Pranabda stands his ground

Suresh@sureshbalann

#PranabForRSS None questioned when Kerala CM E.K Nayanar visited Vatican and gifted Bagavat Geeta to Pope. Where was Marxists hiding at that point of time

Booby prize

UPs Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma has suggested that Lord Rams wife Sita is an example of a test-tube baby. When Sita was born there must have been something like a test-tube baby. (Her father King) Janak ploughed the land and a baby came out of an earthen pot, she became Sita.

UP Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma

This means technology similar to a test-tube baby must have existed, Dinesh Sharma said at an event to mark Hindi journalism day. At the same function, the minister shared another gem and said journalism started during the Mahabharata.Chennai: Four days after a charred body of a woman found on Chennai-Tiruchy National Highway in Chengalpattu, police had determined her identity, on Saturday. The woman was identified as 33-year-old Pokkisha Mary of Anna Nagar.

Chengalpet taluk police, who was in regular rounds, had found a womans body burning near a bush on Chennai-Tiruchy NH in Pazhaveli. The police doused the fire and took the body to Chengalpet Government hospital mortuary. Initially, the police had thought that the deceased person as transgender, but the post-mortem revealed that the body was a female and the deceased was raped and murdered, the police said.

Meanwhile, the police also initiated an enquiry to determine the identity of the deceased and informed various police stations that received missing complaints. Many complainants visited the mortuary and none of them identified the woman. As the woman had a clip on her teeth, a Kerala-based family, who had filed a woman missing complaint with local police visited the hospital, on Saturday. Although the Kerala girl too had a clip on teeth, she did not wear a nose ring. So they returned to Kerala, the police said.

Knowing about the nose ring, Arul Doss of Anna Nagar visited and identified the deceased as his daughter Pokkisha Mary (33), who went missing on May 26. Following the identity, the Anna Nagar police and Chengalpet taluk police have coordinated to find the reason for the murder.

Meanwhile, the Anna Nagar police with the help of Marys phone contacts had arrested Bala (40) of Anna Nagar on Saturday night and handed over to Chengalpattu Taluk police. Bala and Mary were said to be in a relationship and recently they parted ways. Infuriated by her shunning, Bala had allegedly murdered her after abusing her, the police said.Hyderabad: Baba Ramdevs Patanjali Communications much-touted app Kimbho notified users through an SMS saying that it had stopped the services due to the high traffic. Kimbho, meaning How are you or Whats new, was launched on Wednesday as a swadeshi messaging platform to take on Whatsapp.

Netizens soon pointed out that this was a videshi (foreign) app masquerading as a swadeshi app as the authentication and permissions referred to a Bolo app built by a US-based start-up. Even the description was not changed, apart from aided with several anomalies.

There are instances of social media gaints like Facebook and Google plagiarising of features of competitors, but the swadesi app is a carbon copy. Facebook continues to copy features from Snapchat, including the famous status messages rolled out on Instagram, Whatsapp, Facebook and Messenger. Last month Google copied Apples iPhoneX gesture features in its Android P version.

When companies copy features, they tend to make changes as per their standards. Kimbho, however, referenced to Bolo even in the messages that the end user received.

With the French researcher Robert Baptiste pointing that Kimbhos safey features were a joke and that it had serious security flaws, the app was taken down. He said he could access the messages of all users and asked the people not to install it.

Patanjali tried to play it down and said there was a huge volume of traffic and that it was a trial version. Mr Baptiste late on Friday night said people who installed this app had received an SMS informing them that they had downloaded the beta version and also uses Please be with us.

While Kimbho was taken down, several duplicates appeared on Playstore, including Kimbho Official Messenger, Kimbho Ab Bharat Bolega, Kimbho app. These apps are fake and could cause breach the users cyber security. They resemble the original app and some of them use the same name and picture.

Patanjali issued a statement saying that they were not responsible for the fakes.

Patanjali spokesperson S.K. Tijarawala took to Twitter and said: Our trial version is no longer available for download on any platform. We dont take any responsibility for any duplicate apps showing on anywhere.Mueller was appointed in May 2017 to investigate Russian efforts to tip the 2016 presidential election in Trump's favour. (Photo: File)

Washington: American President Donald Trump suggested that Special Counsel Robert Mueller is deliberately leaking to the press documents about his probe into possible collusion with Russia.

"There was No Collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country," Trump tweeted on June 2 after the investigation passed its one-year mark last month.

"Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media? Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?"

Earlier, The New York Times published a confidential 20-page letter the American president's legal team sent to Mueller in January, along with another sent in June 2017.

In the letters, Trump's lawyers sternly oppose attempts by Mueller's office to interview him, saying "under our system of government, the president is not readily available to be interviewed." They also argue that Trump cannot be accused of obstructing justice because he has the constitutional power to end the investigation led by the Justice Department.

Mueller was appointed in May 2017 to investigate Russian efforts to tip the 2016 presidential election in Trump's favour. He has increasingly dug into evidence of alleged money laundering, fraud and obstruction of justice inside Trump's inner circle.In January, Qatar announced that talks with Moscow on supplying the sophisticated S-400 system were at an "advanced stage". (Photo: AFP)

Paris: Saudi Arabia has threatened military action against Qatar if it goes ahead and acquires Russia's top of the range S-400 air defence missile system, Le Monde daily reported.

Citing information it had obtained, Le Monde said Friday that Riyadh had written to French President Emmanuel Macron asking him to intervene to prevent the deal going ahead and to help preserve regional stability.

There was no immediate official reaction from the president's office or the French foreign ministry to the report.

Saudi Arabia, backed by other regional powers including Bahrain and the Unite Arab Emirates, broke off relations with Qatar in June last year, accusing the Gulf state of supporting radical Islamist groups and of being too close to Iran -- Riyadh's arch rival in the region.

They subsequently imposed economic sanctions on Qatar which has consistently rejected the charges against it.

In an effort to ease its isolation, Qatar has sought new friends, including Russia.

In January, it announced that talks with Moscow on supplying the sophisticated S-400 system were at an "advanced stage".

Le Monde said that in the letter sent to the French president, Saudi King Salman had expressed his "deep concern" with the discussions between Doha and Moscow and warned about the risk of escalation.

Saudi Arabia "would be ready to take all necessary measures to eliminate this defence system, including military action," the newspaper wrote.The JuD was declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The JuD chief also carries a USD 10 million American bounty on his head for his role in terror activities. (Photo: File)

Lahore: Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jamaat-ud Dawa will contest the July 25 general elections on the platform of Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek as the group's Milli Muslim League is yet to be registered as a political party, a senior member of the outfit said on Saturday.

Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD), a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack, launched its political front Milli Muslim League, but it has not been yet registered by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

With general elections approaching, the group has decided to contest on the platform of the "dormant" political entity Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek (AAT), which was registered in the ECP.

"It was a kind of dormant party registered by a citizen Ehsan. There are several such parties registered with the ECP and such an arrangement is made ahead of the general elections if any mainstream party or organisation faces any issue or complication," a member of the JuD told PTI.

"Since the Milli Muslim League (MML) fails to get registered with the ECP it is going for this arrangement (contesting the upcoming polls on AAT platform)," he said.

MML president Saifullah Khalid will make a formal announcement regarding this shortly, he added.

The AAT's election symbol is 'chair'.

"Now the JuD/MML candidates will contest on the 'chair' symbol across the country," the member said.

He said since the MML has hardly any chance to get registered with the ECP as it had announced the election schedule and issued election symbols, it had no other option but to contest the election on any 'dormant' entity like AAT or support the Mutahidda Majlis Amal (MMA), an alliance of mainstream religious parties of the country.

"But Saeed chose to contest independently," he said.

The MML has also confirmed contesting the July 25 election on the 'chair' symbol.

"We have decided to support the candidates of AAT in July 25 elections," MML President Saifullah Khalid told PTI.

"We will play a role in the victory of those contesting on the symbol of chair. To save Pakistan, patriotic people should be supported in the elections," he said.

Khalid said the MML had been denied registration in the ECP for the last 11 months but will take part in the polls by supporting the candidates of AAT.

"Meanwhile we will continue fighting our case (registration of MML) in the court and ECP," he added.

The MML president said over 350 political parties were registered with the ECP but there is an objection regarding the MML.

"I ask the MML workers to get ready and make full preparations across the country to make the AAT candidates successful in the upcoming elections. We have to serve humanity and no one can stop us from our political struggle," he said.

Meanwhile, the MML has filed a contempt of court petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) against the ECP for using delaying tactics regarding its enlisting as a political party as per law. June 11 is fixed for the case hearing in the IHC.

The court in March had set aside the ECP order declining registration of the MML.

Justice Aamer Farooq of the IHC bench had referred the matter to the ECP, directing the electoral body to pass a speaking order.

The MML had challenged the October 11 order of the ECP declining registration to the MML as a political party allegedly on the behest of the interior ministry.

The interior ministry had opposed enlisting of the MML as a political party arguing it's an offshoot of the Jamaatud Dawa of Hafiz Saeed banned under a UN resolution.

The JuD formed MML at the time when Saeed was detained in Lahore. Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were placed under house arrest in Lahore on January 30 under anti- terrorism act.

The JuD was declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The JuD chief also carries a USD 10 million American bounty on his head for his role in terror activities.The United States and China have threatened tit-for-tat tariffs on goods worth up to $150 billion each.

China warned the United States on Sunday that any agreements reached on trade and business between the two countries will be void if Washington implements tariffs and other trade measures, as the two ended their latest round of talks in Beijing.

A short statement, carried by the official Xinhua news agency, made no mention of any specific new agreements after U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross met Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, Reuters said.

It referred instead to a consensus they reached last month in Washington, when China agreed to significantly increase its purchases of U.S. goods and services.

Read alsoU.S. slams EU, Canada and Mexico with steel, aluminum tariffs  media

"To implement the consensus reached in Washington, the two sides have had good communication in various areas such as agriculture and energy, and have made positive and concrete progress," the state news agency said, adding details would be subject to "final confirmation by both parties."

The United States and China have threatened tit-for-tat tariffs on goods worth up to $150 billion each.

Xinhua said China's attitude had been consistent, that it was willing to increase imports from all countries, including the United States.

"Reform and opening up and expanding domestic demand are China's national strategies. Our established rhythm will not change," it added.

"The achievements reached by China and the United States should be based on the premise that the two sides should meet each other halfway and not fight a trade war," Xinhua said.

"If the United States introduces trade sanctions including raising tariffs, all the economic and trade achievements negotiated by the two parties will be void."

There was no immediate comment or statement from the U.S. delegation or from Ross himself.

At the end of last month's Washington talks the two countries put out a joint statement.

But just when it appeared a trade truce between the two economic heavyweights was on the cards, the White House last week warned it would pursue tariffs on $50 billion worth of Chinese imports, as well as impose restrictions on Chinese investments in the United States and tighter export controls.On May 8th, health officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, or DRC, reported two confirmed cases of Ebola in the countrys northwest. It is the DRCs ninth outbreak of the disease since the discovery of the virus near the country's Ebola River, and the second since the largest-ever Ebola epidemic swept across West Africa from 2014 to 2015.

Ebola is a viral hemorrhagic fever with average mortality rates ranging from 25 to 90 percent, depending on the specific strain. According to the World Health Organization, by the end of December 2015, the epidemic that devastated West Africa sickened 28,616 people and killed 11,310 across 10 countries.

Ebola is a disease of the thick forest, where people and wild animals exist in close proximity. Here, people are more likely to eat bush-meat, or wild-caught game that may be infected with the disease. That is one of the reasons why Ebola is endemic in the DRC, meaning it is always present there at some level.

Since the earliest cases of this outbreak were reported in the DRCs forested region of Bikoro, they have spread to Mbandaka, a major port city. There is now a possibility that the infection could travel down the Congo River to more densely populated areas such as Kinshasa, the capital, with its population of 10 million.

On May 22nd, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar announced that the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, will contribute up to 7 million dollars at this stage to combat the Ebola outbreak in the DRC. This is in addition to the 1 million dollars USAID committed a few days earlier to help prevent the spread of this deadly disease.

The United States is also sending a team of public health experts to join the efforts of the Ministry of Health of the DRC, the World Health Organization, and other partners.

At the same time, we call on the global community to make funding available immediately to support the Government of the DRC and the World Health Organization's health emergencies fund - the "Contingency Fund for Emergencies" - in order to contain the outbreak as soon as possible before it spreads further and harms more people.A university student who delivered a vitriolic speech at a meeting with Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has denied claims made by the judiciary that he was not detained following the event.

At an annual gathering hosted by Khamenei for a group of university students and representatives from student associations on May 28, at least two of the guests voiced strong criticism of the ruling regime.

Two days later, one of the critics, Mohammad Javad Motamedinejad, was detained at a bus and truck terminal in Tehran.

Motamedinejad, who presents himself as the secretary of the Pro-Justice Students Movement of Iran on his Twitter account, says contrary to the claims made by Tehrans chief justice, he was detained two days after the meeting with Khamenei but released on bail.

Earlier, Tehrans chief justice had insisted that none of the students who spoke at the meeting with Khamenei had been detained.

Dismissing the judiciary officials comments, Motamedinejad wrote on Twitter on June 1 that the chief justices remarks were irresponsible and published a copy of the verdict concerning his 500 million rial (roughly $12,000) bail.

Motamedinejad says he had gone to the Tehran transport terminal on May 30 to listen to protesting truckers' demands when security agents detained him along with a labor rights activist.

I was accused of disturbing public peace and order and later released on bail, Motamedinejad tweeted on June 1.

In an unprecedented move during the meeting with Khamenei on May 28, at least two students, Motamedinejad and Sahar Mehrabi, were allowed to freely voice their criticism.

On his Twitter account, Motamedinejad listed the main topics of his speech as unfair procedures overshadowing the judiciary, injustice across the country, and the dominant role of those considered insiders of the ruling system.

The head of the judiciary has been promising for years to publish the list and images of corrupt judges, but nothing has come of it, he said at the meeting. A lack of transparency has led to a situation where the corrupt elements feel safe, rather than the oppressed -- people have lost their trust in the judiciary.

Motamedinejads speech echoed former President Mahmud Ahmadinejads recent remarks against the head of the judiciary, Ayatollah Sadeq Amoli Larijani. The Pro-Justice Students Movement of Iran supports Ahmadinejad.

Ahmadinejad has characterized the judiciary as corrupt and not accountable while also criticizing Khamenei for appointing Larijani, a man of no judicial background, as chief justice.

Ahmadinejad has also said there is no mechanism or authority, citizens could resort to in order to complain about the judiciarys unlawful behavior.Authorities in Pakistan say an official in the northwestern tribal region was shot dead and three local security personnel injured in an ambush by assailants in a mountainous area.



The June 1 attack that left Hameedullah Wazir dead was the eighth incident in the past two months involving targeted killings in North Waziristan, one of the mainly rugged, mountainous areas along the border with Afghanistan.



So far no group has claimed responsibility for these killings.



Wazir, who was in his early 30s, served as a political clerk in the political administration office in North Waziristan.

His father, Amanullah Wazir, had also worked for the government in the same area and was killed by Taliban militants several years ago.



Islamic militants had sanctuaries in the tribal region until a 2014 Pakistani Army offensive, after which most militants escaped to Afghanistan. They continue to carry out sporadic attacks.Singapore, June 3, 2018 (AFP)

Qatar will not be dragged into any conflict with Iran, a senior Qatari official said Sunday.

Defence minister Khalid bin Mohammad al-Attiyah told an international security conference in Singapore that even though the two nations had "a lot of differences", Doha would not "fuel a war" in the region.

"Is it wise to call the US and Israel to go and fight Iran? Iran is next door," he said. "If any third party is trying to push the region or some country in the region to start a war with Iran, this will be very dangerous," he said.

His comments sparked speculation that he could have been referring to Saudi Arabia, which has led a year-long blockade against Qatar, accusing the emirate of financing terrorist groups and having close ties with Tehran.

Qatar rejects the charges and says the blockading countries -- which also include the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt -- are seeking regime change in Doha.

Responding to a question on whether Qatar's air bases could be used to launch airstrikes against Iran, al-Attiyah said the country was "not a fan of war", and called instead for engagement and dialogue.

"We should call Iran, put all the files on the table, and discuss to bring peace, (rather) than war," he told the Shangri-La Dialogue.

Qatar hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US base in the region which is home to thousands of US personnel and a forward command center.

The minister also called for the restoration of a 2015 agreement between world powers and Iran that lifted sanctions from Tehran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program.

US President Donald Trump last month withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal and ordered the reimposition of sanctions suspended under the accord.Syria's foreign minister says Iranian military advisers are embedded with Syrian troops but Tehran has no combat forces or fixed bases in the country.

Walid al-Muallem told reporters on June 2 that Iran's presence is legitimate and based on an invitation of the government.

Israel has repeatedly warned against any permanent Iranian military presence in Syria. Al-Muallem says Israel is making false claims to try and pressure Iran, its archrival.

In May, Israel carried out a wave of air strikes in response to what it said was an Iranian rocket attack on its positions in the occupied Golan Heights. It was the most serious confrontation between Israel and Iran to date.

Scores of Iranian soldiers have been killed in battles with insurgents in Syria, including a number of officers.

Based on reporting by AP and dpaBaku, Azerbaijan, June 3

By Samir Ali  Trend:

The protection of Armenians by US congressmen, namely, Christopher Smith and Brad Sherman, will not affect the relations between Azerbaijan and the US, Azerbaijani MP Bakhtiyar Sadigov told Trend.

The MP said that the relations between the US and Azerbaijan are long-term and are based on the interests of the two countries.

"Azerbaijan stressed that it is close to the US in the fight against terrorism and in assistance in the military operations in Afghanistan, Sadigov said. Azerbaijan has proved its position by its actions and work.

The US also constantly expresses its support to Azerbaijan, appreciates the countrys merits in Europes energy security, its contribution to the diversification of energy supplies to Europe, he said.

It is not a coincidence that a representative of the US Department of State participated in the opening ceremony of the Southern Gas Corridor, while US President Donald Trump in his letter to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev expressed his readiness for further joint work," Sadigov said.

All this testifies to the level of state relations between Azerbaijan and the US, he said. But it is not a secret that there is very strong Armenian lobby in the US.

"This lobby is very active in political activity, Sadigov said. The lobbyists can take various congressmen, senators in hand, attract them to their side."

For this reason, individuals from time to time make statements that do not correspond to reality and contradict the US state policy, he added.

Each time candidates in the presidential election in the US promise Armenians that on April 24 they will allegedly use such an expression as "Armenian genocide", Sadigov said.

"But President Trump is the only president who has not made such a promise on the eve of the election because Trump was not nominated from the party, he said. Therefore, the dependence of President Trump on Armenians is not felt."

The MP said that some congressmen came under the influence of the Armenian diaspora and expressed opinions that contradicted the US policy from time to time.

"Such statements will not affect the relations between the US and Azerbaijan, Sadigov said. These attempts are completely unimportant. Relations between Azerbaijan and the US are being established at the state level."Baku, Azerbaijan, May 3

Trend:

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received Secretary-General of the International Civil Defence Organisation Vladimir Kuvshinov.

The head of state stressed the importance of the event to be held in Baku tomorrow on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Academy of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as participation of the Secretary-General of the International Civil Defence Organisation in this event.

President Ilham Aliyev expressed his confidence that Azerbaijan and the International Civil Defence Organisation will maintain successful cooperation.

Secretary-General of the International Civil Defence Organisation Vladimir Kuvshinov said he is pleased to attend the event marking the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Academy of Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

He also stressed the significance of the regulations on information exchange to be signed between the Academy of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the International Civil Defence Organisation in terms of strengthening cooperation.

Vladimir Kuvshinov described Azerbaijan as one of the active members of the International Civil Defence Organisation, hailing the country`s contribution to the organization`s activity towards ensuring strategic development.

Works implemented in the field of civil defence in Azerbaijan, and prospects of cooperation were discussed at the meeting.Baku, Azerbaijan, June 3

By Maksim Tsurkov  Trend:

Increase of investments of the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) in the shares will depend, in particular, on the trends observed in the world economy, SOFAZ told Trend.

According to SOFAZ, as mentioned earlier, one of the main directions of SOFAZ's strategy is the creation of a fully diversified portfolio.

"Since 2012, SOFAZ has been investing in the global stock market, investing in highly diversified indices, which include various companies, countries and industries," SOFAZ said. "This process was implemented with the help of both external managers and SOFAZs specialists."

SOFAZ said that at the end of Q12018, 14.2 percent accounted for shares in the investment portfolio, while according to SOFAZs investment policy, up to 25 percent of the portfolio can be invested in the shares.

"In the future, new investments in shares will depend on the trends in the global economy, as well as the situation in the stock market, including expected returns, volatility and many other factors," SOFAZ said.

As of April 1, 2018, the SOFAZ investment portfolio totaled $37.63 billion or almost 100 percent of total amount of assets.

Moreover, 3.4 percent of SOFAZ investment portfolio has been placed in gold, 5.8 percent  in real estate, 14.2 percent  in shares, 76.6 percent  in bonds and other tools of monetary market.

As of April 1, 2018, SOFAZs assets increased by 5.1 percent as compared to early 2018 ($35.806 billion) and amounted to $37.631 billion.

SOFAZ was established in 1999 with assets of $271 million.

Based on SOFAZ's regulations, its funds may be used for construction and reconstruction of strategically important infrastructure facilities, as well as solving important national problems.

The main goals of the State Oil Fund include: accumulation of resources and placement of the fund's assets abroad in order to minimize the negative effect on the economy, the prevention of "Dutch disease" to some extent, promotion of resource accumulation for future generations and support of current social and economic processes in Azerbaijan.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @MTsurkovTrend

Subscribers of Trend News Agency can read this and other exclusive materials before they are published in open access.

More information on Trends news products can be found here.Baku, Azerbaijan, May 31

By Ali Mustafayev  Trend:

New wave of sanctions, that the US plans to impose against Iran in summer 2018, will most likely affect trade ties between Central Asian and Iranian companies, James M. Dorsey, a political analyst, senior fellow at Singapores Nanyang Technological University, told Trend.

"Central Asian countries, having business interests in the United States, especially Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, will strive to avoid the sanctions or worsening ties with the US, taking measures to, at least, keep trade ties with Iran at current level, without extension," said Dorsey.

He added that the companies, whose dollar transactions go through the Federal Reserve in New York, will also try to maintain stability in relations with the US.

"Those companies that have no US dealings and no plans for such business transactions would not be affected, because they would be beyond any practical reach of US law," said Dorsey.

Donald Trump on May 8 said he would take the US out of the nuclear agreement. He also signed a presidential memorandum to re-impose what he described as the "highest level of sanctions" against Iran.

The memorandum specifies that many of the sanctions should be re-imposed in 90 days by - August 6, 2018. The most important ones - as reported by media - would be a ban on Iran over buying or acquiring US dollars.

Another set of sanctions will once again be clamped down on Iran within the next 180 days. The most important sanctions would be those concerning Irans oil sales and energy sector investment as well as transactions with the Central Bank of Iran (CBI).

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @Ali_MustafayevBaku, Azerbaijan, June 3

Trend:

The Agriculture Support Service Company (ASSC), affiliated to Irans Agricultural Ministry, is considering the purchase of three consignment of 33,000 metric tons +-5% of granular triple super phosphate (GTSP) through one step international tender.

All of qualified and interested companies are invited to receive tender documents till June 19, 2018 from the ASSC Purchasing Committee (9th Floor, No. 1, Fourth Alley, Gandhi St., Tehran, Iran). The bidders are requested to submit their letters of introduction, along with remittance  bill of 1.2 million rials ($28) to ASSC account 4001039704005791 with Central Bank of Iran (SHEBA No. IR250100004001039704005791) in order to receive the documents.

The bid participants are required to submit their sealed and stamped envelopes containing offers latest on July 21, 2018 to the ASSC Security Office located on 8th floor.

Meanwhile the meeting for the opening of envelops will be on Saturday, July 22, 2018 at 14:00 with the presence of bidder's representatives in Purchasing Committee.

The ASSC would like to emphasize that the bid bond amount should be in cash or bank guarantee as follows:

168,278 euro (equal to 8.324 billion rials) for each consignment

Phone Number: +98 21 88776325.

Further information would be available at www.assc.ir.Tehran, Iran, June 3

By Kamyar Eghbalnejad - Trend:

Ukrainian parliamentary and state officials held separate meetings with Irans Ambassador in Kiev Mohammad Beheshti Monfared, expressing the eastern European countrys resolve for enhanced cooperation with Tehran in various fields, including energy.

Vice Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine Viktor Sheremeta held talks with Beheshti Monfared in Kiev and called for closer ties between the two nations in the sector agriculture, IRNA reports.

Chairman of Iran-Ukraine parliamentary friendship group Leonid Kozachenko also sat down with the Iranian envoy and said Kiev is ready to boost its ties with Tehran.

An Iranian economic delegation was also present at the meetings.

All sides agreed to increase their cooperation in the fields of investment, banking, and energy.

Monfared had recently said that Iran's non-oil exports to Ukraine amounted to $70 million in 2017, registering a 75 percent rise compared to the year before.

Ukraine mainly exports agro products, such as grains and vegetable oils to Iran, while Iran generally exports petrochemical products, drugs and food products.Baku, Azerbaijan, June 3

Trend:

Irans Mercantile Exchange (IME) will trade frozen Brazilian beef  supplied by Foodexcore Limited, Dubai-based trading company.

The IME said in a statement that it has agreed to host offering of over 2,000 tons of frozen beef in its side market.

The frozen beef produced in Brazil will be offered by JaameJam Bazargan Pishro Co., the statement reads.

The IME was founded in 2007. It trades in agricultural, industrial and petrochemical products in spot and futures markets. There are 70 listed brokerage companies in IME who are members of the exchange licensed by the market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Organization.Baku, Azerbaijan, June 3

Trend:

Crude oil swap from Kirkuk in northern Iraq to Iran started on June 3, the Iranian oil ministrys official SHANA news agency reported.

The two sides started crude oil swap after settling the logistic issues, according to the report.

Tankers, carrying Iraqs crude oil unloaded their cargo at storage tanks belonging to National Iranian Oil Products Distribution Company (NIOPDC) in Darreh Shahr, located in Irans western province of Ilam.

Last December, Iraq and Iran reached an agreement for oil swap for one year.

The deal envisages transport of between 30,000 and 60,000 bpd of Kirkuk crude by tanker trucks to an Iranian refinery across the border. In exchange, Iran will supply the same amount of similar-grade crude to Iraqs southern ports.

The crude deal is in cost, insurance and freight (CIF) sale terms and the seller must pay the costs and freight includes insurance to bring the goods to the port of destination.

The two countries are planning to build a pipeline to carry the oil from Kirkuk to avoid trucking the crude.

The pipeline could replace the existing export route from Kirkuk via Turkey and the Mediterranean.Tehran, Iran, June 3



By Kamyar Eghbalnejad - Trend:



Airports of the Iranian capital city of Tehran will be closed for 5 hours on June 4 as a ceremony to mark the anniversary of the demise of Ayatollah Khomeini, the late founder of the Islamic Republic, will be underway tomorrow, an official said.



Reza Jafarzadeh, the spokesman of Irans Civil Aviation Organization, said Mehrabad and Imam Khomeini international airports will be closed on June 4 from 4:00 pm to 21:00 pm, IRIB reported.



He added that foreign and domestic airlines have been informed of the decision and all relevant companies are instructed to make necessary arrangements.



Built to replace Mehrabad as the country's main airline hub, Imam Khomeini International Airport serves more than 50 airlines carrying millions of passengers every year to and from 30 countries and territories worldwide.



Every year, large crowds of Iranians travel to Tehran from different parts of the country to pay tribute to Ayatollah Khomeini at his shrine.



Ayatollah Ruhollah Moussavi Khomeini engineered Irans 1979 Islamic Revolution, which led to the overthrow of the Shah of Iran.



He passed away on June 3, 1989, at the age of 87.Baku, Azerbaijan, June 3

Trend:

The initiator of the action demanding the resignation of the Georgian government Zaza Saralidze is ready to stop the protest in case of immediate arrest of those whom he considers guilty of the death of his son. He stated this in the capital's Vake Park, where a parallel action is held on Sunday with the slogan "Restoring justice without politicians", which friends and classmates of Zaza's son Saralidze David killed in December 2017.

"Politics do not matter for me, not politics is my interest, I want justice, let those people whom I have named be detained today and I will go home," Saralidze said, demanding to detain the perpetrators of the murder and those who cover them.

The event in the park continues, and the rally in front of the parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue resumes at these moments.

Recall that the protest in the Georgian capital began on May 31 after a court hearing on the case of the murder in Tbilisi in December 2017 of two teenagers, including 16-year-old David Saralidze. The court did not recognize either of the two accused guilty of his murder.

The father of the boy Zaza Saralidze said that the case was not properly investigated, and the prosecutor's office "covers the perpetrators of the murder of his son." He initiated a protest action demanding the resignation of the country's chief prosecutor Irakli Shotadze, who as a result wrote a statement of resignation from his post.

After this protest action moved from the building of the Prosecutor General's Office to Rustaveli Avenue, its participants put forward a new demand for the resignation of the government. Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili sent a case to the Interior Ministry about killing teenagers for a second investigation, instructing him to supervise his department head.A whale has died in southern Thailand after swallowing more than 80 plastic bags, The Independent reported.

The small male pilot whale was found barely alive and vomited up five bags while rescuers battled to save it over four days, marine officials said.

A post-mortem examination revealed 80 plastic bags, weighing up to 1st 3lb, in the creature's stomach.

Thon Thamrongnawasawat, a marine biologist, said the bags had made it impossible for the whale to eat any nutritional food.

"If you have 80 plastic bags in your stomach, you die," he said.

At least 300 marine animals, including pilot whales, sea turtles and dolphins, perish each year in Thai waters after ingesting plastic, he added.

"It's a huge problem. We use a lot of plastic."

Last year Ocean Conservancy found that Thailand is one of the world's top-five plastic polluters, alongside China, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

Together these countries are responsible for more than half of the plastic that washes into the ocean annually  thought to be between eight and 13 million tonnes.

The pilot whale was found on Monday in a canal near the border with Malaysia, Thailand's Department of Marine and Coastal Resources said on Facebook.

Rescuers tried using buoys to keep the mammal afloat, while a sunshade was put up protect it from the blazing sun. It died yesterday.India successfully tested its long range surface-to-surface ballistic missile, Agni-5. The nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) has a strike range of 5,000 km, which can cover most of China.

The missile will eventually be inducted into the tri-service, Strategic Forces Command, which manages Indias nuclear arsenal. With the Agni-5, India will become part of a small group of countries having ICBMs (range of 5,000-5,500 km)  only the US, China, Russia and France are known to have ICBMs.

This was the fifth test of the missile and the third consecutive one from a canister on a road mobile launcher, the defence ministry said in a statement, adding that all the missions were successful. The canister-launch version provides the capability to quickly transport the missile and launch it from anywhere.

The latest test was conducted at about 9.53 am. The flight performance was tracked and monitored by radars, range stations and tracking systems. According to PTI, the missile travelled 19 minutes and covered 4,900 km.

All objectives of the mission have been successfully met. This successful test of Agni-5 reaffirms the countrys indigenous missile capabilities and further strengthens our credible deterrence, said the ministry.

The Agni-5 is the most advanced missile in the Agni series, because of its navigation and guidance, warhead and engine. The missile has been made in a manner that after reaching the peak of its trajectory it will head down to the earths surface, towards the target, with increased speed due to the gravitational pull.More than 350 Syrians have returned to their homes in the Homs province and Eastern Ghouta, a suburb of Damascus, in the past 24 hours, said Major General Alexei Tsygankov, the chief of the Russian center for reconciliation of conflicting sides in Syria, TASS reported.

"Over the past 24 hours, 226 people have come back to their homes in the Homs province and 132 more in Eastern Ghouta," he said on Saturday.

As many as 379 people came out with personal belongings via the humanitarian corridor connecting Tell-Sultan and Abu Duhur.

In the town of Douma, field engineers searched 18 buildings and destroyed four mortars, eight shells and 31 improvised explosive devices over the past 24 hours.

According to Tsygankov, the centers officers have been monitoring the process of infrastructure reconstruction in the town of Jisreyn. Retail trade of daily necessities was resumed in the town; power supplies to the customers were restored. Two schools and the water filtration plant are being refurbished.

Russian military doctors provided medical services to 131 Syrians, including 72 children.A protest march called by Malis opposition just two months ahead of the countrys presidential election has turned violent with at least 16 people injured in clashes with police, Press TV reported.

Witnesses at the scene of the rally in the capital Bamako said police used tear gas and batons to break up the protest by several hundred people outside the headquarters of the ruling party of Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, Mali's current president, who on May 28 announced his candidacy for a second term.

Former Finance and Economy Minister Mamadou Igor Diarra was among the injured, medics at a nearby hospital confirmed. Diarra tweeted that the rally he attended was meant to call for credible elections. I was slightly injured when I took part in a march calling for credible elections. Diarra is among some 15 candidates for the upcoming vote on July 29.

Authorities said the march, organized by the Coalition for Alternation and Change, was illegal under a state of emergency still in place. However, activists said they would continue the protests to stop what they called dictatorship in the West African country.

You see, our march was peaceful. And it was an anti-democratic power that gassed us. The dictatorship will not pass, said Ousmane Kone, an activist who took part in a similar rally in Bamakos central neighborhoods. Reports said police dispersed the protesters at that site.

Oumar Sangare, head of an association which supports change in Mali, said the Saturday march was only meant to urge transparency and fairness in media campaign coverage.

Why do you want us to keep quiet? We're demonstrating to call for transparent elections and equal access to the state broadcaster, said Sangare.Cuba's National Assembly of People's Power on Saturday started to draft a new constitution that will provide an updated legal framework for the ongoing economic transformation in the island nation, Xinhua reported.

At a special session held at Havana's convention center, 572 lawmakers voted to begin the process and appointed a 33-member commission to draft the document.

Former President and First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) Raul Castro heads the commission, while President Miguel Diaz-Canel serves as its deputy head.

"This commission aims to carry out a preliminary draft of the Constitution, which will then be subject to a referendum in which the nation decides," Diaz-Canel told lawmakers.

The commission will take into consideration the "humanist and social justice principles of the revolution," as well as the "irreversibility of the socialist process, national unity and the role of the Communist Party as the country's leading force," said the president.

"Let's work to achieve a constitutional norm that reflects the durability of a sovereign, independent, socialist, democratic, prosperous and sustainable nation," he said.

Diaz-Canel called on the commission, made up of lawmakers and officials representing different sectors of society, to draft a document that is inclusive and strengthens the role of the state.

"To modify the current text it will be necessary to evaluate the experiences of our socialism, study constitutional processes carried out in other countries, and aspects of our history and constitutional tradition," added Cuba's head of state.

The current constitution, adopted in 1976 and amended in 1978, 1992 and 2002, does not adequately respond to circumstances that have changed over time, said Diaz-Canel.

Since 2010, Cuba has launched numerous reforms aimed at modernizing the national economy while preserving its socialist ideals.

A small private sector has flourished, after extensive state control over almost all economic activity was relaxed. A new law recognizing medium and small private businesses is expected to be approved.

The draft, which could take months to complete, will be put to a referendum, in which more than 9 million Cubans will be able to participate.The UN has called for calm in Mali after dozens of people were hurt during banned opposition protests in Bamako, sparking calls for the prime minister to resign two months ahead of a presidential election, Press TV reported.

The opposition said some 30 people were hospitalized -- including prominent opposition figure Etienne Fabaka Sissoko who was left "in a coma" -- after security forces fired "live ammunition" at protesters on Saturday.

The government rejected the claims outright.

"It is absolutely false to say that shots were fired using live ammunition," a source close to the security ministry told AFP.

Earlier Sunday, the ministry said the security forces were bound by three words -- "professionalism, courtesy and firmness" and that the police had acted to maintain public order.

It denounced the protestors for having injured a policeman in the head.

A "transparency" rally outside the party headquarters of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita attracted several hundred people.

Police fired tear gas and beat demonstrators with batons, according to an AFP reporter at the scene. Clashes also took place in other locations.UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who visited Mali last week, called late Saturday for "calm and restraint by all parties".

"(He) calls on the Malian government to ensure the protection of fundamental human rights and freedom of expression to peaceful demonstrations, including in the context of the ongoing state of emergency," a UN statement said.

Mali is one of the so-called "G5 Sahel" states -- along with Burkina Faso, Chad, Mauritania and Niger -- which have launched joint operations against militant groups.

Most protests are banned as the nation has lived under a near-constant state of emergency since an attack on a hotel in Bamako in November 2015 left 20 people dead.A counterterrorism operation regime has been introduced in the Tsumadinsky District of Russia's Dagestan Republic, a spokesman for the operation headquarters told Sputnik on Sunday.

The counterterrorism operation regime was declared in some areas of the Tsumadinsky District, including the settlements of Kvanada and Gimerso, from 4:15 a.m. Moscow time [01:15 GMT], the spokesman said.

According to the spokesman, searches for the gunmen and their accomplices are underway.

Two months ago, the National Anti-Terrorism Committee reported that a criminal with links to the Daesh terror group was neutralized during a counterterrorist operation in Russia's southern Republic of Dagestan.By Moses Ndhaye.

The Bishop of Namirembe diocese Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira has announced a one Month fasting period to pray for the problems that have ravaged the country.

According to Luwalira who was speaking at the martyrs day celebration at the Anglican Shrine, the fasting period which kicked off on 1st June is meant to ask for Gods intervention in the current spate of kidnaps and murders and other problems faced by the country.

Luwalira says the problems being faced by the country are now beyond man and that it is Only God who will be able to help.

He meanwhile revealed that next years martyrs day celebrations will be led by West Buganda , central Buganda , Luweero , Mukono, and Mityana.

At the Anglican shrine, 23 martyrs were killed for their faith on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga.At least nine migrants died and one is missing after a speedboat sank near the Turkish southern province of Antalya on Sunday.

The boat, carrying 15 people, sunk at around 02:22 local time the outlet reported.

Among those dead were six children, two men, and one woman. The rescuers reportedly managed to save five people, four men, and a woman. Their nationality was not specified.

In 2015, a migration crisis erupted in Europe as waves of migrants and asylum-seekers fleeing violence and crises in the Middle East and Northern Africa, started to arrive in the EU member states. Most of them used illegal routes by sea, which resulted in many deaths since the boats often capsized and sank.

According to Eurostat, there were up to 2,5 million first-time asylum applicants in European Union since 2015. The biggest groups among them were Syrians, Afghani, Pakistani and Iraqi refugees.KYODO NEWS - Jun 3, 2018 - 21:25 | World, All

The upcoming summit between the leaders of the United States and North Korea will most likely be held on Singapore's resort island of Sentosa, reliable sources told Kyodo News on Sunday.

The sources, who have knowledge of plans for the summit, said the United States has chosen Sentosa, off the southern coast of Singapore, to be the venue for the talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12.

However, the North Korean side has not yet given its nod to the proposed venue.

One of the hotels on Sentosa will be used for the summit.

(Singapore's resort island of Sentosa)

"Not sure of the reason for the delay in confirmation" from Pyongyang, one of the sources said, adding that logistical negotiations for the summit are still very "fluid."

"The delay could be due to the time taken for the communication between both sides," the source said. "After the United States settled on the venue, the other side needs to assess the venue and whether the personal preference of Kim has been met."

While the United States will be paying its part, Singapore as the host may have to sponsor some of the costs of organizing the summit as North Korea "has no foreign exchange and it is heavily sanctioned, which means it does not have much international currency."

Advance teams of working-level delegations from the United States and North Korea had gathered earlier last week at the Capella Singapore, a luxury hotel on Sentosa, to discuss logistics and security issues related to the summit.

As Sentosa is a tiny island, linked to the mainland by a 380-meter causeway, it is easy to ensure security there during the period of the summit if it actually takes place.

The sources said the North Korean side, especially Kim, does not trust international hotels and would prefer to stay in locally owned hotels in the city-state. For example, the Fullerton hotel, where the North Korean delegation stayed for the logistical preparations, is owned by Singaporeans who have close links to business interests in China.

If Kim stays at the Fullerton, and Trump also stays at a hotel in the city-center, both parties will likely make their way to Sentosa island for the summit.

The island's name "Sentosa" means peace and tranquility in the Malay language. The island is home to the Universal Studios theme park and several five-star hotels, a convention center and a casino.KYODO NEWS - Jun 3, 2018 - 14:18 | All, World

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un told U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during a recent meeting that he was well aware of the abduction issue with Japan, Japanese government sources said Saturday.

Kim made the comment as Pompeo raised the need to resolve the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by Pyongyang in the 1970s and 1980s, the sources said.

The Japanese government has been analyzing what Kim's real intentions are, including whether he made the remark to indicate he understood the importance of resolving the issue, the sources said.

[KCNA/UPI/Kyodo]

It is the first time that exchanges over the abduction issue during high-level preparatory talks between Washington and Pyongyang for the summit have come to light.

As North Korea has maintained that the abduction issue has been settled, Tokyo has asked Washington to raise it in the run-up to the U.S.-North Korea summit, which will be held on June 12 in Singapore.

In either of his two recent meetings with Kim in North Korea -- one on April 1 as director of the Central Intelligence Agency and the other on May 9 as secretary of state -- Pompeo urged Kim to address the abduction issue, according to the sources.

Pompeo also explained that Japan would extend economic support if the abduction, nuclear and missile issues are resolved in a comprehensive manner and Japan-North Korea relations are normalized, the sources added.

On May 12, North Korea's state-run media reiterated Pyongyang's stance on its past abductions.

"The reactionaries of Japan are hyping the 'issue of abduction' which had already been settled," the Korean Central News Agency said in English at the time.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has made it a priority for his administration to resolve the long-standing issue that has been close to his heart.

(Japan PM Shinzo Abe)

Abe will ask U.S. President Donald Trump again next Thursday to take up the abduction issue when he meets with Kim, as the prime minister plans to stop by the United States before traveling to Canada for a Group of Seven leaders' summit.

Japan officially lists 17 of its citizens as having been abducted by North Korea and suspects Pyongyang's involvement in other disappearances.

Five of the 17 were repatriated to Japan in 2002 but no major progress has been made since then. North Korea maintains eight have died and the other four were never in the country.

In 2014, Tokyo and Pyongyang reached an accord in Stockholm on principles for negotiations toward the settlement of their key issues, including the abduction problem, and agreed to report the results of North Korea's own investigation into Japanese abductees.

But the negotiations have been stalled with Pyongyang repeatedly postponing the reporting.

North Korea in 2016 disbanded a special committee looking into the whereabouts of missing Japanese nationals suspected of being abducted after Japan decided to tighten unilateral sanctions on the North. The stricter sanctions were decided in response to Pyongyang's series of nuclear and ballistic missile tests.Pinarayi Vijayan said the decision was taken in a Cabinet meeting, where it was also decided that the additional relief would be made available only to BPL dependents of the deceased.By Ritah Kemigisa.

Thousands have thronged the Catholic and Anglican catholic shrines to celebrate the Uganda Martyrs Day.

The annual celebration has attracted hundreds of foot pilgrims from far and wide including neighboring countries like Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo.

Security has since been tightened at both Shrines with several roads leading there blocked by traffic police to allow easy flow of traffic.

The areas that have been cut off are; Nalya Roundabout, Kireka trading center, Kiira Town Council Roundabout, Bweyogerere Trading Centre, Seeta Trading Centre and Kyaliwajjala Trading center.

Meanwhile this years celebrations and prayers at the catholic shrine are being led by Tororo Archdiocese.

Archbishop Emmanuel Obbo will be in the spotlight as the main celebrant.

At the Anglican shrine, Celebrations are being led by Kigezi diocese and The Rt Rev Stanley Ntagali will lead the service and the guest preacher will be the Rt Rev William Grant, the archbishop of Winchester Uk.

In the meantime,Ugandans and other Africans based in Europe will celebrate the Martyrs day at Lourdel Mapeera to pay tribute to the French priest who is popularly known as Mapeera.

The Martyrs day is observed by nations to salute the martyrdom of soldiers who lost their lives defending the sovereignty of the nation.

A group of 23 Anglicans and 22 catholic converts to Christianity were executed between January on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga.In just five days, marijuana history could be made. On Thursday, June 7, Canada's Senate is set to vote on bill C-45, which is more commonly referred to as the Cannabis Act. If passed, it would become the first developed country in the world to legalize adult-use marijuana, with sales expected to commence in August or September.

At this point, passage looks to be all but certain. Conservatives in the Senate who'd opposed the Cannabis Act are clearly in the minority, and a two-year tax-sharing agreement lined up with most provinces bears hope that Canada has all of its ducks in a row. It's this expectation of passage that's sent pot stocks ascending to the heavens in recent years.

But whether you're a cannabis proponent, investor, or casual sideline observer, there's probably quite a bit you don't know about Canada's marijuana industry. Here are a few of the more important points to help educate yourself.

Cannabis buds next to a piece of paper that says yes, lying atop dozens of miniature Canadian flags.

Image source: Getty Images.

1. Exports are going to be the key to its success

Legalizing adult-use cannabis in Canada is expected to generate in the neighborhood of $5 billion for the industry. But, truth be told, not all of the cannabis being grown in the country will be sold to domestic consumers. In reality, Canadian growers have been ramping up their operations with the hope of securing long-term supply deals with the more than two dozen countries around the world that have legalized medical marijuana.

With the exception of the Netherlands, no other country aside from Canada is actively exporting marijuana. Australia and Israel have plans to become exporters, but they'll be producing peanuts compared to what Canadian growers plan to export to foreign markets.

2. Cannabis taxes are so low, legal weed could steal beer and liquor industry market share

One of the keys to successfully launching recreational weed in Canada, according to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is eliminating the black market from the equation. In order to do so, legal pot prices have to be comparable to the black market. The proposed tax on Canadian weed, which was outlined in October, is $0.77 per gram (CA$1) on cannabis sales costing up to $7.70 (CA$10), and a flat 10% tax on more expensive cannabis strains. By comparison, some folks in California who are purchasing recreational marijuana could be paying up to a 45% tax rate.

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How good of a deal is this for Canadians? According to Aaron Wudrick, the Canadian Taxpayers Federation federal director, Canadians are liable for a tax of about 80% on spirits, 65% to 70% on wine, and roughly 50% on beer. This clear gap in taxation may cause some consumers to switch away from various forms of alcohol in favor of cannabis. This makes spirits giant Constellation Brands' investment in Canopy Growth Corp. (NYSE: CGC) last year seem all the wiser.

A judge's gavel next to trimmed cannabis buds.

Image source: Getty Images.

3. Legalization may look different in each province

You should also be aware that each of Canada's provinces may choose to enforce the legalization of adult-use pot differently. For example, each of Canada's provinces have set the legal age of consumption limit at 19 or above, except for Alberta, which will allow adults ages 18 and up to legally purchase marijuana.

Another difference? Some provinces will offer privately run retail stores, whereas some will not. For instance, Quebec and Ontario will only allow consumers to purchase from government-operated storefronts and via online sales. Meanwhile, Saskatchewan won't have any government-operated storefronts, with private retail stores and online sales offering the only means to legally purchase pot.

4. Bought-deal offerings have provided public companies with a financial lifeline

In order to expand production as quickly as they have, publicly traded Canadian pot stocks have had to raise a lot of capital, and have had only one true means to do so: bought-deal offerings. A bought-deal offering is nothing more than the sale of common stock, convertible debentures, stock options, and/or warrants to an investor or group of investors in order to raise capital. Since marijuana is (at least for the time being) still illegal, banks have generally wanted nothing to do with pot businesses.

The upside is that these offerings have provided pot stocks with more than enough capital to grow their operations. The aforementioned Canopy Growth has tripled its licensed growing capacity to 2.4 million square feet just since the year began, and it's aiming for 5.7 million square feet of licensed capacity at its peak.

Of course, be aware that this easy access to financing comes at a price: an increase in the number of shares outstanding. This could adversely impact EPS for years to come.

Jars filled with trimmed cannabis buds on a counter.

Image source: Getty Images.

5. The industry is undersupplied (for now), but won't be for long

Lastly, keep in mind that while the supply and demand outlook is mostly guesswork at this point, the industry is initially expected to be undersupplied with cannabis. This is due to the fact that marijuana growers are still in the process of ramping up their operations, as well as receiving cultivation license approvals from Health Canada. Some of the largest players in the industry may not even be at full production capacity until 2020.

However, it's not out of the question that a cannabis oversupply develops in the years to come. With domestic annual demand expected to range between 800,000 kilograms and 1 million kilograms, according to various government reports, and the industry capable of perhaps 2.4 million kilograms of production (if not more) by 2020, figuring out where the extra 1 million kilograms or more will go each year isn't easy. Exports may be able to gobble up all of this excess, which is why they're expected to play such a crucial role for the industry. But if exports can't absorb all of the cannabis produced by growers, expect a sharp decline in cannabis' per-gram price to follow.

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Sean Williams has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.In 1886, Charles Hall invented the modern process for manufacturing aluminum in the shed behind his Ohio home. Two years later, he co-founded the Aluminum Company of America, which was later renamed to its acronym: Alcoa (NYSE: AA). While a lot has changed over the last 130 years or so, a critical part of aluminum smelting remains the same: the requirement to burn a carbon-based material in the final step.

Because the step is a process-related chemical reaction, carbon dioxide is emitted even when the overall process is powered by renewable energy. It's a big deal. That single chemical reaction accounts for 20% of all emissions from global aluminum production, which accounts for 1% of the planet's total carbon emissions -- equivalent to the greenhouse gas output of the United Kingdom. Aluminum's importance as a material, used in everything from your iPhone to your fuel-efficient car, largely forces manufacturers to accept the environmental burden. But that will soon change.

Alcoa created a new process for manufacturing aluminum that produces oxygen, rather than carbon dioxide, in the final reaction step to yield the world's first truly carbon-free aluminum production process. While the environmental breakthrough has major implications for the industry and planet at large, it could also transform the business as investors know it today.

A hand holding up a light bulb with a tree in the background.

Image source: Getty Images.

Carbon-free aluminum, explained

It shouldn't be understated: Removing direct carbon dioxide emissions from the smelting process has been the holy grail of the aluminum industry for decades. It's fitting that Alcoa was the company to discover the breakthrough, but the technology wouldn't have left the lab without some help.

During its global search for lower-impact materials, Apple stumbled onto the Alcoa lab in Pittsburgh toiling away at aluminum processing improvement. The technology giant is one of the world's largest consumers of aluminum and has worked hard in recent years to source all of its energy from renewable sources, in addition to encouraging its materials suppliers to implement greener, cleaner, and more ethical production processes.

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In fact, Apple facilitated the partnership between Alcoa and Rio Tinto (NYSE: RIO). The miner came on board to form a joint venture called Elysis (from "electrolysis," the process that was altered to remove carbon dioxide emissions) that will license the technology package to global aluminum smelters by 2024.

To do that, a little more research and development is required. So, the nation of Canada and province of Quebec are contributing a combined $92.5 million for additional research, while Apple is throwing in $11 million to go along with $42 million from the JV partners. That's a small price to pay for the possibility of forever altering the aluminum company's business.

Aluminum ingots stacked.

Image source: Getty Images.

Alcoa, technology provider?

After splitting away from Arconic to focus on the aluminum supply chain, which includes bauxite and alumina, Alcoa has made tremendous progress transforming itself. That transformation has largely focused on improving its financial strength by lowering debt, reducing its pension obligation shortfalls, and maintaining the cash kept on the balance sheet above $1 billion.

So far, so good. The aluminum leader ended 2017 with $1.36 billion in cash on hand and generated $2.68 billion in total adjusted EBITDA for the year -- easily the highest total in years. It's expected to get even better this year, as the company's full-year 2018 guidance calls for adjusted EBITDA of $3.5 billion to $3.7 billion.

The transformation comes at a pivotal time in Alcoa's history. The company has recently turned its reliance on hydroelectric power, which provides 70% of its electricity consumption, into a competitive advantage by creating the premium Sustana brand of "green aluminum." Although it produces about 2.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide per metric ton of aluminum, it's the lowest-carbon aluminum on the market. Rio Tinto's RenewAl brand emits 4 tons of carbon dioxide per ton of metal, while coal-fired smelters in China cough up 18 tons of carbon dioxide per ton.

A hydroelectric dam spillway.

Image source: Getty Images.

That said, green aluminum is relatively new, so it's difficult to determine the significance of the trend in the near term. But the emergence of Elysis creates the possibility for truly carbon-free aluminum for all smelters using renewable energy in the long term. The new smelting process's potential to act as a force multiplier for the fledgling green aluminum market could encourage major producers to invest in cleaner production ahead of 2024. Customers may even demand it, and no producer will want to be left behind.

That could help the technology packages sold by Elysis to sell like hotcakes in several years -- and reposition the North American aluminum industry as the center of the global industry in the process. In fact, that seems to be a crucial part of the long-term strategy for Alcoa and even Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. As stated in the press release: "When fully developed and implemented, it will eliminate direct greenhouse gas emissions from the smelting process and strengthen the closely integrated Canada-United States aluminum and manufacturing industry. The new joint venture company will also sell proprietary anode and cathode materials, which will last more than 30 times longer than traditional components."

The key here for investors is that the technology packages will include process know-how and materials required to enable the carbon-free smelting process. Those will be provided by Elysis (and sourced from the United States), opening the door for substantial technology licensing revenue for Alcoa through its equity investment. That could provide a steady foundation of profits in an industry known for volatility and high costs. And that's on top of the company's ability to implement the technology at its own smelters worldwide to provide the world's first global supply of carbon-free aluminum products.

Aluminum rolls sitting in a warehouse.

Image source: Getty Images.

Alcoa is going green -- and taking everyone with it

While 2024 is several years away, the announcement of Alcoa's carbon-free aluminum smelting process couldn't have come at a better time. The company is the strongest it has been in years, thanks to severe imbalances in the global market for alumina and aluminum. That provides it financial flexibility to ramp up investments in Elysis, if necessary.

Meanwhile, most major producers just began offering green aluminum brands created using renewable energy, but can't market them as "carbon-free" because of the emissions involved in the final smelting step. That could change in 2024 should they license the technology package from Elysis -- and customers such as major automakers or Apple may even demand it.

If that results in a race to increase renewable energy in the aluminum industry in the next few years, then investors should take it as a proxy for the eventual success of the new process technology. It could be truly transformational for Alcoa, and forever change the face of the company.

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Maxx Chatsko has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends AAPL. The Motley Fool has the following options: long January 2020 $150 calls on AAPL and short January 2020 $155 calls on AAPL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.The biggest challenge that tobacco giant Altria Group (NYSE: MO) has faced in recent years has been the secular decline in cigarette smoking. So far, Altria has been able to do a good job of boosting prices on its loyal customer base in order to offset the negative impact of sliding overall volume. But recently, the shift in interest away from regular cigarettes toward alternatives like e-cigarettes, vaping, and heated-tobacco units has forced Altria to consider more seriously the need to keep up with the pack in pursuit of reduced-risk products.

With longtime chief executive Marty Barrington having recently stepped down, now was a good time for new CEO Howard Willard to redefine the tobacco giant's philosophy and strategic thinking toward reduced-risk products. Altria announced a sweeping restructuring that it hopes will be able to bring the company closer to realizing the full potential of innovative tobacco products, and although investors haven't really reacted immediately to the news, the impact of the strategic shift could make or break Altria's future in the long run.

Altria logo on sign outside one of its facilities.

Image source: Altria Group.

Refocusing on innovation

During the new CEO's time as chief operating officer prior to his promotion, Willard had the responsibility of overseeing all of Altria's operating companies. That included not only the divisions that generated the lion's share of revenue and profits that kept Altria's current success intact but also the newer business lines that have the greatest potential for future growth. With a single person having to divide attention between those two very different strategies, the pace of innovation wasn't always as fast as Altria and its investors had hoped.

Willard's proposal will take the tobacco side of Altria's business and break it into two parts. The core tobacco division will consist of the Philip Morris USA cigarette business, the U.S. Smokeless Tobacco unit, Middleton cigars, and Nat Sherman premium tobacco products. Going forward, these units will report to tobacco products Senior Vice President Jody Begley, who in turn will have CFO Billy Gifford overseeing him.

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Meanwhile, all of the reduced-risk products in Altria's current and prospective pipeline will fall under the jurisdiction of Nu Mark, which has been Altria's primary electronic cigarette brand. New Nu Mark CEO Brian Quigley will lead the innovative products business, reporting directly to Willard. The company will oversee not only the e-vapor and innovative inhalable products business but also oral nicotine-containing products, which will potentially include some forms of smokeless tobacco.

One interesting thing about the two divisions is who Willard has chosen to lead them. Quigley's experience has largely been in the smokeless tobacco and cigarette divisions, with the executive having led U.S. Smokeless since 2012. Conversely, Begley has been president and general manager of Nu Mark since 2015. Cross-pollinating these positions is an interesting way to ensure that the entire company shares insights across divisions.

Going for growth

In addition to those moves, Altria will also have a Chief Growth Officer position. This role will seek out the best growth opportunities in both traditional and alternative products, identifying consumer trends that it can then translate into product development ideas, as well as the subsequent marketing and consumer engagement once those products are available for the general public.

In particular, Altria wants to make sure it has the talent and resources it needs to remain atop the tobacco industry and push forward with innovative product development. That will work toward achieving what it calls its "aspiration of being the U.S. leader in authorized, non-combustible, reduced-risk products."

What's ahead for Altria?

Obviously, just having a corporate restructuring won't solve the problem of actually coming up with good products that people want to buy. But Altria's strategy does send a message throughout the company and to the broader tobacco industry that the Marlboro maker is serious about building out its capacity beyond traditional cigarettes and its other legacy products.

Going forward, Altria will need to squeeze as much value from its strategic move as it can. Only with success will the tobacco giant be able to evolve with the rest of the industry effectively.

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Dan Caplinger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.Hiring Brian Niccol as CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) was hailed as a smart move because of his success in transforming Taco Bell into an innovative, modern fast food chain.

However, uprooting the fast-casual company's corporate home of 25 years to appease the incoming executive at a time when the business is still in a precarious situation may be a sign he will not integrate as seamlessly with the company as expected.

One step forward

Chipotle Mexican Grill posted a better than expected first quarter earnings report in late April and Niccol was able to preside over a conference call with analysts that allowed him to lay out a strategy for the future. The response from the market was to send the stock soaring 24% and with the gains it has made in the weeks since, Chipotle shares are now up 75% since his hiring in February.

CMG Chart

Data source: YCharts.

That's a lot of betting that Niccol will be able to work his magic again, but it's still a tall order. Chipotle has yet to leave the shadow of its late-2015 E. coli outbreak, and while comparable store sales were up for the quarter, that was mostly the result of price increases. Profit margins were also higher but on weak comparisons as the bar was pretty low after years of dismal results.

The more important metric -- guest traffic -- fell yet again, down 3.3% for the period, and winning back that customer loyalty remains a challenge..

Pulling up stakes

Niccol laid out a roadmap on the earnings call of melding the menu with a digital presence to drive home to young consumers that Chipotle's "accessible food done fast" is still appealing. But he's also made sure the company is going to be distracted with other priorities, namely moving the company headquarters to his hometown.

Even though Denver has been Chipotle's home since its founding in 1993, and despite having signed in December a 15-year lease to occupy a brand new office tower in downtown Denver, the restaurant recently announced it was moving its headquarters to the upscale city Newport Beach in California where Niccol lives.

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The move also impacts Chipotle's New York offices, which will be permanently closed and relocated to California, though support staff will be consolidated into offices in Columbus, Ohio. The relocation affects roughly 400 employees in Denver and New York as only some will be given relocation and retention packages.

The upheaval will be spread out over six months despite the fact that this is a time Chipotle should be working to reestablish itself as the country's premier fast casual restaurant. The move is an unnecessary distraction and indicates Chipotle is putting the needs of its CEO over that of its employees.

Inside a Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurant with the food line and workers.

New CEO risks causing a tumult by relocating Chipotle's corporate headquarters so he can work close to home. Image source: Chipotle Mexican Grill.

There's no place like home

In the press release announcing the move, Niccol said the transition "will help us drive sustainable growth while continuing to position us well in the competition for top talent."

The reality is more likely Niccol didn't want to move and relocating the offices was probably a condition of his accepting the position. Taco Bell headquarters, where he worked since 2011, is located in Irvine, less than 15 miles from Newport Beach.

While a number of other fast food chains are located in the southern California area, including Del Taco, In-n-Out Burger, and of course Taco Bell, the idea Chipotle needs to locate there as well for business reasons seems specious. The disruption to employees and operations is a much larger concern.

Chipotle was supposed to be occupying some 126,000 square feet of space across five floors of the new 40-story office building, but now it will be responsible for subleasing the space or finding a new tenant.

Because of Niccol's background in marketing, and his success in using that skill to change the perception around Taco Bell, we'll likely see a much higher profile for Chipotle Mexican Grill. Those increased costs will eat into profits, particularly if its new delivery service continues growing as it did last quarter. The deal with DoorDash will also swipe profits from the restaurant, though obviously the hope is Chipotle will be making up in volume what it's losing on each order.

Chipotle Mexican Grill isn't Taco Bell, however, and it's not quite clear that what worked with fast food can have similar results in the fast casual space, which continues to lag behind other segments of the restaurant industry.

One quarter does not make a trend and feeling Niccol was the only person that could lead the turnaround so that already-set plans should be disrupted suggests the new CEO might not be the neat fit to the corporate culture he was originally believed to be.

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Rich Duprey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Chipotle Mexican Grill. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.MarketWatch

Shares of AT&T Inc. dropped 0.6% in afternoon trading Wednesday, putting them on track to suffer the longest losing streak in a year, and as they headed for the lowest close since July 2010. The stock has shed 7.5% over the past six sessions, which would be the longest stretch of losses since the nine-day loss streak that ended Oct. 21, 2020. The selloff has boosted AT&T's implied dividend yield to 8.23%, making it the second-highest yielding stock in the S 500 , just below fellow communicationsPalestinian mourners carry the body of a volunteer paramedic Razan Najjar, 21, during her funeral in town of Khan Younis, Southern Gaza Strip, Saturday, June 2, 2018. Najjar was killed by Israeli fire Friday during mass protests in the Gaza Strip, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

KHUZAA, Gaza Strip (AP) -- Thousands of Palestinians, including hundreds of medical workers in white uniforms, took part Saturday in the funeral procession of a colleague who was shot dead by Israeli troops the previous day along the Israel-Gaza border.

Razan Najjar, a 21-year-old volunteer paramedic, was shot as she tried to help evacuate wounded near Israel's perimeter fence with Gaza. She was the second woman among more than 115 Palestinians who have been killed by Israeli army fire since Gaza border protests began in late March.

U.N. officials condemned the killing of Najjar, saying that witness reports indicated she wore clothing that clearly identified her as a health worker.

"The killing of a clearly identified medical staffer by security forces during a demonstration is particularly reprehensible," said Jamie McGoldrick, the local U.N. humanitarian coordinator.

After Najjar's funeral, dozens of mourners headed to the fence and started throwing stones at the Israeli soldiers on the other side. The Palestinian Health Ministry said five protesters were wounded by Israeli fire.

Later Saturday, in a development that threatened to collapse an informal cease-fire, the Israeli military said two projectiles were fired from Gaza. One was intercepted by the Iron Dome defense system and the other landed inside Gaza. Earlier this week, Gaza militants fired a large barrage at Israel, which responded with heavy strikes on Gaza installations.

Early Sunday, the Israeli military said fighter jets attacked three Hamas military compounds in response to the rocket fire. It said it struck a total of 10 targets, including weapons manufacturing and storage sites. Militants responded by firing another projectile that was intercepted, the army said.

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Meanwhile, in the West Bank, the Israeli military said its troops shot dead a Palestinian who tried to ram a tractor into its forces.

The military said its initial investigation revealed that a 35-year-old Palestinian from a village near Hebron tried to run over an officer with a Bobcat tractor. The attacker then turned around and tried to attack nearby Israeli civilians, the military said.

It said a soldier opened fire, killing the assailant. No Israeli troops were harmed.

Since 2015, Palestinians have killed over 50 Israelis, two visiting Americans and a British tourist in stabbings, shootings and car-ramming attacks. Over 260 Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces in that time. Israel says most were attackers. The attacks have petered off in recent months as the Palestinian focus has shifted toward mass protests at the Gaza border.

On Friday, the Palestinians protested for the 10th week in a row. The military said some hurled grenades and pipe bombs at troops behind the border fence. Some 40 Palestinians were wounded and Najjar was the only one killed.

The Khan Younis hospital said Najjar had a gunshot wound in the chest with an exit wound in the back.

The military said its troops operated "in accordance with standard operating procedures" and that it was investigating the incident.

Israel insists that throughout the weeks-long campaign its troops have fired only at instigators and that Hamas has been cynically using the demonstrations as cover to carry out attacks. But military officials have acknowledged shooting some people by mistake due to the crowded and smoky conditions of the protests.

On Saturday, the military said it thwarted a Palestinian attempt to damage the security fence surrounding Gaza and a group of militants briefly entered Israel before fleeing back into Gaza when Israeli troops opened fire.

Palestinians and human rights groups have accused Israeli forces of using excessive force, and of killing unarmed Palestinians who did not pose an imminent threat both in the West Bank and Gaza.

Najjar's body was wrapped in a Palestinian flag as the funeral procession started from the hospital and passed near her home in Khuzaa, a village near the Khan Younis that is close to the border and has served as one of five protest encampments across Gaza in recent weeks. She was the eldest of six siblings.

"I want the world to hear my voice ... what's my daughter's fault?" asked her mother Sabreen, dressed in black and seated on a mattress in her living room. "She will leave a large emptiness at home."

On May 14, when the protests peaked over the opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, a 14-year-old girl, Wessal Sheikh Khalil, was the first female protesters to be shot dead. She was among more than 60 people killed that day, the deadliest since a war between Hamas and Israel ended in 2014.

The Gaza protests are being organized by the territory's militant Hamas leadership and are aimed at drawing attention to the decade-long Israeli-Egyptian blockade on the territory. The blockade, meant to weaken Hamas, has caused widespread economic hardship in Gaza. The protesters are also demanding the "right of return" for Palestinian refugees from the 1948 war and their descendants.

Fares al-Kidra, a colleague of Najjar, said they were approaching the fence to evacuate a wounded man and, as they were leaving, three gunshots were heard and Najjar fell to the ground.

Al-Mezan, a Gaza-based rights group, said Najjar was 100 meters from the fence and wearing a clearly marked paramedic's vest when she was shot.

Social media videos, and one captured by Associated Press footage, showed Najjar and a cohort of medics walking toward the fence and raising their hands to reach a wounded man lying on the ground. Najjar wore a dark blue headscarf and a white coat with the logo of the Palestinian Medical Relief Society, where she volunteered.

Izzat Shatat, 23, a volunteering ambulance worker, said he and Najjar were set to announce their engagement at the end of the holy month of Ramadan. He said he was worried and asked her not to go to the border area Friday but she refused.

"She helped all people. She has never refused to help. She was the first to run toward anybody when he is shot," he said in tears.Alaska Air's (NYSE: ALK) 2016 acquisition of Virgin America set off a chain reaction that dramatically intensified competition among airlines in California. Alaska Airlines started the process by launching dozens of new California routes, with a particular emphasis on routes from the Bay Area, which was Virgin America's primary stronghold.

Several competitors soon responded with new flights of their own, as they worked to protect their market share in California. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) was particularly aggressive in this regard. This caused a fare war to break out.

However, with fuel prices rising and profitability eroding -- particularly for Alaska Airlines -- the two carriers seem to have called a truce. That's good news for shareholders, as a more rational competitive environment will help both carriers get unit revenue growing again.

A rendering of an Alaska Airlines plane flying above clouds

Alaska Airlines' profitability has eroded dramatically over the past year. Image source: Alaska Airlines.

Competition takes a toll

Southwest Airlines operates more daily flights to and from California than any other carrier. Thus, it's not surprising that it felt threatened by Alaska Air's aggressive move into the California market. Over the past year or so, Southwest has added dozens of daily flights in California (mainly Northern California).

The increased competitive intensity on California routes drove airfares down significantly. As a result, Alaska Air has faced severe margin pressure since the second half of 2017. Initially, Southwest Airlines seemed to feel no ill effects, but it too has struggled to grow unit revenue since the beginning of 2018.

Given that the price of jet fuel has skyrocketed this year, Alaska and Southwest cannot afford a prolonged bout of unit revenue weakness. Alaska Air began implementing major capacity cuts in March. And in the past month and a half, both carriers have announced additional moves that will reduce the level of competition between them to a more sustainable level.

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Pulling out of noncore markets

In late April, Southwest Airlines agreed to lease Alaska Airlines' four within-perimeter slot pairs at Washington, D.C.'s Reagan Airport and its six slot pairs at New York's LaGuardia Airport. The lease begins this fall and runs for 10 years.

A Southwest Airlines plane preparing to land

Southwest will expand in New York and Washington, D.C., in November. Image source: Southwest Airlines.

None of these slots can be used for flights to the West Coast, making them a poor strategic fit for Alaska Airlines, which describes itself as a West Coast airline. Alaska (and Virgin America before it) has used the slots at both airports for flights to Dallas Love Field, Southwest Airlines' home airport. This was a competitive battle that Alaska was bound to lose: The Love Field routes to New York and Washington, D.C. have never been profitable.

Thus, this slot lease agreement is a clear win-win. Alaska will get out of money-losing markets and will gain some steady lease income, while Southwest Airlines will have one less competitor to face on two key routes and will be able to expand in New York and Washington, D.C., two important markets.

Last week, Southwest Airlines announced the latest changes to its flight schedule, including a handful of new California routes and additional flights on routes including San Jose-Portland, Oregon and San Jose-Orange County, California. This might make it seem like Southwest is still putting the screws to Alaska Airlines in California.

However, Southwest Airlines will simultaneously cancel its San Francisco-Portland and San Francisco-Orange County routes. Alaska has its main Northern California hub in San Francisco, so it will benefit from Southwest's capacity shift away from San Francisco.

Alaska Airlines needed this badly

Last quarter, Alaska Air Group posted a shockingly low pre-tax margin of 1.3%, down from 11% a year earlier. (Profitability would have been even worse but for the favorable timing of Easter.) Some of this margin pressure related to merger pains and rising fuel costs, but the intensity of competition on many of Alaska's routes also played a major role.

Southwest Airlines' profitability held up much better last quarter, although its margin erosion is on pace to accelerate in the second quarter.

Both carriers will benefit as they retreat from markets where the other is stronger. Alaska will be the bigger winner, though, because it is less than half of Southwest's size and hasn't had as many high-performing routes to balance out the impact of unit revenue weakness in California. Indeed, Alaska Air now appears to be primed for a comeback starting in late 2018.

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Adam Levine-Weinberg owns shares of Alaska Air Group. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.Mariano Rajoy Arahy

Reuters/Susana Vera

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy loses vote of no confidence on Friday after a corruption scandal.

Rajoy was not present for a debate approving such a motion, and was eventually found in a posh Madrid restaurant with a group of advisers.

The motion pass easily, 180 votes to 169, and will see Europe plunged into a second political crisis in a week.

Early on Friday morning, Rajoy admitted defeat, saying it has been an honour to serve Spain.



LONDON  Spain's long-serving prime minister, Mariano Rajoy, lost a no-confidence motion against his government on Friday, and he prepared for the heartbreak in a way that most of us can probably identify with.

He holed up with a handful of close advisers in a posh restaurant and settled in for a long afternoon.

On Thursday, Spain's parliament held a lengthy debate on the approval of a no confidence motion against Rajoy to be held on Friday, but the prime minister himself was nowhere to be found. With Rajoy and his team reportedly not responding to any form of communication, numerous intrepid journalists searched the area around the Palacio de las Cortes, the home of Spain's parliament.

He was eventually found in a restaurant called Arahy, around 15 minutes walk from the palace.

Although timings cannot be confirmed, it is believed that Rajoy and his team were in the restaurant from around 2 p.m. Madrid time until around 10 p.m. when Rajoy emerged from the restaurant to the waiting press. Footage of this can be seen below:

Tweet Embed:

//twitter.com/mims/statuses/1002282334673043456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

M.Rajoy saliendo del restaurante Arahy (Puerta de Alcala) donde ha pasado su ultima tarde como Presidente del Gobierno. #MocionCTXT Video: @WillyVeleta pic.twitter.com/dWIdhp4p1Y

Arahy's menu includes dishes such as baked banana croutons with typical beef stew from Madrid, avocado and jalapeno, and ceviche of sea bass, with lime and avocado.

Story continues

Rajoy's mammoth lunch came as he stared down the end of his nearly seven years as Spain's most senior politician, with Pedro Sanchez, the leader of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) set to take over as prime minister.

On Thursday, Sanchez secured the backing of six parties in the lower house of the Spanish parliament, totaling 180 votes. An absolute majority comes from 176 votes, so Sanchez is clear to take power immediately now the vote has passed.

Prior to Thursday's debate, Sanchez had called on Rajoy to resign, preventing him from becoming the first ever Spanish prime minister to lose a vote of no confidence.

"Are you ready to resign? Resign today and leave by your own will," Sanchez told Rajoy, according to a Reuters report.

"You are part of the past, of a chapter the country is about to close."

Rajoy refused to resign, but on Friday morning prior to the vote did admit defeat, saying it had been an "honour" to serve Spain.

The no confidence vote against Rajoy comes amid a corruption scandal, known as the Gurtel case. The scandal has seen senior members of Rajoy's People's Party (PP) implicated, with a handful being handed long term jail sentences late in May. Spain's former treasurer, and a close ally of Rajoy, Luis Barcenas, was among those jailed, receiving 33 years in prison. Charges levied against those involved in the scandal included bribery, money laundering and tax evasion.

Rajoy's premiership has been a fractured one, with the right-wing leader holding power through three general elections. The PP won a majority in an election in 2011, but lost that majority in 2015 after a deadlocked election. He remained prime minister, eventually overseeing another election in 2016, when he was able to create a government where he acted as prime minister in a minority government.

Rajoy was also in power during the 2017 Catalan crisis, when the region tried and failed to secede from Spain after holding an unsanctioned election. At the time he faced criticism for the police's heavy handed approach to voters, which saw numerous people injured.

His removal from Spain's premiership would likely trigger the second major political crisis in Europe in a week, just as Italy looks to have solved its own. Overnight, Italy's two major populist parties had a deal approved to enter a coalition, after a week in which it looked like the eurozone's third largest economy was headed for a second election in just a few months.

The Five Star Movement and Lega Nord should see the senior officials of its freshly minted government sworn in in Rome on Friday.

NOW WATCH: I ate nothing but 'healthy' fast food for a week  heres what happened

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SEE ALSO: A little-known part of Italy's constitution makes it almost impossible for the country to leave the euro* Spain's political outlook uncertain after Rajoy leaves

* Socialist Sanchez becomes 7th PM since return of Democracy

* Unclear how long government can last in divided parliament

* Sanchez has committed to stable budget, Catalonia talks (Adds Sanchez to be sworn in on Saturday)

By Sonya Dowsett and Julien Toyer

MADRID, June 1 (Reuters) - Spanish socialist Pedro Sanchez was catapulted to power on Friday, taking over as prime minister from veteran conservative Mariano Rajoy, who lost a no-confidence vote in the wake of a corruption scandal.

Lawmakers stood and cheered in parliament as the untested 46-year-old - a pro-European lawmaker who has never been in government - became the country's seventh head of government since its return to democracy in the late 1970s.

Rajoy's departure after six years in office may lead to a spell of political uncertainty in the euro zone's fourth-largest economy, just as the third-largest - Italy - pulls back from early elections.

"I am aware of the responsibility I am assuming, of the complex political moment our country is going through, and I will rise to all the challenges with humility and dedication," Sanchez told reporters.

Sanchez, who became prime minister with only 84 seats for his Socialists in the 350-member assembly thanks to support from the hard-left Podemos and smaller nationalist parties, said he intends to steer the country through to mid-2020 when the parliamentary term ends.

But his majority - the smallest for a Spanish government since the return to democracy following Francisco Franco's death in 1975, makes it unclear how long his administration can last.

His strong pro-European credentials, and the fact that Rajoy also ran a minority government, suggest fallout from any political ructions is likely to be limited.

Spain's stock market rose after the parliamentary vote, to trade nearly 2 percent higher on Thursday's close, while the country's borrowing costs fell, soothed by Sanchez's commitment to respecting a fiscally conservative budget passed by Rajoy.

Story continues

"Sanchez has reiterated a commitment with European orthodoxy and budget control in Spain," UBS analysts said. "We do not anticipate a substantial impact on the pace of growth."

Anti-establishment parties in Rome revived coalition plans on Thursday, ending three months of turmoil by announcing a government that, by contrast, says it will increase spending and challenge European Union fiscal rules.

In Berlin, a government spokesman said Germany hoped for a stable government in Madrid.

PRO-EUROPE

The socialists' unlikely leap into office, unexpected just a few days ago for a party that lags the centre-right Ciudadanos and Rajoy's conservative People's Party (PP) in opinion polls, was precipitated by last week's sentencing of dozens of people linked to the PP to decades in jail in a corruption trial.

Anger with corruption allowed Sanchez to win Friday's no-confidence motion by 180 votes to 169, with one abstention.

But the fragmented parliament means he will find it hard to row back on structural reforms passed by his predecessor, including new labour laws and cuts in healthcare and education.

The anti-austerity Podemos, a product of widespread anger at spending cuts imposed by Rajoy's first government at the height of the euro zone crisis, has promised to support Sanchez in parliament.

But the hard-left party seems unlikely to gain major influence over Sanchez, who is keen to win back centrist voters.

CATALONIA TALKS?

Outgoing premier Rajoy conceded defeat prior to the no-confidence vote, congratulating Sanchez and telling deputies in a short speech: "It has been an honour to have left Spain in a better state than I found it."

The 63-year-old veteran took over the government in 2011 in the middle of a deep recession and presided over a dramatic economic recovery.

However, his position had become increasingly untenable, undermined by scandals encircling his party as well as an independence drive in the wealthy region of Catalonia, which led Madrid to impose direct rule on the region last autumn.

Two Catalan pro-independence parties backed the motion of no-confidence in Rajoy.

Sanchez, who will be sworn in on Saturday, is expected to appoint his cabinet next week, has promised to start talks with the Catalans but has said he will not give the region an independence referendum.

On Friday, Catalan authorities announced their new cabinet, hoping to pave the way for Madrid to end its direct rule.

German prosecutors on Friday made a court application for the extradition to Spain of the leader of Catalonia's independence movement, former regional president Carles Puigdemont, on charges linked to his role in the region's independence drive. (Writing by Ingrid Melander and Sonya Dowsett Editing by John Stonestreet and Hugh Lawson)Epimeria quasimodo.

Every year, scientists discover about 18,000 species previously unknown to humanitya delightful array of strange creatures with bizarre survival tactics.

Since 2008, the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, New York has been compiling a list of the top 10 new species, as determined by an international committee of taxonomists. The list is released annually on May 23, the birthday of Carolus Linnaeus, an 18th-century Swedish botanist considered the father of modern taxonomy.

This years compilation includes the tiny and tall, from deep-sea ocean dwellers to hitchhiking beetles and volcanic bacteria. The new species hail from Brazil, Costa Rica, Indonesia, the Canary Islands, Japan, Australia, China, and the US. Heres the list, in order of minuscule to massive.

Anacorysta twista: The enigmatic protist

Ancoracysta twista

Ancoracysta twista

Found on a brain coral in a tropical aquarium at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego, California, this single-celled protist is one mean mystery. It appears to have no near relatives and doesnt fit neatly in any known group, though it may be a previously unknown early lineage of Eukaryota, a kind of organismboth single- and multi-celledwith genetic material packed in a membrane-bound nucleus.

Ancoracysta twista is a predatory flagellate, which is about as cruel as it sounds. The organism uses a whip-like flagella to propel itself while harpooning its preyother protists. Baffled taxonomists think the unusually large number of genes in this creatures mitochondrial genome shed some light on the early evolution of eukaryotic organisms.

Thiolava veneris: An explosive bacteria

Tagoro, a submarine volcano, erupted off the coast the Canary Islands in 2011, wiping out most of the marine ecosystem. The area has since been colonized by a new species of proteobacteria with filaments that cling to each other and form a massive white mat, extending for nearly half an acre at depths of about 430 feet.

Story continues

Thiolava veneris.

Thiolava veneris.

The new species seems to have unique metabolic characteristics that allow them to survive in this newly formed underwater lava seabed. The proteobacteria are paving the way for new ecosystems to develop. Scientists call the filamentous mat of bacteria Venus hair.

Xuedytes bellus: An adaptable b eetle

Xuedytes bellus.

Xuedytes bellus.

Troglobitic beetles adapt to life in the permanent darkness of caves by losing their beetle shape and wings and growing long legs and bodies, taking on spider and ant traits. They are an example of convergent evolution, when unrelated species evolve similar attributes under pressure from the same selection forces.

This new species of troglobitic ground beetle from China is less than half an inch long, with a dramatically elongated head and body. It was discovered in a cave in Duan, Guangxi Province, an area with many caves and a wide array of beetle species.

Nymphister kronaueri: The beetles guide to hitchhiking

This miniature 1.5-millimeter beetle from Costa Rica is a myrmecophile, or ant-lover. It lives and travels with a single species of nomadic army ants, called Eciton mexicanum. The host ants spend two to three weeks on the move, followed by two to three weeks stationary, and the the beetle goes with them from place to place.

Nymphister kronaueri.

Nymphister kronaueri.

Its body is the same size, shape, and color of the abdomen of a worker ant. The beetle uses its mouth to grab the skinny portion of the host abdomen, hitching a ride as the ants amble. The beetles seem to use chemical signals or other adaptations to avoid becoming ant prey themselves, but how that works in this case is as yet unknown.

Epimeria Quasimodo: A literary amphipod

This 2-inch Antarctic Ocean amphipod with a humped back is named for Victor Hugos character, Quasimodo, in The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Its one of 26 new species of amphipods of the genus Epimeria from the Southern Ocean, known for their incredible spines and vivid colors. Taxonomists say they look like tiny versions of mythical dragons.

Epimeria quasimodo.

Epimeria quasimodo.

The genus is abundant, which has led some scientists to argue that it must have been known. But thats not so, according to the ESF statement.

Using a combination of morphology and DNA evidence  investigators have demonstrated in [a] comprehensive monograph just how little we yet know of these spectacular invertebrates, the taxonomists write.

Pseudoliparis swirei: The deepest fish

In the dark abyss of the Pacific Oceans Mariana Trench, about 27,000 feet down, lives the deepest fish ever discovered. The Mariana snailfish is a tadpole-like 2- to 4-inch creature thats much more successful than it looks; this small, translucent fish appears to be the top predator of her underworld.

Pseudoliparis swirei.

Pseudoliparis swirei.

Human divers cannot go where Mariana snailfish swim, but an international research team did sink cameras and traps deep into this difficult-to-reach and rarely-studied area over three years. The traps took four hours to fall from the oceans surface to where this snailfish swims. When raised, they held healthy, well-fed snailfish, and the camera footage had captured their deep sea activities. Scientists believe that 27,000 feet is a physiological limit for fish, and that below this depth, none can survive.

Sciaphila sugimotoi: Plant prankster

Sciaphila sugimotoi.

Sciaphila sugimotoi.

This 4-inch Japanese plant is a friendly mooch. Unlike most plants, which capture solar energy to feed through photosynthesis, this one lives off of other organisms. Specifically, it nourishes itself from a fungus, to which it doesnt do any harm.

This plant appears in only two locations on Ishigaki Island in September and October, producing small blossoms. Due to its rarity, this new plant species is already considered critically endangered, as it depends on very stable ecosystems and only flourishes in humid evergreen broadleaf forest.

Wakaleo schouteni: Tree-climbing lion

Wakaleo schouteni reconstruction.

Wakaleo schouteni reconstruction.

New research on fossil findings in Australia lead scientists to believe that in the late Oligocene era, about 23 million years ago, a tree-climbing marsupial lion roamed the open forest in Queensland. They believe the lion was about 50 pounds, more or less the size of a Siberian husky dog.

Based on its teeth, the lion was likely an omnivore, eating meat and vegetation alike. It is part of a lineage, the genus Wakaleo, that grew over time, possibly in response to larger prey that evolved as the flora changed and the continent became drier and cooler.

Pongo tapanuliensis: An ape unlike others

An isolated population of great apes in southern Sumatra in Indonesia appears to be a distinct species of orangutan, unlike any other. Genetic evidence suggests that this southern species diverged from other, like great apes about 3.38 million years ago.

Pongo tapanuliensis.

Pongo tapanuliensis.

The finding that this type is unique also makes it the most imperiled great ape in the world. Only an estimated 800 such creatures live in a habitat spread over about 250,000 acres. They are about the same size as other orangutans, with females under 4 feet tall and males under 5 feet tall.

Dinizia jueirana-facao: A tree grows in Brazil

Dinizia jueirana-facao.

Dinizia jueirana-facao.

This 130-foot 62-ton Brazilian tree stands majestically above the canopy of the Atlantic forest, growing woody fruit about 18 inches long.

It exists only within the boundaries of the Reserva Natural Vale in northern Espirito Santo. There are only about 25 such trees living, making it critically endangered. The Atlantic forest is home to more than half of the threatened animal species in Brazil.

All these classifications are a lot of fun to read aboutbut theyre also urgent business, according to ESF president Quentin Wheeler. Because of climate change and human impact on environmental habitats, species extinctions outpace discoveries. We name about 18,000 per year but we think at least 20,000 per year are going extinct, he says. Many of these speciesif we dont find them, name them and describe them nowwill be lost forever.

Read next: The deepest fish in the sea is much more successful than she looks

Sign up for the Quartz Daily Brief, our free daily newsletter with the worlds most important and interesting news.

More stories from Quartz:By Susan Cornwell

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Trade frictions between the United States and Canada are a "family quarrel," President Donald Trump's economic adviser said on Sunday, brushing aside concerns expressed by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as an overreaction.

The Trump administration said on Thursday it was moving ahead with tariffs on aluminum and steel imports from Canada, Mexico and the European Union, ending a two-month exemption and potentially setting the stage for a trade war with some of America's top allies.

Trudeau responded on Thursday by calling the tariffs an affront to the longstanding security partnership between Canada and the United States, and Canada announced retaliatory steps.

Trudeau, in an interview aired on Sunday by NBC's "Meet the Press", said it was "insulting" to hear the U.S. claim that Canadian steel and aluminum posed a national security threat.

Video: Trudeau Fires Back on President Trump's Tariffs

For more news videos visit Yahoo View.

"I think he's overreacting," White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said of Trudeau on the "Fox News Sunday" program.

Kudlow said steel and aluminum tariffs on U.S. allies "may go on for a while" or "they may not," because the matter is subject to negotiation.

Trump has been critical of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with Canada and Mexico, saying it has harmed the United States economically. The three countries are engaged in renegotiation talks.

Trump said on Friday he might prefer to end NAFTA in favor of separate bilateral agreements with the two U.S. neighbors.

Story continues

Trudeau is hosting a June 8-9 summit of Group of Seven leaders, including Trump, in the Quebec region of Charlevoix.

Kudlow said Trump had been responding to "several decades of trade abuses" with the tariffs, but noted that the White House announcement said the United States still would welcome good-faith negotiations.

"And that's why I regard this as more of a family quarrel. This is a trade dispute, if you will. It can be solved if people work together," Kudlow said. "To say that it is an attack on Canada is not right."

In the NBC interview, Trudeau said Canada would be "lodging complaints against these unfair trade practices." Canada said on Thursday it will impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports, and challenge the U.S. tariffs under NAFTA and the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Trudeau said Canada won't be at the table for NAFTA talks if the United States insists on a five-year "sunset" clause, adding that "makes no sense."

"You don't sign a trade deal that automatically expires every five years."

(Reporting by Susan Cornwell; Editing by Will Dunham and Bill Berkrot)trump merkel

REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst

The Trump administration is investigating whether auto imports threaten national security.

President Donald Trump reportedly wants a 25% tariff on vehicles imported into the US.

The German auto industry would be among the biggest losers in that situation.

The Trump administration pointed to national security risks as it slapped steel and aluminum tariffs on the US's closest allies this week. But some analysts see metal-import taxes as more of a bargaining chip on a path to what the president is "ultimately interested in": the German auto industry.

"We believe the far bigger prize for the White House is auto exports, most significantly from Germany," BMI analysts wrote in a recent note to clients.

The Commerce Department last week launched an investigation that could reportedly result in a 25% auto-import tax. Some experts think it would be difficult to use national security grounds to impose that kind of trade restriction on allies.

BMI said Trump could use any retaliatory efforts in a trade standoff with the European Union as a reason to raise tariffs on auto imports. Currently, European Union cars to the US face a 2.5% tax, while US cars to the European Union face a 10% tax.

A Dusseldorf-based magazine reported this week that Trump wants to eliminate all auto imports to the US from Germany. The claim, which cited unnamed US and EU diplomats but doesn't include any direct quotes, is unconfirmed. But the president has repeatedly taken aim at Europe's biggest auto exporter.

Trump aired grievances a in closed-door meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel last month, CNN reports, citing people familiar with the conversation. Merkel reportedly pushed back, noting that if Germany lowered auto tariffs for the US, they would also have to for other countries.

Screen Shot 2018 05 01 at 2.33.59 PM

BMI

The German auto industry makes up one-fifth of total exports, and the US is its second-biggest destination after China, so any move by the Trump administration could have far-reaching consequences.

Story continues

Premium manufacturers in the country would likely "immediately" lose money under a 25% auto tariff, a team of Evercore ISI analysts led by Arndt Ellinghorst wrote in a note to clients last week. They estimate losses in the luxury-vehicle market alone could add up to as much as 4.5 billion on up to 600,000 units, mostly sedans and hatchback variants.

BMW could get hit the hardest, they said, followed by Volkswagen and Daimler. BMW has the highest level of US-sourced vehicles of the three companies, at 35%. Volkswagen, the biggest auto manufacturer in the world, and Daimler have 17% and 26%, respectively.

It would take two to three years for automakers to move "meaningful" production to the US if manufacturing abroad became too expensive, analysts said. And companies with no factories in the US, including Volkswagen-controlled Audi and Porsche, are seen as particularly vulnerable.

Screen Shot 2018 06 01 at 11.10.31 AM

Evercore ISI

"We sympathize with the idea of a level playing field," Ellinghorst said. "However, a 25% import duty (reported potential number) from vehicle imports outside NAFTA would certainly be like taking out the 'bazooka' on a global auto trade war."

Trade tensions are threatening an already hurting auto market in Germany. Diesel-powered vehicles  which make up 39% of the country's car market  fell 20% in the first three months of 2018, according to Reuters. That's after a German court ruled to ban diesel emissions in certain cities.

"Even if tariff barriers were dropped, the German autos market is unlikely to be under threat from an influx of American cars given consumer preferences for smaller more fuel efficient cars in the EU," BMI said.

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SEE ALSO: Trump's tariffs are starting a trade war with Europe, Mexico, and Canada  here's what tariffs are, and how they could affect youuber shooting

David Zalubowski / Associated Press

An Uber driver shot and killed a passenger on the Denver interstate Friday morning.

The Denver Police Department told KUSA-TV that preliminary information indicated a conflict inside the vehicle preceded the shooting, which happened just before 3 a.m.

The passenger was pronounced dead after being taken to the hospital, while the driver was taken to the hospital and released after receiving treatment.

An Uber representative told Business Insider that the company believes the incident occurred during an Uber ride.



An Uber driver shot and killed a passenger on the Denver interstate Friday morning, NBC affiliate KUSA-TV reports.

The department told KUSA-TV that preliminary information indicated a conflict inside the vehicle preceded the shooting, which happened just before 3 a.m.

The Denver Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment

The passenger was pronounced dead after being taken to the hospital, while the driver was taken to the hospital and released after receiving treatment, according to KUSA-TV. The station reports that the driver had worked for Uber for multiple years, and an Uber representative told Business Insider that the company believes the incident occurred during an Uber ride.

We are deeply troubled by the events in Denver today. Our thoughts are with the families of those involved. The drivers access to the app has been removed, and we will continue working closely with police," the representative said.

The Denver Police Department's Twitter account posted a photo of a suspect, 29-year-old Michael Hancock, who was arrested on Friday as part of an investigation into the incident.

Uber forbids drivers and passengers from bringing firearms into vehicles while using the app. On Tuesday, the company introduced a feature within the Uber app that allows passengers to share their vehicle's location and information with law enforcement and emergency responders.

Story continues

The feature came amid concerns about the company's ability to properly screen its drivers, as well as allegations of rape and assault involving Uber drivers.

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SEE ALSO: Uber is rolling out a new safety feature to help you share details of your ride with 911 in case of an emergencySAN PEDRO SULA, HONDURAS, May 29, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Honduran Foundation for Corporate Social Responsibility (FUNDAHRSE) recently held its 12th National CSR Conference 2018 entitled "2030 Sustainable Development Goals, advancing together towards sustainability" in the city of San Pedro Sula, Honduras.

This year the event was held to discuss the global framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), to track progress in Honduras, and to encourage different sectors to achieve these objectives. Attended by non-governmental entities, academic institutions, the business sector and the general public, the conference lasted three days and included a keynote address by Eduardo Sanchez, Director of Institutional Relations ONGAWA, Spain, on the theme of 2030 Agenda for SDGs and the role of the private sector.

Company spokesman, Roger Pineda, commented, Dinant takes its commitments to corporate social responsibility and sustainability very seriously, and we were delighted to attend this event to share practical ideas. For example, Dinant rigorously benchmarks its African Palm business against stringent international standards regarding economic, environmental and social impacts. But we are always looking for ways to improve our operations, and the FUNDAHRSE annual conference is a great place to learn.

Dinant participated in the CSR EXPO, a space where companies present their best practices of Corporate Social Responsibility, enabling the company to showcase how its CSR program is making a positive impact in 9 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Mr. Pineda continued, These are exciting times for Dinant. While Honduras can be a challenging place to do business, Dinant has proven that it is possible to do so successfully, honestly, transparently and sustainably. The key to Dinants success is engaging peacefully and respectfully with local neighboring communities  a model that is being closely watched and now replicated by other companies in Honduras and Central America.

Dinants African Palm oil extraction mills and plantations in the Lean and Aguan regions of Honduras have been awarded two prestigious International Sustainability and Carbon Certifications  ISCC EU and ISCC Plus  in recognition of the sustainability of their raw materials and products, the traceability of the supply chain, and control of greenhouse gas emissions.

About Corporacion Dinant

Dinant is a family-owned consumer products manufacturer founded in Honduras in 1960. Its products are sold across Central America and the Dominican Republic. The company employs 7,200 people worldwide, supports a further 22,000 livelihoods, and contributes significantly to the Honduran economy. For more information, visit www.dinant.com.

This material is distributed by Tricuro LLC on behalf of Corporacion Dinant. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC.

AttachmentCAPITALIZATION

TSX Symbol: STGO

Total Basic Shares O/S (M): 42.9

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MATTHEW WOOD

Chairman, President and CEO

BATAA TUMUR-OCHIR

Director and Vice President Mongolia

ANEEL WARAICH

Director and Executive Vice President

JEREMY SOUTH

Director

PATRICK MICHAELS

Director

DR. ZAMBA BATJARGAL

Director

BOARD APPOINTMENT

TORONTO, May 30, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Steppe Gold Limited (TSX:STGO) (the Company or Steppe Gold) is very pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Lewis Marks to the Companys Board as a Director.

Mr. Marks has lived and worked in Asia for 37 years with a residence and business operations in Mongolia for most of the last 18 years. Mr. Marks currently serves as a Director of CWT Mongolia, importing diesel into Mongolia from Russia; is a shareholder of Bayandari LLC, a Mongolian agriculture company focused on wheat production from approximately 24,000 hectares outside of Ulaanbaatar; and is a Director of Tsast Impex LLC, the second largest construction company in Mongolia.

Mr. Marks also serves as Member of the Board of Directors of the LIM Japan Fund, a role hes had since 2002.

From 1980 to 1993 he was with Marc Rich & Co. AG (purchased by Glencore International AG in 1993) and remained with Glencore International AG from 1993 to 2000, where part of his responsibilities included selling Mongolian copper into China. Prior to that, from 1997 until 1980, he practiced law at Yanagida & Nomura in Tokyo, Japan (formerly Yanagida & Sakuragi).

Mr. Marks earned his Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service at the School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. and his Juris Doctor from the School of Law, State University of New York at Buffalo.

The Company is fortunate to be able to add someone of Mr. Marks' experience and expertise and it is expected that Mr. Marks will be of great assistance in the successful development of the Companys ATO project.

On behalf of the Board

Matthew Wood

Chairman, President and CEO

Steppe Gold Limited

ABOUT STEPPE GOLD

Steppe Gold is a precious metals exploration and development company with an aggressive growth strategy to build Steppe into the premier precious metals company in Mongolia. The Company owns the advanced staged Altan Tsaagan Ovoo (ATO) gold project, where first gold production is targeted for late 2018, and the exciting Uudam Khundii (UK) gold exploration project. Mongolia is open for business, pro mining development and one of the last great frontiers where giant mineral deposits can be found and developed.

CONTACT INFORMATION

THE COMPANYS HEAD OFFICE:

Shangri-La office, Suite 1201,

Olympic street 19A, Sukhbaatar

District 1,

Ulaanbaatar 14241, Mongolia

Tel: +976 7732 1914

TORONTO OFFICE:

90 Adelaide Street. W, Suite 400

Toronto, ON

M5H 3V9,

Canada

Tel: +1 647 697 0577

TRANSFER AGENT:

Lori Winchester

Senior Relationship Manager, Client Management

Phone: +1 416 607-7898

Cell: +1 416 671-4558

Email: lori.winchester@tmx.comPretty much everybody agrees that clean air is a good thing, right? Evidently not so. Since the 1960s, when people started talking about clean air in the first place, the American energy industry, which includes coal companies, oil companies, and utility companies, has dragged its heels on every initiative to improve the quality of the air we breathe. Even after the Clean Air Act of 1970 and its amendments in 1977 and 1990 made it clear that controlling air pollution is a national priority, these companies have found tricks and loopholes to avoid compliance.



Perhaps the most egregious loophole is the one that allows older power plants to disregard limits on sulfur dioxide emissions until they undergo a major renovation, at which point they have to comply. Sulfur dioxide from coal-burning power plants is the primary cause of acid rain in North America. The Clean Air Act states that when coal burning power plants upgrade their equipment, they must then comply with sulfur dioxide limitations by either installing scrubbing equipment that cleans the emissions or using fuel with lower sulfur content. The law tied the timing of compliance to major renovations in order to give power plants a grace period in which to comply. Many power plants, however, have exploited a loophole in this law by instituting a series of minor renovations that, in effect, upgrade their equipment without requiring them to comply with the Clean Air Act. Some plants have cheated the system by undergoing minor renovations for decades.



The power companies claim that they have to resort to these underhanded measures because the cost of compliance with the Clean Air Act is too high. And if everyone else is cheating the system, why should they have to install costly sulfur dioxide scrubbers? This cost argument falls apart upon scrutiny. Since 1977, more than 400 power plants across the country have managed to comply with the restrictions and are still making money. The sulfur dioxide scrubbing equipment has turned out to be far less expensive than the power industry naysayers claimed it would be. Many power plants have even complied with the emissions limits and reduced their operating costs by switching from high-sulfur Appalachian coal to the low-sulfur coal produced in western states such as Wyoming and Idaho. Western coal is not only cleaner than eastern coal, but also, because it is generally closer to the surface, as much as 30 percent less expensive to extract.



Clearly, the costs of compliance with the Clean Air Act can be justified, but if these companies were honest, such justifications would not have to be made. If they were honest, they would acknowledge the costs of not complying: the health costs of increased rates of asthma and lung cancer in high-emissions areas; the environmental costs of acid-scarred forests and lakes; the aesthetic costs of a haze of sulfur dioxide cutting visibility across the eastern United States to only half of what it was in preindustrial times. When you look at the true costs you have to ask, is any cost too high for clean air?





1. According to the information given in the passage, sulfur dioxide emissions are linked to all except which of the following phenomena?



A. Reduced visibility in the eastern United States

B. Damage to the ozone hole

C. Increased rates of asthma

D. Acid rain

E. Damaged forests





2. In the fourth paragraph, the passage mentions the 400 power plants for what purpose?



A. To provide concrete evidence that many power plants have complied with the Clean Air Act provisions without undergoing ruinous financial hardship

B. To demonstrate the size and influence of the energy industry in the United States

C. To demonstrate that only a fraction of the power plants in the country have complied with the Clean Air Act, while hundreds of others have avoided compliance through tricks and loopholes

D. To demonstrate that companies can both comply with the Clean Air Act and achieve reductions in their operating costs by employing new, more efficient technologies

E. To suggest that those companies that have not complied are in the minority





3. Which of the following statements, if true, would provide the strongest argument for a utility company spokesman wishing to refute the arguments expressed in the passage?



A. Over the last decade, the energy industry has funded an environmental initiative that has planted more than 200,000 new trees.

B. The dangers of acid rain to human health have been wildly exaggerated by environmental extremists who seek to scare the general public.

C. The specifications of the Clean Air Act, although well intentioned, in practice require power plants to adopt less efficient technologies that increase emissions of atmospheric pollutants other than sulfur dioxide that have been linked to equally serious problems.

D. A substantial upgrade to a coal-burning power plant that includes the installation of sulfur dioxide scrubbing equipment can cost hundreds of millions of dollars, although companies can often recoup most of these costs over the following years as a result of efficiency benefits from the upgrade.

E. The scientific data upon which the Clean Air Act was based have not been corroborated by the scientists at the Center for Atmospheric Truth, a research group funded by a consortium of energy companies. A. Reduced visibility in the eastern United StatesB. Damage to the ozone holeC. Increased rates of asthmaD. Acid rainE. Damaged forestsA. To provide concrete evidence that many power plants have complied with the Clean Air Act provisions without undergoing ruinous financial hardshipB. To demonstrate the size and influence of the energy industry in the United StatesC. To demonstrate that only a fraction of the power plants in the country have complied with the Clean Air Act, while hundreds of others have avoided compliance through tricks and loopholesD. To demonstrate that companies can both comply with the Clean Air Act and achieve reductions in their operating costs by employing new, more efficient technologiesE. To suggest that those companies that have not complied are in the minorityA. Over the last decade, the energy industry has funded an environmental initiative that has planted more than 200,000 new trees.B. The dangers of acid rain to human health have been wildly exaggerated by environmental extremists who seek to scare the general public.C. The specifications of the Clean Air Act, although well intentioned, in practice require power plants to adopt less efficient technologies that increase emissions of atmospheric pollutants other than sulfur dioxide that have been linked to equally serious problems.D. A substantial upgrade to a coal-burning power plant that includes the installation of sulfur dioxide scrubbing equipment can cost hundreds of millions of dollars, although companies can often recoup most of these costs over the following years as a result of efficiency benefits from the upgrade.E. The scientific data upon which the Clean Air Act was based have not been corroborated by the scientists at the Center for Atmospheric Truth, a research group funded by a consortium of energy companies.sushiboy wrote:

Hi,



I gave the GMAT recently and got a 710 though my goal was 750. I know the application process is holistic so I want to get my profile evaluated to have a better idea on whether I should retake the GMAT and what are my chances of getting in my preferred schools



Background: Indian , Age 26



Academics:

710 GMAT (91 percentile)

Bachelors: Electronics (BITS Pilani, GPA 8.0/10)

Masters: Electronics (IIT Bombay GPA 9.6/10)





Work:

Working in Japan as Senior Associate in R&D of a major Japanese healthcare company for 2 years.

Fastest Promotion among peers - in 1 year.

Proficient in Japanese communication and good experience of Japanese culture





Extracurriculars:

Award from President of India - Scientific Innovation

Bronze Certificate- International Art Exhibition in China

GE Startup Venture Competition finalists

Inter-university quiz champion

Gave free art classes to HIV-AIDS slum children in Mumbai



Preferred Universities

1.HBS

2.Stanford GSB

3.Wharton

4.MIT Sloan

5 Berkeley-Haas



Please advise on

a) whether I should retake the GMAT and

b) what are my chances of getting into my preferred schools

Thanks in advance for your help.



mbaMission Senior Admissions Consultant

Chicago Booth Alum, 60 5-star reviews on GMAT Club

Sign up for a free 30-minute consultation at https://www.mbamission.com/consult/mba-admissions/

Read our Insider's Guides to the top b-schools: http://www.mbamission.com/guides.php?category=insiders



Kate RichardsonmbaMission Senior Admissions ConsultantChicago Booth Alum, 60 5-star reviews on GMAT ClubSign up for a free 30-minute consultation at https://www.mbamission.com/consult/mba-admissions/Read our Insider's Guides to the top b-schools: http://www.mbamission.com/guides.php?category=insiders Signature Read More

Hi sushiboy (I like your handle!) --To cut to the chase, yes, I would retake. You have a good score but if you want to look at those super competitive schools on your list, you need an awesome score. Especially for your demographic, I'd like to see 730 or higher. Schools don't mind if you retake at all, and if you were scoring higher than 710 on practice exams, it should hopefully not be a huge task to get your score up. It would be ideal if you could still apply in Round 1.Now you do have some really interesting things in your profile, especially your work in Japan, fast promotion, and experience in a less common pre-MBA sector (compared to tech or consulting, for example). Your GPAs are strong too, as are your extracurriculars (assuming you are keeping some of those activities currently?).All of the schools on your list are very competitive, so even with a higher score, I would still make sure you have a backup plan (safer schools in R2, continuing to work and re-applying later, etc.). Harvard / Stanford are of course the biggest reaches, so give them a shot but set your expectations appropriately.Good luck, and let us know if you have other questions!Kate_________________As of August 26th, 2021 Yahoo India will no longer be publishing content. Your Yahoo Account Mail and Search experiences will not be affected in any way and will operate as usual. We thank you for your support and readership. For more information on Yahoo India, please visit the FAQ: Eight steps Texas can take to fix its managed-care mess

Years of poor state oversight have allowed companies to skimp on essential care for sick kids and disabled adults

Day after day, Heather Powell lay in bed, in pain, in her small San Antonio apartment. For two years she languished there, staring at the ceiling, watching cop dramas on Netflix, surfing the Internet with a computer mouse tucked under her chin. She had been almost completely paralyzed from the neck down in a shooting more than a decade earlier. These days she found some joy in the only human relationships she had left, with the helpers who washed her body and cooked her food and laughed at her jokes. A state program was supposed to give Powell, now 38, enough help so she could live at home, rather than in a nursing home. But the hydraulic lift that moved her to the shower or a wheelchair broke, trapping her in bed. There was no sign of the special mattress her doctors had prescribed to relieve pain and prevent the sores that can kill immobilized people. No sign of the gadget that would allow her to turn on the lights or adjust the thermostat with her voice  even after a nurse hired by the state wrote a scathing report about Powells suffering. Last spring came the cruelest cut. Superior HealthPlan, the company Texas paid to manage her care, said it was cutting the hours of the aides who helped her get through each day. Rather than spending 12 hours a day with her, they would be around for just seven. Previously: The preventable tragedy of Dashon Morris When a giant health care company wanted to save money, a foster baby paid the price. Catch up. Alone for 17 hours a day. Unable to move. In pain. Powell began to plan her suicide. Texas is supposed to provide a reasonable quality of life to poor, sick people like Powell, who need long-term care that was once available only in nursing homes. The state used to pay for that care directly, writing checks to doctors and home-care agencies. When Texas turned over many of its health programs to private companies to manage, they promised to save taxpayers millions while delivering better health care to more than 4 million Texans, including about 720,000 medically fragile children and adults. But years of inept state regulation have allowed corporations to profit as they skimp on care for sick kids and disabled adults in the program known as Medicaid managed care. And Texas health officials have hidden the full extent of the problems from the public. The Dallas Morning News has identified hundreds of cases in which essential medical care was delayed, denied or not delivered to people with critical health needs. We reviewed thousands of pages of documents, including patient medical files, corporate financial records and state records gathered through 160 public-information requests. We analyzed state data and talked to hundreds of people: patients, policy experts and medical professionals. Heres what we found: At least 8,000 Texans like Powell  disabled people trying to stay out of nursing homes  have major unmet medical needs. The state hasnt even studied the care of other disabled adults or ailing children.

STAR+PLUS A managed care program for people who have disabilities or are age 65 or older. Many of these patients need nursing-facility-level care in their homes such as hospital beds and breathing machines. Complaints are growing from patients and their families who say the private health care companies are refusing critical services. Since 2014, appeals of such decisions have risen 26 percent in the program for the elderly and disabled and 31 percent in the program for foster children.

and 31 percent in the program for foster children. The companies providing care get to decide what treatments are medically necessary, and the state often fails to challenge or even review policy changes that can deny care to thousands of patients. In 2016, state regulators found one such change by Superior HealthPlan was illegal  but only after a baby named Dashon Morris suffered catastrophic brain damage.

Medically vulnerable patients struggle to find doctors as the health care companies vastly overstate how many doctors are in their networks. As we will detail in part 3, the companies havent hired nearly enough care coordinators to connect people with treatment, and those they do hire are overwhelmed by too many cases.

When somebody gets hurt, the state rarely does anything about it, as we will show in part 4. From 2013 to 2016, the state fined the companies just $12.4 million, or two-hundredths of a cent for every one dollar Texas paid them in those years. The managed-care industry asserts that it saves Texas about a billion dollars a year while improving the health of children, reducing asthma cases and short-term complications from diabetes. Disabled adults, the industry says, also benefit, showing lower rates of certain infections and pneumonia.

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The Texas health commission did not provide us with independent analysis to confirm those savings and said it could not arrange an interview with state executives. Health Commissioner Charles Smith announced his retirement last month. Weeks earlier, The News requested an interview and his staff was working to provide answers to our questions. Our most important mission is making sure people get the services they need, commission spokeswoman Carrie Williams ultimately said in a lengthy statement. All of these challenges have our ongoing attention and need to be strengthened in order for us to have a successful program, she added. Whatever benefits managed care may have for healthy kids, our investigation shows its not working for sick people. Thats because the system provides perverse incentives for health care companies. Term: Medically necessary care Companies decide which drugs, services and exams must be provided for people to either get better or maintain their level of health. Using criteria they set, and broad guidelines set by the state, companies often deny claims for services they decide are not needed. Theres some wiggle room when it comes to adults, but in Texas, children are legally entitled to all necessary care. The only way to make money is to deny medically necessary care, says Peter Hofer, a senior litigator for Disability Rights Texas, which represents Medicaid patients and foster children. Its a bad model. Hofer was involved in landmark litigation that created many of the state rules that companies are supposed to follow. The Texas Legislature embraced managed care two decades ago as a way to curb soaring Medicaid costs. Like HMOs  health maintenance organizations  in the private sector, Medicaid managed-care companies promised to negotiate low rates for doctors and hospitals, slash spending on unnecessary services and do a better job of weeding out fraud. Term: Coordinated care The central promise of managed care is that health plans offer staff who connect patients with doctors and specialists to create an individualized plan of care. This is supposed to reduce spending on unnecessary services and provide better preventive care. But a state study published last year found big gaps. In the disabled program, for example, managed-care companies offered more than half of patients only the very lowest level of help: two phone calls a year. And a state study found that four out of five managed-care companies didnt even meet this low goal. It recommended reducing caseloads to make sure these patients  almost 300,000 Texans  got help. The companies also pledged to improve health outcomes through coordinated care that would ensure patients got treatment and access to preventive checkups and vaccinations. In return for all of this, Texas promised the companies a modest profit. More sick people, more money In the early years of managed care, Texans with complex medical needs represented a small fraction of companies revenues. Today, those sick people account for more than half of the revenue, with $11.7 billion last year alone. Fragile Healthy SOURCE: News analysis of state financial data Andrew Chavez / DMN Fragile Texans are more profitable When lawmakers pushed medically fragile children into managed care, it was a boon for for-profit health care companies. Dollar for dollar, a vulnerable patient is more profitable than a healthy patient. SOURCE: News analysis of state financial data Andrew Chavez / DMN The first managed-care programs focused on relatively healthy patients, mainly poor children. But the elderly and disabled, who make up less than a quarter of the people in the program, account for more than half of Medicaid spending in Texas. Texas soon became a national leader in the effort to put more vulnerable people into managed care. In 2008, it chose Superior as the only health plan available to foster children. Over time, the state rolled the elderly and disabled into managed care, too. And last year, lawmakers ignored warning signs as they expanded the program to cover children who qualify for Social Security disability benefits or depend on machines for eating and breathing. Today, Texas and the federal government pay about $11.7 billion a year for the programs that care for the states sickest citizens. Nine out of 10 of those patients rely on five giant corporations: Superior, Amerigroup, Cigna, Molina and United Healthcare. Texans with complex medical needs are now the most profitable, on a per-person basis, for the companies in Medicaid managed care, financial data shows. The companies told state regulators last year that they netted $147 million on fragile patients alone. Few  but damning  studies Managed care comes with inherent tension: Doctors and the companies argue over what care is necessary, with patients caught in the middle. So how often do the companies refuse to pay for treatment or services that doctors say are necessary? The state health commission said it has no idea. While the companies do report some information, it is dotted across thousands of spreadsheets. And auditors have repeatedly warned that companies often supply unreliable and misleading data. Texas pays health care companies a higher monthly fee to provide at-home care for people like Powell, who would otherwise be confined to nursing homes. In 2013, lawmakers became alarmed at how fast this program was growing and raised concerns that the managed-care companies were needlessly putting people into it just to make more money. The Legislature ordered a study. So in 2015, nurses traveled the state to check on a small sample of people in the program. The News obtained records created during that study and discovered that the nurses found problems in more than a third of the 272 cases they reviewed. Term: Skilled nursing While family members can provide a lot of help at home, some patients need help that a trained nurse should provide. Examples include assistance with some medicines and suctioning out airways for people with tracheostomy tubes. Many patients needed but didnt get skilled nursing  a benefit for which the state pays extra. Some patients waited hundreds of days for basic supplies like adult diapers and wipes. One woman spent half a year trying to get a walker despite her history of falls. The nurses flagged George Berry, a 55-year-old diabetic man who has lost most of his eyesight and needed a nurses help to make sure he took the right amount of insulin. Citing privacy concerns, an Amerigroup spokeswoman wouldnt comment on that case, but said the company hired extra people to make sure its clients are getting what they need. Amerigroup worked quickly and collaboratively with the state heath commission to address problems identified by the nurses, said Olga Gallardo of Anthem, the health care giant that owns Amerigroup. But three years later, Berry told The News he still hasnt received home nursing and has ended up in the emergency room several times because he took too much insulin. I havent seen a nurse in so long, I dont know what they smell like, he says. The companys profit margin from this program, 6 percent over the last four years according to our analysis of state data, far exceeds what other companies have pocketed. It netted almost $400 million, more than all the other health care companies combined. Last year, the nurses went out again, checking this time on 358 disabled patients. Again, The News got the underlying records. One in 5 of the patients had unmet needs so severe that nurses recommended health regulators immediately intervene. Almost 20 people were at risk of serious injury because they werent getting the services they needed, including some with dementia who had no help.

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Some patients hadnt seen a nurse in years, or had ill-fitting or painful dentures, cavities and rotting teeth. In some cases, the companies had rejected valid claims. In others, they hadnt followed through on the needs they knew existed. When the nurses embarked on the 2017 study, they carefully chose the patients they visited, using the same techniques as social scientists to make sure their sample was representative. That method, combined with some basic statistics, would allow them to estimate how many disabled patients might be at risk. They never published that estimate; the state instead downplayed the significance of the problems in a vague report to lawmakers. Complaints about denied care have risen among fragile patients Over the past decade, complaints about vulnerable patients in Texas being denied care have nearly tripled. These patients have complained at five times the rate of healthy people, whose care is far less expensive. Fragile Healthy SOURCE: News analysis of health commission complaints database Andrew Chavez / DMN So we did the estimate for them. Using the most conservative assumptions, we found that at least 8,000 patients  and as many as 14,000  in that program may be going without the services they need. Thats out of about 50,000 total. There is no similar data for medically fragile children, foster kids or disabled Texans who arent in the program for keeping patients out of nursing homes. But a report released in April by outside researchers, based on 22,000 patient records, also found serious problems. For example, at two companies, at least two-thirds of the patients who needed personal assistance at home werent getting it. Managed-care companies in Texas have the power to write their own policies about what is medically necessary care. Those rules arent supposed to be stingier than federal and state standards. Children are entitled to receive individual assessments of their needs  and to have all those needs met. But Superior has used its policy-writing power to deny care, regardless of what each child might need, according to state records and dozens of interviews with advocates, disability lawyers and parents across the state. Jane Hardey, a crisis communications expert hired by Superior, said the company follows state parameters on issues like medical necessity, home nursing and reauthorizing treatment. She called accusations that the company is denying care to save money categorically false. In 2014, Superior decided that only specialists, not family doctors, could test children for allergies, according to state emails and legal filings. Within months, state regulators were dealing with a crisis: Children in rural areas couldnt get allergy treatment. The company had no specialists in 63 counties, court records show, forcing patients to travel hundreds of miles to find a doctor. Superiors strategy is to deny as many claims as possible, regardless of the service or provider, says Casey Low, an Austin lawyer who represents family doctors suing Superior over that policy change. If they can cover more people, but pay less out in services, they make more money. Similarly, the company changed its rules in 2016 to require one nurse to care for two very sick patients, a move that effectively cut its costs in half. The state later determined that policy was illegal, according to records obtained by The News, but not until more than a dozen foster children across the state were put in danger. Doctors, home therapists and disabled people have complained to state health officials and the Legislature for years that Superior was creating unnecessary roadblocks designed to deny care and save money. Critics cite onerous paperwork for doctors and multiple layers of screenings and approvals before the company will allow treatments. I believe that this particular managed-care organization is putting childrens lives in danger to make a profit, says Dr. Ruchi Kaushik, a pediatric specialist in San Antonio who treats medically fragile children. We shouldnt put childrens lives at risk, just so someone can make some money. For patients of managed-care companies in general, the problems are getting worse, data shows. Formal complaints that managed-care companies are refusing needed treatment have jumped as lawmakers have moved more and more people into their care, according to state data. The trend is especially pronounced in the programs for foster children and the disabled, where the rate of these complaints has almost tripled since 2008. Filing a formal appeal is even more complicated than making a complaint. But appeals have jumped 27 percent in the programs for foster children, the elderly and disabled since 2014. When the bottom line hurts, appeals rise The program for the elderly and disabled is a volatile business because patients need expensive long-term services, which hurt companies bottom lines. Over the last four years, the companies that struggled to make big profits accounted for the most appeals by members who were denied care. SOURCE: News analysis of state financial data and quarterly performance reports Andrew Chavez / DMN

Heather Powell gets a hug from her counselor, Russell Gainer, after a weekly session at home. Powell also has a physical therapist who visits her regularly. After Superior HealthPlan cut her personal attendants hours, she started planning to kill herself by overdosing on her blood-pressure medication.

I would rather not be alive A year ago, Heather Powell got a visit from a registered nurse hired by the state, investigating a complaint about her care. Sara Goodman found that Superior had been collecting thousands of dollars a month to provide Powell everything she needed to live at home  including $5,000 for the lift, a special mattress and voice-activated controls. But she didnt get the equipment. She has not been out of the bed for more than one year except for transfer by ambulance to medical appointments, the nurse wrote in her report. She is a young, intelligent person who wants to live in her home and participate in the community, the goal of the Medicaid program she was in, Goodman added in an internal memo obtained by The News. Superior has failed to address this members needs, wrote Goodman, who did not respond to a request for comment. The same year it was skimping on care for Powell and countless others, Superior lost $5.7 million through its contract to provide long-term care for disabled people  its first loss after three years of profitability. That summer, the state pressed Superior to supply the things Powell needed, a commission spokeswoman said. But the company provided only a thin gel mattress topper, a much cheaper option that caused her pain. This is a complex case, said Williams, the Health and Human Services spokeswoman. Our staff worked hard behind the scenes on a number of very specific items to help improve her care and quality of life. Soon after, Superior cut her personal attendants hours. If I were to lose these hours, Powell remembers thinking, I would rather not be alive. She began planning to kill herself by overdosing on her blood-pressure medicine, she says. But the more she thought about Superiors reductions, the angrier she got at the company. Rather than give up, she called a disability lawyer and asked for help fighting Superior. By February, Powell had developed ulcers on her lower back. Heather Powell of San Antonio, almost completely paralyzed from the neck down, received a visit recently from care team assistant Corinna Cerda. Thats when The News asked the health commission questions about Powells case. Within a few weeks, Superior set up her special mattress, which constantly shifts and redistributes her weight to prevent ulcers. Her pain quickly became less severe, she says, and she needed fewer drugs to get through the day. The company also restored the number of hours that personal attendants would be around to help her take her medicine and clean her wounds and place an electric blanket on her when her temperature drops. Shes relieved, but she says she spends a lot of time worrying for others who might be suffering. Can you imagine, she asks, how many people they probably do that to? Follow J. David McSwane, Andrew Chavez and Tom Fox on Twitter. Up next Texas pays companies billions for sham networks of doctors The state tells foster parents that hundreds of psychiatrists will see their kids. We found only 34. Managed-care companies overstate the number of physicians available to treat the states sickest patients. Keep reading.

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INU  The US withdrawal from Iran nuclear deal has been well received in many capitals. The signatories of the Iran nuclear deal do not live in the region, so the positive reception to the US withdrawal by countries in the Middle East is not surprising. Their perception of Tehran is that it is most immediate security threat to the stability of the region.

The consensus in the region if that the regime should under no circumstances possess or acquire material required for the production of nuclear weapons. Countries in the Middle East very concerned over the prospect of the regime building a nuclear arsenal.

The regimes destabilizing behavior affects global order more at this time than at any other point since 1979, especially regarding rights of navigation and ballistic missile proliferation.

Tehran now threatens the rights of navigation in Bab Al Mandeb and Hormuz. Not only do the nations of the GCC use these channels, but the rest of the worlds commercial fleets do as well. US-led coalition ships have been targeted in Yemen. Bab Al Mandeb links the Mediterranean and The Red Sea to The Arabian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal, and the Malacca Straits transit which stretches to Indonesia, Australia, Asia and the Western Pacific.

Another concern is Irans ballistic missile program. In fact, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was never targeted by ballistic missiles from Yemen before Iran became involved in the country. It has been proven that missiles used by Houthis were smuggled as disassembled parts into Yemen, where operatives of the IRGC then reassembled and fired them into The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The way forward, should Tehran continue with its current behavior in Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq should predicate any trade or commercial activities by multinational corporations with the regime, on an end to missiles proliferation, and Irans behavior in Iraq, the in Damascus, and the in Lebanon.

Casual indifference to Irans behavior will not last. There must be immediate suspension of all nuclear related activities, which must be verified by inspection teams, and a complete cessation of all ballistic missile proliferation. As well, the removal of all sectarian and proxy assets from Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, the severing of all ties to terrorist groups is necessary.

The people of Iran continue protesting against the clerical regime, and deserve to live as free people.The intelligence document read, Iran continued to undertake, as did Pakistan and Syria, efforts to obtain goods and know-how to be used for the development of weapons of mass destruction and to optimize corresponding missile delivery systems, as reported by FoxNews.com.

The State Office for the Protection of the Constitution monitors threats to Germanys democratic, and constitutional order. It is the equivalent of Americas FBI, and operates at the state level. Its officials wrote that Irans illicit activities in Germany are concentrated in the classic sectors for espionage: politics, the economy, science, the military and the armaments industry. Each of Germanys 16 states has a domestic intelligence agency.

The report said, The observation and combating of proliferation efforts of  Iran was also an important task of counterintelligence in 2017 in Baden-Wurttemberg.

According to FoxNews.com, in February, Iranian businessmen purchased material from the Krempel firm in Baden-Wurttemberg that later turned up in chemical rockets used to gas Syrian civilians in January and February.

Germanys Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control declined to halt trade between Krempel and the Islamic Republic, even after the revelation of German construction material in the Iranian-produced chemical rockets.

According to the Baden-Wurttemberg intelligence officials, they had gathered intensive intelligence on activities of Irans spy agencies.

Released May 24th, the 345-page report documents Irans sponsorship of Hezbollah, and identifies Tehrans Ministry of Intelligence of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and Revolutionary Guards Intelligence as espionage agencies and state agencies of repression.

On May 8th, President Trump recently exited the Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). He claimed that the agreement did not advance American security interests. Trump said that not only does the deal fail to halt Irans nuclear ambitions, but it also fails to address the regimes development of ballistic missiles that could deliver nuclear warheads, adding that finally, the deal does nothing to constrain Irans destabilizing activities, including its support for terrorism.

German intelligence officials, who wrote the report prior to Trumps May 8th decision, said Tehrans current worsening relations with the U.S.A., as well as Western governments critical views toward Irans atomic program, may lead to an increase of Iranian espionage activities.

Additionally, the report noted that Iran continues to spy on Iranian dissidents in Germany who oppose the clerical leadership in Tehran.

The report also says, Iran has continued unchanged the pursuit of its ambitious program to acquire technology for its rocket and missile delivery program.Astronomers have been closely watching an object that travels in an orbit around our sun.

Astronomers say this object -- an asteroid -- circles the sun in the same orbital path as the planet Jupiter, but moves in the opposite direction.

They say the asteroid came from somewhere else in the universe. And now some experts believe it could be be the oldest object in our solar system.

In late May, researchers reported on a close examination of the asteroid and its orbit. They said that evidence suggests the asteroid formed elsewhere and was captured by gravitational forces when our solar system was formed.

Their report was published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society: Letters.

The researchers believe the sun, planets and other objects in our solar system formed from a swirling cloud of gas and dust. They say this took place about 4.5 billion years ago.

Fathi Namouni is an astronomer with the Observatoire de la Cote dAzur in France. He was the lead writer of the report on the asteroid.

Namouni told the Reuters news service that the asteroid is a strong candidate for the oldest object in the solar system.

The asteroid has a long, somewhat complex name. It is called (514107) 2015 BZ509, or BZ for short. It is nearly 3 kilometers wide. Scientists say they are unsure about the materials it is made of.

BZ travels in the opposite direction of all the planets and nearly everything else in our solar system. This kind of movement is called a retrograde orbit.

"How the asteroid came to move in this way, while sharing Jupiter's orbit, has until now been a mystery," Namouni explained. "If 2015 BZ509 were a native of our system, it should have had the same original direction as all of the other planets and asteroids."

BZ is not the first object that scientists recognize as having travelled from a different star system into our own. The first-known alien traveler was a large object called Oumuamua. Researchers observed it passing through our solar system last year.

But Namouni said BZ and Oumuamua are very different. Oumuamua simply passed through our solar system, while BZ has been orbiting the sun for a long time.

Scientists have observed BZ with ground-based telescopes in the American states of Hawaii and Arizona. They said BZ apparently left its home star system when the star system interacted with other systems in a tight fitting star cluster.

The solar system formed in a star cluster where each star has its own planets and asteroids. The close proximity of the star systems, assisted by their gravitational interactions, helped remove and capture asteroids, Namouni said.

Helena Morais helped with the new research.

Morais is an astronomer at the Universidade Estadual Paulista in Brazil. She said the movement of BZ is similar to that of the planet Jupiter.

They complete an orbit around the sun in the same amount of time while moving in opposite directions, she said.

BZ may be important in discussions about the development of life on Earth.

This discovery tells us that the solar system is likely to be home to more extra-solar asteroids and comets captured early in its history. Some of these objects may have collided with the Earth in the past possibly carrying water, biomolecules or even organic material, Morais added.

The researchers said a number of other solar system objects with retrograde orbits are being investigated as possible alien asteroids.

Im Pete Musto.

Will Dunham first reported this story for the Reuters news service. Pete Musto adapted it for VOA Learning English using additional materials from the Royal Astronomical Society. George Grow was the editor.

We want to hear from you. What do you think scientists will learn from objects that travel to our solar system from elsewhere? Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

_____________________________________________________________ QUIZ Quiz - Alien Asteroid Could Be Oldest Object in Our Solar System Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz 

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Words in This Story

asteroid  n. any one of thousands of small planets that circle around the sun

solar system  n. a star other than our sun and the planets that move around it

swirl(ing)  v. to move in circles or to cause something to move in circles

alien  adj. from somewhere other than the planet Earth

interact(ed)  v. to come together and have an effect on each other

fit(ting)  v. to be the right size and shape for someone or something

cluster  n. a group of things or people that are close together

proximity  n. the state of being near

comet(s)  n. an object in outer space that develops a long, bright tail when it passes near the sun

collide(d)  v. to hit something or each other with strong forceThe United States government is trying to help private companies in their efforts to use space for business purposes.

Last week, President Donald Trump signed a space policy directive aimed at easing rules on commercial use of space.

Trump signed the directive just days after Space X launched another rocket carrying satellites into Earth orbit.

The launch and several others planned for June are examples of private industries' growing interest in space for commercial and scientific research.

Will Marshall is chief executive officer of Planet, a leading provider of geospatial information. He told VOA business leaders interest in space is starting to come back and do some really interesting things."

Planet has put up about 200 satellites in orbit around the Earth. They make images of its complete land mass each day.

Marshall said that before his company, satellite imagery was only taken every year or several years. He told VOA that many industries can use the now orderly, regular images from space.

"You can use that data to improve crop yields so farmers can use it to decide when to add fertilizer, or when to add water because we can tell crop yield from orbitOr it could be used by governments for a wide range of things from border security to disaster response."

Satellites also orbit our planet for purposes of national security.

Steve Isakowitz is president and chief executive officer of the Aerospace Corporation, a company that works with the U.S. Air Force and intelligence community. He said, "We just launched a few months ago a satellite that was just like this, but also had laser communication. We were able to send at 200 megabits per second high data rates down to the ground and the ability for satellites to actually talk to each other. The same satellites that are put up to look at the Earth could be looking around the neighborhood and doing neighborhood watch fornational security and space situational awareness."

Also orbiting the Earth is the International Space Station (ISS), a place of great interest to some major companies and research centers. The ISS National Laboratory and astronauts inside perform experiments that would not be possible on Earth.

The lack of gravity affects the experiments, noted Jennifer Lopez of the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space, which directs the ISS National Laboratory.Also, the space station orbits the Earth 16 times a day, experiencing extreme temperatures and radiation, providing a one-of-a-kind environment for experiments.Some experiments may help life on Earth; however, the findings can also help with future human exploration into deep space.

"There is so much opportunity right now in space; Mars is one of those opportunities," said Chad Anderson, chief executive officer of Space Angels, which invests in the space industry.

While NASA, the U.S. space agency, works on sending humans to the moon and Mars, the space near Earth will become busier as businesses explore this final frontier.

I'm Susan Shand.

Elizabeth Lee wrote this story for VOANews.com. Susan Shand adapted her story for Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

commercial  adj. related to the buying and selling of services or goods

executive  adj. related to the directing of people or things

geospatial  adj. the part of space near the earth

regular  adj. happening over and over again at the same time or in the same way

data  n. information that is collected for understanding something.

yield  n. the amount of product or crop that is produced

megabits  n. one million bits

opportunity  n. a good chance for improvement or progress

frontier  n. a distant area where few people liveEditors Note: This story is part of a continuing series about international student life at colleges and universities across the United States. Please join us over the next several weeks as we bring you stories about international students and the American higher education system as a whole.

Life was not easy when Emma Seguy first arrived in Mesa, Arizona.

The 20-year-old was born in Paris, France. But when she was 16, she decided she wanted to be more independent and to try something new.

So, Seguy asked her parents if she could complete her final year of high school in the United States. At first, they resisted the idea. She had never been that far from them before. But, in the end, she says, they saw how important it was to her and agreed to let her go.

"It was hard for my parents; I mean, seeing their 16 year-old leave the country. But I think my parents are very proud of me for being here."

In 2014, Seguy applied to study at an American high school through the French group, International Student Programs Agency, and the American organization, Educatius. These two international education exchange programs placed her at Dobson High School in Mesa, Arizona.

Right away, Seguy noticed major differences between life in Mesa and life in Paris. For example, she says people in Arizona are far less likely than Parisians to judge people based on their appearance.

But Seguy also experienced some major difficulties. Her English language skills were not as strong as she had hoped, and she missed her family much more than she thought she would.

She spent many nights crying and reading an English dictionary.

But luckily for Seguy, her exchange programs had also connected her with an American host family. These total strangers opened their home to Seguy while she completed her high school education. They also provided her with emotional support and did their best to help her succeed in her studies.

Seguy and her host family grew very close. She says they became like a second family to her. She also made some American friends in her French class at Dobson by helping them learn her native language.

Seguy says her ties to her new family and school friends became so strong that she decided not return home after graduation. Instead she chose stay in her newfound community while seeking higher education at Mesa Community College in 2015.

"It was supposed to be only for 10 months. And I ended up staying with them for three years, and they are still a big part of my life."

Mesa Community College is a public school established in 1963. It serves about 20,400 full and part-time students. Most seek two-year associates degrees.

Community colleges are lower cost than other schools. And cost was a major issue Fabrice Hampoh faced when he first considered international study. The 23-year-old is from the town of Bonoua in the Ivory Coast, and his family does not have much money.

Hampoh began his higher education at the Universite de Cocody, where he sought a bachelors degree in sociology in 2014. But he says he had always dreamed of studying in the United States, although he lacked the finances to do so.

Then, during a visit to the U.S. embassy in his home country, Hampoh learned of a special U.S. State Department program. The program is called the Community College Initiative, or CCI.

The CCI connects international students with community colleges around the U.S. It places students at one of these schools and lets them study there for free for up to a year. It also gives the students a little extra money to cover their travel and living costs. So in 2017, Hampoh applied to the CCI program, got accepted and was sent to Mesa.

At first, Hampohs mother was worried about him being on his own. She did not want him to go. But he was able to persuade her that the program would offer him experiences he could not have otherwise. And, he argued, like Emma Seguy, he would have a support system waiting for him upon arrival.

The CCI program connects international students with host families. And Hampoh quickly grew close to his. They treated him like he was their real son, he says. And, they taught him how to survive in a foreign country.

The CCI program requires students to complete 100 hours of volunteer service during their stay. Hampohs host family immediately asked him to join in their own volunteer projects. One is a program that helps disadvantaged young Americans go to college. The other sends solar panel technology to Afghanistan.

Hampoh says his host father also taught him many important life lessons.

"When I came hereI didnt know how to swim and he is actually the one who taught me from scratch how to swim. Now Im like a fish."

The young Ivorian says he will never forget these lessons, even after he returns home to complete his studies.

Emma Seguy completed her associates degree program at Mesa last year. But after graduating, she decided she loved her second home so much that she wanted stay even longer. So she applied to a special program called Optional Practical Training, or OPT. Under OPT, international students with an F-1 visa can work in the U.S. for up to one year in a field related to their studies.

Seguy says she has loved teaching since she was young, helping her little sister with her studies. She was especially interested in helping students with disabilities, as she has a disabled aunt. So, working in special education at Roosevelt Elementary School in Mesa was a natural choice for her, under the OPT program.

It is very common for community college graduates in the U.S. to continue their educations at four-year colleges and universities. Seguy plans to seek a bachelors degree at Arizona State University in the fall. After that she plans on returning to France.

But, like Fabrice Hampoh, she says the family that chose to host her, and made her feel so welcome, will never be far from her heart.

Im Dorothy Gundy. And Im Pete Musto

Pete Musto reported this story for VOA Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor. We want to hear from you. How common is it for families to act as hosts for foreigners and international students in your country? How long do you think it takes for strangers to build strong connections? Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

_____________________________________________________________

QUIZ

Quiz - Forming a Second Family at Mesa Community College Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

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Words in This Story

proud  adj. very happy and pleased because of something you have done, something you own, or someone you know or are related to

applied  v. asked formally for something, such as a job, admission to a school or a loan, usually in writing

graduation  n. the act of receiving a diploma or degree from a school, college, or university

associates degree(s)  n. a degree that is given to a student who has completed two years of study at a junior college, college, or university in the U.S.

bachelors degree  n. a degree that is given to a student by a college or university usually after four years of study

finances  n. money available to a government, business, or person

disadvantaged  adj. lacking the things, such as money and education, that are considered necessary for an equal position in society

solar panel  n. a large, flat piece of equipment that uses the sun's light or heat to create electricity

from scratch  idm. from a point at which nothing has been done yet

disabilities  n. conditions, such as an illness or an injury, that damage or limit a person's physical or mental abilitiesExperts say Vietnam is copying China in its efforts to grow economically and is only about 10 years behind its larger neighbor.

In many ways, the two countries are competitors. But they have built up their state-controlled economies on job creation through factory work for export.

China opened up to foreign investment in 1978. Vietnam got started 10 years later.

Now Vietnam is learning to deal with corruption, traffic problems and the sinking performance of state-operated companies while the countrys middle class grows. Experts say the same issues were all signs of development in China.

Currently, Vietnams National Assembly is examining a bill to let the country have three special economic zones. The bill is likely to pass this month.

The Vietnamese website VnExpress International says the zones would offer foreigners who invest in factories tariff exemptions. This would free them from paying taxes required of other investors. The website said the proposal would also guarantee long-term leases for land on which factories are built.

This is similar to what China did in 1979, when it created four zones to increase foreign investment. Now, there are 32 such areas.

Song Seng Wun is an economist with CIMB Private Banking. He said Vietnam seems to be copying from what he called the Chinese Communist Partys playbook. He added that, Vietnam has a Communist Party. So I suppose there is that kind of, if China is doing it, we can also perhaps adapt it to Vietnamese conditions.

Controlled economy and factory work

Ralf Matthaes is the founder of Infocus Mekong Research, an advisory service in Ho Chin Minh City. He told VOA that governments in both China and Vietnam turned to factory work to employ large, uneducated populations.

In the early 2000s, Chinas economy heavily depended on factory work, especially for export. It helped drive economic growth about 10 percent every year to 2010. By following a similar path, Vietnams economy has expanded at more than six percent a year since 2015.

Like China 10 years ago, Vietnam depends largely on production of low-technology exports, such as furniture and car parts. China is moving up to produce more high-tech products and providing more services.

Companies from Japan, Singapore, South Korea and the West often turn to factories in China and Vietnam to save on labor costs. For investors looking for a less costly country, China has become the worlds factory, while some people are calling Vietnam China+1.

Matthaes said mass manufacturing is one way to employ a lot of unskilled workers. Although Vietnam looks to Singapore as an economic success story, the greatest model is China, he said.

The trade links between Vietnam and Singapore were growing five years ago. At that time, the Vietnamese ambassador to Singapore called relations between the two countries a model.

Although Vietnam depends on the Chinese economy for trade, it thinks of China as a competitor. The two countries fought a border war in the 1970s and now dispute territorial claims to parts of the South China Sea.

Directing results of fast growth

Observers say Chinas population saw results of factory-driven economic growth. They note that such growth is now affecting Vietnams economy.

The Boston Consulting Group predicts the number of middle- and upper-class Vietnamese will double between 2014 and 2020. It thinks that number could total about one-third of Vietnams current population of 93 million.

In other signs of following China, Vietnamese workers are known for moving from job to job within a few months for higher pay. Traffic is starting to thicken in the financial center Ho Chi Minh City, as it has in Chinas major cities, such as Beijing and Shanghai, since 2000.

Vietnams fight against corruption went public in 2017. It followed Chinas anti-corruption campaign, which experts say gained strength in 2012.

Observers say it is now Vietnams turn to make its state-owned businesses perform well or be sold off.

Kevin Snowball is the chief executive officer of PXP Vietnam Asset Management in Ho Chi Minh City. He notes that state-owned enterprises are another feature of communist countries. Such businesses heavily influenced the Vietnamese stock exchange from its creation in 2000 through 2005.

Thousands of Vietnams state enterprises have been all or partly privatized. China began reforming its state businesses about 20 years ago. It is still pressuring them to change following a drop in profits in 2015.

Snowball told VOA Vietnam established the stock market as a way to sell state assets. Snowball said this is because when the market first opened, almost everything that was listed was state-owned up until the end of 2005.

Snowball said, The government needs to spend probably 25 billion dollars a year on infrastructure development in order to keep encouraging (foreign direct investment) to come in. The sale of state assets is providing some of the money for that, he added.

I'm Dorothy Gundy.

APs Lisa Marie Pane reported on this story. Xiaotong Zhou adapted it for Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

_______________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

tariff  n. a tax on imports or exports

exemption  n. freedom from having to do something

adapt  v. to change ones behavior so that it is easier to work or live somewhere

+ - short for the words plus or and

executive  adj. relating to the directing of things

enterprise  n. a business organization, project or activity

asset  n. a valuable person or thing

infrastructure  n. the system of public works in a country or area

encourage  v. to give support or help; to make something more appealing

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, a diversified financial institution, provides various financial products and services to personal, business, public sector, and institutional clients in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through four strategic business units: Canadian Personal and Business Banking; Canadian Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; U.S. Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; and Capital Markets. The company offers chequing, savings, and business accounts; mortgages; loans, lines of credit, student lines of credit, and business and agriculture loans; investment and insurance services; and credit cards, as well as overdraft protection services. It also provides day-to-day banking, borrowing and credit, investing and wealth, specialty, and international services; correspondent banking and online foreign exchange services; and cash management services. The company serves its customers through its banking centers, as well as direct, mobile, and remote channels. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce was founded in 1867 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Read More American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2021. All rights reserved.

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MarketBeat does not provide personalized financial advice and does not issue recommendations or offers to buy stock or sell any security.



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 2021 Market data provided is at least 10-minutes delayed and hosted by Barchart Solutions. Information is provided 'as-is' and solely for informational purposes, not for trading purposes or advice, and is delayed. To see all exchange delays and terms of use please see disclaimer. Fundamental company data provided by Zacks Investment Research.36 minutes ago

Biden tries to tame inflation by having LA port open 24/7

WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden tried to reassure Americans on Wednesday that he can tame high inflation, announcing a deal to expand operations at the Port of Los Angeles as prices keep climbing and container ships wait to dock in a traffic jam threatening the U.S.

Read ArticleEagle Materials, Inc. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of heavy construction materials, light building materials, and materials used for oil and natural gas extraction. It operates through the following segments: Cement, Concrete and Aggregates, Gypsum Wallboard, Recycled Paperboard, and Oil and Gas Proppants. The Cement segment deals with the manufacture, production, distribution, and sale of portland cement. The Concrete and Aggregates segment involves mixing cement, sand, gravel, or crushed stone and water to form concrete, which is then sold and distributed to construction contractors. The Gypsum Wallboard segment mines and extracts natural gypsum rock, which is used in the manufacture of gypsum wallboard. The Recycled Paperboard segment processes paper fiber, water, and paper chemicals to form recycled paperboards, then sell them to gypsum wallboard manufacturers. The Oil and Gas Proppants segment produces frac sand used in oil and natural gas exploration, and provides transloading and storage for well servicing companies. The company was founded in 1963 and is headquartered in Dallas, TX.

Read MoreGuyana Goldfields Inc. provides exploration and production of gold. It engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, production, and operation of gold mineral properties. The company also owns and operates gold drilling rights. The company was formerly known as Chiboug Copper Company Limited and changed its name to Guyana Goldfields Inc. in January 1995. Guyana Goldfields Inc. was incorporated in 1994 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. As of August 25, 2020, Guyana Goldfields Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Zijin Mining Group Company Limited.

Read MoreGrafton Group plc engages in the distribution, retailing, and manufacturing businesses in Ireland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Its Distribution segment distributes building and plumbing materials to professional trades people engaged in residential repair, maintenance, and improvement projects, as well as in residential and other new build construction. This segment operates 487 branches primarily under the Selco, Buildbase, and Leyland SDM brands in the South East, Midlands, and North of England; the Chadwicks brand in the Republic of Ireland; and the MacBlair brand in Northern Ireland; and the Isero, Polvo, and Gunters en Meuser brands in the Netherlands. The company's Retailing segment engages in DIY retailing and home improvement business that supplies a range of products, including paints, lighting products, homestyle products, housewares, bathroom products, and kitchens, as well as gardening and Christmas products. This segment operates 35 stores primarily under the Woodie's brand. Its Manufacturing segment manufactures silo-based dry mortar for use in new build residential and commercial construction projects in England and Scotland; plastic pipe systems in Dublin; and wooden staircase in the United Kingdom. Grafton Group plc was founded in 1902 and is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

Read MoreChina Hydroelectric Corporation is a developer, owner and operator of small hydroelectric power projects in China. The projects are located in Zhejiang, Fujian, Yunnan and Sichuan. As of December 31, 2012, wholly owns 22 operating hydroelectric power projects and have controlling interests in three operating hydroelectric power projects. In March 2012, the Company sold 100% of the Yuanping hydroelectric power project. In April 2013, the Company sold the Yuheng hydroelectric power project, a 30 megawatt (MW) project located in Fujian province. In July 2014, the Company announced that it has completed the merger with CPT Wyndham Sub Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of CPT Wyndham Holdings Ltd.

Read MoreSophos Group plc, through its subsidiaries, provides cloud-enabled end-user and network security solutions. The company offers Intercept X, which delivers endpoint protection against unknown malware, exploits, and ransomware; XG Firewall, a next generation firewall that provides unprecedented visibility for networks, users, and applications directly from the control center; Sophos Central, a unified cloud administration console for managing various Sophos products; and Cloud Optix that offers artificial intelligence-based cloud security analytics, compliance, and DevSecOps platform to provide end-to-end protection in public cloud services. It also provides Sophos Wireless, a wireless access point; Sophos Email, an email security solution; Sophos Mobile, a unified endpoint management and mobile threat defense solution; UTM, a unified threat management solution; Phish Threat, a phishing simulation and engaging training solution; and Intercept X for Server, a next-generation server protection solution that provides security against cyber threats. In addition, the company offers SafeGuard Encryption solution; Secure Web Gateway for Web security; and Sophos Home for Mac and PC protection. It serves education, healthcare, retail, finance, and banking industries, as well as governments and public sectors in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Japan. Sophos Group plc was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in Abingdon, the United Kingdom.

Read MoreMore than a dozen people have been killed or wounded by traffickers as they attempted to flee a detention center in Libya last month, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, said on Friday, describing it as the latest horror story to emerge from the war-torn country.

The victims were among a group of around 200 Eritreans, Ethiopians and Somalis who escaped on May 23.

UNHCR spokesperson William Spindler told journalists in Geneva that survivors described how people were shot while trying to escape, and during attempts to recapture them in Bani Walid, nearly 200 km south of the capital Tripoli.

It is one of many areas of the North African country that have been under the control of armed groups since the overthrow of the late President Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

The survivors also spoke of torture, abuse and exploitation at the hands of traffickers, Spindler said, adding that some had been detained for up to three years.

According to UNHCR, the survivors have been transferred to an official detention center closer to Tripoli, where they have been given relief items and psychosocial support.

The agency is in discussion with the Libyan authorities to build an open reception center for migrants and refugees, but for the time being, detention is mandatory for all undocumented people who find themselves in the country, whether they are refugees or economic migrants, he said.

The issue in Libya is that there are, so far, no places where people who are found in this situation can be taken, who dont fall into the migrant category, Spindler said.

Among the survivors are a large number of unaccompanied children and UNHCR is working to identify the most vulnerable who may need international protection.

Spindler described the incident as the latest horror story coming out of Libya where people are being held by traffickers in horrific conditions and sold into a life of what is, in effect, modern-day slavery.

But he said that apart from the extraordinary circumstances of the escape, the deaths were not an isolated case, and warned that many refugees and migrants may still be hiding, or in captivity, in or near Bani Walid.

The oil-rich State has attracted nationals seeking work from neighboring countries for decades, and more recently those fleeing war and persecution from the African continent and beyond.

A recent study by the UN human rights office, OHCHR, and the UN Support Mission in the country, known as UNSMIL, estimated that some 6,500 people are being held in official prisons in Libya.

Thousands more are in facilities run by armed groups, some of which are affiliated with the State, the study found.Shown is a close-up of an intravenous (IV) bottle. Credit: Linda Bartlett/public domain

A 21-gene test performed on tumors could enable most patients with the most common type of early breast cancer to safely forgo chemotherapy, according to a landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Loyola Medicine oncologist Kathy Albain, MD, is among the main co-authors of the study and a member of the clinical trial's steering committee. First author is Joseph Sparano, MD, of Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, NY. The study was published in conjunction with its Sunday, June 3 presentation at the plenary session of the American Society of Clinical Oncology 2018 meeting in Chicago.

"With results of this groundbreaking study, we now can safely avoid chemotherapy in about 70 percent of patients who are diagnosed with the most common form of breast cancer," Dr. Albain said. "For countless women and their doctors, the days of uncertainty are over."

Dr. Albain, the Huizenga Family Endowed Chair in Oncology Research at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, has conducted research with the 21-gene test and also used it in her practice for years.

The test examines 21 genes from a patient's breast cancer biopsy sample to determine how active they are. The tumor is assigned a "recurrence score" from 0 to 100; the higher the score, the greater the chance the cancer will recur in distant organs and decrease survival. If patients with higher scores receive chemotherapy, this risk of recurrence will be significantly reduced, enabling more patients to be cured.

Previously, the challenge doctors and patients have faced is what to do if a patient has a mid-range score. It was uncertain whether the benefit of chemotherapy was great enough to justify the added risks and toxicity. Previous studies demonstrated that patients with low scores (10 or lower) did not need chemotherapy, while women with high scores (above 25) did require and benefit from chemotherapy.The new study examined the majority of women who fall in the intermediate range of 11 to 25.

The study enrolled 10,273 women who had the most common type of breast cancer (hormone-receptor positive, HER-2 negative) that had not spread to lymph nodes. Researchers examined outcomes of the 69 percent of patients who had intermediate scores on the 21-gene test.

Patients were randomly assigned to receive chemotherapy followed by hormonal therapy or hormone therapy alone. Researchers examined the chemotherapy and non-chemotherapy groups for several outcomes, including being cancer free, having cancer recur locally or to distant sites in the body and overall survival.

For the entire study population with gene test scores between 11 and 25-and especially among women aged 50 to 75-there was no significant difference between the chemotherapy and no chemotherapy groups. Among women younger than 50, outcomes were similar when gene test scores were 15 or lower. Among younger women with scores 16 to 25, outcomes were slightly better in the chemotherapy group.

"The study should have a huge impact on doctors and patients," Dr. Albain said. "Its findings will greatly expand the number of patients who can forgo chemotherapy without compromising their outcomes. We are de-escalating toxic therapy."

Explore further Breast cancer multigene test helping patients avoid chemotherapyDavid Kastner of Napa, a senior studying biophysics, was recently accepted as a fellow for the Simmons Center for Cancer Research (SCCR).

As part of his fellowship, Kastner is conducting cancer biology research at Dana-Farber Cancer Research Center at Harvard Medical School for part of the summer and will spend the second half of the summer at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at the National Biophysics Laboratory.

"Both prestigious internships are highly competitive and will give David the opportunity to collaborate with some of the leading scientists in the field of cancer biology," said a news release.

He is the son of William and Jennifer Kastner.Best of all, Mother and Daughter would be reunited. Sure, shed get a job and eventually move out of our house but not before spending lots of quality mother-daughter bonding time including afternoon tea outings, shopping and trips to favorite museums.

It turns out that while my husband and I had been savoring the thought of our oldest daughters homecoming shed been cooking up different ideas. Different ideas that dont include her parents or her return to her childhood bedroom and mom and dad in the house.

College Girl and California Boyfriend had hatched a plan. And that plan means getting jobs and their own apartment in Denver.

Apparently California Boyfriend did not understand his role in this process. I was counting on HIM to lure our former California Girl back to California. And me.

Darn these college graduates and their independent lives.

Hearing this news, Grandma Sue tried to console me by reminding me about the time when my husband and I were that same age and we up and moved to Iowa for five years. And how she and my dad moved across the country to California when they were newlyweds.

YES I KNOW MOM but thats not making me feel any better. And lets drop all references to weddings.Afterwards she explained to the crowd, Tyler said I really needed to try it, and I thought it would be rude if I didnt.

Good to know our mayor has good manners!

Beyond the Wine

As usual, there were endless options for wine at BottleRock. Presenting Sponsor JaM Cellars for instance, released their new rose, California Candy, just in time for the event and their frose offering attracted insanely long lines (it was so in demand that they supposedly had to bring in an extra 20 cases and two additional slushy machines). But what really stood out on the beverage scene was how the festival really stepped up its beer and spirits presence.

The local beer stand alone featured 32 brews, including Tannery Bend Beerworks, Trade Brewing, Napa Palisades, Fieldwork Brewing and Stone Brewing, all of which have taprooms in Napa.

Stone Brewing didnt have their own booth at BottleRock, but they did time the release of the first four of their Napa-specific beers around the festival weekend. Being just a few blocks from the action, the old Borreo building saw plenty of foot traffic before, during and after the music.One of two female drivers involved in a roadside altercation Friday was arrested on suspicion of assault and child endangerment, according to American Canyon Police.

Officers were notified at 5:03 p.m. of a road rage incident involving two women driving south on Highway 29 from South Kelly Road into the city, according to Sgt. Jeff Matlock.

Police were called to the intersection of Napa Junction Road and Theresa Avenue, where the two cars had stopped, Matlock said. One of the women told officers the other motorist reached inside her car, punched her in the face and bumped her vehicle, according to Matlock, who said the woman recorded video footage of the suspect.

Officers detained the other driver, 32-year-old Latrese Evonne Flood of Fairfield, on suspicion of felony counts of assault with a deadly weapon and child endangerment as well as driving with a suspended license. Flood, who is 35 weeks pregnant, had her 8-year-old son in the car, Matlock said.

Flood, who was booked into the Napa County jail and released later Friday night, also faced a theft warrant, according to Matlock.

A relative of Flood took custody of her son after the arrest, Matlock said.

Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy."It was a long journey, missing my parents and having to live very poorly," she says, tears welling up in her eyes. "But then we learned a lot. We learned to be among the poor. We learned to be one of them. And so we know how they are, and we have compassion."

Today Noelle is 53, petite and reserved, with sparking eyes and warm hands. "I don't want to talk about myself," she says.

And she usually doesn't. No one, not even her husband, knows what she does during the day. She takes care of the people in her own home, and then she takes care of everyone else she possibly can. She tells the kids in her Catholic religious education classes that it's not enough to just believe.

"You can't say you love God and then walk around and see people who are hungry or need help and walk away. That's not loving God," she says.

When a friend told her about fourth-graders at a local school who couldn't read, Noelle started meeting with the two boys every week at the library. When another friend told her they needed help at the Culmore Clinic, Noelle said they could call her anytime.A measure to repeal Californias hefty new increases in taxes and fees on motorists, more than $5 billion a year, is awaiting signature verification for a place on Novembers ballot.

However, its already an issue in some June 5 election contestsespecially in a recall effort aimed at state Sen. Josh Newman. The Fullerton Democrat took a seat away from Republicans two years ago and now is being accused of betraying constituents by voting for the tax and fee legislation, Senate Bill 1, last year.

Polls indicate that the new levies, including a 12-cent-per-gallon hike in gas taxes, are not popular with most voters. The state Republican Party is sponsoring the repeal measure, as well as backing the Newman recall effort, to leverage that disdain.

GOP leaders also hope the issue will spur higher turnout of anti-tax Republican voters, both in June and in November, and help the party retain several congressional seats that Democrats want to flip.

Thus, SB 1 is not only an important issue unto itselfthe money would go for a wide variety of transportation improvement projectsbut is intertwined with larger conflicts, including the nationwide jousting over control of Congress.When I turned 18, I took two bureaucratic steps that marked important milestones toward adulthood  one I dreaded and the other I had been looking forward to all my young life.

The first was to register for the draft, and I am fortunate to have been born in a period when my prime military years were relatively peaceful. So no draft for me.

The second was to register to vote. I came from a family where politics was the topic of everyday discussion and debate. We consumed news voraciously and talked about it endlessly. Voting was non-optional in our household.

As far as I can recall, I have missed only one opportunity to vote since the day I registered back in 1985, and that was some primary contest in an off year in Virginia. I dont even remember the details of that election, but I regretted not voting then and I still do.

I have run across journalists from time to time who decline to vote to preserve their neutrality. I have also run across many people who dont vote because they think it doesnt matter, or that they dont have the time.

I dont understand either position. There is no good excuse not to vote  ever.There is a good chance that you have voted already  the registrar of voters expects at least half of all ballots, perhaps many more, will have been cast in advance by the time Election Day, June 5, arrives.

But if you have not voted yet, please do so. There is so much at stake, and your main chance to affect policy and government at the local, state, and even national level is with your ballot.

Locally, voters are being asked to decide the fate of Measure C, which would limit when and how oak trees could be removed in the sprawling Ag Watershed zoning district, and Measure D, which would ban private heliports and airstrips in most of the county. Voters will also be asked to choose a supervisor for the huge Third District, which covers most of the county land outside of the incorporated towns and cities.

Regionally, voters will be asked whether to gradually hike tolls on all the areas bridges, except the Golden Gate, by $3 to fund a wide variety of transportation projects.I appreciate the recognition of Ernie Rota with the article in the May 14 edition of the Register ("The man behind the mini-park"). As a life-long Napan who cannot claim to know him personally, I am nonetheless aware of his fine reputation in this community, both as a businessman and former local City Council member.

The aspect of the article I take issue with is the sunny spin on redevelopment in the 1970s.

I lived through that period and personally witnessed the outright destruction of many significantly important historic structures in both downtown Napa and the surrounding historic neighborhoods.

This included the razing of both Lincoln and Shearer Schools (which I attended). On the site of Lincoln school now sits New Tech High. Shearer was replaced with what looks like temporary buildings to me.

Both of those original structures were built of un-reinforced masonry with exposed brick exteriors. They were beautiful, with large wood paneled auditoriums in the middle section of the ground floor and a grand stairway entrances in the front. The layouts were similar to the much larger historic Napa High building but on a smaller scale.This is no oft-repeated story of Indians stranded and tortured by Saudi kafils. Heres a woman from an affluent Saudi family in love with a 30-year-old migrant from Nazamabad, who was employed as a driver with her father, said a The Times Of India report. And, the 27-year-old broke shackles of a conservative Saudi household to travel all the way to Nepal and then sneak into India to meet her love and tie the knot with him in Nizamabad.

Her boyfriend returned to India in February.

When the father flew to Hyderabad in search of her a few days ago and lodged a complaint against the boy, the daughter, on Saturday, gave a statement to the Hyderabad Central Crime Station that she wants to stay in India with her husband.

After the boy returned to his native Nizamabad in February, the girl informed her boyfriend that she cannot stand their separation any more and would reach him soon.

The girl slipped out of Saudi Arabia in May and entered India illegally through the Indo-Nepal border. Then, she reached New Delhi from where she was picked up by the boy. The couple reached Nizamabad and got married, deputy commissioner of police (CCS) Avinash Mohanty told STOI.

A few days ago, her father came to Hyderabad along with Saudi Arabia embassy officials. Unaware that his daughter had already married, he lodged a complaint alleging that his daughter was abducted by his former driver and, accordingly, a case was registered at CCS.

Sleuths went to Nizamabad and traced the girl on Friday, but she refused to return . On Saturday, her statement was recorded .Since the girl entered India illegally, she approached the Indian government to help her in regularising her stay by granting permission. She told us that she came to India voluntarily, so the charge of abduction cannot sustain and the case will be closed, sources in CCS said.Armenia Parliament Speaker receives delegation led by Iran's Prosecutor General

Group of Armenian police officers apprehend citizen by using brute force (VIDEO)

Armenian analyst: Negotiations over Karabakh issue to resume sooner or later, "3+3" format is unrealistic

Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin expresses hope after Russian, Armenian and Azerbaijani spiritual leaders' meeting

Iran clarifies, says Azerbaijan released other prisoners, not detained Iranian truck drivers

Saakashvili agrees to have doctors assess his health condition

Putin: Events in Afghanistan may seriously impact situations in Central Asia and Transcaucasia

Iran Armed Forces Staff chief, Pakistan PM discuss strengthening of border security

Taliban warn US, EU of refugees if sanctions against Afghanistan aren't lifted

Armenia PM receives India FM

Azerbaijan refutes report on release of two Iranian truck drivers

Armenia health minister: Another mother-to-be dies from COVID-19

Karabakh emergency situations service: Remains of 2 more Armenian servicemen found in Hadrut

Baku releases two Iranian truck drivers after Azerbaijan and Iran FMs' phone talks

Erdogan, Aliyev to mark anniversary of occupation of Shushi by opening airport

Armenia deputy justice minister receives Council of Europe delegation

Armenia appoints new Ambassador to Iran

Armenia finance minister presents government's five-year plan to German partners

Russian, Armenian and Azerbaijani spiritual leaders make statement on Karabakh

Karabakh Defense Army refutes Azerbaijan MOD's disinformation

Digest: Pashinyan and Putin meet in Moscow, Biden and Erdogan discuss Nagorno-Karabakh

Armenia Parliament Speaker receives AGBU Montreal Chapter's leadership

Mher Shirinyan appointed Armenia Armed Forces Armament Department head

S&P Improved the Outlook on Ameriabank to Positive

Security Council chief: Armenia never held, will not hold negotiations about corridor

US embassy in Armenia remains unable to resume routine visa operations

Healthcare specialist: Hospital bed capacity for Armenia COVID-19 patients is full

Dollar gains value in Armenia

Armenia Prosecutor General: Essential progress has been made in processes for transfer of Iranian convicts

UAE Supreme Audit Institution chairman-led delegation on official visit to Armenia

Armenia Ambassador to Iran Artashes Tumanyan recalled

Armenia FM leaving for Minsk

Armenia court rejects appeal, Goris mayor to not be released

Iran Prosecutor General to Armenia PM: Our relations are good basis for jointly confronting regional challenges

Iran Prosecutor General to Armenia justice minister: It is necessary to work more closely

Armenia opposition MP, ex-defense minister: Russia peacekeepers presence in Artsakh uncertain in terms of prospects

Iran Prosecutor General: Terrorists must disappear from region as soon as possible

Azerbaijani opposition members holding protest in front of ruling party's headquarters

Azerbaijan president calls Iran statements delusion

Patriarch Kirill, Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II and Sheikh ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazadeh meet

Aliyev demands from Russia peacekeepers to prevent illegal entry of foreign citizens to Karabakh

Armenia and India FMs visit monument to Mahatma Gandhi in Yerevan

India FM visits Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan (PHOTOS)

Armenia, India FMs discuss possibility of transit via Iran port

36 new cases of coronavirus reported in Artsakh

Armenia FM: Persian Gulf-Black Sea project discussion continues dynamically

India FM says they support Karabakh peace process under auspices of OSCE Minsk Group

FM: Armenia welcomes resumption of talks within framework of OSCE Minsk Group

Armenia foreign minister to visit India

Healthcare expert on Armenia coronavirus cases: We are moving from red zone to flashing red zone

Vanetsyan: Artsakh self-determination issue shall be resolved through talks under OSCE Minsk Group auspices (PHOTOS)

1,217 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Anne Louyot: France working with Russia, US on lasting agreement on Karabakh

Armenias Pashinyan says Moscow meeting with Russias Putin was productive

World oil prices falling

Armenia Central Bank announces issuance of collector coin dedicated to 150th birth anniversary of Alexander Spendiaryan

Pentagon wants to reduce cost of hypersonic weapons

Newspaper: Armenia authorities put forward new notion regarding Artsakh

Newspaper: Armenia Special Investigation Service has noteworthy document in criminal case against ex-official

Amirabdollahian to Bayramov: Iran, Azerbaijan must block path for misconceptions

Catholicos of All Armenians meets with Patriarch Kirill I of Moscow and all Russia

Erdogan's spokesperson confirms news about Ankara considering purchasing F-16 fighter jets from US

Iran says it has documents confirming transfer of terrorist groups to Azerbaijan

Armenia Parliament Speaker receives UNDP "Modern Parliament for a Modern Armenia" Program representatives

Iran's Prosecutor General is in Armenia, received by Armenian counterpart

Patriarch Kirill: Political interests are disturbing parties to Nagorno-Karabakh conflict from reaching agreement

Opposition "Armenia" faction hosts members of AGBU Canada

India FM arrives in Yerevan

Ceremony commemorating National Hero of Armenia Vahagn Avetisyan was held

Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia

Armenia Parliament Speaker receives head of ICRC Delegation

Digest: Pashinyan is on working visit to Russia, Malkhas Amoyan declared world champion

Armenia education, science, culture and sport minister receives newly appointed French Ambassador

Putin-Pashinyan meeting kicks off at the Kremlin

Armenia high-tech industry minister receives Iran Ambassador

Dollar holding relatively steady in Armenia

Armenia Parliament Speaker sends condolence message to Georgian counterpart

Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II: Armenia will overcome difficult times with Russia's support

Putin to hold online meeting with heads of security agencies of CIS countries

Andrea Wiktorin: EU ready to be mediator between Armenia and Azerbaijan, if they wish

Armenia Parliament Speaker on opening of roads and return of Armenian POWs

Displaced residents of Karabakh hold demonstration in front of Russia Embassy in Armenia

Turkey President's spokesperson: Biden, Erdogan to discuss Nagorno-Karabakh

Taliban says NATO should speak to movement only in language of diplomacy

Armenia Parliament Speaker receives Syria Ambassador

Historical houses of Armenians in Igdir are perishing

Texas governor bans forcing residents of state to vaccinate against COVID-19

Armenia parliamentary opposition boycotts standing committee session

Speaker: Only those vaccinated against coronavirus will have right to enter Armenia legislature building

Armenias Pashinyan in Russia on working visit

Kremlin: Format of Putin-Pashinyan talks implies conversation and working lunch

Armenia delegation head: PACE called on Azerbaijan to return all Armenian POWs immediately

Armenia ex-Deputy PM and now opposition MP's attorney leaves courtroom as protest against judge's actions

Bloomberg says Erdogan will persuade Biden to allow Ankara to buy US military aircraft

Armenia former deputy PM and now MP Gevorgyan: Court is holding me captive

Armenia opposition MP: PM not guaranteeing Kashatagh, Shushi regions villages will not be under Azerbaijan control

Armenia ex-deputy PM, now lawmaker Gevorgyan's lawyer submits 2 motions to court

Armenia ex-president Kocharyan, former deputy PM and now MP Gevorgyan criminal case court hearing resumes

Pashinyan to Spains Sanchez: I appreciate your country's support for expansion of Armenia-EU partnership

Armenia, India FMs to meet WednesdayRussias plans to supply S-400 Triumf air defense systems to Qatar will not be affected by the opposition of Saudi Arabia, Russian senior lawmaker Aleksei Kondratyev told Sputnik.

"Russia seeks its own interest, supplying S-400 to Qatar and earning money for the state budget. Saudi Arabias position has nothing to do with it, Russias plans will not change  It is clear that Riyadh plays a dominant role in the region, but Qatar gets an advantage by enhancing its Armed Forces due to the acquisition of Russian S-400 systems. Therefore, Saudi Arabias tension is understandable," Kondratyev, who serves as the deputy chairman of the upper house Committee on Defense and Security, said.

Moreover, Washington also regularly urges Riyadh to oppose the deal between Moscow and Doha, according to the lawmaker.

"The United States does not want to lose a very lucrative regional market of weapons and they will continue to pressure Saudis," Kondratyev underlined.On Saturday at 10pm, Police of Armenia received a call from a capital city Yerevan hospital, which informed that a Yerevan resident with stab wounds was admitted to the hospital. He had informed that he was injured during an argument at a jewelry market.

And at around 10:05pm, a call was received from the ambulance service. It informed that an ambulance staff was dispatched to the aforesaid jewelry market on a call, and where it found the dead body of another Yerevan resident with stab wounds.

The Investigative Committee of Armenia filed a criminal case into this murder.

According to preliminary investigation, an argument had started at this jewelry market between its security personnel and a gold jewelry maker and his friends. Subsequently, one of them stabbed two of the security guards, one of whom died on the spot, whereas the other one was hospitalized.

The stabbing suspect has been identified. He also is a Yerevan resident, he had received higher education, and he is learning jewelry at this market.

The suspect has been detained and interrogated. Also, he handed over the knife that was used in this crime.

The investigation is still in progress.It is often asserted that the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 proved that HWA was right and he really did see the future.

This of course is nonsense. Herbert W. Armstrong said that Christ would return within twenty years in his book Mystery of the Ages. (PCG has since deleted those words so someone in there knows HWA spoke nonsense.) How convenient for them to forget this.

Also Herbert W. Armstrong never said the Soviet Union would collapse. He thought it would survive intact until a few years after Christ's return. It shows how biased some many in the COGs are that they never seem to notice this. This inconvenient truth is just tossed into the memory hole.

It is true that HWA said that some Eastern European states would break away from Moscow's orbit and join the European Empire he said would arise at any moment. But he never talked of the Soviet Union collapsing. He did not teach that. Also he portrayed the rise of the European Empire to be far quicker then what has actually happened. In Mystery of the Ages Christ was supposed to return by 2005 at the most.

So assertions that the fall of the Berlin Wall somehow prove that HWA was right is just complete nonsense spread by people who, for whatever reason, are still in denial that HWA was a false prophet who merely talked out of his own "human reasoning".In just five days, Canada's Senate could alter the face of the legal cannabis industry throughout the world with its vote on bill C-45, which is best known as the Cannabis Act. If approved by the Senate, it would pave the way for Canada to become the first developed country in the world to legalize adult-use cannabis.

What does legal weed mean for Canada and its supply chain of growers, processors, distributors, and retailers? How about $5 billion, or more, in added annual sales? Mind you, this comes on top of what the industry is already generating from the export of medical marijuana to foreign countries where medical weed is legal, as well as domestic medical cannabis sales. It's this expected surge in sales that's pushed growers to expand their capacity as quickly as their balance sheets will allow. It's also the reason pot stock valuations have soared in recent years.

A lit cannabis joint in front of a red Canadian maple leaf.

Image source: Getty Images.

The Canadian cannabis industry has faced numerous challenges

Of course, this isn't to say that the Canadian weed industry hasn't or won't face a number of challenges in the months and years that lie ahead. For example, the projected launch of recreational marijuana was delayed until August or September, from the beginning of July, in order to allow growers enough time to get their product to retailers.

Financing had been another major concern for most Canadian pot stocks. Since marijuana is still illegal at the federal level, banks usually want nothing to do with cannabis-based companies. This has meant the need for publicly traded marijuana stocks to turn to dilutive bought-deal offerings in order to raise capital. While the industry is now overflowing with cash, it's investors who could pay the price in the years to come as a result of weaker earnings per share.

But looking ahead, the biggest issue facing the Canadian pot industry appears to be whether or not it can rid itself of the black market.

Story continues

A young man wearing a hoodie and carrying a potted cannabis plant.

Image source: Getty Images.

The Canadian weed market's biggest challenge

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who's been the key figure championing the legalization of recreational marijuana in Canada, has long opined that the best way to remove the black market from the equation is to tax adult-use cannabis at a low rate and make legal weed comparable in price to illicit pot. This is why Canada's tax proposal calls for a $0.77-per-gram (1 Canadian dollar) tax on cannabis up to $7.70 (CA$10), and then a flat 10% tax on more expensive strains.

By comparison, some folks in California could be paying up to 45% in sales tax to purchase recreational marijuana. Additionally, excise tax rates on beer, wine, and liquor in Canada tend to hover around 50%, 65% to 70%, and 80%, respectively. That's how relatively low Canada's tax on cannabis is compared to U.S. legal states and to its own domestic alcohol industry.

However, simply charging a low tax rate and de-emphasizing tax revenue isn't a guarantee to succeed. What some folks might be overlooking is the fact that the black market has virtually no overhead costs. There are no cultivation licenses or sales permits to buy or wait for, no rent to pay, and no tax to hand over to the federal government. Even with an ideal tax situation, it's not out of the question that the black market retains a significant portion of the Canadian domestic and export pot business -- at least initially.

A cannabis processor holding a trimmed bud in their hand.

Image source: Getty Images.

Things may change, but it'll take a few years to play out

Where things could get really interesting is roughly three-to-five years from now, when the supply of legal cannabis increases considerably and dried cannabis begins to be commoditized.

For example, most growers are still a year or two away from being at full production capacity. But by 2020, my personal estimation is that we could see a run rate of 2.4 million kilograms per year from Canadian growers. At least domestically, this works out to a well over 1 million-kilogram oversupply. Assuming exports are unable to gobble up the entirety of this oversupply, it's not out of the question that dried cannabis prices might drop precipitously over the course of a few years. Should this happen, the price difference between the black market and legal markets would narrow. Or, to put this another way: only when dried cannabis margins shrink significantly, and legally operating businesses are able to use economies of scale to their advantage, will legal cannabis stand a real shot at kicking illegal marijuana out of the market for good.

Why is it important if the black market remains? While I'm certain there will be plenty of sales growth to go around for growers and retailers, the presence of the black market would cause peak sales estimates to have been overstated. It could also make it a struggle in the early going for legal retailers charging a significantly higher price point than black-market weed. And, may I remind you, many of the largest growers are unlikely to be significantly profitable anytime soon.

As much as I've harped on shareholder dilution and oversupply being an issue for Canadian pot stocks, they may take a back seat, at least initially, to the dangers of competing against black-market marijuana.

More From The Motley Fool

The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.In this article, Im going to take a look at Vietnam Industrial Investments Limiteds (ASX:VII) latest ownership structure, a non-fundamental factor which is important, but remains a less discussed subject among investors. Ownership structure has been found to have an impact on shareholder returns in both short- and long-term. Differences in ownership structure of companies can have a profound effect on how managements incentives are aligned with shareholder returns, which is why well take a moment to analyse VIIs shareholder registry.

See our latest analysis for Vietnam Industrial Investments

ASX:VII Ownership_summary Jun 1st 18

Insider Ownership

I find insiders are another important group of stakeholders, who are directly involved in making key decisions related to the use of capital. In essence, insider ownership is more about the alignment of shareholders interests with the management. 6.17% ownership makes insiders an important shareholder group. An insider stake of this level indicates that executives are highly aligned with the shareholders as both stand to gain when the value of the company rises. However, it would be interesting to take a look at their buying and selling activities lately. Buying may be sign of upbeat future expectations, but selling doesnt necessarily mean the opposite as the insiders may be motivated by financial needs or they are simply diversifying their risk.

General Public Ownership

The general public holds 2.89% stake in VII, which represents a relatively small class of owners. This size of ownership, while considerably small for a public company, may not be enough to change company policy if the decision is not in sync with other large shareholders.

Private Company Ownership

Potential investors in VII should also look at another important group of investors: private companies, with a stake of 81.80%, who are primarily invested because of strategic and capital gain interests. An ownership of this size indicates a strong financial backing and has the potential to influence VIIs business strategy. Thus, investors should dig deeper into VIIs business relations with these companies and how it can affect shareholder returns in the long-term.

Story continues

Next Steps:

A relatively significant holding of company insiders could mean high alignment with shareholders. But at the same time, investors should be aware of the level of influence executives could have on governance decisions. However, ownership structure should not be the only determining factor when youre building an investment thesis for VII. Instead, you should be evaluating company-specific factors such as the intrinsic valuation, which is a key driver of Vietnam Industrial Investmentss share price. I highly recommend you to complete your research by taking a look at the following:

Financial Health: Is VIIs operations financially sustainable? Balance sheets can be hard to analyze, which is why weve done it for you. Check out our financial health checks here. Past Track Record: Has VII been consistently performing well irrespective of the ups and downs in the market? Go into more detail in the past performance analysis and take a look at the free visual representations of VIIs historicals for more clarity. Other High-Performing Stocks: Are there other stocks that provide better prospects with proven track records? Explore our free list of these great stocks here.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

To help readers see pass the short term volatility of the financial market, we aim to bring you a long-term focused research analysis purely driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis does not factor in the latest price sensitive company announcements.



The author is an independent contributor and at the time of publication had no position in the stocks mentioned.IOTA announced a partnership with DNB ASA on May 31. As part of the partnership, DNB and IOTA are exploring ways to implement the new technologies and processes made possible IOTAs Tangle.

DNB is the largest financial service firm in Norway based on market capitalization. The firm specializes in investment banking, global markets, and corporate banking. It is a global leader in banking for the shipping, energy, and seafood industries.

Lasse Meholm, Head of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) at DNB, said about the partnership:

As Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine to Machine (M2M) communication and payment for microservices seem to escalate in the future, we think engaging in a Distributed Ledger based technology like IOTA gives us valuable experience and know-how on future revenue streams and business models. We are looking forward to dive into the IOTA space[.]

The partnership with DNB comes shortly after another announcement that IOTA would work with a key logistics firm for the United Nations. That partnership is also centered around uses for the Tangle technology for global transactions and transparency.

Norway has always been a vanguard in adopting cutting-edge technological paradigm shifts that improve the efficiency of our society, I am very excited at the IOTA Foundation which is spearheading Distributed Ledger Technology and IoT payments working with Norways largest financial institution on carrying this tradition onwards, added David Snsteb, Founder of IOTA Foundation.

Continued IOTA Price Strength

The steady price increase for the IOTA has remained in place today as investor optimism stays firm, already up over 4% for today at $1.82. This comes at a time when the general market has cooled off from the rallies seen yesterday.

IOTAs Promising Outlook in the Finance Sector

The banking sector has drawn a lot of attention lately for exploring blockchain technology. As CCN reported, IBM, along with Hyperledger, is introducing its technology more and more. With more banks speaking up about bitcoin and blockchain in general, we should expect to see more exploratory partnerships like IOTA and DNB.

Story continues

Projects that show promise for improving efficiencies in transaction settles, auditing, and identity management are drawing the most attention from the financial sector. The Distributed Ledger Technology proves valuable to firms that seek quicker, more transparent payment settles, which traditional blockchains are less ideal for, as CCN reported.

However, the IOTA Foundation has drawn previous criticism from other partners for lashing out towards white-hat security researchers. This resulted in the London College ending ties with IOTA.

Featured image from Shutterstock.



The post Norways Largest Bank Partners IOTA for Distributed Ledger Solutions appeared first on CCN.

ICO Coins jar

Zimbabwe cryptocurrency exchange platform, Golix, is now proceeding ahead with its planned token sale to raise $32 million and has expanded to Kenya and Uganda with effect from the beginning of this month.

Golixs Initial Coin Offering had been disrupted after the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe banned banks from processing cryptocurrency transactions in the country. The apex bank also subsequently ordered Golix to cease crypto operations but the exchange successfully obtained a court ruling overturning this move.

Despite the court ruling restoring Golix operations, the regulatory issues in Zimbabwe had caused much uncertainty and disruption to trade and investment in virtual currencies in the country as Golix scrambled for a way out.

It has now appeared that the company has set its sights on the broader African market and will also be proceeding with the token sale.

Zimbabwes digital currencies pioneer, Golix is raising $32 million through a token sale in, a bid to finance cryptocurrencies infrastructure across the entire African continent, Nhlalwenhle Ngwenya, spokesperson for Golix said on Friday night.

The token sale, according to William Chui, who is the head of special projects at the Zimbabwean digital currency exchange, is also aimed to anchor initiatives that will enable instant remittances and international payments through cryptocurrencies.

The company has explained that the GLX token, which is an Ethereum ERC20 token, is already available for purchase from June 1 2018 on the Golix token sale website.

Potential buyers can use their bitcoin (BTC) and/or ethereum (ETH) to buy the GLX token which is being sold at a price of $0.05612. About 1,2 billion tokens will be availed but only 637,120,049 have been availed for sale during the current and initial token sale.

People from respective different countries will be able to buy the GLX token from the exchange using their fiat currencies. The GLX token will be used to buy other Altcoins in the exchange, all this will be done at zero transactions fee, said Chui.

Story continues

As it battles regulatory issues in Zimbabwe, Golix has also announced further expansion into Africa. This is in addition to its earlier agreements to launch operations and partnerships in South Africa, which is already taxing bitcoin and other cryptocurrency investments.

As part of our strategy starting from Friday 1 June, people in Kenya, South Africa and

Uganda will be able to start trading from Golix. This is one of our plans to be the leading exchange in Africa, which inspired by the vision to provide financial autonomy in the continent, explained Panashe Tapera, the head of growth at the exchange platform.

Africa is moving up to embrace virtual currencies although only a few markets on the continent have operational cryptocurrency exchange platforms.



The post Zimbabwes Biggest Crypto Exchange Golix Moves Closer to $32 Million ICO Launch appeared first on CCN.

Horizonte Minerals Plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the identification, acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral projects in Brazil. The company primarily explores for nickel deposits, as well as cobalt deposits. It holds 100% interest in the Araguaia ferronickel project and the Vermelho Nickel-Cobalt project located in the south of the CarajAs mineral district in northern Brazil. The company was incorporated in 2006 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Zimmer Biomet: Abbott Spine, Beijing Montagne Medical Device Co. Ltd., Beijing Montagne Medical Device Co. Ltd., BioMet, Biomet 3i Australia Pty. Ltd., Biomet 3i Belgium N.V., Biomet 3i Benelux Holdings N.V., Biomet 3i Dental Iberica SL, Biomet 3i LLC, Biomet 3i Mexico S.A. de C.V., Biomet 3i Netherlands B.V., Biomet 3i Nordic AB, Biomet 3i Portugal Lda, Biomet 3i Switzerland GmbH, Biomet 3i Turkey, Biomet 3i UK Ltd., Biomet 3i do Brasil Comercio de Aparelhos Medicos Ltda., Biomet Acquisitions (Unlimited), Biomet Argentina SA, Biomet Australia Pty. Ltd., Biomet Biologics LLC, Biomet Brazil Medical Device Ltda., Biomet C.V., Biomet CV Holdings LLC, Biomet Cementing Technologies AB, Biomet Chile SA, Biomet China Co. Ltd., Biomet Deutschland GmbH, Biomet Deutschland Holding GmbH, Biomet Fair Lawn LLC, Biomet Finance US LLC, Biomet France Sarl, Biomet Global Supply Chain Center B.V., Biomet Healthcare Management GmbH, Biomet Holdings B.V., Biomet Hong Kong CBT Ltd., Biomet Hong Kong Holding Ltd., Biomet Hong Kong No. 1 Ltd., Biomet Inc., Biomet Insurance Ltd., Biomet International Inc., Biomet International Orthopedics LLC, Biomet Leasing Inc., Biomet Manufacturing LLC, Biomet Mexico S.A. de C.V., Biomet Microfixation B.V., Biomet Orthopedics LLC, Biomet Orthopedics Puerto Rico Inc., Biomet Spain Orthopaedics S.L., Biomet Sports Medicine LLC, Biomet Trauma LLC, Biomet U.S. Reconstruction LLC, Biomet UK Healthcare Ltd., Biomet UK Ltd., CD Diagnostics, CD Diagnostics Inc., CD Laboratories Inc., Cayenne Medical, Cayenne Medical Inc., CelgenTek Innovations Corporation, Centerpulse Ltd, Changzhou Biomet Medical Devices Co. Ltd., Citra Labs LLC, Clinical Graphics, Compression Therapy Concepts Inc., Compression Therapy Products, D.S. Comp Ltd., Dornoch Medical Systems, Dornoch Medical Systems Inc., EBI Holdings LLC, EBI LLC, EBI Medical Systems LLC, EBI Patient Care Inc., ETEX Corporation, ETEX Holdings Inc., Electro-Biology LLC, Endius, Espanormed S.L., Etex, ExtraOrtho, Hakuho Company Ltd., IC Guided Surgery SRL, Implant Concierge LLC, Implant Innovations Holdings LLC, Implex, InnoVision Inc., Interpore Cross International LLC, JERDS Luxembourg Holding Sarl, Kirschner Medical Corporation, Knee Creations, LDR Brasil Comercio Importacao e Exportacao Ltda., LDR Holding, LDR Medical Hong Kong (branch), LDR Medical S.A.S., LVB Acquisition Inc., Lanx Puerto Rico LLC , Lanx Srl, Medical Compression Systems Inc., Medtech SA, Medtech SAS, Medtech Surgical GmbH, Medtech Surgical Inc., NORMED Medizin-Technik GmbH, ORTHOsoft ULC, Ortho Transmission, Orthopaedic Advantage LLC, Ospol Participacoes Ltda., Representaciones Zimmer Inc. S. de R.L. de C.V., Respondwell, SM Re Ltd., Scandimed Holding AB, Shanghai Biomet Business Consulting Co. Ltd., Synvasive Technology, Synvasive Technology Inc., ZB COOP C.V., ZB COOP LLC, ZB Cayman (Asia) Holding Ltd., ZB Cayman Island CBT 2 Ltd., ZB Dental India Private Limited, ZB EMEA 1 LP, ZB EMEA Finance UK 1 Ltd., ZB EMEA Finance UK 2 Ltd., ZB EMEA Finance UK 3 Ltd., ZB EMEA US UK LLC, ZB Hong Kong CBT 2 Ltd., ZB Hong Kong Holding Ltd., ZB Hong Kong Ltd., ZB Manufacturing LLC, ZB UK Group Holdings Limited, ZH2LX Barbados Branch (branch), Zfx, Zfx GmbH, Zfx Innovation GmbH, Zhejiang Biomet Medical Products Co. Ltd., Zimmer (Shanghai) Medical International Trading Co. Ltd., Zimmer Asia (HK) Ltd., Zimmer Australia Holding Pty. Ltd., Zimmer Biomet (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Zimmer Biomet Asel Alarabiya Limited Company, Zimmer Biomet Asia Holding B.V., Zimmer Biomet Asia Holdings Pte. Ltd., Zimmer Biomet Austria GmbH, Zimmer Biomet BVBA, Zimmer Biomet CBT, Zimmer Biomet CBT 2, Zimmer Biomet CMF and Thoracic LLC, Zimmer Biomet Canada Inc., Zimmer Biomet Centroamerica SA, Zimmer Biomet Comp Ltd., Zimmer Biomet Denmark ApS, Zimmer Biomet Dental Canada Inc., Zimmer Biomet Dental K.K., Zimmer Biomet Deutschland GmbH, Zimmer Biomet Distribution LLC, Zimmer Biomet Finance Srl, Zimmer Biomet Finance US Holding Inc., Zimmer Biomet Finland Oy, Zimmer Biomet France Holdings SAS, Zimmer Biomet France SAS, Zimmer Biomet GK, Zimmer Biomet Global Holdings Switzerland GmbH, Zimmer Biomet Hellas SA, Zimmer Biomet Ireland Limited, Zimmer Biomet Italia Srl, Zimmer Biomet Korea Ltd., Zimmer Biomet Nederland B.V., Zimmer Biomet New Zealand Company, Zimmer Biomet Norway AS, Zimmer Biomet OUS Holdings AG, Zimmer Biomet Polska Sp. z.o.o, Zimmer Biomet Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Zimmer Biomet Pty. Ltd., Zimmer Biomet Romania S.R.L., Zimmer Biomet South Africa (Pty) Ltd., Zimmer Biomet Spain S.L., Zimmer Biomet Spine Inc., Zimmer Biomet Sweden AB, Zimmer Biomet Taiwan Co. Ltd., Zimmer Biomet UK Ltd., Zimmer Biomet US 2 Holding Inc., Zimmer CBT I Holding Inc., Zimmer CBT II Holding Inc., Zimmer CEP USA Holding Co., Zimmer CEP USA Inc., Zimmer CIS Ltd., Zimmer CV Inc., Zimmer Caribe LLC, Zimmer Cayman Islands Holding Co. Ltd., Zimmer Co-op Holdings LLC, Zimmer Colombia SAS, Zimmer Czech sro, Zimmer Dental (Shanghai) Medical Device Co. Ltd., Zimmer Dental Chile Spa, Zimmer Dental GmbH, Zimmer Dental Inc., Zimmer Dental Italy Srl, Zimmer Dental Ltd., Zimmer Dental SAS, Zimmer Finance Ireland, Zimmer France Manufacturing Sarl, Zimmer Germany Holdings GmbH, Zimmer GmbH, Zimmer GmbH Euro IP Branch (branch), Zimmer GmbH Winterthur Branch (branch), Zimmer Gulf FZ LLC, Zimmer Inc., Zimmer India Private Ltd., Zimmer International Logistics GmbH, Zimmer Investments LLC, Zimmer Knee Creations Inc., Zimmer Luxembourg II Sarl, Zimmer Luxembourg Sarl, Zimmer Manufacturing B.V., Zimmer Manufacturing B.V. (branch), Zimmer Medical Malaysia SDN BHD, Zimmer Netherlands Cooperatief U.A., Zimmer Orthobiologics Inc., Zimmer Orthopedics Manufacturing Limited, Zimmer Production Inc., Zimmer Pte. Ltd., Zimmer Slovakia sro, Zimmer Southeast Florida LLC, Zimmer Spine Next Inc., Zimmer Spine SAS, Zimmer Surgical, Zimmer Surgical Inc., Zimmer Surgical SA, Zimmer Switzerland Holdings LLC, Zimmer Switzerland Manufacturing GmbH, Zimmer Tibbi Cihazlar Sanayi ve Ticaret AS, Zimmer Trabecular Metal Technology Inc., Zimmer Trustee Ltd., Zimmer UK Limited, Zimmer US Inc., and Zimmer do Brasil Comercio Ltda..Shirley Contreras lives in Orcutt and writes for the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society. She can be contacted at 623-8193 or at shirleycontreras2@yahoo.com. Her book, The Good Years, a selection of stories shes written for the Santa Maria Times since 1991, is on sale at the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society, 616 S. Broadway.FILE PHOTO: Workers pull a rope tied to a decommissioned oil rig to dismantle it at the Alang shipyard FILE PHOTO: Workers pull a rope tied to a decommissioned oil rig to dismantle it at the Alang shipyard in the western state of Gujarat, India, May 29, 2018. REUTERS/Amit Dave/File photo

By Jessica Jaganathan

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - The shipping industry will this year scrap the largest number of oil tankers in over half-a-decade, driven by weak earnings, firm prices for scrap steel and the need to prepare fleets for strict new environmental regulations.

The surge in scrapping underscores how the sector is grappling with one of its worst-ever crises, hit hard after rates for transporting oil plunged to multi-year lows in the wake of excess tanker supply and tepid demand as OPEC production cuts bite.

"The tanker markets are definitely in a trough at the moment, with one of the worst years in a decade in terms of freight rates and returns," said Ralph Leszczynski, head of research at ship broker Banchero Costa in Singapore.

The tough operating conditions are expected to persist until at least the second-half of 2019, analysts and industry sources said.

GRAPHIC: Oil tanker rates languish near record lows amid vessel oversupply - https://reut.rs/2L9bdKN

Estimates on the number of tanker demolitions vary between the four shipping analysts that Reuters spoke to, with the most conservative standing at a seven-year high in 2018.

About 10.3 million deadweight tonnes (DWT) have been sold for demolition from January to April this year, compared with 11.2 million DWT for the whole of 2017 and 2.5 million for 2016, said Erik Broekhuizen, head of tanker research and consulting at ship broker Poten & Partners Inc.

"OPEC production cuts are hurting the market, and as long as they are in place, the tanker market will remain challenged," he said, adding that scrapping had picked up for large vessels in particular.

GRAPHIC: Oil tanker demolitions by type, year - https://reut.rs/2L4DDFq

Since early 2017, members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Russia and other non-OPEC crude producers have curbed exports to fight a global oil glut.

The imposition of new U.S. sanctions against Iran looks set to further reduce oil flows later in 2018, although Saudi Arabia and Russia have discussed potentially raising output to fill the subsequent void.

Story continues

GETTING SCRAPPY

More stringent environmental regulations to be implemented by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in 2020 will make operating old ships uneconomical, said Leszczynski at Banchero Costa.

Limited interest in using tankers to store oil, which has historically been a profitable option for shipowners during lulls in shipping volumes, is also curbing overall demand, analysts said.

Scrap steel prices in Shanghai, China - the world's top consumer and producer of the material - have meanwhile nearly doubled from a year ago due to shutdowns of inefficient steel mills amid a widespread crackdown on industrial emissions.

Firms that have recently sent ships for scrapping include India's Essar Shipping Ltd <ESPL.NS> and Oslo-listed Frontline Ltd <FRO.OL>. The latter last month reported better earnings than analysts had expected, partly due to its increased scrapping.

GETTING YOUNGER

The ships being scrapped are also getting younger, with the average age falling to 19.5 years in the first quarter of this year, compared with 2017's average of 22 years, said Rajesh Verma, an analyst with shipping consultancy Drewry.

Most of the vessels are being scrapped in Bangladesh and India, although Pakistan has also returned to the demolition market after an 18-month ban, analysts said.

The uptick in demolition rates has come despite increased opposition from European regulators due to environmental concerns.

GRAPHIC; VLCC oil tanker 'Raphaela' beached for scrapping near Karachi, Pakistan - https://reut.rs/2JiDTnf

Despite the high scrap rate, tanker earnings will continue to be hit as fleet-growth is still too high, analysts said.

Banchero Costa's Leszczynski expects the crude tanker fleet to expand 3.3 percent this year, following growth of 4.6 percent last year and 5.8 percent in 2016.

With tanker rates still a long way from being profitable, there's little prospect of a broad industry improvement until the second half of 2019 at the earliest, said Peter Sand, chief shipping analyst at industry lobby group BIMCO.

"Any recovery in rates in the tanker market will be hinged on the extent of scrapping in the coming years ... we expect rates to start recovering in the second half of 2019 if scrapping remains strong," said Verma at Drewry.

GRAPHIC; Oil tanker fleet by type & year - https://reut.rs/2Jd6VET

(Reporting by Jessica Jaganathan; Editing by Gavin Maguire and Joseph Radford)Baby Reunites With Deputy Who Delivered Him on Side of Road in Florida

A Florida deputy reunited with a baby boy he helped deliver on the side of the road.

Deputy James Breslin, of the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, was on his way to work earlier this month when a driver pulled up to his patrol car with a desperate look on his face.

"My wife's giving birth and the baby's head is sticking out," Breslin recalled the man telling him.

Ghita Sollazzo was in the vehicle, minutes away from giving birth, and Breslin was there to catch the newborn. While on the phone with paramedics, he helped check the baby boy, Charlie, to make sure he was doing fine.

It was the most crazy, beautiful experience, Breslin said.

Sollazzo said she doesnt know what she and her husband would have done if not for Breslin. In dashcam footage captured of the birth, Sollazzo can be heard screaming and her husband, Jack, appears slightly panicked.

I could tell it was an overwhelming situation but he was much needed," Sollazzo said.

Breslin initially met up with the new mom, father, and baby Charlie at the hospital. On Friday, the family reunited once again.

"I just feel so lucky to have been a part of this because I've never had a role in such an amazing event," Breslin said, fighting back tears.

Sollazzo said Breslin is now a member of the family. He's been dubbed "uncle Jimmy"

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Her Iraqi lawyer, Nasureddin Madlul Abd, urged the court to acquit Boughedir, describing her spouse as a "jailkeeper not a husband" who had "forced" her to join him in Iraq. Her French defence team -- William Bourdon, Martin Pradel and Vincent Brengarth -- said they were "relieved" she had been spared the death penalty, but vowed to appeal the verdict. In Paris, the foreign ministry said France respected sovereign Iraqi justice. "We note that the judicial procedure is not over," the ministry told AFP. "France will continue to respect the sovereignty of Iraqi jurisdiction and the independent judicial proceedings." Boughedir, who wore a black dress and headscarf, arrived in the courtroom carrying her youngest daughter in her arms. Her three other children are now back in France. Hers is the latest in a series of verdicts doled out to foreigners who flocked to join IS in its self-declared "caliphate" after the jihadist group seized the northern third of Iraq and swathes of Syria in 2014. On May 22, an Iraqi court sentenced Belgian jihadist Tarik Jadaoun, also known as Abu Hamza al-Beljiki, to death by hanging -- although he pleaded not guilty to a range of terror charges. Jadaoun had earned the moniker "the new Abaaoud", after his compatriot Abdelhamid Abaaoud, one of the organisers of November 2015 attacks in Paris. - 'Unacceptable interference' - Even before she was sentenced, Boughedir's case sparked anger from her defence team, who had accused French authorities of interfering. On Thursday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Boughedir was a "Daesh (IS) terrorist who fought against Iraq" and should be tried on Iraqi soil. Her French lawyers sent a letter of protest to Le Drian, seen by AFP, in which they denounced "pressure on the Iraqi judicial system" and "unacceptable interference". Bourdon on Sunday condemned the verdict, saying it had been influenced by "extra-judicial reasons". During the hearing, which lasted about one hour, the judge asked Boughedir -- who was arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul -- to explain why and under what circumstances she had arrived in Iraq. He then declared that "the proof that has been gathered is enough to condemn the criminal" to a life sentence. Bourdon said Le Drian wanted his client to be tried in Iraq to "ensure that she won't be heading back home to France any time soon", as part of efforts to prevent the return of jihadists. Boughedir's family and her defence team want her to face a court in France, Bourdon said. After being sentenced in February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry, she was set to be deported home. But upon re-examining her file, an Iraqi court said she had "knowingly" followed her husband to Iraq to join IS. - Second Frenchwoman sentenced - Boughedir's husband is believed to have been killed during operations by US-led coalition-backed Iraqi forces to regain control of Mosul, Iraq's second city and the jihadists' former stronghold. On Sunday she told the court that the man she had been married to for five years had disappeared one day, walking out and saying he was going out "to look for water". Since then, she said, she had received no information about his fate or his whereabouts. Boughedir is the second French citizen sentenced to life in prison by an Iraqi court for belonging to IS, after Djamila Boutoutaou, 29, in April. Boutoutaou also said she had been tricked by her husband. Thousands of foreign fighters from across the world flocked to the black banner of the jihadists after the group seized swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014. 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The price of fuel has risen on five occasions since the beginning of the year, while electricity bills have shot up 55 percent since February. The IMF-backed measures have sparked some of the biggest economic protests in five years. Overnight, protesters outside Prime Minister Hani Mulki's office shouted slogans including "the ones raising prices want to burn the country" and "this Jordan is our Jordan, Mulki should leave". - 'Snowball' - Demonstrators tussled with security forces and some fainted, but others smoked water pipes and one sat on the pavement and played the Arabian lute, or oud. In another part of the city, security forces used tear gas to prevent hundreds of demonstrators from joining the rally near Mulki's office, Jordanian news websites reported. "Women have started looking in rubbish bins to find food for their children, and every day we're hit by price hikes and new taxes," said one protester. Bank employee Mohammad Shalabiya, 28, said demonstrators wanted "to tell the government that the citizen's income isn't suitable for this kind of law and that we have a right to demonstrate". Lina Rsheidat, 35, a housewife with a red keffiyeh scarf around her neck, said the proposed law was "unjust" and would "harm the Jordanian people". According to official estimates, 18.5 percent of the population is unemployed, while 20 percent are on the brink of poverty. The Economist Intelligence Unit earlier this year ranked Jordan's capital as one of the most expensive in the Arab world. "The popular movement... has surprised the government," Adel Mahmoud, a Jordanian political analyst, told AFP. Discontent could "snowball... triggering a domestic crisis", he said, adding that he expected protests to continue until demands are met. - Struggling economy - Jordan, a key US ally, has largely avoided the unrest witnessed by other countries in the region since the Arab Spring revolts broke out in 2011, although protests did flare late that year after the government cut fuel subsidies. But the country has long played host to refugees from neighbouring Iraq, and according to government figures, more than one million people have fled to Jordan from Syria's devastating seven-year war, further straining its struggling economy. Amman has repeatedly urged international donors to provide extra funds to help it host them. On Saturday Mulki met with trade union representatives who demanded the income tax law be revoked, but they failed to reach an agreement. The head of Jordan's federation of unions, Ali Obus, demanded the state "maintain its independence and not bow to IMF demands". King Abdullah II on Saturday called on parliament to lead a "comprehensive and reasonable national dialogue" on the new tax law. "It would not be fair that the citizen alone bears the burden of financial reforms," he told officials. The IMF says the loan aims at slashing Jordan's public debt from about 94 percent of GDP to 77 percent by 2021, through "reforms to bolster economic growth and gradual fiscal consolidation", according to its website.FILE PHOTO - Jordan's Prime Minister Hani Mulki speaks to the media after the swearing-in ceremony for the new cabinet at the Royal Palace in Amman, Jordan, June 1, 2016. REUTERS/Muhammad Hamed/File Photo

By Suleiman Al-Khalidi

AMMAN (Reuters) - Jordanian Prime Minister Hani Mulki refused to scrap an IMF-backed tax reform bill on Saturday that has sparked protests over price hikes, saying it was up to parliament to decide its fate.

Several thousand protesters staged vigils outside the cabinet office for two consecutive nights this week over the draft legislation, chanting anti-government slogans and urging King Abdullah to sack the prime minister.

"Sending the draft law does not mean parliament will agree to it or even agree on its articles. Parliament is its own master," Mulki told reporters after meeting trade union leaders and lawmakers.

Unions say the tax bill, which is part of broader austerity measures recommended by the International Monetary Fund, will worsen a decline in living standards.

Earlier this year, a general sales tax was hiked and a subsidy on bread was scrapped as part of a three-year plan that aims to cut the Arab nation's $37 billion debt -- equivalent to 95 percent of gross domestic product.

The government says it needs the funds for public services and argues that tax reforms reduce social disparities by placing a heavier burden on high earners and leaving lower-paid state workers relatively unscathed.

Mulki said the IMF had completed its latest mission to the country on Thursday and hoped the kingdom would conclude by mid-2019 most of the reforms crucial to getting the economy "back on track".

WIDENING THE GAP

But critics say the measures will hurt the poor and accuse politicians of squandering public funds and corruption.

Parliament speaker Atef Tarawneh said more than 80 deputies, a majority of the 130-member assembly, wanted the government to withdraw the tax bill.

"We won't submit to the dictates of the IMF," Tarawneh said after meeting Mulki, local media reported.

Unions representing state and private sector employees said the government had caved in to IMF demands and was widening the gap between rich and poor in the nation of 8 million people that hosts hundreds of thousands of refugees from Syria's conflict.

Story continues

The Professional Unions Association, which had threatened new strikes before meeting with Mulki on Saturday said it would be meeting soon to decide on the next steps.

"We came with a request to withdraw the law and we heard something else," Ali al Abous, the head of the association said.

Jordan's economy has struggled to grow under chronic deficits as private foreign capital and aid flows have slipped

There have been scattered protests in provincial towns, prompting police in some places to use teargas. In Maan, a town in the south, protesters burnt tyres to block highways and some scuffled with police, witnesses said.

(Editing by Edmund Blair and Helen Popper)A woman walks near a picture of Syrian President Bashar al Assad in Damascus A woman walks near a picture of Syrian President Bashar al Assad in Damascus, Syria April 15, 2018. REUTERS/Ali Hashisho/Files

By Josh Smith

SEOUL (Reuters) - Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said he plans to visit North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, North Korean state media reported on Sunday, potentially the first meeting between Kim and another head of state in Pyongyang.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet HE Kim Jong Un," Assad said on May 30, North Korea's KCNA news agency reported, using the initials of the country's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

There was no immediate comment from the Syrian presidents office.

Assad reportedly made the remarks as he received the credentials of North Korean Ambassador Mun Jong Nam.

Pyongyang and Damascus maintain good relations, and United Nations monitors have accused North Korea of cooperating with Syria on chemical weapons, a charge the North denies.

Both countries have faced international isolation, North Korea over its nuclear weapons programme, and Syria over its tactics during a bloody civil war.

Since the beginning of the year, however, North Korea's Kim has launched a flurry of diplomatic meetings with leaders in China and South Korea, and is scheduled to hold a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Singapore on June 12.

Since taking power in 2011, Kim has not publicly met with another head of state in North Korea.

"The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political caliber and wise leadership of HE Kim Jong Un," Assad said, according to KCNA. "I am sure that he will achieve the final victory and realize the reunification of Korea without fail."

According to South Korea's foreign ministry, North Korea established diplomatic relations with Syria in 1966, opening its embassy in Damascus. Syria opened its mission in Pyongyang in 1969.

Close military cooperation between the two countries began when North Korea sent some 530 troops including pilots, tank drivers and missile personnel to Syria during the Arab-Israeli war in October 1973.

"The Syrian government will as ever fully support all policies and measures of the DPRK leadership and invariably strengthen and develop the friendly ties with the DPRK," Assad said, as quoted by KCNA.

(Additional reporting by Hyonhee Shin in Seoul and Ellen Francis in Beirut, editing by Larry King)FILE PHOTO: Trump economic adviser Larry Kudlow speaks at the White House in Washington FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Donald Trump's economic adviser Larry Kudlow is interviewed at the White House in Washington, DC, U.S., April 6, 2018. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque/File Photo

By Susan Cornwell

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Trade frictions between the United States and Canada are a "family quarrel," President Donald Trump's economic adviser said on Sunday, brushing aside concerns expressed by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as an overreaction.

The Trump administration said on Thursday it was moving ahead with tariffs on aluminum and steel imports from Canada, Mexico and the European Union, ending a two-month exemption and potentially setting the stage for a trade war with some of America's top allies.

Trudeau responded on Thursday by calling the tariffs an affront to the longstanding security partnership between Canada and the United States, and Canada announced retaliatory steps.

Trudeau, in an interview aired on Sunday by NBC's "Meet the Press", said it was "insulting" to hear the U.S. claim that Canadian steel and aluminum posed a national security threat.

"I think he's overreacting," White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said of Trudeau on the "Fox News Sunday" program.

Kudlow said steel and aluminum tariffs on U.S. allies "may go on for a while" or "they may not," because the matter is subject to negotiation.

Trump has been critical of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with Canada and Mexico, saying it has harmed the United States economically. The three countries are engaged in renegotiation talks.

Trump said on Friday he might prefer to end NAFTA in favor of separate bilateral agreements with the two U.S. neighbors.

Trudeau is hosting a June 8-9 summit of Group of Seven leaders, including Trump, in the Quebec region of Charlevoix.

Kudlow said Trump had been responding to "several decades of trade abuses" with the tariffs, but noted that the White House announcement said the United States still would welcome good-faith negotiations.

"And that's why I regard this as more of a family quarrel. This is a trade dispute, if you will. It can be solved if people work together," Kudlow said. "To say that it is an attack on Canada is not right."

Story continues

In the NBC interview, Trudeau said Canada would be "lodging complaints against these unfair trade practices." Canada said on Thursday it will impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports, and challenge the U.S. tariffs under NAFTA and the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Trudeau said Canada won't be at the table for NAFTA talks if the United States insists on a five-year "sunset" clause, adding that "makes no sense."

"You don't sign a trade deal that automatically expires every five years."

(Reporting by Susan Cornwell; Editing by Will Dunham and Bill Berkrot)2018 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming Digest #22

Posted on 3 June 2018 by John Hartz

Story of the Week... Editorial of the Week... Toon of the Week... Quote of the Week... SkS in the News... Scholarly Paper of Note... Coming Soon on SkS... Climate Feedback Reviews... SkS Week in Review... Poster of the Week...

Story of the Week...

Gov. Brown says fallout from Trump quitting Paris accord is 'far more serious than anyone is saying'

California Gov. Jerry Brown addresses the University of California Carbon and Climate Neutrality Summit in San Diego. (Howard Lipin / San Diego Union-Tribune)

His promised coal renaissance sputtered. Rollbacks of environmental protections are tangled in court. Even automakers arent on board for his push toward heavier-polluting cars.

But even so, a year after President Trump pulled out of the landmark Paris accord on climate change, the struggle to contain global warming has grown considerably more complicated without the prodding and encouragement once provided by the U.S. government.

And though many in the climate movement hope progress toward cutting emissions can continue despite Trumps retreat, there are growing doubts about reaching the Paris agreements goal of limiting global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, if Washington does not re-engage soon.

In an interview, Gov. Jerry Brown acknowledged the hope felt by many climate activists because of efforts from states like his and by private companies. But he also said the world is only just beginning to feel the environmental harm inflicted by the Trump administration.

Gov. Brown says fallout from Trump quitting Paris accord is 'far more serious than anyone is saying' by Evan Halper, Los Angeles Times, June 1, 2018

Editorial of the Week...

Hope in the Era of Trumps Climate Foolishness

Credit: Illustration by Matthieu Bourel; Photograph by Getty Images

Concluding paragraph...

In an ideal world, Americans would have a federal government that, as it has in the past, provides investment in new technologies, in research and development and in energy infrastructure. Instead, we are saddled with an administration that is preparing to force power companies to keep dirty and inefficient coal-burning power plants operating on the pretext that they are needed to protect national security. Until that changes, the voices of all those governors, mayors, corporate leaders and others who, after Mr. Trumps withdrawal from the Paris agreement, proclaimed, We AreStill In, deserve praise and support.

Hope in the Era of Trumps Climate Foolishness, Editorial Board, New York Times, June 1, 2018

Toon of the Week...

Quote of the Week...

He has set in motion initiatives that will cause damage, (CA Gov Jerry) Brown said, comparing the planet under Trumps climate policies to a person who has just fallen from the top of the Empire State Building. You are falling down four stories, but have 80 to go, he said. Maybe you are not damaged yet, but it is certain you will die.

The governor said his overriding concern is that global progress has stalled. This is real, Brown said. It is far more serious than anybody is saying.

Gov. Brown says fallout from Trump quitting Paris accord is 'far more serious than anyone is saying' by Evan Halper, Los Angeles Times, June 1, 2018

SkS in the News...

Michael Svoboda concludes his article, Truthsquading: Books and reports on the denial and obstruction of climate science (Yale Climate Connections, May 31, 2018) with the following:

Three Reports from Skeptical Science A pivotal figure in the effort to counter global warming skepticism is John Cook, who started the Skeptical Science website in 2007, while still a student at the University of Queensland in Australia. Since then Cook has (co)authored reports to alert readers to the manufactured arguments theyre likely to encounter when discussing climate change in public. Two  The Scientific Guide to Global Warming Skepticsm (2010) and The Debunking Handbook (2011)  can be downloaded from the Skeptical Science website. The third, The Consensus Handbook (2018), is available from the Center for Climate Change Communication at George Mason University, where John Cook now works as a research assistant professor.

Scholarly Paper of Note...

The underlying premise of this paper is that repetition of a narrow narrative that focuses exclusively on the impacts of climate change leaves the public with an overall sense of powerlessness. The paper focuses on five years of national media coverage of climate change in the U.S. Arctic, specifically stories about communities facing coastal erosion and relocation, to argue for journalism that provides a more representative view of the challenges posed by a warming climate. Such reporting would also include responses and innovations, and increase pressure on policymakers to act, rather than offering excuses for inaction.

Doom and Gloom: The Role of the Media in Public Disengagement on Climate Change by Elizabeth Arnold*, Harvard Kennedy School, May 29, 2018

*Joan Shorenstein Fellow, Spring 2018, and Associate Professor of Journalism, University of Alaska

Coming Soon on SkS...

The attacks against solar power and EVs are ramping up (Dana)

(Dana) New Video: Hot Ocean, Hurricanes, Houston, and Harvey (greenman)

(greenman) Climate focused blogs around the world (BaerbelW)

(BaerbelW) Guest Post (John Abraham)

(John Abraham) New research this week (Ari)

(Ari) 2018 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #23 (John Hartz)

(John Hartz) 2018 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming Digest #23 (John Hartz)

Climate Feedback Reviews...

In a Warming West, the Rio Grande Is Drying Up

Climate Feedback asked a team of scientists to review the article, In a Warming West, the Rio Grande Is Drying Up by Henry Fountain, Climate, New York Times, May 24, 2018

Two scientists analyzed the article and estimate its overall scientific credibility to be 'high'.

A majority of reviewers tagged the article as: Sound reasoning

Review Summary

This article in The New York Times discusses water supply issues along the Rio Grande in New Mexico, and the projected impacts of climate change.

Scientists who reviewed the article generally found it to be an accurate description of research on this topic. However, they note that its important to remember that precipitation in this region can naturally vary on timescales longer than just one year to the next. Even changes from one decade to the next should be considered carefully in the context of variabilityand water supply risks depend on both human-caused trends and that natural variability.

New York Times story accurately describes Rio Grandes climate context, Edited by Scott Johnson, Climate Feedback, May 31, 2018

SkS Week in Review...

Poster of the Week...Its wildly unfair to judge comedy with the benefit of historical hindsight. So lets do it! Here are Saturday Night Lives four debate sketches from the election of 2016, ranked in order of how excruciatingly painful they are to watch two years into the presidency of Donald Trump. Get ready to cringe!

The Vice-Presidential Debate

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Easily the least painful of Saturday Night Lives 2016 presidential debate sketches, the shows take on the vice-presidential debate features Mikey Days signature character, a feckless fictional candidate named Tim Kaine. The idea that Hillary Clinton would bet the countrys future on someone so uninspiringespecially when Trump was the alternativeis almost hilarious enough to distract from the pain of watching Kate McKinnons Hillary prematurely celebrate her victory after the leak of the Access Hollywood tape.

The Final Debate

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Wow, we forgot Tom Hanks was in one of these! Seeing good ol Tom Hanks and his likeable face is such an essentially comforting and calming experience that it blunts some of the pain of remembering how naive we all were in October of 2016, making this the second least-painful presidential debate sketch. Remember A League of Their Own? The Terminal? That David S. Pumpkins sketch we all thought was so funny because we had no idea that Donald Trump would soon be running the country? Things were good, once. Oh, and remember when Kate McKinnons Hillary Clinton would just sort of slyly smile at the camera, like the whole election was an amazing spectacle being put on for our amusement, and she couldnt believe her good luck in running against Donald Trump? Were we ever so young?

The Town Hall Debate

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It sure seemed like the Access Hollywood tape would be the end of ol Donny Trump huh? Also, remember Ken Bone? It was so funny how he knew Donald fucking Trump was on the ballot but still couldnt made up his mind! And now it seems like an utterly damning indictment of the entire country that we found Bones ignorance charming, even for a second!

The First Presidential Debate

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Somehow, this manages to be the most painful of Saturday Night Lives 2016 presidential debate sketches to watch today, despite coming out before the Access Hollywood tapes became the shows go-to Trump joke. For one thing, the joke about Hillary Clintons Trumped-up trickle-down economics line is a painful reminder that her campaigns messaging was so inept that she lost to Donald Trump. But what gives this sketch its unique needles-in-the-eyeballs quality is its reminder that even before the Access Hollywood tape, we all treated the idea that Donald Trump could win the presidency like it was the funniest thing in the world. Oops!The co-leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany nationalist party dismissed the importance of the years the country suffered Nazi rule as nothing but a speck of bird poop in Germanys history. Politicians from across the spectrum came out in full force to condemn the statement, saying it shows the true face of the AfD.

At a gathering of the anti-immigrant partys youth movement, Alexander Gauland said that while Germans do have to take responsibility for the 12 years of Nazi leadership, he argued it was not worth spending too much time on the issue. We have a glorious history and it, dear friends, lasted longer than those blasted 12 years, he said. Hitler and the Nazis are just a speck of bird poop in more than 1,000 years of successful German history. Although the AP translates Gaulands statement as bird poop, Reuters and DPA both use the less euphemistic bird shit.

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50 Mio. Kriegsopfer, Holocaust und totaler Krieg fur AfD und Gauland nur ein "Vogelschiss"! So sieht die Partei hinter burgerlicher Maske aus. https://t.co/5WFftKiQ8o  A. Kramp-Karrenbauer (@akk) June 2, 2018

The secretary general of the leading Christian Democratic Party, which is led by Chancellor Angela Merkel, was one of the many to condemn the statement. Fifty million victims of war, the Holocaust and all-out war are for the AfD and Gauland just bird shit. This is what the party looks like behind its civic mask, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer wrote on Twitter. Lars Klingbeil, general secretary of the Social Democrats, blasted Gauland for trivializing the era in history. It is a disgrace that such characters sit in parliament, he said. Katrin Goring-Eckardt of the Green Party, meanwhile, said the statement showed the importance of why its important to push back against a minority that is filled with hate.

The meteoric rise of the AfD has raised concerns because it can no longer be described as a fringe party considering it is the third-largest in parliament and now the largest opposition party.President Donald Trumps lead attorney Rudy Giuliani said that Trump likely could pardon himself if he wanted to, although he emphasized thats not something that is in the cards, at least for now. Hes not, but he probably does, Giuliani said on ABCs This Week. He has no intention of pardoning himself, but he probably does. It doesnt say he cant. Giuliani then chuckled a bit and called it a really interesting constitutional argument. The former New York City mayor said he would have to run it by experts but he seems to be confident he knows what the answer would be. It would be an open question, he said. I think it would probably get answered by, gosh, thats what the Constitution says.

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JUST IN: Does Pres. Trump have the power to pardon himself?



"He's not, but he probably does," Rudy Giuliani tells @GStephanopoulos. "He has no intention of pardoning himself, but that doesn't say he can't." https://t.co/IEUEWnjQqe #ThisWeek pic.twitter.com/IE1AocigYl  This Week (@ThisWeekABC) June 3, 2018

Giulianis answer illustrates just how broad Trumps team is arguing the presidents powers are to push back against Special Counsel Robert Muellers probe. In a letter published Saturday by the New York Times, Trumps lawyers argued that the president couldnt have possibly obstructed justice because he has power over all federal investigations. In the Jan. 29 letter, Trumps lawyers said that the Constitution gives the president the power to terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.

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Giuliani did go on to recognize that a self-pardon wouldnt exactly be an easy proposition. I think the political ramifications of that would be tough, he said. Pardoning other people is one thing. Pardoning yourself is another. Other presidents have pardoned people in circumstances like this, both in their administration and sometimes the next president even of a different party will come along and pardon.

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At least some of Trumps Republican allies are warning the president shouldnt even think of the possibility. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy made it clear Sunday that he doesnt think the president should pardon himself. The president is not saying he is going to pardon himself. The president never said he pardoned himself, McCarthy told CNNs State of the Union. I dont think a president should pardon themselves.

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Some are warning the potential consequences of a self-pardon could be disastrous for the president. Former US attorney Preet Bharara said Sunday that not only would it be outrageous for a sitting president to pardon himself, it would also likely mark the end of his presidency. If the President decided he was going to pardon himself, I think thats almost self-executing impeachment, Bharara said on CNNs State of the Union. Whether or not there is a minor legal argument that some law professor somewhere in a legal journal can make that the president can pardon, thats not what the framers could have intended. Thats not what the American people, I think, would be able to stand for.

AdvertisementWhen the New York Times first revealed the bombshell 20-page memo President Donald Trumps legal team sent to Special Counsel Robert Mueller earlier this year, attention immediately focused on the broad assertions of presidential power. In the letter, the lawyers essentially argued that the president cant by definition obstruct justice, a novel and broad interpretation of presidential powers. A closer reading of the memo though also revealed that the presidents attorneys admit that Trump dictated the first misleading statement about the now-infamous Trump Tower meeting with Russians. That comes after repeated denials that Trump was involved in crafting the statement, including in congressional testimony by Donald Trump Jr.

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You have received all of the notes, communications and testimony indicating that the President dictated a short but accurate response to the New York Times article on behalf of his son, Donald Trump, Jr., the letter, written by John Dowd and Jay Sekulow, said. His son then followed up by making a full public disclosure regarding the meeting, including his public testimony that there was nothing to the meeting and certainly no evidence of collusion. Although Dowd left the presidents legal team in March, Sekulow is still in the post.

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For the first time, Trumps lawyers say he dictated his sons response to NYT over Russian lawyer meeting. They call the statement short but accurate. https://t.co/NJigLuXPfi  Maggie Haberman (@maggieNYT) June 2, 2018

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The Trump Tower meeting has now become shorthand to refer to the June 2016 sit-down that included Donald Trump Jr., Jared Kushner and then-campaign chairman Paul Manafort with a group of Russians with close ties to the Kremlin, including lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya. The Trump campaign officials were told the Russians had information on Hillary Clinton but Trump Jr. issued a statement saying the meeting was to discuss adoptions. In public statements, both attorney Jay Sekulow and press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders denied Trump had played a part in crafting the statement. CNN compiled a list of the denials, noting that Sekulow had denied Trumps involvement in writing the letter at least four times. Sanders, meanwhile, said that the president certainly didnt dictate the statement, although she did say he offered suggestions like any father would.

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Giuliani on Sunday used the changing explanations to justify why Trump shouldnt sit down with Muellers team. This is the reason you dont let the President testify, Giuliani said Sunday during an appearance on ABCs This Week. Our recollection keeps changing, or were not even asked a question and somebody makes an assumptionI think thats what happened here.

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Asked about shifting explanations for statement on Trump Tower meeting, Rudy Giuliani tells @GStephanopoulos:



"This is the reason you don't let the president testify. Our recollection keeps changing, or we're not even asked a question and somebody makes an assumption." pic.twitter.com/DLQsGbfGhA  This Week (@ThisWeekABC) June 3, 2018

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As Mother Jones David Corn explains, beyond what it says about Trump and his legal team, the letter from his lawyers seems to contradict what Trump Jr. told congress in a private session by the Senate Judiciary Committee last year. Corn points out the following exchange in the recently released transcript of the testimony by the presidents son:

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Q. The Washington Post has since reported that your father was involved in drafting your July 8th statement. Is that correct? A. I dont know. I never spoke to my father about it. Q. Do you know who did draft that statement? A. Well, there were numerous statements drafted with counsel and other people were involved and, you know, opined. Q. To the best of your knowledge, did the President provide any edits to the statement or other input A. He may have commented through Hope Hicks. Q. And do you know if his comments provided through Hope Hicks were incorporated into the final statement? A. I believe some may have been, but this was an effort through lots of people, mostly counsel. Q. Did you ask him to provide any assistance with the statement? A. No. She asked if I wanted to actually speak to him, and I chose not to because I didnt want to bring him into something that he had nothing to do with.

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Corn points out what seems to be the natural conclusion when comparing the letter from Trumps lawyers and Trump. Jr.s statements:

Trump Jr.s remarks to the committee conveyed an inaccurate impression and can be seen as an attempt to provide cover for his pop. They might even be considered false statements. By the way, its a crime to lie to Congress.

Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), a member of the House intelligence committee, pointed out this discrepancy on Twitter. Donald Trump is lying or Donald Trump, Jr. lied during the House Intel investigation, he wrote.

Donald Trump is lying or Donald Trump, Jr. lied during the House Intel investigation. https://t.co/fcTquT7jIy  Joaquin Castro (@JoaquinCastrotx) June 2, 2018

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Former U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara also raised questions about these contradictory statements and said it could all add up to legal trouble for Trump and his aides. You have the lawyer of the president of the United States, Jay Sekulow  and, on separate occasions, you have had Rudy Giuliani do this  basically lie to the American people repeatedly, Bharara said.

And if you are going to take the position, like they do in the sweeping letter about executive authority, that the president is in a special position in various ways, then I think the lawyers to the president have a special responsibility not to come on television and lie.

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AdvertisementA short-fin male pilot whale died in Southern Thailand after a five-day effort to save the mammal failed. An autopsy found the whale had more than 80 pieces of plastic trash in its stomach, weighing some 17 pounds. The whale was first seen on May 28 as locals quickly saw it wasnt acting quite right. A team of veterinarians tried to save it but on Friday the whale spit out five plastic bags and later died. This plastic rubbish made the whale sick and unable to hunt for food, Thailands Marine and Coastal Resources Department said on its website. Experts say the whale likely thought plastic bags were food.

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A veterinary surgeon who took part in the rescue operation said it was the worst case of its kind she had ever seen. We found a lot of plastic bags in the stomach, I think around 85 plastic bags, Watchara Sakornwimon told Sky News. Somehow they were from another country, they were not from only Thailand. Although Sakornwimon said she had seen similar cases, this one was much more dire than any others. I saw it, but the [amount of plastic] is not like this, she said, noting that she once found a whale with a kilogram of plastic bags, or the equivalent of 2.2 pounds.

The whales death by plastic comes at a time when governments around the world are trying to raise awareness about the danger of plastic to the environment. A recent study by the British government found that if nothing is done the amount of plastic littering the worlds ocean will triple within a decade.Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is not known for taking criticism of his government well and Sunday was no exception when he blasted a United Nations human rights expert who had warned about judicial integrity in the country. Tell him not to interfere with the affairs of my country, Duterte said when asked about the criticism by Diego Garcia-Sayan, a U.N. special rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers. He can go to hell.

Duterte noted that Garcia-Sayan is not a special person and the strongman president added that I do not recognize his rapporteur title. Dutertes comments came days after Garcia-Sayan raised alarm with reporters about the ouster of Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. The Philippine Supreme Court voted last month to oust Sereno from her post after Duterte had called her an enemy because she voted against several of the presidents proposals. Garcia-Sayan said Serenos ouster sent a chilling message to other members of the judiciary about the dangers of going against Dutertes wishes.

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For a rapporteur of the U.N. on independence of justice to keep silent when a chief justice in any country in the world, even in my country, would be dismissed in such way is impossible, and it will be immoral to stay silent, Garcia-Sayan, a former justice and foreign minister of Peru, said. Dutertes office has insisted that the president had nothing to do with Serenos ouster.

This isnt the first time Duterte has told a foreign official to go to hell. In 2016, Duterte had the same wish for then-President Barack Obama. Instead of helping us, the first to hit was the State Department. So you can go to hell, Mr Obama, you can go to hell, Duterte said as he complained that rather than helping the Philippines tackle its drug problem the United States had chosen to criticize the high death toll.The White House is working on trying to set up a summit between President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The Wall Street Journal, which reported on the preliminary plans, notes that the meeting would bring to the international stage one of the worlds most enigmatic political relationships. Why would the leaders need a sitdown? To resolve longstanding differences, including on Syria, Ukraine, and nuclear weapons, according to the paper.

Jon Huntsman, the U.S. ambassador to Russia, has been working behind the scenes in Washington to try to turn the meeting into a reality. This has been an ongoing project of Ambassador Huntsman, stretching back months, of getting a formal meeting between Putin and Trump, the papers source said.

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Trump and Putin met twice in 2017 on the sidelines of international meetings and Trump invited Putin to visit the White House during a March phone call. Many have questioned Trumps seeming eagerness to get along well with Putin, noting, for example, how he went against his advisers and congratulated the Russian leader on his election victory when the two spoke on the phone three months ago. Getting along with Russia (and others) is a good thing, not a bad thing, Trump tweeted after the call.

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I called President Putin of Russia to congratulate him on his election victory (in past, Obama called him also). The Fake News Media is crazed because they wanted me to excoriate him. They are wrong! Getting along with Russia (and others) is a good thing, not a bad thing.......  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 21, 2018

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Any meeting between the leaders would come at a time when Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election continues. Of course there are discussions of the political perception, an official told the Journal about the summit taking place while Muellers probe continues.

Some experts immediately questioned what possible good could come from a meeting between Trump and Putin. Things are so far apart between the US and Russia right now that this meeting between Trump and Putin shouldnt even be happening in the first place. The US has nothing to gain here and everything to lose, said Richard Kauzlarich, a former deputy assistant secretary of state who is a Russian policy expert. Kauzlarich noted that Putin has been seething about not being able to establish a closer relationship with Trump. That this meeting is even being considered gives Putin everything and the US nothing, he said.2 Wall Street equities research analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for Purplebricks Group in the last year. There are currently 2 hold ratings for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street equities research analysts is that investors should "hold" Purplebricks Group stock. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in PRPPF, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares.

View analyst ratings for Purplebricks Group or view top-rated stocks.Username: Password: or Register Thread Rating: 4 Vote(s) - 3 Average

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Page: 1 2 3 4 5 Ute Park Wildfire: Update 36,740+ acres 96% contained. U.S. 64 reopens silversides

The bare necessities of life

User ID: 148291

06-03-2018 08:12 PM



Posts: 29,255









Post: #1 Ute Park Wildfire: Update 36,740+ acres 96% contained. U.S. 64 reopens

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CIMARRON, N.M.  The Latest on a wildfire in northern New Mexico (all times local):



11:40 p.m.



State fire officials say residents of a northern New Mexico community are being told to evacuate their homes due to a raging wildfire.





New Mexico State Forestry officials said the order involving Ute Park came late Saturday after the fire doubled in size to about 47 square miles.



The cause of the fire was unknown and there was no containment.



The fire has destroyed 12 to 14 outbuildings at nearby Philmont Scout Ranch.

...

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/06/03/lat...+-+Text%29 Popurri Perez Prado

The Latest: New Mexico community evacuated as fire growsCIMARRON, N.M.  The Latest on a wildfire in northern New Mexico (all times local):11:40 p.m.State fire officials say residents of a northern New Mexico community are being told to evacuate their homes due to a raging wildfire.New Mexico State Forestry officials said the order involving Ute Park came late Saturday after the fire doubled in size to about 47 square miles.The cause of the fire was unknown and there was no containment.The fire has destroyed 12 to 14 outbuildings at nearby Philmont Scout Ranch.... (This post was last modified: 06-12-2018 06:26 PM by silversides .) silversides

The bare necessities of life

User ID: 148291

06-03-2018 08:41 PM



Posts: 29,255









Post: #2 RE: Philmont Scout Ranch is on Fire....





Fire Update: The Ute Park Fire is currently at estimated 31,000 acres and 0% containment. There are 511 personnel on scene fighting this fire including our Philmont Fire Department, other local Fire Departments, neighbors, and State and Federal agencies.

We can report that the structures at Ponil, Hunting Lodge, Cimarroncito, and Clarks Fork have survived the fire that passed through those areas.

We have gotten official word that base camp is safe and staff will be returning back to base this morning.



Program and Unit information - as we assess the situation we will be working with our leadership and local authorities to determine the extent of program we can deliver and when. Please stand by for an update on this by Monday morning.



Our primary focus remains the safety of our team and the management of the fire. We appreciate your patience as we work through this rapidly changing situation.



From today on we will be posting updates each day prior to noon at PhilmontScoutRanch.org and scouting newsroom. We will post photos periodically on the Philmont Facebook. Please look at these sites for information from us.



...



http://www.philmontscoutranch.org/About/...ation.aspx Ute Park Fire Update: June 3, 2018 at 9:30 a.m.Fire Update: The Ute Park Fire is currently at estimated 31,000 acres and 0% containment. There are 511 personnel on scene fighting this fire including our Philmont Fire Department, other local Fire Departments, neighbors, and State and Federal agencies.We can report that the structures at Ponil, Hunting Lodge, Cimarroncito, and Clarks Fork have survived the fire that passed through those areas.We have gotten official word that base camp is safe and staff will be returning back to base this morning.Program and Unit information - as we assess the situation we will be working with our leadership and local authorities to determine the extent of program we can deliver and when. Please stand by for an update on this by Monday morning.Our primary focus remains the safety of our team and the management of the fire. We appreciate your patience as we work through this rapidly changing situation.From today on we will be posting updates each day prior to noon at PhilmontScoutRanch.org and scouting newsroom. We will post photos periodically on the Philmont Facebook. Please look at these sites for information from us.... Popurri Perez Prado

silversides

The bare necessities of life

User ID: 148291

06-03-2018 09:01 PM



Posts: 29,255









Post: #3 RE: Philmont Scout Ranch is on Fire....



JUN 3, 2018 @ 12:17 PM 890

Fire Forces Evacuation Of Famous Camp And Village As Wildfire Season Sets In For A Long Stay



Eric Mack , CONTRIBUTOR

I cover science and innovation and products and policies they create.

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.





A 30,000 acre wildfire is now burning through the Philmont Scout Ranch shown here outside Cimarron, New Mexico. Both Philmont and the village have been evacuated. The fire comes after one of the driest winters in memory for northern New Mexico. (AP Photo/Mike Dreyfuss)



We saw the first sign of the looming catastrophe that is now bearing down on a beloved small town nestled where the plains meet the Rockies months ago here in the nearby Sangre de Cristo mountains.



As of Sunday, Cimarron, New Mexico is a ghost town with mandatory evacuations in place thanks to the 30,000 acre wildfire sending plumes of choking smoke into skies that have been clear and blue for much of this spring so far. Ash falls on the deserted streets rather than the much-needed rain that might have prevented the wildfire, which sparked to life early Thursday in the forest to the west of town.



But really, we knew it would have taken biblical April and May showers to prevent this from happening. Instead, we've had weeks of winds. Nerve-wracking, moisture-sucking gusts whipping down the mountains and across the already crispy plains.

...

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ericmack/20...e01a8b4402 Science #WhoaScienceJUN 3, 2018 @ 12:17 PM 890Fire Forces Evacuation Of Famous Camp And Village As Wildfire Season Sets In For A Long StayEric Mack , CONTRIBUTORI cover science and innovation and products and policies they create.Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.A 30,000 acre wildfire is now burning through the Philmont Scout Ranch shown here outside Cimarron, New Mexico. Both Philmont and the village have been evacuated. The fire comes after one of the driest winters in memory for northern New Mexico. (AP Photo/Mike Dreyfuss)We saw the first sign of the looming catastrophe that is now bearing down on a beloved small town nestled where the plains meet the Rockies months ago here in the nearby Sangre de Cristo mountains.As of Sunday, Cimarron, New Mexico is a ghost town with mandatory evacuations in place thanks to the 30,000 acre wildfire sending plumes of choking smoke into skies that have been clear and blue for much of this spring so far. Ash falls on the deserted streets rather than the much-needed rain that might have prevented the wildfire, which sparked to life early Thursday in the forest to the west of town.But really, we knew it would have taken biblical April and May showers to prevent this from happening. Instead, we've had weeks of winds. Nerve-wracking, moisture-sucking gusts whipping down the mountains and across the already crispy plains.... Popurri Perez Prado

silversides

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06-03-2018 09:10 PM



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Post: #4 RE: Philmont Scout Ranch is on Fire....











https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VI3tF62goPQ New Mexico Wildfire Has Grown To More Than 27000 Acres Popurri Perez Prado

silversides

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06-03-2018 09:13 PM



Posts: 29,255









Post: #5 RE: Philmont Scout Ranch is on Fire....











https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Af8B1OKFlS4 Thousands of acres ablaze in Colorado, New Mexico Popurri Perez Prado

LoP Guest

lop guest

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06-03-2018 09:22 PM











Post: #6 RE: 31,000 + Acres ablaze in Colorado, New Mexico

...and so it begins. LoP Guest

lop guest

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06-03-2018 09:24 PM











Post: #7 RE: 31,000 + Acres ablaze in Colorado, New Mexico







X LoP Guest

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06-03-2018 09:25 PM











Post: #8 RE: 31,000 + Acres ablaze in Colorado, New Mexico





silversides

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06-03-2018 09:37 PM



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Post: #9 RE: 31,000 + Acres ablaze in Colorado, New Mexico











https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ze24R-ouyCA Men narrowly escape Ute Park fire in northern New Mexico Popurri Perez Prado

1nf1del

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06-03-2018 11:18 PM











Post: #10 RE: Massive Wild Fires in Colorado & New Mexico

silversides Wrote: (06-03-2018 08:41 PM) Ute Park Fire Update: June 3, 2018 at 9:30 a.m.



Fire Update: The Ute Park Fire is currently at estimated 31,000 acres and 0% containment. There are 511 personnel on scene fighting this fire including our Philmont Fire Department, other local Fire Departments, neighbors, and State and Federal agencies.

We can report that the structures at Ponil, Hunting Lodge, Cimarroncito, and Clarks Fork have survived the fire that passed through those areas.

We have gotten official word that base camp is safe and staff will be returning back to base this morning.



Program and Unit information - as we assess the situation we will be working with our leadership and local authorities to determine the extent of program we can deliver and when. Please stand by for an update on this by Monday morning.



Our primary focus remains the safety of our team and the management of the fire. We appreciate your patience as we work through this rapidly changing situation.



From today on we will be posting updates each day prior to noon at PhilmontScoutRanch.org and scouting newsroom. We will post photos periodically on the Philmont Facebook. Please look at these sites for information from us.



...



http://www.philmontscoutranch.org/About/...ation.aspx

There are wild fires in Colorado every spring, it's particularly bad this year because it's been dry and we didn't get near as much snow pack in the mountains, we haven't even gotten our spring rain yet. There are wild fires in Colorado every spring, it's particularly bad this year because it's been dry and we didn't get near as much snow pack in the mountains, we haven't even gotten our spring rain yet. silversides

The bare necessities of life

User ID: 148291

06-04-2018 12:17 AM



Posts: 29,255









Post: #11 RE: Massive Wild Fires in Colorado & New Mexico

Popurri Perez Prado

LopDude

 Warning level 1200% 

User ID: 439014

06-04-2018 12:21 AM



Posts: 19,814









Post: #12 RE: Massive Wild Fires in Colorado & New Mexico

we've had a rash of small wildfires nearby me...the vegetation is bone dry...everywhere you look. fire season has come early Let us honor the Lop fallen-never forget them Let us honor the Lop fallen-never forget them silversides

The bare necessities of life

User ID: 148291

06-04-2018 12:35 AM



Posts: 29,255









Post: #13 RE: Massive Wild Fires in Colorado & New Mexico



Fire Shaded in Yellow...

This is a day old...



All major buildings are unharmed...

A lot of camping sites, cabins, trails, trees are destroyed in the central part of the camp...



The remote far northern parts of the camp are unharmed.



The southern part of the camp is unharmed.



The Buffalo herd were in the burn area...

Maybe they were moved.







Today ten hours ago..







Looks like about 20 Boy Scout camping areas lost.



About 4 Park service campgrounds lost on that map... Philmont Scout Ranch borders in Blue...Fire Shaded in Yellow...This is a day old...All major buildings are unharmed...A lot of camping sites, cabins, trails, trees are destroyed in the central part of the camp...The remote far northern parts of the camp are unharmed.The southern part of the camp is unharmed.The Buffalo herd were in the burn area...Maybe they were moved.Today ten hours ago..Looks like about 20 Boy Scout camping areas lost.About 4 Park service campgrounds lost on that map... Popurri Perez Prado

(This post was last modified: 06-04-2018 12:47 AM by silversides .) Mr ifnoc

Vote- Asteroid/Comet 2020

User ID: 444342

06-04-2018 12:54 AM



Posts: 5,343









Post: #14 RE: Massive Wild Fires in Colorado & New Mexico

Like I've been saying every year.



Record breaking



Will be explained as Biblical in scale.



Then declaration of a full blow conflagration.



This is going on globally.



The opposite side of the coin is flooding.



Same things will be declared.



Conflagration and Megafloods



These go hand in hand. She had 7 hairs in the middle of her head.

3 were alive and 4 were dead.

AgalinaHagolina

OkatokaWokeatoka

AckatacaWaka was her name.



;) LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 444346

06-04-2018 01:00 AM











Post: #15 RE: Massive Wild Fires in Colorado & New Mexico

every summer you yanks are plagued with bushfires. Advertisement

















Lunaticoutpost.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program , anaffiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.Amazon, the Amazon logo, MYHABIT, and the MYHABIT logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.Don't be a pest to the forum.No profanity in thread-titles or usernamesNo excessive profanity in postsNo Racism, Antisemitism + HateNo calls for violence against anyone..This website exists for fun and discussion only. The reader is responsible for discerning the validity, factuality or implications of information posted here, be it fictional or based on real events. The content of posts on this site, including but not limited to links to other web sites, are the expressed opinion of the original poster and are in no way representative of or endorsed by the owners or administration of this website. The posts on this website are the opinion of the specific author and are not statements of advice, opinion, or factual information on behalf of the owner or administration of LunaticOutPost.Com. The owners or administration of this website can't be hold responsible for content hosted on sites that posters link to in; including, but not limited to, posts, signatures, private messages and such. This site may contain content not suitable for minors and if you feel you might be offended by such content, you should log off immediately.This site may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. Users may make such material available in an effort to advance awareness and understanding of issues relating to civil rights, economics, individual rights, international affairs, liberty, science & technology, etc. We believe this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material. The material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes.In accordance with industry accepted best practices we ask that users limit their copy / paste of copyrighted material to the relevant portions of the article you wish to discuss (no more than 50% of the source material) provide a link back to the original articleIf you are a legal copyright holder or a designated agent for such and you believe a post on this website falls outside the boundaries of "Fair Use" and legitimately infringes on yours or your clients copyright please contact [email protected] This website is owned by :Marco ZwaneveldDrijfriemstraat 522516 XR The HagueNetherlands.I will not rent, sell, share or otherwise disclose your personal information to any third party.We might contact you from time to time regarding your purchases or the services (like forums and announcement lists) you have subscribed to.Some of the 3rd party advertisers on lunaticoutpost.com may use cookiesto track peformance and/or to serve relevant ads.If you wish to read more and/or opt out of such cookies, please visit: http://www.networkadvertising.org/choices/What does it take to create a global network of women in the music industry? Actually only a google group and the will to change things. Meet Andreea Magdalina, the founder of "shesaid.so", whom we interviewed at the International Music Summit (IMS) in Ibiza.

Andreea, whose career started over 6 years ago in London, works at the intersection of tech and music.

The making of

In 2014 Andreea was employed at Mixcloud, a digital audio streaming platform. "I started noticing things, seeing problems; but no one in the music industry would talk about it", she says. Andreea recalls being in meetings with clients and people would assume she was an intern, someone who takes notes; and not a full-fledged member of the tech team, because she was a woman.

So in September of that same year Andreea decided to invite 20 women she had come across through her work, and host her first event to talk about these issues. The women - including a couple of industry veterans - gathered and exchanged, a google group was created, and with it shesaid.so.

Today shesaid.so is a community which connects 2,500 members worldwide and continues to grow. Active membership is developed through events and other projects in the Bay Area, NYC, Paris, Berlin, Mumbai and other key music cities around the world. Altogether the community counts more than half a dozen chapters. And a new one will soon be launched in Italy.

 shesaidso

Aligned values, understanding & support

In a nutshell, shesaid.so aims at :

breaking down gender stereotypes within the music industry by encouraging role models for future generations;

raising awareness of the gender gap and ensuring that women are aware that support is available to them throughout their career;

increasing the profile of women who are making an impact in the music industry;

and increasing the number of women with active roles in the music industry across all its verticals.

One achievement Andreea is particularly proud of is the kick off last September of their first mentoring programme: shegrows. The organisation received 400 requests and 200 volunteered as mentors. 22 couples of mentor-mentee were matched in the end; and two of the mentored women recently landed a job.

 shesaidso

Future plans

Andreea's answer is straight forward: "we need more resources, more funds to grow and professionalise our project". She dreams of a real platform for this initiative which is still pretty much run as a google group. But resources are also sought to organise flagship events, workshops and grow the mentoring programme.

One other goal is to reach out increasingly to under-represented communities, such as people of color, the LGBTQ community, people from lower economic backgrounds or with disabilities, so as to really foster diversity in the music industry.

On a more personal level the founder of shesaid.so is wondering whether to continue to develop the initiative besides her day job or take on a full-time commitment. No matter what she decides, Andreea, who now lives in Los Angeles, certainly has the drive and stamina to bring this awesome and much needed initiative forward.

 shesaidso

Ben Turner, one of the founders of the electronic music event IMS, took the stage at an evening event hosted be shesaid.so during the IMS. Ben said that his start with Andreea had been "rocky" admitting that he didn't really understand what she wanted to achieve. With hindsight though, he added, he realized the need to open up more the music world to the many actors, male and female, who contribute to its striving.

Ben credited the founder of shesaid.so for her relentless work, for the fresh perspectives she had brought to the summit, and for addressing the issues that need to be tackled. Andreea's essence couldn't have been summarized any better.

shesaid.so

International Music SummitVietnams current and former information ministers and several other senior officials have been accused of very serious violations linked to state telecoms firm Mobifone and BIDV bank, part of a widening crackdown on corruption.

An inspection committee from the countrys Communist party said the officials were responsible for allowing a loss-making deal in which Mobifone tried to buy a 95-percent stake in a private pay-TV service called Audio Visual Global.

The violations caused big losses to the state assets, badly affected Mobifones operation and privatisation process and the reputation of the party and the Information Ministry, the committee said in a statement on its website.

The six officials named in the case included Information Minister Truong Minh Tuan, his predecessor Nguyen Bac Son and the former chairman of state telecommunications company Mobifone, Le Nam Tra.

Separately, the committee said the former chairman of state-controlled lender BIDV Tran Bac Ha and two other executives at the bank had committed violations in lending 4.7 trillion dong ($206.18 million) to 12 companies involved in a corruption case at Vietnam Construction Bank.

The committee said the officials punishment would now be considered. In Vietnam, the inspection committee investigates wrongdoing before making a decision on how to sanction those found responsible.

BIDV and Mobifone did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Deputy Information Minister Hoang Vinh Bao told a news conference the ministry would follow the conclusions of the inspection committee.

Vietnams ongoing corruption crackdown has reached the energy, banking, police, telecoms sectors as well as to provincial levels, with a former politburo member sentenced to 31 years in prison, the first official of such high-ranking to face trial in decades.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!SYDNEY -- Global airlines and aviation executives warned on Sunday about growing international trade tensions, saying they could damage the airline industry and the world economy.

The Trump administration has renewed tariff threats against China, while key U.S. allies Canada, Mexico and the European Union have been hit with duties on steel and aluminum.

Alexandre de Juniac, director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents most of the worlds main carriers, said he was very worried, highlighting that the industry relied on open borders for the movement of goods and people.

Any measures that reduce trade and probably consequently limit passenger travel are bad news, not only for the global economy, but its very bad news for this industry, he told Reuters on the sidelines of IATAs annual meeting in Sydney.

The uncertainty could dampen demand for the business travel, a key driver of profits for the airline industry, Gloria Guevara Manzo, chief executive of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

(Business travelers) need to wait and see what happens  will their business be impacted, do they need to diversify, go some other places. War in trade is not good, she said.

Planemakers Boeing and Airbus echoed that the uncertainty was negative for business and highlighted that free trade helped to drive economic growth, creating jobs.

It brings down costs to consumers and creates jobs both with our partners as well as at our company, Boeing Commercial Airplanes marketing vice president Randy Tinseth told Reuters.

Airbus said the aviation industry existed because people were able to travel freely and markets were open.

We are in a worldwide industry here. We see it in a negative way because it is putting borders and putting constraints for everybody, including our customers, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer Eric Schulz told reporters.

Asked about the impact of tariffs on its business, Boeings Tinseth said it would not have a material impact on the companys financials.

For example, I think 90 percent of the aluminum we acquire comes domestically, he said.

Airbus Schulz said it was too early to give an answer as to the direct financial impact on the European company.

Guevara Manzo also said the WTTC is concerned about tariffs because it means less money for businesses to invest in critical infrastructure, such as ports, airports and hotels. Steel for hotels is like flour for bakeries, she said.

The annual IATA meeting brings together about 130 CEOs and 1,000 delegates.

This year in Sydney, concerns that a three-year run of unusually high returns might end due to rising fuel, labor and infrastructure costs are in the spotlight.

The more you restrict trade, or migration, or travel, the less prosperity you get for this industry, de Juniac added.It has been months since I last visited my parents home. When I first walked in, I thought Id accidently entered a museum. My dad bought himself a smartphone, took several pictures, printed them out, and hung them all over the house! Linh posted on Facebook.

The status has since received hundreds of likes and more than a few comments about how handsome her father is (sorry ladies, the 70-year-old is married and even considering including his wife in the next selfie-shoot!).

Linh is currently a student at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities under the Vietnam National University-Hanoi.

When she is not at school, she keeps busy with a part-time job, leaving few opportunities to visit her hometown of Hung Yen, about 60 kilometers southeast of Hanoi.

Linhs father showed off dozens of selfies on his phone, but the budding photographer still has a long way to go. 100 pictures but only one posture from one angle, Linh said.

Needless to say, she was shocked when she returned home for the first time in three months and found the walls decorated with countless print-outs of her fathers selfies.

It cost VND15,000 [US$0.66] to print each picture, Linh said, adding that her father has a history of letting his inner-child run free.

He is always telling jokes and acting silly. On some days, he blasts music and dances around the house. He even likes to write poems and recite them for the entire family, she said.

Linh shared that her teachers used to assume that her father, now 70 years old, was actually her grandfather during school conferences.

But despite his age, her father has always been young at heart.

My dad is getting older, so long as he gets to do what he wants and eats what he likes, Im happy, Linh said.

According to Linh, her fathers hobbies include playing chess, raising the familys dog, birds, chickens, and cats, and of course, taking selfies!

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!Police in Ho Chi Minh City said Saturday that they had captured a man charged with producing and selling a large quantity of synthetic drugs after many months of tracking his activity.

A drug addict, Dang Hoang Minh was known to provide ecstasy to local dealers and frequented a hotel in Go Vap District.

On Thursday, the 33-year-old was forcibly stopped and searched by a drugs squad while delivering the substance to users on a motorcycle.

Police found a box of around 1,000 pills of ecstasy of various types carefully concealed in an air vent of his room at the hotel.

Dang Hoang Minh is seen handcuffed in custody in this photo provided by Ho Chi Minh City police.

In a house he rented in District 12 for drug production, over 3,000 pills of ecstasy were discovered along with equipment, coloring and additives used for the activity.

The man said he purchased ecstasy, drugs and other substances from various shady sources, including the underground business along Vietnams border with China, then ground and mixed them together before turning them into pills.

Each pill fetches VND80,000 (US$4), he said, adding that he had done the racketeering over the past six months.

The case is under further investigation.

Plastic containers used for making synthetic drugs are seen in this photo provided by Ho Chi Minh City police.

A tool for making synthetic drugs is seen in this photo provided by Ho Chi Minh City police.

Substances Dang Hoang Minh used to make ecstasy are seen in this photo provided by Ho Chi Minh City police.

Equipment and substances for making ecstasy are seen in this photo provided by Ho Chi Minh City police.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!A Vietnamese tourist couple has been found stabbed to death in their room at the Circus Circus hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, police in the US gambling center said.

"As a result of our initial processing of the room, we are able to confirm that it is definitely a double homicide," Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Lieutenant Ray Spencer told reporters late Friday.

The killings happened overnight Thursday-Friday, he said.

The couple were part of a tour group from Vietnam and did not speak English, which complicates the investigation, Spencer said.

There was no information on possible suspects, and the identity of the victims had not been released.US sci-fi The Crossing premieres later this month on Showcase.

The series featuring Steve Zahn, Natalie Martinez & Sandrine Holt centres around refugees seeking asylum in an American town. But they claim to be from America, 180 years in the future, possessing superhuman powers.

Locals Simone Kessell & Georgia Haig also feature.

This debuted to mixed reviews when it premiered in the US in April.

Jude Ellis is the sheriff of Port Canaan, a small fishing town on the Oregon coast. Having relocated from Oakland to escape a strained marriage and a dark past as a big city cop, his goal is to build a quiet new life for himself and for, eventually, his young son. But those plans for a quiet life change instantly when 47 refugees from a war-torn country wash up on his beach seeking asylum. But the country theyre from is America and the war theyre fleeing is 180 years in the future.

Mondays from June 25 at 9.30pm on Showcase.     .    , , , .     ,        ,    ,        !The Minister of justice, Dr Phillip Lee, yesterday announced new government plans for Secure Schools in England and Wales. Outlined in the Secure Schools Vision is a compact overview of how the Ministry of Justice intends these new establishments to be run. These schools will emphasise education and rehabilitation while being run in a secure manner. It is said that there will be a holistic approach to their management which aims to positively contribute to a youths education, health, and life and social skills. The document states that they will be akin to a special residential school or secure childrens home and not simply prisons with education.

Background

Yesterdays announcement of Secure Schools is part of the governments response to the Charlie Taylor Review.

The 2016 review was commissioned by Michael Gove, the then Education Secretary, to investigate how improvements could be made to the youth justice system to reduce levels of re-offending. At the helm of the review was Charlie Taylor, a former head teacher and behavioural expert.

The review criticised the education provided to those in the youth justice system arguing that attempts to improve the level of education given were being done too slowly and that the type of education did not have appropriate focus. It found there was not enough focus on teaching numeracy and literacy, as well as the general educational experience not keeping pace with the improvements and updates to the curriculum outside of young offenders institutions.

The review found, among other aspects, that many of those in the youth justice system had mental health issues, learning difficulties, and other health problems. It was also acknowledged that a significant number of those in the system had come from backgrounds which included various adverse conditions such as abuse, drug and alcohol misuse, and dysfunctional family life.

While these were certainly not considered to be an excuse for their behaviour, it was accepted that the failings of government services and agencies to combat issues such as those contributed to the path to Crime that youths took. These factors highlighted the vulnerability of offenders and were argued to be detrimental to their ability to learn.

Mental health services were another area that received criticism. According to the report, many youths were found to be suspected of having undiagnosed mental health conditions as the level of problems needed to receive support from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHs) in some areas was argued to be too high. For those in young offenders institutions, over a third were reported as having a mental illness.

Several suggestions for improvement were made including suggestions for changes to be made regarding children in court, the central governments relationship with the youth justice system, and the proposal of Secure Schools rather than youth prisons. Taylor called for schools to have a psychologically-informed ethos running through all its interactions with children in order to deliver an effective service.

Changes announced

Yesterdays Press Release from the Ministry of Justice stressed that tailored education and healthcare will be put at the heart of youth justice. Improving educational standards and provision for boosting physical and mental health will thus be prioritised. If implemented to a good standard, this should help tackle shortfalls of the system that were highlighted in the Charlie Taylor Review.

It was further said not-for-profit organisations would oversee the management of the Secure Schools and that these organisations should be dedicated to ensuring that the best attempts are made to turn lives around as a result of entering the youth justice system. The process of rehabilitation will include personalised programmes that build on [the offenders] strengths and potential using interventions which are evidence-based and teaching in fitting ratios of staff to young offender.

These new schools would each have places for 60-70 youths aged between 12 and 17. Discussions of protocols for inspections of Secure Schools are said to be underway.

Commenting on yesterdays announcement, Lee has said: Good education in and out of the classroom is the key to unlocking a secure and stable future for young people and I am determined to drive forward our comprehensive reforms so that young people are equipped with the skills to live successful, crime-free lives on release.

Secure Schools will focus on the root cause of offending, by intervening early to help break the cycle of reoffending  making our streets safer and diverting young people away from a life of crime.

Future of the youth justice system

The launch of a vision for Secure Schools is the first of a number of reforms within the justice system.

It is unknown at this early stage when the first Secure Schools will be created, though the government is holding an event in July for organisations interested in running them. These schools, along with other much-needed reforms, will hopefully curb re-offending rates.Today marks the one-year anniversary of the London Bridge terror attack. People of London will come together to remember the victims of the attack, as service of commemoration will be held at Southwark Cathedral for the victims and their family members, and those who survived, as well as those who responded to the crisis. The memorial will begin with a minutes silence in memory of those who lost their lives on that fateful day. Eight people were killed in the attack and 48 were injured when three terrorists drove a white van into pedestrians walking on the London Bridge, at the north side of the river, at 21:58 BST on 3 June last year.

Locals tried to fight off the terrorists

The van then crossed over and returned in the opposite direction six minutes later. After running people over, the van crashed near the Barrowboy and Banker Pub. The terrorists then jumped out of the van, armed with fake suicide vest and knives, and began stabbing people at local pubs and restaurants.

As the police were being alerted, some people tried to fight off the terrorists by throwing chairs and glasses at them. Shouting "This is for Allah," the terrorists managed to wound several people before being shot and killed by police. Among those hurt were four police officers. One of them was a British Transport Police officer who was seriously injured when he faced the attackers, armed with only a baton.

Another one wounded was an off-duty police officer who managed to tackle one of the terrorists to the ground, BBC reported. More than a 100 emergency calls came in during and after the attack. The Islamic State Group later claimed responsibility for the attack.

People enjoying a night out were targeted

Among the victims were Chrissy Archibald, a 30-year-old Canadian bride-to-be, Kirsty Boden, a 28-year-old Australian nurse who worked at a London hospital, and James McMullan, a 32-year-old Londoner.

Others killed were 21-year-old Sara Zelenak, 26-year-old Frenchman Alexandre Pigeard, 45-year-old Frenchman Xavier Thomas, 36-year-old Sebastian Belanger and 39-year-old Ignacio Echeverria from Spain.

According to CNN, many of those targeted were enjoying a fun night out in Borough Market, a place that is very popular among locals, packed with bars and restaurants that are usually full of people.

During the memorial today, family members of the victims will light candles and an olive tree will be planted. The tree has been made out of the flowers that were left on the bridge in memory of the dead and will be called The Tree of Healing. Then, at 4.30, a march will take place from Southwark Cathedral to the Needle. Further memorial plans are being developed.There are no words to explain the impact of what happened during the last segment in "Coronation Street". For several weeks, fans were provided with hints that Pat Phelan will again create havoc in 'Corrie'. However, his evil plan was cut short thanks to his nemesis, Anna Windass. This angle alone eclipsed other major storylines in the episode, which isnt really a shocker to most of the fans.

The legend of the 'Greatest Villain' in Corrie

For the past five years, Pat Phelan made a lot of fans angry and upset triggering some of them to draw up a petition advocating killing the character off.

This is the same case with other shows like "Game of Thrones", who has Ramsay Bolton and Joffrey Baratheon voted as the most despised characters. The actor himself, Connor McIntyre received backlash in real life which is very interesting, to say the least. This shows the testament or body of work the actor has put into the character, making the fans even hate him in real life.

Throughout the rich history of "Coronation Street", no other villain can match the magnitude of work that Pat Phelan accomplished. He was already hailed by the Executive Creative Director of the show Tony Pipes as the greatest villain and it is safe to say that his legacy has already been cemented. The character that is being presented is similar to the legendary Dr Hannibal Lecter of The Silence of The Lambs.

A cerebral assassin who can manipulate and strike fear on any given day with minimum effort is truly an intimidating entity.

Evil genius

Pat Phelan, who staged his death the first time was simply an eye opener for the avid fans. It clearly states that this kind of storyline can change in a matter of seconds. His whole family believed that he was gone forever.

However, it was just a part of his plan as he was lurking behind the scenes. His strategy upon his return was very simple, to have revenge against everybody whom he felt double-crossed him.

Gary Windass made Pat Phelans plan easier, instead of going to the authorities and reporting Pat, he wanted to take matters into his own hands.

Garys reluctant and impulsive behaviour is again the main reason why he's in trouble. Only for Pat, it seems that everything is working for him and it was surreal when he met Robert, Carla and Michelle in one room. He terrorised them the way he only could and it was just a matter of time before he kills them all.

Unfortunately, his nemesis Anna Windass has his number. Her anger got the best of her and even though it wasnt her plan to brutally kill Pat, she ended the streak of the greatest villain on the series with a knife to his chest. As for Connor McIntyre, he said that the character will stay close forever to him and the same goes for the fans of 'Corrie.Eurogroup President Mario Centeno speaks during a panel entitled "Reforming the Euro Area: Views from Inside and Outside of Europe" during IMF spring meetings in Washington, U.S., April 19, 2018. REUTERS/Aaron P. Bernstein

By Jan Strupczewski

WHISTLER, British Columbia (Reuters) - Euro zone lenders will put together a debt relief deal for Greece that will be credible to markets and involve a rescheduling of loans from the second Greek bailout, said Mario Centeno, chairman of the euro zone finance ministers group.

Centeno spoke to Reuters after talks on Saturday morning between top euro zone policymakers and the International Monetary Fund on the sidelines of a meeting of G7 financial leaders in the Canadian mountain resort of Whistler, British Columbia.

The aim was to secure last-minute backing from the IMF for the euro zone debt relief offer for Greece so that it is credible with markets and draws investors back to Greece after it exits its bailout on Aug. 20.

There was no deal on Saturday, but the euro zone and the IMF agreed to continue talks next week to have an agreement ready for June 21, when euro zone finance ministers, called the Eurogroup, want to seal the details of the debt offer.

"We continue to work with the IMF, there are meetings scheduled on our way to June 21st and everyone must be reassured that the decision (on debt relief) will provide Greece with market access ... from the 20th of August," said Centeno, who is Portugal's finance minister.

After three successive bailouts since Greece lost market access in 2010, euro zone governments are now Athens' main creditors with outstanding loans of 230 billion euros so far.

The IMF took part in the first two bailouts, but refused to join in the third, started in 2015, until the euro zone agrees how to make Greek debt, now at 179 percent of GDP, sustainable.

Without substantial debt relief from the euro zone, private investors will stay away from Greece, fearing a collapse of its public finances at some point, the IMF argues.

ELEMENTS OF DEBT RELIEF PACKAGE

There is agreement between the IMF and the euro zone there will be no "haircut" - a reduction in the principal of the debt - but only an extension of maturities and grace periods.

Story continues

In May 2016, the euro zone promised to extend the maturities and grace periods on Greek loans so that Greece's gross financing needs are below 15 percent of GDP after 2018 for the medium term, and below 20 percent of GDP later.

Last June, under strong pressure from the IMF, euro zone ministers said they would be ready to consider extending the maturities and grace periods by a range from zero to 15 years. The average maturity now is 32 years.

Many euro zone policymakers see the IMF's stamp of approval on the debt relief offer as key for its credibility with financial markets. But Centeno thought differently.

"I wouldn't put it like that," he said.

"I think people will be able to read the final package that will be agreed upon and the IMF is going to be involved in the future no matter what because of the huge financial engagement that the IMF has in Greece already," he said.

He said the euro zone planned to consider only the 131 billion euros of loans from the second bailout for maturity reprofiling.

"We continue to work within the agreed lines. This means vis-a-vis the EFSF loans that the extension can be up to 15 years. This is what is being discussed. Along with other debt measures that will be also considered now," he said, referring to the European Financial Stability Facility.

Other measures include replacing more expensive IMF loans to Greece with cheaper euro zone ones, returning profits made by euro zone central banks on Greek bonds to Athens and linking the pace of debt repayments to the rate of Greek economic growth.

The IMF wants the EFSF loan maturity and grace period extension to be the maximum 15 years. It also wants it to be automatically prolonged for an indefinite period, if needed to ensure Greek gross financing needs stay below 20 percent of GDP.

Germany and several other northern European countries would like shorter extensions and no automatic prolongation, but instead quarterly reviews to make sure Greece is not reversing reforms agreed and implemented under the three bailouts.

To make sure that Greece sticks to reforms, the euro zone wants to insert a clause into the debt agreement that it would become null and void unless Greece keeps its primary surplus at 3.5 percent of GDP until at least 2022.

(Reporting by Jan Strupczewski; Editing by Paul Simao)Aliso Viejo Fire Update: Laguna Beach, California, Wildfire Continues Burning

A wildfire in Laguna Beach, California, had grown to more than 50 acres Saturday afternoon, the Orange County Fire Authority confirmed. Some 200 firefighters were dispatched to combat the Aliso Viejo fire.

Evacuation orders were in place for residents near the fire, including those in the Top of the World neighborhood, OCFA said. The flames were being pushed by canyon winds.

There had not yet been any injuries reported as a result of the fire. The cause remained unclear.

Trending: Do We Already Know Fallout 76s Release Date?

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekClash of Clans  Town Hall 12 update was revealed earlier this week, and now we have a full recap of the balance changes coming alongside it. The Sneak Peek was revealed via a Supercell forum post Saturday morning. Engineers will hate this update, but loot collectors will love it.

CLASH OF CLANS TH12 UPDATE BALANCE SNEAK PEEK

ECONOMY

Wall Ring

The price of Wall Ring has been reduced from 200 Gems to 100 Gems per Ring.

The number of Rings required for each Wall upgrade has been reduced and now covers up to 1 million of required resources. For example, a Wall that requires 1 million resources will require one Ring. A Wall that requires 2 million resources will require two Rings, 3 million resources will require three Rings, etc. Anything below 1 million resources will only require one Ring.

Trader

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The Trader will offer an increased number of Wall Rings.

Resource Storage

Maximum Elixir and Gold storage at Town Hall 12 is increased to 12 million per resource type.

Maximum Dark Elixir at Town Hall 12 is increased to 240,000.

Walls

We understand upgrading your Walls is a time consuming aspect of Clash of Clans. As a result we are rebalancing how much Walls cost for Town Hall levels 5-10. Please see the corresponding table below to see how much the Walls have been discounted.

Town Hall 12 wall chart

Clash of Clans Subreddit

Treasury

We have increased the amount your Treasury can store across all Town Hall levels. Please see the corresponding table below for the new storage levels. Please note: Your Clan Perks also increase your storage. These numbers are without your Clan Perks!

Town Hall 12 treasury chart

Clash of Clans Subreddit

Star Bonus

The amount of resources awarded per league level has been drastically increased for the Star Bonus rewards. The new rewards are as follows, per league.

Town Hall 12 star bonus

Clash of Clans Subreddit

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War Loot

The amount of loot earned from Clan Wars has been increased.

Percentage for winning Clan Wars increased from 600 percent to 700 percent.

Percentage for draws increased from 240 percent to 350 percent.

Percentage for losses increased from 180 percent to 300 percent.

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SPELLS

Lightning Damage Buff

1: 50 > 50

2: 55 > 60

3: 60 > 80

4: 65 > 100

5: 75 > 120

6: 85 > 140

Freeze Spell

Freeze Spell has been rebalanced to increase its utility.

Housing space requirement reduced to one.

Training cost and time reduced by 50 percent.

Donation cost reduced by 50 percent

Duration of the Freeze spell reduced.

Clone Spell

Housing space requirement reduced to three.

Training cost and time reduced by 25 percent.

Donation cost reduced by 25 percent.

Duplicated housing space reduced by 25 percent.

DEFENSES

Town Hall Upgrading

All available buildings must be placed before you are able to upgrade to the next Town Hall level.

Archer Tower

Level 12 damage decreased from 86 to 83.

Level 13 damage decreased from 98 to 92.

Level 14 damage decreased from 110 to 108.

Inferno Tower

Single and multi-mode damage increased.

Level 4 damage increased from 54 to 58.

Level 5 damage increased from 64 to 70.

Bomb Tower

Level 5 damage increased from 44 to 46.

Level 6 damage increased from 48 to 52.

Eagle Artillery

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Removed the 3x damage bonus to Golems.

TROOPS

Healer

Level 4 healing reduced from 71 to 65.

Level 5 healing reduced from 90 to 80.

Miner

Movement speed increased from 250 to 400.

Time required for Miner to surface/submerge reduced from 1.2 seconds to 0.6 seconds.

Giant

Level 7 HP increased from 1,220 to 1,280.

Level 8 HP increased from 1,440 to 1,480.

Bowler

Level 1 DPS reduced from 65 to 60.

Level 2 DPS reduced from 75 to 70.

Level 3 DPS reduced from 85 to 80.

P.E.K.K.A.

Level 5 HP increased from 4,500 to 4,700.

Level 6 HP increased from 5,100 to 5,200.

We have also decreased the Elixir costs to train P.E.K.K.A. in order to make them more affordable at lower levels.

Cost Reduction 1: 28,000 > 21,000 2: 32,000 > 24,000 3: 36,000 > 27,000 4: 40,000 > 30,000 5: 45,000 > 33,000 6: 50,000 > 35,000 7: 55,000 > 37,000



Dragon

Level 5 HP increased from 2,900 to 3,000

Level 6 HP increased from 3,200 to 3,300

We have also decreased the Elixir costs to train Dragon to make them more affordable at lower levels.

Cost Reduction 1: 25,000 > 18,000 2: 29,000 > 20,000 3: 33,000 > 22,000 4: 37,000 > 24,000 5: 42,000 > 26,000 6: 46,000 > 28,000



Witch

HP / DPS Buff 1: 270 > 320 / 50 > 100 2: 300 > 360 / 60 > 120 3: 330 > 400 / 70 > 140

All Witch levels spawn four Skeletons

BUILDER BASE

Added 20 Wall pieces (four segments) to Builder Hall level 8.

Decreased Super P.E.K.K.A. death damage across all levels.

Assuming most of these changes stay in place for the final Town Hall 12 update, the balance tweaks listed here essentially fall into three categories: increasing loot and rewards, fixing exploits and buffing underused troops. The most significant gameplay change here, though, is quietly tucked into the patch notes. Because upgrading Town Hall levels now requires players to place all buildings, that makes the manipulation of war weight necessary for engineering bases very difficult to accomplish. Since all players must put down their heavily weighted defenses, it greatly increases the odds of matching opponents of equal skill levels.

Another exploited strategy thats going away is the rampant abuse of Witches and Bowlers at higher levels. There may be greater HP and DPS involved for the Witch, but missing that fourth Bat at level 3 actually ends up netting to a significant loss in power. On the other end of the spectrum, it will be nice to see Freeze, P.E.K.K.A. and Dragons work their way back into the lower-level meta. As it would seem, there are no truly negative balance changes due alongside Town Hall 12.

Clash of Clans is available now on Android and iOS. A release date for the Town Hall 12 update has not been announced, but, considering Sneak Peeks have started, we expect its coming soon.

What are your thoughts on the Town Hall 12 update balance changes? Will the new building placement policy end engineered bases for good? Tell us in the comments section!

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekPresident Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have received their highest approval ratings ever in South Koreaeven though they went back and forth this week on whether a historic summit to discuss denuclearization would go ahead.

Related: Obama More Admired Than Trump in Every Country Except Russia: Poll

Trump has gained eight percentage points in the past two months to achieve a 32 percent approval rating from South Koreans, according to a Gallup Korea poll released Friday. Only 9 percent of South Koreans approved of Trump a year ago.

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The United States president is only slightly more popular than his North Korean counterpart. Kim over the past two months gained 21 percentage points for a 31 approval rating, according to the poll that was conducted from May 29 to 31.

While both Trump and Kims disapproval ratings dropped by double digits since March, they remain far less popular than South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who, a little over a year since taking office, received an approval rating in the high 70s.

06_01_18_TrumpKimPoll

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI,KCNA/AFP/Getty Images

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Seoul National University political science professor and polling expert Kang Won-taek told The Washington Post that it is very rare in South Korea for Trump to become more popular among liberals and conservatives.

When he first took office, he was the least popular American president here, he said. But he has totally changed the situation.

Meanwhile, Kims popularity hike was less surprising due to photos and videos that went viral of him and Moon joking, hugging and even holding hands.

Story continues

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The Gallup Korea poll included 1,002 adults over the age of 19 and had a margin of error of 3.1 percentage points.

On Friday afternoon, a week after the summit was called off, Trump announced that the meeting was back in the works for June 12 in Singapore. The change in heart came after Kims top envoy hand-delivered a letter from the North Korean leader to the White House.

After meeting with the envoy, Trump said of past nuclear war threats between the two leaders, "I think we're over that, totally over that.

He added: Now we're going to deal and we're going to really start a process. We're meeting with the chairman on June 12 and I think it's probably going to be a very successfulultimately a successful process.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekBelarussian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei attends a news conference after a meeting with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel in Minsk, Belarus November 17, 2017. REUTERS/Vasily Fedosenko

Thomson Reuters

By Alastair Macdonald

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Belarus has no plans to allow Russia to base troops on its territory, its foreign minister said on Thursday, but could review that if, for example, Poland were to host a permanent U.S. military presence.

Vladimir Makei, in Brussels to press a case for expanded cooperation with the European Union, told reporters that Minsk wanted to reduce tensions in the region and maintain good relations with the West and with its former rulers in Moscow. It felt a U.S. base in Poland would increase regional "mistrust".

Asked if Polish proposals to host a U.S. base amid fears of Russian aggression could prompt Belarus to revise its rejection of any Russian base, Makei said: "I think there will be some reaction to this intention to deploy a new military air base.

"Nothing is impossible ... As of today ... we are not going to deploy new foreign military bases on the territory of Belarus because we would like to contribute to security in our region and we don't want to be a troublemaker.

"So we are not going to deploy right now new military bases. But looking to the future we should take into account the future steps which will be taken by our neighbors."

Makei stressed that Belarus, under Alexander Lukashenko who has been president of the former Soviet republic for 24 years, wanted to keep open "military dialogue" in the region, including maintaining "hot lines" to control tensions.

Belarus was still willing to provide peacekeeping forces to help resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, he said, an offer Lukashenko first made four years ago. A company of about 100 troops was ready and Belarus could send more, Makei said, adding there was new interest among the various parties.

After meeting EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, who repeated Brussels' demands for human rights improvements including an end to the death penalty as a condition for more EU aid, Makei said Belarus was intent on reforms toward democracy and on reducing state control of its economy to improve ties.

Story continues

It was, however, keen to avoid hasty changes that might prove destabilizing.

Belarus remained eager to deepen its trade and other ties with Russia but also wanted to diversity its markets, including in trade with China, as well as with the EU and other countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

"China is a very important partner for us," Makei said, noting a major Chinese investment in the Great Stone industrial park near Minsk, part of Beijing's "new Silk Road" project promoting its trade routes to Europe.

Where 51 percent of Belarussian trade was currently with Russia and 27 percent with the EU, Makei cited a target of a balance of about a third of trade with Russia, a third with the EU and a third with the rest of the world.

He said that discussions with Europe's EBRD development bank indicated that two Belarussian banks could be ready for privatization in a few months. Other privatization candidates included cement and building materials firm Krasnoselskstroymaterialy and the Krinitsa brewery.

(Editing by Lisa Shumaker)

See Also:Israeli soldiers stand at the scene of attempted car ramming attack, in Hebron in the occupied West Bank June 2, 2018. REUTERS/Mussa Qawasma

Thomson Reuters

RAMALLAH, West Bank (Reuters) - Israeli troops shot dead a Palestinian who tried to ram his car into them in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, the Israeli military said.

"A terrorist attempted to run over IDF (Israel Defence Forces) troops located at the site with his vehicle. In response, the troops fired toward the terrorist, killing him. No IDF troops were injured," the military said.

The Palestinian Health Ministry confirmed the man was killed but officials gave no further details on the incident which comes at a time of heightened tensions between Israel and the Palestinians.

At least 119 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in weekly border demonstrations launched on March 30 in the Gaza Strip. On Tuesday Palestinian militants fired dozens of mortar bombs and rockets into Israel from Gaza, drawing Israeli air strikes.

Peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians collapsed in 2014 and a bid by the U.S. administration to restart them has so far shown no sign of progress.

The Palestinians are outraged at President Donald Trump's decision to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv. Palestinians want to establish an independent state in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Palestinians have limited self rule in parts of the West Bank, where President Mahmoud Abbas holds sway. Gaza is controlled by the Islamist Hamas group, which Israel and the West designate as a terrorist organization.

Citing security concerns, Israel keeps a naval blockade on Gaza and tight control of its land crossings. The Israeli military controls most the territory of the West Bank, where Israeli settlements have expanded over the years.

(Reporting by Ali Sawafta and Maayan Lubell)

See Also:Jeremy Corbyn has said he would give the Elgin Marbles back to Greece if he became prime minister.

The Labour leader told Greek newspaper Ta Nea "the Parthenon sculptures belong to Greece" when asked whether he would consider returning the carved figures and stelae.

The Parthenon sculptures, as they are also called, have been housed in the British Museum since 1816 after they were bought by the government from Lord Elgin.

While Greece has long campaigned for their repatriation, opponents say to do so would open the door to requests from dozens of other countries for artworks in British museums to returned.

The centre-left leaning Ta Nea says it interviewed Mr Corbyn about several topics, including Brexit, Greek debt, the media and the marbles.

In translated Greek, it says: "In the exclusive interview given to Nea, Jeremy Corbyn agrees that, if elected, he will begin the return of the Parthenon sculptures to our country. 'The Parthenon sculptures belong to Greece,' he says without turning."

It adds that Mr Corbyn continued: "They were made in Greece and have been there for many centuries until Lord Elgin took them.

"As with everything stolen or removed from a country that was in the possession or colony - including objects looted from other countries in the past - we should also begin constructive talks with the Greek government on the return of the sculptures."

Mr Corbyn has long been a supporter of the marbles' repatriation, speaking on the issue in parliament in 2014 during one of the many debates there has been on the issue.

The sculptures, which used to adorn the Parthenon at the top of the Acropolis in Athens, were removed by Elgin between 1799 and 1810 after he obtained permission from officials of the Ottoman empire, which ruled Greece at the time.

Elgin claimed at the time that he was worried about damage being done to the marbles, but their removal sparked much controversy, with critics including Lord Byron.

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In recent years, Greece's government has made a formal request for the sculptures' return and has proposed other solutions, including considering legal action.

According to a House of Commons briefing paper from June 2017, the UK government's position "continues to be that 'issues relating to the ownership and management of the Parthenon sculptures are matters for the trustees of the British Museum'."

According to the British Museum : "The trustees hold the whole of the British Museum collection under the terms of the British Museum Act 1963, for the benefit of the public.

"This legislation prohibits the trustees from permanently disposing of objects unless they are duplicates of others already in the collection or are 'unfit to be retained ... and can be disposed of without detriment to the interests of students'."

A Labour spokesperson said: "Jeremy was stating his long-standing personal view that the Parthenon statues were made in and belong to Greece.

"The Elgin marbles are an emotive issue and it is in the interests of both Britain and Greece to have a constructive dialogue about them, which represents all views.

"Jeremy was right to call for constructive talks between the UK and Greek governments."The King of Jordan has blamed regional turmoil for worsening economic woes that have sparked angry protests.

State media quoted King Abdullah as telling Prime Minister Hani Mulki and many members of his government the situation was not of Jordan's own making.

Jordan's government has prompted anger by proposing new laws to increase income taxes by at least 5% and corporation tax by between 20% and 40%.

It is the latest in a series of economic measures since the country secured a $723m three-year overdraft from the International Monetary Fund in 2016.

The credit line, which aims to help the country cut its $37bn debt, has come at a cost, with the government imposing austerity measures and abolishing bread subsidies.

On Saturday evening, the 56-year-old king called a crisis meeting after a fourth night of protests over the new bill in cities across the country.

While stressing that the state must maintain a balance between the amount of money it spends and the quality of services it provides, he called on the government to reach a consensus on the draft law that does not "burden people".

"His majesty stressed that self-reliance is not just a slogan and does not mean simply imposing taxes," state news agency Petra said.

"It means the existence of an effective government agency capable of providing quality services and attracting investment."

It said the king expressed confidence that Jordanian people would overcome their difficulties, but added he stressed the challenges facing the economy were due to the difficult regional conditions.

Petra quoted Abdullah as saying: "The problem does not lie in Jordan. Jordanians are ready to sacrifice for their country, and with their strong resolve, we will persevere and overcome these challenges, as we have surmounted others before."

Angry protests broke out in cities across Jordan on Saturday night over the IMF-backed austerity measures.

About 3,000 people clashed with police and security personnel near the prime minister's office in Amman until the early hours, waving Jordanian flags and signs reading "we will not kneel".

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Some protesters were photographed being treated for what appeared to be injuries.

The comments from Abdullah were a rare intervention by the king in Jordan's constitutional monarchy, where executive power lies with the government and laws are made by parliament, with the king as head of state.

According to Europarl, an EU Parliament think tank, the impact on Jordan of the civil war in Syria has been "immense".

Jordan is home to around 650,000 refugees from Syria, with an estimated two out of three of those living below the poverty line and likely to stay in the country for "many years", the think tank said.

The UK government has pledged to provide 70m in aid in 2017-18 to support the government of Jordan, one of its strongest allies in the Middle East.

The Department for International Development (DfID) says on its website: "Conflict and instability in Jordan would lead to serious humanitarian, political, economic and security consequences for the region and the UK's national interests, especially on extremism and migration."

It adds: "Jordan is a pillar of stability in a volatile, fragile and conflict-affected region. But it is struggling to cope with the strain of hosting around 650,000 registered Syrian refugees since the start of the Syria crisis and a growing threat from Daesh (Islamic State) and other extremist groups."

In addition, with Jordan being across the border from the West Bank, it has since 1948 become home to hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees.A 27-year-old Maryland millionaire is facing murder charges in the death of a man he hired to dig tunnels beneath his Bethesda home in a bid save himself from a possible intercontinental ballistic missile attack.

Daniel Beckwitt, who is accused of depraved heart murder, grew increasingly concerned about North Koreas nuclear missile program and began digging an underground bunker to protect himself. Beckwitts fears were fueled by rising international tensions between the United States and North Korea, his lawyer said, according to the New York Daily News.

Screen Shot 2018-06-01 at 4

Montgomery County Police

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There was nothing nefarious about his building of the tunnels, attorney Robert Bonsib said Thursday. They were just a product of his world view.

Beckwitt hired 21-year-old Askia Khafra to help dig out the tunnel, which was at least 20 feet below the surface and about 200 feet in length, The Washington Post reported.

An affidavit revealed Beckwitt took extreme efforts to keep his project a secret, even from Khafra. Beckwitt allegedly picked up Khafra in a rental car from Silver Spring, Maryland, and drove him to Manassas, Virginia. There, Beckwitt had Khafra put on darkened blackout glasses and told him that he was being taken to a job site in Virginia.

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Beckwitt allegedly drove Khafra back to his Bethesda home and only allowed him to remove the blackout glasses once in the basement, the affidavit said. According to CBS News, a fire broke out in the basement in September, leading officers to find Khafra dead in the tunnels.

Khafra died of smoke inhalation and thermal injuries, officials said. Investigators said Beckwitts home had hoarding conditions, including immense piles of garbage and discarded items strewn throughout the entire home, which made escaping from it difficult.

Story continues

The substantial electrical needs of the underground tunnel complex were served by a haphazard daisy-chain of extension cords and plug extenders that created a substantial risk of fire, Montgomery County Detective Michelle Smith said in a court affidavit, according to CBS News.

Authorities in Burke, Virginia, arrested Beckwitt on May 25. He was charged with second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter and later extradited back to Montgomery County. According to court records, Beckwitt appeared in the Circuit Court for Montgomery County on Thursday and was ordered held on a $100,000 cash bond.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekRussia probe special counsel Robert Mueller is looking at Rick Gerson, a New York hedge fund manager and close friend of President Donald Trumps son-in-law and senior White House adviser Jared Kushner.

Related: Mueller Investigating Jared Kushner Meeting With Former United Arab Emirates Adviser

Gerson has come onto Muellers radar for closeness to meetings that some Trump campaign members and associates had with foreign officials. The meetings are a focus of the investigation, five people with knowledge on the situation told NBC News in a report published Friday.

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According to four of those sources, Gerson attended a secret meeting in late 2016 between Trump officials including Kushner and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan (MBZ) of Abu Dhabi at a Four Seasons hotel in New York. Other officials present at the meeting were a United Arab Emirates ambassador to the U.S., Trumps then-chief political adviser Steve Bannon and the presidents former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI in Muellers probe.

Weeks later in January 2017, shortly before Trump took office, Gerson was in the island of Seychelles off East Africa and met with the crown prince, the four sources said. Gerson also had contact with Lebanese-American businessman George Nader, who put together a hush meeting that Trump associate Erik Prince had with MBZ and other officials from Russia and the United Arab Emirates, a person familiar with the matter said based on a text message from Gerson.

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The report, if true, brings into question potential outside influence on Trump, and that he may be mixing government and personal business, former FBI executive assistant director Robert Anderson told NBC News.

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Gerson is the founder, chairman and chief investment officer of Falcon Edge Capital, LP. He had engaged in business with the United Arab Emirates before the 2016 presidential election.

Prior to that, he was a founding member and portfolio manager at Blue Ridge Capital, LLC, and oversaw investments in high tech hardware over 15 years, according to Bloomberg. Gerson also worked at Tiger Management. He went to the University of Virginia.

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Gerson's brother, Mark, befriended Kushner more than 10 years ago and invested in Cadre, a real estate technology company that Kushner's younger brother Josh started, according to The New York Times. In addition, Kushner's family foundation contributed tens of thousands of dollars to Mark Gerson's Israeli medical assistance group.

A spokesman for Rick Gerson would not disclose to NBC News any communications he had with MBZ, Nader and other officials in Seychelles.

"Mr. Gerson was on vacation in the Seychelles prior to the meeting you reference, the spokesman said. He knew nothing about the meeting, had left before the meeting was reported to have taken place, and has never met or communicated with Erik Prince.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekUkraine, seeking to reassure its Western allies after faking the murder of a Russian dissident to thwart what it said was a plot on his life, told them on Friday its ruse led to the discovery of a hit-list of 47 people whom Russia planned to kill abroad.

The Kiev authorities drew both praise and consternation this week for staging the fake shooting of Arkady Babchenko, an exiled journalist, which they said was necessary to protect him and dozens of others who were targeted in a Russian plot.

GettyImages-964524932

Getty Images

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Russia has poured scorn on Ukraines allegations while some organizations and commentators criticized Kiev for the kind of trickery which Ukraine routinely accuses Russia of using.

Ukraines credibility matters as it counts on Western financial support and sanctions on Moscow in its standoff with Russia over the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and a Russian-backed separatist conflict in which more than 10,000 people have been killed.

General Prosecutor Yuriy Lutsenko, one of the few Ukrainian officials who knew about the ruse in advance, briefed the ambassadors of the United States, the European Union and other countries.

In a statement after the meeting, Lutsenko said faking the murder was necessary because it allowed Ukrainian investigators to obtain more information about the list of people targeted and about who had ordered the murder.

As a result, the investigation received a list of 47 (!) people who could be the next victims of terrorists, he wrote on Facebook.

He did not provide any names but said the list included prominent Ukrainian and Russian journalists.

Story continues

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The 47 number is higher than the 30 people, including Babchenko, whom Ukraine originally believed were targets.

The investigation also gleaned important evidence linking the plot to Russian intelligence services, which would be divulged later, Lutsenko said.

Ukrainian officials reported on Tuesday that Babchenko, a Kremlin critic, had been gunned down in his apartment building in Kiev. Lurid pictures of him lying in a pool of blood were published, and officials suggested Russia was behind the killing, something Moscow flatly denied.

A day later, Babchenko appeared in public alive, and Ukrainian state security officials admitted they faked his death to foil and expose what they described as a Russian plot to assassinate him.

That drew criticism from media and commentators abroad who questioned whether the ruse and the false outpouring of grief and finger-pointing at Russia it provoked had undermined credibility in Kiev and handing the Kremlin a propaganda gift.

Babchenko told a press conference in Kiev that he faked his own death using pigs blood after Ukraine's secret service told him the ploy was necessary as his life was at risk.

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Once he was taken to a morgue still pretending to be dead, he "came back to life." He then watched news reports about his death, "what a great guy I was," he said.

One senior EU country diplomat who attended Fridays meeting said Lutsenko had given a convincing explanation to justify the means Ukraine had employed.

Im happy, others are happier than before. Id say it was the right thing to, the diplomat told Reuters, adding that Lutsenko did acknowledge that the media reaction came as a surprise and that side should have been handled better.

Separately two television presenters based in Ukraine, one Russian and one Ukrainian, disclosed publicly that the Ukrainian authorities had shown them evidence of being on Russias hit list and were now living under state protection.

A senior European Union official involved in Ukraine said the staged murder could undermine trust in Kiev if the government did not come forward quickly with evidence of what they claimed and the plots links to Russia.

A marker will be the July 9 EU-Ukraine summit in Brussels, where President Petro Poroshenko will need to show proof, if not before, the official said.

What if they fail to provide evidence? It all depends on how well they follow up, the official said.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekAt least 46 migrants have died and 68 others rescued after their boat sank off the Tunisian coast.

The search for more people, who are Tunisian and other nationalities, will resume on Monday morning, officials said.

Security officials said the boat was packed with about 180 people, including 80 from other African countries, with the death toll making it one of the worst migrant boat accidents in recent years.

Tunisia's interior ministry reported a distress call at 10.45pm on Saturday night from "a fishing boat about to sink" with migrants on board.

Tunisians and seven foreigners were among the survivors, including nationals from Ivory Coast, Mali, Morocco and Cameroon, said a defence ministry spokesman.

He added: "The coastguard and the navy continue their search with the support of a military plane.

"Units of the Sfax Marine Guard and the Navy went to the boat which was five nautical miles from Kerkennah Island and 16 nautical miles from the city of Sfax."

Human traffickers increasingly use Tunisia as a launch pad for migrants heading to Europe.

Unemployed Tunisians and other Africans often try to depart in makeshift boats from Tunisia to Sicily in Italy.

Nine migrants, including six children, drowned in boat accident off Turkey's Mediterranean coast early on Sunday morning.

The boat capsized near the town of Demre in the southern province of Antalya, according to the Turkish coastguard.

The coastguard recovered the bodies of nine victims and rescued four others while a fifth migrant was saved by a passing fishing vessel.

Turkey's state-run Anatolia News Agency reported there were 14-15 people on the vessel.These were the movements in the yields of some of the most widely-followed 10-year sovereign bonds:

US: 2.90% (+4bp)

UK: 1.28% (+5bp)

Germany: 0.39% (+4bp)

France: 0.71% (+4bp)

Italy: 2.69% (-10bp)

Spain: 1.44% (-6bp)

Portugal: 1.88% (-10bp)

Greece: 4.51% (-8bp)

Japan: 0.05% (+1bp)

Gilts succumbed to profit-taking on the back of solid readings on two key US economic reports on Friday, even as the risk of snap elections in Italy and Spain receded, helping to narrow the spread between euro area periphery debt and the generally safer sovereigns of core EU countries, as well as the US and UK.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the US economy generated 223,000 jobs during the month of May, beating forecasts calling for an increase of 190,000.

In parallel, average hourly earnings were 2.7% higher year-on-year, as analysts had correctly anticipated.

Economists at Pantheon Macroeconomics and Capital Economics both labelled the report as "solid", pointing to the broad-based gains in hiring across sectors.

The former also highlighted that a couple of statistical quirks may have weighed on the wage data.

Taking a more middle-of-the-road view, analysts at Barclays Research told clients: "Altogether, we read this report as modestly stronger than expected, but not so much so as to lead FOMC members to believe they are falling behind the curve.

"We see this report as consistent with the Feds optimistic view on the near-term outlook for the US economy and another 25bp increase in the federal funds rate in June and, more broadly, the desire to normalize its policy stance gradually."

Also on Friday, the Institute for Supply Management reported that its US manufacturing sector purchasing managers' index improved from a reading of 57.3 for April to 58.7 in May (consensus: 58.1).

Periphery bonds on the other hand were higher, although they closed off their best levels of the day, with yields on Italian and Spanish 10-year debt having hit intraday lows of 2.53% and 1.32%, respectively.

Indeed, earlier in the day, strategists at BoA-ML had cautioned that: "We have learnt these weeks that Italy politics are complicated and highly volatile. [...] The key point for us is that the new parliamentary majority does not share the "Brussels consensus" of fiscal restraint and supply-side reforms.Even if "Italexit" is unlikely,in our view, the attention is back on the Euro area's structural defects. Notably, we think that the Italian headlines make it harder to find support for the completion of the monetary union."

Linked to the above, overnight the Italian Treasury disclosed it had repurchased 500m-worth of four government bond issues on Thursday.

Those purchases came amid a surge in short-term Italian government debt yields and, according to some accounts, amid a complete lack of buyers and even of bid quotes.After calling 911, claiming she was assaulted in the face multiple times and her daughter was kidnapped, the police found the baby inside a box. Once the police found out that the story was not true, Breanna Lewis, the mother of the baby, was arrested and is now facing charges.

11-month-old baby found in the woods inside a diaper box

Claiming she was assaulted and her daughter was kidnapped, Breanna Lewis is now facing charges after police discovered the 11-month-old baby in a plastic bag, inside a diaper box, and in the deepest part of the woods that was within 1,000 yards of her house in South Carolina.

According to NBC News, Lewis claimed she was walking to her mailbox to mail her rent while holding her baby, Harlee Lewis, when she was attacked multiple times and Harlee was snatched out of her arms and yanked into an SUV with a guy she did not know. At the time. police put out an Amber Alert for Harlee Lewis because Chesterfield County Sheriff Deputies believed her story due to the bruises on Breannas face.

After police conducted their investigation for a few hours, Major Davis was searching for the missing baby when tire tracks led to a path in the woods which led to the diaper box. After opening the box, Major Davis found the baby without a heartbeat. The mother maintained her story until police showed the mother during interrogation that they found Harlee.

That is when the story changed. The kidnapping and assault apparently never happened, but Breanna had no recollection of what happened claims NBC News. According to NBC News, Lewis told the police that she is suffering from mental issues which causes her to black out without any knowledge of what is happening.

A car accident

Just last week, in Anson County, North Carolina, Breanna was in a car accident where she flipped her car, which is what caused the bruising on her face, according to NBC News.

At the scene of the crash, she made a scene, screaming and crying that her daughter was missing, which made the rescue team frantic. The dogs were called, the woods were searched but no baby was found. While the search was happening, the babysitter called informing the police that Harlee was with her and saying that she did not have any idea as to why Breanna was claiming her daughter as missing.

Sheriff Jay Brooks held a live news conference claiming that Breanna Lewis is being charged with filing a false police report and is being charged with improper disposal of human remains. Breanna Lewis is currently on a $71,000-bond. While an autopsy was completed, the results will remain secret due to Harlee being a minor. Chesterfield County is holding a vigil for Harlee on June 6 at the main courthouse around 6 PM. The police are still trying to figure out what caused the death of the baby and ask that if anyone has any information to contact the Chesterfield County Sheriff Department located in South Carolina.Ceres is the only dwarf planet in the inner part of our solar system. To locate Ceres you have to search between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. In 1801 the dwarf planet was named after Ceres, the Roman Goddess of agriculture and is pronounced as series. NASA has been following Ceres with their spacecraft named Dawn. The probe, Dawn, was launched in 2007. She was sent to the asteroid belt between Jupiter and Mars to study and observe the asteroid Vesta and the dwarf planet Ceres.

Dawn is on the move

According to Space.com, Dawn has been out in space for 11 years now, orbiting around both Vesta and Ceres in the asteroid belt that lies between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter.

Dawn's mission was to maneuver around and examine both Vesta and Ceres during its mission, according to NASA. Dawn is equipped with an ion drive which allows her to move around, at NASA's whim, when she is done observing a planet or other masses of matter. Dawn has been incredibly successful. So much, in fact, she is in her second extended phase. NASA has spent roughly $466 million on her thus far with her missions covering Vesta and Ceres.

As reported by Space.com, NASA has spent an enormous amount of time carefully calculating Ceres's orbit and finding the best orbiting pathway that will allow Dawn to float as close as possible to Ceres without smashing into her. The scientists have worked so hard on her navigation that they went through 45,000 potential variations of her movements before they found the perfect one.

NASA needed to calculate this to such a close degree to get the best high-resolution pictures of the planet for the theories their scientists have formulated.

Ceres our precious dwarf planet

Ceres has a beautiful crater on her that has NASA incredibly fascinated. According to Space.com, her crater is called Occator. It is in a unique place and has bright white spots.

These bright white spots are salt deposits and by studying these salt spots the scientists can uncover an incredible amount of information about Ceres's complex geology. According to NASA's website, while Dawn is orbiting around Ceres, she will also be collecting neutron spectra and gamma ray. These collections will further help the scientists at NASA understand the chemical makeup of the surface of Ceres.

According to NASA, this is the closest Dawn has gotten to Ceres. Dawn was able to get 22 miles away from the planet's surface, which was closer than they predicted earlier this year. According to the NASA's website, their earlier prediction was less than 30 miles (50 kilometers) from the surface. Granted it was less than 30 miles, but I do not think they were expecting to get that close. I am sure NASA is bustling around like honeybees in a hive examing all of Dawn's pictures that she has taken this week.Six allies are upset with President Donald Trump after he increased taxes on steel and aluminum. The Group of Seven countries that were affected are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom. The affected countries are considered to be the worlds largest economies and the presidents action could possibly lead to a global trade war.

G-7 expresses their disagreements

According to CNN, the announcement took place in Whistler, Canada on Saturday, June 2, at a press conference for the G7 summit. US Treasury Secretary, Steven Mnuchin, was at the meeting as a representative for the United States as he listened to the finance ministers complain from each country that was in attendance.

Mnuchin stated that he would sit down and discuss everyones frustrations to the president when he returns to Washington.

The G7 Summit was supposed to be a gathering to discuss the goals and achievements of the global economy but it ended up being a heated debate instead. All of the finance ministers from each country that were present stated that imposing tariffs on the allies could cause division among them and affect overall economic growth.

Canada, the European Union, and Mexico have stated that they plan to retaliate against the United States after Trump imposed tariffs on them. Trump signed an agreement that went into effect on Friday and it stated that there will be a 25 percent import tariff on steel and 10 percent tariff on aluminum.

On Twitter, Trump tweeted, "The United States must, at long last, be treated fairly on Trade. If we charge a country ZERO to sell their goods, and they charge us 25, 50 or even 100 percent to sell ours, it is UNFAIR and can no longer be tolerated. That is not Free or Fair Trade, it is Stupid Trade!"

The United States must, at long last, be treated fairly on Trade. If we charge a country ZERO to sell their goods, and they charge us 25, 50 or even 100 percent to sell ours, it is UNFAIR and can no longer be tolerated. That is not Free or Fair Trade, it is Stupid Trade!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2018

China responded back by adding taxes on cars, soybeans, and planes.

How will the higher tariffs affect us?

Bloomberg stated that the most affected industries will be construction and automobiles. Energy, machinery, and equipment will have little effect. Other sources mentioned that the presidents decision could hurt consumers by causing more products to be expensive. A few companies such as Goldman Sachs may lose some revenue and there may be an increase in unemployment in the construction, steel, and aluminum industry.

Former president George W. Bush implemented higher tariffs on steel and aluminum back in 2002 and about 200,000 employees lost their jobs, Politico reported.Hollywood star Johnny Depp is on a European tour with his rock and roll tribute band, Hollywood Vampires. However, his images that are circulating on social media have become a matter of concern for his fans who are accustomed to seeing him in the garb of Jack Sparrow. Right now, he does not sport his trademark tan, long hair, mustache and beard associated with the main character of Pirates of the Caribbean. The New Zealand Herald reports that some of his fans are not able to accept his new image and are worried that he may not be well. They feel it could be a result of his legal problems or due to his tour schedule that has left him exhausted.

Fans of Johnny Depp wish him well

It all started with images of the star that appeared on social media. The photos were snapped at the Four Seasons Hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia. Johnny Depp is shown with a new mohawk hairstyle and he appears to be pale and out of form. He is on a European tour with his rock band Hollywood Vampires and his fans are naturally concerned about his health. Fans of the 54-year-old Hollywood star (he is turning 55 on June 9) are spread across the world and a section of them feel he is cultivating a new image for one of his forthcoming films. He, like any other actor, is a perfectionist and wants to ensure that his on-screen character will be flawless with respect to appearance and mannerisms.

He has been nominated for three Academy Awards since he launched his career more than three decades back.

Harry Potter spinoff will feature Johnny Depp

According to Fox News, the Pirates of the Caribbean actor is expected to return to the big screen later this year. It will be in a Harry Potter movie where he will portray the role of Grindelwald.

The film is Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. J.K. Rowling has stuck to her decision to cast Johnny Depp in spite of some domestic issues he had with his ex-wife Amber Heard. Johnny is currently on a European tour with his rock group, Hollywood Vampires. He plays guitar alongside rock veterans Alice Cooper and Joe Perry, but the images that have appeared on social media have left his well-wishers worried.

Let us hope that the fears of his ill health are nothing but figments of imagination.

Billboard adds that the actor had been involved in a number of legal disputes in the recent past and faced divorce proceedings from actress Amber Heard. He had to part with a $7 million divorce settlement and she donated the amount to charity.Intrigue, mystery, and danger are in the air on General Hospital, thanks to an unknown assailant. A mystery person has kidnapped Peter August and now seems to be pulling all the strings. Maxie, Nina, Valentin, Anna, Robert, Jason, San, Drew, and other Port Charles residents are trying to figure out what is going on. No one will be safe until all the pieces are placed in this puzzle. Lives will continue to be disrupted as long as the mystery man or woman remains anonymous and the flash drive with Drews memories is found. There is a lot to be wrapped up during the final two months of this current storyline.

Peter August is key

General Hospital is less than two months from being wrapped up. A key to concluding this storyline is Peter August. On Thursday (May 31), Valentin was found sitting in Peters jail cell, while Mr. August was shown going into his Aurora office. Before he could gather his things, an unknown assailant knocked him out and began dragging his body out of the room, as the flash drive fell from his hand to the floor.

No face was shown so its not known whether Peters kidnapper is a man or woman. Whoever it is will more than likely play a role in concluding this nine-month storyline. Everyone in Port Charles, except his mother Anna, is angry with him. They know Valentin traded places with him but have no idea he has been abducted.

Pandemonium in Port Charles

Jason and Sam were shocked to see that Valentin had replaced Peter in his cell and later warned Anna, who is delusional and believes she is in no danger. Maxie woke up screaming from a nightmare where Faisons son was in her hospital room announcing himself to be Henrik. Robert is eager to see that Mr.

August is apprehended and taken away by the WSB, while Drew refused to help him in exchange for the flash drive. Pandemonium is breaking out in Port Charles and no one as of yet realizes that Peter has been abducted or who is behind it.

Nina, Lulu, and Maxie are all in shock that they let Peter into their lives and he turned out to be Henrik.

Anna wants to get to know her son but he wants nothing to do with her. So many lives are disrupted and now a mystery person is involved. Could Faison or Nathan possibly still be alive, or is someone else in Port Charles pulling the strings? Perhaps the mystery man is someone completely unknown. Stay tuned to General Hospital weekday afternoons at 12:30 PM ET on CBS. This storyline is close to being over so things are going to really be intense.Everest Re Group Ltd. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of reinsurance and insurance services. It operates through the following segments: U.S. Reinsurance, International, Bermuda, and Insurance. The U.S. Reinsurance segment writes property and casualty reinsurance and specialty lines of business, including marine, aviation, surety, and accident and health business, on both a treaty and facultative basis, through reinsurance brokers, as well as directly with ceding companies primarily within the U.S. The International segment offers foreign property and casualty reinsurance through Everest Re's branches in Canada and Singapore and through offices in Brazil, Miami, and New Jersey. The Bermuda segment comprises reinsurance and insurance to worldwide property and casualty markets through brokers and directly with ceding companies from its Bermuda office and reinsurance to the United Kingdom and European markets through its UK branch and Ireland Re. The Insurance segment writes property and casualty insurance directly and through brokers, surplus lines brokers, and general agents within the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The company was founded in 1999 and is headquartere

Read MoreChina Unicom (Hong Kong) Limited, an investment holding company, provides cellular and fixed-line voice, and related value-added services in the People's Republic of China. It also provides broadband and other Internet-related, information communications technology, and business and data communications services. In addition, the company offers communications technology training, technical, and Internet information and value-added telecommunications services; telecommunications network construction, planning, and technical consulting services; and consultancy, survey, design, and contract services relating to information and construction projects. Further, it provides customer, project design consultation and management, property management, e-payment, venture capital investment, communications technology development and promotion, auto informatisation, financial, data processing, and tourism and information services; advertising design, production, agency, and publication services; technology development, transfer, and consulting services; and technology promotion service of intelligent transportation system's products. Additionally, the company offers technology development and consultation, and other services; technology research and development, consultation, and services of TV video and mobile video; internet of things technology, and online data processing and transaction services; and big data, and cloud computation and infrastructure services. It also provides online video and reading materials; network music; financing leasing services; and data analysis and application services, as well as sells handsets and telecommunication equipment. As of December 31, 2019, it had approximately 254 million 4G subscribers, 83 million fixed-line broadband subscribers, and 54 million fixed-line local access subscribers. The company was incorporated in 2000 and is based in Central, Hong Kong. China Unicom (Hong Kong) Limited is a subsidiary of China Unicom (BVI) Limited.

Read MoreWall Street analysts have given Enel Generacion Chile a "N/A" rating, but there may be better buying opportunities in the stock market. Some of MarketBeat's past winning trading ideas have resulted in 5-15% weekly gains. MarketBeat just released five new stock ideas, but Enel Generacion Chile wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.Michael Tye in Inference Review:

In an essay entitled, Philosophy and the Scientific Image of Man, the American philosopher Wilfrid Sellars argued that our allegiances are divided between the manifest and the scientific image of the world. On the manifest image, the world comprises people, pains, and puzzles; on the scientific image, nothing more than various quantum fields. It is the scientific image that takes ontological pride of place. But if colorless quantum fields are really real, what are we to say about colored roses, which are really red?

There is an obvious gap between the manifest and scientific image of the world. How could roses be red? One venerable philosophical answer is that roses are red in virtue of how they are experienced. But experience is itself no less mysterious than color. We are subjects of experience; quantum fields are not. Questions of this sort have persuaded David Chalmers tentatively to embrace what he calls naturalistic dualism. For all that, dualism is still dualism. Many philosophers have resisted following him into the badlands. The stay-behinds hope to make sense of consciousness in a way that does justice to its richness while somehow embedding it in the scientific side of things.

In his new book, Daniel Dennett argues that all parties to this discussion, while rarely in doubt, are nonetheless in error. There is no point in bridging the gap between the manifest and scientific image of the world because no such gap exists. The manifest image, Dennett argues, is a user illusion.

More here.Secunder Kermani at the BBC:

It was the night of 16 November 2016. Mr Haider has not been seen since. Despite the CCTV video evidence both the police and intelligence services have denied in court that he is in their custody.

Mr Haider is one of 140 Pakistani Shias to have disappeared over the past two years, according to community activists. Their families believe they were taken into custody by the intelligence services. Over 25 of the missing, including Mr Haider, belong to Pakistans largest city Karachi.

Mr Haiders family say he had returned to the port city from pilgrimage in Karbala, Iraq, with his pregnant wife just two days before he was detained.

Uzma Haider has since given birth to a baby boy who has never seen his father.

My kids are always asking me, When will our dad come home?' she told the BBC. What answer can I give them? No-one is telling us where he is or how he is. At least tell us what hes accused of.

More here.Legislative map splitting Brown County into two districts is preferred option

State legislators heard from about 20 people Tuesday afternoon in Aberdeen in response to four proposed legislative district maps.Prev 1 of 5 Next

When Suzanne Hudson begins crafting a quilt, she dreams and prays, dreams and prays.

Her tribute to The Long Walk will hang at the Bosque Redondo Memorial Commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Navajo Treaty of 1868 at Fort Sumner on June 8-10.

On June 1, 1868, a delegation of Navajo leaders signed a treaty with the United States, allowing the Navajos to leave internment at Bosque Redondo, Fort Sumner, and return to the ancestral homeland.

In the old days, you had the penny arcades with the old films, Hudson said. Well, thats what I see. Sometimes, if I have a dream, Ill wake up crying.

The Navajo quilter is from Sheep Springs, N.M., near Farmington. She began quilting after watching her mother stitch quilts from clothing scraps.

You would say, Oh, that little piece was my shirt,' she said. That fascinated me.

The Long Walk resulted from the 1864 deportation and attempted ethnic cleansing of more than 10,000 Navajos and Mescalero Apaches. Soldiers forced them to walk from their land in what is now Arizona to eastern New Mexico. Nearly one-third of those interned at Bosque Redondo died of disease, exposure and hunger.

Hudsons three-and-four-times great-grandmothers survived the trauma. She began making quilts at the urging of then-U.S. Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (Colorado), who took the textiles to Northern Cheyenne ceremonies.

It was Campbell who suggested Hudson create works based on Native American ledger art. Ledger art is a term for Plains Indian narrative drawing or painting on paper or cloth.

Hudsons first story quilt, The Walk of My Ancestors, reflected the first two years of the walk, when American soldiers sold the native children as slaves. Hudson spent 18 months stitching the piece. The collector who bought it was a survivor of Auschwitz. He donated it to Los Angeles Gene Autry Museum, Hudson said. The images in her latest Long Walk quilt show starving adults attempting to work the unworkable land, children who were raped or beaten, soldiers offering them a can of food.

You would do anything for that can of food, Hudson said, even if that means yes to raping you. It makes people think.

Upside down crosses symbolize the three evils driving the invaders, she said: Gold, the greed and the god that destroyed us.

Thats why I put the crosses upside down  because that wasnt our religion.

A close look reveals children with blond hair.

I was showing the evidence of the rape, Hudson said.

But there were soldiers who fell in love with the Navajo and I showed them with their families.

Hudsons next quilt will be a boarding school quilt to hang in Arizonas Heard Museum.It is little more than a footnote in the back-and-forth over the planned North Korea summit  but the rumor of a McDonalds in Pyongyang is juicier than a three-patty Big Mac.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may allow a Western hamburger franchise into the country as a show of goodwill to the United States, according to an intelligence report described by U.S. officials to NBC. That follows remarks by South Korean adviser Chung-in Moon in late April, who said that North Korea might be interested in welcoming a McDonalds as tensions ease.

Compared to the threat of nuclear war, of course, a Pyongyang McDonalds seems like small fries. But experts and history suggest theres more at play here than one token franchise.

McDonalds has long been seen as a symbol of Western culture and capitalism  particularly in communist countries. And its expansion into China and Russia was seen as a landmark in the 1990s.

This has happened with a number of different communist cultures, said Jenny Town, a research analyst at the Stimson Center and the managing editor of 38 North, an academic news site about North Korea. Once they start to get different points of contact with the West, it changes their views  and it usually starts with McDonalds or Coca-Cola.

  

From its earliest days, McDonalds has been more than a fast-food restaurant. It is also a vector for American culture and a powerful symbol of globalization. In the 1970s, when the chain expanded into Europe, it used the tagline United Tastes of America in its ad campaigns. It also promised to bring all-American business values  speed, standardization and ruthless efficiency  to the countries where it operated.

That promise has panned out pretty well. McDonalds now operates 37,241 more-or-less identical, highly profitable locations in 120 countries. In his book Grinding It Out: The Making of McDonalds, founder Ray Kroc calls the company my personal monument to capitalism.

That may explain why the companys expansion into communist countries has been treated as a milestone in the past. When Moscow got its first franchise in 1990, Russians waited in line for hours to eat at what USA Today called this citys new symbol of capitalism. (Even the recent finale of FXs The Americans, a show about Russian spies in the United States, includes a dramatic McDonalds visit.)

Not long after its Russian debut, McDonalds began popping up in Beijing and Shenzhen. Chinese customers hated the food, ethnographer Yunxiang Yan found, but loved the aura of prosperity and progress.

In the eyes of Beijing residents, he wrote in 1997, McDonalds represents Americana and the promise of modernization.

  

But could McDonalds represent even more than that? In 1996, New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman floated for the first time what would become a fairly infamous theory: Two countries with McDonalds restaurants would never go to war, he said, because they shared globalized, middle-class economies.

The prediction came at an apt moment: McDonalds was in the midst of what one analyst at the time called a mind-boggling global expansion. Between 1967 and 1987, the chain expanded into an average of two countries per year. By the mid-90s, the pace had accelerated to 10 countries  most of them communist, ex-communist and developing, according to the Economist.

But proud as McDonalds may have been of its breakneck growth  in 1996 Belarus became the chains 100th conquest  Friedmans theory on the pacifying powers of the Golden Arches was promptly disproved. Critics pointed out that McDonalds had not stopped the United States from invading Panama in 1989. Several other McDonalds countries have also tangled since then, including India and Pakistan (1999), Israel and Lebanon (2006), Russia and Georgia (2008) and Russia and Ukraine (2014). (Friedman was not immediately available to comment.)

Tellingly, McDonalds itself became a target of political ire during that last conflict. After Russia annexed Crimea, forcing three McDonalds to shut down, a nationalist politician called for the closure of all the chains Russian locations.

I want them to get out of my sight, Vladimir Zhirinovsky said. Then we will deal with Pepsi-Cola  another highly symbolic American brand.

  

Even though Friedmans theory hasnt held in its specifics, experts say there is something to the notion that greater cultural and economic ties between countries can reduce conflict. Friedmans idea jibes in some ways with a popular theory in international relations, which argues that capitalism promotes peace in part because countries share foreign policy goals when they compete on the same open market.

Separate from that, Town, of 38 North, said McDonalds can expose people to a side of the United States with which they may be unfamiliar. That can help moderate negative views in places such as North Korea, where anti-American propaganda is widespread.

Town said she thinks it would make sense for McDonalds to open in Pyongyang. It would probably be popular: North Korea has approached McDonalds about franchising in the recent past, she said, but has had to turn to Singaporean burger knockoffs instead. (A spokesman for McDonalds did not respond to a request for comment.)

Kim Jong Un is also believed to like burgers: In 2011, a South Korean newspaper reported that his father regularly had McDonalds flown from China on Air Koryo jets. And President Donald Trump is, of course, a big fan of fast-food as well. According to NBC, Kim hopes to open a chain in Pyongyang in part to cater meals for future bilateral conferences.

But Kayla Orta, an analyst in the History and Public Policy Program at the bipartisan Wilson Center, said she could not imagine that happening.

Perhaps the day we see American-style fast food restaurants in North Korea will be the day cultural diplomacy triumphs, she said. But were a long way off from that day.In May 2016, Lewis Christman was flying from Chicago to Rome when he suffered a bout of acute pancreatitis. He curled into a fetal position on the floor. He spent the next seven hours in agony while the plane flew on. The next three months, he spent in hospitals.

This month, Christman sued , accusing United Continental Holdings of ignoring a recommendation from a doctor on board to divert the flight and failing to contact medical consultants on the ground. It was another round of bad publicity for United and one that draws scrutiny to how U.S. air carriers treat passengers in distress and the pressure to keep flights in the air.

Obviously, there is a significant cost to landing the plane, said David Axelrod, Christmans lawyer. Were looking for all the information about this incident, where my poor client is doubled over in pain and hes vomiting and theyre not landing this plane.

A medical emergency sets in motion a high-altitude calculation with human lives in the balance. While pilots are the ultimate decisionmakers, airlines have earth-bound medical consultants that help bypass on-board volunteers  reducing expensive emergency landings, but with the potential of providing expert decisions in real time.

Christmans suit seeks information about the incident from Phoenix-based MedAire Inc., which provides in-flight medical advice to more than 100 airlines. Company spokeswoman Mandy Eddington declined to comment on the lawsuit or any relationship with United.

Paulo Alves, MedAires global medical director of aviation health, said in an interview before the suit was filed that his company provides help from doctors with extensive experience. Just 1.6 percent of flights in which MedAire is called are diverted. He said airlines see the value in bypassing medicos who happen to be aboard.

If the model was not financially interesting for them, then they wouldnt hire us, Alves said. Doctors, they tend to recommend diversions more than we do, because of course they dont want to assume the long-term responsibility.

A medical emergency occurs once every 604 flights and 7.3 percent led to diversions, according to a 2013 New England Journal of Medicine study. It also found that 0.3 percent of emergencies on planes end in deaths.

Its fairly expensive to divert an aircraft, and so a captain has to take into account a whole host of issues, said Jose Nable, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and co-author of a 2017 paper on in-flight emergencies. Perry Flint, a spokesman for the International Air Transport Association airline trade group, said his organization estimates that a diversion can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $200,000.

Erin Benson Scharra, a United Airlines spokeswoman said the company is investigating Christmans claims, but declined to speak further about medical diversions or consultants it employs.

Companies like MedAire, housed in the emergency unit of the Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix, play a key role in diversion decisions. STAT-MD Inc., which offers a similar service and uses doctors from the University of Pittsburgh, works with around 20 national and international air carriers. It says it reduces landings that would otherwise be recommended by nervous and out-of-their-element doctors in the sky.

Theyre going to revert to divert, said T.J. Doyle, the medical director for STAT-MD. The medical volunteer should be a data-gatherer and a procedure-doer. They should not be a decision-maker.

The emergencies encountered by medical professionals on flights vary in severity. Internal medicine doctor Gina Jabbour of New York revived an elderly woman who fainted after using the bathroom. The flight continued on schedule and Jabbour was rewarded by a flight attendant with secret cookies.

Scott Schoifet, an orthopedic surgeon, was dozing on a flight from Japan to New York in 2006 when he was awakened to help a fellow passenger with chest pain. Flight attendants asked Schoifet whether it was safe to continue flying.

It was stressful first because theyre looking at me like, What do you want to do? Schoifet said. I cant make this decision. Theres 350 people on the plane.

He checked in with the woman for the rest of the flight until she disembarked at a stop in Detroit, and then the plane continued on.

This month, a Delta Air Lines passenger passed out before takeoff at Fort Lauderdales airport. The person was treated by none other than Surgeon General Jerome Adams, who was traveling from Florida to Mississippi for a discussion on the opioid epidemic. The plane was still on the tarmac, and Adams helped evaluate the traveler, who ended up going to the hospital.

Medical emergencies on planes set in motion a chain reaction. Elise May, the manager of inflight safety and regulatory compliance for Southwest Airlines, said flight attendants first protect themselves. Then they page for a medical professional on board. Southwests flight attendants are trained in basic care, and are equipped with iPads that have manuals and headsets to contact ground-based consultants.

The decision on whether to divert is ultimately made by the pilot and dispatcher, but it is dependent a lot on our medical consultant and what they feel is the danger of the situation, May said. Theres all sorts of things to take into consideration.

Doctors are protected by a federal law that protects air carriers and individuals from liability while providing assistance in the air. But the Hippocratic oath remains their lodestar.

Ethically, I feel like there is this responsibility for me to intervene, said Meera Shah, a New York doctor who helped revive a woman passed out on a plane this year. What if I wasnt there? I always think about that.A long-awaited, simple and contemplative memorial park will soon stand at the West Mesa site where the bodies of 11 slain women and an unborn child were discovered in 2009.

City leaders, elected officials, family and friends on Saturday broke ground for the Womens Memorial Park, a 2-acre site at 118th Street and Amole Mesa SW in Albuquerque, that was deeded in 2016 to the city by developer KB Homes. Other easements were finalized in April.

A group of modest wooden crosses adorned with plastic flowers have stood guard over the site, but not for much longer as city officials say construction is set to start soon.

Prior to the ground-breaking, elected officials spoke to the assembled gathering among photos of the 11 women. A small teddy bear sitting in a chair represented the unborn child of Michelle Valdez.

After praising individuals, family and friends for working to get the memorial constructed, Mayor Tim Keller said the site would soon transform this place of tragedy to one of healing and memorial.

This park will provide a sanctuary for families, friends and community members who knew these women and also a place to remember the joyful times that many of us spent with your loved ones, Keller said to those in attendance. While this project has taken a long time to come to fruition, I want you to know that your loved ones are not forgotten. This unimaginable grief that many of the families feel here today will not be forgotten by our city or by our police department or by those who fight everyday to prevent this kind of thing from happening.

About $400,000 in funding came from the city, with another $70,000 provided by a state grant. However, more funding is needed, according to Councilor Klarissa J. Pena, who represents District 3, the southwest part of Albuquerque. She also recognized the work of the victims families to bring the memorial to reality.

You guys have been phenomenal  your patience to work with me and the city to make sure these things happen, Pena said to family members. The family members picked the trees, shrubbery, the design. This is your project. We were able to contribute to it, but this is your project, your vision.

Plans call for the park to contain an oval turf area surrounded by a sidewalk dotted with 11 engraved memorials  one for each woman. Across from each memorial, a bench will stand beneath a variety of trees selected by each womans relatives: Raywood Ash for Monica Candelaria and Evelyn Salazar; Virginia Cloven for Julie Nieto, Michelle Valdez and Veronica Romero; Urbanite Ash for Cinnamon Elks and Jamie Barela; and Ornamental Pear for Victoria Chavez, Doreen Marquez and Syllannia Edwards.

The case remains unsolved. Albuquerque Police Department Chief of Staff John Ross said the department will strive to bring the case to a close.

We never want to give up hope for the victims, and were not going to give up, Ross said. Every detective, every officer who worked this case feels the same way. Its personal to all of them. We all want to bring this case to a conclusion and provide whatever closure possible for the families.

Family members were invited to speak. One of those was Julie Gonzales, whose sister Doreen Marquez is one of the victims.

Im glad its happening, finally, Gonzales said. Since the day they found my sister, they said they were going to build this park. Almost nine, 10 years later  Im mad, but Im glad at the same time that its finally happening.

Gonzales then introduced Marquezs children to those assembled  Mercedes Chavez, who is about to begin her senior year at the University of New Mexico, and Destinie Marquez, who is about to begin medical school at UNM with a goal to become a pediatrician.RUIDOSO DOWNS  Randy Smiths homebred C Twister Seis, sent off at 5-1 odds, overcame a slight bobble at the start to win the first running of the $25,000 Dash For Speed Stakes on Saturday afternoon during Red Raider weekend at Ruidoso Downs.

C Twister Seis finished a growing three quarters of a length over 8-5 favorite Carris Cartel and it was another three parts of a length back to third-place finisher American Girl Rocks in the race for fillies and mares.

She stumbled a little bit, said winning rider Felipe Garcia-Luna. Then she got up and went on running.

The Mike Joiner-trained C Twister Seis, a $120,000 Ruidoso Select Yearling Sale purchase, raced to her second win from four starts this year. The Tres Seis daughter won an optional-claiming race at Sunland Park back in January.

Last year, C Twister Seis qualified for the Grade 1, $1.1 million Rainbow Derby at Ruidoso Downs after winning her trial by one-half length.

Mancy Carrizales homebred runner-up Carris Cartel was favored after winning an allowance race at Sam Houston Race Park in her previous start. The daughter of The Louisiana Cartel is trained by Marcos Carrizales and ridden by Santos Carrizales.

Armando Diaz Jr.s third-place finisher American Girl Rocks has moved up from the claiming ranks and enhanced her value with a stakes placing. She was claimed for $5,000 back in July and was third in an optional-claiming race at SunRay Park in her prior start.

Jesse E Ramos trains American Girl Rocks, a daughter of American Runaway, and she was ridden by Sergio Becerra Jr.

The race is named after world champion Dash For Speed, who won seven grade 1 races at Ruidoso Downs in the late 1980s. She was the second horse to sweep the three Grade 1 derbies at Ruidoso Downs  the Kansas (now Ruidoso) Derby, Rainbow Derby and All American Derby. She is a member of the Ruidoso Downs Racehorse Hall of Fame.

The Dash For Cash daughter was trained by Larry Keiter, who traveled from Wichita, Kan.,to present the trophy. It was an honor to have her and I am so grateful that there is a race named after her here at Ruidoso Downs, said Keiter. Its wonderful.

FUTURITY TRIALS: Dale Taylor, B.J. McQueen and Suzanne Kirbys Hustle Up stand out in the two trials to the $122,688 Mountain Top New Mexico-Bred Thoroughbred Futurity on Friday afternoon at Ruidoso Downs.

The top-five finishers in each trial advance to the Mountain Top New Mexico-Bred Thoroughbred Futurity at five furlongs on June 23.

The trials will run as the fifth and eighth races.

Hustle Up, a gelding sired by Abstraction, became his sires first winner when he won his trial to the $162,500 Copper Top Futurity on March 24. He then stepped up to dominate the Copper Top Futurity. He went to the lead in the four-and-one-half furlong stakes and when challenged drew out to a seven-and-one-half length win in 51.55 seconds. That gave trainer Todd Fincher his third consecutive Copper Top Futurity score.

Tracy Hebert rides Hustle Up from the ninth post position.

Owner R.D. Hubbard (with partners) with trainer Casey Lambert have horses in each trial coming off wins.

Hubbard and Paul Blanchards Stealing Home was second to Hustle Up in the Copper Top and then traveled to SunRay Park to win the Ken Kendrick Memorial Stakes by an impressive 10 lengths, her most recent start.

Regular rider Elvin Gonzalez will be aboard Stealing Home.

In the second trial Hubbard and Shaun Hubbards Sunscreen is the 5/2 morning-line favorite after winning her debut. She closed and then drew out to a one-and-one-quarter-length score in a Sunland Park maiden race on April 17.

Gonzalez gets the call on Sunscreen and they start from the fourth post position.

Stealing Home and Sunscreen are each bred by R.D. Hubbard and sired by Southwestern Heat.

Southwestern Heat is sired by Gone West and we really liked Gone West when our operation was in Kentucky, said Tom Goncharoff, manager of Hubbards Crystal Springs Farm. Gone West was built like a sprinter and his offspring could carry their speed up to a mile on the turf or dirt. Southwestern Heat had his sires conformation.

Southwestern Heat, out of champion Xtra Heat, died last year due to complications from colic.Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Michelle Lujan Grisham understated her income from Delta Consulting  the company that helps run New Mexicos high-risk insurance pool  when she filed a 2013 financial disclosure form as a member of Congress.

Rep. Lujan Grisham reported about $138,000 in passive income from Delta Consulting  the firm she co-founded in 2008  on her 2013 tax return.

But she reported just $50,000 to $100,000 in income from the company on the financial disclosure report she filed for that year with the clerks office of the U.S. House of Representatives. The form requires ranges, not an exact amount.

Lujan Grishams campaign said Saturday that the congresswoman has already submitted an amendment to the U.S. House to fix the discrepancy.

An honest mistake was made, campaign manager Dominic Gabello said Saturday. When we were going through her tax returns, we noticed the discrepancy.

Lujan Grisham voluntarily posted five years of tax returns to her campaign website last week as a show of transparency.

Politico, a national news organization, reported the income discrepancy Saturday morning.

State Sen. Joseph Cervantes, a Las Cruces lawyer and one of Lujan Grishams rivals for the Democratic nomination, said the misstated income is not a rounding error or similar mistake.

Its an inaccuracy of up to $88,000, he said, the difference between the $50,000 range she reported to Congress and the $138,000 on her tax return.

How many New Mexicans are off in their reported income by $88,000? Cervantes said in an interview.

Jeff Apodaca, a former media executive also seeking the Democratic nomination, used the discrepancy revealed Saturday to announce a three-part anti-corruption plan.

As governor, he said, he would push to prohibit elected officials from having state contracts, require candidates to release their tax returns, and establish an online database to track campaign donations to lawmakers who sponsor bill affecting the donors industry.

The Grisham/Delta scandal exposed how New Mexico lawmakers have abused their power to bilk taxpayers out of millions  charging our sickest New Mexicans more  while lining their pockets, Apodaca said in a written statement.

Lujan Grisham, a Democrat from Albuquerque, has faced intense criticism from her opponents over the last week, centering on her ties to Delta, which has repeatedly won state contracts to run an insurance pool for people who otherwise have trouble getting coverage.

Critics say the pool is obsolete now that the Affordable Care Act is in place  which Lujan Grisham strongly disputes.

In any case, she divested herself from the firm last year. She co-founded Delta in 2008 with Deborah Armstrong, her campaign treasurer and a Democratic member of the state House.

Apodaca has called on Lujan Grisham to drop out of the gubernatorial race, accusing her and Armstrong of exerting political influence to help their company.

State Insurance Superintendent John Franchini, chairman of the medical insurance pools board, told the Journal last month that Delta won the state contracts through a competitive bidding process.

The states Governmental Conduct Act allows elected officials to contract with state government, but only if the contract is issued after competitive bidding and if the elected officials publicly disclose their interest  conditions that appear to have been met, at least in recent years.

Cervantes and Apodaca, meanwhile, also attacked Lujan Grisham in recent days over her introduction of a bill in Congress that would have affected high-risk insurance at the federal level. The 2013 bill, HR 3783, sought to extend a temporary high risk health insurance pool program for a year. It was never passed.

Democrats need a candidate for governor whos committed to ethics and beyond question in terms of their motivations for wanting to hold that office, Cervantes said Saturday.

Gabello, in turn, said Lujan Grisham was simply trying to ensure people had access to health care coverage.

The Obamacare markets were in disarray in the fall of 2013, he said. They suffered from a failed rollout, and there was a concern that too many seriously sick people would sign up for plans, thus causing a huge spike in premiums the following year.

In response to calls from her constituents to work to save the Affordable Care Act and keep premiums low, Michelle offered a solution to her colleagues to stabilize the markets.Police have identified the victims of a triple homicide at a home on the outskirts of Dixon, N.M. last week.

New Mexico State Police Officer Ray Wilson said Abraham Martinez, 36, April Browne, 42, and Kierin Guillemin, 27, as the three people police found dead Wednesday night inside a home on N.M. 580 in Canoncito, about two miles outside Dixon.

Police have not said how the three died or how long they had been dead when officers found them.

On Friday evening, State Police arrested John Powell, 34, and Roger Gage, 33, in connection to the killings.

Both men are charged with three counts of first-degree murder, and a count each of conspiracy and aggravated burglary.

Someone called police Wednesday evening after seeing the bodies through the window of the home.

When officers arrived around 8 p.m. they found the three dead inside.

Neighbors and others in the village believe the killings were drug-related.

State Police have not released anymore details and a spokesman could not be reached for comment Saturday evening.Primary election season is an exciting time in New Mexico.

County clerks are hard at work making sure their voting locations are ready for the waves of voters eager to cast their ballot. My staff is tying up loose ends to make sure everything runs smoothly on Election Day.

In many ways, New Mexicos primary election is a great example of the power of American democracy. However, there is one change we could make that would significantly improve the electoral process for all New Mexico voters  a switch to an open primary system.

Currently under New Mexico law, voters may only participate in a primary election if they register to vote with one of the states three major political parties  Democratic, Libertarian or Republican  at least 28 days prior to primary Election Day.

To understand why this is such a real problem we need to take a closer look at our current voter registration data.

Of the 1,233,513 individuals registered to vote in New Mexico, 950,032 are affiliated with one of the three major political parties. The other 283,481 voters either chose not to be affiliated with any political party or registered with one of the states many minor parties. That means about 23 percent of all New Mexico voters will be forced to watch from the sidelines during this primary election.

Its difficult to say that we have a fair and equal voting process when a large segment of the voting population isnt allowed to have a say in who the general election candidates will be.

I support moving to an open primary system here in New Mexico.

In particular, I support a modified open primary model that would allow independent and minor party voters to choose one major political partys ballot to mark in a primary election. Democrats would still vote in the Democratic primary, Republicans would still vote in the Republican primary and Libertarians would still vote in the Libertarian primary. The only change? Every independent and minor party voter would choose one primary major party ballot to cast their vote.

This version of the open primary guarantees every voter has the same opportunity to make their voice heard.

Some opponents of open primaries worry that independent or minor party voters might try to flood one partys primary to game the system against particular candidates. But these fears are unfounded when you consider that independent and minor party voters could already do this in the current system by registering to vote in large numbers with one of the major parties right before the primary election. The reality is that just doesnt happen.

The benefits are obvious. Open primaries contribute to a healthy democracy by forcing candidates to listen to all voters, rather than a select few. In these polarized times, we would all benefit from a more open political dialogue that includes a wider variety of voices and from campaigns working to garner support from a broader spectrum of voters.

Im going to push for an open primary system here in New Mexico, but I cant do it alone. We need our lawmakers to pass legislation creating an open primary system that makes sense for New Mexicos voters, and we need a governor who will sign it into law.

Ill do my part by continuing to work with good government advocacy groups, like New Mexico Open Primaries, leading up to and during next years legislative session to find enough lawmakers to champion the cause and get the job done.

Our democracy is at its strongest when we maximize the number of voters who participate in the electoral process. Unfortunately, countless New Mexico voters have been left out due to an outdated primary election system that counts certain voters but not others.

Thats unacceptable, so lets change the system together.For many veterans, words cannot adequately describe the meaning of protected public lands to those who have returned from duty. Hiking to a mountaintop, the rush of river rafting, camping deep in a New Mexico forest are all experiences made possible by public lands set aside for reflection and recreation.

Many of the most spectacular public lands we enjoy were protected through the Antiquities Act, signed into law 112 years ago on June 8 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Roosevelt keenly observed that the looting of treasured artifacts and development interests were imminent dangers to Americas most special places. He also knew that if he waited for the slow process of Congressional approval to protect these places, the damage would be irreversible.

And so was born the Antiquities Act of 1906, giving presidents the power to designate national monuments and protect federal lands that contain historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, or other objects of historic or scientific interest. Within three years, Roosevelt had designated more than a dozen national monuments including the Grand Canyon National Monument, which subsequently became a national park and is now recognized worldwide as the symbol of the American West.

Alarmingly, the conservation gains made under the Antiquities Act have been attacked by a well-known veteran with an especially distinguished record of service. Were speaking about our Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, who while claiming to be a disciple of Theodore Roosevelt has had a hand in undoing Roosevelts Antiquities Act legacy and overseeing the largest rollback of public lands protections in history.

Roosevelts Antiquities Act has been responsible for saving such popular attractions in New Mexico as the White Sands National Monument, the largest pure gypsum dune field in the world; Bandelier National Monument, which provides an important window into our native ancestral origins, and El Malpais National Monument with its dramatic lava fields and caves for exploration. More recently, Rio Grande del Norte and Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monuments were designated, attracting more visitors to important sites in New Mexicos history and a wide array of recreation opportunities.

We veterans count on our national public lands for recreation and healing. In addition, our military history is protected in these lands  from Civil War battlefields to the remnants of the Deming Air Base practice bombing sites in Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks, where pilots trained for pivotal overseas missions during World War II. We believe that protecting our national public lands is a patriotic duty.

But apparently not Interior Secretary Zinke. In his first year he conducted a review of 27 national monuments, recommended a drastic shrinkage of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante and encouraged President Trump to reduce the size of other monuments. In his recap of Interiors 2017 accomplishments, Zinke asserted that he is creating a conservation stewardship legacy, second only to Teddy Roosevelt  all the while opening up new public lands to energy development and taking away protections in place for decades. This is precisely what President Roosevelt feared most and fought.

Roosevelt famously said to wilderness advocate John Muir while looking over the Yosemite Valley: Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your childrens children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.

Roosevelt knew our public lands are our heritage, and he championed the Antiquities Act to help keep Americas history, culture and outdoor treasures intact. We who fought to protect American values understand this. Along with the many veterans who have relied on our national monuments and other protected public lands for peace, solitude, recreation and more, our hope as we celebrate the 112th anniversary of the Antiquities Act is for Interior Secretary Zinke to understand this as well, and finally begin to lead like Theodore Roosevelt.Five years ago today, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the legality of collecting DNA from those who are arrested for committing serious crimes. In Maryland v. King, the Supreme Court issued one of the most consequential rulings in its history, allowing law enforcement to use a critically important tool that saves lives, prevents crimes and brings criminals  such as rapists and murderers  to justice.

Likened by the Supreme Court to a modern-day fingerprint, DNA collected from an arrestee is able to be compared against DNA taken from crime scenes across America. In New Mexico alone, felony arrestee DNA has been matched to more than 1,500 cold cases since 2007. And in Maryland v. King, Alonzo Kings DNA from an arrest in 2009 linked him to a rape from six years earlier, and his conviction for that rape was upheld.

New Mexico has been a leader in the national movement to expand the collection of DNA from arrestees. Katies Law, as our statute is known, was named in honor of Katie Sepich and was enacted in 2006. Katie was a New Mexico State University student who was raped, kidnapped, strangled to death, set on fire and abandoned in August of 2003. Skin and blood under her fingernails yielded DNA that was eventually linked to her murderer, whom I prosecuted as a district attorney in 2006. Katies killer had been arrested for a felony crime just two months after her death, but because New Mexico did not have a law allowing for DNA to be collected upon arrest, Katies murder went unsolved for nearly three years.

In 2011, shortly after I became governor, New Mexico enacted an expansion of Katies Law that requires all felony arrestees to have their DNA collected  not just those who had been convicted of violent felonies. As a result, the expansion of Katies Law has led to an increase of approximately 93 percent in the number of DNA matches to past criminal cases. In 21 instances, DNA taken from a felony arrestee  for expanded crime categories like auto theft, burglary and drug trafficking  was matched to an earlier unsolved homicide case. And 78 DNA samples from arrestees in expanded crime categories were matched to unsolved rapes and other sexual assault cases.

Katies parents, Dave and Jayann Sepich, have traveled all over the country advocating for DNA collection laws, and due in part to their work, more than 31 states now have a statute similar to New Mexicos Katies Law on the books.

Success stories abound.

In Colorado, a successful real estate broker named William Costello was arrested for assault and his DNA matched to the rape of three teen-aged girls  one of whom was only 13 years old.

In California, a man was arrested for domestic violence, and his DNA matched to the 2004 murder case of a woman named Juanita Johnson.

And, in Florida, 26 years after the murder of her 11-year-old daughter, Jan Cornells prayers were answered when Joseph Zieler was arrested for felony aggravated battery and his DNA identified him as her daughters killer.

DNA collection has helped find and convict horrific criminals who, in the absence of these laws, would have been allowed to victimize countless others. At the same time, DNA collection has also helped exonerate the wrongly convicted.

Katies Law is working and Katies legacy lives on in the lives saved, suffering avoided, tragedies prevented and justice done. Her parents deserve our deepest gratitude for their 12-year-and-counting commitment to the expansion of DNA collection nationwide  often in the face of inexplicable resistance and even contempt in state capitals across America.

The Supreme Courts ruling five years ago validated their heroic efforts, honored the memory of Katie and countless other crime victims, and sanctioned the use of important technology to keep our communities safe and ensure that justice is properly served.Here is a recap of the Journals recommendations in contested statewide and Albuquerque-area races on the June 5 primary ballots.

Governor: Democrat Michelle Lujan Grisham

U.S. Rep. Michelle Lujan Grishams broad resume gives her the edge  she has served as a Bernalillo County commissioner, a state Cabinet secretary for 16 years under three governors and is finishing up her third term as a congresswoman. She has cultivated a good track record of constituent services and has shown the ability to take moderate positions.

Lieutenant Governor: Democrat Rick Miera

Former state representative Rick Miera knows how state government works  and doesnt  having served in the N.M. House for 24 years. He has vowed to be the states ombudsman so people feel that their problems are being addressed. And as a therapist, drug counselor and behavioral health advocate for more than 40 years, hes pledging to tackle NMs scourge of addiction and struggle with adequate access to mental health services.

State Auditor: Democrat Brian Colon

Brian Colons degrees in finance and law make him well-suited to be the next state auditor. In addition to his academic training, Colon understands the important watchdog role the office plays in ferreting out waste, fraud and abuse.

Land Commissioner: Democrat George K. Munoz

Sen. George Munoz has served in the state Legislature for 10 years. He says that as land commissioner he would work aggressively to expand renewable energy projects. And he pledges to work with the Legislature to create a coherent energy policy that leverages wind, solar and transmission and energy storage to create new revenue streams for the state.

1st Congressional District: Democrat Damon P. Martinez

Albuquerque native Damon Martinez served as New Mexicos U.S. attorney from 2014 to 2017, helping the U.S. Department of Justice get the Albuquerque Police Department on a path to reform and the University of New Mexico improve its handling of sexual assault investigations. Hes been an officer in the U.S. Armed Forces since the Sept. 11 attacks and understands the importance of N.M.s national laboratories and military bases. And he has worked in Congress for Sen. Jeff Bingaman and then-Rep. Tom Udall, knows how the system works and would be able to hit the ground running.

2nd Congressional District: Democrat Xochitl Torres Small

A water attorney and former staffer for Sen. Tom Udall, Las Cruces native Xochitl Torres Small is focused on infrastructure, private-sector jobs and common-sense immigration reform and gun-safety measures.

2nd Congressional District: Republican Monty Newman

Monty Newman is a former mayor of Hobbs, former Hobbs city commissioner and has served on various boards. He knows southern New Mexico and advocates for pragmatic solutions on issues including secure borders, the federal deficit and economic opportunities to keep young residents here.

Public Regulation Commission

District 2: Republican Jerry W. Partin

District 4: Democrat Lynda M. Lovejoy

District 5: Democrat Sandy R. Jones, Republican Joseph Aaron Bizzell

New Mexico House of Representatives

District 13: Democrat Robert Bobby Atencio

District 22: Republican Merritt Hamilton Allen

District 24: Republican Michael Joseph Meyer

District 27: Democrat William B. Pratt

District 31: Republican William R. Rehm

Bernalillo County Commission District 5: Republican James E. Smith

Bernalillo County Sheriff: Democrat Sylvester Stanley

Bernalillo County Probate Judge: Democrat Lawrence Kay

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  2018 Albuquerque Journal

WASHINGTON  Special interest groups from outside the state have flooded New Mexicos 1st Congressional District primary race with campaign cash ahead of the polls opening on Tuesday, raising questions about the sources and motivations behind the money.

Outside groups representing women, veterans, Native Americans and others have spent more than $2 million on television advertisements, direct mail, text message appeals and other media both for and against the New Mexico candidates.

The top three contenders in the Democratic primary race have, combined, raised $2.5 million for their own campaigns.

Candidates benefiting from the outside groups involvement in the 1st Congressional District race are former U.S. Attorney Damon Martinez; Debra Haaland, a Laguna Pueblo member who would be the first Native American woman elected to Congress; and former UNM law professor and civil rights activist Antoinette Sedillo Lopez.

The three had far outpaced the remaining Democratic candidates in the crowded primary field and were locked in a tight race, according to a Journal Poll published last Sunday. But 29 percent of poll respondents were undecided  and theyre the voters that outside groups and the campaigns are desperately trying to influence.

Peter Quist, research director at FollowTheMoney.org, a nonprofit that tracks money in politics, said New Mexicos 1st District contest is a prime example of how out-of-state groups are increasingly trying to tilt the scales in congressional contests across the country. Its not because theyre interested in shaping a particular states political leadership, but because they want to help decide which party wins control of the U.S. House and Senate.

It is a growing trend, Quist said of the outside spending, adding that the 2010 Citizens United Supreme Court decision, which allowed unlimited spending by unions and both nonprofit and for-profit corporations, helped open the floodgates.

These outside groups can spend as much as they want to affect a congressional races outcome, as long as they do not coordinate with any particular campaign.

Overall, this election cycle, Martinez has been the top beneficiary from outside cash in the 1st District race, with about $1.1 million spent by groups based outside New Mexico, through May 16, according to the Washington-based Center for Responsive Politics, which compiles extensive campaign spending data.

Almost all of the money used to help Martinez  a 15-year member of the Army Reserves  came from veterans groups and a moderate political action committee organized by wealthy benefactors in places such as Chicago and New York.

Meanwhile, outside groups spent $534,000 through mid-May to benefit Sedillo Lopez in the race.

That half-million dollars in help came courtesy of the Latino Victory PAC, which aims to get Hispanic progressives elected to public office. Latino Victorys 30-second ad aims to burnish Sedillo Lopezs progressive credentials.

While running a distant third in the outside spending category, Haaland still benefited from a $230,000 ad buy from 7Gen Leaders, a political action committee financed by Indian tribes across the country. A 30-second television ad on Haalands behalf touts her support for Planned Parenthood, Medicare for all and a move toward renewable energy.

The numbers were far different when looking at the candidates own campaign coffers: More than half of both Sedillo Lopezs and Haalands direct campaign contribution came from donors outside New Mexico, while 80 percent of Martinezs came from New Mexicans.

Outside groups

John Feldman, a retired UNM law professor, longtime political observer and supporter of Haalands candidacy, said he is disturbed by the trend of outside groups involvement. He fears that it subverts local democracy.

Feldman said a bipartisan outside group called No Labels, which a Chicago Sun-Times investigation found was affiliated with the Forward Not Back political action committee running ads on behalf of Martinez and other moderate candidates around the country, is muddying the waters in the New Mexico race. Chicago White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf and former Republican New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg are among the wealthy benefactors who launched No Labels.

I dont think this guy who owns the Chicago White Sox should be making decisions about who New Mexicos congressional representatives should be, Feldman said of the attempt to help Martinez. They are doing in New Mexico what they have done across the country. I think its un-American and quite sinister.

According to its website, No Labels is working to build a durable bipartisan bloc in Congress. The group has backed Republican and Democratic moderates, sometimes triggering the ire of partisans in both parties.

At the same time, the independent expenditure arm of Emilys List  a powerful political action committee that works to elect women who support abortion rights to Congress  has been airing almost $200,000 worth of television ads in New Mexico taking issue with Martinezs record as a prosecutor and blaming him in part for Albuquerque Police Department shooting of civilians.

The Martinez campaign has characterized the ad as factually flawed and disingenuous, and he has received support from some family members of police shooting victims.

Representatives of Emilys List and Women Vote!  the groups independent expenditure arm  did not respond to the Journals request for comment on the strategy last week.

The stated mission of Women Vote! is to elect more women to Congress, said Brian Sanderoff, the Journals pollster and an expert on New Mexico politics. Rather than endorse one of the two women who are running in the 1st Congressional District Democratic primary election, Women Vote! is running ads against the strongest male candidate in the race. This strategy appears to be intended to increase the odds of electing one of the two female candidates.

Criticism

Ryan Cangiolosi, chairman of the Republican Party of New Mexico, took a swipe at all the Democratic candidates in the field and said the outside money will help ensure their support of left-wing political positions if they are elected.

Janice Arnold-Jones, the Republican nominee, does not have a primary opponent in Tuesdays election. Neither does Lloyd Princeton, the Libertarian candidate in the race.

Democrats and outside special interests groups are spending millions of dollars in this race because each radical left-wing candidate is pandering to the most liberal faction in the Democratic Party, which proves how out of touch they are with central New Mexico voters, Cangiolosi said in a statement emailed to the Journal. Not one of these candidates wants to work with the president or Republicans in Congress to advance our economy and make our state and our country stronger.

Jon Soltz, an Iraq War veteran and chairman and founder of the Washington-based VoteVets PAC, which supports Democrats and has pumped $180,000 into the New Mexico primary race on behalf of Martinez, said the group did so because it believes in Martinez, a military man. But Stoltz also said VoteVets targeted New Mexico because airing television and radio ads is inexpensive compared with larger markets in other states, and chances are that whoever wins the 1st District seat will keep it for a long time.

Indeed, only five people have held New Mexicos 1st District seat, and its occupancy has changed only when an incumbent died, retired or left it for another job or political race.

The media market was cheap, there were three candidates good enough to go up on media, and there was a coalition for Damon to win the race, which is Latinos, men and Hispanic women, Soltz said. There is a lot of talk about this being the Year of the Woman, and thats true  there are a lot of women voting. But there are two qualified, well-financed women in this race, and we felt that Damon was the stronger Latino candidate.

As for the candidates themselves, Sedillo Lopez had raised the most campaign cash as of the last Federal Elections Commission filing deadline on May 16, hauling in just over $1 million in contributions, including a $200,000 loan to herself, the Center for Responsive Politics reported. The biggest chunk of Sedillo Lopezs donations  about $254,000  came from lawyers and educators.

Haaland was second in fundraising, with $836,709, and human rights groups and retirees contributed about $222,000 of that amount.

Martinez had raised $699,263, with lawyers and retirees donating about $174,000 of his campaign funds and also including a $173,000 loan to himself.

But while Martinez was in third place for fundraising, he collected by far the largest percentage of his cash from New Mexicans, with 80 percent of his war chest coming from inside the state.

Sedillo Lopez, while leading in the money race, collected just 34 percent of her donations in-state.

About 46 percent of Haalands donations came from New Mexicans.Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

A critical election year in New Mexico  one that could establish the political pecking order for years  will begin taking shape Tuesday as voters choose the Democratic and Republican nominees for two open congressional seats, governor and other state offices.

Its the kind of shake-up that could launch new political careers, or interrupt others.

Two members of Congress  Democrat Michelle Lujan Grisham and Republican Steve Pearce  are leaving safe seats to try for the Governors Office, where the Republican incumbent, Susana Martinez, cannot run because of term limits.

And voters have a broad mix of political veterans and newcomers to choose from as they weigh the nominees to succeed Lujan Grisham and Pearce in the U.S. House.

Vacant congressional seats dont come up that often, pollster Brian Sanderoff said, and when they do, the winner usually stays there for as long as he or she would like.

In the governors race, meanwhile, Lujan Grisham faces intense competition just to win the nomination. Pearce is unopposed on the Republican side.

Democratic gubernatorial candidates Jeff Apodaca, a former media executive, and state Sen. Joseph Cervantes, a lawyer, are campaigning aggressively in the final days  questioning Lujan Grishams ties to a company thats won state contracts to help run New Mexicos high-risk insurance pool.

Lujan Grisham co-founded the business, Delta Consulting, in 2008 and shared in its profits, before divesting herself from the company last year.

In any case, shes widely seen as the front-runner in the three-way race.

A Journal Poll showed Lujan Grisham with a commanding lead in late May, capturing support from 57 percent of likely Democratic voters, according to the scientific survey by Research & Polling Inc.

Lonna Atkeson, a political science professor at the University of New Mexico, said identity politics and demographic factors are at play in the primary races. Lujan Grishams status as the only woman in the Democratic field for governor, for example, helps set her apart.

I think she has the edge, Atkeson said.

The Democratic race may also set a new disclosure standard. Under pressure from her opponents, Lujan Grisham released her tax returns for the past five years.

It might set a new precedent that all statewide candidates are expected to disclose their tax returns for transparency, which is a relatively new thing in New Mexico, said Gabriel Sanchez, a UNM professor of political science.

Democratic turnout

Democratic turnout has been strong, compared to past turnout. That may be driven by the vigorous campaigns for the nomination in the 1st and 2nd congressional districts, the Governors Office, land commissioner and lieutenant governor  all races where theres no incumbent seeking re-election.

There are also contested primaries for some House seats, the Public Regulation Commission and auditor. Races for sheriff, County Commission and other local offices round out the ballot.

More than 66,000 Democrats had cast early and absentee votes through the end of Friday, already outpacing the total early and absentee votes cast in the 2014 Democratic gubernatorial race.

About 31,000 Republicans and about 220 Libertarians have also cast ballots. There are no contested primary races for Libertarians.

Only voters registered with a major party may vote in New Mexicos primary system.

The disproportionate share of Democrats in the vote total reflects the intense competition for the nomination in high-profile races, political observers say.

Lots of people are vying for the Democratic nomination because they sense 2018 will be a good year for the Democrats due to historical trends, said Sanderoff, president of Research & Polling Inc.

The party in control of the White House  the GOP, in this case  usually loses seats at midterm elections.

Early voting ended Saturday. Polls open for Election Day at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.

Congress

The race to represent Albuquerque in Congress is particularly intense. Three Democrats have emerged as the top tier: former state Democratic Party Chairwoman Deb Haaland, former U.S. Attorney Damon Martinez and retired law professor Antoinette Sedillo Lopez.

Independent political groups have flooded the airwaves and mailboxes with negative ads  a sign that outsiders believe whoever seizes the Democratic nomination will be favored to win in the general election this fall.

Democrats have held the 1st Congressional District since the 2008 election.

But the primary appears to be incredibly close.

Martinez had support from 22 percent of likely, reliable voters in the Journal Poll, followed by Haaland at 19 percent and Sedillo Lopez at 17 percent. Twenty-nine percent were undecided.

Since then, however, one candidate, Pat Davis, dropped out and endorsed Haaland, who, if elected, would become the first Native American woman to win a seat in Congress.

In the 2nd Congressional District, meanwhile, the winner of the Republican primary is likely to be favored in the fall, though a Democrat won the seat 10 years ago, when Barack Obama was elected president.

The top GOP candidates are state Rep. Yvette Herrell, former Hobbs Mayor Monty Newman and Gavin Clarkson, who served briefly in the Interior Department under President Donald Trump.

Democrats are choosing between Coast Guard veteran Madeline Hildebrandt and water attorney Xochitl Torres Small.

The race may attract national attention in the fall as part of Democrats efforts to win back a majority in the U.S. House.

Republicans, nonetheless, have held the seat for all but two years since 1981.

The open seats are part of a national trend, Sanchez said.

Whether due to polarization or the amount of fundraising pressure in a position thats on the ballot every two years, theres been a national wave of incumbents stepping down, Sanchez said.

In New Mexicos case, it will mean a loss of seniority in a state that depends heavily on the federal government.

Moving forward, Sanchez said, well have two rookies in Congress.

Break from ads

Tuesdays election will bring a respite from the incessant campaign ads. But it will be brief, as the candidates turn their eyes to the Nov. 6 general election.

We should have a recess  a break in the action  after the primary for a couple of months before things totally heat up, Sanderoff said. But as the years pass, the recess gets shorter and shorter. There have been examples where things pick up right after the primary.NEW YORK  A powerful public figure is accused of sexual assault in a Manhattan hotel room. Theres media frenzy. Enter go-to defense attorney Ben Brafman.

Brafman, 69, was on the winning end of that scenario in 2011 when he helped former International Monetary Fund director Dominique Strauss-Kahn beat an attempted rape charge.

Seven years later, Brafman has an even bigger challenge: defending Harvey Weinstein against sex crime charges.

Im trying my best to save him in somewhat of an impossible situation he finds himself in, Brafman told The Associated Press.

Saving unpopular clients in impossible situations is something of a specialty for Brafman, whose list of past clients includes professional athletes, celebrities and wealthy businessmen in trouble, some so vilified many lawyers would shy away from them.

He said in the past year hes gotten to know Weinstein as someone with a forceful personality who soaks up all the oxygen in the room, but steadfastly maintains his innocence.

In Brafman, Weinstein gets a tactical and pugnacious lawyer willing to fight for him inside court  and outside, too, in pressure-cooker conditions.

With Strauss-Kahn, Brafman had a case that came to center on the credibility of a hotel maid who had accused the influential French diplomat of sexual assault.

Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr.  the same prosecutor handling the Weinstein case  ultimately dropped the charges, saying there were inconsistencies in the accusers story.

Compared to Strauss-Kahn, Weinsteins case appears to be a much heavier lift: He faces more serious allegations of raping one woman in a hotel room, plus forcing another to perform oral sex in his office. On top of that, there are dozens of similar allegations against his client by actresses and other women and a climate of outrage fueled by the #MeToo movement.

After Weinstein turned himself in May 25, Brafman came out swinging, telling reporters: Mr. Weinstein did not invent the casting couch in Hollywood, and that bad behavior is not on trial in this case.

In the AP interview, the lawyer said he felt compelled to strike back against months of what he calls unfair press coverage fueled by leaks by authorities investigating the case. He also claims Vance is under intense political pressure to get a conviction, further stacking the odds against Weinstein.

I think part of my ethical responsibility to a client in a high-profile case is to try and prevent a conviction by whats happening outside of the courtroom, he said. And when there is a tsunami of bad press in a case like this, for example, I have to be able to try and level the playing field.

He added: Im not defending the crime of rape. To falsely accuse a person of rape, however, is equally offensive. And in this case, I believe that there are a number of very well-known personalities who have made accusations against Harvey Weinstein that are just patently false.

An Orthodox Jew who is the son of Holocaust victims, Brafman was raised in Brooklyn and Queens. He graduated from Ohio Northern University College of Law, and served as an assistant district attorney in Manhattan in the mid-1970s before building his defense practice.

In 2001, Brafman won an acquittal for hip-hop star Sean Combs after he was accused of toting an illegal handgun into a crowded Manhattan nightclub. Brafman says it taught him a lesson about managing hard-charging clients used to calling all the shots.

He had less success muzzling another big-name client, Martin Pharma Bro Skhreli, who was convicted at a high-profile trial last year of cheating hedge fund investors.

Even after he was found guilty, the former pharmaceutical CEO  notorious for inflating the price of a life-saving drug  kept taunting the likes of Hillary Clinton on social media, prompting a judge to revoke his bail. Skhreli ended up receiving a seven-year sentence.

Brafman also represented conservative author and filmmaker Dinesh DSouza, who pleaded guilty to making illegal campaign contributions and was sentenced to probation. DSouza was back in the news last week when President Donald Trump announced he was pardoning him.

Kenneth Montgomery, a lawyer who has represented an accuser in a rape investigation, said Brafmans willingness to engage the media is understandable in a legal system where the government has a lot of power, and in a day and age where the media affects peoples opinion.

Some defense attorneys stay pointedly mum outside court, but speaking to the media can make sense if you want to get in front of the public narrative of a case, Montgomery said.

Attorney Douglas Wigdor, who represented the maid who accused Strauss-Kahn, said Brafman advocated on behalf of his client and used all his connections and skills to his clients advantage, and I cant really begrudge him for doing that.

In any case Brafman takes, I think the client feels my passion for the work that Im doing, he said. Im not a robot. Im not just a hired gun. I get paid well, but I earn every single penny.

People ask me if its fun to be Ben Brafman at a time like this, he said. Its fun for about a minute. And then its just really hard work and an awesome responsibility.Customer Logins

Obtain the data you need to make the most informed decisions by accessing our extensive portfolio of information, analytics, and expertise. Sign in to the product or service center of your choice.US President Donald Trump is most probably the second-most popular political leader in Israel (after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu). His anti-Iran and anti-two-state solution positions, the relocation of the US Embassy to Jerusalem, his tacit greenlighting of settlement expansion and US backing of Israeli military actions in the Gaza Strip and Syria have turned him  in the eyes of many Israelis, especially the right  into the most pro-Israeli president in modern times. His speeches on Israeli issues could not have been better written, even by Netanyahu himself.

Yet many on the Israeli left have a different perception of the American president. More accurately, they believe that the Trump-Netanyahu axis threatens Israel both diplomatically and strategically.

Centrist leader Yair Lapid and center-left Labor leader Avi Gabbay both hailed the relocation of the US Embassy to Jerusalem. In view of Trumps popularity in Israel, they have been careful not to criticize him directly. Nevertheless, members of their respective camps point out that the alliance between Netanyahu and Trump, as expressed in four principle domains, could generate dangerous regional ramifications.

The first domain is that of the two-state solution. Referring to Trumps recognition of Jerusalem as Israels capital, Gabbay said on Dec. 6, 2017, I hope that along with the recognition, the American administration will take steps in the Middle East to restart the peace process. It can happen. We should see it as something that can inspire negotiations. And so, while the relocation of the US Embassy to Jerusalem was applauded by most of the political echelon, left-wing members argue that this isolated move, absent a realistic peace process, could actually damage Israeli interests.

A former top security official, active within the opposition, told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity that since Jerusalem is the most passion-loaded issue for Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims, the relocation has rekindled strong sentiments against the Trump-Netanyahu axis. He said that according to reliable US sources, an eventual US peace plan would be very one-sided (in favor of Israel) and that in such a case, the American plan would be categorically rejected by the Palestinians and most of the Arab world. He also stressed that the settlers movement and HaBayit HaYehudi leader Naftali Bennett are having a dream-come-true moment, and therefore they are applying pressure on Netanyahu to annex parts of West Bank Area C (under Israeli control).

The former official added with guarded anger, Trump and his right-wing administration do not comprehend that a two-state solution is an almost existential interest for Israel if it wants to remain a Jewish democracy, rather than deteriorating into a binational apartheid state.

The second domain threatening Israels interests is that of the United States Iran policy. Al-Monitor contributor Ben Caspit pointed out that not all the Israeli security establishment is onboard the Trump-Netanyahu all or nothing approach against Iran. The former official shares the view that having the nuclear deal is better than undermining it, as it distances Iran from developing nuclear weapons. He believes that the deal should be improved, especially in relation to Irans ballistic missiles. He does not believe the United States intends to use military force against Iran. In his opinion, Trumps withdrawal from the nuclear deal could in the long run isolate Israel in its confrontation with Iran.

The third dangerous facet of the Trump-Netanyahu axis is that of Israel-US Jewry ties. The former official criticized Netanyahu strongly for antagonizing the US Democratic Party and even many of its Jewish supporters (more American Jews voted for Clinton than for Trump). He noted that 2018 may see a new Senate composition, and in 2021, there may be a Democratic president in the White House. Therefore, Netanyahus policy is, he argued, myopic and dangerous.

Last but not least, while the Trump-Netanyahu axis offers strong relations with Israels greatest ally, it also threatens its relations with Europe. Israels positions on settlement expansion, for instance, tacitly approved by the United States, have brought Israels ties with the European Union, its main trade partner, to an all-time low. On May 28, France urged Israel to halt the demolition of the West Bank Bedouin village Khan al-Ahmar, stating that the village is located in an area of strategic importance to the two-state solution.

A senior Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs official with access to Netanyahu told Al-Monitor that in his view the Trump-Netanyahu alliance greatly irritates the Israeli left. Netanyahu is thrilled to have such strong and almost unconditional support from Israels most important ally. The prime minister sees this as a vindication for his long-held views and policies and as an American green light to pursue his anti-Iran policies, as well as opposing a two-state solution and continuing settlement expansion.GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  The Egyptian authorities decision to open the Rafah crossing throughout the holy month of Ramadan sparked fear and joy at the same time among Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

The opening of the crossing coincided with extensive internationally mediated indirect contact between Israel and Hamas on a deal whereby Israel would improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip in exchange for a long-term truce between the two sides.

On May 18, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi issued instructions to open the Rafah border crossing throughout the holy month of Ramadan, allowing the entry of individuals, trucks and humanitarian aid.

By the next day, Egyptian authorities had dispatched two convoys of medicine and medical supplies to the Gaza Strip. In turn, the Qatar National Committee for the Reconstruction of Gaza announced May 21 that it distributed 35,000 food packages, including basic foodstuffs, at a cost of about $1.5 million, in addition to the supply of medical equipment and shipments of medicines.

In light of this influx of aid, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) warned against "reducing the Palestinian cause to its humanitarian dimension, or compromising humanitarian rights for aid or facilities, or allowing politicians to forsake the Palestinian cause for their own gains.

In a May 22 statement, the PFLP said, The government and the authorities managing the Gaza Strip are responsible for ensuring the right of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip to solve their living and economic problems and to have a decent life. This would boost their steadfastness and resistance against the deal of the century or any other solution that undermines their constant [rights] of return, freedom and independence.

PFLP leader Zulfiqar Sawirjo said that turning the Palestinian cause into a mere humanitarian one implies a new series of concessions, which will eventually lead to dealing with the Gaza Strip as an independent entity plagued by humanitarian crises. This is not true, he told Al-Monitor.

He said the PFLP is not against any humanitarian aid aimed to ease the deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip as long as such aid is not linked to a political concession or regional deals prejudicing Palestinian rights.

Sawirjo added, We will not accept dealing with the Gaza Strip as an independent entity. It reverts to a national authority formed of all Palestinian factions to examine these proposed solutions. We must overcome the [Hamas-Fatah] division in order to achieve the national project of establishing a Palestinian state.

In an opinion article in Israeli newspaper Maariv on May 25, writer Alon Ben David said that after months of ignoring Hamas' calls for a truce, Israel is now seriously considering two truce proposals in the Gaza Strip. One of them is Egyptian and the other Qatari. The article said that Israel had waived its demands that have so far thwarted any potential truce proposal, which are the disarmament of the resistance and the return of the Palestinian Authority (PA) to Gaza.

Ben David said Israel is now demanding a complete cessation of rocket fire and tunnel digging by all Palestinian factions, banning access to areas directly to the west of the Gaza border fence (to stop the protests there) and a solution for Israeli missing or detained persons.

Ben David also said that under the proposed truce agreement, Israel would ease restrictions at the crossings to Gaza (entry of goods and services) on the condition that Hamas does not exploit this to further empower its armed wing. Egypt would also ease restrictions at its Rafah crossing with Gaza.

No further details were given about the Egyptian and Qatari proposals. Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem refused to comment about the nature of these proposals.

Hamas has shown its willingness to consider any proposal that would lift the siege on the besieged enclave, he said, referring to contacts made with Hamas by several parties, such as Egypt, Qatar, Russia, Switzerland and Norway.

The London-based Al-Hayat newspaper reported May 27 that the United States was involved directly in these contacts, citing Western diplomatic sources.

These parties have put forward visions and proposals to alleviate the crises of the Gaza Strip. The offered proposals are not yet finalized, and we cannot rely on them just yet, Qassem told Al-Monitor.

He downplayed the PFLP concerns over the flow of aid into the Gaza Strip, saying Hamas will not use the hardship in the Gaza Strip as a reason "for imposing a regional solution to the Palestinian cause or the deal of the century that the Palestinian people do not accept. He further said that any proposal will only be approved in consultation with all Palestinian factions.

On the truce proposals, Qassem said that all the talk about the truce is Israeli talk. "Hamas has yet to receive a serious integrated plan.

Meanwhile, Palestinian political analyst Talal Okal told Al-Monitor, Aid flowing to the Gaza Strip is not humanitarian aid at all, but has political implications.

He said the humanitarian crisis has been burned into the consciousness of the Gaza Strip residents in such a way that they would most likely welcome any breakthroughs or solutions to their crises.

By maintaining their internal division, Palestinians are facilitating the deal of the century; the proposed truce is one of the manifestations of this deal, Okal added.

Signaling Hamas willingness to negotiate with the United States and Israel in this regard, Okal said, Hamas is a key player in the Palestinian and regional arenas and is better suited than the PA to handle the negotiations.

For his part, Fahmi Shurrab, a professor of political science at Ummah University in Gaza, said Hamas is in an economic and political quagmire. A truce is not only sought by Israel but also by Hamas. The success of this truce, however, depends on the gains Hamas will reap from it, he told Al-Monitor.

He said the PA is not capable of imposing its own decisions on the Gaza Strip and cannot stop any project that Hamas decides to engage in. It should be noted that the parties participating in the contacts about the truce are international parties that the PA cannot defy.ALEPPO, Syria  Many of Afrins displaced families are returning to their homes. But it's said they must take rough roads to avoid attacks by members of the Kurdish Peoples Protection Units (YPG) that, according to the Free Syrian Army (FSA), are shooting at everyone they see trying to return.

The YPG, however, accuses the FSA and Turkey of trying to achieve demographic change in the northern Aleppo city by forcing out the Kurds and other original residents.

Afrin has always been a Kurdish-dominated area, as the YPG controlled it before the FSA and Turkey took over March 18  after which Arabs and Turkmens started pouring in, though they never outnumbered the Kurds there. However, it seems a demographic change indeed occurred when waves of displaced families from eastern Ghouta settled there.

Lt. Col. Zuhair Estanbouli is commander of the FSA-affiliated Mohammad al-Fateh Brigade, made up of Kurdish, Arab and Turkmen members. He told Al-Monitor, A large group of our members are handling the return of Afrins displaced families. Some members are deployed in the area located between us and the areas controlled by the YPG near the villages of Tunb and Kumar. There, we receive families that usually come on foot and we transport them in vehicles we have allocated to bring them back to their homes in Afrin.

The YPG also accuses the FSA of threatening to kill Afrin residents if they return to their homes, preventing them from entering their villages and demolishing and burning down their homes. According to YPG claims, the FSA and the Turkish army aim to naturalize Arab families, specifically those who came from eastern Ghouta near the capital Damascus with the recent waves of displacement. The alleged naturalization process included the city of Afrin and its affiliated areas throughout the region. In addition, the YPG argues that these families have opened shops and restaurants in Afrin and are benefitting from an area that isn't theirs.

The YPG said it already has begun to fight the process. A May 4 statement on the groups official website said it had assassinated Jamal al-Zaghloul, the former police chief in eastern Ghouta. When Zaghloul came to Afrin, the YPG said, he was put in charge of transitioning eastern Ghouta families into the city and of intimidating Afrin's remaining original residents to force them out. The statement said those handling the naturalization process in Afrin are the YPG's next targets.

Life in Afrin seems quite normal. The streets are full of passersby; some of them are Arab, and many veiled women can be seen on the streets. They are mostly families of FSA members stationed in Afrin, in addition to the displaced families from eastern Ghouta. Meanwhile, Kurdish families from Afrin can be identified by the modern clothes they wear, like jeans, and women are mostly unveiled. A good number of worshipers from eastern Ghouta can be spotted reading the Quran in Salah al-Din mosque, where original Kurdish residents can also be seen praying.

Ibrahim Abdel Jawad from the town of Saqba in eastern Ghouta told Al-Monitor that he and his family arrived in Idlib on April 6 with convoys of displaced persons from Ghouta. The camps in Idlib are overcrowded; we didn't have a place to live. My family and I decided to come to Afrin one week after our arrival in Idlib. We were told the area has good housing and rents are low compared to the rates in Idlib. My family and I live in a house we rented for 20,000 Syrian pounds [$39] a month in the city of Afrin. We have water, and the security situation is good. I am currently looking for work in the city to support my family, he said.

Afrins Kurdish residents aren't very fond of our presence among them," he added. "They see us as outsiders who come to share their property, but that's not true. We are displaced people. We'd be very happy to leave Afrin to its people if only we could return to our homes in eastern Ghouta. Theirs are unjustified concerns.

FSA spokesman Lt. Col. Mohammad Hammadin told Al-Monitor the YPGs claims are false and he denied FSA factions deployed in Afrin have any deliberate policy of naturalizing Arab families there. He said that what happened was normal: Families from various parts of the country came to Afrin and other areas of northern Syria under the control of the Syrian opposition.

Ever since  we took over Afrin, we have appealed to the displaced people to return to their homes. We promised to help them return to their normal lives. There are dozens of families returning every day to their homes. FSA factions are offering aid and a safe return right to their doorsteps, Hammadin said.

The local council in Afrin doesn't have specific data on the number of families that remain displaced. However, the council noted that about half of the residents of Afrin, nearly 100,000 people, are still far from returning to their homes and live in YPG-controlled areas in northern Aleppo. Afrin is now a city for Syrians from all different sects  Arabs, Turkmens and Kurds  from various Syrian regions such as eastern Ghouta, Deir ez-Zor, rural Homs and other areas.Russian President Vladimir Putin is banking that he can persuade his US counterpart Donald Trump that Russia offers the best chance to allow US troops to leave Syria very soon, as Trump has indicated he would like to do.

Preparations are underway for a US-Russia presidential summit, where Syria will be at the top of the agenda. Putins leverage in Syria is unmatched, as he has managed complicated relations with all of the key parties  the Syrian government, Iran, Turkey and Israel  while keeping up regular contacts with Arab Gulf leaders. On June 1, Putin welcomed Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi and deputy supreme commander of the United Arab Emirates' armed forces, to Moscow.

As we wrote here nearly a year ago, in July 2017, Putin welcomes and needs US partnership in stabilizing Syria, but whose [Putin's] leverage with Damascus, Tehran and Ankara could be weakened, rather than strengthened, by closer ties with the United States. This may still be the case, but the Russian diplomatic stock has surged since then. In addition to Putins relentless personal engagement, backed by military muscle in Syria, the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) has been a windfall for the Russian president, increasing the value of his good offices for Tehran.

Putin has also begun to deftly capitalize on the friction between the United States and Europe over tariffs and the JCPOA, as we reported here last week in the context of French President Emmanuel Macron's call for European financial sovereignty at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. Igor Delanoe writes that by attempting to cautiously build bridges with Russia regarding Syria, Paris wants to show it's not aligned with the United States on all Middle Eastern issues. In that sense, Trumps decision to walk out on the Iran deal gives France more room when it comes to Syria. Distancing itself from Washingtons regional policy is part of Frances independent stance.

No doubt Putin has the outlines of a plan. Few outlets besides Al-Monitor picked up on both his call for the withdrawal of foreign armed forces from Syria and his tireless mediation and back-channel diplomacy with Jerusalem and Tehran.

A pressing test of Russian diplomacy is defusing Israeli concerns about a potential Syrian operation against armed groups in Daraa because of the presence of Iranian and Iranian-backed militias, including Hezbollah. Maxim Suchkov reports, Moscow is working to resolve the issue, first by trying to convince the Israelis of Assads need for that offensive (similar talks with the Americans are expected soon) and, second, by negotiating terms of the potential departure of the pro-Iranian forces. Both themes are closely linked: Israel discourages the Daraa operation, given the leverage Israel has in the area over Syrian security, and given its fear of losing that leverage should pro-Iranian militias and Hezbollah win the territory from the opposition. If, however, there are guarantees that Iran wont have a military presence in southern Syria or participate in any military operation by the Syrian army there, Israel might not impede the offensive.  The bottom line here is Russia cant force Iran out of southern Syria  that can only be done through talks with Tehran and Tehrans voluntary participation, with clear incentives from Russia and, indirectly, Israel.

Putin may seek to persuade Trump that the Syrian military would take the charge in forthcoming operations, and that Iran and Hezbollah would stay behind. Osama Al Sharif adds, With Russias assurances that only the Syrian army will be allowed to deploy in southern Syria and reports that Iranian militias have pulled back, it is difficult to see how the US position can be justified. A peaceful deployment should spare Daraa carnage and destruction, which in the long run is in the interest of Jordan, according to [retired Jordanian Brig. Gen. Fayez al-] Duwairi.

Suchkov concludes, Despite all the complexities, the situation in southern Syria doesnt look hopeless at this point. A far bigger challenge in this conundrum is Irans long-term presence in the rest of Syria. Theres an understanding in Moscow that Hezbollah may always find a reason to stay in Syria as long as its leadership feels it needs to ensure Lebanons security. Theres no way for Russia or any other external power to guarantee an Iran-free Syria, as there are no means of verifying Irans presence or its influence.

Perhaps the most daunting challenge for Putin will be to keep Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on board with the Astana process. Turkish actions in Idlib appear aimed at solidifying a new Turkish sphere of interest to oppose the Syrian government, rather than being part of a coordinated effort to de-escalate the conflict in advance of military operations to re-establish Syrian sovereignty.

Fehim Tastekin writes, Turkey recently completed its 12th and last military observation post in Idlib  the northwestern Syrian province that has become a jihadi reserve. With that done, and with regime pressure mounting on Idlib, Turkish troops and their rebel allies on May 27 ventured into the adjacent Jabal al-Akrad region in the province of Latakia.  Syrian government forces shelled the mountaintop where the Turkish troops were positioned, and fired an antitank missile at a rebel-operated vehicle, killing five fighters.

Under growing pressure from the Syrian army, the region has become a theater of ferocious conflicts between rival armed groups, including assassinations, Tastekin reports. Idlib remains a turbulent place, plagued by Syrian army operations, clashes between rival groups and assassinations blamed on the Islamic State. More than 180,000 people, including nearly 29,000 fighters, have been evacuated from eastern Ghouta, eastern Qalamoun and most recently Yarmouk, to Turkish-controlled areas, increasing the fragility of those regions, especially Idlib.

Turkeys action plan rests on keeping the regime away from the region, Tastekin continues. In Ankaras eyes, protecting Idlib might be a trump card in its Syria policy.  Russia and Iran, on the other hand, want to push the groups dominating Idlib to lay down their arms or give up fighting the regime to join the political process.

The current masters of Idlib have been careful to remain 'friendly' with Turkey because of the direct and indirect assistance they get, Tastekin writes. This includes Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which lives entirely on the Turkish border. Yet the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham agenda leaves no room for compromise. Yousef al-Hajar, a senior Hayat Tahrir al-Sham member, confirmed the group cooperates with Turkey, while vowing to fight on until the regime falls. In an apparent bid to minimize the risk of blowback and to make Idlib useful, Turkey seems to be making some sly interventions. For quite some time, Ankara has sought to merge groups that are close to it into a united army, help them get the upper hand in Idlib and recast them as the opposition element in the political settlement process.

Tastekin concludes that much like the situation it faced in Afrin, Turkey owes its current positions in Idlib to coordination with Russia. Any falling out with Russia and Iran could greatly complicate things for Turkey.

Syrian Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign and Expatriates Minister Walid Moallem said June 2 that his government considers Turkey to be an enemy and an invader. Neither Turkey nor the United States have the right to negotiate regarding the Syrian cities; we will liberate every inch of our land.

Turkeys coordination with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham should be cause for alarm and a worrying reminder of Ankaras pattern of coordination with jihadi forces in Syria, especially if the United States is considering buying into any Turkish notion of opposition enclaves in northern Syria. On May 31, the US State Department added Hayat Tahrir al-Sham as a terrorist entity linked to Jabhat al-Nusra, the al-Qaeda affiliate in Syria.

Amberin Zaman reports that a Turkish plan for Manbij and surrounding areas, which has some support within the Trump administration, envisages building anti-regime enclaves across Syria managed by Turkey and the United States, in which the YPG [Peoples Protection Units] would be sidelined and Damascus denied access to vital energy, water and agricultural resources. It would also roll back Russian and Iranian influence.

Putins diplomacy to date has been instrumental in preventing an escalation in Syria, but he can only keep it up for so long without an assist from the United States. But the question is whether Trump will buy into Putins plan, and at what price. As we wrote in July 2017, Putins endgame is relief from US-led sanctions. If no sanctions relief is forthcoming, Putin will have little interest in carrying Trumps water at the expense of his regional ties.How much time it takes for law enforcement to reach some of Alabama's schools was a key factor in Gov. Kay Ivey creating a program allowing administrators to be armed and use lethal force if an armed intruder threatens students or others on a school campus.

"If you don't have someone there to respond to an active shooter," Ivey's Education Policy Advisor Nick Moore said, "you're a sitting duck."

Reaction to Ivey's creation of the Alabama Sentry Program was all over the map as expected, and people still have a lot of questions.

The program will serve as a bridge until a school resource officer can be placed in each of Alabama's more than 1,300 schools, Ivey said during a press conference about the program.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey's Education Policy Advisor Nick Moore speaks to superintendents about the SAFE Council at an April 18, 2018, meeting in Montgomery, Ala.

Much is still unknown about the program, and school superintendents are expecting more information on the program later this week from Alabama Superintendent Eric Mackey.

To gain a better understanding of just what is already known, Moore and Ivey Press Secretary Daniel Sparkman answered questions about the program in an interview with AL.com.

We present that interview in a question-and-answer format below. Some answers are taken directly from the memo authorizing the program and previous reporting.

Where did the Alabama Sentry Program idea come from?

Moore said the Sentry program came out of the work being done since March 6, when Ivey announced her Smart on Safety initiative and the Securing Alabama's Facilities of Education, or SAFE Council was created. The SAFE Council was charged with making recommendations by April 30 to improve safety in Alabama's schools. Five state agency chiefs were named members of the Council.

But the idea of arming school officials was not addressed in the SAFE Council's ten recommendations, released on May 7.

That didn't mean it wasn't on Ivey's mind, though. Since March 6, Moore said, research conducted by the Governor's office revealed that law enforcement response time to schools was a serious concern.

"When the Governor saw the response time issue, that was a compelling factor," Moore said, in the creation of the program.

"Even if the police are two miles down the road," he said, "they're probably not going to get there in enough time to prevent the loss of life."

The rural nature and geography surrounding many of Alabama's schools also fed into the thinking, he said. Nearly 600 of Alabama's 1,300-plus schools are classified as rural by federal standards.

Moore said this was not a quick or easy decision and it wasn't made for political gain.

"This is a solemn, tough thing to do," Moore said. "It's not something we're excited about."

Why create the program now? What's the hurry?

"[Ivey] knew that we had to do this because it was in the best interest of the kids," Moore said. "It probably was not in the best interest of the [June 5 primary] election, but putting that aside, it was still the right thing to do."

Moore said there wouldn't be enough time to get any additional school safety measures in place before the start of the next school year if Ivey didn't use executive power to create the Program. There were no guarantees that lawmakers would act on any measures, Moore said, even if a special session was called.

Ivey acknowledged time was of the essence in remarks during a May 30 press conference. "Now is the time to act and that is exactly what I am doing today," Ivey said at the Capitol with Mackey and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor.

Though multiple bills were filed during the legislative session that ended March 25, the only action lawmakers took on school safety was to allow money earmarked for technology to be spent on school security.

How many Alabama schools are eligible to have a Sentry?

Only schools without school resource officers are eligible and right now, nobody knows what that number is. Moore said they are finalizing the count now but will not release those numbers to the public.

According to federal civil rights data from 2014, the most recent year data are available, 33 school systems in Alabama had no sworn law enforcement officers in any of their schools. That same data, now four years old, showed 730 of Alabama's 1,300-plus schools had no law enforcement officers on campus.

That number is likely off the mark, though, as many communities have added SROs since the tragic shooting deaths of 17 students and faculty at Florida's Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Valentine's Day.

Who is eligible to become a Sentry?

In schools without an SRO, only school administrators with a valid school administrator certificate can be considered, according to the memo. In addition, the administrator must have a valid concealed-carry permit, and pass a drug screening, a mental-health assessment, and a stress test. Ultimately, the Sentry will become a reserve deputy sheriff without the power to arrest anyone.

How does an administrator become a Sentry?

The details are still being worked out between ALEA and the state department of education, Moore said.

Moore said the voluntary process begins with a principal asking for approval from the local superintendent. The superintendent and board of education will have to approve the principal's request to move forward with the process.

Simultaneously, the county's sheriff will begin the vetting process to ensure the principal can be sworn in as a reserve deputy sheriff.

Sentries must undergo annual training and recertification requirements.

How will communities know if their school's administrator has become a Sentry?

They won't, Moore said. There are "compelling safety reasons" to keep this information from the public, he said. "If you do let [the community] know, then you automatically make [the Sentry] a target," he said. In addition, if some school administrators within a school district become Sentries but not others, Moore said, it could put pressure on others to participate who may not be comfortable with becoming a Sentry.

Communities exercise their voice through their elected officials, he said, which in all cases include the sheriff, and in some cases include the superintendent and the board of education. Those officials are empowered to make public safety decisions, he said, and will be trusted with the final decision.

Who will pay for training, guns and other requirements of the program?

Agencies that are members of the SAFE Council will pay for the trainings, he said. Members of the Council include ALEA and the ALSDE, along with the Departments of Mental Health, Information Technology, and the Community College System.

The memo specifies "local boards of education shall be responsible for acquiring and maintaining a weapons-storage system, an approved weapon, ammunition, accessories, and the ALEA-designed bullet-proof vest." Specifications pertaining to each of those items have not yet been worked out but will be developed by regional School Safety Training and Compliance Teams. The vest will be designed by ALEA.

Moore said ALEA and the ALSDE are still working to determine which sources of a school's revenue stream and income can be used to purchase firearms, adding, "We'll find ways to make sure Sentries are prepared to exercise their duties."

Will a Sentry be allowed to carry the gun on the school campus?

Only in the event of an active shooter situation. Otherwise, the gun must be locked up.

Ivey's memo specifies sentries "will train to maintain an authorized weapon in a biometrically-secured safe fastened to the school's physical plant."

With respect to the safe, Moore said they have not talked with any vendor about purchasing biometric safes. Using a biometric safe was based on the idea that you need to have a secure way to open the safe, he said.

"It could be a fingerprint or a retina or iris scan," he said. "That is something that will be determined by ALEA and the state department and is probably something that will never be known publicly."

When can a Sentry open the safe and use the gun?

"Their actions as a law enforcement officer are only triggered when there is an active shooter," Moore said, adding that administrators are the ones to declare a code red emergency in response to an armed intruder or active shooter situation.

How will law enforcement who respond to the active shooter know the Sentry isn't the bad guy?

Ivey's memo specifies that a specially-designed bullet-proof vest must be worn by the Sentry and the regional School Safety Training and Compliance Team is responsible for making sure law enforcement know what the vest looks like.

Can a Sentry be sued?

Moore said sentries have "double sovereign immunity." Sentries will have immunity both as reserve deputy sheriffs and as school administrators. That doesn't prevent a lawsuit being filed, of course, but the Sentry would have to be proven, in simple terms, to be negligent and well outside of their scope of authority to face liability for whatever actions they took as a Sentry.

Do other states allow school officials to be armed or have access to guns on school campuses?

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 18 states have a state-level law allowing anyone with permission from the school authority to carry a gun on a school campus: Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Utah and Vermont.

An additional seven states specifically allow school employees to have a gun on K-12 school grounds: Florida, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, Tennessee and Wyoming.

Four of those 25 states (Missouri, Tennessee, Texas and South Dakota) require school employees to complete training programs.

It is unclear how many schools and districts actually have armed school officials or others on campus, though.

Franklin County in northwest Alabama has had a program authorizing trained and vetted school employees and community volunteers to carry a gun on campus since 2013.

Moore was clear that Alabama's program was not designed to model any other state's law or program.

"This program is designed specifically for Alabama," Moore said, "using data from Alabama, and looking at the needs of Alabamians."

Moore said Alabama's program is the most conservative of the ones he's aware of. "If you look and compare our program to others," he said, "we have the most measured, thoughtful program out there because it is limited to administrators," and collaborations between law enforcement and school officials are required.

Texas has had one voluntary program in place for nearly a decade, and added a second program with training requirements, in 2013. Though Santa Fe High School, where the May 18 shooting occurred, and 10 students and teachers were killed, had opted in to the state's Marshal program, no one had been trained to serve as a Marshal. Two armed SROs were on campus, though, and were key in ending the shooter's rampage.

A school board in northern Georgia just last week approved a program allowing teachers to carry holstered weapons.

What reaction has Ivey received in response to announcing the program?

Moore said the reactions have been largely predictable and reflect biases the person had prior to the announcement of the program. In other words, if a person though guns in schools was a bad idea prior to Wednesday's announcement, the person's reaction reflected that line of thinking.

It comes down to this, Moore said: will a school have someone there to respond or not? Less harm is likely is there is someone there to respond, he said.

Moore said he knows that arming administrators isn't the preferred way to keep students safe.

"Optimally, would we rather [the armed person on a campus] be an SRO? Sure." Moore said.

"When you're having to make a utilitarian decision for the greatest good for the greatest number," he said, political arguments against having an armed, trained and properly-vetted administrator "don't hold much water."

What's next in the Council's efforts to improve school safety?

Moore said they will know more about estimated costs of implementing some of the SAFE Council's recommendations by June 15. Those recommendations include placing a dedicated and trained SRO on every school campus, enhancing school building security, installing and linking school surveillance equipment to local law enforcement, and expanding school-based mental health services.

Ivey also gave the Council a June 15 deadline to give her a timeline for implementing the other six recommendations. Those recommendations include creating threat assessment teams at the school and district level, creating an app to report threats anonymously to school officials, tracking school-based incidents in real time, enforcing current law requiring Code Red drills, and creating 11 regional school safety training compliance teams that will provide training to K-12 schools.

Ivey set all of that in motion on May 16 when she asked for more information from the SAFE Council.A teenager's run-in with Birmingham police started well before he stole a city bus and rammed two patrol cars on Sunday, according to information released by police.

The 15-year-old's escape from authorities lasted about half the day: Shortly after 2 p.m. police reported that he was back in custody. It wasn't immediately clear what charges he would face, though police said that his actions "took a minor situation to a level that put many lives in danger," including his own.

According to information released by the Birmingham Police Department, officers from the South Precinct responded at about 3:30 a.m. Sunday to a call of two individuals with guns. They found the two in possession of a BB gun and a paintball gun.

One of the two was a 15-year-old whose mother refused to come and take custody of him. The other person was not charged. The 15-year-old was taken to the Juvenile Detention Facility on 2nd Court North to be placed in protective custody. However, he escaped at about 6:30 a.m.

According to a statement from police, "the escape took place outside of the facility and was not an escape from the Juvenile Detention Facility." A police spokesman clarified that the juvenile had been brought to the detention center for paperwork to be signed so that he could be turned over to DHR, but he escaped from the parking lot before being taken inside.

After finding his way to a Birmingham MAX bus depot on 31st Street North, he stole a small MAX bus. Officers spotted the vehicle and attempted to stop it; during the pursuit the driver struck two patrol cars. A portion of the pursuit was captured in a video posted to Facebook by a bystander.

The driver abandoned the bus at 9th Avenue North and 44th Place North and fled on foot in the area of the Tom Brown housing development. As officers continued to search for him, a police statement credited the officers involved with "great restraint" for ensuring that no one was injured in the chase, including the juvenile suspect.

According to police, his return to custody was "accomplished with the cooperation of his mother." He was turned over to authorities in the Tom Brown housing community.

Note: This story was updated at 1:25 p.m. with additional information from police.It was updated at 2:20 p.m. with information that the suspect was once again in police custody.(left to right) Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Birmingham evangelist Scott Dawson and Alabama State Senator Bill Hightower of Mobile. All three candidates are hoping to make a July 17, 2018, runoff election in the GOP contest for governor. (file photo)

Liz Davis may typify the average Alabama voter ahead of Tuesday's election: She's aware of the primary, isn't sure who all is running and is "too busy" to keep up with the blitz of campaign advertisements promoting statewide and local races.

But she has heard the name "Kay Ivey," and she thinks the current governor is doing a good enough job.

"I like what that lady has been doing," said Davis, 57, of Mobile, during a recent lunch at Hickory Pit Too in Semmes. "She had to jump in there and take over."

Davis' sentiments are shared among almost all Alabama political observers contacted by AL.com in recent days. To the expert, anything less than an outright Ivey win during Tuesday's Republican primary would be a shocker.

Ivey is opposed by three candidates: Birmingham evangelist Scott Dawson, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and Alabama State Senator Bill Hightower of Mobile. A runoff, if needed, is July 17.

"I don't think any of Governor Ivey's opponents have done anything to sufficiently differentiate themselves from her or one another, for that matter," said Richard Fording, a political science professor at the University of Alabama. "They will likely split the opposition vote and Governor Ivey should cruise to victory."

Said Waymon Burke, a political science professor at Calhoun Community College: "I would say on the Republican side that it's a question on whether it's a runoff or not. It doesn't appear it will be."

'Quasi-incumbent'

Ivey enters Tuesday's contest as the "quasi-incumbent," who hasn't been elected as governor before but who took over from former Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley in April 2017, after he resigned following a personal scandal involving a former campaign aide.

Ivey is a longtime fixture in Montgomery, having served previous terms as lieutenant governor and state treasurer. She entered the governor's office on a low-key pledge of "steadying the ship" following Bentley's ouster.

Ivey continued with similar controlled messaging in the campaign. She avoided debates with her GOP opponents, while making coordinated public appearances to tout the economy.

Ivey has raised, by far, the most money in the campaign at $4.3 million. She has gathered up key endorsements from groups like the National Rifle Association, and has the backing of a majority of the GOP in the Alabama Legislature. According to Morning Consult, her approval rating is at 67 percent.

But it's not all roses for the governor. Her personal life became political fodder last month after Rep. Patricia Todd, D-Birmingham, suggested in a social media post that Ivey was gay. Dawson, one of her opponents, also questioned Ivey's role in funneling more than $800,000 in grants to what he called a "fringe" LGBTQ organization, Free2Be.

Ivey was polling around 47 percent in the only public poll released in the race taken in late April. At that level, she would be forced into a July 17 runoff.

No show

Some voters believe Ivey should have showed up to debate her Republican foes. She was a no-show during the April 18 Reckon by AL.com and ABC 33/40 debate in Birmingham.

Ivey, unlike her fellow candidates, also avoided a video interview with John Archibald of AL.com and, against unlike her opponents, declined to speak to another reporter writing a profile.

"I really don't have anything bad to say about the governor, but I think she should've shown up to the debates," said Emily McGough, 65, of Mobile, as she dined with her husband Thursday at Hickory Pit Too.

Said Dwight McGough, 66: "I guess that's what her campaign aides told her to do. But she should show up because you can't really say what she stands for."

Voter fatigue?

Few political observers believe much of the criticism has stuck, though the potential exists for one of her opponents to squeak into a runoff.

Jess Brown, a retired political science professor at Athens State University, said that is the goal for Ivey's three opponents.

"If turnout in the Republican primary is low, that may force her into a runoff," said Brown. "But if you get turnout up into the average levels, then the chances are that Ivey will win."

Turnout is expected to range between 25-30 percent on Tuesday, according to an estimate provided by the Alabama Secretary of State's Office. The estimate is not broken into political parties.

Four years ago, in the 2014 governor's primary contests, only 21 percent of registered voters showed up to cast ballots in both the Republican and Democratic contests. Historical turnout during governor primaries, aside from the paltry turnout in 2014, is around 32 percent.

Voter fatigue, following the special Senate election in December, could be a factor in how many voters show up Tuesday, said Sam Fisher, a political science professor at the University of South Alabama.

"I think that is a big issue," he said. "There was a lot of energy and publicity that went into that special election. To follow up on that so soon after, there will be voter fatigue. That will be a problem for this coming election. People will not show up because they made their efforts last fall."

'Choir boys'

But even then, the potential of toppling Ivey may prove too difficult, according to the experts. They believe that none of Ivey's GOP challengers have conveyed a message to voters that is convincing enough to topple the governor.

"Battle, Dawson, Hightower - they have been like choir boys in a Sunday school class," said Steve Flowers, a political columnists and former Republican member of the Alabama House.

Said Brown: "None of them have delivered a message effective enough to shave many points off Governor Ivey, who is sort of the quasi-incumbent. She's run a low-risk campaign, and has had the luxury to do so because she has more money than any of the others, and the major interest groups in Montgomery have lined up behind her."

He added, "It's money, messaging and manpower. And these have been timid campaigns on a tactical sense and she doesn't have to take a risk with messaging."

Battle, mayor of Huntsville since 2008, has been viewed as the most likely to survive into a runoff. He has raised over $2.4 million, but his paid advertisement has been "mostly ineffective," said Brown.

"It's just not visceral enough," said Brown. He said the most recent Battle campaign spot, with the Huntsville mayor leaning against a red pickup truck, "does not distinguish" him from the rest of the field.

Said Brown: "It's well-done in terms of the technical aspects. But at this point in the campaign, if the objective is to shave points off Kay Ivey, that commercial is a waste of money."

The Democrats

Former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Sue Bell Cobb and Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox are the top two candidates running for the Democratic nomination for governor during the June 5, 2018, primary. (file photo)

If Ivey wins without a runoff, she'll turn her attention toward the Democratic nominee. To that end, most observers believe that Tuesday boils down to a contest between Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and former Alabama State Supreme Court Chief Justice Sue Bell Cobb.

Maddox and Cobb have run neck-and-neck in fundraising throughout the campaign, while trading sharp barbs at one another during debates.

But in recent weeks, Maddox has secured two major endorsements that are often viewed as tantamount to winning a statewide contest: The Alabama Democratic Conference and the New South Coalition.

Zac McCrary, a Democratic pollster based in Montgomery, said the primary began with both Maddox and Cobb as "evenly matched."

However, Maddox, with the key endorsements and "more grassroots energy," is viewed as the favorite next week, McCrary said.

"But I would be reluctant, if I were Maddox, to take my foot off the gas now," said McCrary. "In the Democratic primaries we've seen around the country is that voters are in the mood for good women candidates. Cobb is certainly a quality candidate who could marshal in some of that support. I would be hesitant to view the race as already locked up for Maddox in that type of climate."

Fording, at the University of Alabama, believes that Maddox and Cobb could be headed to a runoff showdown, since Cobb has the most name recognition statewide.

Fisher, at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, agrees.

"Sue Bell Cobb is a lot more recognizable in this part of the state and she might have an advantage here," he said. "Maddox is from Tuscaloosa and the Birmingham area has familiarity with his name and what he's done. But there are a lot more voters up there than down here. That would give him the advantage."

Looking toward November

Brown said that Maddox has run an effective statewide campaign, something he wasn't sure would happen when the race began earlier this year.

"The campaign has clearly shifted that race in my view," he said.

But the challenge for the Maddox-Cobb winner will be fundraising moving forward, said Flowers. Maddox has raised around $898,000, which is more than Cobb's $720,000, but badly trails Ivey's war chest.

"I don't know if there is a perception that a Democrat can win in the governor's election," said Flowers. "They haven't been on TV. They haven't had the resources."

Alabama hasn't elected a Democrat to the governor's office since Don Siegelman in 1998. In 2014, Bentley smashed Democrat Parker Griffith by a 64-36 percent margin.

Of the 26 Republican governors defending their seats this year, seven are considered solid Republican bets, according to analysis from Sabato's Crystal Ball, which is produced at the University of Virginia Center for Politics.

Alabama is one of those likely Republican wins.

"Governor Kay Ivey appears likely to win her party's nomination, and assuming she does, she'll be a solid frontrunner moving toward November," said Geoffrey Skelley, an associate editor with the Crystal Ball.WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump's lawyers composed a secret 20-page letter to special counsel Robert Mueller to assert that he cannot be forced to testify while arguing that he could not have committed obstruction because he has absolute authority over all federal investigations.

The existence of the letter, which was first reported and posted by The New York Times on Saturday, was a bold assertion of presidential power and another front on which Trump's lawyers have argued that the president can't be subpoenaed in the special counsel's ongoing investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

The letter is dated January 29 and addressed to Mueller from John Dowd, one of Trump's lawyers at the time who has since resigned from the legal team. In the letter, the Trump's lawyers argue that a charge of illegal obstruction is moot because the Constitution empowers the president to, "if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon."

Trump weighed in on Saturday on Twitter, asking "Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media?" He added: "When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country."

Mueller has requested an interview with the president to determine whether he had criminal intent to obstruct the investigation into his associates' possible links to Russia's election interference. Trump had previously signaled that he would be willing to sit for an interview, but his legal team, including head lawyer Rudy Giuliani, have privately and publicly expressed concern that the president could risk charges of perjury.

If Trump does not consent to an interview, Mueller will have to decide whether to forge forward with a historic grand jury subpoena. His team raised the possibility in March of subpoenaing the president but it is not clear if it is still under active consideration. Giuliani has told The Associated Press that the president's legal team believes the special counsel does not have the authority to do so.

A court battle is likely if Trump's team argues that the president can't be forced to answer questions or be charged with obstruction of justice. President Bill Clinton was charged with obstruction in 1998 by the House of Representatives as part of his impeachment trial. And one of the articles of impeachment prepared against Richard Nixon in 1974 was for obstruction.

Topics of Mueller's obstruction investigation include the firings of both Comey and former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, as well Trump's reaction to Attorney General Jeff Sessions' recusal from the Russia investigation.

In addition to the legal battles, Trump's team and allies have waged a public relations campaign against Mueller to discredit the investigation and soften the impact of the special counsel's potential findings. Giuliani said last week that the special counsel probe may be an "entirely illegitimate investigation" and need to be curtailed because, in his estimation, it was based on inappropriately obtained information from an informant and former FBI director James Comey's memos.

In reality, the FBI began a counterintelligence investigation in July 2016 to determine if Trump campaign associates were coordinating with Russia to tip the election. The investigation was opened after the hacking of Democratic emails that intelligence officials later formally attributed to Russia.

Giuliani has said a decision will not be made about a possible presidential interview with the special counsel until after Trump's summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore.

By Jonathan Lemire, Associated Press. Associated Press writers Chad Day and Eric Tucker contributed reporting.With President Donald Trump about to visit Canada for a G7 meeting, and a conference on U.S.-Canadian trade about to open in Mobile, international unease about trade relations continued to bloom over the weekend.

On Thursday, the Trump administration imposed steel and aluminum tariffs on Mexico, Canada and the European Union. All three said they'd consider retaliatory tariffs or legal action; Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sharply criticized Trump's stance and his administration quickly issued a list of tariffs on American goods to take effect July 1. Trump in turn blasted Canada on Twitter, alleging it has imposed unfair trade barriers.

Canadian officials have said that their proposed tariffs are intended to affect about $12.8 billion in goods coming from the U.S., roughly equal to the amount of Canadian goods hit by the Trump tariffs. But a Business Insider analysis found that the Canadian tariffs could apply to $15 billion or more in U.S. goods.

Trump and other G7 leaders meet next weekend in Quebec. This weekend, G7 finance ministers and bankers held a preliminary meeting in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. Reports coming out of that meeting were not upbeat.

The Financial Post led with the fact that the other six members -- Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom -- had issued a statement critical of recent U.S. actions. The Financial Post called it a "highly unusual public rebuke of one of its own members."

"The international community is faced with significant economic and security issues, which are best addressed through a united front from G7 countries," said that statement. "Members continue to make progress on behalf of our citizens, but recognize that this collaboration and co-operation has been put at risk by trade actions against other members."

French finance and economy minister Bruno Le Maire said sessions had been "tense and tough" and that "I would say it's been far more a G6 plus one than a G7."

According to the Financial Post, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who represented the U.S., downplayed the dissent, and Le Maire's comment in particular, saying there were many areas of unity. "We believe in the G7, it's an important group," he said.

According to a Reuters report, Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso called the U.S. tariff actions "deeply deplorable." "This doesn't happen that often at G7 meetings, but it was U.S. against everyone else," Aso said.

On Saturday and Sunday, Trump continued to sound off on the issue via Twitter.

The United States must, at long last, be treated fairly on Trade. If we charge a country ZERO to sell their goods, and they charge us 25, 50 or even 100 percent to sell ours, it is UNFAIR and can no longer be tolerated. That is not Free or Fair Trade, it is Stupid Trade!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2018

When youre almost 800 Billion Dollars a year down on Trade, you cant lose a Trade War! The U.S. has been ripped off by other countries for years on Trade, time to get smart!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2018

On Monday, the 11th annual Southeastern U.S.-Canadian Provinces conference opens in Mobile. It highlights trade relationships between Canada and six states of the southern United States. According to the Alabama Department of Commerce, Canadian companies have invested more than $2.5 billion in Alabama since 1999, creating an estimated 5,700 jobs.

At least one major investment is currently under consideration: Canadian company Bombardier has being working with Airbus on a joint venture that could lead to the construction of a new aircraft assembly line in Mobile.

Participants in the SEUC-CP conference include Nadia Theodore, the consul general of Canada in Atlanta.(This story was written for the AL.com/The Press-Register by Jeb Schrenk, a former Press-Register reporter and editor.)

Gary McElroy, who parachuted from the skies, labored odd jobs and introduced a Colorado mountain town to an offbeat brand of journalism before spending a decade chronicling the goings-on of the Mobile County courthouse for the Press-Register, died earlier this year. He was 69.

Friends and family will share their stories of McElroy's life at a celebration scheduled Saturday, June 9, at 1 p.m. at the Mobile Carnival Museum, 355 Government St.

McElroy arrived at the Press-Register in 1998, and in his socks, sandals and plaid shirts, he was a fixture in Mobile's district and circuit courts. He flowed just as freely among judges and lawyers as he did talking with lunch servers and after-hours bartenders. His passion was telling stories.

McElroy was hired after sending then-Editor Stan Tiner, with whom he had crossed paths in Louisiana, an eight-page, single-spaced letter looking for a writing job.

"I can already tell that this letter will likely break your career record in length of any letter of application you will ever receive. And I guarantee you that it will break mine in sending one," wrote McElroy, 390 words into an explanatory tale of his life's journey.

If McElroy's application letter was long, his reporter's copy was concise and quickly filed. He worked at the Press-Register for a dozen years, almost entirely on the court beat. The subjects of his stories were murderers, robbers, the innocent and winners of lucrative jury awards.

One of his stories was referenced by Pulitzer-Prize-winning writer Paul Greenberg, who described McElroy's article about a fight at a funeral as a "classic Southern news story" that "went down straight. Neat. Like a shot of Early Times."

Gary Lamar McElroy was born Oct. 27, 1948 and raised in Bossier City, Louisiana, the son of a daycare operator and an auto mechanic. He was an Eagle Scout, his high school senior class president and was voted most likely to succeed. He entered Louisiana Tech University and was elected as freshman class president, but he never finished college.

In his early 20s, McElroy traveled and picked up work where he could - gas station attendant, ranch hand, dishwasher, carny ride jockey and hotel clerk, among other jobs. He jumped out of airplanes and hitched rides across the United States. Eventually he landed in journalism and in Jackson, Mississippi, at the afternoon Jackson Daily News.

"He had this range of life experience that a lot of us didn't quite bring to the plate. His experiences informed his work," said Joe Rogers, a younger Mississippi reporter who would later work at The New York Times.

McElroy's time in Jackson was short-lived. In a series about Jackson's far-right underground, McElroy and management disagreed about how to handle a source's confidentiality. McElroy quit.

In all his years in journalism, Rogers said, McElroy's departure stands out. "Gary felt honor-bound," Rogers said. "So he resigned."

McElroy quickly was picked up by Florida's St. Petersburg Times, well on its way to rivaling the Atlanta Constitution as the South's preeminent paper. But by then, McElroy had a son and a marriage nearing its end. The son, Michael, took precedence over work. "Journalism, as you well know, is a hundred percent commitment, one hundred percent of the time," McElroy wrote Tiner.

He plotted a move west to Aspen, Colorado, where he had spent time after college. There, The Aspen Reader was born. McElroy was its creator, publisher, editor, ad salesman and delivery man; three times a week for two years. The Reader included news stories, fiction and whatever McElroy fancied or wanted to poke at. Fifty editions after its inception, McElroy attempted to clarify the Reader's purpose in a story titled "WHAT WE ARE, IS WHAT WE IS."

"It's not big enough to be called a 'fish wrapper,'" McElroy explained. "You might be able to get a small perch wrapped inside it, but no respectable trout, of any size, would be caught dead wrapped in the Reader. He would have to go to the larger publications in town for that."

The Reader even included at least one classified ad in its final editions. It was time again to move on. "WANTED," the ad announced, "Ride to Denver... Call Gary."

McElroy worked odd jobs for the next decade. Landscaper. House painter. Glass factory worker.

In Mobile, he found his last stop.

"The Register was the answer to his raw prayers to write again," said his son, Michael. "He felt he couldn't devote time to both me and writing, but the years out of journalism really bothered him."

McElroy spent his days on courtroom benches, and his evenings holding his own court at The Bakery Cafe on Dauphin Street.There, as in his daily life, he wore smudged glasses and a broad smile, and wiped sweat from his brow with colored handkerchiefs. He kept copies of his next day stories folded in his pocket, and he carried a newspaper to do crosswords.

"He wrote the story as the story was supposed to be written," said Mobile attorney Steve Moore, who would see McElroy both in the courtroom and at the Bakery. "He worked really hard to make sure every story was factually accurate and fair to all the parties, and he certainly did not play preference."

McElroy married his longtime girlfriend, Sharon, at a ceremony between assignments. "Man Gets Life Without Parole," announced the headline on one of McElroy's stories published in the newspaper the next day.

McElroy retired in 2010. He was a voracious reader, with a lean toward history and politics and a habit of clearing shelves at the Mobile Public Library. He watched movies and read his books deep into the night, and doodled self-portraits in old notebooks.



In late February, McElroy, who had survived three heart attacks, went into respiratory distress at his home. He was taken to a hospital but never regained consciousness. At his instruction, his body was donated to the anatomical gifts program at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine.

In addition to his wife, Sharon McElroy of Mobile, and son, Michael McElroy of Raleigh, North Carolina, McElroy is survived by two sisters, Terri Clevenger of Cypress, Texas, and Donna Brown of Barnesville, Georgia; a niece; a nephew; a granddaughter; and several step-children and step-grandchildren.Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

Alabama's Best State Parks

Alabama's Best State Parks

Don't Edit

Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What a wonderful journey

What an incredible journey! Getting to see all of the beauty and splendor of Alabama's 21 state parks is a dream come true for an outdoors lover. I traveled by car and motorhome over 2,300 miles in September and had a chance to see these amazing state parks through the eyes of those that know them best, the rangers, managers and superintendents. These folks showed me not only the wonder of nature protected in these state parks, but their love and devotion to them. Here is a link to the collection of Alabama State Parks I visited.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

My top 10 favorite state parks

This was tough to narrow down. Each of Alabama's 21 state parks has a charm and identity that needs to be explored. Naturally I have a few favorites that would probably be on most folks' lists. But, this took some time. There are several state parks, not on this list, that I will definitely revisit soon. I finally asked myself this question: What state parks would I recommend to a person who has never visited any of them? So, here we go!

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

10. Wind Creek State Park

Wind Creek State Park encompasses 1,445 acres that hug the shoreline of beautiful Lake Martin, making the park an angler's paradise. Crappie, bluegill and striped bass are just a few of the species the lake has to offer. 586 campsites makes this one of the largest campgrounds in the state park system.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What I loved about it

The campground is one of the best I visited, with concrete pads, 50 amp. power, sewer and cable. The gorgeous views of Lake Martin surround the campground. I saw lots of wildlife and the fishing is fantastic!

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What to do

Visitors can launch a boat at the marina and see Lake Martin. The beach area offers a nice place to cool off and the pavilions offer a place for large gatherings. A visit to the Nature Center offers an up-close look at live critters. The camping is second to none. Here is a link to more info about Wind Creek State Park.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

9. Meaher State Park

Meaher State Park sits on 1,327 acres of the northern edge of Mobile Bay in Spanish Fort, Alabama. Nice RV campground, day use area, and access to thousands of acres of public waters on Mobile Bay and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta for boating, hunting and fishing.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What I loved about it

Meaher State Park is a cool little park that offers a retreat into nature in the shadow of the Mobile skyline. Once I entered the front gate I was immersed in natural beauty. The campground and fishing pier are within easy walking distance. In fact, you can walk anywhere in the park in less than 5 minutes. The boardwalk is a great way to see the natural beauty of the area, including alligators! And the sunsets are incredible!

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What to do

Camping at modern campsites right on the water is a huge draw for me. Also visitors can take a nature walk on the boardwalk. The fishing pier is a great place to catch fish and view incredible sunsets. There are two well appointed cabins and primitive camping as well. Here is more info about Meaher State Park.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

8. Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain State Park is located in Pelham, Alabama near I-65 in Shelby County. The park is one of the most visited parks in Alabama. Pristine lakes offer boating, fishing and swimming, and the mountain views are breathtaking.

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What I loved about it

Oak Mountain State Park is a great place to get away from the big city. The park is one of the most visited in the state due to its proximity to Birmingham and Hoover. I am very familiar with this park and have always enjoyed going there to just relax. The serenity of the lakes and woodlands and the spectacular autumn colors always draw me in.

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What to do

Oak Mountain State Park has so much to offer. From championship golf to horse riding, hiking and swimming, the park has something for everyone. The park is also a great place to see wildlife. Bird watchers flock to the park during migrations. The demonstration farm is a favorite for children and school groups. The new archery park is a favorite for bow hunters. BMX biking riding is growing in popularity with two riding tracks.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

7. DeSoto State Park

Continuing in the rustic tradition of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), mountainous DeSoto State Park is nestled atop beautiful Lookout Mountain in scenic Northeast Alabama and accented by many rushing waterfalls and fragrant wildflowers. Located in Fort Payne in DeKalb County, the park encompasses 3,500 acres.

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What I loved about it

One of the most beautiful places in the fall is Desoto State Park Falls. During autumn the park explodes with color from native hardwoods. It is such a peaceful place. One of my favorite places is the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk that ends at Azalea Cascade. It is an easy walk and well worth a visit.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What to do

DeSoto State Park Falls is the centerpiece of the park but there is lots more to do. The park offers a modern campground, cabins, chalets and primitive camping if you want to spend more than a day. The boardwalk to Azalea Cascade is a must see in spring and fall. The falls overlook is a great place for a picnic. Here is a complete look at DeSoto State Park.

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6. Cheaha State Park

Located at 19644 Highway 281 in Delta, Alabama, Cheaha State Park is the home to Alabama's highest point, 2,407 feet above sea level. The park has 2,799 acres with campground, lodge, restaurant, lake and many hiking trails. It was Alabama's first state park.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What I loved about it

The views! Majestic mountain vistas almost everywhere I looked. The park was built in the 1930's mostly by the Civilian Conservation Corps. and the stone work around the park is amazing. The hike to Bald Rock is one of the my favorite memories of my visit. The view from the swimming pool at the lodge and restaurant is stunning at sunset.

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What to do

The beautiful vistas at Alabama's highest point is the main reason to visit Cheaha State Park but there is lots more to do and see. The Bald Road Boardwalk hike is amazing! I can't wait to see it this autumn. There are two campgrounds at the park as well as a mountain top lodge and primitive camping. While visiting the highest point, check out the CCC Museum. A trip to Cheaha isn't complete without dining at the Cheaha Restaurant with a breathtaking view of the Talladega National Forest.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

5. Cathedral Caverns State Park

Cathedral Caverns State Park encompasses 461 acres. Originally called Bat Cave, Cathedral Caverns was opened to the public by Jacob Gurley in the 1950s. The cave was renamed because of its cathedral-like appearance. Purchased by the state in 1987, it was opened as a State Park in the summer of 2000. The park is located in Woodville, Alabama. The caverns tour travels over 3/4 mile.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What I loved about it

Cathedral Caverns is a subterranean wonderland. I visited the caverns on a 95 day. It was refreshing when we entered the cave and were greeted with a constant temperature of 59. The cave is now being outfitted with LED lighting and wow, what an improvement! The tour is awe inspiring! It is an easy walk with only a few elevation changes. The tour guides are very informative. It is a place you must visit.

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What to do

The cave tour is the centerpiece of any visit to Cathedral Caverns State Park. But there are other things to do. The park has an RV campsite and a nicely shaded primitive camping area. There are pavilions for picnics and gem stone mining for the kids. Snacks and souvenirs are available at the welcome center.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

4. Lakepoint State Park

Lakepoint Resort State Park is located on the banks of the 45,000-acre Lake Eufaula, also known as "The Bass Capital of the World." Lakepoint offers a variety of amenities such as a full service restaurant and lounge, marina, hiking trails, modern campground, swimming complex, tennis courts and playgrounds. The park sits on 1,220 acres near Eufaula, Alabama.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What I loved about it

Beautiful sunsets and quiet serenity is what I love about Lakepoint State Park. Lake views from the lodge and restaurant are stunning and the campground is shady and inviting. It was also fun to watch the alligators in their natural habit. Wildlife abounds at Lakepoint and can be easily viewed also anywhere.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What to do

There is lots to do at Lakepoint State Park. Lake Eufaula is known for world class freshwater fishing and the park offers boat launches and a marina to take advantage of the lake. The Waters Edge Restaurant has an extensive menu of fine food and the lodge and conference center has the space to accommodate large groups and weddings. The campground offers full hook-ups in a restful setting with water views. A beautiful pool and playground are near the cottages and cabins.

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3. Joe Wheeler State Park

Joe Wheeler State Park is nestled on 2,400 acres along the Tennessee River. The park touches Lauderdale, Limestone and Lawrence counties. Overnight accommodations, golf course, marina, day use area, and access to thousands of acres of public waters on Wheeler Reservoir for boating, swimming and fishing.

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What I loved about it

Joe Wheeler State Park offers amazing views of the Tennessee River and all that the river has to offer. The views from the lodge, marina and day use area are breathtaking. The food at the lodge restaurant was amazing. I saw deer on my drive into the park at mid-day and constantly saw wildlife through the park during my stay. Sunsets in the day use area are incredible.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What to do

Joe Wheeler State Park offers tremendous fishing and boating opportunities. The marina is one of the finest in the state. The golf course is a beautiful design and not far from the lodge. Disc golf is also available. The campground is spacious and quiet with views of the lake. The park offers several pavilions for large group gathering and picnics. There are lakeside cottages and cabins as well as primitive camping. The beach is a favorite place during summer months and the lodge pool offers water views. The park also has miles of well maintained hiking trails.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

2. Lake Guntersville State Park

Lake Guntersville State Park encompasses 6,000 acres in Guntersville, Alabama. The park features stunning views of Lake Guntersville from the lodge and surrounding overlooks. World class fishing, boating, golf and 36 miles of hiking trails make this one of my favorite state parks. the park also boasts a very healthy bald eagle population which draws thousands of visitors every year.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What I loved about it

Guntersville State Park is truly one of my favorites! I grew up in the mountains and this place reminds me of my childhood. It is a great place to get away and unwind. The amazing vistas of Lake Guntersville from the park lodge are truly breathtaking. The lodge is a great place to view spectacular sunsets and fall foliage. The park is teeming with wildlife and has one of the largest bald eagle populations in the state. It is just a wonderful place to visit. I recommend this park to anyone that asks me about Alabama State Parks. It is always on my short list of places people need to visit.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What to do

Lake Guntersville State Park has so much to offer. Fine dining, comfortable accommodations at the lodge, fishing, hiking and great places to camp out. the park has a challenging, well kept golf course within walking distance of the lodge. If you want to stay awhile, the park has a wonderful lakefront campground with full hook-ups , cabins, and chalets. The is also primitive tent camping. If you want to take a swim, the beach is a popular place and the lodge pool offers an amazing mountaintop view of Lake Guntersville. The lodge overlook is a great place to watch sunsets and see the fall foliage.

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1. Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park encompasses 6,150 acres on Alabama's beautiful Gulf Coast in Baldwin County. Overnight accommodations, extensive recreational trails, golf course, three interior lakes and access to thousands of acres of public waters on the Gulf of Mexico for boating, swimming and fishing, three miles of beaches, beach pavilion, educational pier on beach providing interpretive programs and improved recreational access to coastal waters, and zip line concession.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What I loved about it

Gulf State Park is a lot like the Gulf Coast in general: it is a state of mind. The park is one of the most visited vacation destinations in Alabama and visitors, including me, travel there to relax and unwind. There are many things to do and see at Gulf State Park from fishing to hiking and biking to just watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. I think that's the key, you can do everything or nothing at all.

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Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com

What to do

Gulf State Park offers so many options for visitors, from swimming and fishing to camping and hiking. The park fishing pier is a great place to fish or watch beautiful sunsets. The park has miles of paved hiking/biking trails with rest areas and even a butterfly house. The park offers many ways to stay on site. There are lakeside cottages and cabins, a modern RV campground with water views, primitive camping includes tent camping and the new Outpost "off the grid" campsites. Swimming options include the sugar white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and a huge pool (pictured above). There is even a live alligator at the Nature Center. The park has plenty of places to have a picnic and for larger groups the Beach Pavilion is a popular place for family reunions and beach weddings.

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Helpful links

21 Alabama State Parks I visited

Alabama State Parks website

More of Alabama's BestItalys anti-immigrant interior minister will likely run into obstacles, but his party is less constrained than before.

In his first weekend as Italys minister of interior, Matteo Salvini travelled to Pozzallo, Sicily, a harbour town that has become a main port of arrival for migrants and refugees saved by NGO vessels as they attempt to cross the Mediterranean Sea.

The leader of the far-right political party, the League, campaigned on a staunchly anti-immigrant platform, vowing to put Italians first and send half a million undocumented migrants home.

Salvinis decision to travel to Sicily on Sunday, his second full day as interior minister, indicated he will push the anti-immigration line as much in government as on the campaign trail.

The 45-year-old politician kept up his fiery rhetoric in the days before and after his swearing in.

On Thursday, while he was finishing up negotiations about who would be part of a coalition government made up of members from League and populist party Five Star Movement, Salvini tweeted a video depicting an immigrant plucking a pigeon on a busy street.

Go home! the tweet said.





That same day, Salvini told a rally in Sondrio, Lombardy: Open doors in Italy for good people and a one-way ticket for those who come to Italy to create commotion and think they will be taken care of. Send them home will be one of our top priorities.

Salvini added he wants to see cuts in what he claimed was the annual five billion euros ($5.8bn) spent on maintaining immigrants. In 2017, the government allocated about 4.2 billion euros ($4.9bn) for migrants and refugees arriving via Libya, nearly two-thirds of which went to reception centres.

Expulsion a priority

Salvinis stance on immigration has been enshrined in the 57-page government contract it agreed to with coalition partner Five Star Movement. The government, headed by Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, was inaugurated on Friday.

The immigration section of the policy document calls for the deportation of Italys estimated 500,000 undocumented immigrants as a priority, building more detention centres and a review of the European Unions Dublin Regulation, which stipulates that migrants and refugees apply for asylum in the first EU country they reach.

While the leader of Five Star Movement Luigi Di Maio is much less outspoken on immigration than Salvini, he has also referred to rescue NGO vessels as sea taxis.

Andrew Geddes, director of the Migration Policy Centre at the European University Institute in Florence, said the coalition partners are bound to run into some practical and legal obstacles when it comes to realising their policy plans.

If you want to expel people, youve got to have somewhere thats willing to take them, he told Al Jazeera.

Countries of origin or countries that migrants move through are very reluctant to take people back, Geddes said.

And if they do, they want compensation for doing that.

A government that wants a mass roundup of foreigners and seeks a rather swift expulsion is also likely to run into legal obstacles, Geddes said.

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Anything that is seen as arbitrary and not following the rules of the Constitution and protections would likely encounter difficulties.

But Geddes added that despite these constraints, the League also has newfound political freedom of movement.

In the past, [the Leagues] rhetoric was always tempered by the realities of being in complex coalitions, but this time around theres less in political terms to hold them back, he said.

Going underground

Arrivals by sea in Italy have decreased since last summer. The number of migrants in May was 83 percent lower than the same month last year.

A substantial drop in arrivals happened after Italy, with the backing of the EU, made a deal with the Libyan coastguard to intercept boats and take them back to Libya where those on board are detained  an agreement that UN human rights chief Zeid Raad al-Hussein called inhuman.

Still, 13,521 migrants and refugees have arrived in Italy by sea this year, according to the UN human rights agency, adding to the more than 600,000 who came ashore since the start of 2014.

One-hundred and fifty-eight arrived last Friday in Pozzallo after they were rescued from an overcrowded dinghy. The group included nine children and 36 unaccompanied minors.

The conditions in reception centres where migrants end up have been scrutinised by rights groups. In late 25, Doctors Without Borders (known by its French initials, MSF) ended its medical activities in two Italian reception centres where it said people were living in all-around precarious and undignified conditions.

Now, Salvini has pledged to cut their funding.





Andrea Menapace, director of the Italian Coalition for Civil Liberties and Rights, expressed concern for the hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants who are already in the country.

Irregular migrants in the country struggle with accessing lawyers, he said, at least in part because they fear being returned to where they came from.

If there is a police hunt for [undocumented migrants] its going to be extremely difficult to support them, because they are too scared, Menapace told Al Jazeera.

They are going to be underground. And we are talking about thousands and thousands of people  thats my fear. Even if they have a right to apply for asylum, even if they have the right to obtain a visa.

Populism in Europe

Beyond Italy, Andrew Geddes said the new Italian coalition could have an effect on policy at the European level as well.

The ideas put forward by populist parties have become much more mainstream, he said.

I think that government parties at the centre are quite concerned about the growth of these movements like [League] and are looking at elections in their own countries.

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz will assume the EUs presidency in July and has said he will aim to shift the focus of the blocs immigration policy.

In Europe, there should not only be a dispute over redistribution [of refugees], but also at last a shift of focus towards securing external borders, Kurz told a March news conference.

With the growth of parties who express anti-immigrant sentiment, Geddes said mainstream parties could become more likely to adapt or try to respond to populist ideas.

Kurzs position could carry quite a lot of critical weight, he said.If a nation is judged by the way it treats children, the United States should stand condemned. The latest manifestation of US President Donald Trumps racism and xenophobia is a set of inhumane policies that violate childrens human rights and place their lives in danger.

In recent months, the US authorities have taken to separating undocumented migrant children  even babies  from their parents at the US-Mexican border. Outrage has grown over the horrid practice, which serves to placate and incite the white supremacists among Trumps core supporters, who aspire to make the US a whites-only nation by halting the immigration of people of colour.

The US immigration system has been dysfunctional and cruel for years. Mass deportations took place even under President Barack Obama. A report from the American Civil Liberties Union found that detained immigrant children were subjected to widespread physical, sexual, psychological and verbal abuse and denial of food and water between 2009 and 2014, under the Obama administration.

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Each year, immigration officials apprehend and detain approximately 8,000 unaccompanied immigrant minors, who are not guaranteed a right to a lawyer. Some children in US custody have even been released to human traffickers in the past.

However, for the first time under the Trump administration, the government is now forcefully taking children away from their parents as part of an official punitive measure. Even people who are asylum seekers and fleeing violence and oppression in their home countries are not spared.

Officials are also preparing to imprison these children on military bases, in a move reminiscent of the internment of Japanese-Americans in concentration camps during World War II.

US Attorney General Jeff Sessions recently articulated the zero-tolerance crackdown on children, saying: If you are smuggling a child, then we will prosecute you and that child will be separated from you as required by law. If you dont like that, then dont smuggle children over our border.

From October until mid-April, before Sessions announcement, over 700 children had been separated from their families, including over 100 under the age of four. In one case, a Congolese woman was detained in a facility in San Diego after seeking asylum, while her seven-year-old daughter was locked up thousands of miles away in Chicago.

Between May 9 and May 15, 658 children were separated from their parents, who were then referred for prosecution. Undocumented parents who have been separated from their children are forced to wear yellow bracelets, eerily reminiscent of the yellow badges the Nazis forced Jews to wear.

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And because this is America, companies are already trying to profit from the racial exploitation and imprisonment of children. In Texas, Geo Group, a private prison corporation wrote legislation that  if passed  would have allowed family detention centres to be classified as childcare facilities, thereby increasing the time Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would have detained women and children. The company already has special transport buses designed solely for children, complete with child car seats with cupholders.

Trump, who has called immigrants animals, murderers and rapists from sh****le countries, has continued with his disgusting rhetoric. We have the worst immigration laws of any country, anywhere in the world. They exploited the loopholes in our laws to enter the country as unaccompanied alien minors, Trump has said, claiming, They look so innocent. Theyre not innocent.

Unfortunately, it is not surprising that Trumps anti-immigrant measures are so dehumanising. After all, their proponents are people who subscribe to white nationalist, xenophobic ideologies and are members of hate groups.

Trumps senior adviser Stephen Miller is a far-right and anti-immigration activist. Miller, who ironically is the great-grandson of Jewish refugees from Belarus, once helped Richard Spencer, the president of the white supremacist National Policy Institute, with fundraising and promotion for an on-campus debate on immigration policy.

Ronald Mortensen, Trumps nominee for assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, is a fellow at the Center for Immigration Studies. This organisation is a designated hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

White House Chief of Staff John Kelly  whose ancestors came to the US from Italy some decades ago  has claimed that undocumented immigrants are not people that would easily assimilate into the United States, into our modern society because they are rural, uneducated people who dont speak English. He also said recently that: The children will be taken care of  put into foster care or whatever.

Kris Kobach, Kansas secretary of state and Trump voter fraud adviser, is a candidate for governor of Kansas who has crafted draconian laws across the country, allowing state and local police unprecedented power to arrest suspected undocumented immigrants.

In a nation that has a history of kidnapping, brutalising and murdering people of colour for hundreds of years, migrant children are now being labelled the other and their mistreatment and abuse is being normalised.

What is happening now to them has never happened to white children. But it has happened to black and Native American children. During slavery, when black people were property and had no legal rights over their children, families were separated as a matter of course and were sold separately on the auction block. Similarly, Native American children were forcibly removed from their families and placed in white homes, institutions and boarding schools, in an attempt to assimilate them.

There will be no justice for the crimes committed in the past and the ones being committed now in Trumps America. As he said recently at the US Naval Academy commencement exercises, our ancestors tamed a continent and we are not going to apologise for America.

This is American fascism in action.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.The GCC crisis has inflicted significant financial loss on Qatar, but it has failed to bring it down.

Marwan Kabalan is the Director of Policy Analysis at the Arab Centre for Research and Policy Studies.

On the morning of June 5, 2017, Qataris woke up to the shocking news that their country was under blockade. The hostile move came from none other than its Arab neighbours and cofounders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, along with their ally, Egypt. The so-called quartet abruptly cut off diplomatic ties with Qatar and imposed travel and trade bans.

The shock and awe strategy was meant to precipitate the collapse of the Qatari government, or at least its capitulation. Thirteen demands were presented to Qatar. They included shutting down the Al Jazeera media network, reducing diplomatic relations with Iran, and closing a Turkish military base near Doha.

Qatar was also asked to pay reparations for years of alleged damages caused by its policies to the blockading countries.

It was disclosed later that the quartet had also considered military action against Qatar but the US Department of Defense, which has its largest military base in the Middle East in Qatar, had warned against it.

Qatar was taken by surprise by the Saudi-led diplomatic offensive and was unprepared for such a major escalation. However, the blockade largely failed to bring down the country and has made Doha that much more resilient.

Why Qatar was caught off guard on June 5, 2017

Before the blockade was imposed on June 5 last year, tensions flared within the GCC had already flared once before. In March 2014, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain withdrew their ambassadors from Doha, claiming that Qatar had not implemented a security pact for non-interference in their internal affairs.

Dohas independent foreign policy had irritated Riyadh and Abu Dhabi. However, the lack of sympathy from the Obama administration prevented Saudi Arabiaand the UAE from taking further action against Qatar.

Qatar may have incurred heavy financial costs as a result of the blockade - estimated at $43bn by Bloomberg - but it has become more independent than ever.

Doha also opted for reconciliation at that time, with the emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, seeking to have a fresh start with his neighbours. Hence, after the Riyadh agreement was concluded in November 2014, the three GCC countries returned their ambassadors to Doha and the leaders of Saudi Arabia, UAE and Bahrain attended the annual GCC summit in the Qatari capital in December 2014.

When the Saudi-led coalition launched an offensive against the Houthi rebels in 2015, Qatar sent troops to Yemen to support it. In January 2016, Qatar also withdrew its ambassador from Tehran in an act of solidarity with Saudi Arabia, following an attack by angry protesters on the Saudi embassy in Tehran. The Qatari government also considered providing financial support for the ailing Bahraini economy. Both Prime Minister of Bahrain, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Bahraini Crown Prince Salman Al Khalifa paid separate visits to Doha in February and March 2017 to discuss how Qatar can help in this matter.

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In short, the view from Doha was that relations with the three GCC countries were improving at a steady pace after the resolution of the 2014 crisis.

It turned out that what was perceived in 2014 to be the turning of a new page between the three GCC countries was nothing more than a short respite. Failing to secure the backing of the then-Obama administration, the blockading countries decided to bury the hatchet temporarily and wait for another opportunity to take care of unfinished business with Qatar, which they claim goes back over 20 years.

Donald Trumps victory in the 2016 US presidential elections changed the picture dramatically. With a new president in the White House willing to back them, Riyadh and Abu Dhabi were encouraged to resume the conflict and bring it to a decisive conclusion.

Why the blockade did not achieve the intended result

Despite all the pressure, however, Qatar, and to the surprise of many, decided to fight back. After surviving the initial shock, it launched a coordinated diplomatic effort.

The key objective was to freeze the conflict and prevent further hostile actions by the blockading countries. The focus of the campaign was Washington. After months of hard work, Qatar succeeded in changing the position of President Trump.

More importantly, Qatar won a solid US commitment towards its security. Following the first US-Qatar annual strategic dialogue in Washington, on January 30, 2018, the US Department of State issued a statement, expressing its desire to work jointly with Qatar to deter and confront any external threat to Qatars territorial integrity that is inconsistent with the United Nations Charter.

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On a different front, Qatar implemented a military agreement with Turkey, signed during the 2014 crisis, allowing for the expansion of Turkeys military presence in Qatar. And as a result of being forced to reroute flights to and from Doha through Iranian airspace, Qatar sent back its ambassador to Tehran.

In addition, cutting off supply routes through the blockading countries made Iran Qatars only access to secure food, water and medicine supplies. The trade balance between the two countries dramatically increased as a result, reaching $2bn over the past year.

The whole crisis has hence ended up producing the exact opposite result of the one intended by the blockading countries. Instead of reducing Qatars ties with Iran, it led to strengthening them, while Turkey has, for the first time, become part of Gulf security, through its military presence in Qatar. Al Jazeera is still on the air and continues to broadcast critical reports about the quartet.

Even the multi-million-dollar Saudi-UAE PR campaign to tarnish the image of Qatar and link it to activities related to financing terrorism has failed to produce the intended effects. The two GCC countries waged a covert information war to demonise Qatar and precipitate a shift in US policy towards it. They hired PR firms, lobbying groups, and paid think tanks to hold anti-Qatar public events.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE also employed political consulting firms, such as a subsidiary of SCL Group, the parent company of the political-research firm Cambridge Analytica, to lead an anti-Qatar media campaign. These efforts produced little impact, however. Qatar circumvented them by signing an agreement with the US in July 2017 aimed at combating the financing of terrorism.

Indeed, Qatar may have incurred heavy financial costs as a result of the blockade  estimated at $43bn by Bloomberg  but it has become more independent than ever. In fact, most Qataris believe today that they have achieved their real independence.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.Following the quiet rollback of Obama-era Wall Street regulations, the US may be on the verge of yet another crash.

The US financial regulatory agencies have weakened banking rules.



Then in late May, Congress voted to weaken them even further.



They went after the Volcker Rule which prohibits banks from making risky investments with depositors money.

The Volcker Rule is part of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which then President Barack Obama signed in 2010 into law after the last crash. It was a response to what was considered the leading causes of the crash, the banks part in it, the banks failures, and the necessity for the massive bailout.

Congress also voted to change the threshold of too big to fail  those financial institutions which are deemed important to the system and which have to be put under stricter regulations.

Previously, the threshold was at $50bn in assets, which put 35 banks on the list. The new threshold is $250bn, with only 10 banks that make the list.

The bankers argue that Dodd-Frank has impeded the efficient operation of the financial system, driving banks away from providing services valued by their customers, reducing competition in affected markets, and overall acting as a drag on the economy. Yet, banks have done fabulously well after they were rescued and since the regulations were introduced. Their profits are at record levels.

Of course, they say that the changes are necessary to help the small community banks, suffering under the weight of regulations. Of course, the data contradicts that. Earnings of community banks are up and they make business loans at twice the rate of non-community banks.

Weve seen this movie before.

After the crash of 1929, banks started failing en masse. It should be noted that before the crash, there was little regulation and less enforcement, and through the 1920s, an average of 600 banks a year went under. Then came the New Deal. It launched an immediate rescue of the banks and added a host of regulations. Bank failures virtually disappeared from the late 1930s until 1980. During most of those years, the number of bank failures was in the single digits.

In the early 1980s, however, one sector of the banking system, in particular, was deregulated  savings and loans. These were actually the kind of local, community banks depicted in the movie, Its A Wonderful Life. They were small, boring, and very safe. With deregulation, savings and loans were suddenly given a license to steal. The owners of the banks were not stealing from the banks, they were using the banks  with their respectability, their institutional and political clout, and their staffs  to do the stealing.

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Out of 3,234 savings and loans associations, 1,043 went under between 1986 and 1995. Almost every bank that collapsed or had to be closed, had engaged in frauds. The amount of fraud involved in the Crash of 2008 was probably the same.

But while more than 800 people have been convicted of fraud related to the savings and loans crisis, the number of criminal convictions was almost non-existent following the 2008 crash. Not because there was less crime, but due to cultural changes in prosecutors offices and legal changes coming from a very pro-business Supreme Court.

The savings and loans losses were valued at $519bn, back when that was considered serious money. A bailout of $480bn was necessary.

During the Bush administration once again, banking rules and their enforcement were relaxed and the 2008 financial meltdown followed.

More tax cuts, fewer Harley Davidson bikes

Trumps deregulation push is also accompanied by sweeping tax cuts. The major effect of the tax cuts is always for the rich. That pumps more money into the hands of the investor class. This creates a problem.

Events at Harley-Davidson that took place just as the Senate was passing their bill are the perfect illustration.

Donald Trump had praised it  Harley-Davidson is a true American icon, one of the greats  Thank you, Harley-Davidson, for building things in America.  and promised policies that would help them  And I think youre going to even expand. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan told their workers, and the rest of us, that the tax cuts would put American companies like Harley-Davidson on a much better footing to compete in the global economy and keep jobs in America. Its a successful company. Its pre-tax profits are $800m to a billion a year. Trumps tax billwill be saving them about $100m a year.

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What did they do in response? They spent $696m on a stock buyback and raised their dividends. Stock buybacks are a weird beast. They do push share prices up. But only because more money is going after the shares. Top management of most companies get a lot of their compensation based on share price. They make out very well. The stockholders do well. But they produce nothing. In fact, they take money out of the company just to inflate the share price.

On May 22, they announced they were closing a factory. Eight hundred workers were abruptly told they were losing their jobs. Another factory will increase production, making the net loss just 350 jobs. Though the company will use more part-timers and pay lower wages, too.

Harley is selling fewer bikes in the US. The reason is that the great mass of people, the bottom 90 percent, are making less money, especially the kind of people who buy motorcycles. Therefore, Harley Davidson cannot sell more products in the US.

Deregulation for the rich

This is emblematic of the whole system. Yes, investors have more money. No, they cant invest it in productive ways, because consumers cant consume any more. Theyre tapped out. What are the investors going to do? Stop investing? No. Using money to make more money is so logical that its practically a compulsion.

Investment necessarily shifts to financial products. The banks and other financial institutions see all that money around and see investors wanting to buy something. They have a problem. On the one side, there are companies that simply cant make more products to sell because, in the aggregate, not much more can be bought.

On the other side, there are rules to stop them from selling things that are too high risk, or that make no sense, or that essentially require fraudulent representation to get anyone to buy them. They cant change the economy. They dont really want to.

The idea of working people making more money, and themselves, perhaps less, has zero appeal. The only thing left to do is change the rules. They know perfectly well they can enrich themselves selling rubbish. If they bring the house down, someone else will pay the cost. Hence, they push for deregulation which eventually will bring down the financial sector, as has happened before.

According to President Ronald Reagan, the bill that deregulated the savings and loans in 1982, was the most important legislation for financial institutions in 50 years  I think weve hit the jackpot.

According to Congressman Jeb Hensarling, the new one is the most pro-growth banking bill in a generation. Today is an important day in the history of economic opportunity in America.

According to Yogi Berra, Its deja vu all over again.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.As of May 30, 32,080 people reached Europe by sea this year, while 660 died attempting the crossing.

At least 46 migrants drowned when their boat sank off Tunisias southern coast while dozens of others were rescued by the coastguard.

The rescue operation was ongoing, the defence ministry said on Sunday.

The coastguard and the navy continue their search with the support of a military plane, the interior ministry said in a statement.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) said there were more than 70 survivors from the shipwreck, with spokesman Flavio Di Giacomo cautioning on Twitter the final number of missing was still uncertain.

There were around 180 of us on board the boat  which sank because of a leak, a survivor told Tunisias Mosaique FM radio, describing the boat as nine metres long.

Another rescued person said the captain abandoned the vessel after it started sinking to escape arrest by the coastguard.

I survived by clinging to wood for nine hours, he said at a hospital in the southern city of Sfax, where dozens of people gathered to look for survivors and identify dead relatives.

Deadly journey

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The latest shipwreck is the most deadly in the Mediterranean Sea since February 2 when 90 people drowned off the coast of Libya, according to IOM.

Human traffickers increasingly use Tunisia as a launch pad for migrants heading to Europe as Libyas coastguard, aided by armed groups, has tightened controls.

Security officials said the boat was packed with about 180 migrants, including 80 from other African countries.

Unemployed Tunisians and other Africans often try to depart in makeshift boats from Tunisia to Sicily in Italy.

Separately, nine people including six children died on Sunday after a speedboat carrying 15 refugees sank off the coast of Turkeys southern province of Antalya, the Turkish coastguard said in a statement.

As of May 30, 32,080 people had reached Europe by sea so far this year, IOM said on its website. Some 660 had died attempting the crossing.Despite efforts to improve girls education in Afghanistan, just one in three currently attends school, UNICEF reports.

Just one in three girls are currently attending school in Afghanistan, marking the biggest drop in the number of school attendees since the Taliban were removed from power 16 years ago.

According to a report by UNICEF, some 3.7 million children between the ages of seven and 17, or 44 percent, are out of school, with girls accounting for 2.7 million of that figure, 60 percent.

The ongoing conflict and worsening security situation across the country, combined with deeply ingrained poverty and discrimination against girls, have pushed the rate of out-of-school children up for the first time since 2002 levels, UNICEFs Afghanistan country study said in a statement.

The spread of violence had forced many schools to close, undermining fragile gains in education for girls in a country where millions have never set foot in a classroom.

The report added that up to 85 percent of girls were not going to school in some of the worst-affected provinces, such as Kandahar, Helmand, Wardak, Paktika, Zabul and Uruzgan.

Adele Khodr, UNICEFs Afghanistan representative, said those out of school were at an increased danger of abuse, exploitation and recruitment [into armed gangs].

She also emphasised the importance of school in giving children a point of orientation amid the disruptions caused by conflict.

[Schooling] is about providing routine and stability in life, which is a wise investment given the insecurity across parts of the country, Khodr added.

Among others, the report also marked child marriage, shortage of female teachers and poor infrastructure as the main reasons further aggravating the situation.

Year of Education

Without mentioning the Taliban or the local chapter of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS), Education Minister Mirwais Balkhi said there were many reasons for children not going to school.

The Taliban have waged a rebellion against the Western-backed Kabul government since being toppled from power in 2001 and has intensified attacks across the country in recent months, despite the cold winter months.

Education of children is the most important development in all human communities, he said.

It is the most important tool in fighting war, poverty and unemployment.

This comes as the Afghan government has declared 2018 as the Year of Education.Qatari Defence Minister Khalid al-Attiyah says Doha and Tehran have differences but they could be resolved with talks.

A senior Qatari official has told an international security conference in Singapore that his country will not be dragged into any conflict with Iran.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Khalid bin Mohammad al-Attiyah said that Qatar has a lot of differences with Iran but it does not mean we go and fuel a war in the region.

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Is it wise to call the United States and to call Israel to go and fight Iran?  Whether any third party is trying to push the region or some country in the region to start a war in Iran, this will be very dangerous, he said.

He did not name any party but some speculate he could have been referring to Irans rival Saudi Arabia, which has also led a blockade of Qatar with three other countries since June last year, accusing Doha of supporting extremists and refusing to cut ties with Tehran.

Qatar rejects the accusation of supporting groups that are designated terrorists.

Iran is next door. We should call Iran, put all the files on the table and start to discuss to bring peace rather than war, he said in a speech.

Responding to a question on whether Qatars airbases could be used to launch attacks on Iran, al-Attiyah said that his country was not a fan of war and supported engagement and dialogue.

Qatar is hosting 10,000 US troops stationed at sprawling Al Udeid Air Base as part of its campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group and the war in Afghanistan.Justin Trudeau called the reasons for the imposition of tariffs by the US frankly insulting and unacceptable.

Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau lashed out at United States plans to impose tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium for national security reasons, saying his soldiers had fought and died with American troops in Afghanistan.

The remarks came after finance ministers from the Group of Seven industrialised countries (G7) expressed outrage over US-imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum and called on Washington to reverse course.

One of the things that I have to admit Im having a lot of trouble getting around is the idea that this entire thing is coming about because the president and the administration have decided that Canada and Canadian steel and aluminum is a national security threat to the United States, Trudeau said in an interview on NBCs Meet the Press on Sunday.

Trudeau called the reasoning frankly insulting and unacceptable.

The idea that our soldiers who have fought and died together in the mountains of Afghanistan and stood shoulder to shoulder, somehow this is insulting to them, he said.

Overreacting

Larry Kudlow, Trumps top economics adviser, dismissed criticism of the administrations stance as overblown on Fox News Sunday.

I think hes overreacting, he said of Trudeau. As a fine friend and ally of the United States, nobody denies that. But the point is we have to protect ourselves.

Kudlow acknowledged the dispute over trade could jeopardise a US economy that is now clicking on all cylinders with surging growth and low unemployment.

It might. I dont deny that. You have to keep an eye on it, he added.

But Kudlow defended Trumps actions as aimed at reforming a global trading system rife with rule-breaking.

Dont blame Trump. Blame China, blame Europe, blame NAFTA. Blame those who dont want reciprocal trading, tariff rates and protections. Trump is responding to several decades of trade abuses here, he said.

Trudeau said the reciprocal tariffs would hurt both US and Canadian workers and consumers.Beijing says any trade agreements reached with Washington will be void if US implements tariffs.

China warned the United States that any agreements reached on trade and business between the two countries will be void if Washington implements tariffs and other trade measures, as the two ended their latest round of talks in Beijing.

If Washington moves forward with sanctions, all the economic and trade achievements negotiated by the two parties will be void, Xinhua state news agency said in a statement on Sunday.

The discussions in Beijing, led by US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, were intended to ease tensions after Washington said on Tuesday it would follow through with tariffs on Chinese imports despite a truce reached between the two sides last month.

Beijing said the two sides had made positive and concrete progress on matters like increasing agricultural and energy imports but said details were left for both sides to finalise.

China is willing to increase imports from all countries in the world, including the United States, the statement said.

But Beijing warned all the results were premised on not fighting a trade war.

The two countries have threatened tit-for-tat tariffs on goods worth up to $150bn each.

Our meetings so far have been friendly and frank, and covered some useful topics about specific export items, Ross said, in brief comments to reporters.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had said on Saturday that the United States wanted this weekends talks to result in structural changes to Chinas economy, in addition to increased Chinese purchases of American goods.

The purchases are partly aimed at shrinking the $375bn US goods trade deficit with China.

I want to be clear, this isnt just about buying more goods, this is about structural changes, Mnuchin said.

But I also fundamentally believe that if there are structural changes that allow our companies to compete fairly, by definition, that will deal with the trade deficit alone.

Trade analysts had warned the US hand might be weakened by its decision to go ahead with tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada, Europe and Mexico.

That might alienate allies who share complaints about Chinese technology policy and a flood of low-priced steel, aluminium and other exports they say are the result of improper subsidies and hurt foreign competitors.The planned June 12 Trump-Kim summit took centre stage at the Asian security conference in Singapore.

Singapore  Defence officials from countries around the world are worrying aloud that the June 12 US-North Korea summit may repeat failed efforts at denuclearising the Korean Peninsula.

Prospects for the historic meeting between President Donald Trump and North Korea leader Kim Jong-un took centre stage at a weekend Asian security conference attended by defence chiefs from over 40 countries, with sentiments ranging from guarded optimism to downright scepticism.

Song Young-moo, South Koreas defence minister, called the Trump-Kim summit, to be held in politically neutral Singapore, a precious opportunity for a new era of peace and economic prosperity in Northeast Asia.





I hope President Trump and Chairman Kim come to a historical agreement for complete denuclearisation and complete peace on the Korean Peninsula, Song said.

On multiple occasions, Chairman Kim has declared a desire for complete denuclearisation and President Trump to end hostilities and achieve economic cooperation.

But Song acknowledged the failure of past international efforts to achieve denuclearisation. The collapse of nuclear agreements struck in 1994 and 2005 contributed to North Koreas outcast status among world leaders.

There must be CVID (complete, verifiable and irreversible dismantlement), and it must be enforced, and I believe Kim Jong-un will embrace it, Song said.

Japanese Defence Minister Itsunori Onodera strongly doubted North Koreas sincerity, insisting it must altogether end its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

We have seen history repeat where North Korea would declare to denuclearise, thereby portraying itself as conciliatory and forthcoming, only to turn around to void all international efforts toward peace, Onodera said.

Onodera added, In light of how North Korea has behaved in the past, I believe that it is important not to reward North Korea solely for agreeing to have a dialogue.

Canadian Defence Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan also urged a verifiable dismantling of North Koreas nuclear programme. North Korea has failed to deliver on promises in the past, and the world should judge its sincerity by its actions, he said.

US Defence Secretary James Mattis acknowledged the high-stakes nature of the Trump-Kim US summit.

Obviously, the eyes of the world, the hopes of the world are on these talks, he said.





Mattis did not address concerns over Trumps failure to consult regional partners on decisions such as the cancellation of the summit.

But on Sunday, he said that North Korea will receive relief only after it takes clear and irreversible steps to end its nuclear programme.

The US defence secretary said he expected at best, a bumpy road to the [neogitiaitons].

At the conference, Mattis also said that the presence of some 28,500 US forces based in South Korea is not on the table  nor should it be, at the June 12 summit.

US troops have been stationed in South Korea since a 1953 armistice that left the two Koreas technically still at war. South Korean President Moon Jae-in supports an ongoing US troop presence, while North Korea has long sought a withdrawal.

Obviously, if the diplomats can do their work, if we can reduce the threat, if we can restore confidence-building measures with something verifiable, then, of course, these kinds of issues can come up, Mattis said.

US-China tensions

Also at the conference  formally called the Shangri-La Dialogue, and organised by the International Institute for Strategic Studies  the US and China exchanged harsh words over Chinas military build-up in the South China Sea, one of the worlds busiest and most bitterly contested waterways, through which five trillion dollars in shipping trade passes annually.

For the last several years, China has engaged in a rapid construction of artificial islands with military facilities and weapons systems.

Despite Chinas claims to the contrary, the placement of these weapon systems is tied directly to military use for the purposes of intimidation and coercion, Mattis said.

Mattis comments met fierce disagreement from a Chinese general at the forum.

Any irresponsible comments from other countries cannot be accepted, said Lieutenant General He Lei, asserting that China has the right to deploy troops and weapons on its own territory.Slovenia was a key transit point during the European refugee crisis with about half a million passing through in 2015.

The anti-immigrant SDS party of veteran right-wing leader Janez Jansa won Slovenias parliamentary election, but now faces a difficult task in courting a coalition partner to govern.

The centre-right Slovenian Democratic Party secured 25 percent of the vote, the State Election Commission said late on Sunday.

The anti-establishment LMS party of comedian-turned-politician Marjan Sarec had 12 percent, followed by the centre-left Social Democrats with 10 percent, and the SMC party of outgoing Prime Minister Miro Cerar at 9 percent.

The results mean a coalition government will have to be formed because no party achieved a majority.

In a statement after polls closed, Jansa, 59, said he was committed to forming a government for the good of all our citizens and to ensure a safe Slovenia.

Sarec said he also expects to be in position to form the government and is ruling out a coalition with Jansa. Most parties said before the vote they were unlikely to join an SDS-led government because of its harsh stance towards migrants.

Crossing all red lines

Speaking to the POP TV station after polls closed, Sarec said he was very happy with the preliminary results, hinting it could give him the opportunity to band with other parties to keep Jansa out of power.

During the campaign Sarec said Jansas anti-immigration rhetoric crossed all the red lines.

Jansa  a two-time prime minister  was forced to resign five years ago after a corruption scandal but has made a comeback, thanks in part to his strong talk on immigration.





The right-wing leader, who formed a close partnership with populist Hungarian leader Viktor Orban, has vowed to defend the Schengen border of Europe.

Slovenia was a key transit route for migrants and refugees trying to reach northern European states during the European refugee crisis of 2015.

Most were fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

No single party is expected to pick up a majority in Sundays election and other parties have promised not to work with Jansa if there is no outright winner.

Easy stance

Balkan analyst, Klisman Murati, told Al Jazeera that rhetoric on immigration was being used to distract from economic issues.

Its an easy stance to take if you tell the people immigration is the main issue and thats why your country is not prospering, he said.

Its worked to an extent in the US, its worked as a start-up movement in France with Marine Le Pen, Its taken popularity in other EU countries.

Far-right and anti-immigration parties have made massive gains across Europe in recent years.

Anti-immigration parties have won elections in Italy, Poland, and Hungary, and are part of a coalition government in Austria.

Prime Minister Miro Cerar resigned in March after the Supreme Court ruled to annul a September 2017 referendum vote in support of a one billion euro ($1.17bn) railway project.

Slovenia, once part of the former Yugoslavia, joined the EU in 2004. It has used the euro as its official currency since 2007.Israel says it targeted Hamas positions in retaliation to rocket fire, days after a ceasefire came into effect.

Israel launched a series of air raids on Palestinian positions in the besieged Gaza Strip, in what it said was in response to rocket fire from the enclave.

Israeli warplanes hit at least 15 targets belonging to Hamas armed wing, the Al Qassam Brigades, the Israeli military said early on Sunday.

There were no reports of injuries.

The attacks targeted at least three Hamas compounds in the northern part of the strip. There was no immediate comment from Hamas on the attacks.

The strikes came days into a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. The truce went into effect on May 30, following one of the worst days of violence in Gaza since the 2014 Israeli assault on the strip.

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On Wednesday, Hamas said that armed groups in the Gaza Strip had agreed to a deal with Israel following a night of air attacks targeting several Hamas and Islamic Jihad positions in the coastal enclave, so long as the occupier did the same  referring to Israel.

Last week, Israel hit more than 35 targets belonging to Hamas and Islamic Jihad, after the Israeli army said Palestinian fighters were behind a barrage of projectiles fired from Gaza into southern Israel.

The escalation came after Islamic Jihad vowed to take revenge after a deadly attack against its members last month.

120 Palestinians killed in Gaza

Sundays attacks came a day after Razan al-Najjar was killed by Israeli live fire during a protest, which was the 10th Friday demonstration held by Palestinians since March 30 near the fence with Israel dubbed the Great March of Return.

The 21-year-old volunteer paramedic died of a gunshot wound in Khan Younis, a city in the south, the Palestinian health ministry said. According to witnesses, al-Najjar was shot in her white uniform while running towards the fortified fence to help a casualty.

Since March 30, 120 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since the popular protests began calling for the Palestinians right of return to the homes from which they were expelled from in 1948. More than 13,000 others have been wounded.

In a statement, the Israeli army blamed Hamas, the group governing Gaza, of activities that took place in the strip over the weekend, referencing the demonstration that had taken place near the fence with Israel.

Last week, residents in Gaza attempted to break a 12-year crippling siege that has trapped more than two million Palestinians since 2006. Some 17 people had sailed off the coast of Gaza with the intention of reaching Cyprus, before Israel forces intercepted the boat and transferred it to the Israeli port of Ashdod.

With severe restrictions on access to basic services, Gaza  home to more than two million people  has been dubbed the worlds largest open-air prison.Jordan sees largest anti-government protests in years

One of the most stable countries in Middle East is seeing growing frustration over tax increases and calls for the government to resign.Kenya launches scheme to export crude oil

In an unprecedented bid to capiltalise on the countrys reserves, the first convoy of trucks set off from the northwestern Turkana region to the coast.Riot police and protesters clash in Masaya as death toll from more than a month of unrest exceeds 100.

At least six people have been killed in Nicaragua on Saturday as political unrest that has plagued the country for more than month continued.

The Nicaraguan Association for the Protection of Human Rights (ANPDH) said the dead included a 15-year-old boy, as well as one police officer.

Residents set up barricades to protect themselves from what they said were police and pro-government paramilitaries.

Managuas auxiliary Roman Catholic Bishop Silvio Baez called on people in Masaya to stay indoors and warned of snipers.

The situation is very difficult. I have been told there are multiple snipers ready to shoot! he said on Twitter.

Police blamed the violence on criminal groups with firearms and mortars who they said carried out terrorist acts.

Police in riot gear riding on the back of pick-up trucks fire their shotguns towards university students taking part in a protest against Nicaraguas President Daniel Ortega in Managua. [Esteban Felix/AP Photo]

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In the capital of Managua, a US citizen was shot dead. According to ANPDH, the 48-year-old was killed by a pro-government mob. Police attributed the killing to anti-government protesters.

US Ambassador Laura Dogu expressed her condolences in a tweet and said: The death of a US citizen is of great concern to our embassy.

Police reported looting, fires and riots in cities including Masaya and Managua between Friday and the early hours of Saturday.

Lethal force

The violence comes days after 16 were killed in anti-government protests on Nicaraguas Mothers Day.

More than 100 people have died in the country since the unrest began in April.

Protesters have taken to the streets, demanding President Daniel Ortega stand down. Authorities have been accused of using lethal force to crack down on the protests.

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Ortega, a former Sandinista rebel who first ruled between 1979 and 1990 before returning as president 11 years ago, has kept power by maintaining leftist rhetoric while ensuring an accommodation with powerful private industry and keeping up trade with the United States.

But demonstrators have voiced frustration over corruption, the autocratic style of Ortega and Murillo, limited options to change the countrys politics in elections, and the presidents control over Congress, the courts, the military and the electoral board.Qatar blockade: Surge in food imports from Iran

People living in Qatar are unlikely to forget the neighbours willing to lend a hand when they needed it most.Kingdom says it continues to hold nine others as rights groups condemn the arrests and call for the activists release.

Saudi Arabia has temporarily released eight people accused of communicating with organisations hostile to the kingdom, but is holding nine others in detention, state news agency SPA reported on Saturday.

The public prosecutor said it had interrogated people arrested last month, some of whom human rights groups identified as womens rights activists.

In a statement, the public prosecutor said the detainees had admitted to communicating and cooperating with individuals and organisations opposed to the kingdom, recruiting people to get secret information to harm the countrys interests, and offering material and moral support to hostile elements abroad.

At least 17 people have been arrested, eight of whom have been temporarily released including five women and three men until the completion of their procedural review.

The statement did not identify the detainees.

Nine people, five men and four women, remain in detention after sufficient evidence was made available and for their confessions of charges attributed to them.

The government announced two weeks ago that seven people had been arrested for suspicious contacts with foreign entities and offering financial support to foreign enemies, and said other suspects were being sought. It did not name the detainees.

Human rights activists targeted

International human rights organisations have reported the detention of at least 11 activists since mid-May. Those arrested were mostly women who previously campaigned for the right to drive and an end to the kingdoms male guardianship system, which requires women to obtain the consent of a male relative for major decisions, rights groups said.

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On Friday, Amnesty International said that four activists had been released. It added that the conditions of their release were unknown.

Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East director at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement last week that the Saudi government seems so consumed with silencing dissent that even activists who have gone quiet for fear of retribution are being targeted again.

She added: The Saudi authorities should be concerned that the chill created by this new wave of repression will lead the countrys allies to question how serious Saudi Arabia is about changing its approach to womens rights, she added.

The UN human rights office (OHCHR) has also condemned the arrests and called on Saudi Arabia to release the activists.

If, as it appears, their detention is related solely to their work as human rights defenders and activists on womens issues, they should be released immediately, OHCHR spokeswoman Liz Throssell said at a press briefing on Tuesday.

The agency called on Saudi Arabia to provide information about the arrested activists and ensure their legal rights were guaranteed.

ALQAST, an independent Saudi human rights organisation, rejected the government charges against the human rights activists in a statement published on its website on Saturday.

ALQAST insists communication is a basic right of civil society, and the authorities are trying to criminalise human rights work, the statement said.

Activists and diplomats have speculated that the new wave of arrests may be aimed at appeasing conservative elements opposed to social reforms pushed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, commonly known as MBS. It may also be a message to activists not to push demands out of sync with the governments own agenda, they said.

On Sunday, the chief of Saudi Arabias religious police, officially known as the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, hailed the prosecutors statement and warned against groups and individuals who target the governments security and stability.

State-backed media had labelled those held as agents of embassies, unnerving diplomats in Saudi Arabia, a key ally of the United States.

MBS has courted Western allies in a bid to open up the deeply conservative Muslim kingdom and diversify its oil-dependent economy, the regions largest.The United States was singled out by some of its closest allies over the imposition of tariffs that they warn will undermine open trade and weaken confidence in the global economy.

The dispute over US President Donald Trumps new levies on steel and aluminum imports from the European Union (EU), Mexico and Canada is driving a wedge in the G7 group of industrial nations.





Following Saturdays conclusion of a three-day meeting of G7 finance ministers, Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau issued a summary saying the other six members want Trump to hear their message of concern and disappointment over the US trade actions.

Allies, including Canada and the EU, are threatening retaliatory tariffs.

The G7 ministers urged US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to deliver their message before leaders of the groups member countries meet next week in Quebec.

Ministers urged the US to abandon the tariffs ahead of the leaders summit before the move causes deeper divisions within the G7.

The international community is faced with significant economic and security issues, which are best addressed through a united front from G7 countries, said the summary, which was agreed to by the attending ministers.

Members continue to make progress on behalf of our citizens, but recognise that this collaboration and co-operation has been put at risk by trade actions against other members, it added.

Destructive

Bruno Le Maire, Frances finance and economy minister, was blunt in his assessment of the Whistler meeting, where ministers confronted Mnuchin.

It has been a tense and tough G7  I would say its been far more a G6 plus one than a G7, said Le Maire, who called the tariffs unjustified.

We regret that our common work together at the level of the G7 has been put at risk by the decisions taken by the American administration on trade and on tariffs, he said.

Mnuchin disagreed with Le Maire.





I think there was a comment out there that [this was] the G6 plus one. It was not.  We believe in the G7, its an important group, Mnuchin said at his own news conference.

Im sure that the president looks forward to coming to Canada and meeting all the other leaders with many, many important issues going on throughout the world.

Morneau, who presided at the ministerial meeting in Whistler, said even though the group found common ground on many subjects, G7 members are now forced to do whatever they can to persuade Trump to withdraw the tariffs.

They actually are destructive. And thats consistently held across the six countries that expressed their point of view to Secretary Mnuchin, Morneau told reporters.

The US president has said the tariffs are needed to protect US steel and aluminum industries vital to the nations security.Slovenia was a key transit point during the European refugee crisis with around half a million passing through in 2015.

Polls have opened in Slovenia for the countrys parliamentary elections with the anti-immigration Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) set to pick up most votes.

SDS leader and former Prime Minister Janez Jansa was forced to resign five years ago after a corruption scandal but has made a comeback, thanks in part to his strong rhetoric on immigration.

The right-wing leader, who formed a close partnership with populist Hungarian leader Viktor Orban, has vowed to defend the Schengen border of Europe.





Slovenia was a key transit route for migrants and refugees trying to reach northern European states during the European refugee crisis of 2015.

Most were fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

No single party is expected to pick up a majority in Sundays election and other parties have promised not to work with Jansa if there is no outright winner.

Balkan analyst, Klisman Murati, told Al Jazeera that rhetoric on immigration was being used to distract from economic issues.

Its an easy stance to take if you tell the people immigration is the main issue and thats why your country is not prospering, he said.

Its worked to an extent in the US, its worked as a start-up movement in France with Marine Le Pen, Its taken popularity in other EU countries.

Far-right and anti-immigration parties have made massive gains across Europe in recent years.

Anti-immigration parties have won elections in Italy, Poland, and Hungary, and are part of a coalition government in Austria.

Prime Minister Miro Cerar resigned in March after the Supreme Court ruled to annul a September 2017 referendum vote in support of a 1 billion euro ($1.17bn) railway project.

Polls close at 7pm (17:00 GMT) with results expected on Sunday evening.Assad to make rare international visit in what would be first by a foreign head of state since Kim Jong-un took power.

Syrias President Bashar al-Assad is set to visit North Korea in what would be the first visit by an international head of state to the country since Kim Jong-un came to power, North Korean state media reported.

Assad is said to have told the North Korean envoy to Damascus, Mun Jong-nam, that he would make the trip during a meeting on May 30.





I am to visit the DPRK and meet HE Kim Jong-un, Assad is quoted as saying, using the acronym for North Koreas full name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.

I am sure that he will achieve the final victory and realize the reunification of Korea without fail, Assad added.

There was no immediate comment from the Syrian presidents office.

Pyongyang and Damascus maintain good relations, and United Nations monitors have accused North Korea of cooperating with Syria on chemical weapons, a charge North Korea denies.

Both countries have faced international isolation, North Korea over its nuclear weapons programme, and Syria over its tactics during its bloody civil war.

Since taking power in 2011, Kim has not publicly met another head of state in North Korea.

Close military cooperation between the two countries began when North Korea sent some 530 troops  including pilots, tank drivers and missile personnel  to Syria during the Arab-Israeli war in October 1973.US tariffs: France warns against trade war with allies

US allies are calling on Washington to make a move to de-escalate tensions over tariffs, but President Trump is not backing down.About the show

A weekly programme that examines and dissects the worlds media, how they operate and the stories they cover. Watch The Listening Post every Saturday at 0830GMTThe Founding Fathers ardently believed that the endurance of the American experiment depends on a well informed population. Thomas Jefferson candidly said, "An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people."

For the first century of the nation's history, public and private schools were run at the local level, with ample parental involvement and minimal government oversight. During this period, the United States was a beacon for freedom  especially after the Civil War  eventually becoming the world leader in economic innovation and entrepreneurship.

The U.S. education system, which was unique in its decentralized and inclusive (for its time) nature, helped America leapfrog much older European nations, most of which continued to hold on to their hierarchical and centralized education approaches. By the end of World War I, in 1918, the United States was the world's undisputed economic leader and a place to which millions flocked seeking opportunity and escaping tyranny.

Yet, during this period of expansion and innovation, a monumental shift began to take place in the U.S. education system: after decades of educators operating outside the reach of government bureaucrats, the wall that separated education and government came crashing down.

Beginning in the Progressive Era, education "reformers" embarked on their utopian (or dystopian, depending on your point of view) quest to mold future generations to be in line with their left-wing beliefs, especially the notion that government is a force for good and central planning performed by so-called "experts" is superior to a model that permits ordinary citizens to educate themselves make their own decisions. Progressive reformers such as John Dewey advocated increasing government's role in education so they could steer society in the direction of greater government control in all aspects of life. Over time, their plan  sold to the public as essential for ensuring that everyone received a "high-quality" education  worked to near perfection.

During the decades that followed, the inherently corrupt relationship between government and schools grew immensely. The days in which parents and local governments determined the course of education polices have in many communities disappeared. Bureaucrats and lawmakers in state capitals and Washington, D.C. now issue edicts governing virtually everything, from what students eat for lunch to what they learn in history class.

For those who support individual liberty, the question inevitably arises: will government control of American schools result in the death of freedom and capitalism? Not necessarily. In recent years, as government has tightened its grip over education, a massive backlash movement, led by parents, has emerged that has challenged the role government should play in education.

This movement is partially the result of government overreach, but it's also due in part to the government's utter failure to provide children with a good education. Government schools are drowning in debt; test scores have flatlined (at best); and many public school teachers continue to demand even cushier benefits and pay, all while enjoying exceptional job security and benefits that rarely, if ever, can be found in the private sector.

Parents have finally had enough. In cities across the nation, parents are demanding greater school choice. Parents are insisting on increased access to private schools, charter schools, education savings accounts  anything other than failing government-run schools.

Sadly, government school advocates are now using personal attacks against parents who use education choice to send their children to other available education options. They now call them "selfish" and say they should leave their children in their local government-assigned school for the greater good of the community.

In a May 9 article in The Washington Post, former U.S. secretaries of education Arne Duncan and Margaret Spellings argued that education should be a national policy priority, not something left to local communities to decide on their own. In a Trojan horse manner, Duncan and Spellings advocated for more choice and "local innovation," but they also say they want the federal government to hold schools accountable through "higher expectations," "strong standards," oversight, and incentives. Duncan and Spellings are disingenuous at best, because their plan to increase federal intrusion in education has been shown to be detrimental to the preservation of education and individual freedom.

So-called "federal accountability policies" and other mandates won't solve America's education crisis, but shifting control of the education system back to the levels closest to the student  parents and local governments  would usher in a whole new era of American innovation and prosperity.

Parents want the best education for their children, know how their children learn best, and nearly always have the best interest of their children in mind. While some bureaucrats express their desire to do what is best for children, they will never match the devotion parents have. With that in mind, it makes perfect sense for parents, not the government, to choose what type of education their children receive.

Chris Talgo (CTalgo@heartland.org) is an editorial assistant at The Heartland Institute and writer for Heartland's American Exceptionalism website. Lennie Jarratt (LJarratt@heartland.org) is a project manager for The Heartland Institute.While staunch supporters are still a little slow to come around to the idea, most have reached the conclusion by now that the Affordable Care Act  AKA Obamacare  isn't everything it was billed to be. While it's made health care more affordable for a few, it's ultimately driven up costs for the rest of the American population.

It's an age-old question that's miffed politicians and lawmakers for decades, but it's worth asking again: is there a way to make health care affordable for the masses without government overreach?

Obamacare: A Failure of Epic Proportions

While we'll have to wait a number of years to understand the full impact of Obamacare, it's not a stretch to call it a total failure. Yes, 20 million people picked up health insurance from 2010 to 2016, but that's about the only positive piece of news to report. The rest of the country has suffered or will suffer as a result of Obamacare's shortcomings in the next few months or years.

For a health insurance policy known as the Affordable Care Act, there's nothing affordable about the program. Even the liberal New York Times has finally come to accept this reality, reporting that "Obamacare's marketplaces and Medicaid expansion make health coverage a good deal for those near the poverty line, but those earning not much more still often struggle to pay health plan premiums, and face deductibles that are much higher than those seen in a typical employer health plan."

Another key promise of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was that individuals would be able to keep their plans and doctors. Obama repeatedly looked Americans in the eyes and told them this. Yet, as predicted by opponents from the very beginning, this hasn't happened. Insurers have been forced to pull out of markets, and many have been unable to access their preferred health care providers with plans they received on the health care marketplace.

Another key premise of Obamacare was that every American would be insured, either through subsidies or by forcing those who could buy it to purchase a plan. However, the Congressional Budget Office projects that by 2023  more than ten years after implementation  31 million people will still be uninsured.

Politics aside, Obamacare has been good for a few and a disaster for the rest. Lawmakers have given affordable care to a fraction of the population at the expense of the majority. However you want to look at it, the results have been bleak. They've also served as a reminder that it's challenging, if not impossible, to make health care more affordable with government overreach.

Ideas and Suggestions for Affordable Health Care

While the term "affordable health care" has unfortunately become synonymous with Obamacare and left-wing politics, the reality is that every American  Republican and Democrat alike  wants high-quality medical care that's also affordable to the masses. However, as we've seen over the past five-plus years, government overreach isn't the answer.

In order to repeal and replace Obamacare and ensure that the majority of the population has access to affordable health care, we must find a way to reform the current health care and insurance industries without having politicians overextend their powers.

Here are some suggestions:

Expand Tax Credits

One of the biggest problems is that tax credits have been limited to only the poorest of the poor. In order to make health care affordable, tax credits need to be expanded to middle-class Americans. The more credits people get, the more likely that they'll be to invest in plans that are both affordable (from a monthly premium perspective) and usable (from a deductible perspective).

Encourage Alternative Plans and Care

Perhaps the biggest suggestion is to encourage alternative plans and health care. Not only does this reduce the cost of care, but it also gives people the freedom to choose. This results in greater independence and satisfaction. Examples include:

Telemedicine. With all of the recent advances in technology, there's no excuse for telemedicine not to become a mainstream part of the industry. It's significantly more cost-effective and convenient. It also encourages individuals to seek out care early on, which prevents some chronic health issues and serious diseases. iCliniq is a good example. It's a medical second opinion platform in which users pay a fee and get direct access to licensed doctors and medical experts.

Health sharing plans. Health sharing plans are also fantastic alternatives. While they act similar to insurance, they aren't insurance at all. Instead, the monthly premiums of all users are put into one big "pot" that is redistributed based on the monthly expenses incurred by users. While health sharing plans do get an exemption under current Obamacare rules, they still aren't granted all the same advantages that traditional insured individuals get. Popular health sharing plans include Liberty Healthshare, Medi-Share, Samaritan Ministries, and Christian Healthcare Ministries.

More generous HSA rules. Millions of Americans currently use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to make their out-of-pocket health care expenses more affordable. The IRS could loosen up some of the restrictions and increase the contribution amount to incentivize more people to participate.

Negotiate Better Provider Reimbursements

When the ACA was drafted, one of the big ideas was that fees would be set for doctors, hospitals, and clinics (in a manner similar to that of Medicare). In fact, the ACA requires insurance companies to follow the 80/20 rule, in which they must spend 80 percent of premiums on health care delivery and the rest on wages and administrative costs.

As Sadie Tuescher wrote in an editorial for the Chicago Tribune last year, "[t]he 80/20 rule is a great idea, but it has a fatal flaw: Insurance companies and providers have figured out that if they just raise the 80 percent, their 20 percent gets bigger too. Leaving the 80/20 rule intact and negotiating provider reimbursements will bring costs down for consumers and require hospital conglomerates to spend our health care dollars wisely."

Put a Cap on Drug Prices

Finally, we desperately need caps on drug prices in this country. While drug corporations should be able to make healthy profits, there have to be some reasonable price caps (as there are in the oil and gas industry). Currently, they're charging whatever they want and making insurance providers pick up the rest. This cost is ultimately passed down to individuals and throws a monkey wrench into the system.

Is There a Perfect Solution?

Affordable health care may seem like an impossible dream, but if you look at other countries, it's clear there are ways to achieve it on a national scale. The key is to avoid government overreach and encourage autonomy among patients and insurers. When this is done, everything else will fall into place.For thousands of years, Arabs lived in an authoritarian paternalistic culture. There was always a headman, a chief, a dictator, or a know-it-all who had the answers or resources who had to be followed and obeyed. This "follower mentality" had great heuristic value. It freed the masses from the often arduous task of thinking for themselves, taking responsibility, and tackling problems. It was always easier to let someone else do all those chores and simply follow his directives. This type of mentality was ideal for Muslims who did not want to think for themselves.

Authoritarian paternalistic culture ruled the Arabs for as far back as historical records show. Arabs were always headed by an autocratic man. At times, there were councils, all male and usually advisory in function with no or little executive power. The headman embodied in himself all authority: the legislative, the judiciary, and the executive.

The system was a top-down hierarchy, where all directives and decisions were dictated from the top, and all people were to serve the top and at the pleasure of the top.

A father in the family and a father figure of some kind in the larger group always ruled. The man on top, a father or a father figure, was adhered to as the authority, followed, and obeyed.

Islam is custom-made and perfectly suited for people who are accustomed to being treated like children. Being a Muslim is a bargain of sorts. The believer continues to remain in a child mentally while aging. His part of the bargain is the total surrender to Islam. In return, Islam promises to supply him surefire answers as well as a perfect roadmap for this life and guaranteed bliss in the afterlife.

In other words, the Muslim's mind is imprinted with authoritarianism, which starts with the supreme authority, Allah, through his one and only prophet, Muhammad; his caliphs or imams; and the high-ranking religious divines all the way down to the village clergy. This authoritarian mentality encompasses all aspects of life for the Muslim  the king and his dominion as the viceroy of God, the emir and his despotic ways, the khan and his unchallenged rule over the tribe, the village headsman and his extensive power, and finally the father and his iron grip at home over the women and children. All these authority figures are male.

The authoritarian type poses numerous problems and presents many ramifications  ramifications much too important and complex to be comprehensively treated here. For now, it is important to understand that a person with the authoritarian personality is an extremist. He can be docility itself under certain circumstances and a maniacal, murdering brute under others. He is the type who would just as happily kill or die, when he is directed to do so. He would, for instance, gladly strap on an explosive vest, in obedience to a superior's order, and detonate it in a crowd of innocent civilians without the slightest hesitation.

From birth onward, a Muslim's brain is packed with the notion that everything in life is predicated on the will of Allah. Allah is in charge of all things at all times. Allah is very much a hands-on God. He does the thinking, he does the ordaining, and he decides the outcome for everything large and small. And since Allah is the all-knowing as well as the all-everything, the duty of the faithful is unquestioned obedience in all matters, irrespective of any and all contradictory evidence.

All disproving and contradictory evidence about the Islamic precepts is labeled as deceptive machinations of the accursed Satan. Hence, it is the sacred duty of the believer to put his Islamic blinders on and submit wholeheartedly and unhesitatingly to what is preached to him. It is within this deeply engrained mindset of the Muslim that he rarely says anything or commits to anything without the preamble of enshallah  if it is the will of Allah. In a way, this is a great out for the Muslim. If he wants to do it and does it, Allah willed it. If he doesn't want to do it and doesn't do it, Allah didn't see it fit.

It is this type of mentality that is, in large part, responsible for Muslim's fatalistic pathological system  the Islamic powers that be want to protect their valued stranglehold on the masses by keeping them in the darkness of ignorance and preventing them from being exposed to the light of truth.

Why is it that the Muslims are hell-bent on passing laws and resolutions of the sort they are pushing?

Because Islam is loaded with faulty and bizarre beliefs as well as many primitive, discriminatory, and shameful practices. So Muslims need to build a steel fence around their corral of absurdity to protect it from crumbling under the assaults of truth. They have much to hide and fear exposure the most.

Why is it that these followers of Allah don't mention any other religion besides Islam for the privilege they are seeking?

Because to Muslims, Islam is the super-religion and final religion of Allah. Judaism and Christianity are the only other two religions that are granted a grudging minimal recognition by Islam. All other religions and those without religion are blasphemy and blasphemous.

In short: No belief system or set of ideas, be they religious, scientific, philosophical, political, or otherwise, should be protected from open, honest criticism. It is up to the individual consumer to decide for himself, to the best of his ability and the compelling nature of the information, the value and veracity of any offering in a marketplace of free ideas.This Memorial Day, we had a pungent reminder of what we have and why we must cherish our freedom of speech and press, guaranteed by our First Amendment, as our cousins in Britain experienced its loss. On Friday, May 25, human rights activist Tommy Robinson was arrested.

Robinson has been bringing attention to the cover-up of one of the worst scandals in British history: the organized seduction, addicting, rape, and trafficking of young English girls by so-called "grooming" gangs, primarily Muslim. The abuse was not confined to prostituting these children (under age 16); they included instances of horrific physical abuse as well. In some cases these girls were doused with gasoline while their tormentors danced around them with cigarette-lighters, threatening to immolate them; in others, a girl's tongue would be nailed to a table.

These girls have been devastated. When fathers or brothers attempted to rescue them, the police arrested the family member instead, calling the abuse "consensual." This is what Robinson has been revealing: institutionalized child abuse in his own country on a massive scale, with the cooperation of government. A working-class man, Robinson's accent belies the seriousness and propriety of his position. He opposes sharia, he stands up for returning British soldiers and for free speech, and he abhors abuse of women and children. He doesn't quote philosophers, but he speaks from the heart and from a considerable intellect. This has made interviews with him "off-limits," and last March, three journalists (Canadian Lauren Souther, Austrian Martin Sellner, and American Brittany Pettibone) were deported under "terrorist" laws. You can see Pettibone's interview, done in Vienna, here.

He has brought public awareness, and finally these people are being taken to court to answer charges. A trial was taking place in Leeds, and Friday the jury had delivered a verdict. This was a major news story, and Robinson was livestreaming, standing in front of the courthouse. With Robinson and crew of three, present on a mostly deserted street, as if on cue, seven police officers descended, a police van pulled up, and Robinson was hustled off, without warrant, without cause. When he objected and asked why, the answer given was "breach of the peace."

This was absurd on its face  there was no audience, and no disturbance occurred. It looked like a local six o'clock news report. As he was pushed into the van, he asked his cameraman to get his solicitor.

With breathtaking speed  about four hours  Robinson was whisked from the street to a prison cell. This meant that everything had been prearranged. There was no due process such as was on display in the courtroom in Leeds for the people accused of torturing young girls and trafficking them. When Robinson's lawyer called to find out where he was being held, she was told by authorities he was being freed. She would not be needed. A follow-up call confirmed this.

Meanwhile, without counsel present, a public defender assigned, a Potemkin process was "observed," and Robinson disappeared. It was hours before it was leaked where he was.

This is seen as a death sentence for Robinson. He will be among convicted terrorists with a bounty on his head  he exposed rape gangs, after all. The judge imposed a news blackout on everything surrounding the case, so even outlets which had reported it were forced to take down the story. Only outside England was it reported. On Wednesday, May 30, after five days of official silence, the gag order was lifted. Has anyone, by the way, heard the rape gang verdict?

We take our rights for granted in America. These rights, we believe, are God-given and protected by our Constitution. If they were given by God, human blood was spilled and human lives spent to secure them. We honored these lives last weekend with flags, speeches, graveside visits, and family picnics.

But are we honoring them in everyday practice? This is the question today. Our freedom to speak is under assault. "Political correctness" is eating out its substance. College students, according to polls, believe we should have no freedom to say anything considered "hurtful" to certain classes of people. While there is no harm in insulting Christians, pro-life advocates, Jews, white males, conservatives, or gun-owners, it is forbidden to use the "wrong" personal pronoun for someone whose sexual orientation is "fluid" or to criticize Black Lives Matter, sharia, Islam, illegal aliens, or welfare abuse. It is dangerous now to engage in casual conversation, for anything you say might end your career or otherwise cost you.

News and social media are in on this  our news reporting has been slanted for decades. PayPal is deciding who can be funded through its network on the basis of what a member has said. People demand that Twitter terminate people's accounts based on what they said. Facebook silences accounts, and its CEO colludes with Angela Merkel to stop criticism of her and her government. YouTube takes down videos that don't fit its idea of "acceptable" speech. Professors who express the "wrong" opinions lose their jobs and their careers, while others who make outrageous statements are secure because they hold the "right" opinions. Worse, city councils are passing "hate speech" resolutions.

This needs to stop. We must tolerate everyone's opinion but never abuse of this freedom.

Without free speech, we will have no other freedom. The right to communicate news and opinion, to tell stories, is essential to our liberty. Free speech is absolute. There are no degrees of free speech, no "acceptable" free speech. The court of public opinion, logic, the marketplace of ideas, will sort this out. Opinions we find "unacceptable" should still be heard. We can decide to accept them or not. Without an unfettered press, we cannot make objective decisions, which is the essence of self-government. Maybe free speech is not important to the people of China, Cuba, North Korea, or Afghanistan, but it is vital to people who vote in meaningful elections. All opinions should be heard in the public square. When we see how Britain, abuses its own citizens' expression of thought, we see how close we might be to the same darkness.

Will we decline to attend a rally, write a letter to the editor, voice an opinion for fear of the knock on the door in the middle of the night? Robinson has experienced this many times  jackboots, machine guns, threats to family by police supported with his taxes. He is exposed to bloodthirsty terrorists doing 40-year sentences with nothing to fear from carrying out a fatwah against an unarmed man who has called them out in public.

We could eventually find ourselves in Tommy Robinson's situation if trends in thinking continue, especially among our youth, who have never learned about our rights and why they are necessary to our freedom. Every time we shut down someone's YouTube channel or censor their letters, or fire a professor or terminate someone's social media accounts we come that much closer to the darkness. Most of us oppose certain ideas, but we ought never to silence them. Confront them, debate them, call them out, expose a lie, but do not silence opinion, no matter how distasteful or how we may object to it.

It is often said that the speech that needs First Amendment protection is that which we find "unacceptable." But as more and more speech is being labeled "unacceptable," the more reason there is to ensure its protection. Free speech is the backbone of any free society or nation. No "hurt feelings" or ire at someone's comment or opinion is grounds for destroying that vital freedom.

There are two directions we may take. One is littered with the sometimes offensive or inconvenient opinions with which we disagree. The other put a man in prison for expressing one. America must never take the latter.How does a hellhole with no money like Venezuela stay afloat? Obviously, because of the cocaine trade.

And that's been going around for years, given that dozens of top Venezuelan rulers have been sanctioned or put on Treasury Department watchlists. The very rulers at the heart of Venezuela's socialist hellhole, so admired by Bernie Sanders and Sean Penn, are nothing but Pablo-Escobar-style drug dealers. Imagine how repulsive it is: All of the legal businesses have been put out of business by socialist diktats, while all of the illegal businesses, such as drug dealing, have flourished - and the money floats only upward to the party elite, keeping their lives lives of vulgar luxury, while the rest of the country starves.

Who created this situation? Venezuela's communist master, Cuba. That's the verdict of a long investigative report, from the Daily Beast, titled "How Cuba Helped Make Venezuela A Mafia State," by respected reporter Christopher Dickey.

Here's his lead-in tease:

The Castros claimed Cuba was never into drug smuggling, then they said it quit. But their own operations were nothing compared to the ones they helped facilitate in Venezuela.

Dickey makes a persuasive case for the Castros's history of drug dealing, starting with Cuba's pilot project, the making of Colombia into a narcostate, which it nearly became until the advent of President Alvaro Uribe, who was elected in 2002. Colombia had a history of outlaws, as Mark Bowden wrote in his superb history of the Colombia narcowars, but never was a cocaine capital until Castro came along and enabled Escobar, who was a sort of pioneer in drug dealing, creating, with Castro's help, the first cartel, and nearly taking over the country. Back in the 1980s, Pablo Escobar got his start and became a drug-lord pioneer based on his cooperation with Cuban authorities and Miami Cuban bad guys, enabling him to nearly take over the Colombian state, all with a little help from his Castroite friends.

He writes:

In the years that followed the Ochoa trial, Cuba offered to cooperate with the United States fighting against drug traffickers. The Clinton administration shelved proposed indictments of the regime, and as relations gradually warmed, the U.S. would begin to liaise with Cuban authorities in the war on drugs. But at the same time the Cuban intelligence services were reaching out in other directions, to networks that would become the worlds biggest suppliers of cocaine: the narco-guerrillas of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and Venezuelas security forces. Cuban counterintelligence is said to have tutored the Venezuelan spies, domestic and foreign, and helped to organize them to root out opposition to the regime of Hugo Chavez. Indeed, the Cubans taught them to do whatever might be necessary to survive. Over time, many of Chavezs officers would become known as the Cartel de los Soles, the Cartel of the Suns: cartel because of their involvement with the drug trade on a scale that nobody in 1989 could have imagined; the suns for the insignias on the epaulets of Venezuelas generals.

Castro himself had always considered Colombia a prize, founding the ELN narcoguerrilla group in 1964 for one, which later dealt drugs, and aligning with the Communist Party of Colombia, whose arch-terrorist wing, FARC, was always his faithful ally and had office space for years in Havana. Castro even had a role in starting the riots of 1948, which led to immese bloodshed in the country and culminated in the FARC wars, also launched in 1964. Colombia's history with Castro has always been a history of getting the country trapped into drugs, the better to strike out at the yanqui imperialistas up north.

Uribe crushed the cartels, along with their Marxist narcoterrorist overlords, and every two-bit drug dealer his men could find. Uribe hated drugs so much he didn't even want casual marijuana use legal. He and his vice president Francisco Santos (who was kidnapped and tied to a bed for months in 1990 by Escobar's monsters in a superb account described by Gabriel Garcia Marquez), had an absolute "thing" against drugs. I've heard Santos speak about it in person at UCLA, and can only say his sentiment about it is beyond intense.

Uribe's crushing of these communist brutes led Cuba to make Venezuela the new narcostate it needed to serve its national interests of Getting Gringo. Cuba taught Venezuela's Marxist galoots the ropes of drug dealing, got them hooked up with the master drug dealers of FARC, and got money streams flowing into the coffers of the Chavista elite, making them comfortable as they starved their country into communist submission.

Meanwhile, things turned up roses for the Castros as Ben Rhodes, leading President Obama by the nose, led the rapprochement efforts with Cuba in 2015, rewarding the country with diplomatic relations, even after a repulsive, anti-American, utterly death-strewn history like this, creating two narcostates. Leftists still romanticize communist Cuba, and support the Ben Rhodes effort to coddle these filthy dictators. Dickey's account exposes how hollow that strategy was, and how morally bankrupt or ignorant these U.S. players have been.

Read Dickey's excellent account of the whole revolting history of how Cuba made Venezuela its second narcostate here.President Trump's legal team put out a 20-page memo to Special Counsel Robert Mueller, in what the New York Times reported was a last-ditch effort to head off an unprecedented subpoena. The Times reports:

WASHINGTON  President Trumps lawyers have for months quietly waged a campaign to keep the special counsel from trying to force him to answer questions in the investigation into whether he obstructed justice, asserting that he cannot be compelled to testify and arguing in a confidential letter that he could not possibly have committed obstruction because he has unfettered authority over all federal investigations. In a brash assertion of presidential power, the 20-page letter  sent to the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III, and obtained by The New York Times  contends that the president cannot illegally obstruct any aspect of the investigation into Russias election meddling because the Constitution empowers him to, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon. [Read the Trump lawyers confidential memo to Mr. Mueller here.] Mr. Trumps lawyers fear that if he answers questions, either voluntarily or in front of a grand jury, he risks exposing himself to accusations of lying to investigators, a potential crime or impeachable offense.

The Times dryly notes that the legal approach is, well, 'novel' while the rest of the left is yelling about the dawn of "tyranny." Get a load of the hysteria at Vox, for example.

In reality, what the Trump team is saying makes perfect sense. A president can get rid of a Special Counsel any time he likes, because it's a power well within his executive powers. So, the fact that the Special Counsel - who has no evidence anyone in the Trump campaign colluded with the Russians to steal the election from Hillary Clinton - is still out to Get Trump pretty well amounts to a matter of setting a legal trap for him and charging him with perjury in some way, no matter what Trump tells them.

That's what's brought on this legal reasoning, cited by Business Insider here:

According to legal experts, by far the most striking argument in the memo was one which said Trump's actions, "by virtue of his position as the chief law enforcement officer, could neither constitutionally nor legally constitute obstruction because that would amount to him obstructing himself, and that he could, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon if he so desired."

The Times says he's doing this because he fears a legal trap, a pretext for charging Trump with lying to investigators, which presumably will be cause to call in the sheriff and handcuff him on out of the White House.

It makes sense that they are concerned about this scenario, which in fact would be the real negation of democracy and the will of the voters. Hauling off the president on a stupid legal trap set for him obliterates the will of the voters and amounts to the triumph of the Deep State with all its legal trickery. And don't think it's not Mueller's preferred tactic. He's done it already with Michael Flynn and George Papadoupoulos as well as some bit players (there probably is some merit to the Manafort case but it doesn't have anything to do with the original collusion charge), and in the absence of a big 'get' is busy charging them with lying to investigators, which is what justifies his witch hunt and makes people think that something is there. He can't get them on substance, so he's getting them on legal traps. And, the Times notes that Trump's team sees a new legal trap with this subpoena threat. Rest assured, if Trump testifies before Mueller, he too will be charged with lying to investigators - no matter what he tells them.

Nevertheless, the way the argument is framed looks funny. To say a president can't obstruct justice is not the point, given the protection the Obama administration gave to the illegal activities at the EPA, the IRS, the FBI, and the State Department, to take but a few examples. Obama most certainly obstructed the course of justice at those agencies. Yet it's utterly true that President Trump can shut down this Special Counsel clown show any time he wants.

The memo was written in January, and obviously, someone close to it - Mueller? - leaked it to the Times.

Instead of writing such memos, brimming with huffing and puffing about presidential powers and legalese about obstruction of justice, why not just give Mueller a real cause to either do his business or get off the pot? Just shut the whole Mueller farce down and let the Democrats holler.So did Martha Stewart refuse President Trump's pardon of her, on a maliciously prosecuted insider stock trading case, based on her progressive views? Nope, not to anyone's knowledge.

But a satirical news site put that out there and sure enough, out on Twitter and elsewhere, much of the left bit into the fake news and passed it around. Obviously, the satirists knew the left would believe it.

According to Business to Community:

Martha Stewart saying that she would refuse to accept a pardon if issued by President Donald Trump came from a satirical tweet. There is no truth to information being shared from a tweet circulating social media that the founder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia had made the decision to decline any pardon made by Trump. In 2004, Stewart was convicted of charges related to the ImClone stock trading case. Where did this satirical information originate? The Twitter account BNW Breaking News, posted a link on May 31, 2018, to a news story published by The Hill reporting that Trump is considering issuing a pardon for Stewart with regards to that 2004 conviction of making false statements to federal investigators, conspiracy, and obstruction. BNW Breaking News just added a little twist of their own (seen below) to an actual story.

BREAKING NEWS: Martha Stewart says she will not accept pardon from Trump. Although my prosecution was over-zealous, I can't be party to what this country is becoming. This pardon will ruin my reputation, she added. #AlternativeFacts, #MarthaStewart, Dinesh D'Souza, #MAGA #Resist https://t.co/SrWGogUy2F  BNW BREAKING NEWS (@BraveNewWorldd) May 31, 2018

What this shows is that the Trump derangement syndrome has not ended on the leftside. Since leftists hate Trump so much, they can't even see a good gesture from Trump for what it is, a good gesture, a correction of a commonly noticed wrong, in the selective prosecution of Stewart for what should have been at most a minor infraction had she been anyone else, by an ambitious prosecutor. Stewart did jailtime, very stoically, and got on with her life, refusing to allow the bad experience to grind her down or make her bitter, as it did, say, Hillary Clinton. Stewart was aided by the fact that she had a big bank of goodwill from her readers, who love the work she does through her popular homemaking magazine, and who welcomed her back with open arms.

What Trump did, in fact, was a bipartisan thing, given that Stewart is a friend of the Clintons and holds Democratic views, something she never allows to pollute into her magazine. For most people, this is fine, and the selective prosecution she got was bad stuff. Trump fixed it, Stewart has accepted it (a thank you would be nice, but let's not get ahead of ourselves) and now she gets her life back as it was. Above all, Trump's pardon was based on a sense of justice, not her being a member of the right party, as Obama would have required. Can you imagine Obama pardoning a Republican? Never would have happened, and never did happen. Republicans, such as Dinesh D'Souza, were special targets of Obama's prosecutorial apparat, and to correct that injustice, Trump to his credit pardoned D'Souza, too. Obama, by contrast, pardoned mainly drug dealers and petty criminals, along with a few favorites. Trump's pardon power extends to actual cases of injustice in the judicial system, and sends a message to selective prosecutors ambitious for headlines that their efforts may be junked.

Can the left stop to praise Trump for that one, augmented by the fact that it was one of their own who got a pardon? Not in the least. They'd rather buy the fake news.Californians who work for the state government will be prevented from traveling to Oklahoma as of June 22. Oklahoma has apparently violated a California law which prohibits state-sponsored travel to states with laws that allow discrimination based on sexual or gender orientation.

Oklahoma recently passed a law forbidding state adoption agencies from placing children with same sex couples.

San Francisco Chronicle:

Our taxpayer dollars do not fund bigotry, Becerra said. No exceptions. In Oklahoma City, an official with the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau said she is unaware of any cancellations in visitor bookings because of the dispute, but that it could be too soon to tell. Ive not seen an effect, said Sandy Price, vice president of tourism sales. Id hate for there to be a downturn because of this. Cynthia Reid, vice president of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, said her chamber and its members had fought against the adoption law. We opposed the legislation, as we oppose all discriminatory legislation, she said. One of the reasons we opposed it is for this reason (the California ban) right here. The California ban could have a marginal impact on any (Oklahoma) conference involving California state employees, she said, adding that the chamber hasnt done a full assessment. Last month, Oklahomas governor signed the fiercely debated bill, opposed by gay rights groups and many businesses, that also allows private agencies to refuse to place LGBT foster children in homes. Every child deserves a loving, supportive family, and its neither pro-child, nor pro-family, for Oklahoma to deny them one, said Rick Zbur, the executive director of Equality California, a gay civil rights organization based in Los Angeles. California taxpayers wont subsidize Oklahomas  or any states  discriminatory policies.

I'm sure there are plenty of California laws that Oklahomans object to, not least of which are sanctuary laws that spit in the face of the rest of the country when it comes to allowing illegal aliens to enter with impunity. California cannot guarantee that all those illegals will remain in California. No doubt some will end up in Oklahoma, placing a burden on state residents who did not vote for sanctuary policies. California cannot invoke federalism in one instance and not in another.

If "bigotry" is the standard by which a state is judged, California should clean up its own house. There are other kinds of bigotry besides idiotic notions about race, ethnic origin, or sexual orientation. If the definition of bigotry is a "stubborn and complete intolerance of any creed, belief, or opinion that differs from one's own" then California should be kicked out of the union. There is no state more intolerable of minority political beliefs. There is no state more intimidating to the free flow of ideas. There is no state more hostile to free speech and freedom of thought.

Eventually, California will get around to banning travel to most states. They will define bigotry more and more broadly until only the most rigidly politically correct states will be left. If that happens, they may as well fall into the sea as they will have separated themselves from the majority of Americans who disagree with them.With Donald Trump's approval rating going up and the economy stronger than it has been in 2 decades, Senate Republicans believe their prospects for holding on to their slim, one vote majority to be improving by the day.

Democrats appear perfectly content to shoot themselves in the foot with regularity as voters tire of their intensely exaggerated complaints about the president and see the opposition in full blow obstructionist mode.

But with 5 months still to go before election day, the GOP well knows that anything can happen.

New York Times:

Not everyone in the G.O.P. is as bullish, with worries that the presidents capacity for political self-sabotage, the Democrats fund-raising advantage and the anti-Trump intensity propelling the left will make it difficult to do much more than break even and protect its one-seat Senate majority. But that Republicans are even discussing the prospect of gaining Senate seats, in the first midterm campaign of a president whose approval rating has never reached 50 percent, illustrates the wildly divergent electoral landscapes for the House and the Senate. While the fight for control of the House is playing out mainly in the affluent and highly educated suburban districts that have been hotbeds of anti-Trump fervor, many of them on the coasts, the Senate campaign is taking place on much more Trump-friendly terrain. Six of the most competitive Senate races are in states he carried by double digits: Indiana, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Tennessee and West Virginia. (Democrats hold all of those seats except Tennessees.) A major question looming over the 2018 Senate contest is whether so-called wave election years  in which one party makes significant gains in both chambers of Congress, as happened in 1994 and 2006  can still exist as the country grows more polarized and politics more shaped by hardening party preferences. With ticket-splitting fading, especially in federal races, voters are increasingly turning to lawmakers who reflect the presidential leanings of their state. That could spell trouble for Democrats representing largely conservative electorates and states where surveys show that, unlike in much of the country, the president is viewed more favorably than unfavorably.

Are voters getting used to Donald Trump? It may be that Trump's unique presidential style - jarring in its vulgarity and crudeness - is being accepted by voters as the way things are and complaining about it is useless. The constant harping from Democrats about Russian "collusion" - without presenting any evidence whatsoever that the charges have merit - is also wearing thin on the voter.

In short, a combination of improving presidential performance numbers and the Democrat's anti-Trump hysteria might allow the GOP to pick up one or two seats in the Senate. It is also improving prospects that Republican can maintain their control in the House, although the number of open seats due to retirement is working against Republicans in many key swing districts.

The electoral landscape may flip again by election day, what with all the variables and Trump's mercurial personality. But Republicans should be gratified that what they thought would be a summer of woe may turn into summer of hope.Joining a region that has swung right in the wake of the horrors of socialist Venezuela, Colombia is swinging hard right, poised to elect a hard-core conservative populist president aligned with former President Alvaro Uribe in its runoff on June 17.

Even Ian Bremmer, the center-left analyst and foreign policy establishment maven sees the writing on the wall, writing a pretty persuasive piece about why that looks inevitable. Besides that, polls show the split is 55-35 in favor of the conservative Ivan Duque. Note Bremmer's lip-curdling opener in the full NeverTrump spirit:

Another election, another polarized outcome. Last weekends first-round results in Colombias presidential election signal just how bad things have gotten there. The country must now choose between a right-wing Senator in Ivan Duque and a far-left former Bogota mayor in Gustavo Petro. The smart money is on Duque. Heres why:

How bad? How about how good?

Bremmer notes that the establishment elites from the center-right party of President Juan Manuel Santos is scandal-tarnished, much as Hillary Clinton was, the electorate in general is conservative, which is true of Colombians, the economy is bad - and the two big ones, which he ranks 3 and 5:

Five is Venezuela, the nightmare of socialism which is bringing 38,000 refugees, by some reports, pouring over Colombia's border each day. The country has accepted more than a million Venezuelan refugees and all of them have a story to tell, firsthand, about what socialism is like. Imagine a U.S. where one in 45 residents or so could tell the story of communism, quite a few of them in the cities where their voices would be heard.

The second reason, Bremmer's number 3, is even more noteworthy:

The Santos government's failure to pay any attention to the views of the people, who in their majority did not want a Castro-brokered "peace agreement" with FARC's Marxist narcoterrorists. Colombia, remember, held a closely watched referendum back in October 2016, shortly before President Trump was elected and a bit after Brexit, and its voters stunned the world by rejecting the much-vaunted peace proposal. That roughly parallaled Brexit, as well as the Trump election of 2016, and for the same reason: People felt they were being trampled over by socialists who Knew Better and their own voices were being silenced. They told the government they didn't want a peace agreement with terrorists, much as the U.S. voters didn't want Obamacare, and then they came out in their majority at electiontime and showed it. It was the same dynamics that elected President Trump.

The Nobel committee was so stunned by this result it went and gave its peace prize to President Juan Manuel Santos anyway as a sort of consolation prize and to encourage him to keep going. And in turn, Santos took the prize, and bulled ahead with his plan, putting it through via Congress, with just a few token changes to slop the masses, pretty well ignoring the voters.

That meant FARC's depraved, psychopathic terrorists basically got off scot-free for the war they conducted since 1964, killing 200,000. Terrorist kidnappers and drug dealers, employers of child soldiers, torture-murderers, including the leadership of this monstrous communist outfit are getting away with it, and even being rewarded. They get free propaganda press, free entry to jobs, free congressional seats, some astonishing concessions.

Bremmer notes that the election has split on polarity lines, with the challenger, a horrible leftist guerrilla named Gustavo Petro who adored Hugo Chavez, on the other side of the ballot. He roughly plays the role of Bernie Sanders.

Now, the real repudiation is coming, and the polls show it will be by a big margin.When Ben Rhodes, President Obamas chief foreign policy propagandist, told the New York Times that todays reporters literally know nothing, he was more correct than he realized. USA Today, in an unintentionally hilarious graphic intended to illustrate how marijuana legalization in Colorado has led to illegal shipments of the weed to other states, confirmed that not merely exotic foreign lands, but our native country as well now is terra incognita to the mainstream media:

Twitchy, as usual, has collected some hilarious tweets in response. One of the first and best came from Neal Boortz:

Can anyone name that grey state right below Colorado in this map? @USATODAY pic.twitter.com/Rqe2vMCU5W  Neal Boortz (@Talkmaster) June 2, 2018

But the great Iowahawk went on an extended Twitter riff, with many hilarious takes. See Twitchy for a complete look, but here are two of my favorites:

OMG Colorado ships so much weed out of Wyoming it doesn't have any left pic.twitter.com/YvLUI9pfgg  David Burge (@iowahawkblog) June 2, 2018

LOL look at Colorado trying to pretend it's not square pic.twitter.com/pwCmUwB6Pq  David Burge (@iowahawkblog) June 2, 2018

In fairness, those rectangular states in the Western United States do get confusing if your universe mostly consists of Washington, DC and New York City.

One thing is certain: call USA Today elite media at your peril.Ben Thompson, the founder of well-known tech newsletter Stratechery, deemed Facebooks purchase of Instagram the greatest regulatory failure of the last ten years. While speaking at the latest iteration of Recodes Code conference held earlier this week, the industry veteran labeled the early 2012 tie-up valued at $1 billion as a traditional horizontal merger that allowed the worlds largest social media network on the planet to take out a direct competitor and expand its reach in an unfair manner. Mr. Thompson described Facebook as an aggregator that generally doesnt allow third parties to monetize their content using its technologies, having pointed to that description as the main reason why Facebook should have never been allowed to purchase Instagram.

A platform is when the economic value of everybody that uses it exceeds the value of the company that creates it, said Mr. Thompson, quoting Microsoft founder Bill Gates while elaborating on his stance. While both Google and Facebook describe their core offerings as platforms, they are generating much higher value for themselves relative to how much their users are able to create, according to the media analyst. The acquisition of Instagram further exacerbated that problem, the industry veteran said. At the time, Instagrams purchase was Facebooks largest to date, having later been surpassed by the takeover of Oculus valued at $2 billion in early 2014 and the $19 billion buyout of WhatsApp which took place around the same time.

Mr. Thompson insists theres no reason for Facebook to do anything for publishers other than demonstrating goodwill, suggesting the Menlo Park, California-based company shouldnt be allowed to conduct any other major acquisitions in the social media space. Some lawmakers in the European Union are already viewing Facebook as a monopoly, having said as much during their Q&A session with the firms co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg. While the European Parliament already signaled it may attempt breaking up Facebook going forward, its presently unclear how the legislative body is planning to go about doing so. Mr. Zuckerberg previously insisted the company is in a highly competitive industry, claiming the average mobile user relies on eight communications apps on a daily basis, though around half of that group is likely owned by Facebook itself.Qualcomm, Ford, and Panasonic have formed an alliance to deploy Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technologies for the first time in Colorado this summer as part of efforts to ensure that the connected vehicle system is safe to use prior to a wider rollout. The obvious aim of C-V2X is to help save lives since the vehicles equipped with this system will be able to sense and recognize pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles that are connected. Additionally, another application is to help self-driving vehicles optimize fuel efficiency and their overall operation.

The new trial deployment will take place in designated roadways throughout Panasonics CityNOW headquarters in Denver before the system will be rolled out in select locations along the I-70 Mountain Corridor area later this year. The tie-up builds upon Pansonics existing partnership with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). As part of the alliance, Panasonic has tapped the help of external companies such as Kapsch TrafficCom and Ficosa to assist in the deployment. Kapsch TrafficCom for its part will supply the roadside units to CDOTs V2X development program and Ficosa will provide the C-V2X onboard units. CDOT will also incorporate C-V2X devices powered by Ficosas CarCom platform into its current fleet of Ford cars, enabling those vehicles to communicate with other vehicles and infrastructures. Panasonics connected vehicle data platform will then work to transmit C-V2X data to roadway operators, which in turn will send safety information directly to vehicles. Qualcomm also recently said future C-V2X vehicles will be built with 5G in mind, which means those vehicles will be able to gain enhanced functionality once robust 5G networks are established in the future.

The chip-making giant and the auto manufacturer jointly announced C-V2X at CES 2018 in January with the goal of enabling vehicles to communicate with other vehicles, smart infrastructure, and cellular devices without the use of a cellular network or a network subscription. The system is intended to use the underlying cellular technologies for device-to-device communication instead of using an existing cellular network, which brings to mind the same communication standards for the Internet of Things category. Already, C-V2X has been going through initial trials in San Diego, California, and Detroit, Michigan. Qualcomm is also set to demonstrate C-V2X at the Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS-A) World Meeting set to take place in Detroit beginning on June 4 until June 7.Reserve With Google, a Google Search feature allowing users to make reservations with businesses such as restaurants and gyms, has been enjoying immense growth since being introduced in March of 2017, Reuters reports. Numerous software companies which provide Google with business schedule data are claiming the service is ramping up customer acquisition numbers by a significant margin, stating that up to 75-percent of all bookings made through Reserve With Google represent new and potentially long-term customers. The positive performance of the platform is believed to be a result of its convenience as the functionality allows for the creation of valid reservations with a broad range of businesses without phone calls or anything other than an Internet browser being involved.

Reserve With Google and a number of other platforms such as the companys shopping comparison service which landed it in hot water with European antitrust authorities represent the next step in the tech giants Internet search strategy; whereas the initial version of Google Search was an engine delivering lists of websites, the Mountain View, California-based firm has been looking to transform its digital portfolio and a massive set of tools used for a wide variety of online actions for over half a decade now. Whereas the original system required users to research websites Google Search delivered, the company wants its revamped version to do that research for them, though such ambitions continue to raise competition concerns.

Veteran antitrust attorney Gary Reback, Yelp co-founder Jeremy Stoppelman, and a number of other high-profile individuals from the technology industry accused Google of monopolistic behavior on prime-time TV late last month, with EUs competition regulators now looking into various aspects of the companys business after already handing it a historic $2.7 billion fine over its shopping comparison service last year. The tech juggernaut repeatedly insisted all of its digital tools such as Reserve with Google are meant to ennoble the overall experience of Search, adding that its engine hasnt been designed to eliminate any kind of competition from the market.COP26 may be a cop-out in the making COP26 is just about a month away. Delayed for a year by the Covid-19 pandemic, the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference has built up even more expectations and momentum during the intervening monthsSuccess! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.Syrian President Bashar al-Assad plans to make a state visit to Pyongyang, reports Reuters, citing a Sunday report by the North Korea's state news agency. The report didn't offer a timeline when he will do so.

Why it matters: It would be the first time North Korean leader Kim Jong-un would host a head of state since he assumed power in 2011, and comes amid several other meetings with world leaders.

The backdrop: Kim has now met with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on a few different occasions, and secretly met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in March. And his widely anticipated summit with President Trump in Singapore on June 12 is back on.

The Syrian government will as ever fully support all policies and measures of the DPRK leadership and invariably strengthen and develop the friendly ties with the DPRK.

 Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on May 30, according to North Koreas KCNA news agency

Flashback: In February, United Nations monitors accused North Korea of shipping supplies to Syria that could be used for chemical weapons production.Trend:

Distortion of the remarks made by Russian Foreign Ministry representative is incomprehensible, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hikmet Hajiyev told Trend.

His comments came in response to the changes in the transcript of the speech by Deputy Director of the Information and Press Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry Artem Kozhin.

"As a press secretary of the foreign policy department, I can not understand the reason for the change in the semantic-linguistic way of the professional and diplomatic response of my Russian colleague, which corresponds to the real essence of the negotiation process for the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. This is unimaginable and incomprehensible. The video presented by Trend agency clearly shows that the statement was made in the context of the Armenian prime ministers remarks about participation of the separatist regime as a side in the negotiations and this step of the Armenian leadership is called nonconstructive. And in the transcript of the press conference posted on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, it is written that this is the answer to the question of Trends reporter," he said.

Hajiyev added that the assertions of the new government of Armenia about participation in the negotiation process of the separatist regime created in the Azerbaijani territories occupied by Armenia are absolutely unfounded, ridiculous and nonconstructive.

"Armenia is responsible as a state that has occupied the territory of Azerbaijan by force and preserves its military presence in the occupied territories," Hajiyev said.

Hajiyev noted that the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group themselves stated about the groundlessness of this position of Armenia at a meeting with Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov on May 15 in Paris.

"As can be seen, the new leadership of Armenia, instead of working towards resolving the conflict on the basis of the accepted existing format, with such unreasonable statements tries to disrupt or paralyze the negotiation process," he stressed.

It should be noted that at a press conference on June 1, Deputy Director of the Information and Press Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry Artem Kozhin, responding to a question of Trend, said that the statements of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict are nonconstructive.

"In general, loud statements that do not fit onto the appropriate rails, in particular laid by the OSCE, are probably not constructive," he said.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.By Trend

Prime Ministers Dmitry Medvedev of Russia and Binali Yildirim of Turkey discussed by phone the construction of Akkuyu nuclear power plant and TurkStream natural gas pipeline, the Russian governments press service said on Saturday, TASS reported.

"In the conversation [they] focused on topical issues of the Russian-Turkish trade and economic relationship and promotion of major joint energy projects, in particular the construction in Turkey of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) and the TurkStream natural gas pipeline," says the press release.

Both prime ministers noted the importance of cooperation between profile ministries and agencies of Russia and Turkey with the aim to create the favorable conditions for boosting bilateral cooperation in a wide range of fields.

Apart from that, the Turkish prime minister congratulated Dmitry Medvedev on his appointment as Russias prime minister and offered greetings ahead of Russia Day, due to be marked on June 12.Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard has called on the Government to publish what he described as "secret papers that outline the doomsday consequences of a no deal exit from Europe".

Mr Hazzard said that inside sources indicated that the government papers warn that crashing out of the EU without a deal would result in severe food, fuel, and medicine shortages.

Read More

The British Government must allow full public scrutiny of these papers - it is totally unacceptable that they continue to drive us towards the cliff-edge knowing the cataclysmic effects of a no deal exit from Europe," the South Down MP said.

We already know from previous scenario planning exercises that the north of Ireland will be worse hit in any Brexit scenario; bearing in mind todays revelations it is absolutely imperative that the British Government also now publish legal texts on their plans to deal with Ireland.

As we approach the June EU Council meeting in a matter of weeks - the people of Ireland demand legal certainty; we have had enough flights of fancy from the British Government.

A Department for Exiting the European Union spokesperson told The Independent that such discussions had taken place, but denied that the doomsday scenario would occur.Rose McGowan has opened up about her struggles in Hollywood and admitted she was proud to have survived.

The actress, who was one of the first women to accuse disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein of rape, described the darker side of fame during a candid interview.

Speaking at the Hay Festival in Wales, the 44-year-old said she had survived through sheer will.

"I'm in a glass house and everybody can throw stones" - @RoseMcGowan on surviving Hollywood #HayFestival2018 pic.twitter.com/7CRCiaOS81  Hay Festival (@hayfestival) June 2, 2018

She said: After youre discovered and you become famous very quickly, I realised very early on oh god, what have I done?

Im in a glass house, Im in the tiniest town in the world and everybody can throw stones.

But then youre stuck. And then youre blacklisted, but youre still well-known. What job am I going to get? Where am I going to go?

Its a conundrum. Im here by sheer will and I shouldnt have been here. And for that Im proud.

McGowan, most well-known for her role as Tatum Riley in 1996 horror movie Scream, was among the first of around 100 women to accuse Weinstein of sexual harassment and assault.

Detailing the alleged incident in a memoir, she said Weinstein forced himself on her during what began as a business meeting at the Sundance Film Festival in 1997.

Her allegations helped cement the film producers downfall, and sparked the Me Too movement.

Urging the festival audience to keep on fighting for justice, she said: We have to fight as a society  to stop them stealing our creativity, stop making us conform, to stop telling us good little girls or good little boys stay in your corner.

No I will not. I will be free and I wish that for everybody.

She added: Im all for cinema. But Im all for it being better and I wish to God people werent rotten, a lot of them, because we would have a better world.

McGowan previously welcomed the news that Weinstein had been indicted on rape and criminal sex act charges in New York.

He denies all allegations of non-consensual sex.Former Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams has paid tribute to Irish-American businessman William 'Bill' Flynn who played a key part in the IRA ceasefire of 1994 that paved the way for the Northern Ireland peace process.

Mr Flynn died yesterday at his home in New York at the age of 92.

He was a multi-millionaire businessman credited with playing a role in getting the US visa for Mr Adams in 1994, in the face of stiff opposition from the British government.

He was chairman of the foreign policy think-tank that issued the invitation to Mr Adams to come to New York's Waldorf-Astoria hotel for a conference on the peace process..

He grew up in Queens, New York, but his father came from Loughinisland, in Co Down, and his mother from outside Castlebar, in Co Mayo. He had a hugely successful business career, becoming the chairman of the Mutual of America insurance company.

Mr Flynn was awarded an honorary Commander of the British Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth in 2009 in recognition of his exceptional contribution to the peace process. He played a key role as chairman of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy and by regularly flying to Ireland to meet key figures.

I learned with sadness of death of Bill Flynn, a giant of Irish America + key figure in US support for peace on the island of Ireland. He showed real leadership in mobilising Irish American support for peace. Very proud of his contribution. Our thoughts with his family + friends.  Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) June 3, 2018

Gerry Adams paid tribute to Mr Flynn and the role he played in bringing peace to Northern Ireland.

"He was one of Americas foremost business leaders, as well as a patron of great causes in support of humanitarian, civil liberties and health issues," the former Sinn Fein President said.

"I have known Bill Flynn for more than 25 years. We first met in Belfast after Bill had organised and funded a peace conference in Derry in 1992 called Beyond Hate. He met and was impressed by Martin McGuinness and later he travelled to Belfast where he and I met.

"In 1994 he arranged for the National Committee on American Foreign Policy to organise a conference on Ireland to which I was invited. I applied for a visa which was eventually agreed and I received a 48 hour restricted visa to New York. It was a key moment in the efforts for peace.

"Since then Bill has remained solidly behind the peace process. He travelled to Ireland many times, and consciously sought to reach out to unionists and loyalists and to engage them in the process of peace making and partnership government."

The Louth TD said that Mr Flynn was a long-time figure in relations between Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

"Bills importance can be measured in the frequency with which all of the governments  Irish, British and US  talk to him and seek to involve him in whatever the current initiative might be," Mr Adams said.

"I always make a point of trying to meet Bill every time I visit New York. His analysis of the political situation in the USA and in Ireland, were always insightful.

"He was a good American patriot and a decent human being," Mr Adams concluded.DUP leader Arlene Foster has said that she has been contacted by nationalists and republicans who said that they will vote for the DUP because of their anti-abortion stance.

Mrs Foster told Sky News that they "believe that we're the only party that supports the unborn."

Read More

She revealed that she had also been contacted by a number of people in the Republic of Ireland following the decision to repeal the Eighth Amendment to the Irish Constitution.

The Republic of Ireland will now introduce abortion legislation in the coming months.

Sinn Fein have called for abortion legislation to be introduced in Northern Ireland, while Mrs Foster said that the referendum in the Republic would change nothing in Northern Ireland.

Speaking after the referendum Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said that women from Northern Ireland may be able to access abortion services in the Irish Republic.

"I have had many emails as you would expect, as the leader of the DUP over the weekend and since," Mrs Foster said.

"I have had emails from people in the Republic of Ireland feeling very disenfranchised and can't quite believe what has happened.

"I have had emails from nationalists and republicans in Northern Ireland not quite believing what is going on and saying, they will be voting for the DUP because they believe that we're the only party that supports the unborn."

Expand Close Crowds at Dublin Castle celebrating the Eighth Amendment being repealed / Facebook

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Whatsapp Crowds at Dublin Castle celebrating the Eighth Amendment being repealed

Mrs Foster said that a sizeable majority of people in the Republic feel left behind following the result of the referendum.

"There are many people who are shocked in the Republic of Ireland today. And whilst I completely acknowledge the result that happened last Saturday that doesn't take away from the fact that there's a substantial minority of people in the Republic of Ireland today who feel very disenfranchised. Who feel very alone. Who don't feel that anybody speaks for them anymore," she said.

"I think people need to be very much aware of that, because we've seen with the referendum recently, the referendum in the UK, around Brexit, of course, the referendum in Scotland, when you have these big constitutional questions and the people on the losing side - if you like - feel very much that they've lost something very significant.

"And I think that needs to be acknowledged."

The Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA said she had not been surprised that people were considering voting for the DUP over the abortion issue.

People vote for different reasons and I think thats very clear. For some people, this is the number one issue for them when it comes to casting their vote and I think people need to understand that in the wider UK," she said.

"It is such a big issue here in Northern Ireland. Obviously some people dont see it as such a big issue and vote for other reasons but I think it would be wrong not to acknowledge that there those in my own constituency and right across the whole of Northern Ireland who feel so very strongly about this issue that they will cast their vote on that basis.

The DUP leader said that it was up to the Assembly to decide the future of Northern Ireland's abortion legislation.

"Of course what happened last weekend was in relation to the constitution of the Republic of Ireland. It was about repealing the constitutional bar on abortion and the result was what the result was," Mrs Foster said.

"We dont have a constitutional bar on abortion. The issue should be one that is debated in the Assembly. Its one that rests with the devolved administration and thats where we should have the discussion."

Speaking on Twitter following Mrs Foster's comments North Antrim DUP MP Ian Paisley said he had been contacted by a local priest who supports his party's stance.

"I have a letter from a local priest in my constituency thanking the DUP for its stance on these issues and assuring me that he is urging his parishioners to vote DUP because of the stance we take on social matters," he wrote.

In response to Mrs Fosters claims a Sinn Fein spokesperson said that abortion was not a "unionist versus nationalist issue".

"It affects women from all communities," the spokesperson said.

"It is about coming at the issue with compassion and respect, trusting woman and their doctors. While there are some with strongly held views, it is not credible to suggest that it will make republicans become unionist.

"Just as it would not be credible to suggest that unionists who support and trust women on this issue will become republicans. It is simply a wrong that needs put right."The Met Office have extended the yellow weather warning for Northern Ireland to Monday and warned that thunderstorms may be on the way.

A yellow weather warning had been issued for Friday and Saturday with the north of the country taking the brunt of the weather with a Magherafelt shopping centre being completely flooded.

The warning will be in place between 1pm and 8pm.

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"There is a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or strong winds," a Met Office spokesperson said.

"Spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

"Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services.

"There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost."BBC radio and television host Stephen Nolan has revealed how he was left shaken after coming face to face with a stalker.

Mr Nolan revealed the incident on his BBC Radio 5 live show on Friday whilst discussing the recent stalking case involving Northern Irish television presenter Christine Lampard.

He described it as an "extraordinary situation" and said the whole affair had a real impact on him.

Mr Nolan said about three years ago he started getting abusive phone messages on a daily basis to his office from a woman who called herself "Marie".

He said that at the beginning he took the messages in a light-hearted manner but then things took a serious turn.

"At the beginning it was quite comical, she went from being nasty to suggesting I was her boyfriend and that her and I were in love and what time was I coming home at," the Nolan Show host said.

"Then there would be a mother in the background screaming down the phone that I needed to treat her better, we would listen to these messages every day in the Nolan office and it was a little bit funny.

"It then got to the stage where there were letters coming into the BBC for me most days from this woman, who I had never met, never knew. She was saying on these messages, living in a world where she was living with me every day and she would listen to the radio every day and then recount what her and I had allegedly done together."

Mr Nolan was shocked to find himself face to face with Marie.

"I drove down to the BBC one morning and here is this woman flown over from Scotland, so now she was standing at the bonnet of my car screaming at me that her and I had been in this relationship for ten years and this is disgraceful that I was treating her this way," he said.

"Very little frightens me and I got really frightened because I thought where next? What if this woman picks up the phone to the police and alleges that I had done something.

"There was me vulnerable with this person I didn't know who had completely got herself into some type of state where reality didn't matter to her. Her reality was that her and I were together."

He began to get phone calls from local businesses after Marie convinced them that she was in a relationship with the popular presenter.

"I then got a phone call the same week from a hotel she had managed to convince them that I was her boyfriend and they were looking for me to settle the bill because she told them I would," Mr Nolan said.

"I then got a phone call from a business where she had managed to convince them we were together and her and I were leaving Northern Ireland to go back to Scotland to set up a home together.

"I had to phone the police, it's hard to imagine unless it's happening to you because it does strike fear into you. You think 'I'm vulnerable here' these people could say anything."

"I started changing my route home in case she was following me in a car, it changed my life to that extent."A cross-party coalition of MPs is calling on the Government to repeal a 150-year-old piece of legislation that criminalises abortion.

Labour backbencher Stella Creasy, who backs the move, has said that repealing the Offences against the Persons Act 1861 would remove a block to abortion law reform in Northern Ireland.

Ms Creasy, appearing on the BBCs Andrew Marr Show, said the current law placed women in the same category as rapists.

Prime Minister Theresa May faces a political headache over the issue, however, because her fragile administration depends on the support of 10 Democratic Unionist Party MPs, who strongly oppose any reform to Northern Irelands strict laws.

It's about repealing a piece of UK legislation that stops people from having medical rather than criminal laws about abortion, says @stellacreasy #marr pic.twitter.com/vMiYIYpZjc  The Andrew Marr Show (@MarrShow) June 3, 2018

Downing Street believes that any reform in Northern Ireland is an issue for Northern Ireland, a source said, adding it shows one of the important reasons we need a functioning executive back up and running.

Ms Creasy said: The Offences against the Person Act passed in 1861 puts abortion in the same category as rape, child stealing and using gun powder to blow people up.

What that means is that right now in Northern Ireland, where there are no exemptions to this law, if you are raped and you become pregnant as a result of that rape, and you seek a termination, you would face a longer prison sentence than the person who attacked you.

The Labour MP said that the move would be respectful of devotion, adding: It is about repealing a piece of UK legislation that stops people in Northern Ireland having medical rather than criminal laws about abortion.

Arlene Foster insists marriage equality and abortion are "devolved issues" pic.twitter.com/fcnyA9vA1G  Trevor Phillips on Sunday (@RidgeOnSunday) June 3, 2018

Ms Creasy also criticised DUP leader Arlene Foster who said she found it quite distasteful to see people dancing about on the streets after the Irish abortion referendum.

The Labour MP told Skys Ridge on Sunday: I would suggest that somebody who intends to go and march with the Orange Order in Fife at the end of this month may want to reflect on the value of making comments about other peoples protests and decisions to join people.

The result in Ireland was overwhelming, it was overwhelming in terms of the impact it will have on the lives of thousands of women in Ireland  2.5 million women who now have the right not to be forced to continue an unwanted pregnancy.

It also reflects the importance of listening to communities. They had to have a referendum there because they had a constitutional bar on providing abortion.

Clearly, that will make a big impact on peoples lives and I would just suggest to Arlene Foster that criticising people for feeling that is a powerful statement of equality and liberation isnt the best way forward if she wants to somebody who is seen to be listening to her community.Gardai have been investigating the mans death (Niall Carson/PA)

A man in his 20s is due in court following the death of a man at a pub in Mitchelstown, Co Cork, police said.

Patrick (Paddy) ODonnell, aged 36, of Stag Park, Ballindangan Road in Mitchelstown, died after an alleged assault in the town on Friday.

The incident happened at Willie Andies pub at New Square at around 11pm.

A post-mortem examination was scheduled to be carried out on Sunday.

The man in his 20s is expected to appear before a special sitting of Mallow District Court on Sunday afternoon charged in connection with the death.A doctor who attended the London Bridge attack paid tribute to a colourful colleague killed in the rampage.

John Chatterjee said the one-year anniversary was particularly emotional as he had seen nurse Kirsty Boden at work during the day.

The consultant, who works at Guys Hospital in London Bridge, said: She was always very colourful, very, very professional and really good at her job.

I remember seeing her that morning but I didnt get a chance to speak to her. I only found out what happened the following morning.

Today has been a challenging time for me personally.

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Australian Ms Boden, 28, was one of eight killed during the carnage on London Bridge and Borough Market on June 3 last year.

Mr Chatterjee, who was speaking at the site as floral tributes were left in remembrance, also works for the air ambulance and rushed to the scene in that capacity.

Mike Christian, the clinical lead for Essex and Herts air ambulance, was also called into action.

He said: When I arrived streams of people were coming off the bridge, lots of people were helping, carrying injured people, giving CPR. It was amazing to see.

One year on we remember the victims of the London Bridge terror attack, including two brave Australians, Sara Zelenak and Kirsty Boden. We continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the UK in the fight against terrorism. #LondonUnited  Malcolm Turnbull  (@TurnbullMalcolm) June 3, 2018

Today was my first time walking over the bridge since then, it was very surreal.

I could see vivid images of where people were lying in this job you see some of the most difficult things.

We have to recognise talking about it is one of the most important things to do.

A group of nurses who treated the wounded also attended the remembrance event.

Hannah Branford, who works at Kings College Hospital, said she had tried to forget some of the horror but the emotion of the day had opened up some scars.The nation has remembered victims of the London Bridge terror attack with a minutes silence.

A memorial event was held near the scene one year on from the atrocity which killed eight innocent people, with friends and families laying flowers as the names of the dead were read aloud.

Hundreds  including Prime Minister Theresa May, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick  lined streets around Southwark Needle as grieving families hugged and wiped away tears following a service at Southwark Cathedral on Sunday.

The moment marked one year since three jihadists drove a van into pedestrians on London Bridge before stabbing revellers in nearby Borough Market with 12-inch ceramic knives.

Khuram Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30, and Youssef Zaghba, 22, who wore fake suicide vests, were shot dead by police just eight minutes after the first emergency call.

A doctor who tended to victims remembered a colourful colleague killed in the rampage, saying the anniversary was particularly emotional as he had seen her at work that day.

Consultant John Chatterjee, who works at Guys Hospital, paid tribute to Australian nurse Kirsty Boden, 28, saying: She was always very colourful, very, very professional and really good at her job.

Expand Close Bishop of Southwark Christopher Chessun, left, and Imam Mohammad Yazdani Raza on London Bridge (Andrew Matthews/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

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I remember seeing her that morning but I didnt get a chance to speak to her. I only found out what happened the following morning.

Today has been a challenging time for me personally.

Dr Chatterjee and Mike Christian were both on duty for Londons Air Ambulance on the night, with Dr Christian adding: Today was my first time walking over the bridge since then, it was very surreal.

I could see vivid images of where people were lying in this job you see some of the most difficult things.

We have to recognise talking about it is one of the most important things to do.

Today we remember those who died in the London Bridge attack and the many more who were injured, as we pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened and came to the aid of others.  PM @theresa_may  UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) June 3, 2018

Many emergency service staff were in attendance, including British Transport Police officer Wayne Marques, who suffered major injuries after fighting off the terrorists with only his baton.

The 39-year-old is to be afforded a special honour when a corbel, a type of structural stone, bearing a likeness of his face is placed in the north quire aisle of the cathedral.

Dignitaries including Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Home Secretary Sajid Javid were invited to lay flowers alongside people injured in the attacks.

A floral wreath from Mrs May read: We will never forget those who died and will never surrender to hatred and division.

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Mr Khans tribute read: Our city will never forget you. We stand united against terrorism and together in remembering the innocent lives lost.

A service of commemoration was held at the cathedral earlier on Sunday, with family members lighting candles in memory of loved ones who died.

Dean of Southwark Cathedral Andrew Nunn told the 700-strong congregation: I hope it helps our healing.

Whatever your hopes are, whatever your pain is, whatever has kept you awake at night, whatever anger, sorrow or guilt you are feeling: God is here for you.

Love is stronger than hate, light is stronger than darkness and life is stronger than death.

It was true a year ago. It is as true today.

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Following the service an olive tree  known as the Tree of Healing  was planted in the cathedral grounds using compost from flowers left on the bridge after the murders last year.

Ahead of the days commemorative events, the Prime Minister recalled stories of courage which emerged from the attack.

She described it as a cowardly attempt to strike at the heart of our freedoms by deliberately targeting people enjoying their Saturday night with friends and family.

Mrs May said: Today we remember those who died and the many more who were injured, and also pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened or came to the aid of others.

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The many stories of courage demonstrated that night will always stay with me  such as Ignacio Echeverria, who died after confronting the terrorists with the only thing he had, his skateboard, and Geoff Ho, who spent almost two weeks in hospital after being stabbed in the neck as he shielded his friends.

Those killed in the attack were Canadian Christine Archibald, 30, James McMullan, 32, from Hackney, Frenchmen Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sebastien Belanger, 36 and Xavier Thomas, 45, Australians Kirsty Boden, 28 and Sara Zelenak 21, and Spaniard Mr Echeverria, 39.President Donald Trump will not pardon himself, his lawyer said (Jacquelyn Martin/AP)

A lawyer for Donald Trump has stressed the presidents legal team would contest any effort to force him to testify before a grand jury during the special counsels Russia probe.

But Rudy Giuliani downplayed the idea that Mr Trump could pardon himself.

In a series of television interviews, Mr Giuliani emphasised one of the main arguments in a newly unveiled letter sent by Mr Trumps lawyers to special counsel Robert Mueller back in January  that a president cannot be given a grand jury subpoena as part of the investigation into foreign meddling in the 2016 election.

Pardoning other people is one thing, pardoning yourself is tough.Rudy Giuliani

But he distanced himself from one of their bolder arguments in the letter  that a president could not have committed obstruction of justice because he has authority to if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.

Pardoning himself would be unthinkable and probably lead to immediate impeachment, Mr Giuliani told NBCs Meet the Press. And he has no need to do it, hes done nothing wrong.

The former New York City mayor, who was not on the legal team when the letter was written, added that Mr Trump probably does have the power to pardon himself, an assertion challenged by legal scholars, but says the presidents legal team has not discussed that option, which many observers believe could plunge the nation into a constitutional crisis.

I think the political ramifications would be tough, Mr Giuliani said. Pardoning other people is one thing, pardoning yourself is tough.

Mr Trump has issued two unrelated pardons in recent days and discussed others, a move that has been interpreted as a possible signal to allies ensnared in the Russia probe.

The letter is dated January 29 and addressed to Mr Mueller from John Dowd, a Trump lawyer who has since resigned from the legal team.

Mr Mueller has requested an interview with the president to determine whether he had criminal intent to obstruct the investigation into his associates possible links to Russias election interference.

Mr Giuliani said on Sunday that a decision about an interview would not be made until after Mr Trumps summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore, and he cast doubt that it would occur at all.

I mean, were leaning toward not, Mr Giuliani told ABC. But look, if they can convince us that it will be brief, it would be to the point, there were five or six points they have to clarify, and with that, we can get this  this long nightmare for the  for the American public over.

Mr Trumps legal team has long pushed the special counsel to narrow the scope of its interview.

Mr Giuliani also suggested that Mr Trumps lawyers had been incorrect when they denied that the president was involved with the letter that offered an explanation for Donald Trump Jrs 2016 Trump Tower meeting with Russians who offered damaging information on Democrat Hillary Clinton.

This is the reason you dont let the president testify, Mr Giuliani told ABC. Our recollection keeps changing, or were not even asked a question and somebody makes an assumption.

If Mr Trump does not consent to an interview, Mr Mueller will have to decide whether to go forward with a historic grand jury subpoena. His team raised the possibility in March of subpoenaing the president, but it is not clear if it is still under active consideration.Japanese astronaut Norishige Kanai comes out of the capsule (Dmitry Lovetsky/AP)

A Russian Soyuz space capsule carrying three astronauts from the International Space Station has landed in the steppes of Kazakhstan.

The capsule landed at 6:39pm local time on Sunday without apparent problems, descending under a red-and-white parachute.

On board were Russian Anton Shkaplerov, American Scott Tingle and Japans Norishige Kanai, ending a 168-day mission.

The orbiting laboratory now has a crew of three  Americans Drew Feustel and Ricky Arnold and Russian Oleg Artemyev.

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Another three astronauts are to be launched to the station on Wednesday.Moncks Corner, SC (29461)

Today

Some clouds. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable.The six countries to benefit from the health team plan are India, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare has announced that it will be forming six medical teams to focus on six countries covered by the governments New Southbound Policy.

After coming to power in May 2016, President Tsai Ing-wen launched the policy to intensify contacts with the countries of South Asia and Southeast Asia.

The six countries to benefit from the health team plan are India, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand.

The new program will include the training of medical personnel, the providing of useful information, and the promotion of medical cooperation.PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said he will not approve a Bangsamoro Basic Law that would create a fissure in government as he rejected again proposals to create a Bangsamoro police and military force. The President made the statement days after he certified as urgent the versions of the BBL before the House of Representatives and the Senate. On the BBL, I might as well be frank. I will accommodate, I will move the extra mile but never would I agree that there will be a fissure somewhere, he said in a press briefing late Saturday night. The Philippine National Police will remain one line to the last barangay tanod. The Armed Forces of the Philippines will only have one command from the Chief of Staff down, Duterte said. Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said Dutertes decision to reject proposals for a separate police and military for the proposed new autonomous region has already been conveyed to members of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission. The contentious issue that the President decided on is there can be no separate Bangsamoro police and separate Bangsamoro armed forces, which the BTC wants, Roque said. The House version of the substitute BBL already had marked differences from the one proposed by the BTC. The version passed by the House slashed the proposed annual block grant from 6 percent to 5 percent of national internal revenue and Customs collections. It also removed the proposed periodic plebiscites that would have allowed for the Bangsamoro regions repeated expansion for the next 25 years. The House also increased the number of reserved powers of the national government from only nine to 20, including powers over the armed forces, police, jail management, elections, and coast guard, among others. The Senate version of the BBL is even more different from the BTC version, but senators said it is more compliant with the 1987 Constitution. Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said there were at least 10 significant differences between the Senate and the House versions. Senators wanted a ban on political dynasties, a provision that was highly opposed by the BTC, Drilon said. The Senate also deleted provisions on reserved, concurrent and exclusive powers of the proposed Bangsamoro government. Moro Islamic Liberation Front vice chairman for political affairs Ghadzali Jaafar said the MILF would prefer if the final version to be passed by the bicameral conference is as close as possible to their proposed BBL. We want our proposals to be included in the final version. If not all, then at least the final version should not be diluted or watered down, he said in a recent television interview.Roque said the President is counting on all stakeholders to work together for the passage of a BBL that is acceptable to all and will withstand the test of judicial scrutiny. It is really a process of give and take...Otherwise we wont have a BBL, Roque said. Zamboanga City Rep. Celso Lobregat on Sunday urged fellow lawmakers, including senators, to address in a bicameral conference committee meeting next month the remaining controversial provisions of the proposed BBL that could spark a constitutional challenge. He, along with Lanao del Norte Rep. Abdullah Dimaporo, recently abstained during the plenary voting of the BBL measure, clarifying his stance that he just wanted to ensure that all provisions of the bill were constitutionally compliant. I think none of us is opposing [the BBL]. We are opposed to certain provisions that are unconstitutional or disadvantageous, but many of these have already been addressed. Not all, but substantial, he said. Lobregat, a member of the bicameral conference committee, said they would meet from July 9 to July 13 to harmonize the disagreeing provisions of the BBL bill. Well, I am substantially satisfied, not fully, but substantially, he said. He said the Shariah court should still be under the Supreme Court in the final version of the BBL. I think there were [amendments]. For me, the Shariah court shouldnt be a high court. It should be an appellate court and it should not have jurisdiction on criminal cases, he said. Anak Mindanao Rep. Amilhilda Sangcopan, who voted for the passage of the BBL, called on the bicameral conference committee not to pass a watered-down peace bill.Former Manitoba attorney general, lawyer, University of Manitoba dean of law, author and social justice champion Roland Penner, 93, died Thursday from complications following a broken ankle.

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This article was published 2/6/2018 (1229 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

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Former Manitoba attorney general, lawyer, University of Manitoba dean of law, author and social justice champion Roland Penner, 93, died Thursday from complications following a broken ankle.

As attorney general, Penner was known for his role in introducing Manitobas first human rights legislation and including protections for sexual orientation, Manitobas first Legal Aid system, the freedom of information legislation and legislation requiring French-language services in Manitoba.

Penner was a U of M law professor from 1972 to 2009, the founding chair and president of Manitobas new Legal Aid system in 1972 to 1978, the dean of the U of M Faculty of Law in 1989 to 1994 and a senior scholar with the faculty until his death. He was an NDP MLA from 1981 to 1988 in Winnipegs Fort Rouge riding under the Howard Pawley government and served as attorney general, among other appointments.

Penner was appointed to the Queens Council (1972), the Order of Canada (2000), the Order of Manitoba (2014) and was the recipient of the Canadian Bar Associations Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Community Ally Award (2016).

In his obituary, his family notes Penner was headed out to play bridge on the day after a blizzard when he broke his ankle and "was determined to live his life to the fullest."

His family stated in his obituary Penner spent a "lifetime fighting for social justice and human rights."

"He was unstoppable," said Lorna Turnbull, Penners former U of M colleague who also served as dean of law (2011-2016). She said she knew Penner for nearly two decades.

"He was coming up to his 94th birthday in July and wed still see him out at the faculty on a regular basis. He was still working on a couple of books. He was a regular force of nature."

Turnbull said Penner was known at the U of M, in addition to his work with students, for the way he mentored colleagues.

His public service work changed the legal and social landscape for people across the country, she said.

"The impacts that he had affect the day-to-day lives today of Manitobans and Canadians in ways that are lasting," Turnbull said.

She said Penners work in implementing French-language services in Manitoba "has absolutely enriched our province" and was particularly significant since there was pushback at the time from the Supreme Court of Canada.

Andrew Swan, the NDP MLA for Minto, said he had a chance to work with Penner in 2012 when the NDP was updating the human rights code which was the 25th anniversary of Penners work on the human rights legislation in Manitoba.

"I had a look in the Hansard of what was said in the legislature at that time and it was some pretty fierce opposition," Swan said. "I really think it can be said that we stand on the shoulders of people like Roland Penner who was brave and was prepared to move the goalposts in a way that a generation later is continuing to benefit from."

NDP leader Wab Kinew expressed his condolences to Penners family and paid tribute to Penner in a statement on his Twitter account.

"Rest In Power Roland Penner: a great Manitoban and a strong New Democrat who served our province as Attorney General, among many other important roles...Miigwech Roland for all youve done!" the statement read.

"Roland did a lot to advance social justice in Manitoba but seeing as its Pride week it may be particularly poignant to commemorate his work on the Manitoba Human Rights Code and for bringing human rights protections for sexual orientation to our province."

Penner was born in Winnipeg on July 30, 1924, to Jacob Penner and Rose Shapack was raised in Winnipegs North End.

He joined Canadas military at age 19 and served in the Canadian artillery in Europe during the Second World War. After the war, he attended the U of M where he earned arts and law degrees. He was called to the Manitoba bar in 1961.

Penner began his teaching career in law at the U of M in 1967 while he was still a practicing lawyer. His obituary notes he taught courses in constitutional law, criminal law, labour law, evidence, and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

ashley.prest@freepress.mb.caTHE camp of former senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday described as deeply disturbing the discovery of alleged irregularities involving the ballots from Iloilo that are set to be re-counted by the Supreme Court, acting as Presidential Electoral Tribunal. Marcoss spokesman Vic Rodriguez made the statement after the PET retrieval team found several anomalies on the ballots from one of three pilot provinces for a recount in the 2016 vice presidential race. Marcos claims having been cheated in that race that was won by Leni Robredo, and on June 29, 2016 filed a protest and demanded a re-count of the votes. Robredo won the vice presidential race with 14,418,817 votes or 263,473 more than Marcos 14,155,344 votes. Rodriguez particularly cited reports of ballots placed inside plastic containers commonly used as household storage devices or picnic containers. We are deeply disturbed as to these kinds of reports and are in serious discussion whether there are still authentic documents left to be examined after they were observed to have been placed in ordinary plastic containers that are readily available in supermarkets instead of on the much hyped tamper-proof VCMs or official ballot boxes of Smartmatic as required by law, Rodriguez said, in a statement. Aside from the ballots found inside plastic containers, the retrieval team also claimed having discovered wet ballots, ballot boxes with broken seals, boxes with damaged covers and metal boxes with no padlocks.They said wet ballots were earlier found in Camarines Sur, but it was the first time the PET had discovered ballots placed outside ballot boxes. The tribunals team did not immediately know why the ballots were placed inside the plastic containers. They managed to retrieve more than 2,200 ballot boxes from the clustered precincts in Iloilo province for the ongoing recount. The retrieved boxes were loaded in 16 container vans and transported via the sea by four cargo ships, which left the province the other day for the port of Manila. For Camarines Sur, where the votes in about 200 clustered precincts have yet to be recounted, the PET had already ordered the municipal treasurers to explain the existence of wet ballots. Last month, the tribunal ordered the retrieval of ballots in 2,740 clustered precincts in Iloilo for the second part of the initial manual recount for the election protest of Marcos against Robredo.Opposition lawmakers are questioning the Philippines anemic stand against Chinas military buildup in the West Philippine Sea. It appears to the concerned solons that the governments foreign policy and national security preparedness give the impression hospitable Filipinos would be more than happy to host a Chinese invasion. Senator Panfilo Lacson exclaimed: God help the Philippines if we kept trusting Chinas good faith. He was supported in this view in the House by Magdalo Party List Rep. Gary Alejano who questioned Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon what they are doing about Chinas intrusion in our territorial waters. Esperon is a former Armed Forces chief of staff. Cayetano cited numerous diplomatic protests filed with the Chinese embassy in Manila, adding that we want to do this quietly and without fanfare. He, however, admitted that these diplomatic notes were mostly ignored by China. But what does he expect when our government seems subservient to Xi Jinping and his politburo cabal in Beijing? We are not advocating saber-rattling given that we do not have the military might China has. But should we just roll over and play dead while the Chinese walk all over us? The people certainly can make noise contrary to Cayetanos quiet way which can only encourage further encroachment by the Chinese on our 200-mile economic inclusion zone as mandated in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos). Or consistently refer to The Hagues arbitration court which ruled in our favor that Beijings expansive claim in the South China Sea is illegal and without basis. Including this in our diplomatic protests is non-threatening but merely lays the basis for our protests about transgression in our waters. Our governments problem is that our officials are too cautious about offending China given President Rodrigo Dutertes publicly professed love for Xi Jinping. The Philippine government, following President Dutertes repeated statement that we cannot fight China in a war and the US cannot come to our defense if the country is attacked, does not speak well of our leaders. While we do not have to engage China in a verbal exchange, I would suggest we also do not tell them our weakness in defense and national security. Diplomacy is the art of saying things differently or not saying anything at all. We should instead let the Chinese keep thinking and guessing whether the Americans will come to our aid or not. The 1951 US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty says America willbut the MDT is rather vague in some gray areas. Washington, on the other hand, recently said the US will continue to confront China if it keeps placing bombers and cruise missiles weapons on the artificial islands it has built in the South China Sea. US Defense Secretary Jim Mathis, however, did not say anything about the recent incident in which it was Chinas Navy that confronted and shooed away two US warships conducting operations to ensure right of way passage in international sea lanes. US touching off a trade warWhat was President Donald Trump thinking when he announced a plan to impose heavy tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada and Europe? French President Emmanuel Macron said France will take a commensurate action in response to the unilateral measure which runs counter to World Trade Organizations fair trade rules. Other US trading partners for sure will also take appropriate action. The US tariff slapping 25 percent on imported steel and 10 percent on aluminum takes effect on Friday. Under this looming trade war between the US and the rest of the world, European Union President Jean Claude Juncker warmly welcomed Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi to EU headquarters in Brussels. The Chinese officials timely visit raises the prospects of EU countries doing more trade with the Chinese and further isolating the US because of its protectionist policy. So, what was Trump thinking ? Some wags in Washington quipped that Trump was more focused on his meeting not with the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un but with another Kim whose last name is Kardashian. You really cannot blame Trump for preferring reality TV star Kardashian who is richly endowed with twin peaks and better looking than the little rocket man with a fat belly. We wonder what First Lady Melania Trump was thinking of her husbands summit with Kim Kardashian. Will she be present at this closed-door meeting? Did they turn off the closed circuit TV cameras at the Oval Office? Im kidding, of course.By David Raleigh

The mayor of Limerick has joined others in paying tribute to former Labour Party councillor Seamus Houlihan, who died in a fire at his home in Limerick city.

Mr Houlihan, a widowed father of two, from Rose Court, Keyes Park, died after a fire broke out at the property, in the early hours of Saturday, June 2.

The deceased, aged in his 80s, was discovered in an upstairs room at the house by his son James, also a former Limerick city Labour Party councillor.

Gardai believe the fire was accidental and that it may have started due to an electrical fault with a kitchen appliance.

In a statment, mayor of Limerick city and county, Cllr Stephen Keary offered his condolences to the Houlihan family.

On behalf of the people of Limerick and the elected representatives, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Seamuss sons Kieran and James following their tragic loss. Seamus was a member of the Labour Party and was co-opted onto the then Limerick City Council following the death of Jim Kemmy," the mayor said.

Seamus represented the people of Southill and the old Limerick Ward No 3 until 1999.

All our thoughts are with his family, sons Kieran and James, grandchildren and other family and friends at this tragic time. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dhilis.

Mr Houlihan, was elected to Limerick City Council in 1998, and was a well-known champion of rights for the elderly, said Limerick Labour TD and former Minister for Education, Jan O'Sullivan.

He was also well known as an active member of the Irish Senior Citizens Parliament national organisation.

Despite attempts by Mr Houlihan's son, James, as well as a neighbour, Ger Conway, to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gardai said James Houlihan discovered the house filled with smoke and his father unresponsive.

Mr Houlihan's home. Pic: Press 22.

Ger Conway, who ran into the burning house to help Mr Houlihan's son, said: I could hear James shouting dad, dad, dad. So I jumped out of bed. James opened the door, and I was behind him, and the smoke came out and hit us.

The smoke was tremendous.

James ran up the stairs and I ran up behind him and Seamus was on the ground, inside in the bathroom. He wasn't breathing.

I said to James to open all the windows to let the smoke out. It was (hard to see) because I had my shirt (pulled) up to me. The smoke was terrible.

Mr Conway, 61, said despite their best efforts they couldnt revive Mr Houlihan.

I was pulling Seamus, I was shaking him, and calling his name, but there was no movement out of him, nothing at all.

The fire brigade came so quick then and they ran in with the oxygen masks.

Mr Houlihans wife Geraldine passed away peacefully at the family home two years ago.

Former Minister for Education, and Labours only TD for Limerick, Jan OSullivan, paying tribute, said: It's a huge shock. My sympathy goes out to Seamuss two sons James and Kieran."

Seamus was a very good public representative and a very nice man. After he stopped being a councillor he was involved in the senior citizens parliament, lobbying politicians about senior citizens rights.

He was a real mark on the Southill community and hell be sadly missed by everyone.

Neighbours were also in shock, including Helen Moloney, a close friend, who fought back tears at hearing the news.

I'm heartbroken, and Ill miss him. He was a good neighbour, she said.

Family friend, Marie Hannon, added: I'm in shock, shock, total shock. You wouldn't meet a nicer person.

Seamus Houlihan. Pic: Press 22.

Mr Houlihan, predeceased by his wife Geraldine, is survived by his sons James and Kieran.

He was also a peace commissioner and a projectionist at the former Royal Cinema, Limerick, neighbours said.

A post mortem was due to be carried out on Mr Houlihan's body at University Hospital Limerick.

Funeral details have yet to be finalised.An Irish man is reported to have died in Majorca.

Local reports say the 20-year-old arrived there yesterday and is believed to have fallen from an apartment block in Magaluf.

His body was found by one of the residents at around 11am this morning and police are investigating a report that he may have fallen around 20 metres.

He was found dead at the scene and a post mortem will be carried out tomorrow.

It is reported that he was not staying at the apartment block, Eden Roc, but was resident at a nearby hotel.Details of the explosive criminal cartel allegations against ANZ Bank, Citigroup and Deutsche Bank are expected in coming days, with the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) tipped to formally file charges this week.

ANZ has said it would defend against allegations it was "knowingly concerned" in cartel conduct. Credit:Glenn Hunt

After the three banks on Friday said they expected to be charged over a $2.5 billion capital raising in 2015, banking sources thought it likely the case would be filed this week, with some expecting the charges to be laid as soon as Tuesday.

The allegations centre on the banks' behaviour following the issue of new ANZ shares to institutional investors, when Citi, JPMorgan and Deutsche acted as underwriters and ended up holding almost $800 million in ANZ shares.Fortescue Metals Group boss Elizabeth Gaines says one of her goals as chief executive officer is that the companys exploration activities find another commodity that could be mined.

Ms Gaines said like many miners Fortescue was optimistic about the future for copper, and has concessions in Ecuador that are prospective for copper and gold. The miner has established an office in the country but drilling has not started.

Fortescue's port facility at Port Hedland, Western Australia. Credit:Brendon Thorne

The company is also establishing a presence in Argentina, a country which it believes is prospective for copper, gold and lithium.

Fortescue is currently a pure-play iron ore producer, producing about 170 million tonnes of iron ore per annum from its operations in the Pilbara in Western Australia. It is the worlds lowest-cost iron ore producer.NewsMediaWorks chief executive Peter Miller believes advertisers may reconsider spending their budgets with the digital giants, after revealing rising readership numbers for traditional publishers.

In the past 12 months to March, print readership for major newspapers increased 4.7 per cent year on year, according to industry-backed readership survey Enhanced Media Metrics Australia (Emma) data.

Solid readership figures for traditional media titles and trust scandals among the digital giants, could see advertisers re-considering their spend. Credit:David Morris

At the same time, digital readership of news titles surged 3.8 per cent to 13.5 million. This measure includes those who use smartphones, tablets and laptops. Total cross-platform readership remained steady over March, reaching 16.5 million Australians compared to 12.4 million for print.

The Readership Works, a subsidiary of NewsMediaWorks, was co-founded in 2010 by Fairfax Media (owner of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age), News Corp and Seven West Media."I am pregnant and I am due next week," says Mrs Yang. "I was keeping working until a few months ago and then I felt really tired and I can't work anymore I told Foodco, can they help me at all with reducing the rent? The consultant from Foodco said 'Sorry we can't help' and just find some reasons to negotiate with the shopping centre. If I can't work I don't have money to pay for the rent." Mrs Yang says she did not receive any assistance from Foodco and kept on having to pay the franchise fee. "[The landlord] sent me a default notice and pushed me to pay the money, finally a few months later I still can't afford the rent," she says. "They have just taken over our shop." Mrs Yang says she does not expect to get any money from Foodco for the franchise. "They didn't offer anything," she says. "My husband is trying to find some work. It's not that easy to find a job."

A spokesperson for Foodco said the franchisor strongly disputes Mrs Yang's claims, which it says are incorrect. There are 170 Jamaica Blue franchises in Australia. Credit:Phil Carrick Franchising inquiry As parliament's franchising inquiry prepares for hearings in June, further complaints about Foodco have emerged. The franchisor has come under scrutiny after sending a letter to franchisees warning them about making submissions to the inquiry.

Fairfax Media understands around 20 Foodco franchisees have made submissions, however the majority of these are confidential. Alan Pearson is one former franchisee who has made a public submission to the inquiry in which he says he lost everything after running a Jamaica Blue franchise in Castle Hill in NSW for 13 years. Pearson bought the franchise for $560,000 in 2004 but quickly found the figures he had been quoted by Foodco were "widely overstated". He had been assured of gross revenue of $18,000 per week and was taking only $12,500 a week. "Both my wife and myself worked in this shop seven days a week averaging 60 hours for most of [the] 13 years we were there. No holidays were taken during this period, as a result our health deteriorated significantly," Pearson says in his submission. "We repeatedly informed Foodco of our plans including my poor trading position. They were not interested in my bottom line, simply my sales and therefore their commission." When the Castle Hill shopping centre was redeveloped Pearson says Foodco decided not to renew the lease as it was too high.

"They abandoned us after 13 years, no offer of alternative site, no compensation for 13 years of faithful service," he said. "To a franchisee no lease equals no business. This is a disaster, and it's common." Pearson closed his Jamaica Blue store on 28 February 2018 and received a letter from Foodco demanding payment of $68,000 within 14 days. He has had to sell his family home to repay his debts and says he still has considerable debts. No reasonable prospect of making a profit

Stewart Levitt, of Levitt Robinson Solicitors, has represented Jamaica Blue franchisees and says in his submission to the inquiry that Jamaica Blue stores are forced to serve a "bland, mundane menu" which is relatively expensive. "The franchisor's ability to dictate which supplies the franchisee must purchase and to control the mark-ups and maintain its own margins appear to be the main drivers of the franchisor's 'system'," he says. Loading Levitt says franchisees are set up to fail from the outset with high costs of buying a Jamaica Blue franchise. "Franchisees who buy into Jamaica Blue are induced to spend substantial sums, frequently in excess of half a million dollars, on set-up costs for a cafe, with no reasonable prospect of making a profit," he says.

No guarantee of success A spokesperson for Foodco said it provides franchisees with extensive support in their business. "Unfortunately, like any business or investment we cannot guarantee success and in the current challenging retail climate theres a great deal of pressure brought on by reduced sales growth in shopping malls, high rents and rising operational costs (e.g. electricity)," the spokesperson said. The spokesperson said Foodco tries to minimise risk through a shared commitment with its franchisees to consistent adherence and compliance with its business model. "The success of our business is entirely underpinned by the success of our franchisees and it is in no ones interest to pursue practices which would lead to a failed franchise," the spokesperson said.About $40 million remains available to Queenslanders who failed to claim rebates they are entitled to on a range of bills, including power and water.

Acting Premier Jackie Trad said around 500,000 people every year took advantage of rebates, but there were some who hadn't taken up the offer of support.

"So new people coming into the system, whether they're people with a newly diagnosed disability, whether they're people who have found it difficult to get work and are now on Centrelink, whether they are asylum seekers," Ms Trad told reporters on Sunday.

"We acknowledge that we need to do better to get the word out to them that they may be eligible for government concessions."

To help with this, the government has set up a website, www.qld.gov.au/smartsavings, where people can check whether they're eligible for rebates.World-renowned Finnish education expert Pasi Sahlberg would add one recommendation to the 23 made in the recent Gonski report on excellence in schools; teach every Australian student a foreign language.

Australia is near the bottom of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development rankings (OECD) when it comes the number of high school graduates leaving school with a second language.

Pasi Sahlberg, Professor of education policy at the Gonski Institute for Education, UNSW Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

"If I could add one recommendation, my [24th] recommendation would be, 'make learning a foreign language a right for every child in Australia'," said Dr Sahlberg, for whom English is a third language.

"It has several good arguments. One is simply learning  the bulk of evidence says learning a new language is very good for your brain. It helps you learn better at other things.When Pulitzer Prize-winning Australian author Geraldine Brooks returned to the frontline of the Israeli Palestinian conflict after an absence of 30 years she found it much changed.

Reporting from the contested territories for The Wall Street Journal until the late 1980s, there had been about 60,000 settlers in the West Bank; now there were more than 600,000.

Geraldine Brooks returns to narrative journalism to explore the human cost of the Israeli Palestinian conflict.

''The huge workforce that used to enter Israel daily from Gaza no longer exists,'' she said. ''West Bank Palestinians need permits to enter Israeli territory and even if they get one, they must traverse arduous checkpoints where delays can take hours.

''Apart from settlers and soldiers, few Israelis venture into the Palestinian territories, so the societies have grown even more divided, with very little casual interaction even possible.''But dear James  what have you done! The Canberra of The New Kid is a horrible place, cold, unwelcoming, not home.

Did someone say Canberra? A kids book set in our own fair city! Let me have a look.

James O'Loghlin has a new book out set in Canberra, the city he grew up in. Credit:Dallas Kilponen

Everyone knows what a daunting, scary, experience moving schools can be. Its no fun being the new kid. So, when 11-year-old Sam moves with his parents from Adelaide to Canberra, he hatches a plan, or two, or three to make himself the most popular kid ever.

When the publicity blurb came in about James OLoghlins new childrens book I got quite excited.

Im so disappointed and I tell you so. I dont mind one bit that youre on the back foot from the start.

The books about the unsettling experience of moving to a new city and how, if you're an only child and you're ensconced in a happy environment, and suddenly you're uprooted and you have to go somewhere where you don't know anyone, you see everything initially in a nervous and intimidating light, OLoghlin says apologetically.

I suppose part of the book is his gradual coming to terms with living in Canberra and by the end of the book he's realised he quite likes it and the things he didn't like weren't really about Canberra per se but it was about being the new kid and being unsettled and wishing he was back with his friends in Adelaide.

Keep going, you havent convinced me yet that this isnt just more Canberra bashing.

I grew up in Canberra, like Sam, I moved there when I was about seven for my dads work. I went to Forrest Primary School and then Canberra Grammar, I really miss the openness of it, how easy it is to get places  but lets face it, it is cold."Boy, man, you caused some problems."

It's something you could imagine Malcom Turnbull saying to Barnaby Joyce. Or the Nationals party room. Or the voters of New England. Or Natalie Joyce and Barnaby's four daughters.

But, no. This is Barnaby Joyce, so it is his newborn son Sebastian who is shouldering some of the responsibility for his fall from politics during his and Vikki Campion's interview with Seven's Sunday Night.

Campion grimaces visibly at Joyce's attempt to lighten the mood of an interview that wasn't quite a car crash so much as a jolting ride in the Hilux across the top paddock.The Canberra Hospital warm water exercise pool will close at the end of the month when the University of Canberra Rehabilitation Hospital opens.

Some users of the pool have expressed concern at the closure, while others think Canberra can only sustain one rehabilitation pool.

The new state-of-the-art hydrotherapy pool at University of Canberra Hospital in Bruce.

User Linda Klintworth said despite the new pool opening up, the closure was short sighted and demand warranted two hydrotherapy pools.

She said people "heard through the grapevine" about the closure and are yet to be formally told by ACT Health.The Canberra Olympic Pool is a "unique prize waiting to be fully exploited" and "ripe for renewal", a community swimming club says.

The Molonglo Water Dragons Masters Swimming Club has called on the ACT Government to make a "modest investment" in the Civic pool so unique community asset does not fall into disrepair.

Club president John Collis fears talk of a new stadium in Civic on the site means funding for the pool has been frozen.

The ACT Government said it would continue to maintain the facility, however, it currently had no plans to upgrade the precinct.A young woman who was hit by a falling piece of ceiling on a P&O cruise as a teenager has been awarded more than $400,000 for the injury.

A dream family holiday turned into a lifelong ordeal for Montana Smith after ceiling panels from the Pacific Jewel cruise liner struck her on her head and left shoulder.

Then 14, Ms Smith was standing in a companionway of the ship with her two cousins when three sections of ceiling  each panel one metre long and 15cm thick  came loose during the Christmas 2011 voyage.

I remember standing in the hallway outside my cabin waiting for my friend and I leant against the wall, then the roof just fell down on top of my head. I was immediately shocked and confused by what had happened, Ms Smith told the Herald following a NSW Supreme Court judgment last week.

Despite a glowing list of achievements marking the Wollongong womans 21 years, she has done much of it through considerable pain.Almost seven degrees in the city now ahead of a top of 14. It's a definite layer of thermal and licorice tea start to the week.

On the roads, there's an accident at Clarinda on the Dingley Bypass at Warrigal Road. Traffic is also blocked both ways on Malvern Road between Glenferrie and Tooronga roads.

On the trains, there are delays up to 10 minutes on the Frankston line due to an earlier faulty train at South Yarra.A Queensland man has been extradited to Perth in relation to death of missing man Dean Patrick White.

Dean White was last seen on March 31 last year, and an extensive search by police and the public led to the discovery of his body in a shallow grave at a campsite around 160 kilometres north of Quairading earlier this year.

Dean Patrick White was last seen on March 31. Credit:WA Police

He was discovered not far from where he was last seen, and it's understood police commenced an investigation after his car was found dumped and there had been activity on his bank cards after his disappearence.Rome: Italy's new populist leaders commemorated the founding of the Italian republic by attending a pomp-filled military parade Saturday - and then promised to get to work creating jobs and expelling migrants.

"The free ride is over," League leader Matteo Salvini, Italy's new interior minister, warned migrants at a rally in northern Italy. "It's time to pack your bags."

The Frecce Tricolori Italian Air Force acrobatic squad flies over the monument to the unknown soldier on the occasion of the 72nd anniversary of the Italian Republic in Rome. Credit:AP

The pledge of mass deportations to come was a reminder that Italy has a staunchly anti-immigrant, right-wing party in its governing coalition - and that the European Union will face a whole new partner governing its fourth-largest economy.

Earlier, Salvini joined Premier Giuseppe Conte and the rest of the newly sworn- in Cabinet to view the Republic Day parade. Italy's aeronautic acrobatic squad flew low and loud over downtown Rome trailing smoke in the red, white and green of the Italian flag.Los Angeles: Juan Romero was a teenage Mexican immigrant working in the US as a hotel busboy 50 years ago when he was thrust into one of the seminal moments of the decade.

Romero had just stopped to shake the hand of Robert F Kennedy on the night of his victory in the California presidential primary on June 5, 1968 when a gunman shot the New York senator in the head.

Juan Romero, 67, holds a photo of himself and the dying Senator Robert F. Kennedy at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, taken by the Los Angeles Times' Boris Yaro on at his home in Modesto, California. Credit:AP

Romero held a wounded Kennedy as he lay on the ground, struggling to keep the senator's bleeding head from hitting the cold floor of the Ambassador Hotel kitchen.Snowden's defenders maintain that the US government has for years exaggerated the damage his disclosures caused. Greenwald, an American, former journalist at The Guardian now with The Intercept and based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, said there were "thousands upon thousands of documents" that journalists have chosen not to publish because they would harm peoples' reputation or privacy rights or because it would expose "legitimate surveillance programs". "It's been almost five years since newspapers around the world began reporting on the Snowden archive and the NSA has offered all kinds of shrill and reckless rhetoric about the 'damage' it has caused, but never any evidence of a single case of a life being endangered let alone harmed," Greenwald said. US intelligence officials say they are still counting the cost of his disclosures that went beyond actual intelligence collected to how it was collected. Evanina said intelligence agencies are finishing their seventh classified assessment of the damage. Joel Melstad, a spokesman for the counter-intelligence centre, said five US intelligence agencies contributed to the latest damage assessment, which itself is highly classified. Melstad said damage has been observed or verified in five categories of information the American government keeps classified to protect national security. According to Melstad, Snowden-disclosed documents have put American personnel or facilities at risk around the world, damaged intelligence collection efforts, exposed tools used to amass intelligence, destabilised partnerships abroad and exposed intelligence operations, capabilities and priorities.

"With each additional disclosure, the damage is compounded - providing more detail to what our adversaries have already learned," Melstad said. Steven Aftergood, a declassification expert at the Federation of American Scientists, said he thinks intelligence agencies are continuing to do Snowden damage assessments because the disclosures' relevance to foreign targets might take time to recognise and understand. He said the way that intelligence targets adapt based on information revealed and the impact on how the US collects intelligence could continue for years. But he said that any damage that Snowden caused to intelligence partners abroad would have been felt immediately after the disclosures began in 2013. Moscow has resisted US pressure to extradite Snowden, who faces charges that could land him in prison for up to 30 years. From exile, Snowden often does online public speaking and has been active in developing tools that reporters can use, especially in authoritarian countries, to detect whether they are under surveillance. Snowden supporters say that the government is exaggerating when it claims he took more than 1 million documents and that far fewer have actually been disclosed. "I think the number of NSA documents that have been published is in the hundreds and not the thousands," said Snowden's lawyer, Ben Wizner. He said the government has never produced any public evidence that the released materials have cause "genuine harm" to US national security.An Australian paedophile is dead after spending months in a coma following a car accident in Brazil.

Christopher John Gott, 63, was earlier this year revealed to be in a coma in a Rio de Janeiro hospital, more than 20 years after leaving the country while on parole for child sex offences.

The press secretary of Rio de Janeiro's Municipal Office of Health authorities confirmed his death from multiple organ failure on Thursday, SBS reported.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade told AAP it was providing assistance to the family of a man who died in Brazil but could not release more information due to privacy obligations.As APRA starts to hand control for investor lending back to individual ADIs, Australian Broker asks if the nations appetite for bricks and mortar investments is enough to reinvigorate its cooling property markets

Last month, APRA confirmed it would remove the temporary 10% benchmark on investor loan growth in favour of "more permanent measures to strengthen lending standards.

Introduced in 2014 as one of a number of actions to reduce higher-risk lending and improve practices, the removal of the cap is not an industry-wide measure. In order to comply with APRAs growth limits, each ADI must provide assurances on the strength of its lending standards in three key areas: investor loan growth over the previous six months; policies and serviceability; and lending practices.

For APRA chairman Wayne Byres, the removal of the cap is a marker of progress, although he maintains that there is more to do to strengthen the assessment of borrower expenses and existing debt commitments, and the oversight of lending outside of policy.

In a statement, Byres said, The temporary benchmark on investor loan growth has served its purpose. Lending growth has moderated, standards have been lifted and oversight has improved. However, the environment remains one of heightened risk, and there are still some practices that need to be further strengthened. APRA is therefore seeking assurances from ADI boards that they will maintain a firm grip ono the prudence of both policies and practices.

The caps removal may increase interest in refinancing and ... new purchases, which may see a surge in demand for investment loans - Natalie Sheehan, COO of Better Choice Home Loans

The announcement coincides with a series of emerging trends in the house market. In Melbourne and Sydney  two cities where investor appetite drove the market to a fever pitch, prompting warnings of a bubble  a drop in buyer demand has cooled house prices, and further declines are expected. Some economists predict these will be as high as 5%, and the hard data backs them up.

Figures from CoreLogic confirm that in the last 12 months prices have dropped by 2.6% in Sydney, 4.9% in Melbourne and 2.3% in Perth, with further, albeit marginal, declines in Brisbane and Adelaide. In Sydney and Melbournes auction markets, the latest clearance rates are down a full 10% year-on-year.

Further, ANZ chief executive Shayne Elliott says tighter lending standards as a direct result of the royal banking commission will make it more difficult for the average Australian to obtain a home loan, placing more pressure on the investment market.

Would [APRAs] action be because the big four banks and second-tier lenders have seen a massive drop in investment activity? asks Kevin Lee, buyers agent and mentor at Smart Property Adviser.

With the royal commission having claimed a number of scalps after the first round of hearings, this will be interesting, as not one lending institution will dare to lower their lending standards or credit assessment criteria to facilitate ramping up this side of their mortgage book.

Australias investors

Loan approval data published by the RBA (see graph) demonstrates a strong appetite for investor loans in Australia since the early 2000s, with the markets only previous slowdown attributable to the GFC. Approvals increased from a little over 30% in 2011 to almost 40% in 2015, with the trend most pronounced in NSW.

As much as 83% of all investment property in Australia is owned by small-scale investors  typically married couples with a high income and existing family home. CoreLogic data published in April confirms investors represent around 51% of new mortgage demand  well above the long-run average of 37% and in spite of tougher serviceability criteria and mortgage rate premiums. Demand from these investors, along with foreign cash buyers, is also driving new construction projects.

With lower rates perhaps closer to those offered to current owner-occupiers on a principal and interest basis, the caps removal may increase interest in refinancing and potentially new purchases, which may see a surge in demand for investment loans, says Natalie Sheehan, COO of Better Choice Home Loans.

Those who harbour ambitions to own multiple properties have likely seen portfolio growth dampen over the last two years. However, the stage is now set for these investors to start working towards their long-term goals once again, providing they meet new criteria around rental income, expenses and other credit obligations. Crucially, in a more complicated marketplace brokers will have an important role to play.

Responsible lending means brokers are required to provide a loan that is not unsuitable for the consumer, Sheehan says.

Brokers are required to undertake a detailed fact-find and due diligence surrounding areas such as an applicants living expenses, serviceability and loan sustainability. Working with brokers to satisfy consumer demand whilst meeting our obligations as a lender will remain unchanged."

Lending growth has moderated, standards have been lifted and oversight has improved. However, the environment remains one of heightened risk - Wayne Byres, APRA chairman

One emerging hotspot for investors is Hobart, Tasmania. In the midst of a housing boom that has seen property price growth rise by 17% in the past year, and an increasing number of first home buyers, demand is driven by interstate relocations and investors tempted by the high yields that can be achieved on holiday rentals and secondary properties. Figures from MyState Bank confirm that interstate buyers comprise 21% of Tasmanian house sales currently, and almost half of those are purchased as investments.

Paul Ranson, CEO of Tasmania-based Bank of Us, says, Prior to the APRA announcement, we advised our broker network that weve been successful in managing our investment lending to comply with APRAs limits and we now have the capacity for growth.

Elsewhere, other lenders are similarly prepared.

We have always maintained an appropriate mix of owner-occupier and investor loans, including before the APRA guidelines were announced in 2014, says Homeloans GM of third party distribution Daniel Carde.

Following this announcement, we will continue to originate investor loans well within our desired threshold. We are comfortable with our approach to this type of lending.

As APRA hands responsibility back to individual ADIs, the jury is out on how this could influence the market, overall property trends and, more importantly, loan approvals.

While strict criteria will underpin the investment segment in future, historic demand shows that Australians are unlikely to step away from property investments, and the loans that fund them are only part of the story. What remains to be seen is whether the mechanisms introduced to reinvigorate the market will be enough to reheat the nations cooling property prices.A broker who has written $50million worth of loans in his first year is praising a tool which is making his processes more efficient.

Melbourne-based Bernard Desmond has customers in a 250km radius, ranging from Geelong to Philip Island, and the Mornington Peninsula.

He said one of the biggest issues for brokers was collecting documents, with chasing customers and then potentially sending them back if not right.

Desmond, who has developed his business Feedback Finance, a Loan Market franchise, began testing a new app called Ezidox. Produced by Lakeba, it allows customers to upload documents quickly and easily.

The app lists the documents that need to be uploaded and both sides can see a progress bar of what has been completed. The broker can then set deadlines and reminders, so the app notifies the customer with what to do next, rather than the broker following up.

Desmond said, One of the biggest pain points in mortgage broking, which customers hate, is giving documents and brokers going back and forth asking for paperwork. The classic example would be bank statements.

I was having that challenge, I was chasing documents, following up with customers, bank statements were getting missed out, documents were not clear, but this app solves all of that.

Youre putting the ownership of collecting the documents in the hands of the customer again and giving them that ability so they dont have to go to a printer or get a pdf.

Most pay slips are electronic these days, very few youll come across where pay slips are not electronic. You can download the pay slip from your payroll and just attach it. If Ive asked for six months bank statements, they click on that link and it will tell you to choose your bank. Then it will bring it up as a simple one page window and you just have to tick the accounts.

Im becoming more efficient in getting time back to my business and doing the tasks that generate more income for me rather than following up with the customer Ive already chased once.

He also said the app is perfect for getting his brand out there and as a one man band, this was vital.

He added, The app is heavily branded, its got my face, its got all the awards that Ive won and that just builds trust with the customer.

Its all personalised. That was really crucial to me, I didnt want ezidox, I wanted to showcase my face. Its extraordinary, the customer logs in and says well, this guy must be someone.

It cant get any smaller than this, but when my customer looks at it, they dont think that. They think this guy must be somebody big.

Most of my business comes from referrals, but you do get those customers that want that social proof and to know theyre dealing with the best in the business.

This is the problem with our industry, brokers are waiting for others to do it for them. Theyre saying, my aggregators software is not enough, or its not great, theyre not doing this, some other aggregators have got this great thing happening. Just make it happen. Its your business. No ones going to do it for you.

Ezidox allows customers to upload text, images or pdfs and the template forms built in the app, such as for PYAG or tax documents, are designed to make the process even faster at the broker end, as the forms are all pre-populated from the initial login by the customer.

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New broker tool to help with borrower informationA SHORT HISTORY OF DRUNKENNESS How, Why, Where, and When Humankind Has Gotten Merry From the Stone Age to the Present Mark Forsyth Three Rivers Press 243 pages; $18 The pleasure of the micro-history is the chance to view the complex chaos of the past through a narrow lens. In A Short History of Drunkenness, Mark Forsyth takes the tendency to endearing extremes: The very origin of the species, he reports, comes down to our love for hooch. The first primates that swung down from the forest canopy may have been in search of fermented fruit, kick-starting evolution. ...Boeing Cos Dreamliner is poised to win an order from Vistara, the Indian affiliate of Singapore Airlines Ltd, dealing a blow to Airbus SEs competing A330neo, according to people familiar with the development. Vistara opted for six 787s with an option to buy four more, according to the people, who asked not to be identified as the information isnt public.

Vistara is considering between the 787-9 and the 787-10 version, which could fly non-stop to European destinations such as London, said one of the people. The most expensive model of the Dreamliner has a ...Dear Reader,

Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance.

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Digital EditorMinister of State for External Affairs VK Singh on Sunday asked the workers to maximise the use of the NaMo app, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official mobile application, and publicise it among people.

Speaking at a party programme in Udaipur, Singh said that the app was useful and people could get information and updates about the government's work through it.

The minister said that the party should reach out to the masses, tell them about the work done by the and encourage the use of the

If such efforts are made, there will be no problem in forming the state again in the next elections, Singh said.

Rajasthan is among the three BJP-ruled states which go to polls later this year.

The other two are Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.Ceasefire, dialogue offer opportunity to save J-K from bloodshed: Mehbooba Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from "bloodshed", Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day.

The people of Kashmir and the leadership here have to decide on the opportunity provided by the Centre in terms of the unilateral ceasefire, which stopped the bloodshed here, and then the readiness for dialogue, how we ...Till as recently as 2005, if you developed any kind of heart ailment in the state of Uttarakhand, you had to take a trip down to Delhi to get any kind of treatment. There was no set up of testing or treating any heart problems in the entire state.

In 2011, when the Uttarakhand government signed a memorandum of understanding for a public private partnership (PPP) with Fortis Escorts (Escorts hospital in Delhi had been bought by Fortis), things changed. Under the agreement, the government owned Coronation hospital provided the space for the heart centre and Fortis had to invest in the ...The accused, among whom were former bankers and employees of a finance company, had placed their own photographs on others Aadhaar cards to secure bank loans, and were booked for cheating, fraud, forgery and criminal conspiracy under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. This is just one among the 73 incidents of misuse of the Unique Identity Authority of Indias (UIDAI) Aadhaar programme that have been ...

Dear Reader,

Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance.

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As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed.



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Digital EditorIn what is being seen as a corroboration of the general sentiment that Tamil Nadu is losing out to other states in attracting investments, data shows that there has been a downtrend in the value of proposals in the state the past few years. The exception was the year 2015, when the State held a Global Investors' Meet (GIM).

Tamil Nadu was at the bottom in terms of value of investment intentions, among the four major industrial states in the south during 2017, according to the data available from Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry. For the year ended 2017, investment intentions in ...All commitments made so far in talks with the US over trade will be withdrawn if President Donald Trump carries out his threat to impose tariffs, China said Sunday While both sides reported some progress in discussions this weekend about how to reduce Chinas $375 billion goods-trade surplus with the US, Trumps revival last week of a plan to slap tariffs on $50 billion of Chinese imports has cast the talks into turmoil. If the US rolls out trade measures including tariffs, all the agreements reached in the negotiations wont take effect, ...

Dear Reader,

Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance.

We, however, have a request.



As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed.



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Digital Editorhas lifted 68 million people out of poverty in the last five years since came to power in 2013, official media reported on Sunday.

Over 68 million people have been lifted over the poverty line -- per capita annual income of 2,300 yuan (USD 361) -- in the past five years, with an average of 13 million each year, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

At the end of 2017, had 30.46 million poor residents. aims to eradicate absolute poverty by 2020, roughly 10 million each year, the report said.

During the past five years, the average annual income of rural residents in impoverished areas has risen 10.4 per cent each year, up 2.5 percentage points above the average for rural residents.

About 3.4 million impoverished population has moved into new homes since 2012, and houses of more than 6 million poor population have been renovated, it said.

China's poverty rate has dropped from 10.2 per cent in 2012 to 3.1 per cent in 2017, becoming the first country to complete the Millennium Development Goals



With Xi in charge, China's poverty-relief battle, the world's biggest and toughest, has made decisive progress and provides global poverty relief with Chinese wisdom and solutions, the Xinhua report said yesterday.

The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) reviewed a plan on Thursday on continued efforts in poverty alleviation.

Presided over by Xi, the meeting stressed that the battle against poverty is one of the "three tough battles" that the country must win to build a moderately prosperous society by 2020.

To achieve the goal, China needs to lift around 30 million poor rural residents out of poverty in the next three years.

"We must be aware of the difficulties and challenges in winning the battle, and must have a stronger sense of responsibility and urgency in poverty relief," it quoted a statement released after the meeting.

A total of 2.74 million impoverished families saw their income increased thanks to e-commerce poverty relief programmes in the past five years, and 23,000 impoverished villages have benefited from tourism programmes.

Nevertheless, in the eyes of Liu Yongfu, director of the State Council Leading Group Office of Poverty Alleviation and Development, the poverty relief task was still arduous.

The work will shift to areas hit the hardest by poverty, put more emphasis on quality, and be more targeted and precise, Liu said.

"We will work to foster local industries, create new jobs, relocate residents in poor areas...and strengthen aid to the aged, the disabled and people who are seriously ill," Xinhua quoted him as saying.

As per the official data, China has lifted more than 600 million people out of poverty in the last three decades, accounting for about 70 percent of those brought out of poverty worldwide.Suspected Islamic State (IS) terrorists on Saturday shot dead at least 12 members of a family in an ambush in Saladin province of northern Iraq, according to an Iraqi security official.

The official, Lieutenant Numan al-Jabouri, told Anadolu News Agency that the terrorists barged into a house and killed all the 12 people in al-Farhatiah town.

He further said that the among the deceased, several of them were women and children. The motive behind the attack is yet to be known and an investigation on the same is underway.

The IS has not reacted to the attack and is yet to claim responsibility so far.

In December, Iraq declared victory over the IS, which had seized control of nearly a third of the country in 2014.

However, the security forces still conduct operations against what they call as "sleeper cells" of the group in the country.

It is to be noted that in April, an Iraq court sentenced 19 women from Russia to life imprisonment after they were found "joining and supporting" the IS.

According to experts, there are nearly 20,000 people, who are behind bars for their alleged involvement with the terror group. However, the Iraqi government has not released the official figures yet.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)At least 16 Taliban militants were killed in a clash with Afghan's National Directorate of Security (NDS) forces in the war-torn country's western Farah province.

Additionally, nine other militants were wounded; Afghan's TOLO News reported quoting the statement issued by the NDS late Saturday.

According to the statement, the clashes took place after a convoy of NDS forces was ambushed by the Taliban militants.

No group has taken responsibility for the attack so far.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The fourth grenade attack that took place in Srinagar's Mominabad-Batamaloo area was in real a tyre burst, the police clarified on Saturday.

After complete verification, the police said it was perhaps a tyre blast and not a grenade attack by the terrorists in Mominabad-Batamaloo area.

Earlier it was reported that the fourth grenade attack took place within a span of around four hours in Srinagar.

Terrorists lobbed a grenade in Mominabad-Batamaloo here, less than an hour after a grenade was lobbed at Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Magarmal Bagh area.

The second attack was reported when a grenade was lobbed at a CRPF deployment at Badshah Bridge in Srinagar, injuring one jawan.

"A total of six CRPF personals were deployed when the incident took place. The terrorists who were in an auto threw the grenade targeting the rear wheel of the CRPF vehicle. One personnel of 132 Battalion sustained splinter injury on his back and was immediately admitted to a local hospital," an official said.

The first attack took place when the terrorists hurled a grenade at CRPF 82 Battalion in Fateh Kadal's Chinkral Mohalla area, injuring three CRPF personnel and one civilian.

The injured are out of danger and their condition is stable.

A series of grenade attacks have taken place in the valley in the last 10 days.

On May 23, six civilians were injured in the grenade attack at Bijbehara town of Anantnag district. Two days later, two policemen and a civilian were injured in a similar attack at a bus stand on Jammu's B.C. road.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actress Swara Bhaskar, who was slammed by Pakistani actress Urwa Hocane and others on social media for calling Pakistan a "failing state", has taken a stand for herself and quipped that the peace between India and Pakistan is on the horizon.

"Looks like Indo-Pak peace is on the horizon," Swara tweeted alongside a snapshot of a comment from an Indian fan, who said that "the people in India also didn't like the actress' words about Pakistan".

In another post, Swara said she is happy being the enemy if it brings the "bickering neighbours" together.

"Dushman (enemy) ka dushman dost (friend)! I'm totally okay with being the dushman in this case if it brings some dosti to us bickering neighbours. Peace and love guys," she wrote.

Swara's latest comments come after Hocane slammed her in a series of posts over the micro-blogging site.

"Pakistan is the country that you, Swara Bhaskar, referred to, in 2015, as the 'best country you have ever visited', and it has only gotten better in the last few years in every aspect along with when it comes to having bigger hearts and welcoming our guest," Urwa tweeted on Saturday night.

"While you're on this spree of empowering women, I must say you've become a bitter person. And all of this is odd coming from a citizen of a state that bans their own films i.e. 'Padmaavat'. So, let's not talk about women empowerment.

"This only reflects on you as an ignorant person, who is also quiet contradictory in her own statements. It's not a failing state for sure, but you come across as a 'Failing Human Being'," Urwa added.

She concluded her post saying, "From the citizen of the Phenomenal Pakistan."

All this started, after the video of an interview went viral on social media in which Swara talked about the recent ban in Pakistan on her new film 'Veere Di Wedding', which also stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor and Shikha Talsania.

"They're (Pakistan) a non-secular state. I'm not surprised at all. Why should we hold up Pakistan, which is a failing state - I don't understand why we keep taking pleasure and feeling a sense of self-worth from all the silly things that happen in Pakistan," Swara said.

"Apologies to all my Pakistani friends right now. Rest assured, Pakistanis have way worse vocabulary than we do. I know," she added.

'Veere Di Wedding', which released in India on June 1, was banned in Pakistan over vulgar language and objectionable sexual dialogues.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Saturday asked all the state governments, including the state of Jammu and Kashmir, to again take all necessary steps to prevent the entry of illegal migrants, including Rohingyas from Myanmar.

In a letter sent to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Bharat Bhushan Vyas and to the other state governments, Anuj Sharma, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, called on them to "kindly review this matter (of the entry of illegal migrants) and issue instructions to take necessary steps and share updated information in the prescribed form .. as soon as possible.."

In particular, the Home Ministry expressed its serious concern over Rohingyas and other foreigners who have already entered and are illegally staying in India, including in Jammu and Kashmir.

The letter from the ministry said, "Such illegal migrations poses serious challenges and has security implications since some of the migrants have been found to have indulged in illegal activities and are vulnerable to radicalization."

It further states, "It has been brought to the notice of the Government that some of the Rohingyas/foreigners are involved in crimes, anti-national activities, money laundering, procuring fake/fabricated Indian documents; and some of them have illegally and fraudulently obtained Indian identity documents e.g. Pan Card, Voter Card, etc."

"Most of these persons have entered India illegally, and many of them have taken (the) help of organised groups of touts and agents," the letter added.

The Home Ministry's letter said that five detailed steps/instructions have been issued to all states from time-to-time for taking action against those Rohingyas/foreigners who have entered and are staying in India illegally.

These were as follows:

. Restrict them to specified identified locations and their activities/movements be strictly watched by State Police/Intelligence Agencies.

. Each one of them must be identified, personal particulars (name, date of birth, sex, place of birth, father/mother names, address in Myanmar/some other country, nationality, etc. may be captured and got signed by such illegal migrant/their guardian.

. Biometrics of illegal migrants, including Rohingyas be captured to ensure unique identification/de-duplication and to prevent impersonation in future. FRO must coordinate with UIDAI to ensure that no Aadhar Card other documents are issued to Rohingya immigrants, which may later help them in claiming to be Indian citizens.

.The personal particular forms/identity documents of such Rohingyas/foreigners to be shared with the Government of Myanmar through MEA for their nationality verification, issue of travel documents and repatriation to Myanmar.

. Keep a watch on their movement and activities and ensure action for their repatriation/deportation as per Law/Policy/Instructions.

The Home Ministry reminded the Government of Jammu and Kashmir of its letter of October 12, 2017, wherein the prescribed form for incorporating the personal details of Rohingyas/foreigners has been issued.

Saturday's letter comes almost six months after Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh appealed to all states to be vigilant on this issue.

He called upon states to be cautious and not allow any form of illegal migration to take place from across the border.

It is estimated that there are about 40,000 Rohingyas residing in India.

In January this year, the Centre told the Supreme Court that India could not become the "Refugee Capital of the World". The apex court was then hearing a petition of two Rohingya refugees who were demanding Indian citizenship and other rights.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Professor Sanjeev Srivastava whose dancing video went viral on social media, has been appointed as the brand ambassador by Vidisha Municipal Corporation.

Sanjeev Srivastava, 46, is an electronics professor who stormed the social media after his dancing videos from a wedding went viral.

The 46-year-old professor said that he is a die-hard fan of actor Govinda.

In the video, Srivastava, who has been rechristened by netizens as 'Dancing Uncle', could be seen dancing to Govinda's chartbuster song-- "Aap Ke Aa Jane Se" from the 1987 movie Khudgarz.

Talking to ANI, a very elated Srivastava shared his amazement on the sudden fame.

The middle-aged dancing uncle said, "This is an unreal feeling. I can't believe my dance video has gone viral. I thank everyone for the love and support. I have been dancing since 1982 and my idol is Govinda ji. Now I hope to get more opportunities."

"It is a big thing for me that so many people have liked me, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart. I am extremely happy that people like Raveena Tandon, our chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan have liked my dance. I have learnt to dance from my mother and Govinda is my role model."

Srivastava has garnered so much popularity that Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister took to Twitter to praise Srivastava's electric performance. The chief minister said, "Professor Shri Sanjeev Shrivastav ji, who has been working in Bhopal, has created massive sensation over the internet in the whole of India. Believe it or not, there is something special in the water of Madhya Pradesh.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei set 7 conditions for the European nations in case they want Tehran to keep the 2015 Iran nuclear deal intact.

This comes after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the US will "crush" Iran with military pressure and by imposing sanctions till the time it changes its behaviour in the Middle East.

Pompeo also said the US will monitor Tehran's regional activities, restrict its influence in the Middle East and ensure that it never acquires a nuclear weapon.

Amid the economic sanctions imposed by the US on Iran, he also urged the European banks to safeguard trade with Iran, as per Sputnik.

In a tweet, Khamenei accused Germany, France and the United Kingdom for staying silent when the United States violated the 2015 agreement.

"Europe must confront imposition of any sanctions on the Islamic Republic and stand firmly against US's sanctions on Iran," he tweeted.

On May 8, US President Donald Trump announced the Washington withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or the Iran nuclear deal which limited the country's uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief.

The Iran nuclear deal was signed between six countries in 2015 - Iran, US, Britain, Germany, Russia, France and China for lifting economic sanctions on Tehran in exchange for limitations to the country's nuclear programme.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress party on Sunday submitted evidence to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the alleged irregularities in the voter roll in Madhya Pradesh.

Congress chief for Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath said they have provided evidence for approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list.

"We have provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 Lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. These names have been deliberately registered in the list. This is not administrative negligence, but administrative misuse," Kamal Nath.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) behind it and said, "This has been done by the BJP. How is it possible that population increased by 24 percent in 10 years but the number of voters increased by 40 percent? We scrutinized list in all constituencies, one voter is registered in 26 lists, there are similar cases in other places too."

Earlier in February also, the Congress party had complained to the Election Commission about discrepancies in the Madhya Pradesh voter's list and asking it take steps for ensuring free and fair elections.

In April, State's chief electoral officer Salina Singh said that six lakh names were removed from Madhya Pradesh voter list.

Talking to ANI, Singh said that the commission is getting the update from the district collectors and the list is being updated.

Madhya Pradesh will go to polls this year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Janata Dal (United) spokesperson Ajay Alok on Sunday said that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is the face of Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar.

He also clarified that there is no confusion in the party regarding seat sharing.

"There is no confusion in JD(U) regarding seat sharing. We used to contest on 25 seats and BJP on 15 seats. Now more allies have joined us so all top leaders will decide about the seat sharing," Alok told ANI.

"Nitish Kumar is the face of NDA alliance in Bihar," he said after party's core committee meeting held here today.

Ahead of a meeting of the NDA scheduled later this week, the JD(U) core committee met in Patna today and the meeting was held by party president Nitish Kumar at his residence.

The Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP)-led NDA is scheduled to hold a meeting in Bihar on June 7.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pakistan's Supreme Court on Sunday summoned former chief minister of the country's Punjab province Shehbaz Sharif in connection with the case pertaining to corruption in 56 public sector companies.

A two-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar resumed hearing of a suo motu case, reported Geo TV.

"Shehbaz Sharif should appear in person and explain how government officials were hired on such high incomes," CJP Mian Saqib Nisar remarked.

In response to this, attorney general Punjab maintaining the innocence of Shehbaz, said that the former Chief Minister did not have any role in the companies.

According to the report, the top judge is said to have observed "Not even a fly flies without his [Shehbaz] order in the province. Please ask your chief minister where he is and when he will appear before the court."

Ordering National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to estimate the wealth of chief executive officers of six companies, the court said, "Please investigate how much property these officials own, so that nation's money can be returned to it."

The NAB had initiated an inquiry into multiple charges against the 56 public limited companies last year in November.

On April 28, the Supreme Court had ordered the heads of 56 public companies, which are being investigated over a corruption probe, to draw salaries as per their pay scale.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In the backdrop of cross-border firing by Pakistan along the International Border in the Jammu region, Jammu And Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta termed Pakistan as a "cowardly nation".

"Pakistan is a cowardly nation which cannot be trusted. We condemn repeated ceasefire violations by them. We had said that we will not shoot a bullet but will give befitting reply if bullets come from their side," he told media here.

Two Border Security Force (BSF) soldiers, Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey and Assistant sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav were killed and 13 civilians injured after heavy shelling by Pakistan in the wee hours of Sunday morning.

Post the incident, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti called for Director General of Military Operations-level talks between India and Pakistan and said the "bloodshed" must be brought to an end.

Meanwhile, Jammu Inspector General of Police (IGP) SD Singh said the armed forces, civil administration and police are "fully equipped to handle Pakistan."

On May 30, DGMOs of India and Pakistan had agreed to fully implement the ceasefire understanding of 2003 to ensure that ceasefire will not be violated by either side.

Both the DGMOs reviewed the prevailing situation along the Line of Control and International Boundary in Jammu and Kashmir, according to an official statement.

It was also mutually agreed that in case of any issue, restraint will be exercised and the matter will be resolved through utilisation of existing mechanisms of Hotline Contacts and Border Flag Meetings at Local Commanders' Level.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Spain's Socialist leader Pedro Sanchez has been sworn in as the new Prime Minister of the country by King Felipe after the ousting of conservative Mariano Rajoy.

"I promise by my conscience and honor to faithfully fulfill the obligations of the office of President of the Government with loyalty to the King, and to keep and enforce the Constitution as the fundamental norm of the State," CNN quoted Sanchez, as saying.

Sanchez, who leads the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party and reportedly is an atheist, has become the first Spanish Prime Minister to be sworn in without a Bible or crucifix, according to the party.

Rajoy is said to have been present at the ceremony.

The new Prime Minister faces significant challenges and an uphill battle as he assumes office.

Last year, Spain was hit by the Catalan independence crisis, which remains unresolved yet. Spaniards are plagued by high unemployment and the effects of the financial crisis.

The 46-year-old former economics professor has promised to address the "pressing social needs" of citizens.

According to the report, Sanchez will work on his Cabinet this weekend and is likely to name them next week.

His own party holds only 84 seats in the 350-seat chamber and secured support for the no-confidence motion from a number of other parties in parliament, according to several media reports.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sent a warm greeting to former defence minister and Rajya Sabha MP George Fernandes on his 88th birthday.

The Prime Minister took to his Twitter handle to praise Fernandes for his historic role in preserving India's democracy.

"Greetings to Mr. George Fernandes on his birthday. Generations of Indians will remain grateful to George Saheb for his historic role in preserving India's democracy. A people's person, he distinguished himself as a capable administrator. I pray for George Saheb's good health," he tweeted.

Fernandes is a politician, Indian trade unionist, journalist, agriculturist, and member of Rajya Sabha from Bihar.

He was a key member of the Janata Dal and has held several ministerial portfolios including communications, industry, railways, and defence.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended greeting to Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president M Karunanidhi on his 95th birth anniversary.

The Prime Minister took to Twitter to wish the DMK leader and prayed for his long and healthy life.

"Best wishes to Kalaignar M.Karunanidhi Ji on his birthday. A prolific writer, poet, thinker and orator, Karunanidhi Ji is one of India's senior-most political leaders. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life. @kalaignar89," the Prime Minister tweeted.

Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also wished the DMK chief and tweeted, "Warmest birthday greetings to M Karunanidhi @kalaignar89 Ji. I pray for your good health and happiness."

Newly elected Karnataka Chief Minister, HD Kumaraswamy also extended his wishes to Karunanidhi on the micro-blogging site.

The DMK leader also met the party workers, who gathered outside his residence in Gopalapuram to celebrate the day.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union Minister for Human Resource Development Prakash Javadekar on Saturday said that 'political murder' has no place in a democracy.

Javadekar alleged that murder of his party workers in West Bengal's Purulia district are political murders.

"It's a political murder. So far, 19 BJP workers have been killed. The recent killings in West Bengal are inhuman. We condemn this brutal political murder and the murder culture. The people of West Bengal will teach a lesson to those who indulge in such acts. Political murder has no place in a democracy," Javadekar said while briefing media in Kolkata.

On Saturday, the body of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker, Dulal Kumar, who went missing on Friday, was found hanging from a pole in Balarampur of Purulia district.

This comes a week after the body of another BJP activist, Trilochan Mahato, was found hanging from a tree in the same district on May 30.

As per the West Bengal police, the investigation into the death of Kumar was handed over to the Crime Investigation Department (CID).

Earlier, Union Minister for Textiles Smriti Irani had accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of indulging in targeted killings of the Bharatiya Janata Party workers in West Bengal.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The workers of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) vandalised a party office here on Saturday.

The PTI workers broke into the premises of the Insaf House and smashed down doors and shattered windows. They also wrote on the walls of the party office which read - 'Karachi president usurping seats of candidates unacceptable PS-102' and 'Go Arif Alvi Go', Geo News reported.

The workers were unhappy with PTI chief Imran Khan's decision to field Firdous Shamim Naqvi as the candidate to contest from PS-102 in Karachi.

Local police later arrived at the scene and was not allowed inside the Insaf House by the party officials, according to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gulshan-e-Iqbal.

He added that the scuffle broke out due to an internal matter within PTI.

It has been learnt that Imran will contest from the NA-243 constituency in Karachi for the upcoming general elections, according to the report.

Hence, other PTI leaders are keen to contest the polls in provincial assembly constituencies (PS-101 and PS-102) along with Imran.

Taking cognizance of the incident, the local party leadership has said that it will take strict disciplinary action against the workers who were involved in the incident.

Pakistan will go to polls on July 25. For the time being, the country is governed by an interim government headed by former Pakistan Chief Justice Nasir-ul-Mulk, who was sworn-in on Friday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The family of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker Dulal Kumar, whose body was found hanging from a pole in West Bengal's Purulia district on Saturday, said the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) was responsible for Kumar's death.

"Police came and said that it was suicide, but it was not suicide. How can it be suicide when there was no problem in his (Dulal's) life? He was not indebted to anyone, and everything was there in his life. Why would he commit suicide? He was killed by TMC people after repeated threats," Dulal's father Mahavir Kumar told ANI.

Echoing a similar opinion, Dulal's father-in-law Genesh Kumar claimed that his son-in-law was murdered by TMC workers, who then hanged his body from a pole.

The body of Dulal, who went missing on Friday, was found hanging from a pole in Balarampur of Purulia district.

The incident surfaced a week after the body of another BJP activist, Trilochan Mahato, was found hanging from a tree in the same district on May 30.

While police cited suicide as the cause of Dulal's death in the postmortem report, BJP leaders, like the victim's family, have held the TMC responsible for the incident.

Union Textile Minister Smriti Irani slammed the TMC-led West Bengal Government for failing to maintain law and order in the state.

"The ruling party in West Bengal is a part of a 'consolidated opposition' which is fighting against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As a result, they're indulging in targeted killings of BJP workers. The TMC government has failed to maintain law and order and isn't able to deliver justice to families of victims," she said.

Moreover, Union Minister for Human Resource Development Prakash Javadekar equated the alleged murder of BJP workers in Purulia to a 'political murder'.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday met a doctor, HS Trivedi and a retired Army Officer, HS Bedi in Bhopal as part of 'Sampark for Samarthan' initiative.

Sampark for Samarthan (Contact for Support) initiative was launched by BJP chief Amit Shah on May 30 to reach out to people and generate awareness about Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Democratic Alliance government's achievements in the last four years.

Highlighting the achievements of Modi government, the Chief Minister said, "Today India is a power, who is inspiring the world and all this is happening under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The development is underway in all sections like security, benefits for farmers, infrastructure, etc."

Eyeing 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Shah will reach out to 50 people personally with details of initiatives and achievements of the government, whereas each BJP worker will contact at least 10 people.

There will also be a special session of 'Sampark for Samarthan' on the NaMo App.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two days after a fire broke out here in Scindia House, the Income Tax (I-T) Department on Sunday clarified that records/documents relating to the investigation of the Punjab Bank (PNB) scam are intact.

The clarification comes after media reports suggested that documents/records related to the multi-million dollar scam involving noted jewellery designer Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi had been destroyed in the blaze.

"News reports appearing in some sections of media alleging that records/documents relating to the investigation of Nirav Modi/Mehul Choksi have been destroyed in the Scindia House fire in IT Office, Mumbai are completely false and misdirected," the I-T Department tweeted.

In a second tweet, the department said all paperwork in the ongoing investigation of the aforementioned case had already been transferred to assessment units housed in other buildings as part of the assessment process.

A Level 3 fire broke out in Scindia House, which houses offices of the IT department, at around 4 pm on Friday.

According to witnesses, five people were found stranded on the terrace area, who were later rescued by firefighters.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)One terrorist was killed after security forces foiled an infiltration bid in Jammu and Kashmir's Keran sector on Sunday, according to sources.

This comes around eight days after five terrorists were gunned down post a failed infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar sector.

Last week, Chief of Army Staff General Bipin Rawat called upon Pakistan to stop infiltration to establish peace along the border.

"We want peace at borders but as you know Pakistan continuously violates ceasefire that causes loss of life and property and in such a case we have to retaliate but if Pakistan wants peace, we expect them to take initiative, which will start with them stopping infiltration," he said.

The acts of terrorism and ceasefire violation are continuing to take place despite the Centre's order, calling for the suspension of security operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan. The Union home ministry, however, had clarified that the security forces "reserve the right to retaliate if attacked or if essential to protect the lives of innocent people.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)United States President Donald Trump is set to host an iftar dinner at the White House next week to celebrate the holy month of Ramzan.

According to a White House official, the iftar dinner is scheduled to be held on June 13. A guest list was, however, not made available by the office, according to Politico.

Muslims around the fast from sunrise to sunset and break their fast with an evening meal known as iftar.

This is the first time Trump will be hosting the dinner after the White House did not hold the ceremony last year, breaking a long-established tradition.

Other former US Presidents such as Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton have hosted the iftar dinner, as per the report.

Last month, Trump issued a statement marking the start of Ramzan as saying, "Ramadan reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry of American life."

Trump reportedly has an uneasy relationship with the Muslims. After he came to power as the US President last year, Trump called for a "total and complete ban" on all Muslims entering the country.

He cited them as refugees and terrorists, inviting a massive backlash from people all over the

Trump had even signed an executive order banning Muslims from several countries such as Iran, Iraq and Syria from entering the US.

Since May 17, Muslims around the globe are observing a rigorous month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.

Considered as the holiest month, Ramzan is also observed as a month of doing good deeds and abstaining from sinful deeds.

Eid-ul-Fitr will mark the end of Ramzan, on June 14 or June 15, depending upon the visual sightings of the crescent moon.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)At least six militants were killed and several others injured as Pakistani soldiers retaliated against cross-border attacks by militants from the Afghan side on Sunday, the Pakistani Army said.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said that the militants attacked Pakistani security personnel who were busy in border fencing in the country' southwest Balochistan and northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.

"Taking advantage of ungoverned spaces and facilitation inside Afghanistan, terrorists resorting to such attacks to prevent fencing and construction of border posts," said the statement.

Five soldiers including four from paramilitary troops Frontier Corps and one from Pakistan air force sustained injuries in the attack, the statement added.

Identities of the killed militants were not revealed.

Pakistan is investing heavily to construct a chain-link fence at its over 2,000-km-long border with Afghanistan, in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces to restrict the penetration of militants into Pakistani territory from Afghanistan.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Veteran actor Anupam Kher pulled actress Juhi Chawla's leg on social media, asking her to send him mangoes just like she did for megastar Amitabh Bachchan for his film "102 Not Out".

To express his gratitude, Amitabh had sent Juhi a handwritten note in Hindi, which Juhi could not understand.

After receiving the letter, Juhi took its photograph and posted it on Twitter on Saturday, saying: "Amitji this is beautifully written... I love it par kya likha hai (but what does it say)?"

This caught Anupam's attention.

Anupam said: "This is what Amitabhji has written - 'Thank you for the mango carton. Loads of love to your family and you'. Now please send me a carton as well."

In response, on Sunday, Juhi wrote: "Aap toh kalakaar nikle. Zaroor. peti toh banti hai. peti is on the way (You are very talented! This deserves a mango carton. It is on the way to your home)."

On the work front, Anupam will next be seen in debutante director Vijay Ratnakar Gutte's drama titled "The Accidental Prime Minister".

-*-

Sumeet Vyas ecstatic over praise for role in 'Veere Di Wedding'

Actor Sumeet Vyas says he feels fortunate for getting the opportunity to work in the multi-starrer "Veere Di Wedding".

The film, which features Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, Swara Bhasker and Shikha Talsania, is a female buddy comedy film directed by Shashanka Ghosh.

"The response to 'Veere...' has been phenomenal. I'm getting calls from the US, Canada, the UK and of course from all over India. I feel fortunate to have received this opportunity," Sumeet said in a statement.

"In Rajasthan, the film is doing very well, particularly in my hometown Jodhpur. People back home are really appreciative of my work, and I'm genuinely thankful to them for always showing support," he added.

"Veere Di Wedding" opened in India on Friday and raked in Rs 10.70 crore on the first day of its release.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Megastar Amitabh Bachchan shared a heart-warming black and white photograph showing him and his actress wife Jaya on the occasion of their 45th wedding anniversary on Sunday. But the couple won't be celebrating the day together as Jaya is travelling.

On Sunday, Amitabh shared an old photograph of himself with wife Jaya and thanked individuals who sent flowers and wished the couple on Twitter and Instagram.

He wrote: "The flowers and wishes adorn the house ... our wedding anniversary, June 3, 1973. Now 45 years.

"It is about to chime the bell for midnight, the 3rd of June, time to call the wife who travels and to wish her for the years together. Tomorrow shall be another day... normal for most, special for some. Life shuffles about and continues its long and justifiable journey."

With Mumbai getting its first monsoon shower on Saturday evening, the 75-year-old actor expressed his happiness over the weather but pondered on the condition of the farmers and the homeless.

He posted: "Nature waits for this moment an entire year; as do we for the relief of summer and the gentleness of climate around. But does it bring succour to them that farm and harvest; to them that dwell without roof upon the pavements; to them that work their jobs for earnings on open skies?"

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actress Ileana D'Cruz on Sunday returned to Fiji to keep her promise of visiting the island nation again to experience its natural, cultural and adventurous bounty.

The actress, who has worked in the southern and Hindi film industry, had first visited the country in the Oceania region last year. But it was just earlier this year that she was named the official brand ambassador for Tourism Fiji in India.

"Coming back to Fiji feels like coming home again. I'm really excited about my trip this time. There's a lot of new places and new experience that I will be trying out," Ileana told IANS here.

India is an important potential tourism market for Fiji, which roped in the actress for a year-long association to showcase the destination through her travel and diverse experiences.

While here, she will be exploring different regions including Nadi, Coral Coast, the Mamanuca Islands, Pacific Harbour and Savusavu. Visiting a pearl farm, kayaking, hiking to a waterfall, snorkelling, quad biking and surfing are some of the activities on her itinerary.

She is here to shoot a campaign for the tourism board and is accompanied by beau Andrew Kneebone, an Australian photographer. They were welcomed with the traditional hello, Bula.

It is the beaches, weather and the hospitality in Fiji which attract the "Barfi" and "Raid" actress.

In her previous Instagram posts, Ileana has mentioned more than once that she is happiest by the sea.

While on her way to Fiji, Ileana posted an Instagram story, saying she was "super excited" to be back.

(The writer's trip is at the invitation of Tourism Fiji. Radhika Bhirani can be contacted at radhika.b@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Senior Congress leader S.R. Patil on Sunday resigned as Working President of the party's Karnataka unit, owning moral responsibility for its defeat in the recent assembly election.

"I have resigned from the party post taking up moral responsibility for our losses in the assembly election," Patil told reporters here.

The Congress, which was in power, only won 78 of the 222 seats in the May 12 election.

"I was in-charge of the party's performance in north Karnataka. Had the party won more seats from the region, we would have formed the government independently," said Patil, who is presently in the legislative council.

Of the 90 seats in the state's region, the Congress won only 31.

Patil also claimed that he had sent his resignation to party President Rahul Gandhi by e-mail on May 25, two days after the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S)-Congress coalition government was formed with JD-S leader H.D. Kumaraswamy as Chief Minister and Congress state unit president G. Parameswara as Deputy Chief Minister.

Opposition BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, termed Patil's resignation as the beginning of his party's downfall in the state, where it came to power piggy-riding on the JD-S.

"The downfall of the empire that was built after mocking people's mandate has begun. @IN Karnataka senior leader Sri SR Patil resigns. This is only the beginning of the downfall of power hungry government," BJP Karnataka said on its twitter handle.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Raul Castro, first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) and President Miguel Diaz-Canel have chaired an extraordinary session of the Caribbean nation's parliament to discuss a constitutional reform.

The meeting on Saturday, which took place at Havana's convention centre and off limits to foreign press, began with the presence of 572 of the 605 lawmakers to start the process of drafting a new Constitution to reform the one first approved in 1976, Xinhua reported.

Modifying the text responds to the need of legally accompanying the deep process of economic and social reforms that have taken place in Cuba since 2010 without renouncing socialism as the political model in the country.

In the island, the private sector has flourished, after extensive state control for decades over almost all economic activities, and a new law recognising medium and small private businesses is expected to be approved.

The Council of State, top state institution between parliament sessions, on Friday approved a commission which will draft the new Constitution in a meeting chaired by Diaz-Canel.

The process, which could take months, will later be subject to a massive referendum where more than 9 million Cubans will vote to approve or disapprove the reform.

Other topics that should be included in the reform will be a limit to high government and party posts to two five-year terms.

If approved, current President Diaz-Canel would assume the party leadership in 2021, the year in which Castro concludes his second mandate as first secretary of the PCC for which he was re-elected in its Seventh Congress in April 2016.

At the start of the session lawmakers paid their respects to the victims of the tragic plane crash on May 18 with a minute of silence.

Later, they approved the 10 working commissions of the National Assembly for the next five years which will be responsible for providing input and supervising the constitutional reform process.

Also, parliamentary friendship groups with other countries were approved by lawmakers emphasizing that Cuba's National Assembly will deepen ties with its counterparts of Russia, Vietnam, Iran and China.

The current Cuban Constitution dates back to 1976 and since then it has had three modifications after popular consultation.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Even as we witness an alarming trend where replies by various government departments are subsequently denied outright, a former Central Information Commissioner (CIC) has underlined the fact that providing wrong information to any applicant can invite a penalty and disciplinary action.

"Any Information Officer who wilfully provides wrong or misleading information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act to any application, can be penalised Rs 25,000 by the Commissioner, plus disciplinary action can be recommended against him," former CIC Shailesh Gandhi.

However, the ex-CIC said there may be cases in which the errors are genuine, without mala fide intention, in which case the concerned department must immediately provide an explanation for the lapse as well as the correct information.

Gandhi's comments come at a time when replies are subsequently denied outright -- with at least five such instances that have made nationally in the recent past.

Last November, Western Railway informed activist Anil Galgali that the Mumbai-Ahmedabad rail sector was running at 40 percent below capacity.

The caught national attention as this is the same route on which the Narendra Modi government's prestigious Bullet Train project is planned, raising serious question marks on its viability.

After a furore over the revelation, Indian Railways and personally denied the information, and later claimed that the sector was not only running at 100 per cent capacity but was also profitable.

"By such tactics, fear is instilled among the Information Officers, who try to dodge RTI queries, unsure whether the genuine information provided would be later denied if it proves controversial," Galgali said.

In March 2018, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader raised a stink when he publicised that said over 319,000 rats were killed within a week in Mantralaya, the government headquarters.

Though the hinted at a scam, the government did a somersault to say that they were "misinterpreted" by the former minister Khadse and actually referred to the quantity of zinc phosphide (anti-rodent) tablets needed to eliminate the rat population.

"The original documents are available in the matter, how can the government deny it? It clearly means they are trying to hide something. If they cannot accept their own documents, then better scrap the RTI Act," Khadse said.

The same month (March), Congress created a sensation when he furnished showing the Chief Minister's Office guzzled nearly 18,600 cups of tea daily.

"Later, the government completely reneged on its own RTI replies. This puts tremendous psychological pressure on the poor Information Officer trying to do an honest job. It seems the present BJP government at the Centre and states want to completely destroy the RTI Act," Nirupam said.

In a very recent instance, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) denied its own RTI replies to activist Chandra Shekhar Gaur of Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, pertaining to huge arrears of over Rs 500 billion all over and "write-offs" of over Rs 3,002 crore, claiming these figures were given "erroneously".

"For my single line query, I was barraged with nearly 1,100 replies, right from Principal Commissionerates to block-level officers. Most letters came from registered Speed Post costing over Rs 50 each, meaning they have spent more than Rs 50,000 of taxpayers' money," Gaur said.

He said that his query seeking a consolidated national figure of the arrears and write-offs online, via email, was tossed by the CBDT to all state and local offices, "which is a sheer waste of resources and harassment of the RTI activist".

In an IANS expose on indiscriminate purchase of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in April, the (ECI) contended that the information was provided wrongly, but never came forth with a written explanation.

"I am aware of how government departments try to trample RTI. So I took the precaution of first filing a PIL (Public Interest Litigation) before the based on the RTI replies received so far. Now, the court will decide whether the ECI's replies are true or not," said a grim RTI activist Manoranjan S. Roy, who toiled on the EVMs issue for over a year.

On his part, former CIC Gandhi said there are avenues like appeal or even the courts, but "the tragedy is most commissioners and the courts are anti-RTI" and the whole exercise can be very time-consuming.

"RTI is in a regressionary stage, taken very casually by the government, the Information Commissioners and the courts. It is up to the RTI activists and the media to pursue it relentlessly, continue to name and shame the authorities," Gandhi suggested.

A Neemuch-based RTI activist, Jinendra Surana, realised the futility of appeals the hard way. "An appeal of mine is pending with the CBDT since over three years... They kick it from one department to another and nobody bothers to dispose it off."Johnny Depp fans are concerned about his health after the Hollywood star appeared frail and ill in some of his recent photographs that surfaced online over the weekend.

Depp posed with fans at a Four Seasons hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia, last week, looking visibly thinner than in previous appearances, reports billboard.com.

"I think my hero looks ill," one user commented on Facebook of the shared fan photograph.

Other comments included, "He looks thin" and "F**k me is that Johnny Depp?"

The actor was in Russia for a performance with his band the Hollywood Vampires.

Earlier in the week, Depp posed for fan photos in Moscow, donning sunglasses and a hat. The image also provoked concern in comment sections, where users described the actor as appearing "sick", "weak" and "skinny".

Depp has been in the headlines in the past year due to legal disputes, including one with his former management company. In 2017, Depp also faced divorce proceedings from actress Amber Heard after she accused him of physical abuse.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Nigerian Police said at least 15 people have been killed when unknown gunmen attacked a village in Nigeria's Zamfara state.

Police spokesperson Muhammad Shehu, told reporters in Gusau, the state capital, that the gunmen killed the people in Zakuna village, Xinhua news agency reported.

The gunmen invaded Zakuna in the early hours of Friday and stole cows belonging to villagers, the official said on Saturday, adding that no arrest had been made.

He told reporters that investigation into the matter had commenced.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India stands at a critical threshold on its way to development where a lot depends on the opportunities which allow the cities to grow, Union Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Sunday.

Speaking here at the 'The Knowledge Coalition-Intelligent Conversations', two days ahead of the World Day, he pointed out that the urbanisation process in the country will be a key driver of how much the country can benefit from the "much talked about 'urban transition'".

"... with its cities emerging as the drivers of the national economy, India stands at the threshold of a critical 'moment' in its developmental trajectory where adequate opportunities must be created for cities/towns to grow, flourish and become vibrant centres of investment and productivity," Puri was quoted as saying in a statement issued by his ministry.

The minister also acknowledged the measures pledged by India to reduce its carbon emission for a cleaner and emphasised that all missions under his ministry had a "strong focus on and ecological sustainability".

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Trade activities between India and Bangladesh at Petrapole-Benapole post were disrupted on Sunday after several trucks from India were allegedly set on fire in the neighbouring country, an official said.

"Exports-imports were completely stopped after 1 p.m. at the Petrapole-Benapole border after about six-seven trucks loaded with various goods from India were set on fire in Bangladesh's Benapole," Federation of West Bengal Truck Operators' Association Joint Secretary Sajal Ghosh told IANS.

Truck operators threatened not to enter Bangladesh with goods.

Another Association's Joint Secretary Dilip Das said: "Many goods exported from India were stolen and trucks were torched by miscreants in Bangladesh. We will not enter Bangladesh. Goods will be off-loaded at the no-man's land."

Truck owners also alleged administration in the neighbouring country was not cooperating with them.

Accusing Bangladeshi miscreants of torching the trucks, Petrapole Exports-Imports Welfare Association's President Paritosh Biswas said: "The incident happened in Bangladesh. We cannot lodge any complaints in Bangladesh. We will lodge a complaint to customs authority."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A militant was killed on Sunday on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara as alert troops foiled an infiltration bid, defence sources said. Firing was still on in the area.

Alert troops of the Army noticed suspicious movement near Ustad Post in Keran sector of Kupwara and challenged the infiltrators.

"When challenged, the terrorists fired, triggering a gunfight. One terrorist has been killed in this operation which is still going on," a source said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday said the trend of more youths joining militancy will achieve nothing except increased footprints of the security forces in the state.

Addressing a convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) here, Mehbooba reacted to reports of more young people joining militant ranks.

"The increase in the number of youths picking up the gun will increase the presence of Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the police.

"More the situation improves, the more we can ask the Army, the CRPF and the police to reduce their footprints (in Kashmir)", the Chief Minister said.

Condemning the recent grenade attacks by militants in the Valley, she said: "Despite ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. They do not see that civilians are getting killed, they do not see that Army or CRPF jawans have come from far flung areas for their bread and butter. What will this achieve?

"There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved?" she asked.

She said through peaceful means the People's Democratic Party had been able to persuade the opening of the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad and Poonch-Rawalkote roads.

"If the situation improves, I promise you that we will open more such routes."

Mehbooba made a fervent appeal to Kashmiri separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from further bloodshed and reminded them that the announcement of ceasefire by the Indian government was a step that cannot be expected always.

She said the problem can only be resolved thorough dialogue.

"This time there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre. I request all stakeholders to come forward to save Kashmir."

Mehbooba said it was for the separatists to decide whether the youths of Kashmir should come out of the culture of stones and guns.

She also appealed to New Delhi and Islamabad to start the dialogue process in order to improve the situation since Jammu and Kashmir bears the brunt of strained relations between the two countries.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Individuals are open to companionship with people with disabilities, according to a survey.

Inclov, a matchmaking platform for people with disabilities, conducted a survey among 30,000 people with disabilities and health disorders across 300 cities in India. The participating age group ranged from 18 to 30 years.

The survey found that a majority of 61 per cent of the audience are okay with their partners with or without disability.

It was also highlighted that a majority of the audience, at 61 per cent, are in the age group of 20-30 years followed by 18.1 per cent in the 30-40 age group, showcasing that while the majority of people with disability as an audience set here is millennial, people across age-groups are looking for companionship.

Popular prejudices suggest that people with disabilities are perceived or suggested at living isolated lives, with marriage not on their radar. The data suggests otherwise with a majority of the audience at 78 per cent being single and actively looking for a partner through marriage and dating.

Marriage is indeed a priority for this demographic, with 50 per cent of the community looking actively for marriage followed by 15 per cent looking for friendship and 13.5 per cent looking for dating.

When it comes to lifestyle and socio-economic background, 61.5 per cent still live with their families, while 28.1 per cent live alone.

Shankar Srinivasan, Co-Founder at Inclov, said: "Our core vision as a community has been to create an inclusive platform for people with disabilities to help find companionship amidst positive experiences. Through this survey, we wanted to understand them a bit deeper and help burst some popular myths and prejudices plaguing them.

"We plan to make this a regular endeavour and the track changes and progress so as to serve the community better."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Children born to mothers with greater emotional control and problem-solving abilities are less likely to develop behavioural problems, finds a new study.

The research showed that mothers with high emotional control are less likely to be verbally harsh with their children.

Mothers with higher emotional and cognitive control were less likely to report poor child conduct, such as fighting with other children or throwing tantrums when they don't get what they want.

"When you lose control of your life, that impacts how you parent. That chaos both directly and indirectly influences your child's behaviour," said lead author Ali Crandall, from Brigham Young University in Utah, US.

The study, published in the journal Family Relations, included data from 152 mothers, aged between 21 to 49 years, who had children between 3 to 7 years of age.

The mother's emotional control was measured through a 10-item questionnaire asking how often subjects "have angry outbursts" or "overreact to small problems".

Executive functioning or cognitive control -- what helps people manage chaos and achieve daily goals, and includes planning, problem solving and directing attention to what is most important-- was measured through a series of tasks.

The results showed that mothers with greater cognitive control are less likely to have controlling parenting attitudes.

"There are some clear 'signals' that our supply of self-control is being run down -- when we are feeling distracted, irritable and tired," said co-author Kirby Deater-Deckard from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst.

"Parents can practice recognising these signals in themselves when they are occurring and respond by taking a 'time out' if at all possible -- just as we might do with our children when we notice these signals in them," Deckard added.

Crandall explained that getting enough sleep, exercising and healthy eating habits impact the executive functioning.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Indian Navy on Sunday evacuated 38 stranded Indians from Socotra island in Yemen where they got stuck after a cyclone hit the area 10 days ago, forcing India to launch an operation to rescue them. All are reported to be safe.

The Navy evacuated the Indians as part of operation 'NISTAR' carried out off the coast of Socotra early on Sunday and embarked them at Indian Naval ship INS Sunya to bring them back to India, a Navy spokesperson said.

"INS Sunya pressed into action to evacuate the 38 Indian nationals from Socotra. The evacuated Indians were ... immediately provided with medical care, food, water and telephone facilities to call and reassure their families. All have been reported to be safe. Post evacuation, the ship would be proceeding towards Porbandar," he said.

A severe cyclonic strom Mekenu crossed the Yemeni Island of Socotra on May 24, leaving 38 Indians stranded on the island with limited food and water.

The Navy deployed INS Sunya in Western Arabian Sea for the humanitarian and disaster relief operation just after it received a distress call from the Directorate General of Shipping and the Indian Sailing Vessels Association.

"We got information that three Indian Dhows -- a lateen rigged ship with one or two masts -- at Socotra suffered damages and sank alongside in the harbour after the cyclone hit the area," said the official.

"As we got the inputs about another Dhow, MSV Safina Al Khijar, with 12 Indians on board missing, the Indian Navy undertook two aerial sorties on May 27 and 28 to search for the missing Indians," he added.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju has denied rumours of an attack on a Gurdwara or any Sikh institution in violence-hit Shillong which remained comparatively peaceful on Sunday with security forces relaxing curfew for seven hours in some sensitive areas.

The Minister, however, warned the people of Meghalaya not to believe the false propaganda being spread on social media and ensure that the state government was vigilant in solving issues.

Rijiju's comments came after a Sikh delegation met Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma who denied the reports that a Gurdwara was attacked or damaged in Shillong, and expressed satisfaction that "Sikhs are safe" in the state.

"Beware of rumour-mongers and troublemakers. There was no damage to any Gurdwara or other institutions belonging to the Sikh Minority in Meghalaya. Law and Order situation is under control and the state government is extremely vigilant and settling the case," Rijiju tweeted.

Violence erupted in Shillong on Thursday after an altercation between a driver of the Khasi community employed with the Shillong Public Transport Service and some Punjabi women in Theme lew Mawlong, a Punjabi settlement in Shillong with around 350 households. The violence continued even after the parties involved in the skirmish reached a compromise.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The man found hanging from an electricity tower in West Bengal's Purulia had committed suicide as per the post-mortem examination, police said on Sunday while as life was hit in the district by the 12-hour strike called by the BJP to protest alleged murder of its party workers.

"The body of Dulal Kumar was found hanging from a high-tension tower in Dabha village on yesterday (Saturday).... a case of unnatural death was recorded and post mortem was done," said newly-appointed Purulia Superintendent of Police Akash Magharia said.

"As per the post-mortem report, we have come to know about the cause of death. The doctors have clearly written that the death has occurred due to asphyxia due to hanging, ante-mortem and suicidal in nature," he told reporters.

He said post-mortem was done by a board of five doctors.

Magharia's immediate predecessor Joy Biswas had on Saturday claimed that preliminary investigation suggested the death of Kumar was a case of suicide. Following this statement, Biswas was transferred as commandant of the State Armed Police's 9th Battalion.

However, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, who reached Purulia on Sunday, accused police, the ruling Trinamool Congress and miscreants of "acting together".

The party had called the 12-hour Purulia strike after two of its party workers were allegedly murdered within a span of three days.

"Trinamool, miscreants, mafia and police -- all have become one. It is just the local people who are against them. Lot of people who were Maoists earlier are now working for Trinamool," said BJP leader Sayantan Basu.

"This nexus is proved through these murders," he added.

Claiming that the deceased was a prominent party worker, the BJP blamed the Trinamool and sought a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into it.

The body of 20-year-old BJP worker Trilochan Mahato was also found hanging from a tree in Balarampur area of the same district last week with a message inscribed on the back of his T-shirt, accusing him of supporting the BJP.

The Trinamool has, however, denied its involvement in either of the incidents. The state government has handed over the probe to the CID.

Trinamool' Secretary General Partha Chatterjee said: "BJP leaders have been making false allegation against us and post-mortem report of Kumar proved that."

The twin killings have led to tension in Purulia. The West Bengal BJP held demonstrations, protesting against the killing of their youth activists.

"Law and order situation has been under control. The strike has affected life partially," said an official of Balarampur Police station.

Most shops in the district remained shut. Private vehicles were off the road while state-owned vehicles were plying.

"Few days back (Trinamool leader) Abhishek Banerjee said they want Purulia devoid of any opposition. This message was clear. Two incidents showed what his message meant," said actress and BJP leader Locket Chattopadyay.

The BJP also demanded imposition of President's rule in the state, as party chief Amit Shah alleged that the Mamata Banerjee government had completely failed to maintain law and order.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The government on Sunday said the records related to the investigation into the Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi case were safe as they were transferred out before a fire broke out in the Income Tax Office in Mumbai.

The clarification came following media reports claiming the records were destroyed in the fire.

"News reports have been appearing in some sections of the media alleging that records and documents relating to investigation into the Nirav Modi (and) Mehul Choksi case have been destroyed in the Scindia House fire in Income Tax Office in Mumbai," the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) said in a statement.

"It is hereby clarified that the said reports are completely false and misdirected," it said.

The department further clarified that the documents and records of the ongoing investigations into the case had already been transferred to the assessment units housed in different buildings as part of the assessment process.

"Apprehensions about any loss or damage to the records and documents relating to the Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi case in the said fire at the IT Office are, therefore, misplaced," the statement said.

The Income Tax Department is investigating the over Rs 13,400 crore banking fraud, allegedly committed by diamantaire Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi during 2011-2017.

-IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Reality TV star Scott Disick and model Sofia Richie have reportedly ended their relationship.

Sofia, 19, has broken up with Disick, 35, after the "Keeping Up With the Kardashians" star cheated on her and was subsequently spotted getting cosy with another woman, usmagazine.com quoted a source as saying.

"Sofia and Scott split up," the source said.

"He cheated on her in Miami and she found out and told (her father) Lionel (Richie). He said he is going to cut her off and write her out of his will if she continues her relationship with Scott as he thinks he is extremely toxic for her," the source added.

The source says that the couple were still technically together when the reality TV star was spotted with another girl at rapper Kanye West's party for his new album in Wyoming.

Another source said that Disick was "really sloppy throughout the night" and "could barely speak" when he was seen getting cosy with the mystery blonde.

The couple began dating in 2017 after Disick was linked to a number of women, including actress Bella Thorne. They made their relationship official through Instagram last year.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Sri Lanka's Tourism Minister John Amaratunga held talks with China's tourism and airline officials to encourage more Chinese visitors to the island nation, it was reported on Sunday.

The talks were held during the Minister's visit to Shanghai to promote Sri Lankan Tourism at the Shanghai World Travel Fair, Xinhua news agency quoted the Tourism Ministry as saying in a statement.

China has emerged as one of the leading markets for Sri Lanka's tourism in recent years, with Colombo aiming for at least 1 million Chinese tourists per year by 2020.

According to Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, nearly 100,000 Chinese tourists have visited Sri Lanka till April this year, making China among the three top source countries of international tourists to the island country.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Sri Lanka will soon raise the minimum age for juvenile convictions from the existing eight-year-old to 12-year-old, authorities said on Sunday.

According to Justice Ministry Secretary W. Adikari, children under 12 who were involved in criminal activities were not mature enough to realise the gravity of their crimes, reports Xinhua news agency.

Hence, the government believed there should be a more holistic approach in dealing with juvenile offenders, he said.

The proposed amendment, which will soon be presented in Parliament, specifies that any offence committed by a child under 12 years of age would not be a crime.

The amendment will also provide that in cases where the child is above 12 years and under 14 years of age, the magistrate will have the discretion to determine whether such a child has the required maturity to understand the knowledge of the offence committed.

Along with this, the Sri Lankan Code of Criminal Procedure too would be amended to allow the magistrate to refer the child to a government medical officer for examination and report to the police.

The medical officer would also report whether the child is in need of any therapeutic intervention.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday oversaw preparations for the 11th World Hindi Conference here in the presence of Mauritian Minister of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun.

Sushma Swaraj and Dookun-Luchoomun paid a site visit to the Swami Vivekananda International Convention Centre (SVICC), the main venue of the event to be held in August.

The Indian minister also visited the newly inaugurated building of the World Hindi Secretariat, Phoenix, where she was welcomed by a wide range of Mauritian socio-cultural organizations and Hindi enthusiasts, according to a statement issued by the Indian External Affairs Ministry.

People of Indian origin comprise a major part of the population in this Indian Ocean island nation. Most of them are descendants of indentured labour brought to work here in the 19th and 20th centuries in sugarcane plantations.

Sushma Swaraj arrived here on Saturday on her way to South Africa to attend the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and the IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) ministerial meetings.

During her brief stopover here, she had a dinner meeting with Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth on Saturday at which both sides reviewed preparations for the the World Hindi Conference 2018.

"Noting that India-Mauritius relations are based on age-old ties of kinship and culture, they emphasized the significance of protecting and promoting their own languages, traditions and culture," the statement said.

"Hindi is a shared language and shared heritage of India and Mauritius, and the next World Hindi Conference will help further strengthen the bonds between the two countries."

Jugnauth will be the chief guest in the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, a conclave of the Indian diaspora, to be held in India's Varanasi next year.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The tablet section which disappeared from Google's official Android website is back now, the media reported.

In response to a user on Twitter, Hiroshi Lockheimer, Senior Vice President of Platforms and Ecosystems at Google, replied that the tablet section's removal was just a bug that popped up while updating the website, 9to5google.com reported on Saturday.

"Oops we had a bug when we updated the site. It's back up now. Sorry for the confusion!" Lockheimer tweeted.

What's particularly weird is the fact that the three tablets highlighted on the site are the Nvidia Shield Tablet K1, Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 8.0, and the Sony Xperia Z4 Tablet, the report said.

Despite the lack of demand for Android tablets, there are newer options available for customers to purchase that would be better suited for the site.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Massive wildfires in the US states of California, Colorado and New Mexico have torched thousands of acres and forced hundreds to evacuate their homes, the media reported.

A vegetation fire in Laguna Beach, California, about 50 miles south of Los Angeles, has torched about 250 acres. More than 400 firefighters were fighting the blaze, according to the Orange County Fire Authority.

There was zero percent containment as of Saturday night, reports CNN.

No injuries or damaged structures have been reported in the blaze, dubbed the Aliso Fire, but evacuations are underway in Laguna Beach neighbourhoods, where about 2,000 residents had been evacuated by Saturday.

A blaze known as the 416 Fire in Colorado's La Plata county has burned 1,100 acres, US Forest Service spokesman Jim Mackensen told CNN on Saturday.

The fire, about 15 miles outside the town of Durango, was also zero per cent contained and has forced the evacuations of 1,500 residents, Mackensen said. No structures have been destroyed.

Grass, brush and timber continued to fuel the fire Saturday morning.

A massive fire in Colfax county, New Mexico, grew to 30,000 acres by Saturday night, according to the US Forest Service.

More than 500 personnel were battling the fire.

A mandatory evacuation order was in place for the town of Cimarron, where 296 structures were threatened by the blaze, called the Ute Park Fire.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Tripura's 'Queen' variety pineapples are finally on their way to Dubai with Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Sunday flagging off a one tonne consignment -- the first.

The exquisite variety of fruit, known for being juicy and sweet, was sent on a SpiceJet aircraft via New Delhi.

The private airliner last month signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the state government-run Tripura Horticulture Corp and a Kolkata-based company to facilitate the exports.

Deb, who personally took the initiative to export the pineapple which is famous in India and neighbouring countries, urged the people to grow more pineapples and jackfruits as both are being produced in Tripura with a rich quality due to the climatic condition, soil and the

"Tripura can earn huge foreign money by cultivating bamboo. If the farmers and others cultivate pineapple, jackfruit and bamboo, their economic condition would see a sea change," he said at the function.

The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was keen to double the farmers' income.

A SpiceJet official said that by Wednesday they would carry three tonnes of pineapples to Dubai.

State Agriculture and Tourism Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, who along with other senior officials was present at the function, said the Bharatiya Janata Party-led alliance government's initiative to export the pineapples would encourage the farmers to grow pineapples in newer areas in the state.

"Tripura would be able to supply at least 200 MT best grown pineapples during the current season (May to July). The 'Queen' pineapples being sold in Tripura for Rs 20 per kg would be at least Rs 80 in the Dubai market," the minister added.

Tripura Horticulture Department Director Arun Debbarma said this year pineapples were cultivated in 8,500 hectares of land and the production is expected to be 1.28 MT.

Pineapples are one of the major fruit crops in terms of area and volume of production.

The official said the productivity of pineapples per hectare is 18.73 tonnes which is higher than the national average of 15.80 tonnes.

"Tripura pineapple is organic by default because of climatic and soil condition, besides ecological situations," Debbarma added.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two BSF troopers were killed and 11 others, including 10 civilians, injured on Sunday in heavy shelling and firing by Pakistan Rangers in Jammu and Kashmir's Akhnoor sector, triggering retaliation from the Indian side.

The clashes, which lasted almost eight hours, forced the authorities to shift civilians from border villages in Pargwal and Kanachak sub-sectors to safer places out of the line of fire, with police using bulletproof vehicles in at least 30 villages.

Inspector General of Police S.D.Singh Jamwal said the Pakistani shelling and firing started around 3.30 a.m. and continued till 11.30 a.m.

Pakistani shells landed deep inside the Indian territory in Pargwal and Kanachak sub-sectors.

Assistant Sub-Inspector S.N. Yadav and Constable V.K. Pandey of the Border Security Force (BSF) were killed in the violation of the 2003 truce in Akhnoor sector's Pargwal sub-sector, the police said.

The area affected involved 30 villages and 10 BSF outposts.

"Eleven civilians and a BSF trooper who were injured have been shifted for treatment to the Government Medical College Hospital in Jammu city," a police officer said.

Civilians flocked to the hospital to donate blood for the injured.

Sunday's clashes come just five days after the Director Generals Military Operations (DGMOs) of the two countries agreed to implement the 2003 ceasefire pact earnestly in a bid to ensure peace on both the International Border and the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.

After the clashes halted in Akhnoor sector, residents of over 30 villages came out of their homes to take stock of the losses suffered by their homes, cattle and farm land.

BSF's Inspector General Ram Awtar told reporters that while Pakistan targeted civilian areas, in its retaliation, the BSF did not target any civilian facility on the Pakistan side of the international border.

BSF sources said their firing destroyed 10 posts of Pakistan Rangers.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said it was unfortunate that Pakistan resorted to firing and shelling after agreeing to implement the ceasefire.

"People are dying on both sides of the border... Talks between the two DGMOs must be immediately started to bring calm to the borders," she said.

Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta visited some of the affected villages and also met the injured civilians in the hospital.

Meanwhile, the brother of an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from Jammu and Kashmir is suspected to have joined the militant ranks, informed sources said.

Intelligence sources said that Shams-ul-Haq Mengnoo, belonging to Dragud village of Shopian district and pursuing a course in Unani medicine and surgery (BUMS) in a Srinagar college, was missing since May 26 but his family hasn't approached them to seek his whereabouts.

Mengnoo's brother is serving outside Jammu and Kashmir.

Police sources said if the apprehensions about the youth having joined the militant ranks turn out to be true, all efforts will be made to bring him back to the mainstream.

Also, the Army killed a militant in the LoC's Keran sector on Sunday, officials said.

Authorities also said that two of the five militants killed by the Army last month while trying to sneak into Jammu and Kashmir's Tangdhar sector were identified as locals by their families.

The Army had said that five militants trying to infiltrate the LoC on May 25. While the Army said it recovered huge cache of arms and ammunition from the slain militants, their exact identity had not been established.

Based on photographic evidences, two families from Pulwama and Kulgam districts claimed the two militants were their kin.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two Border Security Force (BSF) troopers were killed and three civilians injured on Sunday in Pakistan shelling and firing on the International Border in Jammu district.

BSF sources said Pakistan Rangers resorted to unprovoked, indiscriminate shelling and firing on the border's Pargwal sub-sector.

"The BSF troopers, a constable and an assistant sub-inspector, were killed in the Pakistani firing and shelling that started at around 3.30 a.m. Our troops retaliated strongly and effectively," the sources said.

"Firing exchanges are still going on."

Besides Pargwal, the Pakistan Rangers also violated ceasefire in Akhnoor sector.

The police said the three injured civilians have been shifted for treatment to the Government Medical College, Jammu.

Sunday's ceasefire violation comes days after the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of the two countries last week agreed to implement the ceasefire pact in an effort to ensure peace on both the International Border and the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two of the five militants killed by the Indian Army last month while trying to sneak into Jammu and Kashmir's Tangdhar sector from Pakistan were on Sunday identified as locals by their families.

The Army had said that the five militants were trying to infiltrate the Line of Control (LoC) when they were killed by troops on May 25.

While the Army said it had recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition from the slain militants, the exact identity of the slain militants had not been established.

The militants were buried by locals who had taken their photographers which were later circulated on social media.

Based on the photographic evidences, two families from Pulwama and Kulgam districts claimed the two were their kin.

One of the militants was identified as Shiraz Ahmad of Lajoora in Pulwama and the other was identified as Mudasir Ahmad of Parigam village in Kulgam district.

Shiraz was missing since September 2017 and Mudasir had gone missing since July 2016.

The families have urged the Jammu and Kashmir Police to exhume the bodies so that they are given a proper burial.

According to the police, the bodies are now likely to be exhumed and DNA tests will be conducted to establish the claim of the families.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The government is worried about the rising fuel prices, Union Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said here on Sunday.

"Along with the people, even we are worried when the price of petrol, diesel, LPG, increases. When our party was in the opposition, we had opposed any hike in petroleum because the price of the crude oil was very low in the world market.

"As far as the current hike is concerned, the Petroleum Minister has clearly said we are working in that direction (to ease it) and that it is a worry," he said in response to a question from the media here.

Naqvi was in Goa as part of the ruling BJP's 'Transforming India' campaign under which senior leaders have fanned out across India to amplify the achievements of four years of the Modi government.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The on Sunday accused the (BJP) of deliberately enrolling approximately 60 lakh fake voters in the voters list to influence the upcoming assembly election.

In a memorandum to the Election Commission of India, the demanded action against the irregularities in the voter rolls.

said they have provided evidence to the EC that there are approximately 60 lakh fake voters in the lists.

Citing figures, Nath questioned, "How is it possible that population had increased by 24 per cent but number of voters had increased by 40 per cent."

Nath said that a voter was existing multiple times in the voters list with different names.

"Why has BJP not complained against these irregularities in the voter rolls? Why has BJP not demanded any inquiry?" the leader asked.

Congress MP accused the BJP of attempting to influence and win the assembly election.

"It is an attempt to destroy democracy," Scindia said, adding "there are 5 crore voters in Madhya Pradesh of whom 12 per cent are fake." He said the difference in vote share between the two parties was just 9 per cent during the last legislative assembly election.

The party has requested the EC to enquire into the irregularities and discrepancies and take strict and prompt action against the erring officials.

The party has sought the removal of all duplicate entries in the electoral rolls of 230 assembly constituencies of Madhya Pradesh and to conduct free and fair elections.

"It is stated that repeated/demographically similar entries of bordering/adjoining assembly segments of bordering states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and are also prevalent and should be duly verified in order to ensure free and fair assembly elections in state of Madhya Pradesh," the memorandum read.In a historic first, the Congress party will have an electoral pact with Mayawatis Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in the upcoming Madhya Pradesh polls. The Congress and BSP are also planning a similar tie-up in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.

Kamal Nath, the newly-appointed Congress chief for MP, confirmed this to The Wire and said he was the one negotiating with Mayawati. The alliance with BSP is done and dusted in principle and the Congress has already got the Gondwana Gantantra Party  which has a tiny hold in eastern MP  on board with the alliance. For the past ...The police here today claimed to have solved a double murder case in Pandarsi village near here by arresting 11 members of a Bawaria gang from different parts of the country.

Superintendent of Police Abhishek Garg told reporters that 11 people, including three women, were arrested from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh following simultaneous raids made by six special teams of the police yesterday.

The raids were made after the gang was identified through technical data and surveillance, he said, adding one of the arrested accused was trying to escape to Nepal.

The modus operandi of the gang-members was to kill the target, commit dacoity and then disperse to far off places, Garg said in a press conference.

He also said after scanning CCTV footage, it was found that 17 members of the gang were involved in the crime.

Arriving in Kurukshetra five days before committing the crime, the gang members conducted a recce of the area and found that Arjun Balmiki (75), Raj Kumar Balmiki (43) and Sandeep Kumar (27) used to sleep inside a temporary barbed boundary wall for keeping a herd of sheep.

The enclosure was far away from the village at an isolated place near the railway track.

The arrested accused have confessed to killing Arjun and Raj Kumar, while seriously injuring Sandeep on May 22 and stealing the sheep, the police officer said.

Garg said the accused would be produced before a court here and police remand would be sought to recover weapon of crime and the stolen sheep.

He said that records of the accused would be investigated to find out their other crimes.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi police today said that it has arrested two foreigners for allegedly running a drug racket in the national capital.

Police identified the accused as Sace Lirbat (33) and Okna Andern (29) both natives of Ivory Coast, a West African country.

Following a tip-off, they were arrested from Uttam Nagar where they had gone to supply heroin to a peddler. Both the accused were staying in India illegally, they said.

"We recovered 50 grams (of heroin) from them. Further probe and interrogation is going on and the chain of supply is being investigated," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Santosh Kumar Meena said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two Special Task Force (STF)



personnel, including a platoon commander, were injured in a fierce gunbattle with Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, a police official said today.

The encounter took place last evening between the ultras and a joint team of security forces at a forest in Kistaram village, Sukma Superintendent of Police Abhishek Meena told PTI.

Separate joint squads of the STF and the District Reserve Guard (DRG) had yesterday launched an anti-Maoist operation in the forest areas of Kistaram and Chintagufa villages, located around 500 km from the state capital Raipur, following a tip-off about the presence of Naxals, he said.

When the patrolling teams were cordoning-off the forest areas near Sakler, Salatong and Tondamarka villages, multiple encounters took place between the security forces and the ultras, Meena said.

The longest gunbattle that lasted for about an hour took place in the evening in which platoon commander Milap Sori and constable Sodhi Hidma, belonging to the STF, sustained injuries, he said.

When the security personnel started zeroing-in on Naxals, they escaped into the dense forest, the SP said.

Reinforcement was rushed to the spot and the injured STF personnel were brought to Kistaram from where they were airlifted to Raipur in the early hours for treatment, he said.

Meena said as per the ground report, several Naxals were killed in the gunfight but their colleagues managed to drag them inside the core forest.

During the search so far, a huge cache explosives and Naxal-related material were recovered from the spot.

Further details were awaited as the search operation was underway in the region, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The AAP government has decided to hire a 'social media agency' to project Delhi as a tourist-friendly destination on social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The tourism department of Delhi government has prepared a plan under which it will undertake several initiatives - one of them is hiring of a professional social media agency.

An official said Delhi has several tourist destinations which include monuments, markets, temples among others, but there is need to promote the national capital on social networking sites through which millions of people can be reached.

Delhi is also known as heritage city which has several monuments.

"The social media agency will be hired by September this year. The work of this agency id to brand Delhi as a tourist friendly destination on social networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

"The social media agency will make plans and execute them for branding Delhi," the official told PTI.

According to the official, governments of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan and among others are also "very active" on social media sites to promote tourism in their respective states.

As part of the plan, the Delhi government will also produce five short videos and six radio jingles to promote tourism in the national capital.

Apart from this, "tourist literature" will also be published.

When the AAP came to power, it had invited "innovative" ideas from senior bureaucrats, who have travelled to foreign countries, to make Delhi an international tourist destination and increase the time tourists stay in the city by giving them more options to explore the heritage city.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)has asked the government to "restore" equity infusion in the carrier, after it failed to find any takers for its

The loss-making carrier has already received more than Rs 260 billion under the bailout package announced by the former UPA government in April 2012.

"We have sought restoration of the equity infusion in and have written to the government last week in this regard," a senior airline official said.

The official, however, did not disclose the amount of the funds the airline was looking at.

The UPA government had approved a turnaround plan under which is to receive a total equity infusion worth Rs 302.31 bilion up to 2021, subject to meeting certain performance thresholds.

Amid fund crunch, during which Air India also had to defer its staff salaries, the airline borrowed Rs 62.5 billion from various banks between September last year and January this year for working capital requirements and other needs.

The carrier, which has a debt burden of about Rs 500 billion till March last year, had been receiving about Rs 30-40 billion equity infusion on an average per fiscal from the government till FY14. However, after that the amount was gradually reduced.

For 2018-19, the airline has been allocated Rs 6.5 bilion in view of its now failed plan.

The government had proposed to offload 76 per cent equity share capital of the national carrier as well as transfer the management control to private players, besides complete sale of its low-cost arm Air India Express and its entire stake in 50:50 joint venture AI-SATS.

Concerned about reports of security threats to Sikhs in Shillong, the Amarinder Singh government in Punjab has decided to rush a four-member team headed by Cabinet Minister Sukhjinder Randhawa to the Meghalayan capital, an official said here today.

The team will make a ground assessment of the situation in the troubled areas and extend all possible help to the Sikh community there, an official spokesperson said.

The chief minister has directed the team, which has MPs Gurjit Aujla and Ravneet Bittu, and MLA Kuldip Singh Vaid as its members, to leave for Shillong on Monday morning.

Amarinder Singh has sought Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma's cooperation in facilitating the team's visit and ensuring their access to areas from where reports of tension were coming in, said the spokesperson.

The Punjab chief minister also urged Sangma to provide protection and safety to the Sikh community and their religious institutions in the state, the spokesperson said.

The decision to send a team to Shillong was triggered by reports that, despite the Meghalayan chief minister's assurance, the situation was still not under control and had the potential of escalating further, said the spokesperson.

Amarinder Singh has offered all possible help to the Meghalayan government in ensuring the security of the Dalit Sikhs, whose ancestors were reportedly brought to Shillong during the British era.

The Punjab chief minister said, if necessary, the Centre should intervene to defuse communal tensions in which the Sikhs in Shillong were caught.

Earlier, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma called up Amarinder Singh to assure him of the safety of the Sikh community.

Sangma had called up the Punjab chief minister on Friday night to apprise him of the situation in the state in the wake of communal violence triggered by a minor incident and to allay any apprehensions of the Sikh community being under attack.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh today dubbed Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh's controversial remarks about the ongoing farmers agitation "bizzare".

"It is not the protest which is bizarre, but the union minister's statement," Amarinder Singh said.

He said that the Union minister's statement yesterday that the protest by farmers was an attempt to gain media attention showed the Centre's apathy towards the farming community.

The Punjab chief minister demanded Radha Mohan Singh's resignation saying that he did not connect with the farmers' woes.

"When a minister entrusted with the welfare of the farmers cannot relate to their problems and is absolutely indifferent to their plight, one can well imagine which way the country is headed," Amarinder Singh said.

He added that the farmers were committing suicide out of sheer desperation and masses were reeling under spiralling prices.

"When the farmers, who feed the nation, are forced to resort to such extreme steps, including taking to the streets to draw attention to their pitiable condition, then it does not augur well for the country," he said.

"Radha Mohan (Singh) clearly had no qualms about showing his lack of sensitivity to their problems," he said.

Expressing solidarity with the agitating farmers, Amarinder Singh blamed the Centre for their woes.

"The farmers are suffering as a result of the central government's failure to waive their debts, which many state governments, including Punjab, have repeatedly sought," he said.

Questioning the Centre's intent to rescue the beleaguered farmers, Amarinder Singh asked, "If a bankrupt state like Punjab could do its bit for a loan waiver, why could the Centre not come up with a waiver scheme?"



The chief minister also demanded that the farmers be paid the due price for their produce and in toto implementation of the Swaminathan Commission report.

Amarinder Singh said that the Modi government only seemed interested in appeasing the rich industrialists who were fleecing the country.

"The poor are nowhere on their priority agenda," he said.

Farmers in various parts of the country launched a 10-day agitation on Friday to press their demands including a loan waiver and the right price for crops.

They dumped farm produce on roads and blocked supplies to cities in several states on Friday.

When asked about the protest at a press conference yesterday in Patna, Radha Mohan Singh said that farmers opted for "unusual deeds" to draw media attention as they belong to organisations with only a few thousand members.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Assam's Priyanka Das, working on satellite navigation for French major Safran, has been appointed ambassador for an initiative in France to encourage girls to follow scientific careers and take it to higher levels.

"For Girls and Science" initiative was launched in 2014 to promote more scientific vocations among young people, especially girls, and inspire them to become scientists of tomorrow and supported by the Ministry of National of France and the L'Oreal Foundation.

"As part of the programme, we meet middle school and high school students, and through talks and presentations, we try to clear the misconceptions about scientists and women in science," says 26-year-old Priyanka.

It is linked to the L'Oreal Women in Science programme that awards five women scientists each year in collaboration with UNESCO.

Priyanka, who has her roots in Assam, is pursuing her PhD and working in R&D with a team of experts in the Navigation Systems division of Safran.

"I'm working on a very specific matter on how to make positioning more robust and precise. It can have applications as one of the many sensor information used by autonomous systems like a self-driving car for self-localisation," Priyanka told PTI.

"I had the chance of visiting Safran when I was a first year student at Polytechnique. It was a visit organised by ISAE Supaero, an aerospace engineering school in the south of France. I was very impressed with the work they did at Safran and dreamt of working there one day," she says.

"Fast forward two years, I was selected at Supaero for masters in Aerospace Engineering and while a student there, I was chosen for a PhD financed by Safran, with collaboration of the SCAN lab at ISAE Supaero," she says.

The title of her PhD is "Robust and Precise Navigation using Tightly-coupled Hybridization of Inertial and GNSS Phase Measurements".

Priyanka, whose father Manoj Das is DGM (Advisory & Consultancy) in North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd (NEDFi) and mother is a senior medical officer in Delhi, received her degree at France's Ecole Polytechnique on June 1.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)At least 13 people were killed today in two separate attacks in central Nigeria's Benue state, an area wracked by clashes between Christian farmers and nomadic cattle herders, local officials said.

In the first attack overnight, gunmen believed to be herders invaded Tseadough village killing seven people, including women and children and took one woman captive, according to Kwande local government council head Terdoo Nyor Kenti.

The armed herdsmen stormed the village shortly after midnight while the people were asleep.

"From what I gathered, they opened fire and shot sporadically in all directions which rattled everyone," he said.

"Seven people were killed at the end, six others were injured while the herdsmen also went away with a woman after burning several houses and farmland in the area," he added.

A resident, Msurter Anger, confirmed the attack, adding that "everyone had gone to bed when the sound of sporadic gunshot was heard from all corners of the village." He said "seven unlucky ones, including women and children, were either hacked or shot dead while an elderly man who could not run was burnt in his home." In Otukpo town today, six people were killed in a cult violence, according to a witness Ogli.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The bodies of 11 migrants have been recovered and 67 others rescued after their boat began sinking off Tunisia's southern coast, the interior ministry said today.

Those rescued from the fishing vessel off the coast of southern Sfax province included "Tunisians and foreigners", it said citing an initial toll.

The Tunisian national guard and navy units found the ship about 30 kilometres off shore after receiving a distress call at around midnight on Saturday.

The ministry said search operations, with the help of military aircraft and divers, were ongoing.

Tunisians and migrants regularly try to cross the Mediterranean to seek a better future in Europe, but departures peaked last September.

According to NGOs, the uptick reflected frustration among young people hard hit by unemployment.

In October, a collision between a migrant boat and a Tunisian military ship left at least 44 dead, in what Prime Minister Youssef Chahed called a "national disaster".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from "bloodshed", Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti today termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day.

The people of Kashmir and the leadership here have to decide on the opportunity provided by the Centre in terms of unilateral ceasefire, which stopped the bloodshed here, and then the readiness for dialogue, how we benefit from it, Mehbooba said addressing a convention of her Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mehbooba said the ceasefire and talks offer an opportunity to the separatists to stop bloodshed in Jammu and Kashmir.

There are other parties who are not in the mainstream, and if they have some other agenda, they have an opportunity now if they want to stop bloodshed in J&K. We always say that there has to be a political solution to J&K and the army or CRPF or police cannot resolve it.

"It can only be resolved politically thorough dialogue. And when there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre, I request all stake holders to come forward to save J&K and its economy, she said.

While the Centre announced unilateral ceasefire for the holy month of Ramadhan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh recently said the Centre was ready to talk to separatists in the valley if they are willing for a dialogue.

The chief minister said while she cannot force the separatists, they have to think on giving the youth in Kashmir a way out from the stone and gun culture.

We cannot force you or give you a dictation, but can only request even a day before yesterday a youth got killed after he came under a vehicle during stone-pelting. He was an orphan but why take to stone-pelting? Why not give them a way out from this morass, from stone or gun culture, she said.

Putting the onus on the separatists, Mehbooba said the mainstream parties in the state gave them an opportunity by providing an atmosphere for talks and now it was up to the separatists to take advantage of the opportunity.

We, mainstream parties, gave you unilateral ceasefire and an atmosphere for talks, now it is up to you - the separatists. I request them that it is an opportunity, that you always say that military solution is no solution and only dialogue is the way forward to achieve a political solution. So, today you have an offer of dialogue.

They (Centre) are saying come and talk to us. I think if J&K has to be taken out of this morass and difficult time, then all be it mainstream parties or separatists have to come forward and use this opportunity. Such an opportunity does not come every day, she said, adding I request all the leaders (separatists) you are very tall leaders - but right now use this opportunity of talks to save J&K. Come forward and talk.

She said the eyes of the whole country were on Kashmir and if the people here lose this opportunity, then no one will support or advocate for them tomorrow.

The Home Minister of this country is saying they want to embrace Kashmiris and are ready for talks. If we lose this opportunity, nobody will support us tomorrow, no one will advocate for us. The eyes of the whole country are on J&K and its leadership to see what they decide and how they try to save the people of Kashmir, especially its youth. If we have to save J&K, this is an opportunity for us, Mehbooba said.

Amidst reports of more youth joining militant ranks, the chief minister said the increase in the militancy would only increase the footprints of the security forces in the valley.

The increase in the number of youth picking up guns will increase the presence of army, CRPF and the police here. The more the situation improves, the more we can tell Army, CRPF or police that your role is over and you reduce your footprints, she said.

Referring to the spate of grenade attacks over the last few days, Mehbooba said gun or grenade attacks achieve nothing.

Despite the unilateral ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. They do not see that civilians are getting killed, they do not see that army or CRPF jawans have come from far-flung areas for their bread and butter, what will this achieve?



There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved? We have achieved Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, Poonch-Rawalkote road and if the situation improves, I promise you that we will re-open more such routes, she said.

The chief minister also batted for talks between India and Pakistan and condemned the ceasefire violations on the border.

Till both the countries come closer, situation will not improve. J&K bears the maximum impact of the relationship between India and Pakistan. So, our party's agenda is that they should talk to each other, she said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Centre will bring a bill in Parliament to ensure that schools do not assign homework to students of classes 1 and 2, has said.

His remarks came in the wake of an interim order of the on May 30 asking the Centre to instruct state governments to reduce the weight of children's school bags and do away with homework for classes 1 and 2.

Javadekar said he believed there cannot be learning without fun.

"I welcome the decision (of the court). We are studying the order and will definitely do whatever is required," he told a press conference here yesterday.

The Union minister said the Centre will bring a no homework bill in the Monsoon Session of Parliament in compliance with the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Act, 2009, and hoped it will be passed.

"I believe there has to be a 'learn with fun'. Children should not be put under any pressure. We will do whatever is required to lessen the pressure on children in compliance with the court order," Javadekar said.

Noting that children are neither weightlifters nor school bags loaded containers, the high court had asked the state government to ensure that the weight of the satchels should not be more than 10 per cent of the weight of the child.

Justice N Kirubakaran had also directed the Centre to instruct the state governments not to prescribe any other subjects except language and mathematics for classes 1 and 2 students.

Clean India mission and internal security are among the important agendas listed for a two-day conference of governors and Lt Governors beginning tomorrow at Rashtrapati Bhavan here.

This would be the 49th such conference and the second one to be presided over by President Ram Nath Kovind.

The first conference of governors was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in 1949. It was presided over by C Rajagopalachari, the then governor general of India.

The conference this year will discuss important thematic issues in various sessions. It will commence on June 4 with the inaugural address by the president.

The second session will see briefings and presentations on flagship programmes of the government and on internal security, according to a statement issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan.

During this session, presentations will be made by the vice chairman and the CEO of NITI Aayog as well as by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also address the gathering, it said.

The third session will cover the theme of higher education in state universities and skill development for employability. The governor of Gujarat will be the convenor of this session.

During this session presentations will be made by the higher education secretary and Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion secretary.

In the fourth session, governors and Lt governors will discuss steps taken on the report 'Rajyapal Vikas Ke Rajdoot: Catalytic Role of Governors as Agents for Change in Society'. This report was submitted by the Committee of Governors to the president on January 9.

The committee was constituted during the 48th conference of governors held in October 2017. Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana ESL Narasimhan will convene this session.

On June 5, the fifth session of the conference will discuss ideas on how to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

During this session, presentations will be made on Gram Swaraj Abhiyan and Swachhata Internship and Governors/Lt Governors will make suggestions. Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik shall be the convenor of this session.

In the sixth and concluding session, brief presentations on the deliberations in the previous thematic sessions will be made by the convenor governors.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, the prime minister, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will address the concluding session.

A special session on Union territories will be held on June 5 at which Lt Governors or administrators will discuss status of implementation of various flagship programmes.

The cabinet secretary, the home secretary and other senior officials will be part of the meeting. Governors and Lt Governors of all states and Union territories will attend the conference.

The vice president, , the PM, Union ministers of home affairs, external affairs, human resource development, skill development and entrepreneurship; the minster of state of ministry of culture and vice chairman and CEO of NITI Aayog will also participate apart from senior officials from various ministries.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Curfew in pockets of Shillong was relaxed for seven hours on Sunday, even as Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the violence that broke out on Thursday was a local issue and not communal in nature.

A team of Shiromani Akali Dal leaders from Delhi visited the capital in view of the clashes involving residents of the Punjabi Line area and employees of state-run buses belonging to the Khasi community. The Punjab government has also sent a team here.

The East Khasi Hills district authorities relaxed the curfew from 8 am to 3 pm to allow churchgoers to attend Sunday services, officials said.

"The problem is very much in a particular locality, on a particular issue. It just happened that two particular communities were involved, but it's not a communal thing," Sangma told a press conference.

The clashes in parts of Shillong were given a communal colour by vested groups and a section of the media outside the state, he said.

A number of those arrested in connection with the violence were from outside East Khasi Hills district, in which Shillong falls, Sangma said.

Police used tear gas shells to disperse protesters in #Shillong, detained five persons. Curfew remains imposed & internet services remain suspended in parts of city after clash broke out b/w 2 groups following escalation of an argument between a woman & a bus conductor #Meghalaya pic.twitter.com/nMmLRss9o9  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

The chief minister said, "Money and liquor were given to people to indulge in violence. We have evidence of it".

The authorities were on the job to trace those funding the violence, he said.

Earlier, a SAD team, including MLA Manjinder Singh Sirsa and the party's Delhi unit president Manjit Singh, met the residents of the violence-hit area, and called on Sangma.

Union Minister of State for Home said in New Delhi that no damage had been caused to any gurdwara or other institutions belonging to the Sikh community in

The Amarinder Singh government in Punjab also decided to rush a four-member team to the Meghalayan capital.

The team would make a ground assessment of the situation in the troubled areas and extend help to the Sikh community there, an official spokesperson said in Chandigarh.

Sangma had called up the Punjab chief minister on Friday night to apprise him of the situation.

Singh has offered all help to the Meghalaya government in ensuring security to the Dalit Sikhs, whose ancestors were reportedly brought to Shillong during the British era.

Officials told PTI here that the curfew which was promulgated in 14 localities in areas in the Lumdiengjri police station and the Cantonment police beat house will continue.

Night curfew would also continue in the entire city from 10 pm to 5 am for the third consecutive day, and Internet services would remain suspended, the officials said.

The Army, kept on standby, had conducted flag marches in various localities after the violence that left at least 10 people including policemen injured.

The violence erupted after a bus handyman was beaten up by a group of residents of the area on Thursday afternoon.

Trouble escalated when rumours spread on social media that the handyman had succumbed to injuries, prompting a group of bus drivers to converge in the Punjabi Line area. The police had to fire teargas shells to disperse them.

The handyman and three injured persons were taken to a hospital where they were administered first-aid.

Violence occurred in Shillong on Friday and Saturday too. Four people were arrested.

However, tourists were not affected by the violence though they have been enquiring about the situation, Shillong Hoteliers Association president Kishen Tibrewala said.

"I hope the state government will handle the situation in a positive manner and it would become normal soon," he said adding that the skirmishes could affect tourism in the state.Coal India Ltd will try out a new customer-friendly billing system for consumers with state-iwned power major NTPC on a pilot basis, in line with a global quality practice framework, a top official has said.

The new billing mechanism will compute prices on every unit of Gross Calorific Value (GCV( of coal, doing away with the grade policy at present.

The GCV unit-based pricing of coal was first announced by Gopal Singh in January this year, when he was holding temporary charge as chairman of Coal India.

Singh had expected the rollout of the new pricing method from April this year.

"It has not started yet. It entails lot of things and that's why we are not in a hurry. Consumers should also agree. We are planning to carry out a pilot soon with NTPC," Coal India director (marketing) S N Prasad told PTI.

The trial will be conducted with 1-2 plants of NTPC and 1-2 mines of Coal India in the first round.

"After 2-3 months, we will analayze the results before taking a call on rollout in full scale," he said.

If the initial results are positive then the new pricing will cover all the NTPC plants in the second round before extending the new billing system to all consumers, Prasad said.

He said the pilot project will help the miner understand teething problems.

Coal India had also met the stakeholders to deliberate on the proposed pricing mechanism and claimed that most of them had supported it.

Asked why the rollout of the new pricing mechanism has been delayed, a senior official of Coal India said it is a major reform involving all the mines and requires a cautious approach.

You pay exactly what quality you get. For each GCV, 48 paisa will change either upward or downward from the median of each grade that the company has proposed," Gopal Singh had explained earlier.

Coal India has 17 grades -- from 2000 to 7000 GCV -- with difference of 300 GCV between two grades.

Coal India expects the new mechanism to bring down corruption and leave a positive impact on coal production.

Earlier, mining workers were not encouraged to cross a grade which was difficult but all miners will now be encouraged to produce more, Singh had said earlier.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)RLD leader Jayant Chaudhary today said the Congress should play a supporting role in states dominated by regional parties in seat-sharing agreements ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Backed by the Congress, the Samajwadi Party, and the Bhaujan Samaj Party, Chaudhary's Rashtriya Lok Dal recently won the Kairana parliamentary bye-election, boosting expectations of opposition unity.

Admitting that seat-sharing was a difficult task, particularly in Uttar Pradesh where there are as many as four major parties, the RLD vice president said all partners will have to show magnanimity to halt the BJP in its tracks.

In states where the Congress is the main party, he suggested that the regional parties should support it.

While in the others, where the regional parties are in the vanguard, the Congress will have to play the supporting role, he told PTI, suggesting a formula to keep the fledgling flock together.

"It is, however, for the Congress to take a call on this, but all the constituents have realised that this is the way forward," he said in a telephone interview.

He said the realisation had already dawned in Karnataka where the Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular) have formed the government.

He added that things are moving in the same directions in Madhya Pradesh with reports of the Congress and the BSP trying to come together for the assembly elections later this year.

Referring to the bye-elections for Gorakhpur, Phulpur and Kairana Lok Sabha constituencies won by the opposition in UP in the last few months, Chaudhary said, The three bye-elections have broken the myth of the BJP's invincibility and all parties have realised the fact that this is the way forward.

If things can be managed properly in Uttar Pradesh, the 2019 poll results will be different," he said.

"The fact that the three main parties - the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the RLD are being led by a new generation of leaders will be most helpful, Chaudhary (39) said.

He said the new-generation leaders carry no burden of history and are very comfortable with each other, and this can be translated into providing a political alternative.

Chaudhary, who is son of RLD chief Ajit Singh and grandson of Jat leader Charan Singh, was an MP from Mathura in the previous Lok Sabha.

"Coalition is nothing new for the country as it helps in giving representation to the diversity of the country, he said, adding even Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP Chief Minister Adityanath are leading coalitions.

He said besides pointing at a formula to success for anti-BJP parties, the bye-election result have shown people the possibility of an alternative.

Till now the momentum had been in favour of the BJP and people believed that no one could face the 'Chanakya niti' of party president Amit Shah, he said.

The ruling party also does not have the excuse that its top leadership had remained absent from Kairana, he said.

"Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was there twice and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the adjoining areas just before the polling, while deputy CMs, Union ministers and MPs stayed put in the constituency," he said.

The RLD leader was also critical of the campaign undertaken by the BJP, saying the party leaders indulged in negative talk which was unbecoming of those occupying such high posts.

"We successfully managed to put the government on the mat raising questions on development and farmers issues, he said.

These are important matters and cannot be ignored by any government," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Home grown datacentre firm CtrlS plans to invest Rs 1,500 crore to expand its footprint to accommodate massive data, generated by new technologies and privacy laws that require companies to store data locally.

"We are going to set-up a hyper scale datacentre in Hyderabad with 100 megabyte capacity equivalent to about 1 million square feet in tier 4 category. The work on this will start in next 3-6 months time and it will take 18 months to complete it. We will invest around Rs 1,200 crore in this facility," CtrlS founder and CEO Sridhar Pinnapureddy told PTI.

The company, which claims to be leader in Asia in tier-4 datacentre category, hosts data of large business houses, including State Bank of India, Tata Group, Mahindra Group of companies, Adani Group, Birla Group of companies and Fedex, among others.

CtrlS is also planning to start two new data centres facility separately at Hyderabad and Mumbai.

"We are setting up two new projects. A 130 thousand square feet centre in Mumbai, which will be second facility in the metro city and a 70-80 thousand square feet facility in Hyderabad. These centres will be operational by December. The combined investment in these facilities is around Rs 300 crore," Pinnapureddy said.

He said that the company only operates in tier-4 data centres that have to assure 99.995 per cent uptime and the expansion will be funded mostly by internal accruals and partly with debt funding.

"At CtrS we have EBIDTA of around Rs 220 crore. This year we expect our gross revenue to be around Rs 500 crore. We also have our cloud business firm Cloud4C, which operates in 20 countries. The combined revenue with Cloud4C will be around Rs 800 crore by end of this fiscal," Pinnapureddy said.

CtrlS Vice-President BS Rao said that the company serves 15 of the Fortune 100 global multi-national companies and demand has started coming for next generation technologies like internet of things, data analytics and cloud computing. And with the new privacy laws - this segment is expected to expand significantly as many companies will need to store data locally.

The BFSI contributes 44 per cent to the total business of CtrlS, 18 per cent by IT/ITeS firm, 13 per cent telecom, 12 per cent from services, 5 per cent manufacturing segment and 4 per cent comes from government business, Rao said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The fluid samples of a jawan, who died here days after returning from his hometown in Kerala, has tested "negative" for Nipah virus infection, a defence official said today.

The Command Hospital at Kolkata had sent Seenu Prasad's fluid samples to National Institute of Virology at Pune for the medical test, the official said.

Prasad, posted at Army's Eastern Command Headquarters Fort William, had gone to his hometown in Kerala on a month's leave. He rejoined office on May 13.

His deteriorating medical condition, upon his return, prompted the authorities to admit him to Command Hospital on May 20, the defence spokesperson said, adding that the 27-year-old jawan passed away five days later.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Feeling intimidated while working with Rajinikanth in "Kaala" was obvious for Huma Qureshi but the actor was surprised by the megastar's down-to-earth nature.

Huma will be seen working with the 67-year-old actor for the first time in Pa Ranjith's upcoming film, which features Rajinikanth as a powerful don living in the slums of Dharavi.

"What I found out about Rajini sir is that he is such a spiritual person, he is so simple. Sometimes, you think the person's image is what he is but he is far from it. He talks fondly about his past, his journey of becoming an actor from a bus conductor.

"It's nice to know that a person, who has seen massive stardom, is still humble and knows where he comes from," the actor told PTI.

Huma said that despite being one of the most successful stars of India, Rajinikanth does not his stardom on the sets.

"I was very intimidated, even before we started working I was aware that he is such a massive star and I didn't know what to expect. But once we started shooting, I realised what a simple person he is despite being a huge star.

"The director's word is final for him and I learnt so much by just observing him. Not even for a moment did he carry his stardom on sets," she says.

For her, the journey of "Kaala" began post the release of her 2017 film "Jolly LLB 2" when she got a call from actor Dhanush, Rajinikanth's son-in-law who produced the film.

Huma then flew to Chennai for the narration and fell in love with the story.

Talking abut her experience of working with the film's director, Huma says, "I think Ranjit sir as a director has a strong political voice which comes across in the film, which I personally enjoyed. I like working with people who have some belief. It doesn't have to be my belief but it feels good to be a part of something which is different from the usual stuff happening around."



In a classic Rajinikanth film, there is often little scope for a female character to perform but Huma says "Kaala" is different.

"It is a quintessential Rajinikanth film but at the same time, it is not a film where women are seen in just accessory roles, where you are just singing and dancing and looking pretty."



"They are doing a lot more from a performance point of view. When you see the film, I promise you won't be disappointed," she adds.

Though the 31-year-old actor is tight-lipped about her role in the action-drama, Huma insists it was a challenging feat.

"I never thought I would be able to pull off a character like this had it not been for the support of the entire direction team as I was speaking a language I don't know - Tamil.

"The first three-four days were difficult. You struggle with your lines and try to find a rhythm. For every film, you take four-five days to understand the vision. But credit to the team, I felt at home. It was fun and an amazing learning experience."



"Kaala", which also features veteran actor Nana Patekar, is scheduled to release on June 7.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A notice was issued to a TV channel by the Delhi Minorities Commission (DMC) for airing a report which allegedly referred to some locals of north Delhi's Bawana area as "Rohingyas" and "Bangladeshis", the panel's head said.

"The DMC has issued a notice to Sudarshan TV over a report it telecast about the residents of Bawana in north Delhi," its chairman Zafarul Islam Khan said.

He said the channel had aired a programme on May 11 that "dubbed" them as Bangladeshis and Rohingyas although these Indian citizens had been officially settled there by government agencies after their relocation from various areas of Delhi over the decades.

The managing director of the channel was directed to reply by June 12 with proof to show that the Bawana residents were Bangladeshis and Rohingyas, Khan said.

"If it fails, the channel has been directed to tender an unconditional written apology and inform the commission what action it has taken against the reporter and the staff who prepared and aired the fake report that spread disaffection against a section of Indian citizens," he said.

The DMC also ordered the channel to air the apology and submit an undertaking that it would not telecast such reports in future.

The commission has said in its notice that should the channel fail to positively reply to the notice, appropriate action" would be taken against it.

A notice was also issued to the deputy commissioner of police of north district to file a report about the action taken against the said broadcast, and a person who was allegedly behind the rumours that the residents of the area were Bangladeshis and Rohingyas, Khan added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Dr Reddy's Laboratories expects to launch over 15 products in the US market in 2018-19, according to a top company official.

The Hyderabad-based drug major also remains optimistic for a double digit growth in the domestic market in the ongoing financial year.

"Normally every year, based on our portfolio and R&D investments, we prepare for 10 to 15 launches. But this year (2018-19), it could be 15 plus," the company's CFO Saumen Chakraborty told analysts in a call.

The company, which launched three products in the US during March quarter of 2017-18, has over 100 abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs) lined up for approval with the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA).

"We have over 100 ANDAs pending, many of them first-to-file, many of them complex assets, both at the API level as well as the finished dosage level," CEO GV Prasad said.

When asked about steps being taken by the company regarding regulatory issues at its two sites, Prasad said FDA has asked drug maker for information on Srikakulam (Andhra Pradesh) facility.

"We are working on providing that back. We hope to complete the request in June. And after that, we have to talk to them about going forward," he said.

Regarding the company's formulation manufacturing facility at Duvvada in Visakhapatnam, Prasad said: "The Duvvada site has to be inspected. We have done a lot of remediation work and the inspection request will go to them in the end of June or early July and then we will await a reinspection."



Commenting on the company's India operations, COO Erez Israeli said the drug maker is witnessing progressive improvement in the business performance over the last few quarters.

"We strive to perform better than the market through 2018-19. Overall, we remain optimistic towards the double digit growth rate in the current financial year," he said.

The company generated revenues of Rs 2,332.2 crore from domestic business in 2017-18.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)With Bengal's biggest festival still a few months away, members of a Durga Puja committee in Kolkata has tapped the Chinese Consulate here to theme their pandal on Hulu, a thin gourd popular in a mainland province, and the art forms surrounding it.

"Hulu which is believed to bring good omen and prosperity, is very popular in Yunnan where it is grown widely. We also have a musical instrument made out of the gourd called 'Hulusi', it is like a trumpet," the Consul General in Kolkata, Ma Zhanwu said today.

A team visiting Yunnan will find for themselves more about the concept of Hulu and the art forms surrounding the same for their puja, Zhanwu said.

The Consul said Hulu also accounts for popular public installations and the Hulu themed pandal at BJ Block in Salt Lake may have Chinese carvings, which will be discussed with the organisers.

Theme is an important part of Durga Puja celebrations with organisers competing with each other to execute different themes based on which pandal, ambience and illumination are created.

The Consul said the BJ Block Durga Puja, Salt Lake, in was not being sponsored by the Consulate, However, the Consulate was only trying to find sponsors to help "the chief architect (of the pandal) and organisers to visit Yunnan province.

"They would go to China and see the structures in person and also may be, some illumination ideas for the 'Hulu' pandal. They can take inspiration from the 'Hulu' art installations.

"Hulus can be cut into half and used as water container, there can be hulu shaped artificial water body, fountains, it could be musical instrument," he said.

He said the organisers of BJ Block puja also wanted to have some Chinese artefacts and Indian handicrafts displayed on either side of the pandal and there can also be Chinese artistic performances.

"Some artists from China are likely to perform at BJ Block during pujas and their will be lion dance as well," there will be no artiste from China for making the pandal, the Chinese diplomat said.

"The Chinese Consulate in Kolkata has taken part in best pandal competition activities and have invited the winners to visit China for a week. We have also sent lion dance groups to different pandals to demonstrate the Chinese culture," Zhanwu said,



A spokespman of the puja committee said, "Our puja had always been a frontrunner in terms of aesthetic appeal and creativity. This year, we hope the crowd will be bigger. We are holding discussions with the Chinese Consulate to discuss details."



The spokesman said the approximate budget will be Rs 40 lakh.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Madhya Pradesh remained largely peaceful today on a third day of the 10-day agitation by farmers demanding remunerative prices for their produce and waiver of farm loans, among others.

BJP MP Shatrughan Sinha, former union finance minister Yashwant Sinha, and ex-VHP leader Praveen Togadia are likely to join the farmers' stir in Mandsaur, the epicentre of last year's agitation in which six peasants were killed in police firing, on June 8.

"Yashwant Sinha, Shatrughan Sinha and Praveen Togadia would attend our 'Dhikkar Diwas' (condemnation day) programme and condolence meeting which we have rescheduled to June 8 instead of June 6," said Rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Mahasangh president Shivkumar Sharma 'Kakkaji'.

Mahasangh, a federation of 130 farmers' bodies from across the country, is spearheading the nationwide protest.

Sharma alleged the police have been trying to break the ongoing "Gaon bandh" agitation by forcing farmers to come out of their villages with agriculture produce.

"This is a 'Gaon Bandh' (village shutdown) agitation and farmers are not coming out of their villages. However, police are trying to make farmers leave villages by adopting various means. At places, the administration is sharing fake videos showing that farmers are not participating in the agitation," he alleged.

Police have beefed up security in Mandsaur ahead of Congress president Rahul Gandhi's visit on June 6 to mark the first anniversary of killing of six farmers. Police have deployed drones to monitor traffic during Gandhi's rally.

Mandsaur Superintendent of Police Manoj Kumar Singh said drones were brought from Bhopal "to keep an eye on traffic movement for security reasons during Gandhi's public meeting".

Five companies of the Special Armed Force (SAF) are keeping a vigil across the district.

Meanwhile, Sharma said prices of vegetables are going up in urban areas due to non-arrival of vegetables.

However, Mandsaur Mandi (agriculture market) inspector Samir Das said the arrival of vegetables was normal.

Bhopal Krishi Upaj Mandi secretary Vinay Prakash Pateria said 2,500 quintals of vegetables arrived in the local agriculture market due to Sunday and that there is no impact of the ongoing agitation.

"Today was a holiday in mandis. However, about 2,500 quintals of vegetables arrived in (Bhopal) mandi as usual. There is no impact of the ongoing agitation," Pateria said.

Farmers in Madhya Pradesh launched the 10-day-long agitation on June 1 as part of a nationwide strike to press for their demands, including waiver of loans and the right price for crops.

Farmers had held protests across the state last year demanding better prices for their crops.

In the wake of the protests, the state government in October 2017 launched Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana, a scheme to protect farmers over falling farm prices.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A child's right to maintenance is not restricted to his father paying for two daily meals only but must be determined on the basis of benefits he would have enjoyed as if he was living with his parents, a Delhi court has said.

The court's observation came while directing a man to pay Rs 12,000 per month to his estranged wife for maintaining their eight-year-old son.

Additional Sessions Judge Sanjiv Jain rejected the appeal filed by the man against a magisterial court order directing him to pay Rs 12,000 towards maintenance of the child and Rs 6,000 to wife for her expenses every month in a domestic violence case lodged by her.

"The scope of his (father's) duty is to be regulated directly in relation to the money, status that he enjoys. The right to maintenance of a child from his father cannot be restricted to two meals a day but must be determined on the basis of benefit, status and money that the child would have enjoyed as if he was living with the family including mother and father," the judge said.

The court accepted the contention of the woman, who got married in 1998, that she was beaten and tortured by her husband as their relationship got strained after he developed a relationship with their house maid after six years of their marriage.

It also said that just because there was no medico legal case for each time she was beaten, does not mean she was not tortured.

"It is true that there is no medico legal case to support the allegations of the woman as to the incident of beating but it does not mean that no incident of beating had taken place or for every incident of beating, there should be the medico legal case," the court said.

In his appeal against the magisterial court order, the man claimed that he was earning between Rs 15,000-20,000 per month and had the liability to take care of his ailing father.

The court, however, said that the trial court has rightly assessed the husband's income to be more than Rs 50,000 per month as fitness trainer.

In her complaint, the woman had alleged that she had separated from her husband several times and had even approached the police but they reconciled after the man apologised and assured he would live peacefully with her.

She alleged that she finally separated from him in 2011 after the birth of her son in 2010 as the man stopped giving her money for household expenses and continued torturing her.

The man, however, had denied all the allegations and claimed that the woman maintained a lavish lifestyle which was beyond his means.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The ban on superstar Rajinikanth's coming movie 'Kaala' in Karnataka over his reported statements on the Cauvery row prompted a national film body to request the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce today to expedite it's release in the state.

The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) is upset with Rajinikanth's reportedstatement that whichever government comes to power inKarnataka should implement the Supreme Court order on Cauverywater sharing in toto.

The chamber recently decided not to allow screening of his movie Kaala, due for release on June 7, in the state.

The film star has often faced the wrath of pro-Kannada organisations for his comments on the Cauvery issue.

Film Federation of India president Sakshi Mehra told PTI that it has requested SIFCC to hold talks with KFCC to get the movie released, in the interest of the film industry.

SIFCC secretary L Suresh said they had sent a letter to KFCC to solve the problem by convening a meeting with the Kannada outfits.

"I have spoken to KFCC president Sa Ra Govindu and also written a letter to him. The KFCC would probably call for a meeting with the outfits tomorrow or the day after," he said.

Suresh said it is unfortunate that cinema is being mixed with politics, which would only result in a loss to the film industry.

"The ban on Kaala will not only affect the Tamil film industry, but also the Kannada film fraternity and the Indian film industry as a whole," he said.

Karnataka Rajinikant Fans Association too has written to KFCC, seeking chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's intervention to solve the issue.

"Politics should not be mixed with cinema. Rajinikanth had made remarks on the formation of Cauvery water board, which could be beneficial to both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu," president of Karnataka Rajinikanth Fans Association, Rajani Santosh said.

Yesterday, minister of state for finance and shipping Pon Radhakrishnan had asked DMK working president M K Stalin to request its ally Congress in Karnataka to take steps to release the film.

'Kaala' is scheduled for a worldwide release on June 7.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A VIP Embraer aircraft carrying External Affairs Minister to South Africa had gone incommunicado for 14 minutes, triggering a mid-air scare after the Mauritius Air Traffic Control pressed the panic button, an official statement said on Sunday.

Contact could not be established with the Indian Air Force flight IFC 31 after it left Male for Mauritius airspace on Saturday, the (AAI) said in a statement.

But instead of the waiting for the mandatory 30 minutes, the uncertainty phase was activated, known as INCERFA in aviation parlance, it said.

"Mauritius activated the uncertainty phase without allowing the stipulated time period of 30 minutes to lapse from the time when the aircraft last contacted This was perhaps done because the flight was carrying a VIP," the AAI said.

Since the Embraer-135 aircraft, carrying the minister, does not have a long range, it had stopovers at Thiruvananthapuram and Mauritius for refuelling.

The flight had left for Mauritius from Thiruvananthapuram at 2.08 pm. After it left the Indian airspace, it was handed over to the Male ATC which established contact with the flight at 4.44 pm IST.

Soon after it was handed over to the Mauritius ATC, the incident unfolded leading to panic. However, everyone heaved a sigh of relief when the aircraft came in contact with the ATC there at 4.58 pm, the AAI said.

The Ministry of External Affairs has not commented on the issue so far.

Swaraj is in South Africa to attend the BRICS and IBSA meets -- the two major groups where India has been playing a major role. She will also meet the top leadership of the country.

An official conversant with the ATC issues over the Indian Ocean region told PTI, the problem in contacting the flight could have arisen due to weak radar coverage as flights have to rely on VHF communication, which have their own set of issues.

The uncertainty phase is the first of the three emergency phases, the other two being the alert phase and the distress phase.major has shared 'some details' with the I-T authorities on its USD 16 billion deal with US-based Walmart, but the tax department will act only after regulatory approvals have been obtained, an official said.

The department is currently studying the details received from the company, the official said, adding that they can issue notices seeking details of taxes withheld once the transactions are completed.

Last month, the tax department had written to Bentonville -Arkansas based saying that the US company can seek guidance about the tax liability under Section 195 (2) of the I-T Act.

Under Section 195 of the Act, anyone making payment to non-residents is required to deduct tax (commonly known as withholding tax).

The official said has filed "some details" with the tax authorities and the same are being examined.

"There is no action required right now on our part. We will wait till the regulatory clearances are obtained," the official said.

Nangia Advisors LLP Managing Partner Rakesh Nangia said has power to issue notices u/s 133(6) of IT Act to any party involved in this mega deal, including Flipkart, or any of the investors selling their stake.

"If the department is not satisfied with the reply/ explanation furnished by the purchaser/ payer, it may hold the purchaser/ payer as 'assessee in default' for failure to withhold appropriate taxes u/s 195 of the Act," Nangia said.

The department currently is going through the Section 9 (1) of the Income Tax law, which deals with indirect transfer provisions, to see if the benefits under the bilateral tax treaties with countries like and Mauritius, could be available for foreign investors selling stakes to

Singapore-registered Pvt Ltd holds majority stake in Flipkart

Walmart had, on May 9, announced that it will pay about USD 16 billion to buy about 77 per cent stake in Flipkart. Significant shareholders in the Bengaluru-based company like SoftBank, Naspers, venture fund Accel Partners and has agreed to sell their shares, as well as

Experts, however, said that the only regulatory clearance that the deal would need is from the

According to V Lakshmikumaran, Managing Partner of law firm Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan: "Under Section 6 of the Competition Act, the Walmart will have to seek clearance from the as it is going to be a major player in the sector".

Besides, Walmart will also have to adhere to the guideline of the on market place model of which allows 100 per cent FDI under automatic route, he said.

As per DIPP guidelines, marketplace model means providing an platform by an e-commerce entity on a digital and electronic network to act as a facilitator between a buyer and seller.

E-commerce marketplaces are permitted to provide support services to sellers in respect of warehousing, logistics, order fulfillment, call centre, payment collection and other services. However, such entities will not exercise ownership over the inventory.

Regulatory clearances have become important in the wake of complaints filed by RSS-affiliate Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) to the Department of Industrial policy and Promotion (DIPP) alleging that US retail giant Walmart was "circumventing" rules for a "back-door entry" into

The DIPP has referred SJM's complaint to the ED, Reserve Bank, Comptetion Commission of (CCI) and the

Besides, traders body CAIT too has complained to the for alleged violation of the government's foreign direct investment (FDI) policy. It has also approached the saying that the deal will create unfair competition and an uneven level playing field for domestic players.Days after a 20-year-old woman was allegedly gang-raped on a South Goa beach, state BJP women's wing president Sulakshana Sawant has said the government cannot provide security to every individual.

The opposition Congress has criticised Sawant for her "disgusting" statement and said she should resign from her post on moral grounds.

"The government cannot provide security to every individual. We need to change the mentality of the people. An individual can act as a protector of the other," Sawant told a press conference here yesterday, while responding to a question on the alleged gang-rape of the woman on a South Goa beach on May 25.

The 20-year-old victim was allegedly sexually assaulted by three men from Indore in front of her boyfriend, the police had said.

Sawant said there was an increase in the number of rape cases being reported to the police because more women were coming forward to report such crimes these days.

"The women believe that something may change if they take a step forward (and report such cases)," she added.

Sawant said the BJP women's wing would request the state tourism department to install CCTV cameras on the crime-prone beaches of Goa, which attract lakhs of travellers every year.

Meanwhile, the Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee (GPMCC) said it was the responsibility of the government to provide security to every individual.

"It is disgusting that Sawant is making such a statement. She should immediately resign on moral grounds," GPMCC chief Pratima Coutinho said, adding that it was the government's responsibility to provide security to every individual, especially women.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In a major policy initiative aimed at benefitting farmers, the government has done away with the licensing permits for foreign vessels for coastal movement of agriculture, fishery and animal produce, besides allowing Indian citizens to charter ships for these, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said.

The move is also aimed at promoting processing of seafood at Indian hubs under Sagaramala initiative rather than processing of Indian seafood in Singapore before further exports to countries like Japan.

"We have done away with the licensing requirement for plying of foreign flag vessels by foreign players on the coastal line of India for four kind of cargos - agriculture, horticulture, fisheries and animal husbandry. We have also allowed chartering of foreign vessel by Indian citizens, Indian incorporated entities and Indian registered societies for this," Shipping Minister Gadkari told PTI.

The main intent of the government's reform in the maritime sector is to see that farmers income increases and through lower logistic charges like transportation through sea would reduce costs, the minister said.

"It is in continuation of a large number of initiatives Government of India is taking to increase farmers' income in line with the Prime Minister's objective to double farmers' income," Gadkari added.

The relaxation in licensing requirement has been given under section 407 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1958 and accordingly vessels with at least 50 per cent of total cargo onboard constituted by these commodities are not required to obtain a license from the Director General of Shipping for coastal trade.

"The relaxation has been undertaken to enable farmers to access a large market profitability, widen the range of goods to be marketed and lengthen the distance over which domestic trade can be conducted besides promoting trade and ease of doing business in India," the minister said.

The government has already undertaken Rs 14 lakh crore Sagarmala initiative for port-led development of the country, he added.

Waterborne transportation is cheaper on a per kilometre basis with respect to transportation by rail or road and can profitably support movement of the produce to reach a wider geography of markets and be monetised, the minister noted.

Currently, persistence of unidirectional demand leads to insufficient investment in the fleet and as a result inadequate availability of coastal vessels does not allow reliable and time bound services at Indian ports which is necessary for perishable goods, he added.

The minister also said that the initiative will further help in government's intent of promoting a mind-set shift from facilitating and protecting farmers, towards one that expands the market ecosystem.

Shipping Secretary Gopal Krishna told PTI that the move will help farmers as presently South India, where majority of the cotton mills are located, depends mainly on road for transportation of cotton from Gujarat, which is costly since it is a seasonal business.

Likewise wheat can be transported to the South from Gujarat through sea instead of present rail or road.

A shipping association official said many a times due to high transportation charges millers in South India prefer to import cotton from countries like Tanzania as it is cheaper to import from there.

The secretary said this "creates huge economic imbalance which goes against our Indian farmers".

From the east coast a lot of sea food goes to Singapore where it is processed and then exported to countries like Japan, he added.

"This could easily be arrested after this relaxation in licensing," he said, adding that food processing hubs can come up near ports.

Last week, the government had also done away with licensing requirement for ships chartered by Indian citizens or companies for transportation of EXIM containers for transshipment purposes and to promote entrepreneurship.

The move was aimed at arresting diversion of Indian container cargo to transshipment hubs at foreign ports that have been swelled to 33 per cent, besides creating employment.

At present transhipment hubs at Singapore, Malaysia, Colombo and Jabelali near Indian coastline gets about 33 per cent of the Indian container cargo, which is aggregated there before shipped to final destinations.

If aggregation is done at Indian ports, jobs will be created, port charges will come and an ecosystem will be developed, Gadkari has said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The government is all set to conclude a multi-billion dollar deal by October to procure 200 Kamov Ka-226T attack helicopters through a joint venture between Russian Helicopters and state-run aerospace behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.

Official sources said almost all the ground work to finalise the mega project has been completed as the government is eyeing to seal it within the next four months.

An inter-governmental agreement between India and Russia was signed for the project during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Moscow in December 2015.

In October 2016, India and Russia had finalised a broad agreement to set up the joint venture (JV) between HAL and Russian Helicopters which will co-produce the choppers. India is procuring the choppers to replace its ageing Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.

Last month, the defence ministry issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to the Indo-Russian venture for the project.

Officials said the HAL-RH joint venture will send a detailed response to the RFP by end of August and the final deal is set to be signed in October.

They said the government has already approved the technical configuration for the twin-engine multi-role helicopter which is known for its superior manoeuvring capabilities in mountainous areas.

The defence ministry has already approved the payment for setting up of the JV. A site in the vicinity of Tumkur near Bengaluru has been identified for setting up the facility to produce the choppers.

The Kamov helicopters will be supplied to the Indian Air Force and the Army. Both these forces have been pressing for early conclusion of the deal so that they could replace their ageing fleet of existing choppers within next three to four years.

According to the 2015 agreement, 60 Kamov-226T helicopters will be supplied to India in fly-away condition, while 140 will be manufactured in India.

Russia had agreed to ensure transfer of technologies to India as part of the pact. Russia has been one of India's key suppliers of arms and ammunition for decades.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar today said in a democracy, everyone has the right to raise their voice in a peaceful manner, but the government would maintain law and order in the state at any cost.

His remarks came after Jat community members in the state threatened to oppose programmes attended by the chief minister and his ministers for not implementing quota in government jobs and education and not withdrawing cases filed in connection with the 2016 quota stir.

"In a democracy, everyone has the right to raise his voice. But no one can obstruct others from having their say. The state government would maintain law and order at any cost and in every given situation," he said.

At a Jat Mahasabha organised in Jassia village in Rohtak district, the All-India Jat Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti announced yesterday that it will hold dharnas from August 16 wherever Khattar or his ministers attend public programmes in the state.

Khattar told reporters here that the Jat reservation issue is already in the courts and the government has already passed the Jat Reservation Bill.

"All parties concerned to the issue should also plead the case through their lawyers. We have to fight this together so that we can achieve the desired results," he said.

"The state government compensated those who suffered during the Jat agitation within one month. Jobs have also been given to the dependents of those who lost their lives in the violence that followed. Now, no issue is pending," he added.

The Jat Mahasabha was organised in the wake of the state government's submission in the Punjab and Haryana High Court last month that it would not withdraw cases related to the 2016 Jat agitation. The government had given permission for the withdrawal of 407 cases.

A total of 2,100 cases pertaining to arson and violence were registered in connection with the February 2016 agitation. Thirty people died and several were injured during the agitation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)To prevent death of newborns due to lack of medical emergency facilities in health centres, the Gujarat government has decided to launch a dedicated ambulance service toshift critically ill infants to better equipped hospitals.

Under the 'Neonatal ambulance service project for inter-hospital transfer', the government woulddeploy 10 specially-equipped ambulances across the state, a senior health official said.

The decision has been taken following the successful completion of a year-long pilot project undertaken at the JamnagarCivil Hospital, state health commissioner Dr Jayanti Ravi said.

A year ago, the Jamnagar Civil Hospital's superintendent mooted the idea of starting such a dedicated service, she said.

The superintendent cited many cases wherein newborns were required to be shiftedto the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital from Jamanagar for better treatment, she said.

"The journey takes about five hours and at times infants do notsurvive on reaching Ahmedabad," Ravi told PTI.

"Thus, we started a dedicated ambulance service at Jamnagar under a pilot project last year. We were able to save 43 newborns, thanks to the initiative. Now, we havedecided to start such a service for theentire state," she said.

Under the new project, 10 ambulances will be deployed in different hospitals across the state for responding to any requirement of urgent shifting of newborns to better equipped hospitals, such as the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, she said.

Some hospitals, like the primaryhealth centres in rural areas, may not have specialist doctors or equipment to deal with medical emergencies innewborns, Ravi said.

"We have seen this in the case of G K General Hospital (located at Bhuj in Kutch district) wherein parents came with their infants from far-flung areas, travelling in buses and autorickshaws in the scorchingheat. This delay was also a cause of infants' deaths," she noted.

Now, the aim is to minimise this delay so as to save babies, the health commissioner said.

The 10 dedicated ambulances will have theessential equipment, like baby warmer machines, to provide basic on- board treatment and comfort during the journey, she said.

"Thisfacility will be linked to the '108' service and people canseek its help in case of an emergency," she added.

As per the National Family Health Survey of 2015-16, the infant mortality rate in rural areas of Gujarat was 39 (per 1,000 live births) against 27 in urban areas.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A man who had allegedly obtained a loan from a public sector bank by mortgaging a land parcel after forging its documents was today arrested by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad.

Bhadresh Mehta, owner of Rajkot-based cotton trading firm Bhadresh Trading Corporation, was arrested from Ahmedabad in connection with a land fraud which is being probed by the CID, said Himanshu Shukla, Superintendent of Police, ATS.

Shukla said that Mehta would be handed over to the CID for further investigation.

"Mehta's firm, which trades in cotton, obtained a loan of several crore rupees by using a plot of land, belonging to another person, as mortgage," Ashish Bhatia, DGP (CID Crime) said.

Bhatia said that Mehta had only made part payment for this land belonging to a farmer in Gandhinagar's Dehgam area.

He allegedly forged this land parcel's documents and obtained a loan from a PSB, Bhatia informed.

The CID, which was probing the case, had asked for help from the ATS to nab Mehta, the DGP said.

"Mehta defaulted on loans and the banks are in the process of seizing his properties," Bhatia said.

Earlier, in 2016, the State Bank of India had told the Gujarat High Court that Mehta had taken loans of over Rs 1,450 crore from various banks and was irregular with repayment.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Haryana government has decided to file an appeal in the Supreme Court against the recent decision of the Punjab and Haryana High Court on



"employee regularisation policy", Finance Minister Capt Abhimanyu said today.

The court had recently set aside the "employee regularisation policy" whereby the previous state government had regularised the services of more than 20,000 contractual employees.

Addressing an Intellectuals Conference at Jhajjar on the completion of four years of the NDA government in Centre, Abhimanyu said, "the state government has decided to file an appeal in the Supreme Court.."



The previous Congress government led by Bhupinder Singh Hooda had issued three notifications in 2014, three months before the Assembly polls, and regularised contractual and ad-hoc employees, an official release here quoted Abhimanyu to say.

The minister said that the previous Congress government had left numerous flaws in both reservation to Jats and regularisation policies "for their political benefits".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)IAF chief B S Dhanoa will begin a four-day visit to Brazil tomorrow to explore possibilities of deeper defence cooperation between the two countries.

"The visit would provide further impetus towards increasing defence cooperation and pave the way for greater interaction and cooperation," the Indian Air Force (IAF) said.

The chief of air staff is also scheduled to visit various operational and training units of the Brazilian Air Force besides interacting with its senior functionaries.

"The visit would also strengthen relationships and enable engagement in productive exchanges between the two air forces," the IAF said.

It said the air chief marshal is embarking on the goodwill visit at the invitation of his Brazilian counterpart.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A VIP Embraer aircraft carrying External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to Mauritius, on her way to South Africa, had gone incommunicado for 14 minutes, triggering a mid-air scare after the Air Traffic Control of the island nation pressed the panic button, an official statement said today.

The Mauritian ATC could not establish contact with the Indian Air Force flight IFC 31 after it entered that country's airspace yesterday, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) said in a statement.

But instead of waiting for the mandatory 30 minutes, the Mauritian ATC activated the uncertainty phase, known as INCERFA in aviation parlance, it said.

The Ministry of External Affairs has not commented on the issue so far.

"Mauritius ATC activated the uncertainty phase without allowing the stipulated time period of 30 minutes to lapse from the time when the aircraft last contacted ATC. This was perhaps done because the flight was carrying a VIP," the AAI said.

The flight had left for Mauritius from Thiruvananthapuram at 2.08 pm. The Male ATC had established contact with the flight at 4.44 pm IST after it entered the airspace of the Maldives from the Indian airspace.

The IFC 31 could not contact the Mauritius ATC after entering the Mauritian airspace, causing panic. However, there was a sigh of relief when the aircraft came in contact with the ATC there at 4.58 pm, the AAI said.

Since the Embraer-135 aircraft, carrying the minister, does not have a long range, it had stopovers at Thiruvananthapuram and Mauritius for refuelling.

Government sources said the crew of the flight followed the laid down procedure to deal with the situation.

Swaraj today arrived in South Africa on a five-day visit during which she will attend the BRICS and IBSA meets -- the two major groups where India has been playing a major role. She will also meet the top leadership of the country.

BRICS is a five-nation economic bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, while IBSA is a platform for India, Brazil and South Africa to cooperate on matters of common interest in respect of global governance issues, including in the security domain.

An official conversant with the ATC issues over the Indian Ocean region told PTI that the problem in contacting the flight could have arisen due to weak radar coverage as flights have to rely on VHF communication, which have their own set of issues.

The uncertainty phase is the first of the three emergency phases, the other two being the alert phase and the distress phase.

During her transit halt in Mauritius, Swaraj met Prime Minister of the island nation Pravind Kumar Jugnauth.

According to External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, enhancing the ties between India and Mauritius was the focus of the meeting.

Swaraj also had an interaction with her Mauritian counterpart Seetanah Lutchmeenaraidoo.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India's export of finished steel slumped by 25.2 per cent to 0.558 million tonnes (MT) during April 2018, according to a report.

The country had exported 0.746 MT finished steel during the same month a year ago, the Joint Plant Committee (JPC) said it its latest report.

The JPC, under Ministry of Steel, is the only institution in the country that collects and maintains data on domestic steel and iron industry.

"At 0.558 MT, export of total finished steel was down by 25.2 per cent in April 2018 over April 2017," the report said.

The total output of finished steel for sale in April stood at 8.737 MT, up 5.4 per cent from 8.286 MT the country had produced in the same month last year, the report said.

Union Steel Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh had earlier said that India should export six to seven per cent of its total steel production.

As against exports, the imports grew 18.8 per cent to 0.599 MT during April, compared to 0.504 MT in the same month previous year.

India's consumption of total finished steel grew 8.2 per cent to 6.984 MT over April 2017, when the consumption was 6.454 MT, the report said.

"The consumption of total finished steel saw a growth of 8.2 per cent in April 2018 at 6.984 MT over April 2017, under the influence of a rising supply side as both production for sale and imports increased in April 2018 over April 2017," the JPC said.

The Cabinet, in May last year, approved National Steel Policy (NSP) 2017 that envisages Rs 10 trillion investment to take capacity to 300 million tonnes by 2030-31 to give a boost to the sector.

The NSP also aims at more than doubling the per capita steel consumption to 158 kg by 2030-31, from about 61 kg at present.will on Monday import its first ever cargo of from under a long-term deal as the world's fourth-largest buyer of (LNG) diversifies its import basket to meet its vast needs.

State-owned gas utility Ltd will bring the shipload of from at Ltd's import terminal here, official sources said. Beginning of supplies from comes within weeks of importing its first ever LNG cargo from US under a long-term import deal.

Like when the US LNG touched at Dabhol port in Maharashtra, Oil Minister will be at the terminal when the Russian gas arrives.

has renegotiated with Russian supplier the terms of the 20-year deal to import 2.5 million tonnes a year of LNG. Both price and volume ramp-up have been renegotiated.

Company Chairman and Managing Director B C Tripathi had last month stated in that the contracted volume has been lowered from 2.5 million tonnes to 0.5 MT in the first year 2018-19, 0.75 MT in 2019-20, 1.5 MT in the third year 2020-21.

has committed to importing the full 2.5 MT a year by the fourth year and make up for the initial volume reduction over the remaining length of the contract.

Also, the price indexation has been changed from the Customs-cleared Crude to Brent, and the oil-linked slope of the contract formula lowered, and therefore the final price.

Sources said the renegotiated contract provides for diverting a part of the volume, originally contracted on a delivered ex-ship basis, to other markets.

Under the re-worked deal with Gazprom, the duration of the contract has been extended by three years and the Indian company has agreed to buy an additional six million tonnes of LNG volumes.

The pricing of the super-cooled fuel has been changed from 9-month linkage to Japanese Customs cleared crude to three months average of Brent, sources said.

The deferral will allow GAIL more time to find customers for the imported gas.

GAIL had signed the original deal on August 29, 2012 with Marketing and Trading Pte Ltd (GMTS), The deal was renegotiated in January this year. Gazprom will supply LNG from project in the Arctic peninsula.

India has been making the most of its position as one of the world's biggest consumers to strike better bargains for its companies.

Last year, India got US major Corp to lower price of 1.5 MT a year of LNG from Gorgon project in Australia, saving Rs 4,000 crore in import bill. At the time of signing, in 2009, the Gorgon LNG price with US-based ExxonMobil was agreed upon was at 14.5 per cent.

In late 2015, it had renegotiated price of the long-term deal to import 7.5 MT per year of LNG from Qatar, helping save Rs 8,000 crore. The contract was renegotiated outside the contractually specified renegotiation period, with the eventual removal of the 60-day moving average ceiling and floor price and waiver of USD 1.5 billion in penalties under the take-or-pay clause for volumes that had not imported.

As a concession, Petronet agreed to buy an additional 1 MT a year and import all the volumes not taken during that time over the remainder of the contract, which runs until 2028. Most recently, GAIL has been trying to renegotiate the price and terms of 3.5 MT a year US Sabine Pass contract with Cheniere Energy.

The contract was signed on an FOB basis in 2011, with the price formula set at 115 per cent of the Henry Hub plus a fixed USD 3 per million British thermal unit terminal usage charge.

Sources said when the Russian deal was first signed, Gazprom envisaged supplying India with LNG from its planned Schtokman project in the Barents Sea, which was subsequently scrapped as the shale gas revolution in the removed a key customer base.

The resulting contractual inconsistency gave GAIL a foothold to re-open the Gazprom deal, sources said.Describing the Indo-Pacific as a "natural region", Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India's armed forces, especially the Navy, are building and expanding partnerships in the strategically vital region for peace and security as well as humanitarian assistance.

Ten countries of South East Asia connect the two great oceans - the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean -- in both the geographical and civilisational sense, Modi said.

Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality and unity, therefore, lie at the heart of the new Indo-Pacific, Prime Minister Modi said at the prestigious Shangri-La Dialogue here on Friday evening.

Expounding his vision of the Indo-Pacific region in a keynote address, Modi said, "India does not see the Indo-Pacific Region as a strategy or as a club of limited members, nor as a grouping that seeks to dominate".

The Indian armed forces, especially the Navy, are building partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region for peace and security, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, he said.

They train, exercise and conduct goodwill missions across the region.

For example, with Singapore, India has the longest un-interrupted naval exercise, which is in its 25th year now, he said, announcing that India will start a new tri-lateral exercise with Singapore soon and India hopes to extend it to other ASEAN countries.

"We work with partners like Vietnam to build mutual capabilities. India conducts Malabar Exercise with the United States and Japan. A number of regional partners join in India's Exercise Milan in the Indian Ocean, and participate in the RIMPAC in the Pacific," he said.

The prime minister noted that India was an active member in the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia.

He said his government's principal mission is to transform India to a 'New India' by 2022, when Independent India will be 75 years young.

Modi said it was possible for the world to rise above divisions and competition to work together and cited the example of the 10-member Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) as an example and inspiration.

"I am convinced that ASEAN can integrate the broader region. In many ways, ASEAN is already leading the process. In doing so, it has laid the foundation of the Indo-Pacific Region," he said.

The prime minister said the Indo-Pacific is a "natural region". It is also home to a vast array of global opportunities and challenges.

By no means India considers itself as directed against any country. A geographical definition, as such, cannot be. India's vision for the Indo-Pacific Region is, therefore, a positive one, Modi said.

Explaining India's stand, the prime minister said, New Delhi stood for a free, open, inclusive region, which embraces us all in a common pursuit of progress and prosperity. It includes all nations in this geography as also others beyond who have a stake in it.

India places Southeast Asia is at its centre and, the ASEAN grouping has been and will be central to its future.

He also underlined the need to have equal access as a right under international law to the use of common spaces on sea and in the air that would require freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.

His statement comes amidst China flexing its military muscles in the South and East China seas.

China claims almost all of South China Sea and also laid claims on the Senkaku islands under the control of Japan in East China Sea and resorted to aggressive patrols in the few years.

Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the South China Sea.

The US recently renamed its oldest and largest military command - the Pacific Command - to Indo-Pacific Command, in a largely symbolic move to signal India's importance.

Modi also underlined the need for good connectivity to enhance trade and prosperity. He noted that there are many connectivity initiatives in the region.

"They must empower nations, not place them under impossible debt burden. They must promote trade, not strategic competition. On these principles, we are prepared to work with everyone," he said amidst the growing global concern over the so-called Chinese model of "debt diplomacy."



He also made it clear that the region can prosper "if we do not return to the age of great power rivalries".

Modi stressed that India's friendships are not alliances of containment.

He assured that India's own engagement in the Indo-Pacific Region - from the shores of Africa to that of the Americas - will be inclusive.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi said, India will engage with the world in peace, with respect, through dialogue and absolute commitment to international law.India will promote a democratic and rules-based international order, in which all nations, small and large, thrive as equal and sovereign.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Traffic police constable Ranjeet Singh can easily be mistaken for a typical policeman who is assigned the difficult job to discipline chaotic traffic in Indore city.

However, for Singh manning traffic is like a mission and he executes it through "moonwalking"--a dance move immortalised by pop legend Michael Jackson.

Singh, clad in white shirt and blue trousers with sunglasses on, makes heads turn and drivers cannot fail to notice him across busy intersections in the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh when he moonwalks.

For Singh, the motivation to do something different so as to make people pay heed to follow traffic rules came after the death of his friend in a road accident a few years ago.

Singh (40) has been doing the "moonwalk" move to control traffic for the last 12 years.

The moonwalk is a pop dance move in which the dancer moves backwards while seemingly walking forwards.

However, after becoming a social media phenomenon, Singh now feels it taxing to cope with the growing demands of people who ask him to show his moves.

The constable, who has become a sort of celebrity, claims to have 1.38 followers on Facebook and 76,000 followers on Instagram.

"At times when I am extremely tired while doing my duty in scorching heat some vehicle drivers ask me to show the moonwalking moves. This is true that the social media has accorded a special status to a common police personnel like me, however, at the same time, I also experience the unnecessary burden of expectations of the people due to the social media," he told PTI.

Singh said sometimes he felt difficult to bear this burden.

"I am in police force where discipline is supreme. My moonwalking act on road is aimed at performing my duty in a better way," he said.

A number of photos and videos of Singh in the act are being shared on the social media.

For Singh, the motivation to do something different to make people pay heed to follow traffic rules came after the death of his friend in a road accident.

"One of my friends had died in a road accident when he was on his way to meet me a few years ago. After this incident, I thought I should do something different to make people follow traffic rules," he recalled.

Singh's moonwalking evokes awe and ridicule at the same time.

Sharing various experiences, the constable also recalled how some people laugh at him and whisper among themselves over his style.

Singh said he was now used to different kind of reactions his moonwalking evokes at traffic signals.

"Besides the social media, I also receive strange reactions in real life as well. My father is a police officer and he has reprimanded me a couple of times because of my moonwalk, but I know what I am doing," he said.

Singh's intention is to make people obey traffic rules through "moonwalking", which he feels would reduce number of accidents and save many lives.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A member of an international fake Indian currency note (FICN) syndicate, carrying a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh on his head, was caught by the Delhi Police from Haryana, police said today.

The accused, Narender aka Secretary, was caught by a Special Cell team from his hometown Rohtak on May 31, said P S Kushwah, deputy commissioner of police (Special Cell).

Fifteen fake currency notes in the denomination of Rs 2,000 were recovered from him.

Narender was arrested earlier by Faridabad, Sirsa and Rohtak police in 2013-14, in connection with the FICN circulation, the officer said.

The Special Cell also arrested him with fake currency notes to the tune of Rs 3 lakh in 2016.

After being released from jail, he was being monitored by the Special Cell.

He was accompanied by his associate and namesake Narender (II) where he was trying to source FICN from Malda (WB) bordering Bangladesh, Kushelwah said.

In January this year Narender (II) was caught with FICN worth Rs 3 lakh.

Following this, Narender aka Secretary evaded arrest and a reward of Rs 1 lakh was announced by the commissioner of the Delhi Police on information leading to his arrest, he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)International passengers buying goods at airport 'duty-free' shops will not be subject to GST and the revenue department will soon clarify on this exemption, an official said.

Following an order passed in March by the New Delhi bench of the Authority for Advance Ruling (AAR) stating that GST would be leviable on sale of goods from 'duty-free' shops at airports, the revenue department had received a number of representations seeking clarification on the issue.

"The position of the revenue department has always been that we cannot export our taxes. We will issue clarification stating that duty free shops would not levy GST," the official told PTI.

The revenue department will clarify that duty-free shops will have to only collect a copy of the passport from the passenger to whom it sells the goods and later on seek GST refund from the government, the official added.

This means, like exporters, duty-free shops can claim refund from the government for the GST it has paid in procuring goods from manufacturers. The copy of passport will be treated as proof of sale of the goods.

Experts said that the Authority for Advance Ruling (AAR) order had put such shops in a fix, since they were exempt from central sales tax (CST) and value added tax (VAT) in the earlier indirect tax regime. In the erstwhile regime, sale from such shops were considered as exports and supplies were taking place beyond the 'customs frontiers' of India.

AMRG & Associates Partner Rajat Mohan said 'Duty-free' shops enjoy a tax neutral status globally as a matter of International understanding.

"The GST policy wing is planning to come out with a circular clarifying on the zero-rating status of such Duty Free shops and circular may also outlay a detailed procedure of claiming refund of the taxes so paid," Mohan said.

EY Partner Abhishek Jain said such transactions are akin to exports and it is a stated policy that tax should not be levied on export of goods.

"This would bring a lot of relief to duty free shops and would keep them competitive with duty free shops in other countries," Jain added.

The AAR held that the supply of goods to international passengers going abroad from 'duty free' shops are happening within the territory of India under the Central GST Act.

Since the 'duty free' shops are situated within the territory of India and was not taking goods out of India, hence their supply cannot be called 'export' under Section 2(5) of the IGST Act, 2017, or 'zero rated supply' under Section 2(23) and Section 16(1) of the IGST Act,2017.

Under section 2(5) of the IGST Act, export of goods takes place only when goods are taken out to a place outside India. The country is defined under Section 2(27) of the Customs Act as "India includes the territorial waters of India".

Under Section 2(56) of the CGST Act, India means the territory of India, including its territorial waters and the air space above its territory and territorial waters.

Hence, the goods can be said to be exported only when they cross the territorial waters of India and the goods cannot be called to be exported merely on crossing the Customs Frontiers of India, as per the discussions before the AAR.

The Delhi AAR in case of ROD Retail Private Ltd ruled against the age-old policy of not levying taxes on them by ordering that GST will be payable by duty-free shops in India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An Iraq court today sentenced a French woman to life in jail for membership of the Islamic State group as her lawyers accused authorities in Paris of "interference" to prevent her return to France.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country and was set to be deported back to France.

But another court ordered the re-trial of the 27-year-old French citizen under Iraq's anti-terrorist law and on Sunday she was found guilty of belonging to IS.

"I am innocent," Boughedir told the judge in French.

"My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said.

"I am opposed to the ideology of the Islamic group and condemn the actions of my husband," she added.

Her Iraqi lawyer, Nasureddin Madlul Abd, urged the court to acquit Boughedir, describing her spouse as a "jailkeeper not a husband" who had "forced" her to join him in Iraq.

Her French defence team -- William Bourdon, Martin Pradel and Vincent Brengarth -- said they were "relieved" she had been spared the death penalty, but vowed to appeal the verdict.

Boughedir, who wore a black dress and a black headscarf, arrived in the courtroom carrying her youngest daughter in her arms. Her three other children are now back in France.

Hers is the latest in a series of verdicts doled out to foreigners who flocked to join IS in its self-declared "caliphate" after the jihadist group seized the northern third of Iraq and swathes of Syria in 2014.

On May 22, an Iraqi court sentenced Belgian jihadist Tarik Jadaoun, also known as Abu Hamza al-Beljiki, to death by hanging -- although he pleaded not guilty to a range of terror charges.

Jadaoun had earned the moniker "the new Abaaoud", after his compatriot Abdelhamid Abaaoud, one of the organisers of November 2015 attacks in Paris.

Even before she was sentenced, Boughedir's case sparked anger from her defence team, who had accused French authorities of interfering in the case.

On Thursday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told French channel LCI that Boughedir was a "Daesh (IS) terrorist who fought against Iraq" and said she should be tried on Iraqi soil.

Her French lawyers sent a letter of protest to Le Drian, seen by AFP, in which they denounced "pressure on the Iraqi judicial system" and "unacceptable interference".

Bourdon on Sunday condemned the verdict, saying it had been influenced by "extra-judicial reasons".

During the hearing, which lasted about one hour, the judge asked Boughedir -- who was arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul -- to explain why and under what circumstances she had arrived in Iraq.

He then declared that "the proof that has been gathered is enough to condemn the criminal to life in jail" -- which in Iraq means 20 years minus time already served.

Bourdon said Le Drian wanted his client to be tried in Iraq to "ensure that she won't be heading back home to France any time soon", as part of efforts to prevent the return of jihadists.

Boughedir's family and her defence team want her to face a court in France, Bourdon said.

After being sentenced in February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry, she was set to be deported back to France.

But upon re-examining her file, an Iraqi court said she had "knowingly" followed her husband to Iraq to join IS.

Boughedir's husband is believed to have been killed during a vast operation by US-led coalition-backed Iraqi forces to regain control of Mosul, Iraq's second city and the jihadists' former stronghold.

Today she told the court that the man she had been married to for five years had disappeared one day, walking out and saying he was going out "to look for water".

Since then, she said, she had received no information about his fate or his whereabouts.

Boughedir is the second French citizen sentenced to life in prison by an Iraqi court for belonging to IS, after Djamila Boutoutaou, 29, in April. Boutoutaou also said she had been tricked by her husband.

Thousands of foreign fighters from across the world flocked to the black banner of the jihadists after the group seized swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A senior National Conference (NC) leader today expressed grave concern over the increased shelling from across the border, saying the people along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir had virtually become fodder for Pakistani cannons.

"The BJP has made border dwellers fodder for Pakistani cannons. The BJP-led government at the Centre cannot shrug off its responsibility for the volatile situation on borders, as it has completely failed in instilling a sense of security among the border dwellers due to policy paralysis," NC provincial president and MLA Devender Singh Ranatold reporters at the sidelines of a function here.

He said instead of insulating the residents of forward areas from recurring border skirmishes, the central government is sending confusing signals to compatriots.

"For the past four years, the Centre has neither been able to settle the issues with Pakistan through dialogue to hold the ceasefire agreement reached during the tenure of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2003 nor is there any roadmap to counter the incessant shelling," Rana said.

"In the process, the people of Jammu and Kashmir especially those on the borders, are living in perpetual fear," he said.

Rana asked the BJP as to where had its bravado of 2014 vanish.

"Due to jingoistic posturing, the situation has been allowed to drift without any concrete response to the hostilities, as a result of which the people of the forward areas are made to run helter-skelter for their lives," he said.

Stating that the scenario across the LoC and IB is quite volatile, Rana said, "Today, the tremors of shelling and gun roars were even heard in the Jammu city and its peripheries, which reflects the enormity of the border situation."



He lauded the resilience of the people in braving the brunt with fortitude.

The provincial president also criticised the PDP-BJP government for its "insensitivity" towards the border people, saying "it has abdicated its responsibilities in ensuring their safety".

"The government which fails in instilling confidence among the people has no right to govern, he said, adding that propriety demands the coalition partners to put in they papers as it has failed to deliver.

He claimed that the victims of the cross-border shelling have not been compensated and what's even worse the administration has not even made an attempt to assess losses and damages suffered by the residents.

"The entire population been robbed of their livelihood, children deprived of their studies, farmers restrained from farming and private property has suffered the brunt, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has begun the process of installing a "charkha" (spinning wheel) made of stainless steel in front of the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, KVIC Chairman Vinai Kumar Saxena said.

The installation on the bank of the Sabarmati river, opposite to the ashram, will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Gandhi, which will be celebrated in 2019.

Much like the Taj Mahal and the Lal Quila on opposite banks of the Yamuna river at Agra, the "charkha" would be a first-of-its-kind in Gujarat, the native state of Mahatma Gandhi, Saxena said.

The 11-foot-tall, 22-foot-long, 6.5-foot-broad spinning wheel is made of high-quality chromium-nickel stainless and is corrosion resistant, non-magnetic and will not get hardened due to heat, the KVIC said in a press release.

Saxena said after getting the official consent for the installation of the "charkha" from the Sabarmati River Front Development Corporation Limited, the KVIC began the piling work of a four-foot-high granite platform near gate number 3 of Subhas Bridge Riverfront Park.

"It would be a proud moment for the KVIC as the nation's global symbol of peace, non-violence and self-reliance would spread its legacy across the world.

"It was the dream and vision of our Prime Minister, Narendra Modiji, to take charkha to the global level and the KVIC has started taking this tool of warp and weft of our social fabric abroad, following our PM's vision," he added.

Over the last three years, the KVIC has installed the world's largest wooden "charkha" at the Delhi airport and a 12 feet by 25 feet steel "charkha" at Rajiv Chowk in the national capital.

During the Champaran Satyagrah centenary celebrations, the KVIC had installed an 18-foot-long, 5.75-foot-wide and nine-foot-high steel "charkha" in front of the Gandhi Museum in Motihari, Bihar.

It had also donated a "charkha" to the Gandhi Heritage Site at Jinja in Uganda on October 2 last year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The latest attack on Indian forward points by Pakistani forces, in which two BSF jawans were killed today, has yet again proved that Islamabad said one thing and did another, a senior official said here.

Inspector General of Border Security Force (BSF), Jammu frontier, Ram Awtar also ruled out that sniping or an attack by enemy personnel wearing 'thermal camouflage suits' led to the two casualties on the International Border (IB) here.

Both BSF personnel fell to cross-border firing from Pakistan, he said.

Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey - both residents of Uttar Pardesh - were killed and 13 civilians injured in unprovoked and indiscriminate firing by Pakistani rangers in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district today, officials said.

The violation comes nearly a week after DGMOs of both countries agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".

Awtar said the ceasefire violation by Pakistan after the recent DGMO level talks between New Delhi and Islamabad again proved that the neighbouring country's words did not match its deeds.

It is saying something but doing something else. The latest incident proved it once again, he said. Awtar said the BSF was strictly implementing the decision taken at the DGMO level by the two countries last week.

Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed, he said referring to the latest incident. It was targeted firing on forward duty points by Pakistan, he added.

Talking to reporters after the wreath laying ceremony of the deceased personnel at the force headquarters here, the senior BSF officer said the casualties were not the result of sniping but of sudden cross-border firing from Pakistan.

We have strongly responded and in the coming days we will come to know about the damage suffered by Pakistan in the retaliatory action, he said.

He said the BSF did not target civilian locations but Pakistani forces did.

We only targeted the locations that targeted us but Pakistan, on the other hand, started targeting civilian areas of Pragwal and Kanachak since wee hours resulting in civilian casualties and damage to civil property, Awtar said.

Asked about rumours suggesting the casualties were caused by personnel wearing 'thermal camouflage suits' to avoid detection, he said I don't think something like that happened in this case.

There is a need to study this case thoroughly.After every incident we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well, the BSF IG said.

Earlier today, the bodies of two slain personnel were brought to the BSF headquarters where the wreath ceremony was held to bid farewell to them.

State Power Minister Sunil Sharma and former health minister Bali Baghat joined senior BSF, police and civil officers to pay tributes to the slain personnel whose bodies were later sent to their hometowns in Uttar Pradesh.

Power Minister Sharma warned Pakistan to desist from such activities or get ready to be wiped out from the face of the earth.

This time the central government is very determined and our message to Pakistan is to either change or get ready to be wiped out, the power minister said.

He saluted the bravery of the security personnel and said there is tolerance level and India has shown much patience. I think the time has come we should teach Pakistan a lesson for its misadventures.

He lauded border residents for braving frequent Pakistan shelling and said the time was not far when they will get rid of this menace.

Though it is the domain of the centre, defence ministry and defence strategists, we understand that we are not going to tolerate the killings anymore. We are making our efforts to normalize the situation but they are showing desperation and hurling grenades and firing on the borders, he said. India would not be cowed down by such actions, he asserted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The unilateral ceasefire during the holy month of Ramzan may have brought a halt to anti-militancy operations in Kashmir but security agencies have warned of a rise in recruitment of local youths into militant groups, that has crossed 80, and a rise in infiltration from various sides of the Line of Control (LoC).

The security agency officials said the highly-volatile Shopian and Pulwama districts in South Kashmir continued to contribute more youths to the militant groups which included outfits like ISIS-Kashmir and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, a group which claims support of the Al-Qaeda.

As many as 20 more youths have joined the militant groups in the month of May which included Rouf from Ganderbal, a fourth-semester student pursuing a diploma course in government polytechnic, the officials said.

A Unani doctor, the brother of IPS officer Inamulhaq Mengnoo, has also been reported missing from Shopian and it is apprehended that he too may have joined terror groups, they said, adding that the figure at the end of April this year was 45.

The officials said another 16 were missing mainly from the twin districts and a probe was on to ascertain whether they have joined any terror group.

The officials said infiltration was also picking up and some of the terrorists had managed to sneak in from Poonch and Rajouri district of Jammu region as well as from the LoC in the Kashmir Valley. This created a more alarming situation for the security forces which were readying themselves for the two-month long Amarnath Yatra beginning this month-end.

Year 2018, according to the officials, may end up as the worst year in terms of number of youths joining various militant groups as the figures indicated that 81 youths had joined until May this year. In 2017, a total of 126 youths had picked up guns. It was the highest number since 2010, according to a recent data presented in the state assembly and Parliament.

There has been a steady rise in the number of youth taking up arms in the Valley since 2014 onwards as compared to 2010-2013 when figures stood at 54, 23, 21 and 6 in the respective years. In 2014, the number shot up to 53 and in 2015, it reached 66 before touching the highest mark of 88 in 2016, the data showed.

This year's recruitment of youth joining militancy includes Junaid Ashraf Sehrai, 26, an MBA degree holder from Kashmir University, and son of Mohammed Ashraf Sehrai, who took over as chairman of Tehrek-e-Hurriyat from Syed Ali Shah Geelani. Teherik-e-Hurriyat is a pro-Pakistan amalgam of separatists groups.

The list also includes a 26-year-old PhD scholar Mannan Bashir Wani hailing from Kupwara, officials said. Wani was studying in the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).

According to a report prepared by the Jammu and Kashmir CID, which has been shared with the Union Home Ministry, the past three years have witnessed a consistent rise in the number of active local militants even in the face of successful anti-militancy operations undertaken by the security forces.

"It therefore become imperative for the state to deconstruct why, while militants are being killed, militancy continues to rise," the report had said.

The report said the situation is such that terrorists encounters "have turned into a spectacle in the recent years with attacks on encounter sites by protesters followed by glamourised funerals."



"The entire phenomenon has had a tendency to create an emotionally charged environment which is ideal for recruiting fresh cadres," it said.

The report, while drawing a correlation between the militants killed in encounters and the new recruitment, said, "It has been found that encounters of local militants are part of a vicious circle that acts as a catalyst to push further recruitment."



"Large glorified funerals of militants have also been witnessing presence of active militants who give gun salutes to their killed associate.

"The presence of militants in these funerals not only eulogises the deaths of militants but at the same time brings the active militants into open interaction with civilians," the report said, warning that such an interaction was one of the important steps in facilitating recruitment.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)State-run power firm Mahagenco is not keen on taking over the Rs 3,000-crore debt RattanIndia Power owes to Power Finance Corporation (PFC), by buying the former's thermal project in Nashik, a top official said.

RattanIndia Nasik Power, a subsidiary of RattanIndia Power, had proposed a 2,700 MW project, out of which 1,350 MW has been commissioned so far, as per the company's website.

PFC had earlier said it is in talks with the state government to take over one of the asset of RattanIndia in Nashik to recover its dues.

"Yes we have got the proposal from PFC to take over the RattanIndia's thermal power plant in Nashik and we are currently evaluating its feasibility," state principal secretary (energy) Arvind Singh told PTI.

However, according to the Maharashtra State Power Generation Company (Mahagenco), taking over the project will not be a viable proposition, as the plant is facing issues like lack of proper rail connectivity for coal supply and water shortage.

"Taking over the project is like buying a white elephant. They (PFC) had said that since Mahagenco already has a 630 MW (210 MW x 3) plant near Nashik at Eklahare village, and RattanIndia's project is new, it will help the state add to its thermal capacity," a top Mahagenco official told PTI on condition of anonymity.

He further said the project is facing many challenges and is currently stranded.

"Already, we are facing coal supply issues, mainly because of lack of adequate railway connectivity. Therefore, the new project will further add to our woes," he added.

PFC, which has an exposure to the tune of Rs 51,000 crore to the private sector, has nearly Rs 31,000 crore worth of stressed loan assets.

As the part of its resolution plan, the company has taken various initiatives to recover the dues, by offering the stressed assets for sale.

Around nine projects with a cumulative exposure of Rs 8,100 crore are being resolved through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

"We have time till August, and by then we hope to finalise resolution plans for most of our stressed assets. If we are unable to come to a resolution, the projects will then by default go to the NCLT," PFC chairman and managing director Rajeev Sharma had said earlier.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The city police has arrested a 40-year-old woman and her accomplice for allegedly killing her husband following a feud over a property worth nearly Rs 15 crore, an official said today.

The victim, Shankar Gaikwad (44), a resident of the Kalyan township here, had gone missing on May 18 and the killing came to light after his body was recovered on June 1.

His wife, Asha Gaikwad, allegedly plotted the killing with the help of her accomplice, identified as Himanshu Dubey.

Both were arrested and a search was on for four other persons, who were also allegedly involved in the crime, the police official said.

The police suspect that the root of the chilling incident lies in the properties owned by the victim.

Shankar Gaikwad had apparently transferred most of his properties in his wife's name, the official said.

The police suspect that the woman had sold most of the assets and eyed another property worth Rs 15 crore, which her husband was not ready to part with as it belonged to his father.

Following the dispute, the woman allegedly roped-in Dubey and paid him Rs 4 lakh advance, out of the total promised Rs 30 lakh, to get rid of her husband, the police said based on a complaint filed by the victim's brother.

On May 18, she took her husband to the Badlapur town in an autorickshaw and gave him a sedative-laced drink.

After he fell unconscious, the woman and the other accused allegedly hit him with iron rods and stabbed him to death with a sharp weapon, the police official said.

The accused then dumped the body at an isolated place, he said.

On May 21, the woman herself lodged a police complaint about her husband going missing.

Later, the victim's family members raised suspicion that his wife might have killed him over a property row and approached the police for a proper probe into the matter and to find Shankar Gaikwad.

The police then scanned the woman's call records and after joining the dots managed to crack the case and also recovered the body from Neral near Karjat on June 1.

However, during questioning, the woman gave a different version saying the killing was an outcome of the fights between them over her frequent phone chats, the police official said.

Apart from the two arrested accused, four others were also booked for their alleged involvement in the crime and a search was on for them, Kolshewadi police inspector K K Gavit said.

Offences were registered against the accused under Indian Penal Code sections 302 (murder), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 201 (causing disappearance of evidence) and 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention), he said.

The couple has two daughters and as many sons, the police added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart K P Sharma Oli today jointly laid the foundation stone of the 900-megawatt Arun III Hydroelectric Power Plant in Tumlingtar area in eastern Nepal through a remote system here.

The project is expected to bring in USD 1.5 billion foreign direct investment into Nepal and create jobs for thousands of people.

Investment Board Nepal (IBN) recently granted the licence to Satluj Jala Vodyut Nigam Power Development Company, a subsidiary of Indian government-owned Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd, to generate power from the Arun-III Hydropower Project, nearly 500-km from Kathmandu.

The permit was granted in line with the decision of the 30th meeting of IBN's board of directors chaired by Prime Minister Oli on April 28, according to an IBN official.

Arun-III is the largest capacity project in the history of hydroelectricity that is scheduled to be constructed within the next five years.

Nepal is currently facing shortage of power and the production of hydropower from the project will mainly serve its domestic demands.

The Nepal government will receive benefits worth Nepali Rupees 348 billion from the project as royalty, income tax, customs tariff and free energy in the concession period of 25 years. The project will also provide 21.9 per cent or 197 megawatts of the generated energy free of cost to Nepal.

Last month, the compound wall of the Arun-III plant's office in Tumlingtar area was damaged in the explosion, weeks before its inauguration.

India had asked Nepal to investigate the explosion that caused minor damaged to the office. However, no one was injured in the blast.

Following the incident, security was stepped up in the area.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Top officials of both public and private banks will tomorrow brief a parliamentary panel on the issue of mounting Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and banking frauds.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance headed by Verappa Moily has called the Indian Banks' Association officials to appear before it tomorrow.

The association has top officials of all the major banks in the country as its member.

As per a Lok Sabha bulletin, the panel will be briefed on the issue of rising NPAs and other matters related to banks.

Members of the panel said there will also be discussion on the recent frauds in the banks.

The meeting is being called after the RBI governor Urjit Patel had said the Central Bank did not have adequate powers to deal with public sector banks.

The panel has also called Patel to brief on the same issue later this month.

The committee was earlier briefed by Financial Services Secretary Rajiv Kumar about issues related to the banking sector.

Earlier, bankers appearing before a different parliamentary panel had said the 180-day resolution plan for NPAs under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) was not an adequate window.

They had also suggested the emphasis should be on restructuring the stressed assets and that referring cases for resolution under the IBC should be the last option.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh, who is also a member of the committee, is likely to attend the meeting.

Gross NPAs of state-owned banks had crossed Rs 7.77 lakh crore at the end of December 2017, according to official data.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Multi-channel home shopping company Naaptol will set up a total of 150 franchise stores across the country over the next two financial years, a senior company official said today.

The company has already opened four stores through the franchisee route, including launching its first franchise store in Hyderabad today.

"We have planned to open 27 more franchise stores this year and altogether we have planned to set up 150 franchise stores in next two financial years," Naaptol (Business Head) Manish Chaubey told reporters here.

Naaptol has 13 fulfilment centres, he said.

The company reported Rs 628 crore in revenue from commission for 2017-18.

"This financial year we are targetting a 20 per cent increase in revenuefrom commission as compared to last year," he said.

Chaubey further said "We expect the company to break even by the end of this fiscal. We are looking to go for Initial Public Offering (IPO) by 2021-22," he said.

However, he declined to comment on how much amount they planned to raise.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Hailing the "strong leadership" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan has said the NDA will win the 2019 Lok Sabha polls with a "thumping majority" as he termed the opposition unity in the recent bypolls as "short-lived".

Stating that the opposition was in the "weakest position" on the leadership issue, Paswan said he wondered if anyone would accept the leadership of Congress President Rahul Gandhi.

"The leadership issue in the NDA is crystal clear and it would fight the 2019 general elections under the strong leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he told PTI-Bhasha.

The unity or adjustment for one or two seats was easy, but it's difficult for political parties to accomodate their ranks and leaders for an entire state or the country, he said on the recent bypoll victories of the unified opposition.

The opposition unity in the by-elections will be short-lived, he asserted.

Paswan's remarks come days after he urged the NDA leaders to desist from making off-the-cuff remarks and be "more tactful" during elections, in the wake of the party's poor showing in the March bypolls in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Paswan, who heads the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), a BJP ally in the NDA, had also expressed concern over some leaders of the ruling coalition at the Centre occasionally making remarks that created an impression of the alliance being against certain sections of the society.

Questioning the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, Paswan asked: "Who will be their leader? Rahul Gandhi ko kya koi neta manta hai (Does anyone accept Rahul Gandhi as a leader)?"



Paswan said he foresaw problems of seat adjustments amongst the opposition parties during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

"In this situation, if the opposition wants to go ahead for a pre-poll alliance in 2019, what will be its shape? Which party will get what share? Will the SP be ready to accommodate the BSP on 40 parliamentary seats? If so, what share will the Congress and the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) of Ajit Singh get?" he asked.

These are the big questions that the opposition needs to answer before it reaches a real unity, Paswan said.

He recalled that in UP during the last year's Assembly elections, the BSP fought all seats and the SP contested all seats in alliance with the Congress, while the RLD fought separately for most of the Assembly seats in the western UP.

Similarly, in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, all major parties -- the BJP, the Congress, the SP and the BSP -- fought elections for all the 80 constituencies.

While the BJP with its allies won a total of 73 seats, the SP won five and the Congress could win only two seats in Amethi and Raebareli, he added.

"If the big political parties relinquish their traditional seats for their alliance partners, what the reaction of the party workers in those constituencies would be simply unimaginable," he said.

He sought to ask the Congress if it would accept the leadership of a regional party like Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party or Mayawati of the BSP or Mamata Bannerji of the TMC in case the joint opposition did not accept Rahul Gandhi's leadership.

He said: "I want a strong opposition to be in place for our democracy to be strong. But, unfortunately the talk of the opposition unity is a farce as during the elections there is bound to be a big fight among all the parties on the issue of seat distribution."



The union minister said he had already made it clear that as of now there is no vacancy for the post of prime minister in the country because NDA would win the 2019 parliamentary elections with a thumping majority.

Paswan and Mansukh L Mandaviya, Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, were here on Friday to highlight the four years of achievements of the NDA government.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The JD(U) core committee met here today ahead of a meeting of the National Democratic Alliance scheduled later this week, after which a senior party leader said Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is the face of the NDA in Bihar.

Kumar, also the JD(U) national president, held the core committee meeting at his residence.

JD(U) national general secretaries K C Tyagi and Pavan Varma, who arrived from New Delhi, poll strategist Prashant Kishor and a few other state leaders took part in the meeting.

The meeting assumes significance as the BJP-led NDA, which the JD(U) joined in August last year, is scheduled to hold a meeting in Bihar on June 7. During the NDA meeting, to be attended by Kumar, the coalition partners are likely to discuss their strategy in the state for the next Lok Sabha polls.

Emerging out of the chief minister's residence after the meeting, Varma told reporters that Kumar "is the face of the NDA in Bihar, that is why he is the chief minister. JD(U) is the largest constituent of the coalition".

Varma's remark assumes significance amidst speculation in political circles here that the JD(U), which has only two Lok Sabha members, might press for a seat-sharing arrangement commensurate with its strength in the Bihar assembly where it has about 70 MLAs against nearly 50 of the BJP.

Besides the JD(U) and the BJP, the NDA in Bihar comprises Ram Vilas Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party and Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samata Party.

The BJP had bagged 22 out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats in the state in 2014, when the JD(U) had fought separately.

However, in the wake of the poor show by the BJP in a number of bypolls recently, its allies have started voicing the need for better coordination within the NDA instead of a "big brotherly attitude" displayed by the senior coalition partner.

Asked about Kumar's renewed demand for special status to Bihar, Varma said "the party had never given up the demand. To fight for this legitimate right of the state is the JD(U)'s commitment".

He, however, declined to divulge the details of the consultations held with Kumar.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)There is no vacancy for the prime minister's post in 2019, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi today said, and expressed hope that BJP-led coalition will retain power in the next Lok Sabha polls.

The "anti-Modi front" has over two dozen aspirants for the prime ministerial post but they will not be able to provide stability, he claimed.

Naqvi alleged that some political forces were trying to disturb the Narendra Modi-led government's agenda of development, peace and prosperity by creating fear among the minorities.

The minorities in India are safe and their rights are secured, he asserted.

"The people of the country are with the development agenda of the Modi-led government. But there are some people who want to hamper it," he said at a press conference here.

"There are some people who are standing with the anti-Modi front but they should understand that there is no vacancy for the prime minister's post in 2019," he said.

The minority affairs minister was in Goa to highlight the achievements of the central government led by Narendra Modi, in the four years it has been in power.

Naqvi said Modi was committed to inclusive growth and development.

"You can see results on the ground. The government has taken development as a mission," he asserted.

"The 'common minimum commitment' of the anti-Modi alliance is corruption, contradiction and confusion, while our biggest fight is for development with dignity," he said.

Right from demonetisation to surgical strike, important decisions are taken by the prime minister and the positive impacts are seen in the country, he said.

Naqvi said the anti-Modi morcha has more than two dozen aspirants for the prime ministerial post who, he claimed, will fight among themselves. "There is a long queue in the anti-Modi front. So they cannot provide stability."



Naqvi ruled out possibility of the BJP changing its face in the next year's Lok Sabha polls.

"Our leader is Narendra Modi and under his leadership we would fight the 2019 elections to seek votes from people of the country. I am confident that people are in favour of development, and are against an anarchist alliance," he said.

To a question, Naqvi said a political consensus is required to hold simultaneous polls for the Lok Sabha and the state Legislative Assemblies.

Simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and the Vidhan Sabha are in the interest of the country. "That is why the prime minister requested all political parties to think about it."



Some political parties have responded positively, some have not, he said.

"I feel in the interest of democracy and the country, it is necessary that simultaneous elections are held. But for that you require consensus among the political parties," he said.

To a question on alleged fear among minorities, Naqvi said, "Unfortunately some political forces are trying to disturb the agenda of development, peace and prosperity."



"If you leave some isolated incidents, in the last four years there have been no major communal incidents. Some isolated incidents have happened. And those isolated incidents were controlled timely and action was taken," he said.

The minister said those involved in such incidents were arrested and sent to jail.

"The minorities in India are safe and their rights secured compared to any other democratic country (in the world). Our stand towards development of minorities is not related to vote bank," he said.

In the last four years, the Centre has worked for the weaker sections and minorities, he said.

"Before we took over, the school dropout rate among girls from the minority communities was over 72 per cent, now it has reduced to 42 per cent. Our commitment is that in the coming two years, we want zero dropout rate from any section of the society, specially the poor and minorities," he said.

Listing out the government's welfare schemes, he said in the last four years, the Centre has distributed scholarships worth Rs 2.66 crore to minorities, of which more than 50 per cent was meant for girls.

On the employment front for minorities, he said, the government has provided jobs to 5.43 lakh people and created employment opportunities in the last four years.

To a question on if the BJP would continue its tie-up with other NDA partners in the 2019 elections, Naqvi said the BJP is honest to the alliance and committed towards it.

"In 2014, we had the full mandate and numbers. But we formed the government with the alliance partners. Even today, we are honest to the alliance and we are committed to it," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Policymakers, bureaucrats, academicians and journalists will discuss topics linked to politics, business and healthcare among others at the second edition of Oxford University Press' South Asia Conclave on July 4.

The conclave seeks to closely examine the key issues affecting Indian politics, business and politics, political finance, civil-military relations and healthcare policy and, become a major platform to discuss issues pertaining to South Asia and develop a deeper understanding.

Some of the speakers include Union minister Jayant Sinha, Congress MP Rajeev Gowda, former CEC SY Quraishi and journalist Shekhar Gupta.

The conference will be chaired by Ashutosh Varshney, professor of Political Science and Director of the Center for Contemporary South Asia, Brown University, and co-chaired by Pradeep Chhibber, professor of Political Science and Director of the Institute of International Studies at the University of California.

"We see the conclave evolve into a major platform for talking about key issues and challenges that concern South Asia at present," says Sugata Ghosh, director of academic publishing at Oxford University Press India.

"In debating and discussing these issues we seek to stimulate informed dialogue between the participants, thereby making new research ideas available to the larger public," he adds.

Home to approximately 24 per cent of the world's population, South Asia is known for its astounding cultural diversity. The region's economic growth, according to the recent World Bank South Asia Economic Focus, is anticipated to accelerate from 7.1 per cent in 2016 to 7.3 per cent in 2017, reaching 7.4 per cent in 2018 and 7.5 per cent in 2019.

The region faces an array of challenges in making healthcare, livelihood, education, and security available to its citizens. Politics based on identities rather than socioeconomic programmes remains a dominant force.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Shiv Sena may have lost the just held Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll, but it managed to get more votes in the Assembly seats falling under the parliamentary constituency when compared to the 2014 Maharashtra elections.

The Sena got over 60,000 more votes, while despite winning the seat, the BJP saw its vote count dropping in the tribal-dominated constituency.

Sena candidate Shrinivas Wanaga lost to BJP nominee Rajendra Gavit by a margin of 29,572 votes in the by-election held on May 28. The result in the tribal-reserved Lok Sabha seat located adjoining Mumbai was declared on May 31.

The Palghar bypoll was necessitated due to the death of sitting BJP MP Chintaman Wanaga.

A comparison of the total votes polled in the six Assembly seats of the Palghar Lok Sabha seat in the 2014 state elections to that of the Lok Sabha bypoll held last month shows the Sena's vote share has gone up in the area.

The Sena did not fight the April-May 2014 Lok Sabha poll from Palghar as part of its seat-sharing arrangement with the ally BJP, which won the seat. However, there was no alliance between them for the October 2014 Assembly polls.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led party had contested all the six Assembly seats falling under the Lok Sabha constituency - Dahanu (ST), Vikramgad (ST), Palghar (ST), Boisar (ST), Vasai and Nalasopara.

Of these, the Sena won just one Assembly seat - Palghar (ST).

The Sena had polled a total of 1,82,343 votes in the six seats in 2014, while in the May 28 Lok Sabha bypoll, the party candidate secured 2,43,210 votes in these segments, a rise of 60,867 votes compared to the state polls held four years back.

Interestingly, the BJP suffered a loss in the voting percentage though it managed win the Lok Sabha seat.

In 2014, the BJP got 5,33,201 votes in the Palghar Lok Sabha election, while in the recent bypoll, it got 2,72,782 votes, a decline of 2,60,419 votes.

Besides the Sena, the Congress' vote share went up by 39,757 this time as compared to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Sachin Shingda (a Congress leader who fought as an Independent) had polled just 7,957 votes. This time, his father Damodar Shingda contested the bypoll as the Congress nominee and bagged 47,714 votes.

Besides, the CPI-M polled 71,887 votes in the Lok Sabha bypoll as compared to 76,890 in the 2014 Lok Sabha election, a loss of 5,003 votes.

The vote count of the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA), a local outfit, also dropped by 70,843 votes - from 2,93,681 in 2014 to 2,22,838 now.

Meanwhile, in the Bhandara-Gondiya Lok Sabha bypoll, the BJP lost the seat to the NCP despite winning five of the six Assembly seats that comprise the constituency, in the 2014 state elections.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha poll, Nana Patole of the BJP had polled 6,06,129 votes and won the seat. He later quit the seat and the party, leading to the bypoll also held on May 28.

However, in the last month's by-election, Hemant Patle of the BJP bagged 3,94,116 votes, bringing down the party's vote count by 2,12,013.

Patle lost to NCP's Madhukar Kukde by a margin of 48,097 votes. Though the NCP won Bhandara-Gondia, its vote count dipped by 14,662.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, NCP's Praful Patel had secured 4,56,875 votes, whereas this time around the party's candidate Kukde got 4,42,213.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)To commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has sought an assistance of Rs 2,145.31 crore from the Centre for undertaking various infrastructural projects in towns and cities associated with the first Sikh Guru.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the chief minister, who is also the chairman of the state-level organising committee, has suggested that a national organising committee, under the chairmanship of the prime minister, be constituted to oversee the celebrations of this historic event across the country.

The chief minister, who will be personally meeting the prime minister soon to discuss this issue, said that while a year-long calendar of events was being prepared for organising commemorative events across various states, the primary focus of the celebrations will be at places like Sultanpur Lodhi (Kapurthala), Dera Baba Nanak and Batala (Gurdaspur) that have had a deep association with the first Sikh Guru.

Singh said that it would be in fitness of things that, as a part of these celebrations, the towns of Sultanpur Lodhi, Dera Baba Nanak, Batala and Guruharsahai, where some of the relics of Guru Nanak Dev are kept, be taken up for special infrastructural development as towns of religious and historical importance.

He urged the prime minister that besides this, the Centre should also dedicate certain special projects in Punjab to commemorate the historic event.

In a detailed memorandum, submitted along with his letter, the chief minister, as per an official release here today, has sought Rs 875.03 crore for upgradation of infrastructure in the historic towns of Sultanpur Lodhi, Dera Baba Nanak, Guruharsahai and Batala.

The proposed works listed primarily pertain to upgradation of civic roads and bridges infrastructures in these towns. The chief minister has suggested that the funds could be released from the Ministries of Housing and Urban Affairs and Road Transport and Highways.

The chief minister has also sought a special grant of Rs 350 crore from the Ministry of Human Resource Development for setting up the Sri Guru Nanak Dev National Institute of Inter-Faith Studies at Amritsar.

The institute, for which the land will be made available by the state government, proposes to focus on the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev, besides providing a forum for the study and research on the first Sikh Guru and on comparative religions.

The chief minister has sought assistance of Rs 500 crore for setting up of a 500-bed Sri Guru Nanak Dev Medical College and Super-Specialty Hospital in Gurdaspur.

Pointing out that the border districts of Gurdaspur and Pathankot had inadequate health are facilities, the chief minister said the proposed state-of-the-art super-specialty hospital will have all the major super-specialisations.

A special grant of Rs 200 crore has also been sought through the Ministry of Culture for setting up a Heritage Village -- Pind Babe Nanak Da, which will depict the life and times of Guru Nanak.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Polavaram Irrigation Project, billed as the lifeline of resource-starved Andhra Pradesh, is apparently bearing the brunt of a long-drawn slanging match between the Centre and the state government.

Officially known as the Indira Sagar Multipurpose Project, it is expected to irrigate 2.91 lakh hectares, generate 960 MW of power, and fulfil the water needs of industries and 540 villages in Andhra. But bureaucratic wrangles between the Centre and the state have dealt heavy blows to the project.

Though the project had been under contemplation since 1941, the works started in 2005. Efforts to complete it gained momentum in 2015, following the bifurcation of the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh, says Ramesh Babu, the superintending engineer of the project.

He says 54 per cent of the works have been completed and the rest will be finished by December 2019. But he does not sound very assuring. The reason - a large number of the affected families have not been rehabilitated yet.

"That's the main roadblock. The major component of the project is Rs 33,000 crore for rehabilitation. Unless we resettle the affected families, we cannot complete the dam. We cannot submerge the villages," he says.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu suggests Andhra Pradesh may stop paying taxes to the Centre if it doesn't provide funds for the rehabilitation work.

"The rehabilitation work has been completed to a certain extent. As and when the Centre gives the money, we will complete the rest of it.

"The central government will have to give the money. It is our right and is mentioned in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act. They cannot go against it. If they do all these things... Why should we pay taxes to the Centre? Prime Minister Narendra Modi is not doing us any favours," he says.

Officials say Naidu visited the project site 30 times in the last three years. He reviews the work every Monday, in keeping with his slogan "Polavaram on Somavaram".

They say the main components of Polavaram are -- a dam across the Godavari and two main canals, one to its right and the other to the left. For constructing the dam, it is imperative to resettle the affected people. Around 3,000 of the 98,000 affected families have relocated.

The cost of resettling the affected villagers was calculated according to the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, Babu says.

"We have submitted revised estimates to the Centre, which is scrutinising them. Once that is completed, we are expecting to receive the funds required," he says.

He adds the release of funds by the Centre doesn't match the pace of the work at the project site.

Andhra Irrigation Minister D Uma Maheswara Rao says the onus to rehabilitate the villagers is on the Centre, which had declared Polavaram a national project in 2014 and promised to bear the construction cost for the period starting from April 1, 2014.

The Andhra government has been directing a lion's share of its resources to the project, so much so that it has left no money to spend on its other flagship schemes.

"Rs 13,460 crore has been spent on the project since its inception. The Andhra government had squandered Rs 5,135 crore before Polavaram was declared a national project in 2014.

"The state spent another Rs 8,330 crore on it up to April 2018. The Centre has so far released Rs 5,342 crore to the AP government. It is yet to reimburse Rs 2,988 crore (calculated since 2014)," Rao says.

"The state government is providing the maximum share of funds for the payments of the project. As a result, it has become very difficult to handle the payments of other flagship programmes. The Centre is responsible for the situation," he says.

The Polavaram project is the lifeline of Andhra Pradesh, which has been building a legacy from scratch following the agonising bifurcation, he says.

According to officials, the Union Ministry of Water Resources ordered to stop the work at the dam site twice. First, it questioned the need for a cofferdam to build the main dam and on the second occasion, it sought to know why the state government changed a contractor.

In January, it shot off a letter to the state government asking it to reply to an RTI query on "large-scale corruption and illegalities in the execution of the Polavaram project".

Babu says the state government has responded to the letter.

"There are a few persons who are trying to create roadblocks in the project. In a democratic setup, anyone can write a letter or raise an issue. But there should be concrete evidence. We've responded to the letter. There's no corruption," he says.

On a plea moved before the National Green Tribunal, alleging that a diaphragm wall at the Polavaram dam would have a devastating effect" on the marine life and the fishermen in the area, Babu says, We haven't stopped the water. It continues to flows smoothly. There's no cause for concern."



"The diaphragm wall will be cut to the level of the riverbed or half a metre below it. The diaphragm wall is not above the water wall (riverbed). During the construction of the diaphragm wall, the water is being diverted through a culvert, he says.

A bench headed by acting NGT Chairperson Justice Jawad Rahim had last week issued notices to the Polavaram Project Authority, Union Ministry, Central Inland Fisheries Institute, District Collector of West Godavari and others, seeking their replies to the plea before July 31.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pope Francis today called for dialogue in Nicaragua, where weeks of deadly anti-government demonstrations have left more than 100 people dead.

"I am united with my brother bishops in Nicaragua and their grief over violence committed by armed groups," the pope said after leading the traditional Angelus prayer in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican.

The opposition in Nicaragua on Saturday renewed calls for President Daniel Ortega's resignation as protesters again clashed with police in the city of Masaya.

"The Church is always in favour of dialogue, but for that it requires an active commitment to respect for freedom and, above all, life," the Argentine pope said.

"I pray that all the violence will cease so that the conditions for dialogue can be restored as quickly as possible." Ortega, 72, has dominated Nicaraguan since leading the Sandinista revolution that ousted dictator Anastasio Somoza in 1979.

He took over the country as head of a ruling junta and then president until 1990, then returned to power in 2007 -- and looks determined to stay there, despite the protests and the devastating loss of his once-solid support from the business elite.

The protests began over a much-hated pension reform and ballooned into a mass threat to Ortega's rule.

The embattled president denies repressing them.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has promised to extend support provided to local investors and existing industry to leverage the state's intrinsic strengths.

The chief minister made this assurance here yesterday during the second round of informal consultations with industry to elicit their views and feedback before finalising the operational guidelines of the new industrial policy.

The policy, along with the operational guidelines, are expected to become fully functional by July 1 this year, an official statement said here today.

"Time-bound delivery of regulatory and fiscal clearances was the top priority of the Congress government, which was looking at incorporating the concept of deemed clearances to ensure hassle-free business experience," Singh said.

Assuring all assistance to industries in setting up their units in the state, Singh welcomed suggestions and directed the chief principal secretary to examine and incorporate the same in the operational guidelines.

The chief minister also urged the industry help complement the state's "aggressive efforts in development and creation of jobs".

"It was their shared responsibility to re-energise and reinvigorate the state infrastructure through industrial revolution so that Punjab could reclaim its place of glory," he told the industry leaders, whom he described as ambassadors of the state.

Singh claimed that there was an "improved" investor sentiment in the state.

On the suggestion of Sunil Kant Munjal of Hero MotoCorp that the government should provide more land to two-wheeler manufacturing units, the chief minister directed the department concerned to examine the same.

Kamal Oswal of Nahar Industrial Enterprise Limited suggested full benefits on modernisation of units and enhancement of the land limit for industrial parks from 10 to 25 acres, while Kamna Raj Aggrawal of Engineering Export Promotion Council (North India) raised the issue of extension of benefits to 100 per cent export units on the lines of the manufacturing industry, which was endorsed by Anoop Bector of Mrs Bector's Food Specialities Ltd.

L D Mittal of Sonalika ITL suggested the extension of incentives and benefits to tractor Agri equipment Manufacturers, where GST on input cost was "higher" than that on finished goods.

Suneet Kochhar of Khanna Papers called for increase in freight subsidy for transport of finished goods to Kandla, Mundra and Mumbai ports to attract more investors.

Hotel Radisson's Gautam Kapoor suggested incentives for the hotel industry at par with the manufacturing sector.

The chief minister also accepted the inivation extented by Sachit Jain of Vardhman Group, to attend the 'Invest North II' to be held in Singapore during August.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)BJP veteran L K Advani today said "rebel leaders" such as George Fernandes are needed all the time because no country can progress without them.

He made the remarks at the launch of a website on George Fernandes on his 88th birthday.

Advani, who paid a visit to the ailing leader at his Delhi residence, said he was a remarkable person.

"I have had the occasion of being with him in Parliament for so many years. He is a remarkable person... Rebel leaders are needed all the time. Nothing moves without them.

"If there were no rebels, the country wouldn't have gained Independence. Rebel leaders like George should keep coming up so that the country can progress and develop," Advani said after inaugurating the website -- georgefernandes.org.

This website is an attempt to highlight his glorious contribution to Indian politics, especially the first part of his career and put the second part in right perspective. It's also an effort at celebrating what George stood for, said his wife Leila Kabir Fernandes.

Socialist leader Sharad Yadav, who was also present at the occasion, remembered Fernandes as a person whose life was full of struggle.

The website sheds light on various facets of George Fernandes, his life and all his associates across India and the world.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Country's largest lender SBI, which has not been able to invest in fintech despite earmarking funds, is now looking to modify rules to kickstart the infusion, a top official has said.

"We are a public institution and investments in are generally considered very risky. We understand that traditional way of investing will not work," chairman told on the sidelines of an event here over the weekend.

He said the bank, which has earmarked Rs 500 million to invest in fintech startups, will be modifying the rules in order to plough-in the

"We want to spend the which we have earmarked," Kumar stressed, adding that it is keen to create more companies like online retailer and ride sharing app Ola, which define the country's prowess.

Kumar said SBI has a board-approved policy to support the fintech sector, which has passed the necessary oversight bodies like

He said the has been able to make progress on two other aspects of the fintech engagements, including procuring goods from such and also playing an active role with the ecosystem through collaborations.

Kumar said the is also planning to invest Rs 250 million to set up a collaborative innovation centre in the satellite city of Navi Mumbai to promote latest technologies.

The bank, which has 430 million customers or a third of the country's population, has worked with over 150 startups till now on various cutting-edge technologies including chatbot, data analytics, etc, according to him.

The lender has held five editions of hackathons to collaborate and search for the best solutions, Kumar said.

At present, the entire runs from its global technology centre at Belapur in Navi Mumbai.A policeman guarding a protected person's residence in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir fired a few shots in the air today after noticing suspicious movement, police said.

On observing some suspicious movement near the residential guard of a protected person in Pulwama, in south Kashmir, the alert sentry fired a few rounds in the air this afternoon, a police spokesman said.

He said there was no loss of life or property reported in the incident.

Further details are awaited, the spokesman said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The rebel group of the Janata Dal (U) led by Sharad Yadav is making efforts to form a "grand alliance" against the BJP in Madhya Pradesh for the year-end Assembly polls.

Sharad Yadav's supporters are trying to bring the Congress, the largest opposition party in the state, on board to put up a united fight against the saffron outfit which is in power in Madhya Pradesh since 2003.

The Congress, out of power in Madhya Pradesh for nearly 15 years, has also expressed its willingness to align with like-minded parties to take on the BJP.

"We are trying hard to form a 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) in Madhya Pradesh with the help of the Congress," Govind Yadav, former president of the state unit of the JD (U) and a confidant of Sharad Yadav, said.

In April, supporters of Sharad Yadav announced the formation of the Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD), a new political outfit. The former Union minister has made it clear he was not yet a member of the new party as his legal claim to represent the JD(U) was still sub-judice.

"To this end, we have already helped two tribal political parties to sink their differences and join hands. The Bharatiya Gondwana Party (BGP) has aligned with the Gondwana Gantantra Party (GGP) for the polls," added.

The BGP is a breakaway faction of the GGP which had won three seats in the 2003 Assembly elections and eaten into the Congress' traditional tribal vote bank, Govind Yadav told PTI.

Both the tribal political parties have formed a coordination committee and decided to fight the elections, slated by the year-end, under the GGP's banner, said GGP national convener Gulzar Singh Markam.

The slipping away of the tribal vote from the Congress had benefited the BJP, which ousted the 10-year-old Digvijay Singh government in 2003, he added.

"We are going to hold a massive tribal meet on June 24 in Jabalpur - from where Sharad Yadav started his political career and become a member of the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1974," Markam said.

"We have invited Sharadji for the meet," he added.

Markam said tribals account for 18 per cent of Madhya Pradesh's population and play a key role in deciding the electoral outcome in a number of segments in the 230-member House.

"Our next move is to unite the Bahujan Sangarsh Dal (BSD), a breakaway faction of the BSP, with the parent party," Govind Yadav said.

"A united BSP had won 11 Assembly seats each in the 1993 and 1998 Assembly polls in the undivided MP," he added.

After BSP leader Phool Singh Baraiya quit in 2003 and formed the BSD, the Mayawati-led party's electoral fortunes nosedived in Madhya Pradesh. Baraiya had served as the state unit chief of the Dalit outfit.

In 2013, the BSP managed to win just four Assembly seats.

"We are going to hold a massive rally on June 17 in Bhopal," Baraiya said, adding Sharad Yadav, Dalit leader Prakash Amdekar and BSP founder Kanshi Ram's sister Swarn Kaur have been invited for the function.

Prakash Amdekar, grandson of Dalit icon B R Amdekar, has already accepted our invite, he said.

"We, through some people, have sent a request to BSP chief Mayawati to attend the rally," he added.

"Dalits account for 15 per cent of MP population," Baraiya said.

A 'mahagathbandhan' led by the Congress is needed to oust the BJP from power in Madhya Pradesh, he said.

It is the right time for the non-BJP parties to join hands as this will help them strike a better seat-sharing deal with the Congress, Govind Yadav said.

If the Congress contests 150 seats and its allies the rest 80, nobody can stop the formation of a non-BJP government in Madhya Pradesh, the former MP JD (U) president added.

"The Congress is going to align with like-minded parties to oust the BJP in the approaching Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh," said state Congress chief spokesman Manak Agrawal.

In the last assembly polls, the BJP had won 165 seats, while the Congress bagged 58. Their vote share was 44.48 per cent and 36.38 per cent, respectively.

The BSP, the SP and the GGP had notched up 6.29 per cent, 1.25 per cent and 1 per cent vote share, respectively.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Curfew in pockets of Shillong was relaxed for seven hours today, even as Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the violence that broke out on Thursday was a local issue and not communal in nature.

A team of Shiromani Akali Dal leaders from Delhi visited the Meghalaya capital in view of the clashes involving two communities that left at least 10 people injured.

The East Khasi Hills district authorities relaxed the curfew from 8 am to 3 pm to allow churchgoers to attend Sunday services, officials said.

"The problem is very much in a particular locality, on a particular issue. It just happened that two particular communities were involved, but it's not a communal thing," Sangma told a press conference here.

The clashes in parts of Shillong were given a communal colour by vested groups and a section of the media outside the state, he said.

A number of those arrested in connection with the violence are from outside East Khasi Hills district, in which Shillong falls, and they were given alcohol and cash by some people, he said.

The administration exercised restraint in the first 48 hours and met leaders of civil society organisations to ascertain if their members were involved.

"We came to know there is a large number of people who have come here from West Khasi Hills district and many of those nabbed by the police were from outside Shillong," he said.

The administration and the police are on the job to protect every individual, said Sangma, who chaired a meeting of officials of the home department and Director General of Police S B Singh earlier in the day.

Earlier, a SAD team, including MLA Manjinder Singh Sirsa and the party's Delhi unit president Manjit Singh, met the residents of the violence-affected area.

The SAD team also called on the chief minister.

"I am happy to inform you that the delegation was very happy with the response of the state government to ensure that all citizens are given protection," he said.

Officials told PTI that the curfew was promulgated in 14 localities under the jurisdictions of the Lumdiengjri police station and the Cantonment police beat house resumed at 3 pm.

Night curfew will continue in the entire city from 10 pm till 5 am, and Internet and messaging services continue to remain suspended, the official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In one of the sharpest attacks after the recently held Lok Sabha bypoll in Palghar, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut today described BJP as its biggest "political enemy".

The country "does not" want the duo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah, but could "accept" the Congress or JD(S) leader H D Deve Gowda, he said.

"The Shiv Sena is the biggest political enemy (rajkiya shatroo) of the BJP. The Sena's radical Hinduism would prove problematic for the BJP," he said in an opinion piece written under his 'rokh-thokh' (straight forward) column published in party mouthpiece 'Saamana'.

Raut is the editor of the Marathi daily.

Taking potshots at the saffron party, Raut said the BJP paid tribute to its late MP Chintaman Wanaga by defeating his son, the Sena candidate, in Palghar.

The bypoll was necessitated by the death of Chintaman Wanaga.

Since the Sena is the main political opponent of the BJP, the latter's plan is to weaken the Uddhav Thackeray-led party while staying in power with it, he alleged.

"Hence, the BJP's plan is to stay with the Sena in power and try to weaken it by using power and money. The BJP used its resources to ensure Shiv Sena's defeat in the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll (held last month)," Raut said.

The Sena leader claimed "trickery" of EVMs led to the BJP's victory in Palghar and said it was nothing short of a "scandal".

"On the day of voting (May 28), complaints of EVMs malfunctioning were reported from at least 100 locations. The Election Commission rejected the Shiv Sena's request for extending voting hours, but a similar demand of BJP candidate Rajendra Gavit (who won the seat) was accepted," he alleged.

He claimed that every polling station, where extension for voting was given, reported an "average 100 extra votes to the BJP nominee and cumulatively BJP's votes increased by some thousands. But some 60,000 voters could not vote".

"After the voting, the district collector declared 46 per cent turnout, but the figure went up to 56 per cent the next day (when final figure was announced). It means 82,000 votes increased overnight", he said.

Raut charged that the BJP has appointed people with RSS links to key constitutional posts and controlled the election procedure.

He also referred to the setback suffered by the BJP in the just held Lok Sabha and Assembly bypolls in some states.

"The BJP managed to win the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll but it lost many other Lok Sabha and Assembly bypolls. This shows winds of change are blowing in several parts of the country," he said.

"The bypoll results indicate beginning of the BJP's downfall," said the Rajya Sabha MP.

He charged that "the country is in such a state of mind that it can accept the Congress or Deve Gowda, but does not want the Modi- Shah duo".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Defence Minister and senior BJP leader Nirmala Sitharaman today met eminent personalities and industrialists in the State as part of the 'Sampark for Samarthan' programme that aims to highlight achievements of the Narendra Modi-led government over the past four years.

BJP President Amit Shah on May 29, rolled out the outreach programme to mark the government's fourth anniversary, which fell on May 26, as it prepares for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Sitharaman, who is on a two-day visit to Tamil Nadu met senior industrialists, media personalities and shared pictures of the interactions on her official Twitter account.

"In Chennai today and tomorrow on #Sampark_for_Samarthan. Meeting eminent citizens & thought leaders on 4 years of NDA government's performance..." she tweeted yesterday.

During the visit yesterday and today, Sitharaman met several personalities including Apollo Hospitals Chief, Prathap C Reddy, TVS and Sons Joint Managing Director, R Dinesh, legendary musician Illayaraja, New Indian Express, CMD, Manoj Sonthalia, Thanthi Group Chairman, Balasubramaniam Adithyan and sought support for the cause of #SaafNiyatSahiVikas undertaken by the NDA Government.

About her meeting with Illayaraja, she wrote, "A pleasant interaction with great maestro Padma Vibhushan Shri Illayaraja. Sought his appreciation and support for the work being undertaken under the leadership of @PMOIndia Shri @narendramodi. #SamparkforSamarthan @BJP4India".

Under the exercise-'Sampark for Samarthan', 4,000 BJP functionaries, from Shah and its chief ministers down to panchayat members, have been asked to contact one lakh people who are well-known names in different fields to share with them the government's works.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Ravinder Singh's work is interrupted by the deafening sound of rockets pounding the fields and the roof of houses.

For a moment, he cannot believe it has happened to their village.

The peace-loving residents of Shama Chak, around 10 km from Jammu, had never seen a rain of deadly mortar shells and missiles, until now.

Pakistani troops today rained mortar shells on the village, leaving four people, including a BSF jawan, injured. The ear-piercing blasts could be heard in Jammu.

The attack left the villagers shocked and uncertain about their safety.

Singh says he has never seen such violence in his 52 years.

"We were lucky that most of the shells exploded in the open, he tells PTI.

Singh is attending to his brother Rajinder, who received multiple splinter injuries after a shell exploded near him.

A shell exploded near our house, leaving Rajinder and his friend Palla Ram wounded, he says.

Singh says Ram is a BSF jawan and he had come to the village on leave two days ago.

The BSF personnel and the other injured people are recuperating at the Government Medical College Hospital here.

Vikram Singh (35), who also suffered splinter injuries, says the village came under attack from Pakistani troops at around 8:30 am.

Abhi Kumar, a Class 7 student, is among the injured undergoing treatment at the hospital.

He says several shells hit the main market, causing panic among the people.

Policeman Zakir Khan, undergoing treatment for splinter injuries, says he was deputed at Kanachak to stop people from going towards Mishriwala due to the lurking threat of mortar shelling.

Principal GMC Sunanda Raina says the staff has been alerted and all necessary arrangements made to ensure prompt treatment and free medicines to the injured.

Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta, senior government functionaries and opposition leaders visited the injured at the hospital.

Pakistan is a coward nation which cannot be trusted. We condemn repeated ceasefire violation, Gupta says.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The CIC has directed the Prime Minister's Office and the External Affairs Ministry to disclose the efforts made to bring back priceless Indian antiquities like Koh-i-noor diamond, golden throne of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, jade wine cup of Shahjahan and sword of Tipu Sultan.

The antiquities which are part of folklore of Indian opulence and finesse are adorning museums world over after being taken by colonial masters and invaders.

When an RTI applicant approached the External Affairs Ministry and the Prime Minister's Office, his query was transferred to the Archaeological Survey of India which said it is not its domain to make efforts to bring them back.

B K S R Ayyangar demanded records pertaining to the efforts made by the government to bring back Koh-i-Noor diamond, Sultanganj Buddha, Nassak diamond, the sword and ring of Tipu Sultan, the golden throne of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, royal jade wine cup of Shahjahan,Amaravathi railings and Buddhapade, Saraswathi marble idol - Vagdevi and mechanical tiger of Tipu.

The ASI said it can take up the issue of retrieval of only those antiquities, which have been illegally exported out of the country in violation of the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972 which became operational in 1976.

It said so far 25 antiquities have been retrieved from various other countries during 2014 to 2017.

When asked by Information Commissioner Sridhar Acharyulu why the RTI request was not transferred to PMO or the Ministry of Culture, Archana Asthana of ASI said, "These applications were filed at first with them only. I didn't understand why they sent to us.

Deep sentiments are associated with these heritage objects as some of them are religiously considered sacred such as marble Vagdevi of Bhoj Raj, Buddha's statue from Sultanganj, Nassak diamond called 'eye' of Shiva, and objects with high historic value like Koh-i-Noor, Tipu's sword, ring and mechanical tiger etc, henoted.

They legitimately belonged to India and people of past, present and future generations are interested in re-possessing them, he said in the order.

Acharyulu said the government cannot ignore these sentiments which are reflected by representations, public interest litigations and RTI requests.

Citing a number of petitions in the Supreme Court and statements made by various governments since independence, Acharyulu noted that with all kinds of such reports and multiple statements, the citizens are confused as to what exactly is the stand of the Union government on securing back priceless cultural heritage of India.

"It is surprising that CPIOs of PMO and Ministry of Culture did not apply their mind, ignored the lack of authority in ASI and in a routine manner transferred RTI application without even verifying whether they have any information in their records," he said.

Acharyulu said when the Culture Minister assured the Supreme Court that they would continue efforts, it was for them to inform measures or progress if any.

"Knowing that the ASI had no legal power to recover pre-independence artifacts from British how could PMO and Ministry of Culture conclude that RTI applicationis more closely connected with functions of ASI," he asked.

The efforts, if any, will involve external affairs or international transactions or diplomacy at higher level of the prime minister or minister for external affairs or high commissioners of India and other nations concerned to get back historic possessions that were taken out of India, Acharyulu said.

He said when Parliament cannot be denied this information the citizens too cannot be denied as per proviso under Section 8(1) of RTI Act.

"The PMO and Ministry of Culture have every duty to inform the appellant and transferring RTI requests to ASI would amount to breach of that duty," he said.

Acharyulu directed the CPIOs of the PMO, Culture Ministry and the MEA to inform the appellant what efforts were are being made or contemplated and their stand on the points mentioned in RTI application.

He also sought an explanation from the PMO as to why RTI request of the applicant was transferred to ASI, when the Act of 1972 clearly explain that subject matter of the request was not under their control.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A suspected narcotics smuggler was arrested and booked under the NDPS Act after 52 gms of heroin worth Rs five lakh in the international market was recovered from his possession in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said today.

Govind Ram, a resident of Padanoo village, was intercepted by a police party near Flata chowk on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway last evening and his search led to the recovery of the contraband, a police official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj today arrived here on a five-day visit to South Africa during which she will meet top leadership of the country and attend meetings of BRICS and IBSA -- the two major groupings where India has been playing a key role.

"Centuries old relationship! On her arrival in South Africa, EAM @SushmaSwaraj was heartily received by Deputy Foreign Minister Luwellyn Landers," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Swaraj will also attend a series of events marking the 125th anniversary of the historic incident where a young Mahatma Gandhi was thrown out of a train compartment in Pietermaritzburg railway station.

The 1893 incident proved to be a turning point in Gandhi's fight against racial discrimination in South Africa.

During the visit, Swaraj will participate in the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Foreign Ministers' meeting on June 4 which is expected to lay the foundation for the annual summit of the grouping in Johannesburg next month.

She will also chair a meeting of Foreign Ministers of IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa), another bloc working to deepen coordination among the three countries on major global issues.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Stepping up efforts to curb illicit fund flows, Switzerland plans to amend its anti-money laundering law wherein financial intermediaries will be required to verify information on beneficial owners.

The Alpine nation, known for its banking secrecy practices, has been taking various measures in the fight against black money amid intense global pressure from various countries, including India.

The Swiss Federal Council has now initiated the consultation process for amendments to the country's anti-money laundering law.

As part of putting in place stringent mechanism to stymie illegal fund flows, the country plans to provision for improving the effectiveness of suspicious activity reporting for money laundering and terrorist financing.

The law now explicitly obliged financial intermediaries to verify information on beneficial owners. This creates a basis for the existing practice and enshrines case law, the Swiss government said.

Noting that financial intermediaries must regularly check that client data is up to date, the government said the frequency and scope of reviews is based on the degree of risk posed by the contracting party.

According to the statement, issued on June 1, due diligence obligations are to be introduced for certain services which concern the establishment, management or administration of companies and trusts.

Besides, the threshold for cash payments in precious metals and gem trading is to be reduced and an authorisation for the purchase of old precious metals is to be made compulsory, it added.

The proposed bill to amend the anti-money laundering law takes into account certain key recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) mutual evaluation report on Switzerland based on a review conducted in 2016.

While acknowledging the generally good quality of the Swiss system for combating money laundering and terrorist financing, the report had also identified weaknesses in some areas, as per the statement.

Late last year, India and Switzerland inked a pact for automatic exchange of tax-related information.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India's Sons has issued a strong rebuttal to a claim of a $50 million gift to the prestigious Business School, terming the US media report "false, disparaging and defamatory" and demanded an apology.

The holding company of the Group, Sons has raised strong objections to a May 21 article titled ' Business School's Ignominious Gift from Tata Trusts' in The Daily Caller, a conservative American and opinion website.

has said that the "article is replete with false and inaccurate statements of fact and is defamatory to Ltd, its directors, its Chairman Emeritus Ratan N Tata, and all of them enjoy an enormous amount of goodwill and respect globally."



has formally written to The Daily Caller, giving a detailed and point-by-point rebuttal of the "several errors" and "blatantly false statements" in the article and demanded an apology and that the website take down the article.

The article is authored by Alan Beard, who according to his affiliation at the end of the article is managing director of Washington-based financial advisory firm Interlink Capital Strategies and a former adjunct professor at Georgetown University.

"...Given that the article is replete with incorrect, disparaging and defamatory statements and insinuations, we behove The Daily Caller to take immediate corrective steps to take down the article and publish an apology. We also call upon The Daily Caller to disclose all the materials relied upon by it for the purpose of publishing the article," Tata Sons said.

Tata Sons said the "reputational damage and harm" caused by the article is "irreparable" and the group "continues to explore" its remedies.

In the Daily Caller article, Beard refers to the 50 million dollar gift to Business School in 2010 from Tata Trusts and Companies, saying that the institution accepted "questionable funds that go against every tenet of good governance."



The article also questioned the use of the funds to construct Tata Hall at Harvard, saying "public money has apparently been misdirected to the most privileged and wealthy in the world."Tata Sons strongly rejected these assertions in the letter to The Daily Caller, saying the gift of $50 million to was collectively made by the Tata Companies, Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the Tata Education and Development Trust.

"It is untrue that the Tata Trusts had alone made the gift of $50 million."



Tata Sons also strongly rejected the claim made in the article that the $50 million gift agreement was "brokered" between HBS Dean and Tata Sons said that during his service on the Board, in 2008, was approached by its former Dean Jay Light to consider a gift to HBS to build a new executive education building.

" had no involvement whatsoever in these discussions and it is a false statement that the gift was brokered between him and Tata," Tata Sons said.

Tata Sons also asserted that it was "incorrect and false" to allege that public money had been "misdirected."



"To state that funds were 'taken' from 'poor Indians' is not only false, but reckless reporting. It is unfortunate that no details of the enormous philanthropic work carried out by the Tata Trusts have even been reported."



The article also noted that Nohria, as non-executive director on Tata Sons Board, had voted to out former Tata Sons Chairman Rejecting this, Tata Sons said Mistry had been removed as he had lost the confidence of "7 out of 9 directors" of Tata Sons.

"From the false statements in the article, it is now apparent that the article is motivated, aimed to malign the reputation of Tata Sons, its directors and Tata and probably that's the reason for irresponsible reporting and intentionally not approaching Tata Sons or Tata for the correct facts," Tata Sons said.

Responding to a reference in the article that in the two months following Mistry's replacement as Executive Chairman, the value of Tata's listed dropped by $17 billion, Tata Sons said that the article failed to add that Mistry had, a day after being removed, written a "vitriolic email to the directors of Tata Sons wherein he made several unsubstantiated and false allegations" in relation to Tata Sons and other in the Tata group.

"The article is irresponsible, lacking in thorough investigation and openly partisan," Tata Sons said adding that the article's "one-sided presentation, motivated and malicious insinuations are plainly visible and buttressed by the fact that neither the Daily Caller nor the article's author approached the Tata Group for any comment and response prior to publication," Tata Sons said.On a lazy afternoon not so long ago, Anustup Roy Barman decided to try his luck at playing a contest while watching a matinee show on HBO, and ended up winning an Apple iPhone 8.

The contest required a participant to go on the channel's Facebook page and answer six questions related to the film Barman was watching.

It was tantalising, notwithstanding the concerns over data theft and intrusions on private space on social media sites.

"It read that if I could answer all six questions correctly and post a screenshot of it, I would be eligible for an iPhone 8 (one grand prize) or some other prizes (10 more winners)," Barman said.

"Participating in the contest seemed funny but I went ahead out of curiosity. After a month, I saw a comment under that post asking for my address details, said the Kolkata-based 24-year-old.

After a few days came a courier containing the prized phone.

That contests are merely publicity stunts for brands is common perception, but the recent data leak controversy has made social media users extra cautious about sharing personal details online.

Concerns escalated after disclosures about Cambridge Analytica, the data mining firm accused of harvesting personal user data from Facebook illegally to influence polls in several countries.

The UK-based political consulting firm at the heart of the massive data breach of Facebook users worldwide has now announced it is shutting down.

Giving access to third-party online sites by signing-in through Facebook while playing contests puts an individual's data at risk of being used by e-commerce sites.

Barman bit the bait but said he checked for authenticity with friends who have played similar contests in the past before sharing his details on Facebook.

Further correspondence was done on email, he said.

Mugunthan Kesavan from Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu is amongst those who won big in the years before data theft became a worry.

In July 2014, Kesavan was a lucky Flipkart winner of an e-gift voucher worth Rs 1,00,000 to be redeemed on the online shopping site.

"Initially, I thought it was some scam, but while making a purchase they did not ask for any detail except the code that came with the voucher. It was simply unbelievable," Kesavan, who now lives in New Delhi, said.

He ended up buying three mobile phones, Bluetooth accessories, a washing machine, a refrigerator, a watch, shoes, clothes, and even exchanged it for cash by sharing the code with friends.

About two years ago, Ritika Mathur and her brother won a Tanishq diamond ring worth Rs 2.5 lakh and an all-paid two-day trip to Mumbai in an introductory contest for Close-Up Diamond toothpaste.

Prospective winners were expected to send a certain text message on the company's contact number, which Ritika's brother did "just for fun".

"After a week, he received a call from Close-Up saying he was shortlisted and had won a diamond ring which, however, would be handed over only to a female, so he took me along," the Delhi-based Ritika said.

It's a two-way street with companies pushing the contest game.

While promotion is the obvious objective, apparel brand ONLY says contests "allow them to engage with its target audience".

"With every contest, our focus is to remain relevant through new and fun formats. They also help establish top of mind recall while also increasing consumer trials," an ONLY spokesperson said.

Reebok, which holds contests, both on ground and on social media, said participation was determined by various nuances of a particular contest.

"It (participation) varies from anywhere between 50 to 500 in number," a spokesperson said.

A winner is selected from a pool of entries that fulfill all parameters of being applicable, which are then put into a random function to get the desired number of winners.

"We make sure that we evaluate the most effective candidate who meets the criteria laid for down the contest," a Reebok spokesperson said.

According to clothing and accessories brand Jack & Jones, a contest could be hosted at any point of time depending on its marketing objectives but the company usually conducts one every two months across digital and social platforms.

"Various factors determine the frequency, such as collection launches, trending topics, marketing partnerships, sponsored events, sales and more," a brand representative said.

So, the next time when a contest question pops up, think twice before turning a blind eye.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The CPI(M) on Sunday demanded that the probe into the police firing which killed 13 people during protests here last month to demand closure of the Sterlite plant over pollution concerns, 'be handed over to the CBI, monitored by the Madras High Court'.

"The probe into the incident has to be done by an authority which is not involved with State and Central governments. The enquiry should be handed over to the CBI and monitored by the Madras High Court," CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury said.

The police department had last month transferred the case to the CB-CID.

Speaking to reporters after visiting families of the deceased and the injured, he said the protesters had planned a 'sit-in protest' at the Collectorate on the 100th day of the protests on May 22.

"But that was met with snipers and shoot at sight orders. Strange thing is, I am told that the District Collector and Superintendent of Police were not in the headquarters that day. So who gave the orders?" he asked.

Yechury demanded to know if the Collector delegated the authority to anyone or whether somebody assumed that authority for themselves.

The locals in the district had been protesting for closure of the factory for 99 days.The protests turned violent on May 22 and 23 leading to police firing, in which 13 people were killed.

Pointing out that there were no party flags during the protests, he said, "even we (CPI-M) were not there with our party flags. But now cases have been filed against our activists."



Yechury demanded withdrawal of cases 'foisted' against all the protesters.

He said the Collector and Superintendent of Police in Tuticorin district should have been suspended, instead of being transferred, till the inquiry was complete.

Yechury alleged the Sterlite Copper plant was allowed to operate in Tamil Nadu because of "strong connections" between the Vedanta Group, which runs the plant, and successive governments.

"The nod for expansion of the Sterlite plant was granted after the Modi Government came into office. Why?" he asked.

On May 29, the Tamil Nadu government had cancelled the land allotment for expansion of the Sterlite plant and also ordered the state Pollution control board to 'seal and permanently close' the existing unit.

The government has also constituted a Commission of Inquiry under retired Madras High Court judge Aruna Jagadeesan to probe the incidents in Tuticorin.Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb today flagged off the first consignment of pineapples from the state to be exported to Dubai.

Speaking at the function, Deb said more consignments of pineapples of the state would be exported to foreign countries.

The chief minister said "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a dream of doubling farmers income in the country by 2022. The dream has become a reality here today with export of pineapples."



Deb urged the farmers in the state to plant pineapples and bamboo in land lying unused.

"We have long monsoon here and bamboo grows in abundance. Farmers should plant pineapples, bamboo in any land which is lying unused. We shall issue a notification shortly to plant bamboo in unused private land," he said.

Tripura Agriculture minister, Pranajit Singha Roy said the first consignment of 'Queen' variety of pineapples would reach Dubai on Tuesday.

The state government had on May 18 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Kolkata-based export-import firm, to market Tripuras pineapple in Dubai and other foreign countries.

Singha Roy said Israel, Bahrain and some other countries have asked the state government for 'queen' variety of pineapple.

A discussion is underway with Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) to attach a 25 tonne container filled with pineapple with Kanchanjungha Express, which runs from Agartala railway station to Kolkata every week, he said.

"If the products could be sent by train up to Kolkata then cost would come down. From Kolkata the fruits would go to Dubai and other countries of middle east by flight," Singha Roy said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The opposition CPI-M today claimed that the people of Tripura's tribal inhabited areas were regularly crossing over to Bangladesh to collect food and return home and demanded that the areas be declared as "distressed."



"I have visited many areas, mainly in Dhalai district where indigenous people live in hill areas. They cross the Indo-Bangla border to collect forest produces to earn their livelihood. Due to starvation they are doing it. It is a matter of shame," CPI(M) MP Jiten Chowdhuri told reporters here.

"Three to four hundred people everyday cross the border and return after collecting forest produces including medicinal plants," the CPI(M) Central Committee member said.

Chowdhury, who is also the president of the party's tribal wing Gana Mukti Parishad (GMP), said the BJP-IPFT government should declare the areas as "distressed" and take appropriate measures without any delay.

No minister or government official is available to comment on the issue.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today slammed the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on steel and aluminum as "insulting and unacceptable" and said he would retaliate by placing similar penalties on US goods.

Beginning this month, US President Donald Trump has imposed a 25 per cent tariff on import of steel from Canada and another 15 per cent on aluminum using the "national security interest" provisions of the existing American laws.

"We're putting the same kinds of tariffs exactly on steel and aluminum coming from the United States into Canada to be directly reciprocal. But we're also putting a number of tariffs on consumer goods, finished products for which Canadians have easy alternatives," Trudeau told NBC in an interview during a Sunday talk show.

"One of the things that I have to admit I'm having a lot of trouble getting around is the idea that this entire thing is coming about because the president and the administration have decided that Canada and Canadian steel and aluminum is a national security threat to the United States," he said.

"The idea that we are somehow a national security threat to the United States is quite frankly insulting and unacceptable," Trudeau said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)American President Donald Trump suggested that Special Counsel Robert Mueller is deliberately leaking to the press documents about his probe into possible collusion with Russia.

"There was No Collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country," Trump tweeted yesterday after the investigation passed its one-year mark last month.

"Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake Media? Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?" Earlier, The New York Times published a confidential 20-page letter the American president's legal team sent to Mueller in January, along with another sent in June 2017.

In the letters, Trump's lawyers sternly oppose attempts by Mueller's office to interview him, saying "under our system of government, the president is not readily available to be interviewed." They also argue that Trump cannot be accused of obstructing justice because he has the constitutional power to end the investigation led by the Justice Department.

Mueller was appointed in May 2017 to investigate Russian efforts to tip the 2016 presidential election in Trump's favour.

He has increasingly dug into evidence of alleged money laundering, fraud and obstruction of justice inside Trump's inner circle.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)US President Donald Trump has no intention to pardon himself from any charges stemming from the probe into Russian meddling, his top personal attorney said today cautioning that such a move by the president would result in his immediate impeachment.

Rudy Giuliani, who joined Trump's legal team just last month, took shots at special counsel Robert Mueller.

"He's not, but he probably does. He has no intention of pardoning himself," Giuliani told ABC in another Sunday interview as he made rounds of Sunday talk shows.

"That's another really interesting constitutional question: Can the president pardon himself? It would be an open question. I think it would probably get answered by, 'gosh that's what the Constitution says.' And if you want to change it, change it. But, yeah," Giuliani said in response to a question.

The former FBI Director, Mueller, is currently carrying investigations into the alleged interference of Russia in the 2016 presidential elections.

Responding to questions, Giuliani said that the political ramifications of Trump pardoning himself would be tough.

"Pardoning other people is one thing, pardoning yourself is another. Other presidents have pardoned people in circumstances like this both in their administration and sometimes the next president, even of a different party will come along and pardon," he said.

Giuliani refuted reports that by pardoning individuals like Indian American Dinesh D'Souza, Trump is sending a signal to those caught up in the Russia investigation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)US President Donald Trump is seeking to transform the world trading system which is "unfair" and has virtually no reciprocity, his top economic advisor said today, amid America's trade tensions with China and key allies.

"This president, from day one, wants to reform the world trading system. It is not working. And there is so much unfair trading and illegal trading practices, Larry Kudlow, Director of the National Economic Council under President Donald Trump told Fox

The current world trade system, he argued, has "virtually" no reciprocity.

"Tariff rates are not equal. Non-tariff barriers are not equal. The World Trade Organisation, which sets these rules, has been totally ineffectual. It has, in some cases, damaged the American economy, damaged American workers in manufacturing and other businesses, Kudlow said.

As a result, he argued, Trump has stepped up to the plate here. "And as somebody who is a free trader, I've got to say, if you don't have a level playing field, you can't operate free trade, he said.

Kudlow's remarks came amidst increasing trade tension between the US and China, and several of the top American key allies and friends including the European Union, Canada and Mexico.

Kudlow said the ongoing North America Free Trade Agreement or NAFTA talks have not broken down.

"We're still having those conversations. We're still having the steel talks with Canada. Take a look at the communique the White House put out, or the statement, he said.

Good faith negotiations are welcome, and we hope to continue there. I don't think things are broken down. I don't want to be cavalier about anything. These are very serious matters that could affect the economy. There's worries about that every place. So no, I don't want to deny that, the presidential advisor said.

At the same time, he said that in the world trade game, rule breaking is all over the place.

That's why I think that the president is right. We have got to make reforms and we have to stand up for US interests as we go along. This is always...you know, don't blame Trump, blame China, blame Europe, blame NAFTA, blame those who don't want reciprocal trading, tariff rates and protectionism and Trump is responding to several decades of trade abuses here, really, he said.

Referring to the latest economic figures, Kudlow said the country is on the front end of what will turn out to be the best prosperity boom in several decades.

The economy is clicking on all cylinders. As you noted, jobs and unemployment. Business investment is growing everywhere. Money is being repatriated. Trillions of dollars are coming back home to the US. This is all probably three per cent growth, he said.

We're right on the cusp of the 3 per cent growth. All our critics said we couldn't have. The Atlanta Fed and other private forecasters are now looking for 4 percent growth in the second quarter. I hope we get there. I would take another 3 percent growth. The tax cuts and the rollback of regulations has created not only new incentives to grow, Chris, but also tremendous confidence, consumer surveys, business surveys, small business surveys, Kudlow said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The bodies of 35 migrants have been recovered off Tunisia's southern coast, the country's defence ministry said Sunday, revising upwards an earlier toll.

As of 1300 local time (1200 GMT), "35 bodies were recovered and 68 migrants rescued," a spokesman for the defence ministry told AFP.

The interior ministry had earlier said the bodies of 11 migrants had been recovered and 67 people rescued off the coast of Sfax province after the navy and national guard responded to a distress call from a boat that was "about to sink.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two BSF personnel, including an officer, were today killed as Pakistani Rangers targeted Indian posts along the IB here with mortars and firing, a violation which comes nearly a week after DGMOs of both countries agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".

The heavy firing and mortar shelling from across the border in Pragwal area of Akhnoor and nearby Kanachak and Khour sectors also left 10 persons, including a policeman and a woman injured, and forced people to abandon their homes and rush for safer places.

Pakistan side resorted to unprovoked firing by targeting forward duty points at International Border (IB) in Pragwal around 0115 hours, causing critical injuries to Assistant Sub-inspector S N Yadav (48) and constable V K Pandey, a senior BSF officer told PTI.

He said both the injured were evacuated to medical facilities but succumbed to injuries.

The firing from across the border in violation of the ceasefire agreement prompted a strong and effective retaliation by the BSF, the officer said adding cross-border firing spread to Kanachak and Khour areas as well and was going on when last reports came in.

A police official said nine civilians and a policeman were also injured in the Pakistan shelling and were evacuated to hospital.

He identified six of the injured persons as selection grade constable Zakir Khan, Sulakshana Devi (25), Bansi Lal (40), Balwinder Singh (22), Sudhakar Singh (50) and Vikram Singh (34).

On May 29, the DGMOs of India and Pakistan agreed to "fully implement" the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit" forthwith to stop border skirmishes in J&K.

The two military commanders reviewed the prevailing situation along the LoC and the IB in Jammu and Kashmir during a conversation over the special hotline.

The hotline contact was initiated by the Pakistani DGMO.

Following the conversation between Indian DGMO Lt Gen Anil Chauhan and Pakistan's Maj Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the two armies issued identical statements saying both sides agreed to implement the 15-year-old ceasefire understanding.

The latest deaths in the Pakistani firing raised the casualty figure during ceasefire violations along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC) in the state to 46.The dead includes 20 security personnel.

Last month, thousands of people residing along the IB in Jammu, Kathua and Samba districts had to flee their homes following intense shelling from Pakistan between May 15 and May 23 which left 12 people dead, including two BSF jawans and an infant, and scores of others injured.

After the DGMOs of the two countries spoke to each other, hope rekindled among border residents who had started returning to their homes but the latest incident triggered fresh concerns among them and the people in the affected areas started fleeing their homes.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A clash between Pashtun activists and local militants today killed two people and wounded 25 others in a restive Pakistani tribal region near the Afghan border, officials said.

The incident occurred in the Rustam Bazar of Wana, the main town of South Waziristan where the military has in the past conducted a string of punishing offensives to hunt down Taliban and Al-Qaeda-linked militants.

Supporters of the Pashtun Protection Movement (PTM), which is led by young activist Manzoor Pashteen, wanted to hold a rally to protest against growing corruption in the tribal regions.

"The clash erupted after supporters of Manzoor Pashteen were stopped from holding a protest rally by local militants belonging to Maulvi Nazir group " a senior local administration official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

The Pashtun activists torched two offices of the militants, which led to an exchange of fire, killing two people and wounding 25 others, the offical said. Authorities were not immediately able to ascertain the identities of those killed and injured.

Maulvi Nazir Wazir was a pro-government militant commander who carried out attacks on US troops deployed in Afghanistan. He was killed in a drone strike in 2013.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two Pakistani security personnel engaged in fencing border were today injured after the militants from across the Afghan border attacked them, authorities said.

The security forces personnel on repulsed attack on security check post in Mamond Tehsil of Bajaur Agency by militants from across the Pak-Afghan border.

Official sources told that a group of militants from Afghanistan opened fire on the Pakistani team fencing border.

They added that soon after the attack, personnel of security forces took position and retaliated.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has confirmed that the suspected Afghan militants opened fire on fencing party along the border area of Bajaur.

According to the ISPR, the Pakistan Army troops immediately reached the spot and engaged the militants.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid today promised to review the country's immigration system to overcome a monthly immigration cap preventing professionals such as Indian doctors from being brought in to tackle shortages in the state-funded National Health Service (NHS).

"I see a problem with that and it is something I am taking a fresh look at. I hope to think about this more carefully and see what can be done, Javid told BBC in reference to the Tier 2 visa cap that has hit doctors and other highly-skilled professionals from outside the European Union (EU).

His remarks came as a new "Scrap the Cap" campaign online petition raised over 1,600 signatures. The campaign, launched by the British Medical Journal' and backed by the UK's leading Indian doctors' association British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO) - is calling for a "common sense approach" to the UK's immigration system.

The cap under the Tier 2 visa category to allow companies to bring in professionals from outside the EU is set at 20,700 per year, with a monthly limit of around 1,600.

Until December last year, that limit had been exceeded only once in almost six years but since then that cap has been hit nearly every month.

According to latest figures,between December 2017 and March 2018, the UK Home Office refused over 1,500 visa applications from doctors.

A number of the ruling Conservative Party's own MPs have been lobbying the government for a review of the cap, which the home secretary seems to now be looking into.

Javid also indicated a possible softening of the UK government's immigration policy in other areas, distancing himself from the phrase "hostile environment" and adopting the phrase "compliant environment" that makes a clear distinction between illegal migrants and legal ones.

He said he would also "like to look at again" the inclusion of international students within the Conservative Party's manifesto commitment of an annual net immigration target, admitting there was a "perception problem" around the issue which may be deterring overseas students, including Indians, from coming to the UK.

The Pakistani-origin minister, who took charge of the UK Home Office following the resignation of Amber Rudd amid a scandal involving Caribbean migrants, countered allegations by the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) that the Conservative Party was rife with Islamophobia.

"Just look at who the home secretary is in this country, he said, adding that the MCB "does not represent Muslims".

He was referring to an open letter by the MCB earlier this week calling on the Conservative Party chair to launch an investigation and a full audit to remove racists and bigots from its fold.

It used the appearance of a controversial anti-Muslim speaker from West Bengal, Tapan Ghosh, at a seminar in the UK Parliament complex last year as an example of Islamophobic activities by some Tory MPs.

The allegations were repeated in another open letter by one of the party's own peers, Lord Sheikh, addressed to British Prime Minister Theresa May, calling on Downing Street to launch an investigation.

I call on you as the prime minister to take the following two steps immediately. Firstly, set up an independent inquiry we must investigate instances of Islamophobic conduct and isolate them swiftly, Lord Sheikh says in the letter.

Secondly the Prime Minister should reach out to all outreach groups of the Conservative Party such as the Conservative Muslim Forum and actively engage in dialogue, the letter adds.

The Conservative Party said it takes all such allegations seriously.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Britain's high-security prison units created to house the country's most dangerous convicted terrorists, dubbed as "jihadi jails", are going empty as the Prison Service fears being legally challenged on human rights grounds.

Fewer than half the jail cells created to hold Britain's most dangerous Islamist terrorists are occupied, despite an unprecedented threat from Islamist extremists, according to The Sunday Times.

The Prison Service is failing to lock up terrorists in the "separation centres" created for them, because it fears being sued for breaching their "human rights", the report quoted prison sources as saying.

"The Prison Service can easily find more terrorists to place in the separation blocks, but they're afraid of the legal challenge and of being accused of breaching human rights," the source said.

While there are more than 160 convicted terrorists in prison, only seven, including the notorious Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary, have been moved to the units.

The units were created to house those who pose a significant "national security threat" and were introduced after an investigation into prison extremism commissioned in 2015.

The UK's Prison and Probation Service guidelines say referrals to hold prisoners in the separation units must be "legally defensible".

The blocks can house 18 people in single cells on three high-security sites, including Her Majesty's Prison (HMP) Full Sutton in East Yorkshire and HMP Frankland in Durham.

The HMP Woodhill centre in Milton Keynes has six cells and had been due to open this month but is still empty.

"We have delivered on our plans to separate the most dangerous subversive prisoners, preventing their influence over others," said a statement from the UK's Ministry of Justice.

UK's 'jihadi jaiils'Behind Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma's claim that journalism began in ancient India, is there the RSS belief that mythical peripatetic sage Narada was the "first journalist of the entire universe"?



Sharma, who has a Ph.D. in Psychology, started his political career as a member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, the student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh.

Linking modern technology to ancient India, he had on Wednesday said that journalism started in the Mahabharata era and equated Narada with the present-day Google.

Narendra Jain, the RSS's regional publicity in-charge, corroborates: "Narada was the first journalist of the entire universe. No two ways about it. It's a matter of faith. A debate on the issue will be futile."



"Naradaji worked for world peace. Both devtas and danavs respected him. He endeavoured to unite all into one family," he says.

"Naradaji was a master communicator. He knew the crux of journalism. The Maharishi followed the basics tenets of journalism ages ago. He was omnipresent as journalists are required to be," another RSS leader says.

According to Jain, the RSS celebrates Narada's birth anniversary across the country in May as per the traditional Hindu calendar. The Hindu organization also awards "deserving journalists" on the occasion.

Sharma, who was a professor in the Lucknow University before he took charge as UP deputy chief minister, had said that Narada was the epitome of information. He could reach anywhere and transfer a message from one place to another by saying Narayana' thrice.

The BJP minister was speaking at an event organized in Mathura to mark the Hindi Journalism Day".

He had also said that the mythological character Sanjaya, sitting at Hastinapur, narrated a bird's eye view of the war of Mahabharata to the blind king Dhritarashtra.

In April, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who is known for his unwavering loyalty to the RSS, had linked Narada with Google.

He had said that Narada had information about everything happening in the entire world. Just like Narad Muni, Google is the source of information, he had said.

Rupani, who had joined an RSS shakha as a schoolboy, graduated to the BJP via the ABVP.

His Tripura counterpart Biplab Deb, who served the RSS for 16 years, had drawn ridicule for his remarks that Internet existed in the Mahabharata era. He had claimed that India had been using the Internet since ages and that satellite also existed at that time.

In Mahabharata, Sanjay narrated the war to Dhritarashtra. This was due to Internet and technology.

Days after Deb's 'Internet in Mahabharata era' comments, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked the BJP MPs and MLAs to refrain from making controversial statements and providing "masala" to the media.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Life has come to a standstill for the family of 39-year-old police constable Jitendra Singh, who met with an accident while on duty and is in a state of coma for the past nine years.

As Singh struggles for life at a hospital in Agra, his family struggles to make ends meet.

Though the government provides 'extraordinary pension' to policemen killed while performing their duties, there is no such provision in place to provide help in such cases, where a non-gazetted policeman goes in coma.

With a view to provide help to such victims, Director General of Police (DGP) OP Singh has sent a proposal to the government requesting that an extraordinary pension be provided to the family or entire salary for the 'coma' period.

As per the 1975 UP Police regulation, extraordinary pension is paid only to those who die performing their duties fighting with dacoits, armed criminals or militants.

"Sometimes such a situation arises when a policeman while performing duties gets injured in an encounter or meets with an accident due to which they go in 'coma'.

"Under such circumstances, all his leaves exhaust and his family faces financial crisis. Taking note of the genuine problem of the family members of such devoted policemen, the DGP has sent a proposal to the government that would help such families," DGP, PRO, Rahul Srivastava told PTI.

The move will come to the aid of victims like Jitendra Singh, who met with an accident while coming to Kanpur Dehat from Agra on January 7, 2009 with important letters.

"While constable Varun Kumar Mishra accompanying him died, Jitendra was seriously injured and was admitted to a hospital where he is lying in coma since then", his wife Uma Rajput told PTI.

As per existing provisions, Mishra's family is getting extraordinary pension.

"Presently Jitendra is undergoing treatment in Agra. After the accident, he was treated in Kanpur and Lucknow....As we are not getting anything (financial help), it's difficult for me to run the family," Uma, who has a 12-year-old son, said.

According to Home department officials, the proposal is "under consideration" and is likely to be accepted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union minister Hansraj Ahir today said the government would be "constrained" to revoke the Ramzan ceasefire it had announced last month if Pakistan continued to indulge in cross-border firing and terrorism.

Ahir, the Union Minister of State for Home, said, "We had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan."



"We will be constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement," the minister said at a press conference at the Government Guest House here yesterday.

He added that the provisions of the truce allow India to retaliate if Pakistan initiates unprovoked firing.

Ahir said India continues to believe in the "no-first-strike" policy.

The government had on May 16 directed security forces in Jammu and Kashmir to follow what it called " non-initiation of combat operations" during the holy month of Ramzan.

The security forces, however, reserve the right to retaliate if attacked or if essential to protect the lives of innocent people, the ministry had said.

On the Narendra Modi government completing four years in office, Ahir said it had started a number of good schemes.

"A record USD 60.08 billion was received in foreign investments in 2016-17. This was possible due to the economic growth achieved under the NDA government," he said.

He claimed the Modi government had curbed the Naxal menace successfully and the rebels were now operating in a restricted area.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Growing tension over international trade could damage the airline industry and the world economy, global airlines and aviation executives warned on Sunday. The U.S. government has renewed tariff threats against China and imposed duties on steel and aluminium on U.S. allies Canada, Mexico and the European Union. "Any measures that reduce trade and probably consequently limit passenger travel are bad news," Alexandre de Juniac, director general of the International Air Transport Association, told Reuters at IATA's annual meeting in Sydney. The group represents most of ...MUMBAI (Reuters) - India wants to encourage aircraft makers to manufacture in the country, starting with components and moving eventually to complete aircraft, Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said on Sunday.In a series of messages on Twitter, Prabhu appealed to Airbus and Boeing Co to participate in the push as part of the government's flagship "Make In India" campaign, highlighting the growth potential of the booming market, which has been adding passengers and cutting fares.India's booming aviation market and economy needs more than 1,000 passenger planes and "many more" cargo planes, ...Train passengers in India have one common complaint that the trains don't come on time. But, maybe not anymore - except in some emergency situations. Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has asked senior Railway officials to improve train punctuality in one month or lose appraisal proportionately.

In 2017-2018 fiscal, 30 per cent trains were running late on the railway network.

During an internal meeting last week, the Railway Minister told Zonal Managers that they cannot hide behind the pretext of maintenance work to explain delays in train services. He warned the heads of Zonal Railways that delays in train services will defer their annual appraisals.

The Minister called out every zonal head individually and asked them to explain the poor punctuality figures. But, he came on heavily on Northern Railway- General Manager as his zone recorded 49.59 per cent punctuality performance till May 29- lowest on the index.

Last month, Prime Minister Modi had asked Piyush Goyal about the state of train punctuality and told him to improve it. A railway official told PTI that the Minister has taken a lot of flak for the delays, but Goyal knew it was a price he had to pay for the large-scale renewal of tracks. "However, the punctuality figures are way worse than what we had expected. Clearly, the zones are using maintenance work as an excuse to hide their inefficiency," the official said.

After Northern Railway, Northeast Frontier Railway and the Eastern Railway have performed poorly in punctuality performance index - 27 per cent and 26 per cent plunge respectively.

Railway Minister Goyal quoted media reports to explain how misusing resources have led to delays. He recalled a recent incident when engineers wasted Rs 25 lakh in a failed attempt to replace a girder at Nizamuddin railway station in New Delhi. "The Minister demanded accountability from the General Managers and said such wasteful blocks should not be taken. He was aghast that such unnecessary delays were happening during the holiday season when trains are in high demand," the PTI quoted an official as saying.

According the officials who attended the meeting, Goyal has made it clear that by June 30, if punctuality of the trains in all the zones does not go up then their General Managers will not be considered for promotion. He also said that their performance ratings will depend on where they figure on the delay list. The lower they are, the worse for them," the Minister added.

Earlier in April, the Minister, while addressing the 63rd Railway Week National Awards Function-2018, had said that "Punctuality of trains should be like that in Switzerland where clocks are set to the arrival of trains".

(With inputs from PTI)Free banking services, like ATM withdrawals, provided by banks to customers will not attract GST, but late payment charges on outstanding credit card bills and purchase of insurance policies by NRIs will attract the levy.

In a set of FAQs on applicability of Goods and Services Tax (GST) on banking, insurance and stock brokers sectors, the revenue department has clarified that transactions relating to securitisation, derivatives, future and forward contracts are exempt.

The clarification by the department keeping free banking services like cheque book issuance and ATM withdrawals outside the ambit of GST has put to rest the confusion prevailing over the issue.

Last month, the Department of Financial Services had approached the revenue department seeking exemption of these transactions from GST after the banks received service tax notice for free services offered to their clients.

Clarifying whether, services supplied without consideration to a recipient other than 'related party' / 'distinct person' taxable, the FAQ said Section 7 of the CGST Act, 2017 provides that services supplied without consideration to related persons or distinct persons only would qualify as 'supply'.

"Therefore, where the services are supplied by a supplier without consideration to an unrelated recipient or a person other than a related or distinct person, the same would not amount to supply and not liable to GST," it said.

On the levy of GST on insurance policies purchased by non-resident Indians (NRIs), it said the amounts from Non-Resident External Accounts are paid in Indian Rupees and are not received in convertible foreign exchange.

"Therefore, the conditions for export of services as provided under section 2(6) of IGST Act, 2017 are not satisfied. Life Insurance services in such cases would be treated as inter-State supplies and subject to GST," it said.

On whether GST will be levied on the exit-load of mutual funds, the department said exit load in the form of a fee (whether or not as a fixed percentage of the investment) is liable to GST.

"Even if the exit load is in the form of units in the fund, it may be concluded that the consideration received in money was later converted to NAV units," the FAQ said.

Besides, late payment of dues on credit card outstanding as well as interest on a finance lease transaction are taxable under GST.

The FAQ (frequently asked question) explained finance lease as a method of borrowing against the asset. The interest represents the time value of the money expended by the bank in financing the asset.

PwC Partner & Leader, Indirect Tax, Pratik Jain said the FAQs are very significant as globally the financial service sector is considered as most complex from GST standpoint.

"Transactions relating to securitisation, derivatives, future and forward contracts have been clarified to be exempt from GST, which have been debated since introduction of GST. While few aspects such as taxability of transactions between Indian and overseas offices of same bank still need some more clarity, industry would welcome the government's initiative," Jain said.

Clarifications around services provided by multiple branches and to multiple locations of customers would provide much needed certainty to the industry and reduce possibility of litigation, he said.Top officials of both public and private banks will tomorrow brief a parliamentary panel on the issue of mounting non-performing assets (NPAs) and banking frauds. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance headed by Veerappa Moily has called the Indian Banks' Association officials to appear before it tomorrow. The association has top officials of all the major banks in the country as its member.

As per a Lok Sabha bulletin, the panel will be briefed on the issue of rising NPAs and other matters related to banks. Members of the panel said there will also be discussion on the recent frauds in the banks. The meeting is being called after the RBI governor Urjit Patel had said the central bank did not have adequate powers to deal with public sector banks. The panel has also called Patel to brief on the same issue later this month. The committee was earlier briefed by Financial Services Secretary Rajiv Kumar about issues related to the banking sector.

Earlier, bankers appearing before a different parliamentary panel had said the 180-day resolution plan for NPAs under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) was not an adequate window. They had also suggested the emphasis should be on restructuring the stressed assets and that referring cases for resolution under the IBC should be the last option.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh, who is also a member of the committee, is likely to attend the meeting.

Gross NPAs of state-owned banks had crossed Rs 7.77 lakh crore at the end of December 2017, according to official data.Country's largest lender State Bank of India (SBI), which has not been able to invest in fintech start-ups despite earmarking funds, is now looking to modify rules to kickstart the infusion, a top official has said.

"We are a public institution and investments in start-ups are generally considered very risky. We understand that traditional way of investing will not work," chairman Rajnish Kumar told PTI on the sidelines of an event here over the weekend.

He said the bank, which has earmarked Rs 50 crore to invest in fintech start-ups, will be modifying the rules in order to plough-in the money.

"We want to spend the money which we have earmarked," Kumar stressed, adding that it is keen to create more companies like online retailer Flipkart and ride sharing app Ola, which define the country's prowess.

Kumar said SBI has a board-approved policy to support the fintech sector, which has passed the necessary oversight bodies like Central Vigilance Commission.

He said the bank has been able to make progress on two other aspects of the fintech engagements, including procuring goods from such startups and also playing an active role with the ecosystem through collaborations.

Kumar said the bank is also planning to invest Rs 25 crore to set up a collaborative innovation centre in the satellite city of Navi Mumbai to promote latest technologies.

The bank, which has 430 million customers or a third of the country's population, has worked with over 150 startups till now on various cutting edge technologies including chatbot, data analytics, etc, according to him.

The lender has held five editions of hackathons to collaborate and search for the best solutions, Kumar said.

At present, the entire bank runs from its global technology centre at Belapur in Navi Mumbai.Earlier this week, Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev-led Patanjali removed its Indian version of WhasApp - Kimbho - from Android's Play Store and iOS' App Store. Patanjali claimed that the instant messaging app was released for one-day trial and would be back on app stores officially very soon after technical development phase was over.

But, if you still see any Kimbho app on stores, those are the fake ones, according to Patanjali spokesperson S K Tijarawala.

After pulling out Kimbho from play stores, Patanjali spokesperson said: "We put our trial version of Kimbho app on Google Play Store and Apple Store for trial for a day only and we had witnessed around 1.5 lakh downloads in the first three hours. We thank the people for such encouraging response." He further said that the trial version of Kimbho app is no longer available for download on any platform. "We don't take any responsibility for many duplicate apps showing on anywhere," S K Tijarawala added.

While Patanjali claims that it was a day-long trial, experts believe that it was the security threat that prompted the company to pull down Kimbho. A French security researcher, who tweets under pseudonym Elliot Alderson, said that "when you make a press release and launch your app publicly, it's call an official launch. This is not how trial is done".

Ok, I will stop here. The #Kimbho #android #app is a security disaster. I can access the messages of all the users... - Elliot Alderson (@fs0c131y) May 30, 2018

Interestingly, the removal of Kimbho from stores had come soon after Elliot had called the messaging app a 'security disaster'.

Immediately after the launch, the French security researcher had claimed that he can access all the messages of users on Kimbho App. He said: "This KimbhoApp is a joke, next time before making press statements, hire competent developers... If it is not clear, for the moment don't install this app."

This @KimbhoApp is a joke, next time before making press statements, hire competent developers... If it is not clear, for the moment don't install this app. #Kimbho #KimbhoApp pic.twitter.com/wLWzO6lhSR - Elliot Alderson (@fs0c131y) May 30, 2018

Elliot isn't alone in believing that Kimbho was a security failure. Senior Counsel Prashant Mali, who is cyber security and cyber law expert, said that Patanjali's IT Team did the same thing as BHIM App. "No or little testing was done and such incidents expose huge data of Indian citizens to risk... such incident gives bad name to Make in India...Ramdev's team should understand Make in India means not make only the label in India but the product too and cyber safe one," Mali said.

Here are some of the features of Kimbho, as Patanjali claims

Kimbho is being promoted as a swadeshi messaging platform that will compete with Facebook's messaging app WhatsApp.

Kimbho has dozens of features to share Text, Audio, Photos, Videos, Stickers, Quickies, Location, GIF, Doodle and more.

Kimbho claims that the messages are end-to-end encrypted by AES and no data is saved on their servers or cloud.

Kimbho allows different themes within the application. The user can pick their favourite wallpaper and "get fresh experience every time."

Earlier this week, Patanjali formed an alliance with state run BSNL to offer co-branded - Swadeshi Samriddhi SIM cards to its employees.

(With inputs from PTI)news, latest-news

Good morning Canberra. Welcome to another working week! We're in for a partly cloudy day for Monday with a slight chance of a shower in the afternoon. Rug up - it'll be a top of 15 degrees. Here's what's making headlines. Making sporting news ... A groundbreaking three-way deal will see the ACT and NSW governments team up to help the Canberra Raiders secure their long-term NRL future and put them in the heart of the city. As part of the ACT budget, Fairfax Media can reveal the ACT government will announce $5 million in funding over three years for the Raiders centre of excellence at Northbourne Oval today. Their NSW counterparts have pledged $4 million, while the Raiders Group will fund the rest. Read David Polkinghorne's story here. A Canberra law firm representing a number of Commonwealth Games athletes seeking asylum in Australia says Home Affairs has rejected their clients request to postpone protection visa interviews so they can access psychological counselling. Earlier this month, Senate Estimates heard almost 200 Commonwealth Games athletes and officials applied for various visas - predominantly protection visas - after the Gold Coast event. Another 50 had remained in the country illegally. Emily Baker has the story. An ACT parliamentary inquiry on end-of-life chocies has heard how bed block at Canberra's only palliative care hospice, understaffed wards and poor communication made the final days of an 81-year-old unbearable. Reporter Katie Burgess tells the story of Phillip Higgs, whose daughter Michaelle Heine said while she believes her father would have wanted the option of euthanasia, the Canberra Hospital needed to have a palliative care ward with dedicated staff. Read the story here. Concerns have been raised after it was revealed Canberra Hospital's warm water exercise pool will close at the end of the month when the University of Canberra Rehabilitation Hospital opens. Pool users report that despite the new pool opening, the closure was short-sighted. Read Daniella White's story here. Earlier this year, the Gold Creek Homestead was put on the market for sale via a tender process by the Suburban Land Agency. But just days before final submissions were handed in, the agency has removed it from the market, saying it would "provide more time to work towards a better balance of social and financial benefits for the ACT community". Read my story here.

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A woman and two children have been treated by ACT Ambulance Service after a car crashed into a power pole on Jim Pike Avenue in Gordon. Emergency services were called to the scene just before 4pm on Sunday. Paramedics treated the woman and children before they were transported to Canberra Hospital in a stable condition for further assessment. ACT Fire and Rescue and ACT Policing also attended the scene. The crash is the likely cause of an outage in some parts of Banks, Conder and Gordon. Evoenergy is on route to investigate. According to the energy provider's website, power is expected to be restored by 6pm.

/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/f4c82b3d-34d7-451f-bb78-53c5fcc285a3/r0_115_2000_1245_w1200_h678_fmax.jpgnews, latest-news

Kathryn Allen remembers the first time she fell in love. His name was Kevin. A volunteer wildlife carer brought the tiny fruit bat into Ms Allen's practice, Parkway Veterinary Centre in Kambah, desperate for antibiotics. Having already had her rabies shot she became Kevin's full-time carer and nursed him back to good health. Oh my god, I loved that bat," she said. Walking away from that little bat, when I had to put him in with all of the adults, and he was upside down staring at me - " she said, imitating her beloved fruit bat's sad eyes and then her own sobbing as she waved goodbye. An article published by the CSIRO's Wildlife Research has valued the work of Australia's wildlife carers at a whopping $6 billion a year. Report authors Bruce Englefield, Melissa Starling and Paul McGreevy, from the University of Sydney, estimated at least 50,000 orphaned mammals were rescued, rehabilitated and released by volunteer wildlife carers each year, One joey cost a carer about $2000 a year plus 1000 hours of their life, they said. The report added that rearing or rehabilitating an injured animal "may have a deleterious effect on the health of wildlife carers, especially those who are suffering sleep deprivation from adhering to a one to three-hourly feeding schedule day and night". And "wildlife carers do not even have the comfort of knowing their efforts are serving any useful purpose, other than the personal satisfaction of caring", the authors said. ACT Wildlife wombat and macropod coordinator Lindy Butcher has cared for native animals for more than 20 years. She said most volunteers were involved because they cared about the impact of urban spread on Canberra's native animals. "Most of our animals come in here as the result of vehicle strikes, cat and dog attacks, caught in netting in fruit trees, so its all human impact that brings them into our care, and they all come in traumatised or injured," she said. "We all do it for the same reason: that we think its important to try to recover some of that and get the animals back out into the environment and reduce the losses." It's not often glamorous work. Ms Butcher's backyard is filled with buried dead animals. She once cared for a silvereye bird for six weeks; on its release from her home's deck it was swooped and killed by a currawong. Volunteer Cheryl Lefevre has 13 possums and two wombats living in what was once her lounge and dining room. Last week, ACT Wildlife phone and transport coordinator Tabitha Plovits was called out to help a possum bound by a rabbit trap and stuck in a tree, which was eventually euthanased after a traumatic rescue. But each said it was the wins - the extreme highes among the lows - that kept them going. Well, Im still around after all these years," volunteer Erika Guenther, who first started caring for injured native animals in 1995, said. "Sure, it affects you sometimes when you have a few dying on you or have to be put down, but there are the good days. And I think there are more good days than bad." The Wildlife Research article estimated wildlife carers throughout Australia contributed 186 million hours and $370 million to the care of injured native animals. Applying a $31-hourly rate to the work of wildlife carers, and adding the financial outlay, "the total amounts to about $6 billion of volunteer in-kind and financial input," the report said. "The wildlife carers who manage Australia's injured and orphaned native animals are a national asset that requires strategic nurturing with empathy, understanding, financial and psychological support if it is to remain viable and sustainable," it said. Dr Allen, who moved to Canberra from the United States, said she was often bewildered by the community's treatment of native animals. She encouraged more people to get involved in caring. "This is the capital of a country and its teeming with wildlife," she said. "Its special, and you would think if we could make people aware how special it is or that it exists here, that maybe there would be more finances, more people would be interested in helping." ACT Wildlife is desperate for volunteers and donations. Visit actwildlife.net for more information.

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The ACT government is expected to announce on Monday that it will invest $112 million in Canberra's health care system, with the money directed in large part to beds and surgeries. The funding, announced ahead of Tuesday's budget, will go to the Canberra Hospital's emergency department, hospital beds and the intensive care unit, as well as emergency and elective surgeries. A government spokeswoman said the $112 million represents an increase in funding for 2018-19, and will be continued across the four years of the budget. In a statement, Minister for Health and Wellbeing Meegan Fitzharris said the money would ensure a "sustainable funding base" for essential services to meet future growth and demand in Canberra. This investment will give greater flexibility to ACT Health to put more resources into emergency and critical care, more surgeries and more beds," she said. "And it will significantly improve the ability of Canberra Hospital to manage bed occupancy and patient flow for the ED and surgical areas." Of the funding, the government said $47.2 million would be for more acute care including the emergency department, the Intensive Care Unit and more hospital beds. This will significantly improve the capacity of Canberra Hospital to respond to unexpected demand, especially during the winter surge, and support high demand areas such as maternity services," Ms Fitzharris said. This will include increasing bed capacity by up to 80 beds over the next four years, with bed numbers flexing up and down as needed to respond to peaks in demand." She said there would be 72 more beds available in the 2018 winter season, almost double the number last year. As the major tertiary referral and trauma centre for the ACT and surrounding region, it is essential the Canberra Hospital continues to deliver the highest quality critical care services," she said. The money will also include $64.7 million, for a boost to elective surgeries and "sustainable funding" for emergency surgeries, the government said. Ms Fitzharris said the money would allow ACT Health to plan for 14,000 elective surgeries - an additional 1,000 surgeries every year - to help reduce wait times. The health minister said the money would also help the hospital manage the increase in demand for emergency procedures, which she said in recent years had been growing at a rate of six per cent per year. The ACT is now the health care hub for a region of over one million people, and that calls for a sustainable step up in our investment in frontline staff and health services for our community," she said. The ACT budget will be delivered on Tuesday.

/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/313b1f26-775a-4a1b-ade7-82cd73cf780d/r0_46_1024_625_w1200_h678_fmax.jpgAndhra Bank has released an employment notification calling out for aspirants to apply for the post of Sub-Staff. Those interested can check out the eligibility, salary scale, how to apply and the complete details of the government job here. Selected candidates can earn up to INR 18545 along with other benefits stipulated by the bank. The last date to apply for the government job is June 14, 2018.

Rajkot Nagarik Sahakari Bank Recruitment 2018 For Executives

Andhra Bank Recruitment 2018 Vacancy Details

CRITERIA DETAILS Name Of The Post Sub-Staff Organisation Andhra Bank Educational Qualification Class 10 graduate (should not have passed degree) Age Limit 18 to 25 years Skills Required Knowledge of local language Salary Scale INR 9560 to INR 18545 Job Location India Industry Banking Experience Freshers can apply Application Start Date June 1, 2018 Application End Date June 14, 2018

Also Read: Bank Jobs 2018: Apply For Chief General Manager Post At OSCB And Earn INR 112350

How To Apply For Andhra Bank Recruitment 2018

In order to apply for Andhra Bank Recruitment 2018, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log on to the Andhra Bank official website.

Step 2: Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the Careers tab.

Step 3: Click on the hyperlink that reads, Click here against Sub Staff Recruitment.

Step 4: Under Sub Staff Recruitment, click on the link that reads, Sub Staff Recruitment - Application.

Step 5: The application form will be displayed on the screen. Download and print it.

Step 6: Enter your particulars in the fields provided. Send the applications to Andhra Bank.

Andhra Bank Recruitment 2018 Application Format And Mailing Address

Superscribe on the envelope, "Application for the post of Sub-Staff" and send it to your zonal office address in the following format:

The Zonal Manager,

Andhra Bank,

HR Department,

Zonal office

Click here to read the detailed official notification.Photo: The Canadian Press A poster for a cannabis delivery service is shown in downtown Vancouver.

Marijuana businesses are growing in size and scope as Canada moves toward legalization of recreational pot, creating an increasingly daunting job for those tasked with enforcing the rules.

In Vancouver's bustling downtown, posters are plastered on lamp posts. It's not until you take a closer look that you spot the rolled joints inside a sandwich or buds among a plate of broccoli.

"Weed delivery. Simplified," the posters read.

Once an underground industry, marijuana delivery services are now advertising publicly, joining unlicensed retail stores and online shops as cannabis businesses openly skirting the existing law.

Officials have tried to shut them down, but efforts haven't always been effective and whether enforcement will fare any differently post legalization remains hazy.

It's still illegal for anyone to possess, produce, import, export, or transport marijuana until federal legislation is enacted, said Const. Jason Doucette, a spokesman for Vancouver police.

"Although these online (and) storefront dispensaries are essentially trafficking controlled substances, there is not enough manpower and time to conduct these investigations due to the sheer number of these operations," he said in an email.

"Police resources are very limited in terms of investigating cannabis offences, among the other workload that members have been given."

Doucette said it would be inappropriate to comment on the force's role post legalization, but he noted that officers "will be able to deal with public safety issues that arise."

The federal government has pledged to legalize recreational marijuana later this year and the Senate is set to hold a final vote on the legislation, known as Bill C-45, by June 7. Provinces and territories have been left to come up with their own regulations to control distribution and sales.

British Columbia's Ministry of Public Safety is hiring a "director of cannabis control" and a "community safety unit" to enforce new provincial legislation, although exact roles are still being determined.

Under the new rules, cannabis enforcement officers will be able to enter illegal retail operations without a warrant to seize product and records.

In B.C., the maximum punishment for selling pot outside of the provincial framework will be a $100,000 fine and 12 months in jail.

Post legalization, marijuana shops will need licences from both the municipality and the province to operate.

Vancouver is one of the few cities in Canada that already has regulations in place, after creating a bylaw to license medical marijuana shops in 2015 when the number of illegal retailers bloomed past 100.

Business licenses have now been handed out to 19 retailers, including four to so-called "compassion clubs"  non-profits that provide medical pot to patients in need  and dozens of other outlets are working their way through the licensing process.Photo: Google Street View

UPDATE: 10:40 a.m.

Firefighters quickly extinguished a small grass fire off Bulman Road and Old Vernon Road on Sunday.

A guard has been set up around the fire as of 10:35 a.m.

ORIGINAL: 10:25 a.m.

Firefighters are responding to a small grass fire near Kelowna International Airport on Sunday.

A small metre by a metre fire was sparked at about 10:30 a.m. near Bulman Road and Old Vernon Road.

Ellison Fire Department responded to the scene and is working to extinguish the small grass fire.Colorado's love for SUVs is stronger than ever, even as climate warmsEmail Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

I have an odd question today. Can you be better than the Bible? I suppose most Christians would summarily respond "no, of course not." Yet often people's lives and theology seem to suggest that they secretly think yes, they can. What is it with Christians trying to sanitize everything and pretty it up and make it nice? The Bible isn't always nice. In Galatians Paul suggests that the circumcision advocates go all the way and chop off a certain key body part. Wow. And as a popular Facebook meme suggests, when asked, "What would Jesus do?"  throwing over tables is a viable option.

Here's the thing. The Bible is not always neat and pretty and tied up with a bow. Sometimes daughter-in-laws seduce father-in-laws. Prostitutes make it into the lineage of Jesus. Men who are said to be after God's own heart also commit adultery and murder. Prophets eat food cooked over human dung. Then there's the Song of Solomon, a rather suggestive book that I sometimes wonder if Christian parents even allow their kids to read.

I recently saw a Facebook post by a fellow author asking someone to explain to her why Ruth lay down at Boaz's feet. She said this seemed rather risky and risque, and of course twenty or so comments tried to explain why it wasn't. Eventually I couldn't take it any longer and replied, "I think it was risky and risque, and I think God might have a message for us in that."

If the Bible is indeed (as we claim we believe) God's inspired Word to mankind, then we need to accept all of it, even when it's messy. And if it is indeed God's inspired Word, we can't be "better" than the behavior recommended in it. Of course I'm not talking about the bad behavior of specific individuals, but rather the Bible's prescribed behavior, particularly in the New Testament. When we try to be better, nicer, more pure, and more sanitized than the Bible itself, what we actually are is out of balance.

For example, while certain aspects of life like drinking alcohol or dancing can in some cases lead to sinful behavior, the Bible never says that either of these are sinful. Still, some denominations within Christianity try to turn them into sins. If someone chooses not to drink alcohol, that can be a wise decision, but if they judge others and treat it like a sin, they're out of balance. When they contrive elaborate theologies of why the wine Jesus turned the water into wasn't really wine, they're out of balance. And when you're out of balance, another word for that is just plain WRONG!

Paul says it is for freedom we've been made free. Satan wants us bound, God wants us to feel free to enjoy life so long as we follow his Spirit and stay within certain general guidelines. Getting drunk is a sin. Drinking wine is allowed if you can do it with self-control. Dancing with an intentional goal of seducing anyone other than your own spouse would seem to fall outside of those prescribed guidelines (although I don't think it's anyone's job to judge the motives of another person's heart), but dancing as worship is encouraged, and dancing to enjoy life and music and community is fine.

Or let's take kissing before marriage. The Bible never says it's wrong, yet some Christians today treat it like a sin, or a lack of purity. The Bible DOES say not to have sex outside of marriage, and yes, excessive and indiscriminate kissing could lead one down a wrong path. But that doesn't make kissing before marriage a sin.

You can't just go around making up sins for the sake of expediency! The same goes for dating. The Bible never mentions the system we call courtship or the system we call dating.

Adult Christians should feel free to make those sorts of choices for themselves and not be judged by other Christians. Again, remember that when we try to be better than the Bible, something is dangerously off course.

Quite frankly, based on my own reading of several books on courtship, I think some of the more extreme advocates have indeed steered off course. When young men and women are taught to feel impure every time their bodies experience natural, God-ordained sensations, they are being set up for problems later on in their marriages. How are they supposed to magically retrain their minds in one brief ceremony to enjoy what has been causing them perpetual guilt and turmoil for years? Guilt and turmoil that the Bible doesn't require.

Feelings aren't sin. Physical sensations aren't sin. What we do with those feelings and sensations determine our sinfulness or righteousness. If we choose to revel in them and fantasize over them, or worse yet to dive into them, that's very different than experiencing them and then making good decisions concerning them. It's very different than saying, "Dear Father God, I'm having these feelings and don't know what to do with them. Please guide me through this situation."

And even when we make poor decisions, God is there to forgive and restore us.

As an author who has written young adult fiction, I realize some of my readers might be teens, and so I remind you that children are instructed by the Bible to obey their parents. That message is clear. And adult children must still show their parents honor and respect, but they must also make their own decisions before God and take responsibility for their own choices.

On the flip side, to parents and church leaders I would say this. I grew up in the church, and trust me, kids who grow up in the church have excellent "b.s." detectors. They know when the adults in their lives are giving them rules that go beyond the Bible. And all that serves to do is undermine their credibility. When people try to make rock music, black fingernails, blue hair, and the like into "sin," they risk pushing others away from the true gospel message of freedom, grace, and redemption.

So here's what it all comes back to. Can you be better than the Bible? No. Not if you believe it's truly God's Holy Word, as we Christians claim to believe. So let's get real, authentic, even a little vulnerable. Let's stop living nice, safe, clean, pretty lives and embrace the more challenging existence of walking by the Spirit of God. Let's present a version of Christianity to the world that's not based on rules and limits, but on the immeasurable gift of God.

We can't be better than the Bible, we can only be out of balance. And out of balance is just plain wrong.21:04

Curfew in pockets of Shillong was relaxed for seven hours today, even as Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the violence that broke out on Thursday was a local issue and not communal in nature.





A team of Shiromani Akali Dal leaders from Delhi visited the Meghalaya capital in view of the clashes between two communities leaving at least 10 people injured.





The East Khasi Hills district authorities relaxed the curfew from 8 am to 3 pm to allow churchgoers to attend Sunday services, officials said.





"The problem is very much in a particular locality, on a particular issue. It just happened that two particular communities were involved, but it's not a communal thing," Sangma told a press conference in Shillong.





The clashes in parts of Shillong were given a communal colour by vested groups and a section of the media outside the state, he said.





A number of those arrested in connection with the violence are from outside East Khasi Hills district, in which Shillong falls, and they were given alcohol and cash by some people, he said.





The administration exercised restraint in the first 48 hours and met leaders of civil society organisations to ascertain if their members were involved.





"We came to know there is a large number of people who have come here from West Khasi Hills district and many of those nabbed by the police were from outside Shillong," he said.





The administration and the police are on the job to protect every individual, said Sangma, who chaired a meeting of officials of the home department and Director General of Police S B Singh earlier in the day.





Earlier, a SAD team, including MLA Manjinder Singh Sirsa and the party's Delhi unit president Manjit Singh, met the residents of the violence-affected area.





The SAD team also called on the chief minister.





"I am happy to inform you that the delegation was very happy with the response of the state government to ensure that all citizens are given protection," he said.





Officials told PTI that the curfew was promulgated in 14 localities under the jurisdictions of the Lumdiengjri police station and the Cantonment police beat house resumed at 3 pm.





Night curfew will continue in the entire city from 10 pm till 5 am, and Internet and messaging services continue to remain suspended, the official said. -- PTI

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Read Part 1, Part 2.

"God forgive us for selling out our great intellectual treasurethe gospel of God with usfor a mess of psychobabble and pragmatic, utilitarian, self-help triviality." (emphasis in the original)

So said United Methodist Bishop William Willimon in his foreword to Michael Horton's book, Christless Christianity.

Trivialization is a sure mark of delusion. Trashing a treasure to focus on its counterfeit indicates disassociation, resulting in the inability to recognize true value.

Contemporary culture urgently needs true value, but important facets of the Church within society that could provide it have suffered breakdown. Horton laments a "recurring emphasis" that preaches that "human beings are victims and being lost no longer means being damned but lacking direction in life." (emphasis in original)

Jesus Christ is the hope of the world. The Church is to minister this hope. Again, it is the "soul" of the culture. If that "soul" suffers breakdown, it spreads into the broader culture.

Hence, the healing of the sickened society must start in the Church. Truly, "it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God." (1 Peter 417)

People suffering psychological breakdown are said to have gone off the "deep end," losing mental, emotional, and volitional balance. They need restoration of equilibrium in thought and deed. This is the only way stability and steadiness can be restored to the psycheand what happens in the psuche (the New Testament Greek word translated "soul," and from which we get "psyche") will ultimately afflict the body.

After decades of direct participation in the Church and culture wars, I submit the following as some of the areas where the Churchespecially evangelicals (including me) who stress biblical authority as the basis of worldviewmust recover equilibrium:

We must recover the balance between transcendence and immanence.

God, dwells in the "highest heaven" (2 Chronicles 6:18), is "high and lifted up" (Isaiah 6:1) in His transcendent majesty, and is also the "God (who) is love." (1 John 4:8) The extreme of transcendence leads to Deism, to a god so remote he may as well be dead (think Nietzsche, Altizer and the 1960s God-is-dead movement), then agnosticism, and finally to atheism. Immanence in the extreme leads to the obsession and worship of self of which contemporary celebrity-selfie-phenomena are sacraments.

We must re-establish the equilibrium between engagement and separation.

As the "Body of Christ" in the world, churches must continue the Lord's incarnational ministry. However, when we forget our identity as the Body of Christ within culture, we lose the distinctive abilities to help heal culture. In David's day, Nathan was a prophet in the king's house, but he never forgot that he was God's man in the king's house. The Church is to be both pastoral and prophetic.

The Church must maintain the equilibrium between relevancy and biblical authority.

Relevancy is important, but must not displace the authority of the Bible. Like David in the tragic case of Bathsheba, contemporary culture urgently needs someone who will tell it hard truth, as Nathan did David. Contemporary society is controlled by the stern authoritarianism of the new cultural religion of progressivism. The spirit of the age must not displace the Spirit of the Lord, or the Church will be powerless.

We must hold fast to the balance between style and theology.

Let our styles of music, media, books, and other forms of worship and proclamation communicate effectively to the contemporary ear. But we must resist the temptation to allow the thematic content to be shaped by the latest cultural novelties. Let us sing the "new song," but with faithfulness to the ancient truths.

We must find and operate in the equilibrium between predestination and freewill.

One extreme in contemporary evangelical debate sees predestination in the absolute, stifling evangelism. The other extreme at times treats predestination and election as if they were not part of biblical truth. The equilibrium is in 1 Peter 2:9"... you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a people of God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light..." God does not wish "for any to perish but for all to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:8-10) Evangelism and mission constitute the balance-point in the debate: God has predestined some so that all might have opportunity to become part of the elect of God, according to His foreknowledge.

To implement our incarnational mission within and toward the culture we must function in the healthy equilibrium of Word and Spirit.

To separate the Word from spiritual ministry is to fall into frenzy. To marginalize the Holy Spirit under the demands of human-contrived doctrines is to be locked in tight form. The Church in our crazy age must minister powerfully in the Spirit, but within the parameters of biblically revealed truth.

Four decades ago I left the White House after three years of service there with a searing conviction that has only intensified: the most powerful, vital agency in the world is not found in Washington, or any other center of global power, but in the genuine Churchespecially in its local expression. Human power may be able to ignite revolutions, but it is through the genuine Churchwhatever it calls itself denominationallythat the Holy Spirit can minister transformation to society and its culture.

We must not devalue ourselves. Judgment must begin with "the household of God." We must recover biblically based, Spirit-revealed sanity where we have lost it.

All our efforts at cultural healing are useless without that.

Wallace Henley is senior associate pastor at Houston's Second Baptist Church, and Chair of Belhaven University's Master of Ministry Leadership degree. He is a former White House and Congressional aide, and co-author of "God and Churchill", with Winston Churchill's great-grandson, Jonathan Sandys.Southwark Cathedral hosts services marking one year since London Bridge attacks

Southwark Cathedral is marking the first anniversary of the attack on London Bridge and the Borough Market throughout the day today. Visitors with gather for the 11am Eucharist or simply to come in to light a candle.

The main event will be a Service of Commemoration at 3pm, providing an opportunity for the families and friends of those who died, the survivors and first responders to come together and to remember.

The service will also recognise all that has happened in the community since the attack. During the service four new corbels will be blessed, one of which depicts PC Wayne Marques, one of the first responders who was injured in the attack. At the end of the service the Bishop of Southwark, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun will bless an olive tree  'The Tree of Healing'  as a permanent memorial to those who died. This will be planted using compost made from flowers left on London Bridge after the attack.

Later in the day Southwark Cathedral will host its second Grand Iftar which, this year, will also mark the anniversary of the London Bridge attacks and will bring all communities together to celebrate Ramadan, and celebrate the diversity of those who live and work in the Bankside area. It is organised in conjunction with the Bankside Residents Forum.

Alison Clarke, is artist in residence at the Cathedral for May 21  June 14. During this period there is an exhibition of three pieces of her work entitled Broken Beauty which has been especially commissioned to mark the first anniversary of the London Bridge attack.Police arrested four people suspected of robbing a T-Mobile store in northwest Houston, the Houston Police Department said.

The individuals in custody allegedly robbed the store at 9102 W. Sam Houston Saturday afternoon before leading officers on a seven-mile car chase to U.S. 290.

The department said the Harris County sheriff's office responded to the robbery and called on HPD to help during the chase.

The chase ended at Guhn Road. No one was injured.A cigarette caught in a couch started the Saturday evening house fire in Spring that landed two people in the hospital, officials said a day after the blaze.

The flames broke out in the 22700 block of Millgate around 6:30 p.m., drawing crews from the Spring Fire Department. The front of the house was already on fire by the time fire engines arrived, according to Assistant Fire Chief Robert Logan.They've replaced egg nog with pina coladas. Instead of snow, they have sand. And while everyone is focused on the North Pole, their eyes are set on flying south. These are the people who've made a holiday tradition of escaping colder weather to spend time on the beach.

But after a particularly harsh hurricane season, some travelers are concerned about returning to their winter escapes.

TAKE NOTE: You might not know these TSA rules, like you can pack an entire cake

Comparison group Price of Travel has compiled and ranked the cheapest Caribbean islands to travel to in 2018. Not only did they look at the price of traveling there, they also took note of what affect the 2017 hurricanes had on the islands, thanks to information from Caribbean Travel Update online.

"The hurricanes had an interesting effect on the rankings. Strangely enough, nearly all of the cheaper islands and destinations were untouched by major storms," said Roger Wade, the creator of the annual ranking for the Price of Travel. "The ones that got hit hardest are the more expensive ones. So the cheaper half of the list didn't change much at all, at least based on the storms."

The criteria for the ranking was the sum of the average cost of a 3-star hotel for a 7-night stay and two tickets for flights from New York City (since it's one of the furthest American cities from the Caribbean). Lucky for us, flights from more southern locations will typically be a fraction of the price.

To see what islands made the annual list, go through the photos in the gallery above.

Keep in mind that every nation has different standards for what a 3-star hotel is. A 3-star hotel in one nation may not even amount to a 1-star hotel in another. For new travelers, it's important to research what criteria is included for a 3-star hotel in your country of choice.

Bermuda, Turks & Caicos and The Bahamas were included in the ranking even though they technically aren't defined as Caribbean islands. These were included as good alternatives for a Caribbean-like scenery, according to the methodology used by Price of Travel.

BE KIND: Tip these people while traveling to avoid looking like a jerk

Furthermore, it is important to mention that the CDC has travel notices for the majority of the Caribbean islands, because of the Zika virus. So, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, keep the CDC's warning in mind before traveling. If not, just be sure you load up on mosquito spray and remember that the Zika virus can be transmitted through sexual intercourse, as well.Several restaurants had to throw out food this week after Houston health inspectors determined it should not be consumed by patrons.

Inspectors condemned approximately 180 pounds of food from a restaurant that serves comfort food.Seven in 10 Democrats want to establish a Canada-style single-payer system. Progressive lawmakers are even more gung-ho.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., has introduced a Medicare for All bill modeled on Canadas system. Sixteen of his Democratic colleagues have co-sponsored it. Meanwhile, over 60 percent of Democrats in the House are behind a similar bill.

Before Americans rush to implement Canadian-style health care, they should ask their northern neighbors about life under single-payer. Their answers would surely curb American enthusiasm for the concept.

According to a new study from the Commonwealth Fund, one in three Canadian seniors isnt satisfied with the care she receives  a far larger share than in any similar country, including the United States.

One of the reasons theyre unhappy? They have to wait months for care. In Nova Scotia, elderly patients must queue up for more than 600 days for a hip replacement and more than 700 days for a knee replacement. Patients in Manitoba seeking cataract removal, meanwhile, typically wait more than 12 weeks for an appointment with an ophthalmologist and another 41 weeks for surgery.

Even Canadas medical establishment agrees the countrys government-run system is ill-equipped to care for seniors. As the Canadian Medical Association put it, Canadas healthcare system was not built to meet the challenges of our aging population.

Across the entire country, the median wait for care from a specialist following referral from a general practitioner was a record 21.2 weeks last year, according to the Fraser Institute, a Canadian think tank. Thats more than double the 9.3-week wait that Canadian patients faced a quarter-century ago.

More than three-quarters of Canadians believe that patients who have been on waiting lists longer than recommended for their condition should be able to pay for private treatment. Canadian law effectively prohibits them from doing so.

Wait times will worsen as the share of seniors  who utilize above-average amounts of care  grows. By 2024, more than one in five Canadians will be 65 or older. By 2036, seniors will account for a quarter of the population.

The United States is experiencing a similar demographic shift. Seniors will comprise more than 20 percent of the population by 2030. Yet our admittedly flawed healthcare system is doing a far better job of caring for older citizens than Canadas.

According to the Commonwealth Fund survey, three in four of Americans 65 or older are satisfied with the care they receive. Thats a larger share than Australia, France, and Canada.

Its especially telling that American seniors are most satisfied with healthcare programs that are based on private competition. Medicare Advantage, for instance, offers seniors a choice of private plans that contract with Medicare to provide benefits. In one survey, 88 percent of Medicare Advantage participants were satisfied with their coverage. Medicare Part D, which enables seniors to purchase subsidized prescription drug coverage from a range of private providers, enjoys similarly high approval ratings.

There are many things the United States can do to improve care for older patients. Mimicking Canada isnt one of them.

Sally C. Pipes is President, CEO, and Thomas W. Smith Fellow in Health Care Policy at the Pacific Research Institute. Her latest book is The False Promise of Single-Payer Health Care (Encounter). Follow her on Twitter @sallypipes.College students originally from Detroit, as a part of Repair the World, volunteered in the Meyerland area of Houston over Memorial Day weekend.

According to WeRepair.org, Repair the World was founded in 2009 to make meaningful service a defining element of American Jewish life. Repair mobilizes young Jews to volunteer in tackling pressing local needs each year, and Repair equips communities and partners to do the same. These volunteers help transform neighborhoods, cities, and lives through meaningful service experiences rooted in Jewish values, learning, and history.

Repair the World is an organization for high schoolers and young adults. Alumni of the Detroit group, now in college, were invited to come to Houston to help out.

Repair the World has multiple layers, said volunteer Ellery Rosenzweig, a junior at University of Michigan. It is of course about service, but it goes beyond that. A lot of it is about building relationships. We want to understand the personal stories and narratives of the cities we are in.

The service trip was part of Act Now Houston (ANH), an initiative of the emerging Leadership Coalition for Jewish Service and the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, which places volunteer groups within ongoing recovery work coordinated by on-the-ground national and local agencies.

Max Feber, one of the volunteers and a sophomore at Babson College in Massachusetts, said that he was confused at first when he found out about this opportunity, but it had been an eye opening experience in the end. He didnt realize recovery could be that long term.

My first reaction was, what you you mean they still need help? It has been nine months, Feber said.

On the first day, the group went to the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, to learn about what happened with Hurricane Harvey. They toured the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center, which had been under water. They also took a driving tour of the community.

In the afternoon, they volunteered with Undies for Everyone, an organization that packs and gives out clean underwear to hospitals and schools. In the evening they helped clean out the backyard of a family that was still removing items from their flooded home.

It it something to see when someones whole life can sit in 50 garbage bags outside, Feber said. It might have been something very important. It was eye opening to see everything cleaned up. These people had nothing now and there was nothing they could have done about it.

On the second day they helped to rebuild the home of an elderly woman along side volunteers with SBP, a rebuild organization that aims to shrink the time between disaster and recovery. On their third and last day they volunteered with an organization called West Street Recovery, (WSR) a grassroots group that formed after the hurricane. With WSR, they helped drywall a home.

We went to three different homes. At two of them we met the homeowners. It made it more humanized. To let people come into your home and work for a day, it can be eye opening. They needed our support. They were all kind. If it was me, I think I would be concerned to let strangers help, but they were happy for us to be there. They just want to get back in their home and get their life back to where it was, Rosenzweig said.

Both Rosenzweig and Feber enjoyed the community feel of Houston, and said it reminded them of back home in Detroit.

All of Houston was just helping each other. It was really cool to see, Feber said. Everyone was so nice and warm. It was a welcoming city.The annual Children At Risk ratings are out, and a familiar name has returned to the top of the Houston-area's elementary school rankings.

Houston ISD's T.H. Rogers School reclaimed its first-place ranking in the 2018 report after a three-year hiatus atop the list of the region's highest-performing elementary school campuses. The 930-student campus, which also serves middle school students and a handful of high school students, bested nearly 900 others in the nonprofit's annual report.A Houston man is at large after he allegedly ran over four people early Sunday, killing one as he backed over her body and circled around to hit her again.

The chaos started after 38-year-old Dixa Rios climbed out of a car with two male friends around 2 a.m. near Telephone and McHenry, according to Houston police.

Police believe her ex-boyfriend, Rigoberto Alexander Escobar, was lying in wait nearby. When he spotted the woman walking toward JoJo's Club, he allegedly revved the engine of his gray Ford truck and drove straight into her.

He dragged her body a little ways and witnesses tried to get him to stop, according to Houston police.

"Apparently the suspect did not care, put the vehicle in reverse and ran her over again," Sgt. Joshua Horn told reporters.

Then, he drove away, made a u-turn and came back to hit her again before fleeing, authorities said.

It's not clear at what point she died.

Three other men - Adan Salgado, Celso Velasquez and Maneesh Roberts - were hurt in the crash, and one ended up with a broken foot. They were all taken to local hospitals for treatment but their conditions are unknown.

Escobar, who police say is in his mid-30s, is believed to be driving a 2002 to 2005 silver or beige Ford F-150 pickup truck with Texas license plate number GTJ-7424.

Anyone with information on Escobar's whereabouts can call HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.A man with a gas mask, ammunition and "lots of weapons" sparked an hours-long SWAT standoff in west Houston that began late Saturday and lasted well into Sunday morning, according to police.

The suspect, a convicted felon who allegedly cursed at police and shouted about chemtrails, was taken into custody and is expected to face a number of charges, authorities said.

Police first showed up just before midnight, responding to reports of shots fired in the 2100 block of Fountainview.

But after checking around, they didn't see any possible shooters or evidence of gunfire, so they left. A short while later, authorities got another call to the same area - and this time they had more specific information.

After officers narrowed down their search to apartment 14, they started talking to the man inside, who cursed and yelled at them for over an hour, according to Capt. Larry Baimbridge.

Metro Video

Then, police heard a gunshot and tried to breach the door, unsure if the man had shot himself. Once they heard him rack another round, though, officers backed off and called for SWAT.

After getting a warrant, the SWAT team tossed gas into the home, but it had no effect. They tried breaching the door and found it barricaded. Eventually, they got in and the suspect shouted out that he was ready to surrender.

"He had lots of weapons," Baimbridge said. Police also recovered "lots" of ammunition and a gas mask.

"He was definitely prepared for a lengthy stand-off," Baimbridge added. It's not clear why he holed up at home with weaponry, but police said he ranted about chemtrails and fluoride in the water.

Since the suspect is a convicted felon, he'll likely face a charge of felony in possession of a weapon and deadly conduct. He could face other charges as well.

"I would hope that with these charges," Baimbridge said, "he would be looking at a very, very lengthy sentence so we won't have to deal with this again."It looked like a real snake. And federal agents discovered, over and over again, it was.

A Houston woman who ran a fashion business specializing in python pillows, purses, sandals and bracelets pleaded guilty in a Houston federal courtroom Thursday to illegally importing more than 1,800 undeclared items made of python or stingray skin in more than a dozen DHL shipments from Indonesia over a two year period. She had written on invoices for the items that were made from cow leather, rubber or synthetic animal hide.

Annsley Popov, who claims on her website that her national boutique retail supplier, Presmer LLC, was born of her obsession with her first pair of snakeskin stiletto heels, pleaded guilty on behalf of herself and the business to smuggling the goods into the country. The 42-year-old admitted before U.S. Magistrate Judge Nancy Johnson in Houston that she failed to obtain the proper permits or file truthful declarations about the merchandise.

The business owner is set to be sentenced Sept. 4 before Chief U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal, at which time she faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Her company could be on probation for up to five years and faces a fine of up to $500,000.

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Popov and her attorney did not respond to requests for comment.

The case was brought by the Environmental Crimes division of the U.S. Justice Department after a USDA inspector at George Bush Intercontinental Airport found a package at the DHL sorting facility on Dec. 22, 2011. The package was addressed to Popovs home address, and contained 31 python skin handbags and 160 python skin bracelets.

The shipment from Indonesia lacked the permit required to import goods made from endangered species, according to court documents. A special agent from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service met with Popovwho had only been in business since 2010to discuss this intercepted package and alert her to the proper permitting for such imports. The agent issued a violation and she forfeited the goods, according to court records.

A USDA inspector found another questionable shipment addressed to Popovs home on Feb. 11, 2013. This package contained 44 purses made from python skin, 11 whole python skins and 230 pieces of decorative chain made of the material, the agent said. This shipment also lacked the proper documentation, according to court records. The documents included with the package said it had synthetic wallets and clutch purses.

BIG HAUL: Coast Guard bust off Texas coast nets 9 eels, 24 sharks, 187 red snappers

This time federal agents sent along the package, but only after after secretly marking the python skin handbags.

Then on Mar. 28, 2013, an undercover agent purchased a python skin handbag at a boutique in Houston that showed the clandestine marking made by the USDA agent one month prior.

In May of that same year, a USDA inspector found another suspicious shipment, lacking the proper declaration and permitting, addressed to Popov with 202 pairs of python skin sandals, four python purses and 131 stingray skin cuff bracelets, according to court documents. Instead the shipping documents said Popov had ordered 232 pairs of rubber sandals, synthetic wallets and synthetic cuff.

Investigators later reviewed the companys DHL shipments between December 2011 and May 2013 and discovered at least 13 shipments with approximately 1,865 undeclared items made from python or stingray skin. The first two shipments stated the items were cow leather. The next 11 shipments identified the items inside as synthetic or rubber products.

Gabrielle Banks covers federal court for the Houston Chronicle. Follow her on Twitter and send her tips at gabrielle.banks@chron.com.A look at candidate nationalities and other admissions data from IRCC's 2017 year-end review of the Express Entry system

Top 10 countries of citizenship that received the most Express Entry Invitations To Apply in 2017

Top 10 countries of citizenship that received the most Express Entry Invitations To Apply in 2017 A look at candidate nationalities and other admissions data from IRCC's 2017 year-end review of the Express Entry system

Top 10 countries of citizenship that received the most Express Entry Invitations To Apply in 2017 A look at candidate nationalities and other admissions data from IRCC's 2017 year-end review of the Express Entry system

Top 10 countries of citizenship that received the most Express Entry Invitations To Apply in 2017 A look at candidate nationalities and other admissions data from IRCC's 2017 year-end review of the Express Entry system Eman Katem Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif

Sans Font Size A

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A new report on the Government of Canadas Express Entry economic immigration system shows candidates from India and China led their fellow Express Entry candidates in invitations to apply for Canadian permanent residence in 2017.

The following table provides a comparison of the top 10 nationalities of Express Entry candidates issued Invitations to Apply in 2016 and 2017.

Top 10 countries of citizenship in 2016 and 2017

Country of Citizenship Express Entry ITAs  2016 Country of Citizenship Express Entry ITAs  2017 India 11,037 33% India 36,310 42% China 2,741 8% China 7,466 9% Philippines 1,736 5% Nigeria 5,130 6% United Kingdom 1,544 5% Pakistan 3,339 4% United States 1,319 4% United Kingdom 2,652 3% Ireland, Republic Of 1,227 4% United States 2,030 2% Nigeria 1,041 3% Brazil 1,672 2% Pakistan 949 3% Iran 1,382 2% Australia 849 2% Ireland, Republic Of 1,274 1% France 830 2% Australia 1,264 1% Other 10,509 31% Other 23,503 27% 33,782 100% 86,022 100%

This data along with other interesting insights from the Express Entry pool were revealed as part of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)s review of the Express Entry economic immigration system in 2017.

The top three occupations invited last year were all in the Information and Technology sector, a sector that has long tapped highly skilled talent from India.

The top occupations were Information Systems Analysts and Consultants, Software Engineers and Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers.

To find out if you are eligible for Canadian immigration, complete our free online assessment now.

BC, Ontario and Alberta are top destination provinces

The report also looks at the number of permanent resident admissions by province. Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta led once again as the top three destination provinces for permanent residents in 2017.

There were also noteworthy increases in the Atlantic Canada provinces of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. The number of admissions in all three economic programs managed by the Express Entry system and Canadas Provincial Nominee Programs increased by 40 per cent in Nova Scotia and more than doubled in New Brunswick.

Canadas prairie region also witnessed growth with Saskatchewan and Manitoba reporting increases in admissions in 2017.

Overall, 65,401 overseas applicants and their family members landed as permanent residents in Canada through immigration programs managed by the Express Entry system in 2017.

For more information on settling in one of Canadas provinces and territories, visit our Life in Canada page.

The map below illustrates the provincial distribution of newly admitted permanent residents under Express Entry immigration categories. The province of Quebec manages its economic immigration programs outside the Express Entry system.

To find out if you are eligible for Canadian immigration, complete our free online assessment now.

 2018 CICNews All rights ReservedThe government has appointed four industry champions to work on releasing billions of pounds worth of dormant assets for the voluntary sector.

Champions for the insurance and pensions, banking, investment and wealth management, and securities industries have been announced as part of a plan to expand the current dormant assets scheme, which could see a further 2bn made available to the charity sector.

Funds from bank accounts that have been dormant for over 15 years are already released to the Reclaim Fund, which is responsible for distributing the money to good causes. So far over 1bn has been passed to the Reclaim Fund under the 2008 Dormant Bank and Building Society Accounts Act.

In December 2015 the Office for Civil Society appointed Nick ODonohoe, former chief executive of social lender Big Society Capital, to head up a commission to look at unlocking other assets such as pensions, insurance and shares.

When ODonohoe reported back in March 2017 he said that there was potentially 2bn available, and the then minister for civil society, Rob Wilson, said it would be used to transform the charity sector.

The four champions will now work with stakeholders and the Reclaim Fund and report back to Tracey Crouch, minister for civil society, and John Glen, economic secretary to the Treasury.

As part of their work the champions will also look at ways to reunite customers with their assets.

Crouch said the dormant asset scheme had so far made real difference.

I look forward to working alongside these four experts to see how more unclaimed assets can be used to help communities in the future, she added.

Glenn said that the scheme depends on the support of businesses.

He said: Im delighted that these highly-experienced business leaders have agreed to be our new industry champions. Their expertise will be vital as we look at ways to expand the scheme, and I look forward to working with them to reach even more people.

Who are the industry champions?

Insurance and pensions industry champion - Kirstine (Kirsty) Cooper

Aviva (group general counsel and company secretary)

Kirsty joined Aviva in 1991 and is the group general counsel and company secretary for Aviva plc and heads the office of the chairman. She was appointed to the Group Executive in May 2012. She currently sits as a director on the board of Aviva Insurance Limited.

Banking industry champion - Simon Kenyon

Lloyds Banking Group (managing director for consumer banking)

Simon Kenyon is the managing director for consumer banking within the retail division of Lloyds Banking Group. He is responsible for mortgages, savings, personal current accounts and business banking in the UK. In Europe, he has responsibility for the Dutch mortgage and German deposits businesses.

Investment and wealth management champion - William (Will) Nott

M&G (strategic adviser)

Will Nott was CEO of M&G Securities, the retail funds business of M&G, from 2006-2017. In June 2017 he was elected president of the European Fund and Asset Management Association (EFAMA), the leading European investment management association, after serving a two year term as its vice-president.

William has worked at M&G since graduating from Warwick University in 1984. Having managed retail and institutional funds for the first twelve years of his career, he gained commercial experience as head of institutional business development and then head of group sales. In June 2000, he became CEO of M&G International to oversee development of M&Gs fund distribution overseas and joined the executive board in 1998 where he remained until Dec 2017.

Securities champion: Robert Welch

Tesco Plc (group company secretary)

Robert Welch was appointed as group company secretary of Tesco Plc in August 2016.

Robert has worked as a company secretary for over 25 years during which time he has held the positions of group company secretary at FirstGroup plc and Company Secretary at Kazakhmys PLC.CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio -- In clearing the air over recent comments made to the Charter Review Commission, City Council has "agreed to disagree" on a number of issues.

For starters, there were the May 15 statements from Councilman Kahlil Seren to the CRC.

There, Seren had surmised that, if a recommendation went to council to amend the charter to a "strong mayor" form of government, his colleagues already had a four-vote majority to block it from ever getting to the county Board of Elections.

The four council members then penned a joint letter to CRC facilitator Larry Keller denouncing Seren's comments.

They also assured the 15-member commission that their ongoing efforts -- at least two three-hour meetings a month -- were appreciated and that their recommendations would receive full consideration.

After the letter was read into the record at a council meeting, Seren requested the clearing-the-air discussion at the May 29 Committee-of-the-Whole meeting, where he said that he had been misquoted in the joint letter.

"I never said that council wouldn't consider any of the recommendations" from the CRC, Seren told his colleagues, arguing that he was misquoted in the letter by Mayor Carol Roe, Vice Mayor Melissa Yasinow and council members Mary Dunbar and Michael Ungar.

Saying that he would continue to stand by what he said, Seren added that it was "ridiculous" for his colleagues to expect an apology, because a shift on council away from the current "city manager" form of government does not seem plausible based on past statements.

"They were asking me what I thought," Seren said of the CRC. "If I am asked where I think somebody stands on an issue, I will give my impression as honestly as I can."

Calling his statement an "affront" to the CRC, council and residents, Ungar said it amounted to an "unprovoked and undeserved attack" by Seren on his colleagues, as well as a misrepresentation to the CRC that their work was "all a charade."

Yasinow's main criticism focused on Seren spouting off to the CRC without conferring with his fellow council members beforehand.

"You presumed without talking to anyone how we would vote on a hypothetical issue," Yasinow said. "I find these statements deeply offensive, reckless and uneducated -- including the fact that now you say you're going to 'stand by them.'"

Seren countered that Ungar "never apologized for mischaracterizing my intentions" with legislation that attempted to protect undocumented immigrants, limiting local police interaction with federal agencies seeking to deport them.

"You stated that I was attacking our police forces and criminalizing their behavior," Seren said of Ungar's assessment of his original legislation, explaining that he wanted to address the perceived "xenophobia" currently exhibited by the federal government.

"This isn't about your immigration legislation -- which speaks for itself," Ungar told Seren.

Ungar referenced Seren's original citations to the Ohio criminal code that would have made it a misdemeanor for local police officers to interact unduly with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

"That's been my opposition from day one," Ungar said. "But I bear no ill will from that. I hope we can continue to work together and put it all in the rear-view mirror."

While it's been 35 years since the last CRC was convened, Seren also questioned this council's motivation for doing so in an "off-cycle" year, citing a series of emails among the four council members in 2017 that got the wheels in motion for a charter review.

There was mention in those emails of "silencing the noise" from a group of residents who were mobilizing for a petition-driven ballot initiative asking voters to consider a switch in form of government to a strong mayor.

Another early citizen objective involved switching to at least partial ward representation on council, as opposed to the longstanding at-large configuration.

Also as a possible reason for keeping the charter review in-house and under closer oversight, Seren pointed to other emails indicating that there were council members who "didn't want a certain person to get the mayoral seat."

That would be former mayor and current Councilwoman Cheryl Stephens, who will be appearing on the November ballot after winning the Democratic Primary last month for Cuyahoga County Council.

Stephens did not fill out a CRC survey, so no interview was ever scheduled before the commission. But as the longest-serving member of council, she defended Seren's right to Constitutionally protected free speech under the First Amendment.

"Sometimes people say things that offend others, things we don't necessarily agree with," Stephens noted. "But we have to accept their right to do so. And we move forward."

Roe agreed that it was time to move on, saying, "now that we've all spilled our guts, can we look for other ways to collaborate? Because we have to set aside our differences to move forward."

And while the four council members may have stated their positions earlier about form of government, that doesn't preclude them from listening to further discussion and further evidence -- as Roe said she has.

"Frankly, I'm beginning to believe that we should consider electing a mayor," Roe said.

She added that she was not necessarily talking about a "strong" mayor, just one who would be popularly elected rather than appointed by fellow council members.

Dunbar noted that in her six-plus years on council, former Mayor Dennis Wilcox was opposed to instituting a charter review during his term, as he made clear in his interview before the CRC earlier this year.

And while a city manager-council form of government is rare in Cuyahoga County, Dunbar said Cleveland Heights' Charter compares favorably with like-sized communities around the country and remains relatively cost effective.

"We're getting a lot of things done -- I'm just going to wait for the (CRC) recommendations and see what happens," Dunbar said.

She added that in terms of putting those proposals out to the voters, "it's all within the realm of possibility."

In the meantime, Seren believes the CRC is getting bogged down on the "strong mayor" versus "city manager" deliberations when there are other issues to be addressed.

"It's sucking all of the air out of the room," Seren said of the ongoing debate.

And for the future record, City Manager Tanisha Briley noted that microphones will soon be installed in the ceiling of the executive conference room as part of an $18,000 sound system allowing council to record its Committee-of-the-Whole meetings.CLEVELAND, Ohio -- For some, Kim Kardashian West meeting President Trump in The Oval Office was the 7th sign of the Trumpapocalypse. But there's good reason to pardon Trump for meeting with Kardashian. Or to pardon Kardashian for meeting with Trump.

With the help of Jared Kushner, Kardashian visited the president to speak about the legitimate issue of prison sentencing reform, not sex tapes, viral nude instagram photos or buttock implants.

In particular, Kardashian requested Trump grant clemency to Alice Marie Johnson, a 63-year-old great-grandmother serving a federal life sentence without parole, as a first time offender, for a nonviolent drug offense. Johnson has already served more than 21 years.

Kardashian became involved in Johnson's case after she watched a viral video about it on the web site Mic. In addition to lobbying Kushner, Kardashian has been footing Johnson's legal fees for her appeal.

So far, President Trump hasn't granted Kardashian's request, but may still do so. Instead, Trump pardoned far-right pundit,author, filmmaker Dinesh D'Souza and has hinted of possible pardons for former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich and Martha Stewart. Both were contestants on "The Apprentice."

Ted Cruz had lobbied for D'Souza's pardon after he plead guilty to violating campaign finance laws in 2014.

In announcing the pardon, Trump said D'Souza "was treated very unfairly by our government!"

D'Souza reacted by tweeting, "Obama & his stooge tried to extinguish my American dream & destroy my faith in America. Thank you @realDonaldTrump for fully restoring both."

Like Trump, D'Souza is a birther and given to posting racist tweets about Obama. If not for that, D'Souza's own ethnic background and immigrant status would normally have Trump looking to deport him instead of pardoning him.

Blagojevich was convicted after being caught on tape talking about trying to sell Obama's open Illinois U.S. Senate seat after he won the presidency.

Trump said Blagojevich's 18-year sentence for saying something "stupid" was "really unfair" and that "plenty of other politicians have said a lot worse."

Trump's comments on Blagojevich's echo Jimmy Dimora's defense and plea for clemency -- that basically he didn't do anything other politicians weren't doing and many did worse.

Since Dimora was convicted in 2012 on public corruption charges, the former Cuyahoga County Commissioner and Democratic Party Chairman, has been seeking clemency or a reduction in his 28 year sentence.

Dimora deserved to be convicted and do time in jail, but I'm among those who believe he was over-sentenced. It seems he was given what amounts to a life-sentence, not for his offenses, but more as retribution for not cooperating with the feds and giving them a hard way to go in prosecuting him.

The take on Trump's pardon's is that they are intended to send a message to Michael Cohen and other subjects of the Mueller investigations to not cooperate and they'll be rewarded with a pardon. I don't know if that's true or how effective it will be.

Michael Flynn and deputy campaign manager Rick Gates long ago did plea deals and have already been cooperating with Mueller.

Cohen has yet to be indicted. And if, as expected, he is indicted, it might not be in a jurisdiction where Trump can pardon him.

But if Trump really wanted to send Cohen a message, giving clemency to Dimora would be an ideal way to do it. Trump, Cohen and Dimora all speak the same language.

If Dimora, Frank Russo and Alice Marie Johnson were all birthers who posted nasty tweets about Obama, it would dramatically increase their chances of being granted clemency.

Prepare to see Kim Kardashian West in the White House more if Trump replaces Pence on the ticket with supporter Kanya West in 2020, as 2016 proved anything can happen.(1:12 p.m.) The girl was found and is in good health.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Police are searching for a 12-year-old girl who went missing from her home Sunday morning.

The girl, who goes by Christina Hines and Christina Pettit, left her St. Clair Avenue home about 7 a.m. to go to Wendy's, her mother told police.

The girl has autism, is functional and is also reportedly diagnosed with ADHD, police said.

She is 4-foot, 11-inches tall, weighs 94 pounds and was last seen wearing a navy blue shirt with buttons and khaki pants with a hole in them, police said.

A witness, who reportedly suffers from schizophrenia, said she saw the girl enter a black four-door Cadillac with a plate of HKG7807 in the parking lot of a restaurant at East 185th Street and Nottinham Road about 7:30 a.m., police said.

Anyone with information on the girl's whereabouts is asked to call 216-621-1234 or if seen, call 911.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Sunday's crime and courts comments section.Guest Columnist Tamara Thomas, 17, of Cleveland, was recently named 2018 Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year for the state of Ohio. She recently graduated from Washington Park Environmental Studies Academy, where she was a three-year honor student. She completed a legal internship at Case Western Reserve University, where she took law classes, participated in a mock trial and shadowed judges and attorneys. Tamara will attend Xavier University in the fall.

Tamara Thomas, Ohio's Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year. (Photo Courtesy of Dave Brown)

I remember hearing the gunshots at night.

Before leaving the house where we used to live, my mom would tell me to be careful and pay attention to my surroundings, because bullets do not have names on them. It is something that I remember to this day.

So when I was named Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year for the state of Ohio, I decided to use this honor as a platform for exploring why there is so much violence and hate in our community and what teens can do to curb it. In conjunction with the Keystone Club, a leadership group at our Broadway location, I am helping to organize a Stop the Hate Week June 11-15. We are inviting teens in our community to discuss violence in all areas, including gangs, police and schools.

I came up with these topics based on issues I see in our community. There have been so many gang-related shootings in our neighborhood. My dad has always said that while as a community we are always able to unite to fight against racism, what about the horrible things we do to each other?

In addition, police brutality has also been a major problem in our community. I want to give teens the opportunity to share their thoughts about the police -- and to share them directly with people like the chief of police to see if they can effect real change.

Lastly, I chose school violence because of all the incidents in which guns are being brought into classrooms. I want kids to know that what they do now matters. The decisions they make in school do not only affect them, but also others.

When I started at Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland at the age of 12, the club provided a sort of escape from the violence out in the streets. At the club, I was able to escape to the library with Ms. Katelyn, reading books that allowed my mind to travel to different lands and safer environments. But once 6:30 p.m. came, it was time to leave the club and get back to reality -- and the reality was that Cleveland streets were often deadly.

Last year was a hard year for me, because I watched so many people I knew die from violence or drug overdoses. It really woke me up and made me realize that I could not be silent anymore.

What is going on in the streets of Cleveland has to be confronted. Teen voices are often more powerful and more passionate than we realize. I urge you to use your voice to make this a better community.

Have something to say about this topic? Use the comments to share your thoughts, and stay informed when readers reply to your comments by using Notification Settings (in blue) just below.

Readers are invited to submit Opinion page essays on topics of regional or general interest. Send your 500-word essay for consideration to Ann Norman at anorman@cleveland.com. Essays must include a brief bio and headshot of the writer. Essays rebutting today's topics are also welcome.Amanda Woodrum, senior researcher at Policy Matters Ohio. (Photo Courtesy of Policy Matters Ohio)

In 2014, Gov. John Kasich defied many members of his own Republican Party and accepted the Obama administration's offer to expand Medicaid, using mostly federal dollars. He did so to extend medical coverage to the 16 percent of working-age Ohioans whose low-wage jobs don't come with health benefits.

Medicaid expansion cut the number of uninsured Ohioans by half. More than 700,000 Ohioans, including almost 100,000 from the Cleveland area, can now get preventive, mental health and addiction treatment. Costly emergency rooms are no longer their only option.

Today, more Ohioans are healthy, and fewer have to worry about going into debt over medical bills they can't pay. Fewer people have to choose between dinner and the doctor.

Medicaid expansion strengthens our economy. It brings billions of federal dollars to Ohio every year, creating work for nurses, medical technicians and the like. Six of Ohio's 10 most common jobs are low wage, but health jobs have been a bright spot. Registered nurses, the second most common occupation in Greater Cleveland, are the best-paying among the top 10.

Despite great progress, the Kasich Administration recently asked the federal government for permission to add new regulations that will put more than 300,000 Ohioans at risk of losing health care, including more than 50,000 in the Cleveland area. These rules would let Ohio rip away peoples' health care if they don't work or do a county work program for 80 hours a month.

Withholding treatment for chronic health conditions or mental health services will NOT help people get or keep a job.

Many Medicaid expansion patients already work -- in low-wage jobs, for companies such as Wal-Mart and McDonald's, with little control over schedules that vary wildly. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities calculates that irregular schedules could put 46 percent of low-wage workers at risk of losing coverage because of these new requirements.

The risk goes beyond workers. More than one-third of working-age Ohioans enrolled in Medicaid have a disability or chronic condition. Some do work, largely because their treatment enables it, but may not work enough to meet requirements. Many could lose coverage because of difficulty proving that their disability or condition makes them "unfit for work."

Many Medicaid patients face barriers to employment, such as chronic health or mental health conditions and lack of reliable transportation. We need to reduce these barriers, not erect new ones.

Implementing these new hurdles will cost county governments across Ohio an estimated $378 million over five years. That money would be better spent improving public transit so working people have a reliable and affordable way to commute, and providing training for better jobs with benefits.

The Trump Administration has already accepted similar proposals from Kentucky, Indiana, Arkansas, and New Hampshire, and is expected to approve Ohio's, as well. But in November, we'll be electing a new governor.

We need Ohio's next governor to withdraw Ohio's request to enact these new requirements. We should be expanding Medicaid to cover the remaining 500,000 uninsured Ohioans, not cutting people off from it.

Guest Columnist Amanda Woodrum is the senior researcher at Policy Matters Ohio, which creates a more vibrant, equitable, sustainable and inclusive Ohio through research, strategic communications, coalition building and policy advocacy.

Have something to say about this topic? Use the comments to share your thoughts, and stay informed when readers reply to your comments by using Notification Settings (in blue) just below.

Readers are invited to submit Opinion page essays on topics of regional or general interest. Send your 500-word essay for consideration to Ann Norman at anorman@cleveland.com. Essays must include a brief bio and headshot of the writer. Essays rebutting today's topics are also welcome.CLEVELAND, Ohio - Have you been to Iceland recently? What tips do you have for Clevelanders who are headed to the land of fire and ice this summer?

Travel editor Susan Glaser's report on her recent trip publishes Sunday, but we'd also like to hear about your travels. Many Ohioans have put Iceland on their travel to-do lists in recent months, ever since Wow Air and Icelandair announced new, nonstop flights between Cleveland and Reykjavik.

Those flights started in early May - long enough now that some travelers have returned home with stories to tell. What were your favorite spots in Iceland? Are there places that weren't worth the hype? How were the new flights? Did you discover ways to economize on this notoriously pricey island?

Please share your stories with us, and your fellow travelers, by emailing sglaser@plaind.com. Include a photo, if you like. We'll compile a list of favorite and most useful responses in the coming weeks.Hurricane season is back. Could this year's tropical storm total approach last year's record-setting and destructive season?

At least for now, there are reasons to be optimistic: IBM's Weather Company currently predicts a total of 12 named storms, five hurricanes, and two major hurricanes. In 2017, there were 17 named storms, 10 hurricanes and 6 major hurricanes in the Atlantic basin.

In fact, the 2018 cycle's predictions are below what the IBM's Weather Company forecast last month, and below the annual average of 12 storms, 7 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes, compiled since 1950.

"Every year is a brand new cycle," Paul Walsh, a business weather analyst and meteorologist told CNBC's "On The Money" in an interview.

"This year actually the prediction, from a numbers perspective, will be a quieter year than it was last year, in fact a little lower than normal in terms of the overall number of storms," said Walsh, who serves as director of weather strategy at IBM Global Business Services.

Last August, Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas, and carved a path of destruction that ultimately cost $125 billion. That was second only to Hurricane Katrina's $161 billion in damages along the Gulf Coast and New Orleans in August 2005.

Just after Harvey, Hurricane Irma struck Florida in September, causing $50 billion making it the fifth costliest U.S. hurricane on record. Yet Walsh cautioned the U.S. wasn't entirely out of the woods.

"We expect 12 storms this year. If those 12 storms stay out over the water there will be absolutely no impact, but there's nothing that says we won't see half of those in the Gulf and along the East Coast of the U.S.," he added.

"We can accurately predict [the numbers], but the thing that we can't predict is where those storms will go," Walsh said.Delta Air Lines said on Saturday it is investigating the death of a dog that died after it traveled in one of its plane's cargo holds during a cross-country flight.

Alejandro, a Pomeranian, was traveling from Phoenix to Newark via Detroit this week, where he was found dead.

An attorney for the Pomeranian's owner, Evan Oshan, who also represented the family of Kokito the French bulldog that died on the United flight, told NBC 4 New York that the dog's owner is trying to retrieve Alejandro's remains.

"We know pets are an important member of the family and we are focused on the well-being of all animals we transport," Delta in a statement.

"Delta is conducting a thorough review of the situation and have been working directly with Alejandro's family to support them however we can," the airline said. "As part of that review, we want to find out more about why this may have occurred to ensure it doesn't happen again and we have offered to have Alejandro evaluated by a veterinarian to learn more."

Pet transportation on airlines has drawn more scrutiny in recent months, after several deaths of animals that were en route to their destinations died. The increased attention takes place against a backdrop of a surging number of animals traveling in cabins.

United Airlines last month said it would no longer accept animals other than cats and dogs, and banned dozens of dog breeds from its cargo hold. That change followed the death of a French bulldog puppy that died after it was placed in an overhead bin, and two other dogs that the airline flew to the wrong destinations.

U.S. airlines transported 506,994 animals last year, according to the Department of Transportation. Delta carried 57,479 animals in 2017, and said two of them died.

Correction: This story has been updated to show the dog died after it flew in the plane's cargo hold. A previous version said the dog died in the cargo hold.Marc Benioff, the chief executive of Salesforce, drew national attention in 2015 when he said he would move his employees out of Indiana if a new state law that would have legalized discrimination was not changed. (It was.)

But predictions that, for better or worse, tech and politics were henceforth going to be inseparable did not hold up.

Tech got political, fast. Sergey Brin, a Google co-founder born in Russia, told 2,000 employees who were demonstrating against Mr. Trump's actions in January 2017 that "some of us might even adopt Pence 2017 bumper stickers." It was all but a direct endorsement of the new president's impeachment.

What is happening  or rather not happening  in San Francisco is part of a broader urge in the tech community to stay behind the scenes in state and national politics. The overwhelmingly Democratic-leaning Silicon Valley was shocked by the 2016 election of Donald J. Trump and aghast at his anti-immigration ban, which cut to the heart of their existence as a multinational industry whose companies have often been founded by immigrants.

That is quite a contrast to the last open mayoral election, in 2011. Tech leaders were featured in a video for their preferred candidate, Ed Lee, who went on to win and was re-elected in 2015. It has been viewed more than 600,000 times on YouTube. This year, several candidates are vying to replace Mr. Lee, who died in December , but none of them has tried to enlist tech in anything so striking.

But as voters go to the polls Tuesday to choose a mayor in one of San Francisco's most disputed elections in recent memory, the industry that set off a high-rise construction boom and has been blamed for a housing crisis in the city is fading into the background.

Over the last decade, this has become the tech industry's hometown.

Mr. Benioff, a native of San Francisco and the most prominent tech executive in the city, was a financial backer of Mr. Lee. But he said in an interview Friday that the mayoral election was too important, too closely fought and too contentious for him to support any of the top four candidates: Jane Kim, Mark Leno, Angela Alioto or London Breed.

"This is the hottest election San Francisco has ever had for mayor," he said. "I care so deeply, I cannot support one of the candidates. I don't want to disenfranchise my ability to work with whoever is elected."

Sam Altman, the president of the influential start-up accelerator Y Combinator, has not tweeted about politics all year  surprising reticence for someone who flirted with the idea of running for California governor last year.

"I've just been super busy," Mr. Altman wrote in an email, adding that he had "no idea" why others had been so quiet. A spokesman for Reid Hoffman, the LinkedIn co-founder who previously showed an intense interest in politics, waved off an inquiry, saying: "Don't really have anything new to report."

Mr. Brin has no political thoughts to share at present, a Google spokeswoman said. Even Peter Thiel, who backed Mr. Trump when hardly anyone else in Silicon Valley would, appears not to be making any donations at the moment.

Hunter Walk, formerly with Google's YouTube and now a venture capitalist, appeared in the 2011 video supporting Mr. Lee. "That was the beginning  and end  of my viral video career," he said. Others in the video were Marissa Mayer, then chief executive of Yahoo, and Biz Stone, a co-founder of Twitter.

Mr. Walk said he was supporting Ms. Breed, the mayoral candidate who seems to have the most backing from tech. Mr. Stone said he was "usually not public about politics" but had been helping Ms. Breed "with social media strategy and expertise," introducing her to knowledgeable people. Ms. Mayer, who could not be reached for comment, gave $500, the legal maximum, to Ms. Breed.

If tech is determined to be low key about San Francisco politics, there is an eminently practical reason: fears of a backlash.

Ron Conway, a venture capitalist, was widely regarded  and sometimes condemned  as the power behind the throne for Mr. Lee, whose reign was very good for tech. Attempts to hold Uber and Airbnb responsible for skirting regulations largely failed. Twitter got a major tax break to stay in the city.

Mr. Conway championed Ms. Breed, a president of the board of supervisors who became interim mayor after Mr. Lee's death, as the next mayor. At Mr. Lee's funeral, he told Mr. Benioff, "We have to focus on getting London elected." (Mr. Conway disputed that, writing, "At most, I acknowledged the historic significance of an African-American woman succeeding the city's first Chinese-American mayor.")

The venture capitalist moved too aggressively, however. The progressive wing of the board of supervisors removed Ms. Breed from the interim position after a few weeks, saying they did not want her to have an undue advantage in the election.

One of the supervisors, Hillary Ronen, said in a direct attack on Mr. Conway that there were "white, rich men  billionaires  in this city"who "steered the policies" of the two previous mayoral administrations. "They got us into this absolute mess we are in today where poor people and people of color cannot afford to live in this city," she said.

Mr. Benioff called Mr. Conway "the Koch brothers of San Francisco," a reference to the siblings who are heavy backers of conservative causes. He added: "That is his prerogative as a citizen of the United States. He feels he's doing the right thing. He's a good person. But he doesn't speak for me or tech."

Mr. Conway now says he has more important places to spend his time and resources than the mayor's race.

"The future of our country and our progressive values are threatened by this president and this Congress, and candidly stopping them is ultimately far more important to me than who is elected Mayor of San Francisco on June 5th," he wrote in an email.

Mr. Conway emphasized that he is still backing Ms. Breed, citing his belief that "she's the only candidate who will truly tackle our city's housing and homeless crises."At least the really bad bugs, introduced by security patches earlier this month, have been fixed. The problems that remain reside in the dregs  not likely to bite, but worth knowing about in case something suddenly goes bump in the night.

And if youre using Win10 1803, you should definitely ask Microsoft for an increase in combat-duty pay.

The ongoing Win7/Server 2008 R2 patching threat

Remember when Win7 was relatively stable? OK, OK; stable is a relative term thats unlikely to apply to any version of Windows, but you know what I mean. Win7 and Server 2008 R2 have gone through months of problems with networking in general, and apoplectic network interface cards in particular.

This months problem (which is different from the previous two months bugs) involves a bad .inf file. If you get bit, you dont see one of those completely inscrutable error messages (CredSSP encryption oracle remediation anyone?). Instead, your network card just dies. Kerplop.

Microsoft says its a problem in the May Win7 Monthly Rollup doc, KB 4103718:

Symptom: There is an issue with Windows and a third-party software that is related to a missing file (oem<number>.inf). Because of this issue, after you apply this update, the network interface controller will stop working. Workaround:

1. To locate the network device, launch devmgmt.msc; it may appear under Other Devices .

2. To automatically rediscover the NIC and install drivers, select Scan for Hardware Changes from the Action menu.

a. Alternatively, install the drivers for the network device by right-clicking the device and choosing Update . Then choose Search automatically for updated driver software or Browse my computer for driver software .

Which must rank as one of the most convoluted instructions Microsoft has ever published. At least, one of the most convoluted instructions this month. Note that Microsoft tells us theres an issue with third-party software, but doesnt deign to tell us which third-party software.

If, after installing this months Win7/Server 2008 R2 Monthly Rollup KB 4103718 (or possibly the Security-only patch KB 4103712), your network interface card stops working, you can use Microsofts steps to get going again. Once youre back online, take Susan Bradleys advice:

visit the vendor of your computer or the vendor of your network card and update both your bios and network drivers from the vendors web site.

Windows 10 version 1803 still aint ready for prime time

If youre stuck in Win10 April 2018 Update  the notoriously buggy version 1803  you need to get the latest cumulative update applied, KB 4100403. But before you do that, think. If you upgraded to 1803 fewer than 10 days ago, its still easy to roll back to your previous version: Start > Settings > Update & security, on the left choose Recovery. Under Go back to the previous version of Windows, click Get started. Click through Microsofts warnings again (and again and again) and finally click Buzz Off, I want my old Windows back. Or the functional equivalent. Once youve rolled back, be sure you take the necessary precautions to keep Microsoft from forcing you back to 1803 again.

Speaking of forced upgrades, Microsoft is actively looking for folks who were upgraded to 1803 even though they had Win10 1709 set to defer updates. Those of you with the temerity to click Check for updates  you seekers  need not apply.

By the way  those of you who are convinced that 1803 now runs on half of all Win10 PCs need a lesson in lies, damn lies and statistics. Ed Bott over on ZDNet has a great takedown of the AdDuplex numbers that fueled the clearly ridiculous assertion. 1803 hasnt taken over the Win10 universe. At least, not yet.

Win10 versions 1703, 1709 ready to roll

The bugs introduced earlier in the month are fixed. I think.

My production machines are still on 1703, but when I get a spare couple of hours, Ill probably move to 1709. (Yes, I downloaded and saved a copy of the Win10 1709 ISO file back while it was available. If you need one, check out Ed Tittel and Kari Paajolahtis article in Computerworld.)

I think its quite remarkable that Windows 8.1 continues to stand out as the most stable version of Windows available.

Office

Susan Bradleys Master Patchlist shows were basically ready to roll, although the official Fixes or workarounds articles for Office include many specific problems and a few possible solutions.

Windows 7/Server 2008 R2

Ready to take a chance on messing up your NIC? Heres how to proceed. The patching pattern should be familiar to many of you.

Step 1. Make a full system image backup before you install the May patches.

Theres a non-zero chance that the patches  even the latest, greatest patches of patches of patches  will hose your machine. Best to have a backup that you can reinstall even if your machine refuses to boot. This, in addition to the usual need for System Restore points.

There are plenty of full-image backup products, including at least two good free ones: Macrium Reflect Free and EaseUS Todo Backup.

Step 2. For Win7 and 8.1

Microsoft is blocking updates to Windows 7 and 8.1 on recent computers. If you are running Windows 7 or 8.1 on a PC thats a year old or less, follow the instructions in AKB 2000006 or @MrBrians summary of @radosuafs method to make sure you can use Windows Update to get updates applied.

If youre very concerned about Microsofts snooping on you and want to install just security patches, realize that the privacy paths getting more difficult. The old Group B  security patches only  isnt dead, but its no longer within the grasp of typical Windows customers. If you insist on manually installing security patches only, follow the instructions in @PKCanos AKB 2000003 and be aware of @MrBrians recommendations for hiding any unwanted patches.

For most Windows 7 and 8.1 users, I recommend following AKB 2000004: How to apply the Win7 and 8.1 Monthly Rollups. Realize that some or all of the expected patches for April may not show up or, if they do show up, may not be checked. DON'T CHECK any unchecked patches. Unless you're very sure of yourself, DON'T GO LOOKING for additional patches. That way thar be tygers. If you're going to install the May patches, accept your lot in life, and don't mess with Mother Microsoft.

If you want to minimize Microsofts snooping but still install all of the offered patches, turn off the Customer Experience Improvement Program (Step 1 of AKB 2000007: Turning off the worst Windows 7 and 8.1 snooping) before you install any patches. (Thx, @MrBrian.) If you see KB 2952664 (for Win7) or its Win8.1 cohort, KB 2976978  the patches that so helpfully make it easier to upgrade to Win10  uncheck them and spread your machine with garlic. Watch out for driver updates  youre far better off getting them from a manufacturers website.

After youve installed the latest Monthly Rollup, if youre intent on minimizing Microsofts snooping, run through the steps in AKB 2000007: Turning off the worst Win7 and 8.1 snooping. Realize that we dont know what information Microsoft collects on Window 7 and 8.1 machines. But Im starting to believe that information pushed to Microsofts servers for Win7 owners is nearing equal to that pushed in Win10.

Step 3. For Windows 10

If youre running Win10 Creators Update, version 1703 (my current preference), or version 1709, the Fall Creators Update, and you want to stay on 1703 or 1709 and not get sucked into the 1803 pre-release vortex, follow the instructions here to ward off the upgrade. Of course, all bets are off if Microsoft, uh, forgets to honor its own settings.

Remember: If you want to avoid 1803, dont click Check for Updates until youve gone through all the precautions listed in this article, including running wushowhide. If you forget, you may be tossed in the seeker heap and shuffled off to 1803 land.

If youre running an earlier version of Win10, youre basically on your own. Microsoft doesn't support you anymore.

If you have trouble getting the latest cumulative update installed, make sure youve checked your antivirus settings and, if all is well, run the newly refurbished Windows Update Troubleshooter before inventing new epithets.

To get Windows 10 patched, go through the steps in "8 steps to install Windows 10 patches like a pro."

Thanks to the dozens of volunteers on AskWoody who contribute mightily, especially @sb, @PKCano and @MrBrian.

Weve moved to MS-DEFCON 3 on the AskWoody Lounge.Blue on Blue 1) May and Davis at odds over Brexit. He wants action now, she stalls for delay.

When David Davis met Theresa May on Wednesday it might have been a metaphor for the state of the entire Brexit process. The Brexit secretary told the prime minister that he wanted to publish the governments white paper, spelling out its vision for a final deal with Brussels, by June 14. We can do this, Davis said. Mays response, according to a source briefed on the exchange, was: How about after the June council? That is the next Brussels summit on June 28, when Britain is expected to unveil its most detailed Brexit plan yet.

Other story highlights:

May no longer thinks no deal is better than a bad deal (if she ever did).

Davis will never agree to customs partnership plan, has had heated exchanges with Fox.

June 14 expected to be crunch day for EU Withdrawal Bill votes.

Commons Remainers mulling new tactics.

Labour mulling Norway-like deal but with opt-outs.

Will the June summit be a car-crash?

 Tim Shipman, Sunday Times

Blue on Blue 2) Patel says the Conservatives are spurning the Thatcher heritage, and lays into May and Hammond over Brexit

Meritocracy, political and economic freedom, those should be the DNA of the Conservative party. Quite frankly, I dont see much of that going on right now. The Essex MP said debt was still far too high, adding: Debt is 85% of GDP  I think thats embarrassing as Conservatives in government that it is at that level. Why are we saddling a new generation, a younger generation with debt? That is not a Conservative thing to do.Asked whether it was problematic that the two most senior members of the Government  Theresa May and Philip Hammond  were Remain voters and cant bring themselves to say its a good idea, Ms Patel said: I have to say, originally I thought it wasnt. But I think its fair to say that theres something in that. There is absolutely something in that.  Sunday Telegraph

Shes right  Sunday Telegraph Editorial

> Yesterday: Matt Smith on Comment  Tories must re-engage in the battle of ideas on campus

Blue on Blue 3). Government Minister attacks real horrible hard Brexit. Green attacks Rees-Mogg. Morgan attacks ERG. Rees-Mogg attacks Remainers.

Liam Fox: Brexit will power Britains prosperity and its already working with 600,000 new jobs

Remainer Mr Harrington said his ministerial portfolio, which includes the auto and aerospace industries, had convinced him of the need for the UK to secure a very sensible Brexit. He told The Mail on Sunday: I am against a real horrible hard Brexit. My portfolio shows it would be madness to have a hard Brexit and thats my viewTaking aim at Mr Rees-Mogg, [Green] writes: One very damaging and misguided line of argument is that Britain is all-powerful in these negotiations, so the mere threat of our walking away will bring the Europeans promptly to heel I am afraid that even my friend, the intelligent and energetic Jacob Rees-Mogg occasionally lapses in this way.  Mail on Sunday

The EUs attack on the City of London is self-destructive  Dominic Lawson, Sunday Times

Remainers still dont get it  Tony Parsons, Sun on Sunday

International Trade Secretary urges calm to avoid a full-scale trade war  Sunday Times

Last year we landed more inward investment projects than ever before, a vote of confidence from the international financial community. We were told we would face an employment crisis. What happened? Employment is up by 600,000 since before the referendum to 32.34million, with record numbers in work. Our manufacturing order books are at their highest for years and our exports have risen by about ten per cent in the past year. Remember how jobs would flood out of the City of London to Paris and Frankfurt? What happened? Last year saw more venture capital on tech, including financial technology, coming to London than all of Germany, France, Spain and Ireland combined.  Sun on Sunday

> Today: ToryDiary  Our survey. Almost two-thirds of Tory members dont have confidence in the Governments handling of Brexit.

Javid poised to announce updated counter-terror strategy

Security forces have foiled 12 plots in the last year  plus a further four from the growing menace of right-wing extremism. And they believe the danger could increase even further in the coming months.

The alert was raised as the Government prepares to unveil a strengthened counter-terrorism strategy this week. Home Secretary Sajid Javid has reviewed powers after five attacks last year and will tomorrow announce a range of steps to stop further atrocities. Security agencies are also confronting a rising risk from extreme right-wing violence as the potential sources of attacks becomes more diverse.  Sun on Sunday

Hinds to schools: Stop using expensive teacher recruitment agencies

Teacher recruitment agencies face fees crackdown  BBC

Tenth of school staff suffer in epidemic of abuse by pupils  Observer

Schools with 20 per cent or more pupils from poor backgrounds see lower attainment for all children  Sunday Telegraph

Johnson to be given licence to rebel over Heathrow

Announcing the new supplier scheme, Mr Hinds said: Great schools are made by great teachers, so I want to reduce teacher workload to make it a more fulfilling profession and help schools bear down on costs so they can invest more on their frontline. Every pound thats spent on excessive agency fees, or on advertising jobs, is a pound that I want to help schools spend on what really matters: making sure every child, whatever their background, is inspired to learn and to reach their potential. We have the most talented generation of teachers yet, and there are record numbers working in our schools. These measures will help us to build on this, making it easier for headteachers to recruit the staff they need and ensuring teaching continues to be an attractive, rewarding profession.  Sunday Telegraph

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling is expected this week to set out the noise, air quality and cost requirements of the project, before paving the way for a Commons vote by the end of June. A two-mile runway is planned northwest of the existing airport, allowing an additional 260,000 flights a year by late 2025. The Foreign Secretary  who once said he was prepared to lie down in front of bulldozers to stop the airports expansion  has not changed his view that a third runway would be a disaster and barbarically contemptuous of the rights of the population by putting their health at risk.  Mail on Sunday

Grayling will warn: Heathrow or bust  Sun on Sunday

Conservative Mayoral speculation: Greening, Bailey, Kamall, Ranger named  Sunday Times

Davidson or Javid: next Tory leader?  Adam Boulton, Sunday Times

Is the DUP ready to vote for Tory-friendly English boundary changes?

Cross-party group plans Northern Ireland Commons vote (but Wollaston is the only Conservative named)  Observer

But SNP and Tories would block any move  Sunday Telegraph

Abortion treats one minority as less than human: whos next?  Peter Hitchens, Mail on Sunday

McDonnell anti-semitism kerfuffle

The Democratic Unionist Party, whose 10 MPs hold the parliamentary balance of power, signalled that it was reversing its opposition to constituency boundary changes that would, if in place last year, have delivered Theresa May a small majority. The changes, stalled since 2013, would reduce the number of MPs from 650 to 600 and ensure all seats, except a handful of islands, would contain between 71,000 and 78,000 voters. That would help the Tories, because Labour seats tend to be smaller, meaning more would be merged as the number of MPs was reduced.  Sunday Times

The shadow chancellor is president of the Labour Representation Committee (LRC), which has posted a statement on its website declaring that Ken Livingstone, the former London Mayor, was the victim of a witch hunt and that the controversial comments over which he resigned, were not remotely antisemitic. In May Mr McDonnell pledged to call out hard-left websites propagating anti-Semitism. The Telegraphs disclosures prompted calls by Labour MPs for him to resign from the group.  Sunday Telegraph

Tories-Muslims latest  Observer

Corbyn told Lush Boss they are both on police lists: Im sure you are and Im sure I am too.  Sun on Sunday

The League and Five Star: will their government last?

News in Brief

The League is totally different from M5S, said Giulio Sapelli, an economics professor who taught Salvini at the University of Milan. You never know what they [M5S] are thinking or going to do. For example, this calling for Mattarella to be impeached was crazy. Sapelli, a eurosceptic who was among those mooted as a potential premier for the coalition, also pointed to the Leagues history in government and experience in administering two of Italys richest regions  Lombardy and Veneto. Meanwhile, haphazard management has seen M5S lose support in the two biggest cities it runs, Rome and Turin. Its very hard to know how long [this government] will last, added Sapelli. The League is the only classic rank and file party left; M5S is a movement with a weird leadership.  ObserverPatrick Spencer is the Head of Work and Welfare at the Centre for Social Justice. Gerard Lyons is chair of the CSJ Future of Work project.

By anyones measure, the British jobs market is thriving. More people are in work today than at any point on record, there are fewer people stuck in low paid jobs and the average household is finally seeing some decent wage growth.

The foundations of this success are numerous  a flexible labour market, balanced regulation, a reformed welfare system, and a strong private sector. The importance of work should not be lost on us either. Time and again, evidence shows that a job offers someone a stable source of income, a sense of purpose and dignity, and is linked to better mental and physical health outcomes. Work is the best means of lifting someone out of poverty.

However, while trend lines point in the right direction, the future of work is peppered with potential pitfalls. A report to be published by the Centre for Social Justice tomorrow outlines four of these major traps, that could jeopardise Britains jobs miracle, particularly for those on the margins of work.

First, the countrys industrial landscape remains hugely imbalanced. Economic growth, jobs and prosperity are predominantly generated in our cities. This is case across most developed Western economies but, unlike other countries, a single city, London, remains the major engine in our economy. It contributes approximately a quarter of UK economic output. The next most significant city is Manchester, which contributes around five per cent. Londons productivity is twice that of the UK average, and its economy grew twice as fast as the national rate in 2016. What is most concerning is that job forecasts show that most high value service sector jobs (in the tech sector, professional services or finance) are going to be located in and around London. The UK economy will be hampered if it remains so dependent on a single major commercial hub.

Second, technology is cause for concern. This is, of course, not new. Fatalism regarding automation has existed since the Luddites rebelled against the introduction of the spinning jenny. So far, fears of mass unemployment have been misplaced, but the likely reality is that, as technology displaces old jobs, the new jobs it creates may not be available for those who need them. Its hard to expect someone working for a good wage as a machine operator in a factory willingly take up a job on minimum wage in a call centre. The biggest error in Britains post-industrial era was not making sufficient plans to help people who lost their jobs in the coal and steel industries to find new opportunities. Obviously, this will require a national effort to develop a mid-career retraining plan. But how will that work in reality? Should it be managed at a local level, or through employers, and how will it be paid for?

Third, this means that the skills agenda will be a major component in any planning for the future of work. The jobs of the future are likely to demand new and different skills. Research conducted by the World Economic Forum, the EU Commission and others suggests that employers will increasingly demand intangible competencies such as communication, management, critical thinking and leadership skills. Where, in the past, jobs were functional, and one was often siloed within an organisation, we will be expected in the future to work on projects as part of wider, diverse teamd that cross geographical and technical boundaries. People will undoubtedly be expected to have more advanced technical and digital skills, working with data and software to a much higher standard. The UK education system must reflect these changing needs, otherwise young people will find themselves increasingly uncompetitive in a globalised economy.

Finally, we need to prepare for changes in our society that will have a large impact in the jobs market. We are living longer, meaning th`t many of us are likely to work into our late 60s or even 70s. The millennial generation might be the first to have a working life that lasts half a century. Combine an ageing workforce with population growth which predicts that Britain will surpass Germany as the most populous country in the present EU by 2030, and policy makers will need to prepare for a future where much more will be expected of public services.

But we should be optimistic. The British economys successes have been due to a natural work ethic, innovation and a thriving business sector. All of these things will continue, mitigating the future risks we outlined above, but only if we get the policies right today.This site is not available in your countryWe are analyzing the site. Please wait a few seconds..100%

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This CoolSocial report was updated on 2019-09-30, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.The decline of Bridgeport manufacturing might be the best thing that ever happened to the local car restoration business.

While the city looks to repurpose the buildings that drew in decades of business for the city, members of the restoration industry are preserving more than the history of their clients cars.

It was the Mecca of machining and obtaining hard-to find parts, and if you couldnt find it, you could have had it made in Bridgeport just because there were so many tools and larger machines capable of creating automobile parts like the Bridgeport lathes, said Colton Amster of Redline Restorations in Black Rock.

For the last 15 years, Amster and his team have worked on vintage automobiles for clients from all over the world.

From mechanical and interior restoration to fabricating parts that are no longer in production, Redline along with a series of other business have carved out a piece of a growing niche market in the city.

Spaces made for machines

Bridgeports history of manufacturing has left behind a stock of old warehouse and factory buildings that, with some work, serve today as prime locations for businesses owners looking for space to store and work with their clients vintage cars.

At one time, Bridgeport was the best of the best for manufacturing and machining, so I think it falls along with it, said Matt Carfo, vice president of Black Horse Automotive Services. Because Bridgeport did so much manufacturing, there are some huge buildings in Bridgeport that are empty,

Black Horse has been at its East End facility at 726 Union Ave for more than 20 years; the former machine shop had been vacant for years before the company bought and revamped it.

With 60,000 square feet of former warehouse and factory space, the space suits the companys needs well.

That gives us enough room to do what we have to do and the buildings are purposefully built for doing what we need to, he said. One important thing is we need to have level floors, and since our building was used as a machine shop the floors are as level as you can get, so that gives us the ability to be more exact with doing alignments.

The business focuses on maintaining its clients cars and offers restoration, preservation, sales and storage. A number of clients have been with the business since it was founded.

Bang for your buck

Along with spaces that align with the needs of the market, many car restorers have put down roots in Bridgeport because it is cost effective.

Auto restoration providers offer an array of services to their clients from brokering sales to storage and restoration of antique rides valued up to a several million dollars. That all requires plenty of space and, depending on where youre located, that doesnt come cheap.

Amster left Stamford and was drawn to the Bridgeport in the early 2000s in search of a facility where he could get the most for his money.

My rent was going from between $1,500 and $2,000 a month to almost $4,500 a month overnight, he said. For a small business, a big change like that was tough.

Amster brought Redline Restorations to Black Rock, starting in a 20,000-square-foot space on Fairfield Avenue that was a former Studebaker dealership in the 1950s. Although he said negative stigmas of Bridgeport can sometimes make obtaining new clients difficult, that hasnt kept his business from growing.

He recently relocated and expanded the business into a 100,000-square-foot space down the street from his first Bridgeport location. His new space at 2475 Fairfield Ave. is a former Ford dealership.

It didnt take long for his former space to get a new tenant, either. The Classic Car Gallery relocated from Fairfield to Black Rock location.

Vibrant atmosphere

Aside from business operations, the architecture of many of the older buildings provides added appeal to business owners as well as customers.

Newcomer Alan Goodman, owner of Classic Car Gallery, which buys cars from the local market and sells them to clients globally, relocated from Southport to Bridgeport a few months ago. While the rent was cheaper, he said it was a bonus to have the atmosphere that the unique facilities created for his business.

The biggest pull for me was the architecture and the feel and so forth of the buildings, he said. There are all of these great old and industrial buildings that you dont find in a town like Southport. We could never have replicated what we found here in Southport.Like most businesses, the septic service industry has undergone dramatic changes over the last 50 years.

Richard and Carole Chiarella have seen it all, having been involved with Danbury Septic Tank Service since 1968. The trucks used to be emptied by dumping it into the lagoon on Plumtrees Road. Now the trucks are emptied at the wastewater treatment plant and the contents are filtered and treated with chemicals to kill all impurities.

You can drink it after its processed these days. But Im not drinking it, thats for sure, Richard Chiarella, 72, said in his candid, yet sarcastically humorous manner. I cant believe its been 50 years.

A large banner at the companys facility on Mill Plain Road broadcasts the milestone.

Richard Chiarella started the company with Caroles brother, Phil Mazzucco, after working for M and M Septic, which was founded by in 1950 by Caroles father. Her grandfather started D and S Septic in Norwalk in the early 1900s. That makes four generations of livelihood in the septic business for the family as Carole and Richards sons, Richard and Philip, work for the family business.

It was a lot of hard work and a lot of hours, Carole Chiarella said. Weve had a lot of good customers and made a lot of friends.

Carole, whose nickname is Muzzy, continues to do the books, make appointments and answer the phone for the company. Aging knees  both of which have been replaced  have slowed, but not stopped Richard as he still works a few hours a day.

Yeah, what the hell, why not? he said when asked if he planned to continue working. Its hard for me to just stop. After all the sweat and pain and toil I went through to get it going, I cant just stop. I just cant dig or drag hoses anymore.

Their sons Richard and Philip handle the driving and pumping these days. Richard also has a septic install and repair business, Hard Rock Contractors, which he founded in 2008. Philip owns PJs PortaJohn and Septic Service.

Dont get me started, Richard II joked when asked about working in the family business. Its all I know, but Ive also expanded the business to include repairs and installations.

Richard II remembers helping out with the trucks when he was 6 or 7 years old. He has an 8-year-old son, who potentially represents the fifth generation in the business.

I want him to go to college and make his own choice, Richard II said. It will be up to him to make that decision, but the business will be here for him.

Rocky start

It was an inauspicious beginning for Danbury Septic Tank Service as Richard Chiarella almost watched his efforts to start a business go up in flames. In 1970, the companys first truck caught on fire along Route 7 in Redding, rendering the truck useless.

The expenses piled on as the Chiarellas had a baby at home and had to replace the truck.

It was a nightmare. What a way to start the business. We just went on from there, he said. We bought a small truck to get us through.

Richard Chiarella remembers like it was yesterday another financial detail of the truck fire. It was a cool day and he had a flannel shirt on. At some point during the day he put $60 into the shirts pocket and fastened the button. Before the fire, he had taken off the shirt and put it in the trucks cab.

I was going to go get it (the shirt), but I thought: My life is worth more than $60, he said. Back then, that was a lot of money.

Growing a company

It takes two large frames to hold the 4x6 photos of each of the trucks that have served Danbury Septic over the past five decades. The frames hang in the companys home office and serve as a reminder of the growth and history of the company. Many of the photos show the Chiarella sons near the truck, further illustrating the passage of time.

While the industry has changed dramatically, the trucks themselves look surprisingly similar from the 1960s to today.

A septic truck is a septic truck, Richard said. Maybe the color or style changes.

The trucks have remained busy over the years as the Chiarellas say business has improved each year. The growth of Danbury and surrounding towns have kept service providers busy, Richard Chiarella said. Even the increased number of homes using public sewer systems have not cut into business.

For every house built that goes on sewer, there are four or five on septic, he said.

Chiarella has been in the business for so long that his septic cleaning license number from the state of Connecticut is 000003, meaning he was the third one to be licensed. He said increased licenses, taxes, insurance requirements and regulations are another major change the industry has seen in the last 50 years. He credits his wife with keeping the books organized.

The paperwork is phenomenal here, Carole Chiarella said. It gets tougher all the time.

Richard Chiarella said a turning point in the company came in 1997 when Danbury Septic Tank Service took over the business of R.J. Gallagher. The Chiarellas also purchased the property on Mill Plain Road from Gallagher.

Like many small-business owners, Richard Chiarella said the company has served the family well and created a lifetime of memories.

Im not a multimillionaire, but its paid the bills, he said. All in all, its been good.

Danbury Septic Tank Service may be reached at 203-746-3900.

The writer may be reached at cbosak@hearstmediact.com; 203-731-3338After Rob Morrison left work on a Tuesday evening in December 2016, he headed to his New York City apartment to read and sign hundreds of bankruptcy documents.

Morrison had been elevated to CEO of Gracious Home, a longtime New York City retailer, just weeks before.

The chairman could have stepped in, but he was just a money guy, not a retailer, Morrison said. So we didnt even discuss it. He just said congratulations.

The company was in trouble. It had already filed for bankruptcy once in 2010. Like many retailers, Gracious Home did not adapt quickly to a landscape altered by online shopping. In October 2016, the bank foreclosed on Gracious Homes loan, meaning it owned all of the retailers inventory.

Morrison tells his story of navigating bankruptcy court and charting a new course for an established retail brand on Hearst Connecticut Medias new business podcast, Rally. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.

On Sunday, Rally is releasing its first two full episodes. They include Morrisons story as well as that of the entrepreneurs behind Ample Hills Creamery, which Oprah Winfrey has named her favorite ice cream.

Husband-and-wife team Jackie Cuscuna and Brian Smith opened their first ice cream parlor in Brooklyn in 2011. They had a plan for what they would do if no one came and they had to close the store. But they never considered how they would handle the crowds of customers if they became popular immediately  which they did.

Four days after opening, the couple had to close because they had run out of ice cream.

Find out what happened next by listening to Rally. Every week for the next month, you will find a new episode of Rally available via Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and SoundCloud. You can subscribe on those platforms to have the latest Rally episode delivered to your phone automatically or listen online. Each episode will tell one businesspersons story of things going awry  from filing for bankruptcy to feeling lost after giving up a high-powered legal career  and the lessons learned that eventually led to success.

If you would like to learn more, please reach out by emailing Rally@ctpost.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter at Rally_Podcast.

Contact the writer at mbennett@greenwichtime.

com; Twitter @Macaela_Christian Abraham / Hearst Connecticut Media

BRIDGEPORT  A person was treated at a local hospital early Saturday morning after being stabbed in the side by their roommate, police said.

Shortly after 1 a.m., police were told a stabbing victim showed up at Bridgeport Hospital. The victim had been taken there by a private vehicle, police said.Contributed Photo / Contributed Photo

EASTON  The Easton Board of Selectmen appointed a new member to the board at a special meeting Friday to fill a vacant seat.

Kristi Sogofsky fills the seat recently vacated by Carrie Colangelo, who resigned because of her appointment as a workers compensation commissioner for the state of Connecticut. In that position, Colangelo is unable to hold elected office.Do you feel safe when you fly?

Forget about exploding jet engines, cracked aircraft windows and clear-air turbulence. What about terrorists?

We havent seen a domestic case of terrorists attacking jetliners in years, thanks to increased scrutiny of passengers by the Transportation Security Administration. From the moment you book a flight, you are being screened. If youre on the No Fly List, youd better switch your travel plans to Amtrak or MegaBus. And when you get to the airport, get ready for a full pat-down search.

But the last line of defense for airlines against terrorists is the Federal Air Marshal Service. Created in 1961 after a spate of skyjackings to Cuba, the air marshal program, now administered by the TSA, has grown to 3,000 marshals and an $800 million budget.

But the program is now in trouble.

The Government Accounting Office last year reported that even TSA could not demonstrate that FAM is effective or even served as a deterrent to potential threats. Since the program was expanded (from 33 marshals before 9/11), air marshals have not made a single terrorist arrest, though the armed, undercover agents have thwarted several disruptive passenger incidents.

In April, a woman on a Delta flight from London to Salt Lake City, Utah, jumped on an air marshal who had been supervising her because she overturned a drink cart. She was cuffed by another marshal for the duration of the flight and faces a year in prison.

In December 2005, air marshals shot and killed a man who claimed he had a bomb as he ran off an American Airlines flight in Miami. Ignoring calls to stop and get down, the shooting was declared legally justified in a 46-page report of the incident. The man had no explosives, but it was determined he had not taken his medication for a bipolar condition.

Even with 3,000 marshals, there is no way the TSA can cover the 42,000 daily flights in the U.S. There were no marshals on the trans-Atlantic flights containing shoe-bomber Richard Reid in 2001 or underwear bomber Umar Farouk in 2009.

Many criticize FAM for wasting time policing flights to nowhere on regional 50-seat aircraft when its the longer, bigger jets that need attention.

FAM is also sullied by low morale and accusations of alcohol abuse. Between 2002 and 2012, air marshals were arrested 148 times and charged with 5,000 cases of misconduct, including 1,200 cases of lost equipment  even their weapons.

If you travel for a living, imagine their job. They cant sleep in-flight, suffer from the same delays as the rest of us and have to be ready on a seconds notice to discharge their weapons at 30,000 feet.

Some marshals say FAMs problems are due to its ties with TSA. They suggest the service would be better off as part of Customs and Border Protection or the FBI.

But Robert MacLean  fired in 2006 by FAM for disclosing the service was reducing coverage of overnight flights, but returned to work after a 10-year legal fight  calls FAM security theater serving absolutely no purpose other than showing they (TSA) are doing something.

Jim Cameron is a longtime commuter advocate based in Fairfield County. Contact him at CommuterActionGroup@gmail.comEven without millions in personal wealth or the advantage of the party nomination, Tim Herbst has the other Republican candidates for governor right where he wants them.

The two self-funding millionaires, he says, are out-of-touch neophytes with records of contributing to Democrats. Danbury Mayor Mark Boughtons time has passed. Steve Obsitnik, the Westport tech entrepreneur, has no elective track record and Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti is up against a fast-approaching deadline for petitioning his way into the August primary.

Herbst, the former eight-year Trumbull first selectman and 2014 candidate for state treasurer, says hes the face of the next generation of Connecticut leaders. He is staking out a conservative agenda to appeal to the Republican base he hopes will buoy him to the GOP nomination.

Many, even in his own party, think his aggressive campaign shows he has a perennial chip on his shoulder and a permanent scowl on his face.

I dont think Im angry, Herbst said with a smile. Im competitive.

Bestowing Trumpian nicknames

Herbst is already looking past the Aug. 14 primary and ready to go head-to-head with Retread Ned, a Trump-style nickname he has concocted for the endorsed Democratic candidate, millionaire Ned Lamont, of Greenwich.

He is sitting on a stool in a coffee shop in his hometown, where he lives by himself in a house on an acre-and-a-third. The day is hot, the patrons come in wearing shorts and T-shirts, while Herbst wears a politicians body armor: the pin-striped suit, a pale-blue shirt and tie. A cross-fit devotee, Herbst orders a green iced-tea.

I call Ned Retread Ned because this is his third time at the rodeo, just as its Mark Boughtons third time at the rodeo, Herbst said of those candidates previous failures at statewide elections. So I dont think a retread candidate beats a retread candidate.

And who could win?

I think a 37-year-old whos won tough elections, whos been battle-tested, whos been through a statewide general election campaign, who has had to make difficult and unpopular decisions governing, who is the son of public school teachers, who comes from a humble and middle-class background, is the perfect contrast against somebody like Ned Lamont, Herbst said, referring to himself. And I think that the people of the state of Connecticut want strong, new leadership in our state.

Herbst barely acknowledges the outsider candidates, Bob Stefanowski, of Madison, and David Stemerman, of Greenwich, millionaires who are self-funding their campaigns and didnt participate in the convention. He dismissed their conservative credentials, noting they have given thousands to Democrats in the past.

Leading up to the convention, our polling showed that we were gaining ground and we were taking a lot of artillery fire from a lot of the other campaigns, Herbst said. We were taking it from the Walker campaign, the Lumaj campaign, the Lauretti campaign, the Boughton campaign. Given what was incoming, I was really proud where we ended up.

Of course, David Walker, of Bridgeport, and Peter Lumaj, of Fairfield, fell short at the Republican convention, Boughton got the partys endorsement and Herbst and Steve Obsitnik qualified to primary.

A three-way primary presents, I think, a unique opportunity to allow me to make the clear and compelling contrast with Mayor Boughton and Mr. Obsitnik, Herbst said, ignoring the uncomfortable fact that, if the three petitioning candidates are successful, the primary could be a six-way free for all. What Im going to be telling people across the state is very simple. This is a generational election in the st a te of Connecticut. Theyre going to have to decide whether they want to keep the same generation in place that caused this mess, or it they want to elect a new generation of leadership to fix this mess.

Battle-tested

To that end, Herbst wants as many public debates as possible over the next 11 weeks, to make it clear to Republican voters that he is the best choice for the nomination. He did not seek re-election in Trumbull so he could focus on the 2018 gubernatorial race, and has spent much of his time blasting Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Democrats in the General Assembly.

Herbsts spokesman, Jon Conradi, is the former former political editor for conservative bomb-thrower Laura Ingrahams LifeZette blog, a sign that Herbst is playing to the far right, a space left open by the Lumaj departure.

State Democrats, meanwhile, are targeting Boughton and Herbst.

Democrats are going to continue to do what weve always done: talk to voters about issues that matter to them because the choice between Democrats and Republicans in this election could not be more clear and the stakes could not be higher, said Christina Polizzi, spokeswoman for the Democatic State Central Committee.

Gary L. Rose, a Sacred Heart University political scientist who is preparing a book on the 2018 governors race, said he wouldnt be surprised if Herbst won the primary.

He is the conservative alternative, certainly, to Steve Obsitnik and Mark Boughton, Rose said, noting Herbst is honing his right-wing message for GOP primary voters.

Tims actually going to find a fairly receptive base for his candidacy, while Obsitnik and Boughton could be splitting their bases, Rose said. The Republican Party in Connecticut is not a right-wing party, but it has moved to the right over the years.

Boughton, who was elected mayor in 2001, was the nominee for lieutenant governor in 2010 and made an unsuccessful run for the partys gubernatorial nomination in 2014, is taking the political high ground,

avoiding a war of words

with Herbst.

Its kind of silly, he said of Herbsts campaign. If were going to win the primary and general election, its best to address the states yawning budget gap and putting people back to work. I have a track record and Im proud of it.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCTCA, Inc., doing business as CA technologies, develops, markets, delivers, and licenses software products and services in the United States and internationally. It operates through three segments: Mainframe Solutions, Enterprise Solutions, and Services. The Mainframe Solutions segment offers solutions for the IBM z Systems platform, which runs various mission critical business applications. Its mainframe solutions enable customers enhance economics by increasing throughput and lowering cost per transaction; increasing business agility through DevOps tooling and processes; increasing reliability and availability of operations through machine intelligence and automation solutions; and protecting enterprise data with security and compliance. The Enterprise Solutions segment provides a range of software planning, development, and management tools for mobile, cloud, and distributed computing environments. It primarily provides customers secure application development, infrastructure management, automation, and identity-centric security solutions. The Services segment offers various services, such as consulting, implementation, application management, education, and support services to commercial and government customers for implementation and adoption of its software solutions. The company serves banks, insurance companies, other financial services providers, government agencies, information technology service providers, telecommunication providers, transportation companies, manufacturers, technology companies, retailers, educational organizations, and health care institutions. It sells its products through direct sales force, as well as through various partner channels comprising resellers, service providers, system integrators, managed service providers, and technology partners. The company was formerly known as Computer Associates International, Inc. and changed its name to CA, Inc. in 2006. CA, Inc. was founded in 1974 and is headquartered in New York, New York.

Read MorePosted Sunday, June 3, 2018 8:00 am

Citizens Memorial Hospital in partnership with Missouri State Universitys Southwest Missouri Area Health Education Center will host the 2018 MASH (Missouri AHEC science and health) Camp from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, June 7-8, at the CMH Education Center, 1135 N. Oakland Ave., Bolivar.

The camp is open to students in ninth through 12th grades who are interested in science in the medical field and various health careers.

Cost is $30, which includes hands-on experiments, lab activities, lunch each day and a T-shirt.

For more information or to register, visit hec.missouristate.edu/Recruitment/MASH-Camp.htm or call Trish Lavish at 836-6154.Wall Street analysts have given FIBRA Prologis a "Buy" rating, but there may be better buying opportunities in the stock market. Some of MarketBeat's past winning trading ideas have resulted in 5-15% weekly gains. MarketBeat just released five new stock ideas, but FIBRA Prologis wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here. American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2021. All rights reserved.

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 2021 Market data provided is at least 10-minutes delayed and hosted by Barchart Solutions. Information is provided 'as-is' and solely for informational purposes, not for trading purposes or advice, and is delayed. To see all exchange delays and terms of use please see disclaimer. Fundamental company data provided by Zacks Investment Research.Moroccos full engagement to the UN peacekeeping efforts on the ground and at the New York headquarters were lauded by Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix of France.

Morocco is among the most committed countries in favor of peace keeping, said Lacroix at a press conference marking the 70th blue helmets day.

The UN official also commended Moroccos contribution to peacekeeping efforts at the UN headquarters in New York.

He sent a message of recognition to Morocco, which sent more than 1600 blue helmets to the UN missions in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONSUSCO).

Morocco, a historic contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, has, over the past 60 years, deployed some 70,000 soldiers, as well as several field hospitals under the aegis of the United Nations. Currently, Moroccan blue helmets are deployed in the Central African Republic and in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The commemorating ceremony of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers at the UN headquarters in New York Friday also honored the 128 peacekeepers who fell last year, including seven Moroccan soldiers who lost their life while serving with MINUSCA.

The fallen soldiers were awarded posthumously the Dag Hammarskjold Medal.

At the Medal ceremony, attended by Moroccos Representative to the UN Omar Hilale, the Secretary-General Antonio Guterres paid tribute to the service and sacrifice made by UN Blue Helmets for the cause of peace around the world.

He spoke of the increasingly complex challenges facing peacekeepers on the ground, saying that despite the overwhelming difficulties, civilian and uniformed UN personnel who had made the ultimate sacrifice  collectively and individually  had a profound impact on the communities they served.

The medal is named after Dag Hammarskjold, the second UN Secretary-General, who along with his entourage died in a plane crash in what is now Zambia in 1961.

Since the first peacekeeping mission deployed 70 years ago, more than 3,700 military, police and civilians who chose to serve, have lost their lives.

Last year saw the highest number of fatalities  132 individuals from 37 countries  for UN peacekeepers as a result of malicious acts; the highest in many years.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. 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Read MoreUnfortunately, he has reason to be pleased. Photo: Mikhail Klimentyev/Mikhail Klimentyev/POOL/TASS

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad plans to visit Kim Jong-un in North Korea, according to a report on Sunday from the state-controlled Korean Central News Agency.

Assad reportedly made the announcement of his visit on May 30, as he received the credentials of Mun Jong-nam, the new North Korean ambassador to Syria. The precise purpose of his trip is unclear, as is the timing.

Syria is one of the few countries that has maintained cordial diplomatic relations with North Korea over the last few decades, with the two countries establishing official ties in 1966. North Korea sent hundreds of troops to Syria to assist in its fight against Israel during the 1973 Arab-Israeli War. More recently, the U.N. has accused North Korea of supporting Syrias chemical-weapons program. Chemical attacks launched by Assad have repeatedly drawn international condemnation and ineffectual military responses from the United States.

Kim has been on a diplomatic blitz recently, after years of isolation. He recently met with Chinas Xi Jinping and South Koreas Moon Jae-in, though those those summits were held in the other leaders home countries. Both meetings were related to the upcoming sitdown with President Trump in Singapore on June 12, which now looks, once again, on track to actually happen.

The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political caliber and wise leadership of  Kim Jong-un, Assad said, according to the Korean News Agency, though the comment sounded more like boilerplate propaganda rhetoric than a head of states actual words.

The trip to North Korea may be a sign of Assads growing confidence. The Syrian civil war is in its eight catastrophic year, and the death toll stands in the hundreds of thousands  most of those dead at the hands of Assads forces. But, with a big assist from Russia, he has wrested control of almost all territory once governed by rebels, leaving him firmly in control of most of the devastated country. The fact that he feels unconstrained enough to visit an ally thousands of miles away is likely a testament to his strong political position.The following companies are subsidiares of CVS Health: @Credentials Inc., 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. 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Ltd., Aetna Insurance Company Limited, Aetna Integrated Informatics Inc., Aetna International Inc., Aetna Ireland Inc., Aetna Korea Ltd., Aetna Life & Casualty (Bermuda) Ltd., Aetna Life Assignment Company, Aetna Life Insurance Company, Aetna Medicaid Administrators LLC, Aetna Multi-Strategy 1099 Fund 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 Insurance Company, Allina Health and Aetna Insurance Holding Company LLC, American Continental Insurance Company, American Drug Stores Delaware L.L.C., American Health Holding Inc., 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. (R.C.S. Luxembourg), 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 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 Solutions 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 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 RS Arizona L.L.C., CVS Rx Services Inc., CVS SC Distribution L.L.C., CVS State Capital L.L.C., CVS TN Distribution L.L.C., CVS Transportation L.L.C., CVS Vero FL Distribution L.L.C., 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, Claims Administration Corp., 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 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 Workers Compensation 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 Rehabilitation Services Inc., Coventry Transplant Network Inc., D & R Pharmaceutical Services LLC, D.A.W. LLC, Delaware CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Delaware Physicians Care Incorporated, Digital eHealth LLC, 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 Inc., Express Pharmacy Services of PA L.L.C., FOCUS HealthCare Management Inc., First Health Group Corp., First Health Life & Health Insurance Company, First Script Network Services Inc., 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., Group Dental Service of Maryland Inc., Health Care Management Co. Ltd., Health Data & Management Solutions Inc., Health Re Inc., Health and Human Resource Center Inc., HealthAssuance Pennsylvania Inc., Healthagen LLC, 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 Life and Health Insurance Company, MHNet Specialty Services LLC, MHNet of Florida Inc., 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, MetraComp Inc., Minor Health Enterprise Co Ltd., MinuteClinic, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Alabama L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Arizona 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, Mississippi CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Missouri CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Montana CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., NCS Healthcare LLC, NCS Healthcare of Illinois LLC, NCS Healthcare of Iowa LLC, NCS Healthcare of Kansas LLC, NCS Healthcare of Kentucky Inc. (Oh, 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 Holdings Inc., NeighborCare Inc., NeighborCare Pharmacy Services Inc., NeighborCare Services Corporation, 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 Holding Company, Omnicare Inc., Omnicare Indiana Partnership Holding Company LLC, Omnicare Pharmacies of Pennsylvania East LLC, 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 Holdings Inc., 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., Pt. Aetna Global Benefits Indonesia, 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, Spinnaker Bidco Limited, Spinnaker Topco Limited, 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 L.L.C., 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.The following companies are subsidiares of Lennar: 360 Developers LLC, Alliance Financial Services Inc., Ann Arundel Farms Ltd., Aquaterra Utilities Inc., Arbor Mill Veteran Project 2018 LLC, Asbury Woods L.L.C., Astoria Options LLC, Autumn Creek Development Ltd., Aylon LLC, Azusa Associates LLC, B2 Milpitas LLC, BB Investment Holdings LLC, BCI Properties LLC, BMR Communities LLC, BMR Construction Inc., BMTD LLC, BPH I LLC, Bainebridge 249 LLC, Bay Colony Expansion 369 Ltd., Bellagio Lennar LLC, Belle Meade LEN Holdings LLC, Belle Meade Partners LLC, Black Mountain Ranch LLC, Blue Horizons Estates LLC, Bonterra Lennar LLC, Bramalea California Inc., Bressi Gardenlane LLC, Breton Park Lennar LLC, CAP IL 1 LLC, CL Ventures LLC, CML INACTIVE LLC, CML-MO HAF LLC, CML-MO HAF PARKING LLC, CP Block 6aS LLC, CP Block 8aS LLC, CP Block 9aS LLC, CP Center Apartments LLC, CP Center Garage LLC, CP Red Oak Partners Ltd., CP Vertical Development Co. 1 LLC, CP/HPS Development Co. GP LLC, CP/HPS Development Co.-C LLC, CPFE LLC, CPHP Development LLC, CalAtlantic Financial Services Inc., CalAtlantic Group, CalAtlantic Group Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Arizona Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Georgia Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Texas Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Washington Inc., CalAtlantic Mortgage Inc., CalAtlantic National Title Solutions LLC, CalAtlantic Title Agency LLC, CalAtlantic Title Group LLC, CalAtlantic Title Inc., CalAtlantic Title LLC, CalAtlantic Title of Maryland Inc., Camarillo Village Park LLC, Cambria L.L.C., Candlestick Retail Member LLC, Cardiovascular Medical Specialists LLC, Carolina Blue LLC, Carson 175 LLC, Cary Woods LLC, Casa Marina Development LLC, Central Park West Holdings LLC, Cherrytree II LLC, Club Bonterra Lennar LLC, Coco Palm 82 LLC, Colonial Heritage LLC, Columbia National Risk Retention Group Inc., Commonwealth Incentive Fee LLC, Concord Station LLP, Coventry L.L.C., Creekside Crossing L.L.C., Crest at Fondren Investor LLC, DBJ Holdings LLC, DCA Financial LLC, DTC Holdings of Florida LLC, Darcy-Joliet L.L.C., Durrell 33 LLC, EL Ventures LLC, EV LLC, Eagle Bend Commercial LLC, Eagle Home Mortgage LLC, Estates Seven LLC, Evergreen Village LLC, F&R QVI Home Investments USA LLC, FLORDADE LLC, Faria Preserve LLC, Fidelity Guaranty and Acceptance Corp., Fidelity Land LLC, Fox-Maple Associates LLC, Friendswood Development Company LLC, GDI MANAGER LLC, Garco Investments LLC, Greystone Construction Inc., Greystone Homes of Nevada Inc., Greystone Nevada Holdings LLC, Greystone Nevada LLC, Greywall Club L.L.C., HCC Investors LLC, HPS Development Co. LP, HPS Vertical Development Co. LLC, HPS Vertical Development Co.-B LP, HPS Vertical Development Co.-D/E LLC, HPS1 Block 1 LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3B LLC, HPS1 Block 50 LLC, HPS1 Block 51 LLC, HPS1 Block 52 LLC, HPS1 Block 53 LLC, HPS1 Block 54 LLC, HPS1 Block 55 LLC, HPS1 Block 56/57 LLC, HSP Arizona Inc., HTC Golf Club LLC, Hammocks Lennar LLC, Harbor Highlands Group LLC, Harveston LLC, Haverton L.L.C., Heathcote Commons LLC, Heritage Pkwy East Holdings LLC, Heritage of Auburn Hills L.L.C., Hewitts Landing Trustee LLC, Hingham Properties LLC, Huntley Venture L.L.C., Inactive Companies LLC, Independence L.L.C., Independence Orlando LLC, Isles at Bayshore Club LLC, KMC Real Estate Investors LLC, Kendall Hammocks Commercial LLC, Kentuckiana Medical Center LLC, Kingman Lennar LLC, LB/L  Duc III Antioch 330 LLC, LCD Asante LLC, LCI Downtown Doral Investor LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor GP LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor LP LLC, LEN - Belle Meade LLC, LEN - OBS Windemere LLC, LEN - Palm Vista LLC, LEN BPT Investor LLC, LEN Mirada Investor LLC, LEN Notarize Investor LLC, LEN OT Holdings LLC, LEN Paradise Cable LLC, LEN Paradise Operating LLC, LEN-CG South LLC, LEN-Cypress Mill LLC, LEN-Ryan 1 LLC, LEN-Touchstone LLC, LENH I LLC, LENNAR HOMES OF TENNESSEE LLC, LFS Holding Company LLC, LH Eastwind LLC, LHI Renaissance LLC, LMC 10th & Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 144th and Grant Investor LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Holdings LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Investor LLC, LMC 360 Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 410 S Wabash Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Investor LLC, LMC 8th Avenue Apartment Investor LLC, LMC 990 Bannock Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Investor LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Holdings LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Investor LLC, LMC Block 42 Holdings LLC, LMC Build to Core III Investor LLC, LMC Build to Core III LLC, LMC Burnside Holdings LLC, LMC Burnside Investor LLC, LMC Chandler and McClintock Holdings LLC, LMC Charlestowne Holdings LLC, LMC Charlotte Ballpark Developer LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Holdings LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Investor LLC, LMC Cobalt Holdings LLC, LMC Costa Mesa Holdings LP, LMC Crest at Park West Holdings LP, LMC Denver Gateway I Investor LLC, LMC Denver Gateway II Holdings LLC, LMC Development LLC, LMC Downtown Doral South Holdings LLC, LMC Durham Gateway Holdings LP, LMC Evans School Holdings LLC, LMC Gateway Investor LLC, LMC Gateway Venture LLC, LMC Gilman Square Investor LLC, LMC Horton Street Holdings LLC, LMC Huntington Crossing Holdings LLC, LMC Inactive Companies LLC, LMC Lakeside Holdings LP, LMC Leya Holdings LLC, LMC Living Illinois LLC, LMC Living Inc., LMC Living LLC, LMC Living TRS LP, LMC Millenia Investor II LLC, LMC NE Minneapolis Lot 2 Holdings LLC, LMC New Bern Investor LLC, LMC North Park Holdings LP, LMC Parkfield Holdings LLC, LMC Parkfield Investor LLC, LMC Righters Ferry Holdings LLC, LMC River North Holdings LLC, LMC Spring Street Investor LLC, LMC Stonewall Station Investor LLC, LMC Triangle Square Investor LLC, LMC Venture Developer LLC, LMC Verbena Holdings LLC, LMC West Loop Investor LLC, LMCFX Investor LLC, LMCPNW Marymoor Holdings LLC, LMI - Jacksonville Investor LLC, LMI - South Kings Development Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle Holdings LLC, LMI - West Seattle Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle LLC, LMI Cell Tower Investors LLC, LMI City Walk Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale LLC, LMI Contractors LLC, LMI Glencoe Dallas Investor LLC, LMI Lakes West Covina Investor LLC, LMI Largo Park Investor LLC, LMI Las Colinas Station LLC, LMI Naperville Investor LLC, LMI Pacific Tower LLC, LMI Park Central Two LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners Investor LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners LLC, LMI-JC Developer LLC, LMI-JC LLC, LMV 1640 Broadway REIT-DC LP, LMV 1701 Ballard REIT-DC LP, LMV 19H REIT-DC LP, LMV 2026 Madison REIT-DC LP, LMV 85 South Union REIT-DC LP, LMV ATown REIT-DC LP, LMV Annapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Apache Terrace REIT-DC LP, LMV Block 42 REIT-DC LP, LMV Bloomington REIT-DC LP, LMV Bolingbrook REIT-DC LP (DE), LMV Central at McDowell REIT-DC LP, LMV East Village I REIT-DC LP, LMV Edina REIT-DC LP, LMV Fremont WS I REIT-DC LP, LMV Glisan REIT-DC LP, LMV Grand Bay REIT-DC LP, LMV II Grand Bay Pod V Holdings LP, LMV II Kierland Holdings LP, LMV II NoMo Holdings LP, LMV II Venture Developer LLC, LMV II Wynwood Holdings LP, LMV Kirkland REIT-DC LP, LMV Little Italy REIT-DC LP, LMV M Tower REIT-DC LP, LMV Millenia II REIT-DC LP, LMV Milpitas REIT-DC LP, LMV NE Minneapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Oak Park REIT-DC LP, LMV One20Fourth REIT-DC LP, LMV QR Build to Core Manager LLC, LMV Rio Bravo REIT-DC LP, LMV Scottsdale Quarter REIT-DC LP, LMV Tysons REIT-DC LP, LMV Vallagio III REIT-DC LP, LMV Victory Block G REIT-DC LP, LMV Warren Street REIT-DC LP, LNC Communities II LLC, LNC Communities IV LLC, LNC Communities V LLC, LNC Communities VI LLC, LNC Communities VII LLC, LNC Communities VIII LLC, LNC Pennsylvania Realty Inc., LNC at Meadowbrook LLC, LNC at Ravenna LLC, LS College Park LLC, LS Terracina LLC, LV Opendoor Investor LLC, LV Opendoor JV LLC, LW D'Andrea LLC, Lagoon Valley Residential LLC, Lakelands at Easton L.L.C., Legends Club LLC, Legends Golf Club LLC, Len - Little Harbor LLC, Len FW Investor LLC, Len Paradise LLC, Len-Angeline LLC, Len-Hawks Point LLC, Len-Land LLC, Len-Land West LLC, Len-MN LLC, Len-Verandahs LLP, LenCom LLC, LenFive LLC, LenFive Opco GP LLC, LenFive Sub III LLC, LenFive Sub LLC, LenFive Sub Opco GP LLC, Lenalto CMBS LLC, Lencraft LLC, Lennar Aircraft I LLC, Lennar Arizona Construction Inc., Lennar Arizona Inc., Lennar Associates Management Holding Company, Lennar Associates Management LLC, Lennar Avenue One LLC, Lennar Berkeley LLC, Lennar Bevard LLC, Lennar Bridges LLC, Lennar Buffington Colorado Crossing L.P., Lennar Buffington Zachary Scott L.P., Lennar Carolinas LLC, Lennar Central Park LLC, Lennar Central Region Sweep Inc., Lennar Chicago Inc., Lennar Cobra LLC, Lennar Colgate Urban Renewal Development LLC, Lennar Colorado LLC, Lennar Colorado Minerals LLC, Lennar Commercial LLC, Lennar Communities Development Inc., Lennar Communities Inc., Lennar Communities Nevada LLC, Lennar Communities of Chicago L.L.C., Lennar Concord LLC, Lennar Construction Inc., Lennar Cory Road LLC, Lennar Courts LLC, Lennar Developers Inc., Lennar Ewing LLC, Lennar Financial Services LLC, Lennar Flamingo LLC, Lennar Fresno Inc., Lennar Gardens LLC, Lennar Georgia Inc., Lennar Greer Ranch Venture LLC, Lennar Heritage Fields LLC, Lennar Hingham Holdings LLC, Lennar Hingham JV LLC, Lennar Homes Holding LLC, Lennar Homes LLC, Lennar Homes NJ LLC, Lennar Homes of Arizona Inc., Lennar Homes of California Inc., Lennar Homes of Indiana Inc., Lennar Homes of Texas Land and Construction Ltd., Lennar Homes of Texas Sales and Marketing Ltd., Lennar Homes of Utah Inc., Lennar International Holding LLC, Lennar International LLC, Lennar Lakeside Investor LLC, Lennar Layton LLC, Lennar Living LLC, Lennar Lytle LLC, Lennar MF Holdings LLC, Lennar MPA LLC, Lennar MPA WIP LLC, Lennar Mare Island LLC, Lennar Marina A Funding LLC, Lennar Massachusetts Properties Inc., Lennar Middletown LLC, Lennar Monmouth Redevelopers LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Victory Block G Mezz LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily Builders LLC, Lennar Multifamily Communities LLC, Lennar Multifamily Venture DC LP, Lennar New Jersey Holdings LLC, Lennar New Jersey Properties Inc., Lennar New York LLC, Lennar Northeast Properties LLC, Lennar Northwest Inc., Lennar OHB LLC, Lennar PI Acquisition LLC, Lennar PI Property Acquisition LLC, Lennar PIS Management Company LLC, Lennar Pacific Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Management Inc., Lennar Plumsted Urban Renewal LLC, Lennar Point LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core GP LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core LP LLC, Lennar Realty Inc., Lennar Reno LLC, Lennar Riverwalk LLC, Lennar Sacramento Inc., Lennar Sales Corp., Lennar Sierra Sunrise LLC, Lennar Spencer's Crossing LLC, Lennar Sun Ridge LLC, Lennar Texas Holding LLC, Lennar Ventures LLC, Lennar West Valley LLC, Lennar Winncrest LLC, Lennar at Franklin LLC, Lennar at Jackson LLC, Lennar at Marlboro 79 LLC, Lennar at Monroe LLC, Lennar.com Inc., Longleaf Acquisition LLC, Lori Gardens Associates II LLC, Lori Gardens Associates III LLC, Lori Gardens Associates L.L.C., Lorton Station LLC, Lyons Lennar Farms LLC, Madrona Ridge L.L.C., Madrona Village L.L.C., Madrona Village Mews L.L.C., Majestic Woods LLC, Maple and Broadway Holdings LLC, Menifee Development LLC, Mid-County Utilities Inc., Miralago West Lennar LLC, Mission Viejo 12S Venture LP, Mission Viejo Holdings Inc., Motomic Diagnostics LLC, Multibank 2009-1 CML-ADC Venture LLC, Multibank 2009-1 RES-ADC Venture LLC, NC Properties I LLC, NC Properties II LLC, North American Asset Development LLC, Northbridge L.L.C., OHC/Ascot Belle Meade LLC, One SR L.P., PD-Len Boca Raton LLC, PG Properties Holding LLC, POMAC LLC, PT Metro LLC, Pace Drive Holdings LLC, Palm Gardens At Doral Clubhouse LLC, Palm Gardens at Doral LLC, Palm Springs Classic LLC, Palm Vista Preserve LLC, Patuxent Infrastructure Inc., Pioneer Meadows Development LLC, Pioneer Meadows Investments LLC, Plaza Condominium Ventures LLC, Portside Marina Developers L.L.C., Portside SM Associates L.L.C., Portside SM Holdings L.L.C., Portside Shipyard Developers L.L.C., Prestonfield L.L.C., Quail Roost Lennar LLC, RCCF GP II LLC, RCCF GP III LLC, RCCF GP IV LLC, RCCF GP LLC, RES-FL EIGHT LLC, RES-FL SEVEN LLC, RES-FL VISION ONE LLC, RES-FL VISION TWO LLC, RES-GA CASCADE LLC, RES-GA DIAMOND MEADOWS LLC, RES-GA KAP LLC, RES-GA SOUTHERN PLANTATION LLC, RES-GA THIRTEEN LLC, RES-GA TWELVE LLC, RES-GA WEST LLC, RES-IL ONE LLC, RES-NC ONE LLC, RES-PA LSJ LLC, RES-PA POM LLC, RES-TX BOULEVARD LLC, RH Insurance Company Inc., RH MOA BBCMS 2017-C1 LLC, RH MOA CF 2017-C8 LLC, RH MOA LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C4 LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C6 LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 CLASS B LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 LLC, RL BB FINANCIAL LLC, RL BB INACTIVE LLC, RL BB-AL LLC, RL BB-FL ALHI LLC, RL BB-GA LLC, RL BB-GA RMH LLC, RL BB-IL LLC, RL BB-IN AA LLC, RL BB-IN KRE LLC, RL BB-IN KRE OP LLC, RL BB-IN KRE RE LLC, RL BB-MS LLC, RL BB-NC LLC, RL BB-OH LLC, RL BB-SC BROOKSA LLC, RL BB-SC CLR II LLC, RL BB-SC CLR III LLC, RL BB-SC CLR IV LLC, RL BB-SC CLR LLC, RL BB-SC CRRC LLC, RL BB-SC RACEDAY LLC, RL BB-TN BRISTOL LLC, RL BB-TN LLC, RL BB-TN RACEDAY TOWER LLC, RL BB-TX LLC, RL BB-WV LLC, RL CMBS Holdings LLC, RL CML 2009-1 Investments LLC, RL REGI ARKANSAS LLC, RL REGI Alabama LLC, RL REGI FINANCIAL LLC, RL REGI Florida LLC, RL REGI GEORGIA LLC, RL REGI INACTIVE LLC, RL REGI KANSAS LLC, RL REGI MISSISSIPPI LLC, RL REGI MISSOURI LLC, RL REGI NORTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI SOUTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI TENNESSEE LLC, RL REGI VIRGINIA LLC, RL REGI-AL HP LLC, RL REGI-AL VRC LLC, RL REGI-FL CRC LLC, RL REGI-FL ESH LLC, RL REGI-FL FT. 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It operates through the following segments: New Jersey Natural Gas, NJR Clean Energy Ventures, NJR Energy Services, NJR Midstream, and NJR Home Services. The New Jersey Natural Gas segment provides regulated retail natural gas service to residential and commercial customers in central and northern New Jersey. The NJR Clean Energy Ventures segment invests in, owns and operates solar projects. The NJR Energy Services segment manages a diversified portfolio of natural gas transportation and storage assets and provides physical natural gas services in the U.S. and Canada. The NJR Midstream segment serves customers from local distributors and producers to electric generators and wholesale marketers. The NJR Home Services segment provides heating, ventilation and cooling service, sales and installation of appliances services to its customers, as well as solar installation projects, and is the primary contributor to home services. The company was founded in 1981 and is headquartered in Wall,

Read MoreTheyre not booing, theyre saying Ruuudy. Photo: Elsa/Getty Images

Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani, last seen celebrating his birthday by being booed at Yankee Stadium, appeared on ABCs This Week with George Stephanopoulos Sunday morning. And, as is his wont, he did not do his client many favors during his typically freewheeling performance. Instead, he mostly made the president sound very guilty. His three most (unintentionally) damning arguments, below:

1) Most of what Trump did was probably legal

On Saturday, the New York Times reported that Trumps lawyers had sent Special Counsel Robert Mueller a 20-page letter laying out their argument that the president cannot, by definition, obstruct justice. Questioned about this frightening assertion, Giuliani first advance the shaky theory that Trump didnt obstruct anything by firing FBI Director James Comey, because he knew the investigation into Russian interference would continue without him. He also said that when Trump told Comey to let the Michael Flynn investigation go, he didnt mean what he almost certainly meant:

On ABC, Giuliani defends "Let this go": "Saying to a potential prosecutor, 'Give the guy a break' ... You know what that means. You take into consideration that the man was a war hero ... Sometimes you don't indict. Sometimes you lessen the severity. ... Sometimes you ignore it."  Will Saletan (@saletan) June 3, 2018

But then Giuliani topped himself with this gem:

Giuliani to @ThisWeekABC: "For every one these things he did, we can write out five reasons why he did it. Four of them are completely innocent, and one of them is your assumption that it's a guilty motive, which the president would deny." https://t.co/3jLhIMelu4 pic.twitter.com/FO6rTd8M2T  ABC News (@ABC) June 3, 2018

Ah yes, the toothpaste-ad approach to justice. Four out of five motives are pure!

2) Memory is Malleable

Stephanopoulus noted that in the letter Trumps lawyers sent to Mueller, they made it clear that Trump personally dictated a misleading statement about the infamous June 2016 meeting between Trump campaign officials and Russian operatives. Previously, the White House had denied, unconvincingly, that the president had anything to do with that missive. The administration then changed its story, admitting Trump had played a role in the statements drafting but not that he dictated it.

Giulianis response to all this:

Asked about shifting explanations for statement on Trump Tower meeting, Rudy Giuliani tells @GStephanopoulos:



"This is the reason you don't let the president testify. Our recollection keeps changing, or we're not even asked a question and somebody makes an assumption." pic.twitter.com/Ya0dK1KenB  ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) June 3, 2018

Our recollection keeps changing has not, historically, been a winning legal argument.

3) Sure, Trump can pardon himself

Amid signs that Trump will have little compunction about pardoning underlings who dont turn states evidence on him, Stephanopoulos asked if the president has the power to let himself off the hook.

JUST IN: Does Pres. Trump have the power to pardon himself?



"He's not, but he probably does," Rudy Giuliani tells @GStephanopoulos. "He has no intention of pardoning himself, but that doesn't say he can't." https://t.co/IEUEWnjQqe #ThisWeek pic.twitter.com/IE1AocigYl  This Week (@ThisWeekABC) June 3, 2018

He has no intention of pardoning himself, butit doesnt say he cant! Giuliani said. Thats another really interesting Constitutional argumentcan the president pardon himself? he mused. It would be an open question, but gosh, I think it would probably get answered by, Gosh, thats what the Constitution says, and if you want to change it, change it.

From a Constitutional perspective, Giuliani may have a point. Still, his casually tossed-off assertion that a president under investigation can place himself completely above the law may have made even Richard Nixon blush.

It should come as no surprise, though, given the other signals Trumps legal team has sent recently. Their overarching legal argument  that the president can do whatever he wants  has become clearer than ever in recent days. Giulianis points to a looming constitutional crisis that will pit the Trump administrations declaration of king-like powers against the rule of law.The following companies are subsidiares of Rite Aid: 1515 West State Street Boise Idaho LLC, 1740 Associates LLC, 4042 Warrensville Center RoadWarrensville Ohio Inc., 5277 Associates Inc., 5600 Superior Properties Inc., Advance Benefits LLC, Apex Drug Stores Inc., Ascend Health Technology LLC, Bartell Drugs, Broadview and WallingsBroadview Heights Ohio Inc., Design Rx Holdings LLC, Design Rx LLC, Design Rxclusives LLC, Drug Palace Inc., EDC Drug Stores Inc., Eckerd Corporation, Edgehill Drugs, Elixir Insurance Company, Elixir Pharmacy LLC, Elixir Rx Options LLC, Elixir Rx Solutions LLC, Elixir Rx Solutions LLC, Elixir Rx Solutions of Nevada LLC, Elixir Savings LLC, Envision Pharmaceutical, Envision Pharmaceutical Holdings LLC, EnvisionRx Puerto Rico Inc., First Florida Insurers of Tampa LLC, GDF Inc., Genovese Drug Stores Inc., Gettysburg and Hoover-Dayton Ohio LLC, Grand River & Fenkell LLC, Harco, Harco Inc., Health Dialog, Health Dialog Services Corporation, Hunter Lane LLC, ILG  90 B Avenue Lake Oswego LLC, JCG (PJC) USA LLC, JCG Holdings (USA) Inc., K&B Alabama Corporation, K&B Incorporated, K&B Industries, K&B Louisiana Corporation, K&B Mississippi Corporation, K&B Services Incorporated, K&B Tennessee Corporation, K&B Texas Corporation, LMW  90B Avenue Lake Oswego Inc., Lakehurst and Broadway Corporation, Laker Software LLC, Maxi Drug Inc., Maxi Drug North Inc., Maxi Drug South L.P., Maxi Green Inc., Munson & Andrews LLC, Name Rite LLC, P.J.C. Distribution Inc., P.J.C. Realty Co. Inc., PCS Health Systems, PDS-1 Michigan Inc., PJC Lease Holdings Inc., PJC Manchester Realty LLC, PJC Peterborough Realty LLC, PJC Realty MA Inc., PJC Revere Realty LLC, PJC Special Realty Holdings Inc., PJC of Massachusetts Inc., PJC of Rhode Island Inc., PJC of Vermont Inc., Perry Distributors Inc., Perry Drug Stores Inc., RCMH LLC, RDS Detroit Inc., READs Inc., RediClinic, RediClinic Associates Inc., RediClinic LLC, RediClinic US LLC, RediClinic of DC LLC, RediClinic of DE LLC, RediClinic of Dallas Forth-Worth LLC, RediClinic of MD LLC, RediClinic of PA LLC, RediClinic of VA LLC, Richfield Road  Flint Michigan LLC, Rite Aid Drug Palace Inc., Rite Aid Hdqtrs. Corp., Rite Aid Hdqtrs. Funding Inc., Rite Aid Lease Management Company, Rite Aid Online Store Inc., Rite Aid Payroll Management Inc., Rite Aid Realty Corp., Rite Aid Rome Distribution Center Inc., Rite Aid Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Rite Aid Transport Inc., Rite Aid of Connecticut Inc., Rite Aid of Delaware Inc., Rite Aid of Georgia Inc., Rite Aid of Indiana Inc., Rite Aid of Kentucky Inc., Rite Aid of Maine Inc., Rite Aid of Maryland Inc., Rite Aid of Michigan Inc., Rite Aid of New Hampshire Inc., Rite Aid of New Jersey Inc., Rite Aid of New York Inc., Rite Aid of North Carolina Inc., Rite Aid of Ohio Inc., Rite Aid of Pennsylvania LLC, Rite Aid of South Carolina Inc., Rite Aid of Tennessee Inc., Rite Aid of Vermont Inc., Rite Aid of Virginia Inc., Rite Aid of Washington D.C. Inc., Rite Aid of West Virginia Inc., Rite Investments Corp., Rite Investments Corp. LLC, Rx Choice Inc., Rx Initiatives LLC, Rx USA Inc., The Bartell Drug Company, The Jean Coutu Group (PJC) USA Inc., The Lane Drug Company, Thrift Drug Inc., Thrifty Corporation, and Thrifty PayLess Inc..Avient Corp. engages in the business of thermoplastic compounds. It specializes in polymer materials, services, and solutions with operations in specialty polymer formulations, color and additive systems, plastic sheet and packaging solutions and polymer distribution. The firm is also involved in the development and manufacturing of performance enhancing additives, liquid colorants, fluoropolymers and silicone colorants. It operates through the following segments: Color, Additives and Inks; Specialty Engineered Materials; and Distribution. The Color, Additives and Inks segment provides custom color and additive concentrates in solid and liquid form for thermoplastics, dispersions for thermosets, speciality inks, plasticols, and vinyl slush molding solutions. The Specialty Engineered Materials segment makes polymer formulations, services, and solutions for designers, assemblers, and processors of thermoplastic materials. The Distribution segment distributes engineering and commodity grade resins, including PolyOne-produced solutions, principally to the North American, Central American, and Asian markets. The firm's products include polymer distribution, screen printing inks, and thermoplastic elastomers. Its services include IQ design and color services. The company was founded on August 31, 2000 and is headquartered in Avon Lake, OH.

Read MoreState Minister for Higher Education John Chrysostom Muyingo has said Ugandas youth should be helped acquire proper skills to make them competitive on job market.

We cannot overcome poverty in Uganda without empowering 80 per cent of the countrys population who are young people below 35 years. All efforts and resources shall continue to be committed towards this cause and ensure that we also invite more partners to work with government, he said.

State Minister for Higher Education John Chrysostom Muyingo

Muyingo said this on May 9 during the launch of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) training project at Datamine Technical Business School in Kampala. The CNC aims at skilling the youth in computer technology.

The government, through Private Sector Foundation, donated Shs 769 million towards the building of the laboratory where the CNC machine will be stored, training of the trainers for the project and training of students.

The institute principal, Deo Nyanzi, said the machine will be used in training students to accurately cut and shape all kind of metal, plastics and wood by using computer commands.

It has a lot of safe measures since it uses computer commands. CNC machines are electro-mechanical devices that manipulate machine shop tools using computer programming inputs, he said.

Muyingo said the government has set out a massive skilling programme for youth to help them acquire job skills and make them more productive in modern technology.

As government, we are encouraged by the efforts towards turning Datamine Technical Business School into a CNC technicians and operators certifying centre. In order to make our youths marketable, they need to be certified to levels that make them compete at the global scale, he said.

Gideon Badagawa, the executive director, Private Sector Foundation Uganda, advised the students to respect their jobs and all people at work.

The chairman of the institutes board, Michael Mwebe, said: We appreciate the realisation of government and its local and international partners for engendering strategic partnerships in promotion of technical, business and vocational training in the country. We shall use this partnership to enhance the relevance of skilling Uganda as a key deliverable for youth in Uganda.

He said every year they graduate over 500 youths who are oriented to the requirements of the job market.Hundreds of pilgrims in Namugongo seeking to make mobile money transactions were left stranded due to a breakdown in telecommunications networks and several outlets running out of cash.



Our reporter visited at least 20 mobile money outlets and discovered that people were being turned away after the operators told them they could not dispense cash. Martin Mugoya, a mobile money operator in Namugongo, says that he turned away several customers due to lack of funds.

Some of pilgrims at an MTN mobile money stall

"Many people are coming and 'bouncing'. They kept their money on their mobile phones but it's unfortunate that even network has been too poor since morning. I can only send money but withdrawing is hard because I don't have hard cash," Mugoya said.

Sarah Nassuna, another mobile money operator around the Catholic Martyrs shrine said they had sold out all the airtime scratch cards in stock.



"Like you are seeing, I am very tired. I have been here since yesterday. We sold throughout the night and now I don't have cash to give out to people. Many are coming here but we have nothing to do. Suppliers did not come today," Nassuna said.



The pilgrims were equally affected. Christine Anyatcho, from Tororo, says that she moved to more than four outlets and there was no money because of network problem.



"I think its network because I have been moving all around but I am not yet successful. I want money for transport so I don't know how to manage without transport here when the network is down," Anyatcho said.



It was estimated that between 3-4 million pilgrims attended today's Martyrs Day celebrations at both the Catholic and Anglican shrines in Namugongo.

According to Bank of Uganda estimates there are about 22 mobile money subscribers in Uganda with MTN taking the lions share at 54 per cent and Airtel mobile money at 25 per cent.The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stanley Ntagali has dismissed media reports indicating that the Church House building on Kampala Road is to be auctioned off by a bank so as to recover its loan money advanced to the church recently.

Addressing pilgrims at the Anglican shrine, in reference to the Sunday Vision story, President Yoweri Museveni expressed concern that the Church House, to which he contributed Shs 300 million towards its construction was up for auction.

President Museveni addressing pilgrims at Namugongo

According to story, the property is at risk of being auctioned off by Equity bank that extended Shs 43 billion loan towards the construction of the 16 storey building over non-payment. The report said that the bank wanted to auction off the building last year in a bid to recover the money it invested in the project.

The structure was estimated to cost Shs 61.6 billion once completed with Christians contributing towards the church project for the past 40 years and additional funding provided by Equity bank.

"On Church House, I saw in the papers that they were threateningsomething was happening but I pledgedwe cannot allow that to happen. I will discuss with your leaders because you have done a great job to put up that tall building. It should become a base not to be taken over by the business people." Museveni said.

Calling the report total lies being peddled by the enemies of the church, Ntagali explained that Equity bank is a church partner in the project and that the building contractor, Cementers are to hand over the building to the Anglican Church this month on June 14.

"Your excellency what you, and, all of us read in the papers, are total lies, weve a representative of Equity bank our partner and our contractors, Cementers are handing over the building to us on 14th this month. This month, Equity bank is set to move from Katwe to Church House next month.

The Church holdings missions company has planned that during the assembly on 23rd August, we officially open the building and were inviting you your excellency to be our guest of honour on that day. Let us forgive New Vision for the propaganda, those are not our friends who put that article and may God forgive them." said Ntangali.

MORE PILGRIMS THIS YEAR

It is estimated that there were more pilgrims this year who converged at both the Catholic and Anglican shrines in Namugongo to celebrate the lives of 46 martyrs killed between 1885 and 1887.



It is estimated that about four million pilgrims from within and outside Uganda flocked to both shrines to attend the country's most attended event. Every June 3rd, faithfuls especially Anglicans and Catholics take part in a pilgrimage to the martyrs shrines in Namugongo.

The 22 Catholic and 24 Anglican converts were killed between May and June 1886 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda kingdom. In October 1964, Pope Paul VI canonized the Uganda Martyrs.

At the Anglican shrine at Nakiyanja, service was led by the Greater Kigezi Diocese which comprises of Kigezi, North Kigezi, Muhabura and Kinkiizi while at the Catholic shrine, the celebrations were led by Tororo Diocese. Tororo last presided over the martyrs day celebrations 20 years ago in 1998.

Some of the key dignitaries at Nakiyanja included prime minister Ruhakana Rugunda, speaker of parliament Rebecca Kadaga, former prime minister Amama Mbabazi, state minister for planning David Bahati, former presidential candidate Dr Kizza Besigye. When Besigye was introduced to the pilgrims, there was a rapturing cheer from the crowd.

Museveni said he was happy that there were now more pilgrims at the Anglican shrine unlike in previous years, when the church went to sleep as their Catholic brothers earned big from the day.

NAMUGONGO RESIDENTS COMPLAIN, JUBILATE

With several roads to and around both shrines blocked off or half closed, residents of Namugongo, Kyaliwajjala struggled to access their homes.

As part of the security plan, several roads leading to both the Catholic and Anglican shrines were closed from a distance of 5km. Residents were left with two options, to either walk or use boda-boda taxis.



Traffic in the surrounding areas of Namugongo was also noticeably affected with those driving having to take longer routes to get to their destinations. Harriet Nabitalo, resident of Namugongo, says on top of closing the roads, transport fares were also hiked.



From Namugongo to Kireka boda boda cyclists were charging Shs 5,000 from the usual Shs 2,000 fare while from Kireka to town, taxis were charging Shs 3,000 from the usual Shs 1,500.



For some residents however, Martyrs Day brought with it several business opportunities. William Kato, a resident in the area increased the price of 20 litre jerrycan of water from Shs 200 to Shs 1,000.



Several homesteads also opened up their toilet facilities for commercial benefit with some charging as high as Shs 2,000 per person. Steward Cadribo, a security guard at Shrine guesthouse near St. Kizito high school, Namugongo said one had to part with Shs 1,500 and Shs 2,000 to access his bathrooms and toilet facilities.



Cadribo was also charging between Shs 5,000 and Shs 15,000 as parking fees per vehicle. He said because of the Martyrs Day, which he wanted to be extended beyond June 3, he's able to make lots money from the over 50 vehicles his parking lot is able to accommodate.India's export of finished steel slumped by 25.2 per cent to 0.558 million tonnes (MT) during April 2018, according to a report.

New Delhi: India's export of finished steel slumped by 25.2 per cent to 0.558 million tonnes (MT) during April 2018, according to a report.

The country had exported 0.746 MT finished steel during the same month a year ago, the Joint Plant Committee (JPC) said it its latest report. The JPC, under Ministry of Steel, is the only institution in the country that collects and maintains data on domestic steel and iron industry.

"At 0.558 MT, export of total finished steel was down by 25.2 per cent in April 2018 over April 2017," the report said. The total output of finished steel for sale in April stood at 8.737 MT, up 5.4 per cent from 8.286 MT the country had produced in the same month last year, the report said.

Union Steel Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh had earlier said that India should export six to seven per cent of its total steel production. As against exports, the imports grew 18.8 per cent to 0.599 MT during April, compared to 0.504 MT in the same month previous year. India's consumption of total finished steel grew 8.2 per cent to 6.984 MT over April 2017, when the consumption was 6.454 MT, the report said.

"The consumption of total finished steel saw a growth of 8.2 per cent in April 2018 at 6.984 MT over April 2017, under the influence of a rising supply side as both production for sale and imports increased in April 2018 over April 2017," the JPC said.

The Cabinet, in May last year, approved National Steel Policy (NSP) 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 NSP also aims at more than doubling the per capita steel consumption to 158 kg by 2030-31, from about 61 kg at present.Country's largest lender SBI, which has not been able to invest in fintech startups despite earmarking funds, is now looking to modify rules to kickstart the infusion, a top official has said.

Mumbai: Country's largest lender SBI, which has not been able to invest in fintech startups despite earmarking funds, is now looking to modify rules to kickstart the infusion, a top official has said.

"We are a public institution and investments in startups are generally considered very risky. We understand that traditional way of investing will not work," chairman Rajnish Kumar told PTI on the sidelines of an event here over the weekend. He said the bank, which has earmarked Rs 50 crore to invest in fintech startups, will be modifying the rules in order to plough-in the money.

"We want to spend the money which we have earmarked," Kumar stressed, adding that it is keen to create more companies like online retailer Flipkart and ride sharing app Ola, which define the country's prowess.

Kumar said SBI has a board-approved policy to support the fintech sector, which has passed the necessary oversight bodies like Central Vigilance Commission.

He said the bank has been able to make progress on two other aspects of the fintech engagements, including procuring goods from such startups and also playing an active role with the ecosystem through collaborations.

Kumar said the bank is also planning to invest Rs 25 crore to set up a collaborative innovation centre in the satellite city of Navi Mumbai to promote latest technologies.

The bank, which has 430 million customers or a third of the country's population, has worked with over 150 startups till now on various cutting edge technologies including chatbot, data analytics, etc, according to him.

The lender has held five editions of hackathons to collaborate and search for the best solutions, Kumar said. At present, the entire bank runs from its global technology centre at Belapur in Navi Mumbai.A blanket of silence has fallen over Galaxy Apartments after Salman Khans brother Arbaaz Khan allegedly confessed his involvement in the IPL betting.

While even the usually outspoken and forthright Khan patriarch Salim Khan is quiet, no one in the family is willing to make a statement. A close friend of Salman says the family is in a state of shock.

I dont think anyone in the family knew about this (Arbaazs betting). Arbaaz didnt share this with anyone. Salman and the family came to know about it only when he was summoned for interrogation. Now theyre waiting for Arbaaz to tell them everything in detail. No one in the family will persuade Arbaaz to talk. The family lives together but each member is given space, says the friend.

None of Salmans friends will speak to him about this unsavoury controversy that has raised its ugly head from nowhere.

They dont know what hit them. I think, neither Salim saab nor Salman interfere with Arbaazs life. After the public breakup with wife Malaika and his subsequent association with another woman, I dont think anyone in the family was happy with this. Now this latest controversy is quite a setback, adds the friend.

With Salman currently out in the public domain promoting Race 3, it would be hard for the actor to maintain silence over his brothers alleged misdemeanor.KOLLAM: The police team under Kochi Range IG Vijay Sakare on Sunday recovered weapons including swords used to abduct Kevin, the victim of dishonour killing. They found swords in a drain near the house of Vishnu, one of the accused, in Punalur. The investigators are yet to conclude if he had drowned as he fled the assassins or the gang threw him into to the river to finish him off.

They are also looking at the option of arraigning his widows mother, Rehana, in the murder plot. The team collected pieces of evidence by taking the detainees Fasal, Niyas, Riyas, and Vishnu tracing the path they travelled after abducting Kevin.

Police also searched for evidence in Vishnus house. Meanwhile, the accused reiterated their statement that Kevin had escaped from their custody. The accused also showed the team the route through which Kevin escaped into the woods and eventually ended up near the Chaliyekkara River from where his body was recovered. Police also registered the timeline in which Kevin was taken to Thenmala from Kottayam where he was abducted.

Meanwhile, the police sought the aid of medical board for an expert opinion on his death based on the autopsy report. The body had 16 wounds including a deep one just above the right eye. It also sustains bruises that might have caused by dragging through the ground. Kevin P. Joseph, 23, was found drowned in Chaliyekkara canal a week back. His wife Neenu, whom he had married disregarding the objections from her family members though not completed formalities, had complained to the Gandhi Nagar police on May 27 that some persons had abducted him and the police failed to take any action to save him.

Policemen not accused

In an apparent move to save the face of tainted cops in Kevin murder, Kochi Range IG Vijay Sakare on Sunday said they would not be made accused as it was just dereliction of duty. The policemen will not be accused in the case. They are neither involved in the murder nor the conspiracy, but there was a lapse in their duty Mr Sakare said. ASI T.M. Biju and civil police officer Ajaya Kumar from Gandhi Nagar police station were arrested for accepting a bribe from the accused in Kevin murder case and were given bail by a court.The meeting is being called after RBI governor Urjit Patel said the Central Bank did not have adequate powers to deal with public sector banks. (Representational Image)

New Delhi: Top officials of both public and private banks will on Monday, brief a parliamentary panel on the issue of mounting Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and banking frauds.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance headed by Veerappa Moily has called the Indian Banks' Association officials to appear before it on Monday.

The association has top officials of all the major banks in the country as its member.

As per a Lok Sabha bulletin, the panel will be briefed on the issue of rising NPAs and other bank-related matters.

Members of the panel said recent bank frauds will also be discussed.

The meeting is being called after RBI governor Urjit Patel said the Central Bank did not have adequate powers to deal with public sector banks.

The panel has also called Patel for a briefing on the same issue later this month.

The committee was earlier briefed by Financial Services Secretary Rajiv Kumar.

Earlier, bankers appearing before a different parliamentary panel had said the 180-day resolution plan for NPAs under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) was not an adequate window.

They had also suggested the emphasis should be on restructuring the stressed assets and that referring cases for resolution under the IBC should be the last option.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who is also a member of the committee, is likely to attend the meeting.

Gross NPAs of state-owned banks had crossed Rs 7.77 lakh crore at the end of December 2017, according to official data.Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu rapped the BJP-led Union government for failing to implement the provisions in the AP Reorganisation Act. Talking at the Nava Nirmana Deeksha on Saturday, Mr Naidu said that the Centre spent a whopping Rs 1 lakh crores for Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project which is non-viable but was not showing interest in Vizag and Vijayawada metro projects, citing viability issues.

He also questioned as to why Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan started criticising the TD government after the ruling party snapped ties with the NDA and alleged that the YSRC has a clandestine understanding with the BJP. He said that instead of showing interest in extending a hand to Andhra Pradesh which had suffered and meted injustice due to irrational state bifurcation, the Prime Minister was showing special interest towards his home state Gujarat and Dholera city.

The Chief Minister said that while the Union government was not coming forward to fund Vizag- Chennai Industrial Corridor, special incentives are being given to Delhi-Mumbai industrial Corridor that goes through Modis Gujarat.

He added that both the Union government and BJP national president Amit Shah were telling blatant lies as the state government had submitted utilisation certificates of the Central funds to the Union government and also the details of funds given for the new capitals construction. Mr Naidu said that only `1,500 crore have been released by the Centre for the new capital against `2,500 crore as being claimed by the BJP leaders. He said that `1,000 crore was released for Guntur and Vijayawada cities.

Mr Naidu also said that though the State government had come forward to offer the required land and iron ore mines in Obulapuram, the Centre was not ready to set up a steel plant in Kadapa. He also found fault with the Centre for asking the state government to provide `4,000 crore as viability gap funding to set up Greenfield crude oil refinery in the state. He added that there was no progress on the proposed Dugarajapatnam port.

He said that farmers in 11 states have been protesting against the Centre for their anti-people policies. He added that minorities/SCs and STs were not safe in the country.

Naidu said that after snapping ties with the NDA, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan had started criticising the TD government. He added that Pawan Kalyan has been provoking people in north Andhra. He questioned as to why Pawan Kalyan never raised his voice during the states bifurcation.Srinagar: Kashmirs Chief Muslim cleric and prominent separatist leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Saturday said the incidents in which Kashmiri youth have been killed or injured in the use of force by security forces do not augur well for the Centres reported plan to hold dialogue with separatist leadership and Pakistan.

Nobody is against (holding) dialogue. We also favour resolution of all issues through peaceful talks. But you need to create atmosphere conducive for such an engagement, he said adding that the killing of Srinagar youth after he was over ran by a CRPF vehicle on Friday and other incident of violence and reprisals involving the Army and other security forces reported from various parts of the Valley during past few days will not be any helpful.

While speaking to this newspaper, the Mirwaiz said, Before you wish to hold talks you need to create a favourable atmosphere for it. Today Kashmiri youth are being targeted with bullets and pellets and now you have started killing them by running your vehicles over them. Talks can be held but only when you change the policy of using military might to suppress the voice of people in Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier during the day on Saturday, Union Minister of State at the PMO, Dr. Jitendra Singh had claimed that militancy in Jammu and Kashmir is in its last stage as 600 militants have been killed during the present government's decisive actions.

The decisive actions that the government has taken... 600 militants have been killed during the period, and this is much higher than the number of militants killed during the UPA-I and UPA-II (governments), Mr. Singh who represents Udhampur constituency of J&K in Lok Sabha told reporters in Jammu.

Asked if the conditional ceasefire announced by the Centre during the Muslim fasting month of Ramzan will be followed by talks with separatist leadership and Pakistan, he said that the government will take a decision which is in the interest of the country. He also said that the government is, in fact, willing to talk to everybody who wishes to talk to it. Everybody is welcome to talk. Nobody has said that we are going to send an invitation to the separatists. Anybody, any Indian citizen, is welcome to meet me.

Elaborating, he said that he had met as many as 45 delegations in Jammu and 70 to 75 in Srinagar and "Nobody has been barred from coming and meeting me. He added that Home Minister Rajnath Singh has also said that anybody is welcome to meet him.

Meanwhile, firebrand independent MLA and leader of Awami Itehad Party (AIP) Engineer Rashid has alleged that the security forces are not interested in Ramzan ceasefire and hence are trying to sabotage it. He asked the Centre to come clean over the issue. The horrible incident at Nowhatta involving CRPF personnel and resulting into the death of 21-year-old Qaiser Ahmed and injuries to his friend Muhammad Younis has exposed who wants to sabotage the so-called ceasefire(sic), he said.

Mr. Rasheed in a statement issued here on Saturday also said The government must answer if there was no deployment around Jamia Masjid area on Friday what compelled CRPF vehicle to enter the mob and provoke the youth who were peacefully protesting against the desecration of the Grand Mosque at the hands of security forces few days back. He added, It is unfortunate that the national media is projecting just one side of the story and trying to prove that the mob attacked the CRPF vehicle.

He said that the CRPF personnel should have kept in mind that people were very angry and furious not only in Nowhatta area but entire Kashmir after forces had desecrated Jamia Masjid on May 25. It was a wise decision not to deploy forces around Jamia Masjid but yet again the black sheep entered the mob just to provoke and find an excuse to display their brutal power. The same CRPF vehicle had minutes before the Nowhatta incident had hit a man near Khanyar, he said.

He alleged that running vehicles over protesters has become a new operation by security forces and it seems that they are copying Israelis who do such disgraceful inhuman acts in occupied Palestine.

He said, On the one hand, the security agencies are claiming high moral ground over ceasefire issue but, on the other, they from south to north are carrying routine operations without giving them hype or justifying them with lame excuses.

He further said that the Army needs to come clean over its claim of an encounter in which two persons claimed to be militants were killed in Qaziabad forest area of frontier Kupwara district two days ago. Not only the locals have reservations about the authenticity of the encounter, many claim that they could hear the cries of the deceased people before being shot. Army must reveal the identity of the slain men and also explain why their bodies were buried some 60 kilometres away from the encounter site.Prime Minister Modi told the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that India would work with ASEAN to promote a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. (Photo: Twitter/@MEAIndia)

Singapore/New Delhi: Almost lost in the din of the upcoming US-North Korea summit and fresh tension between Washington and Beijing last week, India cemented its diplomatic and security ties across Southeast Asia in a clear challenge to China.

It's not clear just how far New Delhi will take these relationships, given years of promise, and a general election due in 11 months that could be a distraction for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. And if India is already rattling China, it won't want to spark open confrontation.

But PM Modi took several concrete foreign policy and security steps in Southeast Asia in recent days.

He signed an agreement with Indonesia to develop a port in the city of Sabang that would overlook the western entrance to the Strait of Malacca, one of the world's busiest waterways, and agreed on a pact with Singapore on logistical support for naval ships, submarines and military aircraft during visits.

The Prime Minister also flew to Kuala Lumpur for a late-scheduled call on Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who won last month's general election, effectively cementing ties with three of the most influential Southeast Asian nations.

On Friday, Prime Minister Modi told the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Asia's premier defence forum, that India would work with the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) to promote a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

"We will work with them, individually or in formats of three or more, for a stable and peaceful region," he said in the keynote speech at the forum.

Several delegates, including US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, voiced support.

At the end of the forum on Sunday, Singapore Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said: "I am sure many countries are delighted that India has indicated its firm commitment to the region."

China Cool

The term "Indo-Pacific" has grown in usage across diplomatic and security circles in the United States, Australia, India and Japan in recent years, shorthand for a broader and democratic-led region in place of "Asia-Pacific", which some people have said places China too firmly at the centre.

In a nod to India's growing regional stature, the US military's Pacific Command in Hawaii formally changed its name to the US Indo-Pacific Command in a ceremony on Wednesday.

Despite an outward show of friendship between China and India and PM Modi's comments about the strong relations between them, Beijing gave a distinctly cool response to his strategy.

The state-owned Global Times warned in an editorial last week: "If India really seeks military access to the strategic island of Sabang, it might wrongfully entrap itself into a strategic competition with China and eventually burn its own fingers."

Senior Colonel Zhao Xiaozhou, a research fellow at the Institute of War Studies Academy of Military Sciences of the People's Liberation Army, told reporters on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue that PM Modi "made some dedicated comments on what he thought of the Indo-Pacific concept".

He did not elaborate but the Global Times quoted him as saying: "The Indo-Pacific strategy, and the quasi-alliance between the US, Japan, India and Australia will not last long."

Wider Footprint

Indian foreign ministry officials said there was a strong element of self-interest in New Delhi's efforts to secure open access to the Malacca Strait, since it carries about 60 per cent of its foreign trade.

But India's intended footprint looks to be wider. Late last month, three Indian warships staged exercises with the Vietnamese navy for the first time in the South China Sea, which is claimed almost wholly by China.

Vietnamese submariners are trained in India, while the two sides have significantly increased intelligence sharing and are exploring advanced weapons sales.

To the west, India signed an agreement for access to the port of Duqm on Oman's southern coast, during a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year. Under the agreement, media reports said, the Indian Navy will be able to use the port for logistics and support, allowing it to sustain long-term operations in the western Indian Ocean.

In January, India finalised a logistics exchange arrangement with France under which it can use French military facilities in the Indian Ocean.

Analysts said a more assertive India would answer concerns in Southeast Asia about expanding Chinese influence in the region and a fear that the United States was disengaging.

The United States' trade spat with China and a perceived U-turn in its foreign policy as it pursues peace with North Korea had shaken many assumptions in the region, they said.

"There is some pressure (in ASEAN) for diversification of security relationships, taking insurances," said C Raja Mohan, director of the Institute of South Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore.

"An active India then actually fits into this situation."

But although PM Modi has started strongly, it was not clear how well his strategy would be sustained, he added.

"Implementation has always been a major challenge for India. (PM Modi is) struggling to improve the capacity of Delhi to do things outside borders. There's been some advance but that is a structural challenge that will remain."Patil (69) had been the minister in the previous Siddaramiah government. (Photo: ANI)

Bengaluru: Karnataka North Congress working President SR Patil on Sunday tendered his resignation on moral grounds owing to party's performance in recent assembly elections in the state.

Patil has sent his resignation letter to Congress President Rahul Gandhi.

The party high command Gandhi is yet to respond to Patil's resignation.

Patil (69) had been the minister in the previous Siddaramiah government. He served as the Minister for Infrastructure, information technology, biotechnology, science and technology, planning and statistics in the state government.The violation comes nearly a week after DGMOs of both countries agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in 'letter and spirit'. (Representational Image)

Jammu: The latest attack on Indian forward points by the Pakistani forces, in which two BSF jawans were killed on Sunday, has yet again proved that Islamabad said one thing and did another, a senior official said.

Inspector General of Border Security Force (BSF), Jammu frontier, Ram Awtar also ruled out that sniping or an attack by enemy personnel wearing 'thermal camouflage suits' led to the two casualties on the International Border (IB) in Jammu. Both BSF personnel fell to cross-border firing from Pakistan, he said.

Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey - both residents of Uttar Pradesh - were killed and 13 civilians injured in unprovoked and indiscriminate firing by the Pakistani rangers in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district on Sunday, officials said.

The violation comes nearly a week after DGMOs of both countries agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".

Also Read: India, Pak DGMOs hold talks, mutually agree on no ceasefire violations

Awtar said the ceasefire violation by Pakistan after the recent DGMO level talks between New Delhi and Islamabad again proved that the neighbouring country's words did not match its deeds. It is saying something but doing something else. The latest incident proved it once again, he said.

Awtar said the BSF was strictly implementing the decision taken at the DGMO level by the two countries last week.

Also Read: 2 BSF personnel killed in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in J&K's Akhnoor

Suddenly, Pakistan started firing at around 1:15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed, he said referring to the latest incident. It was targeted firing on forward duty points by Pakistan, he added.

Talking to reporters after the wreath-laying ceremony of the deceased personnel at the force headquarters in Jammu, the senior BSF officer said the casualties were not the result of sniping but of sudden cross-border firing from Pakistan.

We have strongly responded and in the coming days we will come to know about the damage suffered by Pakistan in the retaliatory action, he said.

He also said the BSF did not target civilian locations but Pakistani forces did.

We only targeted the locations that targeted us but Pakistan, on the other hand, started targeting civilian areas of Pragwal and Kanachak since wee hours resulting in civilian casualties and damage to civil property, Awtar said.

Asked about rumours suggesting the casualties were caused by personnel wearing 'thermal camouflage suits' to avoid detection, he said I don't think something like that happened in this case.

There is a need to study this case thoroughly. After every incident we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well, the BSF IG said.

Earlier on Sunday, the bodies of two slain personnel were brought to the BSF headquarters where the wreath ceremony was held to bid farewell to them.

State power minister Sunil Sharma and former health minister Bali Baghat joined senior BSF, police and civil officers to pay tributes to the slain personnel whose bodies were later sent to their hometowns in Uttar Pradesh.

Power minister Sharma warned Pakistan to desist from such activities or get ready to be wiped out from the face of the earth.

This time the central government is very determined and our message to Pakistan is to either change or get ready to be wiped out, the power minister said.

He saluted the bravery of the security personnel and said there is tolerance level and India has shown much patience. I think the time has come we should teach Pakistan a lesson for its misadventures.

He also lauded border residents for braving frequent Pakistan shelling and said the time was not far when they will get rid of this menace.

Though it is the domain of the centre, defence ministry and defence strategists, we understand that we are not going to tolerate the killings anymore. We are making our efforts to normalize the situation but they are showing desperation and hurling grenades and firing on the borders, he said.

India would not be cowed down by such actions, he asserted.Nipah Virus has claimed 16 lives in Kerala since traces of the virus were first reported from Kozhikode towards the end of May. (Photo: File)

Kozhikode: Samples of fruit bats that were sent from Kozhikode to Bhopal's National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) on May 30 were tested negative for Nipah Virus.

Earlier, samples of cattle, goats, pigs, and insect bats that were sent were also tested negative.

Nipah Virus has claimed 16 lives in Kerala since traces of the virus were first reported from Kozhikode towards the end of May.

Earlier, the Kerala state health department had issued an advisory for people travelling to the state, urging them to be extra cautious while visiting Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad and Kannur districts.

A similar note of caution was also issued by the Himachal Pradesh health ministry after more than 18 dead bats were discovered in the premises of a government school in Nahan.

For those unversed, the World Health Organisation (WHO) defines Nipah virus as one that is spread by fruit bats which cause communicable disease and is fatal for both animals and humans.

The symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, drowsiness, respiratory illness, disorientation and mental confusion.

According to the WHO, these signs and symptoms can progress to coma within 24-48 hours.

On a related note, schools, colleges, and other educational institutions in Kozhikode will remain closed till June 12 owing to the virus outbreak.

Moreover, aforementioned institutions in Wayanad, Kannur, and Malappuram districts would remain closed till June 5, as opposed to the initial reopening on June 1.

However, schools and colleges in other districts have reopened on Thursday after summer vacations.Ghana has assured the government and people of Guinea Bissau of its support in their upcoming elections slated for November this year.



The assurance was given by President Akufo-Addo when the Prime Minister of that country, Aristide Gomes and a delegation called on him at the Jubilee House in Accra on Thursday.



During the discussions, Aristide made an appeal to Ghana and members of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) to help provide the needed support for their upcoming elections since the country was still struggling to come out of the doldrums.



President Akufo-Addo could not but assured him of his Ghanas support in strengthening democracy in Guinea Bissau.



He thus promised to push the agenda for support for that countrys election at the next ECOWAS and Africa Union summit meeting, giving his word saying, Im confident that something would be done.



That, he said was because everybody is encouraged by you and the manner in which you have come; we recognize that this is a historic opportunity to try and bring this long standing crisis to a closure. So whatever be the case, you can count on me, you can count on Ghana for us to make a strong case as well as the post electoral situation as far as the ECOMOG is concerned.



President Akufo-Addo stressed the need for a restructuring of the security forces in Guinea Bissau which he considered as one of the major matters to be addressed.



His reason was that we cannot have a democracy unless the elected leaders of the country [control] the security, the armed forces, citing the case of Ghana where even though he is not a soldier but is recognized as the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces as example.



Its just to make the point about the supremacy of the elected leaders of the country over these security agencies; so we have all to help you They can count on us; whatever we can do to assist to bring about a positive development in Guinea Bissau we are going to do it

Source: Daily Guide









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Featured VideoBhubaneshwar: As the BJD and BJP in Odisha blame each other for the ongoing Mahanadi river water crisis, the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Niranjan Patnaik on Saturday said that his party would shortly call for a state-wide bandh for the cause of Mahanadi.

Mr Patnaik, while speaking to reporters here, accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of supporting Chhattisgarh government which has been unilaterally buildings barrages on the Mahanadi, restricting water flow to Odisha, a co-basin state located downstream the river.

It was expected that Prime Minister in his Cuttack meeting on May 26 would assure people of Odisha that he would ask Chhattisgarh government to stop constructions on the river. But no such assurance came from him. The NDA government at the Centre is blindingly supporting Chhattisgarh as it ruled by BJP. We will shortly call for a statewide bandh. The date for the bandh call will be announced soon, said Mr Patnaik.

Turning heat on the Odishas ruling BJD headed by chief minister Naveen Patnaik, the OPCC president said it did nothing to protect the interests of the people of the state till 2015 when Chhattisgarh government was busy in raising barrages on the Mahanadi and was now shedding crocodile tears.

Reacting to OPCC president Niranjan Patnaiks statements, BJD spokesperson Pratap Deb stated, It seems that Congress changes its ideologies whenever there is a change of guard. The party under the leadership of Niranjan Patnaiks predecessor Prasad Harichandan was completely mum on the issue. Now that the BJD is raising the Mahanadi issue very strongly, - the Congress has just jumped on the bandwagon to reap some political dividends.

BJP spokesperson Golak Mohapatra on the other hand stated that all the barrages and dam projects on Mahanadi were taken up by Chhattisgarh during UPA regime.

Congress is the walking stick of ruling BJD. It was only after NDA-led BJP government came to power in 2014 that it wrote to Odisha whether Chhattisgarh had obtained approvals or not. Congress should first answer the people of the State, said Mr Mohapatra.Former president Pranab Mukherjee had earlier accepted the RSS invite to be the chief guest at the event on June 7. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: As the date for the valedictory function at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur inches closer, former president Pranab Mukherjee gave a firm reply on his decision to attend the event.

The ex-president had earlier accepted the RSS invite to be the chief guest at the event on June 7.

The 82-year-old former President was quoted as saying to Bengali daily Anandabazar Patrika, "Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur. I have received several letters, requests and phone calls, but I haven't responded to anyone yet."

However, many leaders from the Congress had earlier asked him to reconsider his decision including senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.

The others who tried to tell Mukherjee to reconsider his meet were Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, former Union Minister CK Jaffer Sharief and the party's Bengal unit leader Adhir Choudhury.

Former MP and Delhi Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said as a Congress leader and minister, Mukherjee has spoken about the RSS and the BJP many times on various issues and dubbed it as "bad" and "worst" outfit, which is "communal" and "anti-national".

Sandeep Dikshit is the son of former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit.

However, RSS leader Rakesh Sinha said that Mukherjee's acceptance to attend the event reflects that there can be dialogue on vital issues and adversaries are not necessarily enemies.

Earlier, Union minister Nitin Gadkari had said, "The RSS is not Pakistan's ISI. The RSS is an organisation of nationalists."

"Mukherjee's acceptance of the invitation is a good start. Political untouchability is not good," Gadkari added.At least 10 persons, including policemen, have also been injured in the violence, which has triggered demands that the government take action against alleged illegal settlers. (Photo: PTI)

Shillong: Curfew continued in parts of Shillong for the second day on Saturday as the Army conducted flag marches in its disturbed areas and rescued around 500 people following night-long violence and arson, officials said.

During the violence, a mob torched a shop, a house and damaged at least five vehicles in Shillong, besides injuring a senior police officer, they said.

The curfew, which was imposed at 4 am on Friday in 14 localities under Lumdiengjri police station and Cantonment Beat House areas, continues, and night curfew would be clamped in the entire city for the second consecutive night, East Khasi Hills district Deputy Commissioner P S Dkhar said.

"The Army has been kept on standby and night curfew will continue for the second night tonight from 10 pm to 5 am," Dkhar told PTI.

Requisitioned by the state government, Army troops held flag marches and rescued about 500 people, including 200 women and children, Defence spokesperson Ratnakar Singh said.

General Officer Commanding 101 Area Lt Gen D S Ahuja visited the rescued people at the Army cantonment.

Superintendent of Police (City) Stephan Rynjah was injured on Friday night after he was hit by a rod.

He was admitted to the Shillong Civil Hospital, a police officer said.

At least 10 persons, including policemen, have also been injured in the violence, which has triggered demands that the government take action against alleged illegal settlers.

State police personnel were attacked by stone pelters in the Motphran area of the city.

Teargas shells were used to disperse rioters but people in other parts of the city mistook them for police firing, the officer said.

The clashes had begun after a bus handyman was beaten up allegedly by a group of residents of Them Metor area on Thursday afternoon.

Trouble escalated when rumours spread on social media that the handyman had succumbed to injuries, prompting a group of bus drivers to converge at Them Metor.

The police had to fire teargas shells to disperse them, officials said.

The handyman and three injured persons were taken to a hospital from where they were released after being administered first aid.

Four persons, accused of being involved in the assault of three local boys, have been arrested, they said, adding that 11 others have been picked up for attacking the police.

Dkhar said the administrations is concerned with the spreading of rumours that has affected normalcy in the affected areas.

Suspension of Internet services has been extended by 24 hours till Sunday afternoon to prevent rumour-mongering, he said.

"The affected areas are still tense but under control," Dkhar said, adding that life is normal in other parts of the city and examinations scheduled for tomorrow will not be affected.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who chaired a high-level meeting on Friday, had appealed for calm and urged the people to help bring back normalcy in Shillong.

Meanwhile, several groups including the Khasi Students Union, the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) and the Hynniewtrep Youth Council demanded that those involved in the assault of local boys be punished and the illegal settlers at Them Metor evicted.

"Them Metor has become a den for anti-nationals and it is sad that several governments in the past have not taken initiatives to evict them and provide them space somewhere else," said FKJGP president Wellbirth Rani.Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the violence that broke out on Thursday was a local issue and not communal in nature. (Photo: File/ANI)

Shillong: Curfew in pockets of Shillong was relaxed for seven hours on Sunday, even as Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the violence that broke out on Thursday was a local issue and not communal in nature.

A team of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders from Delhi visited the Meghalaya capital in view of the clashes between two communities leaving at least 10 people injured.

The district authorities of the East Khasi Hills relaxed the curfew from 8 am to 3 pm to allow churchgoers to attend Sunday services, officials said.

"The problem is very much in a particular locality, on a particular issue. It just happened that two particular communities were involved, but it's not a communal thing," Sangma told a press conference in Shillong.

The clashes in parts of Shillong were given a communal colour by vested groups and a section of the media outside the state, he added.

A number of those arrested in connection with the violence are from outside East Khasi Hills district, in which Shillong falls, and they were given alcohol and cash by some people, the chief minister said.

The administration exercised restraint in the first 48 hours and met leaders of civil society organisations to ascertain if their members were involved.

"We came to know there is a large number of people who have come here from West Khasi Hills district and many of those nabbed by the police were from outside Shillong," he said.

The administration and the police are on the job to protect every individual, said Sangma, who chaired a meeting of officials of the home department and Director General of Police S B Singh earlier on Sunday.

Earlier, a SAD team, including MLA Manjinder Singh Sirsa and party's Delhi unit president Manjit Singh, met the residents of the violence-affected area. The SAD team also called on the chief minister.

"I am happy to inform you that the delegation was very happy with the response of the state government to ensure that all citizens are given protection," he said.

Officials told news agency PTI that the curfew was promulgated in 14 localities under the jurisdictions of the Lumdiengjri police station and the Cantonment police beat house resumed at 3 pm.

Night curfew will continue in the entire city from 10 pm till 5 am, and internet and messaging services will continue to remain suspended, the official said.Port Louis/New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's VIP flight from Trivandrum to Mauritius going incommunicado for around 14 minutes has been confirmed by authorities, however, they insist that it would not comprise a 'mid air scare' .

The Mauritius Air traffic control (ATC) room had activated INCERFA, the code used by the aircraft controllers during a phase of uncertainty, when Swaraj's plane crossed over from Indian air space to Male Air Traffic Control, Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed.

INCERFA was activated without allowing a lapse of a stipulated time period of 30 minutes since the aircraft last contacted the ATC. The authorities say Male ATC erred on the side of caution as an Indian Air Force Flight IFC31 was carrying a person with a VIP status.

Swaraj departed from Trivandrum at 2:08 pm for Mauritius. However, IFC 31 could not contact Mauritius ATC after entering its airspace.

A contact was only established at 4:44 pm when the aircraft changed over from Indian airspace to Male ATC.

Later at 4:58 pm, the flight came in contact with the Mauritius ATC and subsequently made a safe landing. However, when pressed further, sources in the AAI did not rule out a failure of onboard communication systems in the IAF plane carrying Swaraj.

The external affairs minister on Sunday had a brief stopover in Mauritius during her visit to South Africa to take stock of preparations for upcoming Vishwa Hindu Sammelan in August.

Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Ministry, took to his Twitter handle to inform about the same.

Taking stock of the preparations for the Vishwa Hindi Sammelan in August 2018! EAM @SushmaSwaraj and Minister of Education of Mauritius, Leela Devi Dookun visited the Swami Vivekananda International Convention Centre (SVICC), the main venue of the World Hindi Conference. pic.twitter.com/qNJcQanhJQ  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) June 3, 2018

Eleventh Vishwa Hindu Sammelan (World Hindi Conference) is set to take place at Mauritius' Port Louis.

Earlier on April 11, Mauritius Education Minister Leela Devi Dookhun Luchoomun and Swaraj released the logo of 11th World Hindi Conference and launched its website as well.Minister K.T. Rama Rao pays tributes to Telangana martrys during the fourth state Formation Day celebrations in Rajanna Sircilla district on Saturday (Photo: DC)

Nizamabad: Telangana State Formation Day was celebrated with aplomb in Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts on Saturday. Nizamabad and Kamareddy district headquarters wore a festive look as government offices were illuminated with colourful lights.

The National Flag was hoisted on the occasion to mark the 4th Formation Day of the state.

In Nizamabad, agriculture minister Pocharam Srinivas Reddy paid rich tributes to Telangana martyrs while attending the celebrations as chief guest at the Police Parade Grounds. He received the Guard of Honour from the forces.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Srinivas Reddy said that newly formed Telangana state was rapidly moving forward under the leadership of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao. It is the good fortunate of people to get a Telangana movement leader as the Chief Minister, he said. Sacrifices of Telangana martyrs will be remembered forever, he said.

District collector R.M.R. Rao, in-charge CP N. Swetha, Nizamabad urban MLA Bigala Ganesh Gupta, MLC V.G. Goud, Zilla Parishad chairman Dafedar Raju, TS REDCO chairman S.A. Aleem and others were present.

Students presented cultural programmes on the occasion. Government departments displayed tableaux highlighting the developmental works and welfare schemes.

In Kamareddy, Government whip Gampa Govardhan hoisted the National Flag on the occasion. District collector N. Satyanarayana and others were present.

Best performance awards presented to the employees and others on the occasion.

Meanwhile, various political parties and other organisations celebrated the fourth Telangana Formation Day in the two districts.KOZHIKODE: Terrorised at the Nipah outbreak, none dared to roam around at the outpatient wing of Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (KMCH) which remained deserted. It required wit and spirit of selflessness of a group of socially responsible youngsters who imparted assistance of all sorts to ensure immediate treatment facilities. Though the hospital administration sought the help of PWD employees it turned out to be a nutshell attempt.

The hospital required setting up of isolation wards, oxygen cylinder supply, safeguarding windows, doors and rooms; painting, fixation of aluminum doors, air conditioning and electrification. The hospital administration, superintendent, medical college Principal and doctors remained confused at the need of the hour, that is, to facilitate the hospital within four days.

With the support and encouragement of Dr Jayesh Kumar and Dr K.M. Kuriakose, a group of youngsters- Siraj, Aashib, Rasheed, Aasif, Riyas, Mahmood, and Vijayan- of Fight for Life foundation voluntarily completed the work wearing masks and gloves in the most vulnerable and disease prone area. The work was completed in seven Intensive Care Units and thirty eight rooms. The panicky condition sought remedy with their courageous intervention of preparing over fifty rooms especially for Nipah patients.

Dr. Jayesh Kumar called me over phone last Friday at 9 30 p.m. to reach Medical College immediately for the issue. Even a few hospital staff discouraged us. Earlier workers left it halfway through and our family members were really concerned. From Saturday evening to Monday morning we worked in full swing with constant support of doctors, said Siraj, a Fight for life volunteer.Following the trend, the Customs department has asked all units to monitor foreign passengers.

Hyderabad: After Indian nationals passengers, Customs officials are monitoring international passengers at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport following inputs that foreigners were being roped in to smuggle gold into the country.

The number of cases of international passengers being caught while smuggling gold at various airports in the country is on the rise. Following the trend, the Customs department has asked all units to monitor foreign passengers.

Last month, about 30 nationals of Turkmenistan including 22 women were held at New Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport while they were attempting to smuggle gold worth Rs 6 crore into the country.

At other airports too, Customs officials have caught Indonesians, Sri Lankans, Kenyans and Iranians when they were attempting to smuggle gold. The trend of foreigners being roped in to smuggle gold picked up since last year. Syndicates of smugglers prefer foreign nationals, assuming that the customs officials hardly suspect them as they come on tourist visas, said a senior Customs official.

Following specific inputs, a few foreigners were nabbed at airports after which an advisory was issued to keep a tab of them too, he added. The Air Intelligence Unit of the Customs Department collects information about persons who are carrying gold and apprehends them mainly at airports.

It is not that our operations are confined to airports or seaports. On specific information, we even tail the suspects to hotels and public places with the help of local law enforcement agencies, said another official.

Another official of the customs department said that the smugglers might be hiring foreign nationals for the task of delivering the smuggled gold as they are not on the radar of Customs officials.

There is also a chance that they are not aware of the law and could be duped into transporting the gold to other countries illegally.An villager inspects a hole made in a wall of a residential house by a mortar shell firing allegedly from Pakistan, at Gol pattan in Kanachack sector near Jammu on Sunday. (Photo: AP)

Srinagar: Less than a week after the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in letter and spirit, active hostilities again broke out between the border guards of two countries early on Sunday.

BSFs Inspector General (Jammu Frontier) Ram Awtar said, It was not a sniping, but ceasefire violation, in which two of our jawans sustained injuries and later attained martyrdom. We have given a strong and befitting reply, but so far the damage across the border could not be ascertained, he said. He added, We did not target the civilian areas across the border, but only retaliated to cross border firing. Replying questions, he said there were no fresh inputs of attempt of infiltration amid ceasefire violation by Pakistani border guards.

A report from Jammu said that the exchanges of small and medium weapons and mortar guns involving as many as ten BSF BoPs are going on since Sunday morning. On the Indian side about 35 villages have been affected in fresh firing and shelling, the report said.

It is not yet known if there have been any casualties on the Pakistani side too.

On May 29, the DGMOs of the two countries had agreed to fully implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in letter and spirit forthwith to stop border skirmishes along their borders in J&K. The hotline contact was initiated by the Pakistani DGMO.

After the announcement and guns falling silent, the jubilant border dwellers in Jammu region, both on the IB and the LoC, had started returning to their homes which had been abandoned by them amid intense clashes between the facing troops in May. On the Pakistani side too, the hope that they would be allowed to live normal life again had rekindled among border residents.

According to the Indian officials, the Pakistani firing and shelling which had continued for nine days in May in Arnia, RS Pura, Ramgarh, Samba and Hiranagar sectors of the IB had claimed the lives of two BSF men and ten civilians whereas scores others were wounded. With these deaths, they had said, the toll in Pakistani firing during ceasefire violations along the IB and the LoC in the State had risen to 46 including 20 Army and BSF personnel.Hyderabad: The state government is mulling over the possibility of recommending that the Centre invoke the provisions of the Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act (the Benami Act), that came into force in November 2016, to attach the properties of landowners who are not coming forward to receive new pattadar passbooks or Rythu Bandhu cheques.

During the recent purification of revenue land records undertaken by the government from September 2017 to January 2018, it was found that there are 57,33,025 land holdings (survey numbers).

Out of total 57,33,025 land owners, 52,73,064 submitted Aadhaar details. There is still a backlog of 4,59,961.

In a recent review meeting, officials brought this issue to the notice of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao.

Officials told him that about 10 per cent of the land owners could be NRIs residing abroad who could not submit Aadhaar details, but the rest 90 per cent could be benamis.

They said Aadhaar linkage could not be achieved only in the districts surrounding Hyderabad where land values are higher. This gives rise to suspicion that the lands might be held on benami names.

Mr Chandrasekhar Rao told officials to give a final date of June 20 and then write to the Centre seeking inquiry whether they were benami properties.Consensus Prime Minister of Guinea Bissau, Aristide Gomes, has made a passionate appeal to President Akufo Addo, to do all he can to persuade his colleague Heads of State within the ECOWAS sub-region and the rest of Africa to as a matter of urgency, assist Guinea Bissau out of her political crisis and also to hold national elections come November.



The Guinea Bissau leader made the request Thursday evening, 31st of May, 2018, when he paid a courtesy call on President Akufo Addo, at the Jubilee House as part of his West African sub-regional tour to seek help for his country.



In his address, Prime Minister Gomes said his country needs a total of nine million Euros (9m) in order to conduct its elections in November this year. So far, the state has been able to raise two (2) million Euro of the needed amount.



He therefore requested of President Akufo Addo to compel ECOWAS to contribute 2.5 million Euro towards the elections. Additionally, the Consensus Prime Minister asked West African leaders to maintain peacekeeping troops currently serving in his country. He observed that their continued presence in his Guinea Bissau is critical for the peace of the state.



President Akufo Addo



President Akufo Addo in his response said he and his colleagues consider Guinea Bissau as a very important state within West Africa and therefore supporting her out of its current political challenges is a very important duty. The President to this end, indicated that he will certainly champion efforts to get all the help Guinea Bissau needs beginning this Saturday when the President of ECOWAS visits him. He also assured that at the next ECOWAS Heads of State meeting and African Union Summit coming off in a few weeks, matters concerning Guinea Bissau will be thoroughly dealt with.



Prime Minister Aristide Gomes



Aristide Gomes became Guinea-Bissaus Prime Minister on Monday, 16th of April, 2018, in what President Jose Mario Vaz said would put a definitive end to years of political crisis in the small West African nation. Prime Minister Gomes who served as Prime Minister of the former Portuguese colony from 2005 to 2007, is thus Consensus Prime Minister of Guinea Bissau.



Gomes is tasked with leading Guinea-Bissau to fresh presidential and parliamentary elections set for November, 2018. Guinea-Bissau has been in the grip of a power struggle since August 2015, when President Vaz sacked his then Prime Minister, Domingos Simoes Pereira. Gomes, 63, succeeded Augusto Antonio Artur Da Silva, who was named in late January. Prime Minister Gomes was accompanied by Guinea Bissaus Foreign Affairs Minister, Yoad Botiam Co.

Source: kasapafm









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Featured VideoPolice and civilians carry a man who was injured in the heavy shelling from Pakistan to the Government Medical College Hospital in Jammu on Sunday. (Photo: AFP)

Srinagar: Less than a week after the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in letter and spirit, active hostilities again broke out between the border guards of two countries early Sunday.

Two Border Security Force (BSF) jawans were killed and seven civilian injured in ceasefire violation of Pakistani border guards in Pargwal sector of Akhnoor area of Jammu and Kashmir, the officials in Jammu said. Firing and shelling by Pakistani border guards was reported also from neighbouring Kanhachak area.

They said that the Pakistans Punjab Rangers resorted to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing along the International Border (IB)  called Working Boundary (WB) by Islamabad- at around 2 am on Sunday. They targeted a BSF Border Outpost (BoPs) and civilian areas in Pargwal sector of the IB at 2 am, the officials said.

The BSF said that its assistance sub-inspector S.N.Yadav and Constable V.K. Pandey were injured in the Pakistani firing. They were rushed to a nearby medical facility but succumbed soon, a spokesman o the paramilitary force said in Jammu, the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The spokesman added that the BSF retaliated to Pakistani firing effectively and strongly.

BSFs Inspector General (Jammu Frontier) Ram Awtar while commenting on the latest ceasefire violation said that Pakistan has yet again proved that it cannot be trusted upon. As you all know Pakistan never keeps its words. It is not reliable and trustworthy as after DGMOs talks agreeing for ceasefire they have resorted to unprovoked and indiscriminate firing both at our BoPs and civilian areas in Pargwal and Kanhachak areas , he told reporter in Jammu at the sidelines of wreath laying ceremony of the two slain jawans.

It was not a sniping, but ceasefire violation, in which two of our jawans sustained injuries and later attained martyrdom. We have given a strong and befitting reply, but so far the damage across the border could not be ascertained, he said. He added, We did not target the civilian areas across the border, but only retaliated to cross border firing. Replying questions, he said there were no fresh inputs of attempt of infiltration amid ceasefire violation by Pakistani border guards.

A report from Jammu said that the exchanges of small and medium weapons and mortar guns involving as many as ten BSF BoPs are going on since Sunday morning. On the Indian side about 35 villages have been affected in fresh firing and shelling, the report said.

It is not yet known if there have been any casualties on the Pakistani side too. Islamabad has not reacted to the Indian charge, so far.

On May 29, the DGMOs of the two countries had agreed to fully implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in letter and spirit forthwith to stop border skirmishes along their borders in J&K. After weeks of flare up, the two military commanders had reviewed the situation along the Line of Control (LoC) and the IB during a conversation over the special hotline.

The hotline contact was initiated by the Pakistani DGMO.

Following the conversation between Indias DGMO Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan and his Pakistani counterpart Major General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the two armies issued identical statements saying both sides agreed to implement the ceasefire understanding reached between them in November 2003.

After the announcement and guns falling silent, the jubilant border dwellers in Jammu region, both on the IB and the LoC, had started returning to their homes which had been abandoned by them amid intense clashes between the facing troops in May. On the Pakistani side too, the hope that they would be allowed to live normal life again had rekindled among border residents.

According to the Indian officials, the Pakistani firing and shelling which had continued for nine days in May in Arnia, RS Pura, Ramgarh, Samba and Hiranagar sectors of the IB had claimed the lives of two BSF men and ten civilians whereas scores others were wounded. With these deaths, they had said, the toll in Pakistani firing during ceasefire violations along the IB and the LoC in the State had risen to 46 including 20 Army and BSF personnel.

The Pakistan authorities had accused the Indian Army and BSF of violating ceasefire agreement 1,050 times in 2018 alone, resulting into the death of 28 civilians and injuries to 117 others.

The decision to observe the ceasefire agreement and stop cross-border firing was widely welcomed within India and Pakistan and also by some other countries including the US and China.

Beijing had while commending the two countries for it expressed hope that the two neighbours will properly resolve their differences. We commend the positive actions taken by both sides, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying had told media briefing in Beijing on May 31. She had in response to a question said, We hope that both sides could properly resolve their disputes through dialogue and consultation and maintain regional peace and stability.

A day later (June 1) the US also welcomed the decision and said that normalization of relations between the two South Asian neighbours is imperative for peace in the region. State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert had said in a statement on Thursday The US welcomes reports that the militaries of India and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the 2003 ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC). She had added, The normalisation of relations between Pakistan and India is vital to both countries and the region.

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti, has appealed India and Pakistan armies and border guards to hold dialogue again to stop firing at borders as people on both sides are dying.

Ms. Mufti who was among the first who has welcomed the two countries DGMOs decision said that the latest ceasefire violation is unfortunate. It's unfortunate that this has happened even after DGMOs held dialogue. People on both sides of the border are dying. The DGMOs should hold dialogue again. This bloodshed must be brought to an end.Madhya Pradesh State Congress Committee chief Kamal Nath said, 'We've provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list.' (Photo: File/PTI)

Mumbai: The Congress on Sunday claimed that the BJP was involved in mass duplication of voter entries in the electoral rolls of Madhya Pradesh for Assembly election, 2019.

Blaming the BJP-led government in the state for the alleged irregularities in the state voter rolls, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia questioned how the number of voters increased by 40 per cent when the population in the state only increased by 24 per cent in the last 10 years.

This has been done by the BJP. How is it possible that population increased by 24 per cent in 10 years but number of voters increased by 40 per cent? We scrutinised list in all constituencies, 1 voter is registered in 26 lists, there are similar cases in other places too, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia was quoted by news agency ANI as saying.

INC COMMUNIQUE



Memorandum to the Election Commission of India regarding irregularities in the voter rolls in Madhya Pradesh. @INCMP 1/2 pic.twitter.com/THPgeyIxuX  INC Sandesh (@INCSandesh) June 3, 2018

Memorandum to the Election Commission of India regarding irregularities in the voter rolls in Madhya Pradesh. @INCMP 2/2 pic.twitter.com/VD45hhN7v6  INC Sandesh (@INCSandesh) June 3, 2018

Madhya Pradesh State Congress Committee chief Kamal Nath said, We've provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. These names have been deliberately registered in the list. Ye prashasanik laparvaahi nahi prashasanik durupyog hai (This is not an administrative carelessness, but misuse of administration).

The Congress demanded the Election Commission to prepare new electoral rolls after removing all duplicate entries and direct election officers to furnish affidavit and certificate verifying all entries.

The party has also asked the poll panel to take action against all those officers who have breached their official duties and have abetted in the preparation of doctored electoral rolls.Bhopal: Congress leadership in Madhya Pradesh on Saturday began an internal probe to find out source of leakage of the letter written by MP party chief Kamal Nath to AICC president Rahul Gandhi urging him to attend the death anniversary of an OBC leader of the state on June 26 to woo people of the particular communities.

The party leadership here also reportedly sought to ascertain if the letter was leaked to the media intentionally to harm the image of Congress ahead of Assembly elections in the state, due in November this year, sources told this newspaper. The party however preferred to underplay the matter, officially. It is no big issue, party spokesman here Manak Agrawal said.

In an interesting twist to the development, a video went viral in social media on Saturday in which former MP Pradesh Congress Committee chief Arun Yadav was purportedly heard asking a man to share the letter with a person.In April, supporters of Sharad Yadav announced the formation of the Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD), a new political outfit. (Photo: File/PTI)

Bhopal: The rebel group of the Janata Dal (United) led by Sharad Yadav is making efforts to form a "grand alliance" against the BJP in Madhya Pradesh for the year-end Assembly polls.

Sharad Yadav's supporters are trying to bring the Congress, the largest opposition party in the state, on board to put up a united fight against the BJP which is in power in Madhya Pradesh since 2003.

The Congress, out of power in Madhya Pradesh for nearly 15 years, has also expressed its willingness to align with like-minded parties to take on the BJP.

"We are trying hard to form a 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) in Madhya Pradesh with the help of the Congress," Govind Yadav, former president of the state unit of the JD(U) and a confidant of Sharad Yadav, said.

In April, supporters of Sharad Yadav announced the formation of the Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD), a new political outfit. The former Union minister has made it clear he was not yet a member of the new party as his legal claim to represent the JD(U) was still sub-judice.

"To this end, we have already helped two tribal political parties to sink their differences and join hands. The Bharatiya Gondwana Party (BGP) has aligned with the Gondwana Gantantra Party (GGP) for the polls," added.

The BGP is a breakaway faction of the GGP which had won three seats in the 2003 Assembly elections and eaten into the Congress' traditional tribal vote bank, Govind Yadav told news agency PTI.

Both the tribal political parties have formed a coordination committee and decided to fight the elections, slated by the year-end, under the GGP's banner, said GGP national convener Gulzar Singh Markam.

The slipping away of the tribal vote from the Congress had benefited the BJP, which ousted the 10-year-old Digvijay Singh government in 2003, he added.

"We are going to hold a massive tribal meet on June 24 in Jabalpur - from where Sharad Yadav started his political career and become a member of the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1974," Markam said.

"We have invited Sharadji for the meet," he added.

Markam said tribals account for 18 per cent of Madhya Pradesh's population and play a key role in deciding the electoral outcome in a number of segments in the 230-member House.

"Our next move is to unite the Bahujan Sangarsh Dal (BSD), a breakaway faction of the BSP, with the parent party," Govind Yadav said.

"A united BSP had won 11 Assembly seats each in the 1993 and 1998 Assembly polls in the undivided MP," he added.

After BSP leader Phool Singh Baraiya quit in 2003 and formed the BSD, the Mayawati-led party's electoral fortunes nosedived in Madhya Pradesh. Baraiya had served as the state unit chief of the Dalit outfit.

In 2013, the BSP managed to win just four Assembly seats. "We are going to hold a massive rally on June 17 in Bhopal," Baraiya said, adding Sharad Yadav, Dalit leader Prakash Amdekar and BSP founder Kanshi Ram's sister Swarn Kaur have been invited for the function.

Prakash Amdekar, grandson of Dalit icon B R Amdekar, has already accepted our invite, he said. "We, through some people, have sent a request to BSP chief Mayawati to attend the rally," he added.

In the last assembly polls, the BJP had won 165 seats, while the Congress bagged 58. Their vote share was 44.48 per cent and 36.38 per cent, respectively.

The BSP, the SP and the GGP had notched up 6.29 per cent, 1.25 per cent and 1 per cent vote share, respectively.Hubballi: The first shock for the Congress party after the loss in the Assembly poll, in which it saw its tally falling from 122 to 78 seats, came from Bagalkot with senior leader S.R. Patil, tendering his resignation from the post of KPCC working president.

Sources said what made Mr Patil quit was the dissidence in the Bagalkot district Congress unit and the party's debacle in North Karnataka in the Assembly election. He revealed his decision to mediapersons on Sunday though he sent his resignation to AICC president Rahul Gandhi on May 25 itself.

His loyalists claimed that he had to take the decision after coming under pressure from the anti-Siddaramaiah camp for focusing only on Badami to ensure the victory of the former CM in the polls.

Meanwhile, speaking to media persons here on Sunday, Mr Patil asserted that he had quit the top post owning moral responsibility for the defeat of a majority of Congress legislators in the region. Stating that he had skipped the meeting of KPCC office bearers in Bengaluru on Saturday following his resignation, he said he was not lobbying with any leader to seek a ministerial berth in the coalition government.

The Congress had always come to power when the party won more seats in North Karnataka. Therefore, we had invited former CM Siddaramaiah to contest from Badami as we thought this would help the party. It was my moral responsibility to ensure his victory. Therefore, I could not concentrate on other constituencies as I camped in Badami during the election. But the poor performance of the party has forced me to step down from the post of working president", Mr Patil said.

The senior Congress leader had come under pressure from five defeated party candidates in Bagalkot district with some of them publicly expressing their anger against him for not campaigning in their favour. They had accused him of neglecting their constituencies by focusing only on Badami. The defeated Hungund legislator Vijayanand Kashappanavar had even lodged a complaint with the party high command against the leader.

These former legislators had also complained that Patil failed to stop defections and was unable to persuade rebel leaders to withdraw their nominations in Bilagi, Mudhol, Bagalkot, Terdal and Hungund constituencies where the party candidates including former minister Umashri were defeated. Moreover, Patil also failed to retain former Bagalkot MLA P.H. Pujar, who joined the BJP just a week before the elections.

Meanwhile, Congress leaders in Badami claimed that Patil did not take the election in Badami seriously assuming that it would be a cakewalk for Siddaramaiah. He also failed to unite the two factions in the Congress led by B.B. Chimmanakatti and his rival, Dr Devaraj Patil.

This reduced the victory margin of the Congress to around 2,000 votes. S.R. Patil failed to attract the vote bank of the Reddy Lingayat community to which he belongs, in Badami. His over-confidence reduced the victory margin of Siddaramaiah to a great extent, said the Congress leader who was an aspirant for the Badami constituency ticket.

However, the loyalists of Patil urged the party high command not to accept his resignation saying he was not responsible for the defeat of Congress legislators in Bagalkot as they had not invited him for the election campaign.

The Congress high command had appointed S.R. Patil as KPCC working president for North Karnataka in June 2017 to woo the Lingayat votebank which is dominant in the region after succumbing to pressure from Siddaramaiah.

The former IT/BT minister enjoys good influence in the twin districts of Bagalkot and Vijayapura. The 65-year old Congressman was leader of the opposition in the Council when the BJP was in power.Unlike any other government that preceded it, the Narendra Modi regime has had the temerity to treat India as a plaything, and the country is resisting. This is why Modi raj is likely to go out in a dust-haze of infamy. After the Gujarat election late last year, signs of the downfall have been gathering force. The tricks of the plutocracy now appear to work less and less. In the face of every odd, Ahmad Patels election to the Rajya Sabha before the Gujarat Assembly polls had exposed the limits of money power summoned by the devious. This was confirmed in the recent Karnataka state election when not a single Congress or JD(S) MLA switched sides. The lotus wilted that day. Karnatakas BJP leader had asked the governor for seven days to prove his strength in the House, but the governor gave him 15. The hand of the regime was etched large on the blatant and disgraceful plan to manipulate, or the governor  an old faithful from Gujarat  wouldnt have dared. The Supreme Court convened at 2 am to nip the mischief in the bud.

The manner in which the BJP has been run by the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah duo, the party has slowly begun to isolate itself from other political parties, including its own alliance partners. Voters too seem to be giving it the cold shoulder. The BJPs voting percentages are dropping. Soon only a tight knot of the RSS faithful is likely to remain, not much else. We seem to be getting back to the time when the RSS-BJP used to plead with the country not to practise political untouchability against it. People gave them more than one chance to demonstrate that the BJP was a party with a difference, as it loudly claimed.

Since the Atal Behari Vajpayee government had many stakeholders (it was a coalition of as many as 24 parties at one stage), the people gave Mr Modi a clear majority of his own in Parliament so that he may give governance a good shot, but are ruing their mistake. Now the main worry of the people seems to be how best to get the monkey off their back, and they are looking for direct and open political ways to achieve this end. They are making the democratic Opposition move in the direction of joint action against the regime.

It is a shame how things have gone on PM Modis watch. In order to entice the people so that they may elect him as leader with adequate strength in Parliament, the RSS chosen man promised stability and development for all. What he has delivered is the opposite. It is no exaggeration to suggest that the present government  unlike any in the past  has unleashed anarchy. If the government had gone into the hands of the Naxalite bands, it is unlikely that greater chaos may have prevailed. The Modi government has promoted social disorder and enmity among sections of Indians through its attitude of malign indifference when resort to violence has been taken by roaming gangs of Mr Modis and Mr Shahs ideological kind in various parts of the country, especially where their party is either in power or in a situation of influence.

Indeed, on social media the PM has been reported to follow those with criminal intent who in the name of religion have plotted murder, and has not heeded calls to unfollow these unsavoury types. Armies of thousands of Hindutva thugs have been unleashed on social media in controlled fashion in order to intimidate critics of the regime, among them politicians and journalists. The well-known television news anchor Ravish Kumar, in his newly-published book, The Free Voice, gives us a taste of what he has been through with thousands of so-called trolls choking his phone with threats to him and his family. The mafia tracks him. They let him know they know the routes he takes to work and tell him what they plan to do to him. They speak Hindutva language and spell out Hindutva thoughts. The police are hesitant to act.

The impression is that there can be no restraint on the thugs since they have the implied protection of those who matter. The socialisation of fear is complete. To be afraid is to be civilised in this New Democracy, writes Mr Kumar. What Prime Minister in a modern democracy, which seeks to leave its impression on the world stage, will accuse his predecessor, a highly respected man, besides a former vice-president of the country and a former Army Chief, of plotting with an unfriendly neighbouring country to have him defeated in an election? Mr Modi has done just that. The PM disgraced his office when he said such unworthy things to the Gujarat electorate last year. This underlined his unfitness for the job. More, it subliminally appeared to sanction violence against the so-called plotters. With Mr Modi and Mr Shah campaigning in Gujarat with no holds barred, the BJP managed to scrape through. But what if it had lost? Would former PM Manmohan Singh and senior members of his party been made targets of hoodlum violence? This is not an idle question in the republic of fear.

Even in the recent Karnataka election, Mr Modi said while campaigning, Listen with your ears open, you Congressmen! I urge you to control your tongue. It is Modi you are dealing with. Watch your words or you may have to pay a heavy price. This is a free translation in civilised English. In the original Hindi, this snatch of a speech by the PM while campaigning sounded like a dark threat of a kind heard in B-grade gangster films. The meek Dr Singh was disturbed enough to urge President Ram Nath Kovind to restrain his Prime Minister. When such a voice is unleashed from the highest level against the largest Opposition party in Parliament, the signal to storm-troopers is that they may do anything they like to strike fear in political opponents. But the people also hear. In the end, it is they who will return the compliments and settle the score. In his landmark book, Behemoth (1942), Franz Neumann wrote that violence was the very basis upon which the (Nazi) society rests. He called violence the rational instrument of political power of the fascists, and noted that it was a technique of dominating the masses from above that served to establish totalitarian control over German society.

In just under four weeks of Hitler being appointed the German Chancellor by President Paul von Hindenburg, the fascists burnt down the German Parliament on February 27, 1933 and blamed the Communists. Within weeks, the socialists and the Communists were dealt with one by one as they continued to bicker and were removed from Parliament and eventually banned, hounded and killed. Fortunately, in India, the Opposition is trying to come together to challenge the strong-arm tacticians. In an article written in 2000 for a current affairs journal, Dr Subramanian Swamy  then president of Janata Party  spoke discerningly of three prongs of a takeover bid of the RSS. The first two were demonising of those who challenge and refuse to be co-opted, and degrading the institutions of democracy so that people may lose faith in them (and become resigned to the actions of the storm-troopers later). We have witnessed the Modi government unleash the CBI, Enforcement Directorate and the taxman on the Opposition. We have also seen whats happened to the RBI, Supreme Court and Parliament (where the unheard of happened when a no-confidence motion was not permitted to be moved). The third prong is the open subversion of the Constitution. Fortunately, we are not there yet. People power is strong enough to stop the disrupters of democracy.The ones that are available are in townships that are developing on the outskirts of the state capital and are not ready to move in.

It may sound bizarre, but all former chief ministers in Uttar Pradesh seem to be house hunting. After the Supreme Court ruled that former chief ministers cannot retain official bungalows once their tenure is over and the estate department in Uttar Pradesh asked six former chief ministers to vacate their bungalows within 15 days, these leaders have been forced to look for alternative accommodation. Though none of the six former chief ministers have issued any statement in this regard, sources said that Mulayam Singh Yadav and Akhilesh Yadav have asked their aides to look for bungalows that match their present accommodation and also their status.

The problem is that with the Lucknow skyline going up, bungalows with sprawling lawns are now a rarity. The ones that are available are in townships that are developing on the outskirts of the state capital and are not ready to move in. Rajnath Singh, presently Union home minister, and Kalyan Singh, governor of Rajasthan, are apparently not too worried at the moment and Mayawati has decided not to visit Lucknow unless she gets a safe and secure alternative residence.

Pause is PMs punctuation mark

Prime Minister Narendra Modi knows how to win hearts of people. While addressing the NDA governments recent Jana Kalyan rally in Cuttack, Odisha to commemorate completion of the governments four years in office, Mr Modi started his speech by evoking the name of Lord Jagannath  the presiding deity of Odisha. As he in his inimitable style recited Jai Jagannath, Jai Jagannath, Jai Jagannath, the crowd chanted after him.





The PM took a little pause. He then invoked the name of Subhas Chandra Bose who was born in Cuttack. The crowd again cheered in appreciation. Mr Modi paused again and took many other eminent persons names and made sure the crowd reciprocated with fervour. Thats not all. He packed some Odia lines in his hour-long speech and the exhausted crowd felt rejuvenated. A few top BJP leaders sitting near the press box were heard saying: Our master speaker has learnt to use pause as a punctuation mark in his oration.Analysts believe Apple will try to inject more artificial intelligence and other new powers into Siri to make it more competitive with Googles digital assistant and Amazons Alexa. (Photo: AP)

Apple is expected to preview new capabilities for its Siri digital assistant and showcase other upcoming software features to help build anticipation for the next iPhones.

The peek at the new software will come Monday at a gathering in San Jose, California, for thousands of app developers and other computer programmers looking to create their own features for making iPhones, iPads, Macs and other Apple products more useful.

Analysts believe Apple will try to inject more artificial intelligence and other new powers into Siri to make it more competitive with Googles digital assistant and Amazons Alexa. Apple just gave its HomePod smart speaker new features, including calendar reminders  something Google and Amazon devices have long offered. Apple has been emphasizing the HomePods high-fidelity acoustics, including the ability to pair two devices in stereo mode, in an effort to distinguish its product from Googles and Amazons speakers, which primarily serve as hubs for those companies voice-activated assistants. Mondays preview could include more on that front.

Apple also may introduce new ways to help people manage their health and assist apps in the use of augmented reality  the blending of digital images and information with a physical setting through the camera.

Investors will be looking for more opportunities for the Cupertino, California, company to make money from the apps and other services baked into its devices. Apples services division, which generates revenue from subscriptions, commissions and maintenance plans tied to Apple devices, already has become the fastest growing piece of the massive company. The divisions revenue surged by 31 per cent from the previous year in Apples most recent quarter. The growth comes as Apples top-selling product, the iPhone, hasnt been selling as briskly as investors had hoped after last falls much-anticipated release of the super-premium iPhone X.

Whatever Apple does, the software updates likely wont be available for a few months. The iPhone software update usually comes for free in September, shortly after the company unveils its latest iPhones.

Apple occasionally uses its annual software preview to release a new gadget or the latest version of an existing product line. The company may launch a wireless charging pad called the AirPower that it announced last year. A new Mac is also a possibility, though not considered likely.

The event comes a month after Google showed off its latest software, including upgrades to the Android operating system that powers roughly four out of five smartphones in the world. Google also upped the ante on artificial intelligence with a new twist on an assistant that can sound more like a human than robot when making phone calls to schedule appointments and make reservations.

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.The outspoken Philippine leader is known for defying international pressure and his diatribes against critics. (Photo: File)

Manila: Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has told a UN human rights expert who said the country's judicial independence was under threat to "go to hell", warning against interference in domestic affairs.

The Philippine Supreme Court voted last month to remove Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, whom Duterte had called an "enemy" for voting against controversial government proposals, citing violations in the way she was appointed.

Her dismissal is sending a chilling message to other supreme court judges and members of the judiciary, Diego Garcia-Sayan, special UN rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, said on Friday.

"Tell him not to interfere with the affairs of my country. He can go to hell," Duterte told a news conference late Saturday night, prior to leaving for an official visit to South Korea.

The outspoken Philippine leader is known for defying international pressure and his diatribes against critics.

In particular, he has railed against former US President Barack Obama and UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings, Agnes Callamard, for criticising the bloody war on drugs, his signature public safety project.

Sereno, the first chief justice to be removed by her peers, had voted against several of the Duterte's proposals including the extension of martial rule in the volatile southern Philippines.Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for India after concluding his significant and successful three-nation visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the prime minister's visit added momentum to India's Act East Policy.

"After a significant and successful three-nation visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, PM @narendramodi emplanes for India," Kumar tweeted.

During his three-day visit to Singapore, Modi held wide-ranging talks with his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong and delivered a keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue - Asia's premier defence and strategic affairs conference.

In his keynote address at the Dialogue yesterday, Modi said an "Asia of rivalry" will hold the region back while an Asia of cooperation will shape the current century.

He is the first Indian prime minister to address the Shangri-La Dialogue.

On the last day of his Singapore visit, Modi also met US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis and discussed security-related issues.

He also visited the Changi Naval Base and met officers and sailors of the Indian Navy and Royal Singapore Navy.

Modi had arrived in Singapore after a brief halt in Malaysia where he met his 92-year-old Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohammad to personally congratulate him on his stunning election victory and the two leaders had "productive discussions" on bolstering the bilateral strategic ties.

During his first-ever official visit to Indonesia, Modi held "productive discussions" with President Joko Widodo.

The two countries elevated their bilateral ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and condemned terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terror.

India and Indonesia also signed 15 agreements, including one to boost defence cooperation and called for freedom of navigation in the strategic Indo-Pacific region.Posted Sunday, June 3, 2018 10:00 am

Southwest Electric Cooperative, citing concern for community, recently donated to three area University of Missouri Extension offices.

SWEC has partnered with our lender, CoBank, through their Sharing Success program, to make donations to three area University of Missouri Extension offices, James Ashworth, CEO/general manager of SWEC, said in a news release. MU Extension offices in Dallas, Greene and Polk counties each received a donation of $3,500 from SWEC.

In the release, SWEC said the donations are based in principles established by one of the earliest cooperative enterprises, store started by weavers in the town of Rochdale, England, in 1844.

As a way to define the characteristics of this newer type of organization, the Rochdale weavers drew up a set of principles for cooperatives to live by, the release said. The seventh of these was Concern for Community.

Southwest Electric Cooperative is proud to embrace this principle of concern for community," Ashworth said in the release.

MU Extension has an office located in almost every Missouri county and has a mission to provide community-based programming, the release said. MU Extension provides research-based information and education in four primary categories: youth and families, agriculture and the environment, nutrition and health, and business and community development.

"We are thrilled to provide some much needed financial help to these important community partners," Ashworth said. "Our concern for the communities we live in is not just a feel good saying. The board of directors and employees of Southwest live it by taking action and giving back. The Sharing Success program is a great example of that."

CoBank is a cooperative owned by their borrowers and a mission-based lender focused on agriculture and rural infrastructure businesses in rural America.

SWEC, headquartered in Bolivar, serves more than 41,000 services throughout 11 counties in southwest Missouri.

The very nature of a cooperative lends itself to working with one's neighbors for the common good, Ashworth said in the release. SWEC is proud to live out that principle through the Sharing Success program and give back to our communities.

This is the fourth year of the Sharing Success partnership between CoBank and SWEC.

To learn more about the resources and services available through your local county MU Extension office visit extension.missouri.edu.MADRID-Spain lifted direct rule in Catalonia on Saturday after regional government leaders were sworn in, concluding an unprecedented attempt by Madrid to contain a separatist push that threatened to splinter the country.

The swearing-in ends months of political limbo in the northeastern region after the independence bid last October caused Spain's biggest political crisis in decades.

Socialist leader Pedro Sanchez has been sworn in as Spain's prime minister by King Felipe VI.

Mr Torra said at the swearing-in ceremony that his government was committed to advancing towards an independent Catalan state in the form of a republic.

The new ministers will take up their posts on Saturday, the regional government announced.

The move comes a day after conservative Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy was dismissed by Spain's parliament.

Micky P Kerr makes Britain's Got Talent final

Judges will also pick a wildcard from the defeated semi-finalists to get a spot in the final. Robbie Williams was among those in the audience at the Hammersmith Apollo.

Idaho Teacher Accused Of Feeding Puppy To Turtle Is Charged

The Franklin County Prosecutor's office said Friday that the case would be prosecuted by the Attorney General's Office. If Crosland is found guilty, he could serve up to six months in jail and be fined up to $5,000.

Out of Public Eye for Weeks, Melania Trump Tweets Shes Feeling Great

Her absence is leading to a plethora of different theories, including speculation that she has moved back to Trump Tower in NY . She has, however, posted on social media multiple times since the procedure.

According to the extraordinary powers granted to Spain's central government by the Senate, the large degree of self-rule enjoyed by the region would be returned once it formed a government after a new election.

Torra is a fervent Catalan nationalist and was hand picked by former Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont to succeed him.

Puigdemont is now in Berlin awaiting potential extradition to Spain, where he faces jail on charges of rebellion and misuse of public funds. The Spanish government called their nomination "a new provocation". "We need to sit around the same table and negotiate, government to government", he said.

The Parliament voted 180-169 Friday to replace Rajoy's government with one led by Sanchez.

Sanchez has vowed to fight corruption and help those Spaniards affected by years of public spending cuts under Rajoy's government.

Unlike the new government in Italy, Sanchez and his party are staunch supporters of the European Union and the shared currency.SALT LAKE CITY  During a recent public screening of the film Angst sponsored by the Deseret News, audience members submitted their questions on cards. Some where answered at the screening. The Deseret News committed to answering the rest here.

Weve taken those questions to experts to find answers and will continue to do so throughout the course of an ongoing series on teen anxiety. Below are some of the answers  in some cases, with more than one expert viewpoint. Deseret News staff will continue to update the page and we invite readers to share their own stories, tell us what theyd like to know and more by emailing anxiety@deseretnews.com.

Question: Whats the difference between depression and anxiety?

Answer: Clinical depression, specifically major depressive disorder, involves having several symptoms that last two weeks or longer. It is not simply feeling short periods of sadness, which we all do from time to time. Symptoms include depressed mood, lack of interest or enjoyment in activities, withdrawal from family and friends, feelings of hopelessness, self-criticism or worthlessness, suicide ideation, difficulty with sleep, and changes in appetite, to name a few.

Anxiety is an unpleasant emotion we all experience given certain circumstances. However, it can be useful in avoiding dangerous situations or helping us prepare adequately for upcoming, stressful events. Although clinical anxiety varies in intensity and duration, it is more severe and long-lasting than typical anxiety, and often more intense than would be typical given the circumstances. The core symptoms include excessive worry, feeling tense, racing thoughts, decreased concentration, restlessness, and irritability. Physical symptoms could include headaches, dizziness, nausea, or rapid breathing.

Some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression overlap, such as irritability, trouble sleeping, or lack of concentration. In addition, it is common for someone to experience both depression and anxiety symptoms together.

 Ryan Regis, Safe Schools clinical coordinator for Davis School District; licensed marriage and family therapist who has worked with children and adolescents for 23 years.

Question: How do you tell when people are using anxiety as an excuse  they have counseling and coping skills and sometimes really have anxiety but seem to not ever try anything new? How do you help them want to try things that may cause them some anxiety, to start learning skills?

Answer: Avoidance fuels anxiety and anxiety predicates avoidance, creating a vicious cycle, so I can understand how it is difficult to differentiate between avoidance and accommodation. People dont generally want to do the things they are fearful of, so it is important for it to be experienced and measured and used as a tool, rather than a threat. Setting reasonable, incremental expectations that the child/loved one participates in creating is vital. Being specific with those expectations and stepping into them slowly but consistently will provide the best result.

Jenny Howe, MS, clinical therapist who practices in Kaysville, Utah.

Answer: This touches on an important consideration about willing vs. able to do and feel better. I think its risky to make assumptions about peoples motivation, or believe that people would do better if they would only decide to, or if we provide better rewards or firmer consequences.

Certainly it is always some combination of cant/wont, but in my experience it is much healthier in relationships and more productive toward getting unstuck to just assume that people cant, or else they would. When you assume they cant, you treat them like learners who need education, training and encouragement; if you assume they wont, you treat them like rebellious, manipulative or lazy teens.

Kids struggling in any way often need a bit of an excuse  someone or something to help take the pressure off. I say give it to them. Acknowledge and validate that some things are harder for them of no fault of their own. However, that also doesnt mean there cant be consequences for actions, or that they should be let off the hook.

You could say for example, Im sorry that anxiety kept you from making it to school today, thats really frustrating. We do unfortunately need to figure out how to get the schoolwork done. Or, I know anxiety is telling you not to go, but Im going to keep encouraging you because life isnt going to be great if we always let anxiety make the decisions for you, I want the real you calling more of the shots.

 Matt Swenson, MD, board certified adult, child and adolescent psychiatrist, medical director of Utah Valley Psychiatry and Counseling Clinic in Provo

Question: How do you know if your child needs medication?

Answer: Dependent on the mental health diagnosis, medication is not always a necessary component of treatment and there is not a clearly defined line as to when one child versus another would benefit from medication. Specific to anxiety, or Generalized Anxiety Disorder, medication can be a useful tool in tandem with therapy, but is not always necessary. It is best to seek out a mental health professional to help you navigate the clinical nature of your childs anxiety, prior to making the decision.

 Jenny Howe, MS, clinical therapist.

Question: What can educators do to help students with anxiety when they need therapy or someone to talk to, but the school doesnt have these resources?

Answer: Unfortunately, the school system is not set up for regular therapy sessions. However, there are multiple resources throughout the community that educators can refer students and parents to. It is encouraged that educators know what resources are in their area that provide services for students.

The school counseling center is a great place to begin as they may already know of resources in the area. Another great resource is www.211utah.org. You can search for resources by topic and geographical area via the website. You can identify details such as hours of operation, cost, insurance taken, and who they serve. You can also chat with someone if necessary.

If the need is emergent, the student/parent can call 911 or use the SafeUT app for help. Again, it is recommended to know what resources are in your area that you can refer students and parents to.

In addition, there are multiple resources educators can access to help reduce anxiety. Researching and implementing a mindfulness program as a daily practice has shown to reduce anxiety in students. Before implementing mindfulness practice, be sure to research multiple programs, the evidence behind them, and the appropriate ways of implementing the program for students developmental levels.

Books such as Building Resilience in Children and Teens, My Anxious Mind, Helping My Anxious Teen, and The Formative Five are just a few options to begin your study.

Torilyn Gillett, M.Ed., School Counseling Program Specialist, Canyons School District

Question: If the person who has anxiety doesnt want to get help, what can a parent do?

Answer: I am not sure I have ever had someone come into my office for the first time, overjoyed and ambitious about engaging in therapy. Acceptance and awareness of ones issues and their impact can take time, which is often very frustrating to loved ones who really just want to help.

Continued and consistent conversations that lead with empathy and address solutions to your concerns about your child are most effective. Often, parents report telling their child they only have to try a few sessions and then they can re-evaluate, which is helpful in allowing the child/teen to feel a sense of control. Typically, if the therapist and child match well, the child will feel the benefit of therapy and want to continue after a few sessions. Video Conferencing Therapy can be a useful tool for those who are resistant to leaving the home, in the beginning, as well.

Jenny Howe, MS, clinical therapist.

Question: How can you find your core fears, because sometimes I feel it may be so subconscious, then how do you treat it?

Answer: Core fear identification is a component of cognitive behavioral therapy. It is identified by specifying fears and recognizing a pattern of associated thought connected to those fears. For example, someone may say, I dont like dating, so I dont, when really, the issue is related to anxiety surrounding social conversation, awkward interaction and a core fear of feeling rejected. A core fear becomes apparent through reflective patterns of avoidance. Treatment of the core fear usually centers around shame.

Jenny Howe, MS, clinical therapist who practices in Kaysville, UT.

Question: Can regular anxiety turn into clinical anxiety? If so, when and how do we address regular anxiety so it doesnt turn into clinical anxiety?

Answer: There is no hard line that separates clinical anxiety, depression, inattention or social deficits from what we typically think of as normal variations on these problems. The term clinical is used to designate an agreed-upon severity of both distress and functional impairment.

This is important to keep in mind for at least two reason:

1. Negative emotions are OK and normal, indeed an important part of what makes us human. Keeping this in mind allows a person to sometimes just sit with negative emotions, practice self-compassion and self-reflection, and remember that they will pass;

2. Our shared experience reminds us that empathy is our most important tool for helping others by getting in touch with that part of ourselves that has experienced some degree of loneliness, embarrassment, shame, fear or vulnerability and using that to stay connected to our loved ones who are struggling. In summary, people need to feel safe to feel what they feel and be who they are, and they need to feel connected to loved ones. I would recommend working on meeting those needs for safety and connection for those with all degrees of anxiety.

 Matt Swenson, MD, board certified adult, child and adolescent psychiatrist, medical director of Utah Valley Psychiatry and Counseling Clinic in Provo

Question: Should someone with anxiety be forced to go to church or Scouts?

Answer: I think understanding and specifying the fears or concerns surrounding why the person doesnt want to attend those activities is a necessary conversation. Being mindful of projecting our own anxiety about our loved one not attending those activities is also a necessary conversation within ourselves. If we are worried about how the non-attendance at those activities is being perceived in the community, we may need to take a step back and address the issue when weve acknowledged our own anxiety.

 Jenny Howe, MS, clinical therapist who practices in Kaysville, UT.

Question: I want to help kids and parents learn how to manage anxiety. What is the best pathway to take in the college system (degree) to get the education I need to be in a position to help? What bachelors/masters program would you recommend?

Answer: The short answer is that there are many pathways possible to do what you want to do, and I am not sure that there is a best one.

First, there are multiple professional licenses available in Utah, for someone who wants to do counseling and psychotherapy. All of these professional roles can give you an opportunity to work with anxiety. Each has its own salary range. The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) provides licenses for the five professional roles: First, there is a licensed clinical social worker, which is the license I hold. The other roles include a licensed psychologist, a psychiatrist, a marriage and family counselor, and a clinical mental health counselor. You can learn more about these professional roles by contacting DOPL and/or looking at their website.

Second, you can qualify to take an examination for licensure in one of these roles by taking required coursework that corresponds to each role. In social work, for example, people enter and complete a Masters of Social Work (MSW) program, and then also need essentially two years of supervised, post-MSW experience before they can get licensed. Many people take a bachelors of Social Work before they enter an MSW program, although many students enter a MSW program with degrees in other fields such as psychology or sociology. One of the reasons I love social work is because we strongly emphasize the importance of economic and social justice, diversity and inclusion, and the role of culture in our practice.

If you are interested in getting an advanced degree that would qualify you to get licensed in one of the professional roles listed above, it is probably a good idea to look at the different degree programs, in social work, psychology, medicine, and related fields.

A last piece of advice. A long time ago, I worked with some clinical social workers when I was still an undergraduate student in my early 20s. They impressed me so much with their competency and humanity that I eventually became a social worker. Perhaps you might notice what professional helpers impress you the most and ask them about their own professional paths.

 David Derezotes, LCSW, PhD, professor at University of Utah; chair of Mental Health & Director of Bridge Training Clinic, College of Social Work, director of Peace & Conflict Studies, College of Humanities; director of Transforming Classrooms into Inclusive Communities, Center for Teaching & Learning Excellence; MUSE Professor, Undergraduate StudiesVideo of the incident captured by an eyewitness was later uploaded to the Internet.

The victim was taken to the hospital with what Denver Police are calling a good prognosis.

But as he was about to land his backflip, a gun flew out from his holster at the back of his trousers.

'It appears an off-duty.

An unidentified off-duty Federal Bureau of Investigation agent was having a fab time at a bar on Saturday in Denver, Colorado when he made a decision to take his moves to the dance floor and do a backflip.

Prince George terror plot trial stops suddenly as Isis supporter changes plea

The court heard Rashid ran a "prolific" Telegram channel named the Lone Mujahid where he provided an "e-toolkit for terrorism". Rashid, posted a photograph of the prince at the school super-imposed with silhouettes of two masked jihad fighters.

2 climbers killed after fall from Yosemite's El Capitan

It was the park's first death on the Half Dome cables since 2010 and the first visitor fatality in 2018, the park service said. Yosemite Park Rangers and Search and Rescue staff responded to El Capitan after multiple 911 calls reported the incident.

Russian crude oil output stagnant but remains above quotas in May

The exact amount is something that could be debated by speculators until June 22 when OPEC holds a meeting to discuss the matter. Meanwhile, the worldwide rig count in April increased by six from the previous month, up 22 from this time past year .

He tucked his gun back into his holster and walked away from the dance floor, raising both his hands.

In the video, you can see the agent quickly pick up the gun and hustle off the floor as the crowd around him reacts to the shooting.

A woman who said she witnessed and recorded the shooting with her cell phone said it happened at Mile High Spirits Distillery and Tasting Bar. Did a back flip, gun falls. "No one really knew what was going on".

The agent was subsequently taken into custody by Denver police before being released to an FBI investigator. "I was shocked. I honestly just wanted to make sure that my friends..."

According to the Denver Post, the Denver police homicide unit is investigating the incident, and charges, if there are any, will be determined by the city's district attorney's office.SALT LAKE CITY  The search for the University of Utah's next senior vice president of health sciences has been narrowed to three finalists.

 Dr. Derek Angus, chairman of the Department of Critical Care Medicine at University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

 Dr. Michael Lowell Good, dean of the University of Florida College of Medicine.

 John G. Hunter, executive vice president and CEO of the Oregon Health and Science University Health System.

The finalists' names were made public Friday night when they posted on the university's search website.

University of Utah spokesman Chris Nelson said the finalists will undergo closed-door interviews on campus with key stakeholders "in the near future."

The new senior vice president of health sciences will succeed Dr. Vivian Lee, who resigned from the administrative position more than a year ago. Lee was at the center of a heated controversy over the firing by email and swift reinstatement of Huntsman Cancer Institute CEO Mary Beckerle in April 2017.

Shortly afterward, Lee stepped down from her administrative positions and U. President Dave Pershing announced he would move up the date of his planned retirement.

The position also encompasses the roles of CEO for University of Utah Health and dean of the School of Medicine.

Dr. Lorris Betz has served as interim senior vice president of health sciences and the other roles while the search for Lee's successor was conducted. He served in the three positions from 1999 to 2011.

Here's a more information about the three finalists:

Angus earned bachelor of medicine and bachelor of surgery degrees from the University of Glasgow School of Medicine, followed by internships and residencies in internal medicine and surgery at its teaching hospitals.

He later earned a master's of public health from the University of Pittsburgh, where he leads its critical care department and is physician director of its intensive care unit service center.

Good, whose medical speciality is anesthesiology, earned his bachelor and medical degrees from the University of Michigan. He performed his residency in anesthesiology at the University of Florida College of Medicine followed by a fellowship there.

In addition to serving as dean of the University of Florida's College of Medicine, he is a distinguished professor in the Department of Anesthesiology.

Hunter, whose medical speciality is surgery, earned his bachelor degree at Harvard College. He received his medical degree from University of Pennsylvania and performed his resident training in general surgery at the University of Utah.

He later became chief of surgical endoscopy at the U. and then held a similar position at Emory University School of Medicine, where he later became vice chairman of surgery. In 2001, he relocated to Oregon, where he has held several positions including chairman of the Department of Surgery and, most recently, executive vice president and CEO of the Oregon Health and Science University.

The announcement and the candidates' curriculum vitae can be found at svphsearch.utah.edu.SALT LAKE CITY  The feeling that every teenager is on their phone is no exaggeration.

A new study recently released by Pew Research Center confirmed that fully 95 percent of teens ages 13 to 17 own their own smartphone or have access to one. But they experience mixed feelings about how that phone, particularly social media, is affecting them.

I really enjoy it but I realize how much time is wasted on it, 15-year-old Morgan Selleneit of Centerville told the Deseret News via an entirely texted interview. There are a lot of bad things that you have to stay away from and avoid. Overall I feel like (social media) is pointless, but as usual I got sucked in.

Almost half of teens say that social media is neither positive nor negative; 31 percent say it mostly benefits their lives while 24 percent mostly see the downsides.

The last time Pew reported on this topic was in April 2015, and in three years, things have definitely changed, said Monica Anderson, Pew research associate and lead author of the study, which surveyed 743 teens ages 13 to 17.

In 2015, 71 percent of teens were using Facebook. Today, that number has dropped to just over half of teens. Now, teens are opting to hang out on YouTube, Instagram (owned by Facebook) and Snapchat.

Three years ago, Facebook was really the big dominant player," said Anderson. "And today  theres been a pretty big shift in the social media landscape among teens."

Today, only 10 percent of teens say it's the platform they use most often, compared to the 35 percent who prefer Snapchat, and the 32 percent who prefer YouTube.

In some ways I was glad to see the data finally catch up with what people have been talking about  that Facebook is no longer a central platform in the lives of adolescents, said Amanda Lenhart, author of the 2015 Pew report on teens, and now the deputy director of the Better Life Lab at New America. What were seeing now  is its not just that people dont go there (often), its now younger teens arent even creating profiles.

Selleneit has a Facebook account but hasnt used it in at least five months  she calls it more of an "adult platform."

Instead, she spends around two hours daily on Instagram, watching funny vines to stave off boredom, and another hour on Pinterest where she pins ideas on travel hacks, outfit ideas and Instagram photo inspiration.

When she's with her friends, they'll play Fortnite or Minecraft on their phones, or jump on her trampoline. Selleneit bought her own iPhone 8 Plus at age 13 with money she earned working at Lagoon's Frightmares and mowing her grandpa's lawn.

When she can't hang out in person, there's always FaceTime, to talk with her friends in Kaysville and a cousin in Florida.

Pros of social media

In fact, 40 percent of teens see social media as a mostly positive thing because it allows them to connect with friends and family, according to the survey.

Teens really value the connectivity that social media can provide, said Anderson. Its often a place where teens tell us they build and maintain relationships.

Having a smartphone is a major part of building those relationships. In 2015, 73 percent of teens reported having, or having access to, a smartphone, while 87 percent had access to a desktop or laptop computer.

Today, 95 percent of teens have a smartphone, and 88 percent have a desktop or laptop computer.

Ben Morey-Beale, just shy of 16, of Hopkinton, Mass., considers himself part of a gaming community, a vlog community, news community and review community  all made possible through the YouTube videos he watches for several hours a day on his iPhone8.

"YouTube creates so many communities and has a loyal fan base where you can find people that you share common interest with and watch videos that appeal to you," he said, also via text.

Often, YouTube isn't considered a social media platform, but in reality it's a "hugely important" space for adolescents, says Lenhart.

Not only can people communicate back and forth about videos through typed comments, but the videos themselves become interactive as people respond in video format, she said.

In the new Pew survey, 85 percent of teens reported using YouTube, yet YouTube wasn't even listed in Pew's 2014-2015 survey.

For Morey-Beale  who prefers, in order, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, iFunny then Facebook  social media gives him the chance to talk with his friends about current events and stay connected, even when they can't do it in person.

Of teens who told Pew they believe social media exerts a mostly positive effect, 16 percent said it was because social media made it easier to find news and information.

Yet Morey-Beale also knows that the same reasons he likes social media  connecting with new people  are the same reasons he needs to be cautious because, "you never know who you may meet and what horrible things you may be introduced to," he typed.

Downsides to social media

Sarah Kieffer, 16, of Eagle Mountain recently saw those "horrible things" first hand, as she watched her friend develop an eating disorder.

The friend had been following a lot of fitness accounts on Instagram, and the incessant stream of beautiful, toned and skinny bodies made her feel fat, so she stopped eating.

Only when Keiffer and her other friends pointed it out did the girl realize what she'd been doing.

At first, Kieffer's friend tried unfollowing the specific accounts, but stories and images would still pop up in her Instagram Explore page. Eventually, Keiffer said her friend decided it would be best if she got rid of (Instagram) for a while.

"With social media, we need to recognize the positive effects it has on teenagers, but also the negative effects and be more careful with how we use it," said Kieffer, who tries to be "very careful" about how she uses it and for how long.

"It's starting to become a danger and a huge problem (for) teenagers' self-worth," she finished.

A group of four 15-year-old friends from Bountiful Junior High all listed "jealousy" as a negative effect of social media  both through comparing pictures of each other's "perfect lives" and because they all know who everyone else is hanging out with, and can often feel left out.

The fact that 24 percent of teens told Pew they see social media as mostly negative means that one in four kids has had a bad experience online, said Catherine Steiner-Adair, clinical psychologist, school consultant and author of "The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood and Family Relationships in the Digital Age."

"The psychological impact of the hurtful and harmful experiences kids have on social networking sites are powerful," she said, adding that it may even be worse than face-to-face interactions.

Being called a nasty name on the playground is unpleasant, but it's over and done  it doesn't go viral, Steiner-Adair said. She said she's talked with kids who repeat what they've heard their parents say: "Things you post online will stay there forever," and are now constantly haunted by the fear that someone will always be looking at that embarrassing photo or comment someone posted of them.

"You can never let bygones be bygones," she said. "That's a horrible way to feel as a child."

Developing healthy habits

Yet social media use doesn't necessarily have to be a negative experience, explains Ana Homayoun, educational consultant, speaker and author of "Social Media Wellness: Helping Tweens and Teens Thrive in an Unbalanced Digital World."

After one of her presentations, Homayoun said she heard from a teenager who confessed that all last year, while her parents thought she'd been doing homework in her room, she'd really been on ASKfm, an anonymous question-asking app.

The girl told Homayoun she was getting so stressed out that it was hard to sleep, but after hearing the presentation, realized she had a choice and decided to delete the app.

It may sound simple, but Homayoun continually reminds teens they have a choice: choose what's energizing and avoid what's draining. It's OK to unfollow someone, unfriend them or simply delete an app entirely.

"Think about your daily goals and if your (social media) habits are moving you toward those goals or away from your goals," she said during a presentation to parents and community members in Park City last month.

She calls this healthy socialization  the first of three "Ss" that she uses to teach parents and teens about healthy online habits and decisions.

Second is effective self-regulation with media  something kids want, but struggle to do, she said.

She's had parents in her office worried about their child's time-consuming homework loads, yet when she talks to their teens about their routine they'll mention doing homework with the phone by their side.

When the phone dings, they respond, then wait for a response, then maybe look at a math question, then go back to texting or snapping. After 30 minutes of "homework," teens feel they've invested significant time when they've really only spent five minutes on actual math.

She encourages apps that help teens become "aware of the time they spend on phones without judgment," she says.

There are productivity apps like Moment, which monitors the time spent on each app or platform, or "Forest" where staying off the phone for a certain amount of time plants a digital tree. Dive back in before the timer is up and the tree dies. Stay committed and grow an entire forest.

Finally, she encourages teens and parents to talk about safety  not just physical safety but social and emotional safety. This includes privacy settings and password issues, and also helping teens identify a network of peers and adults they can turn to when something goes wrong online.

When things do go wrong, Homayoun reminds parents to have the "Botox brow." No matter what a teen says, remain calm, she says, so that conversations will continue in the future. No eye rolls, panicked faces, or immediate judgment.

"Be calm and approachable," adds Steiner-Adair. "Everybody messes up, but your leverage with your kids is your relationship with them  not controlling them."Three far-reaching proposals are now officially on the ballot for voters to approve or reject in November. A fourth, the Count My Vote proposal, was disqualified after opponents rescinded just barely enough signatures to keep it off the ballot. Myriad questions remain, such as potential lawsuits, the merits of the proposals and whether each will win or lose.

The lieutenant governor has ruled Count My Vote wont be on the ballot. Whats next?

Pignanelli: "If you are sure you understand everything that is going on, you are hopelessly confused."  Walter F. Mondale

This ongoing drama has much in common with the "Star Wars" saga  sequels, endless spinoffs and activists who resemble scary aliens. Utahns will continue to endure this struggle between hostile forces for years.

Count My Vote is supported and well-funded by some of Utah's most prominent families. Further, they are just as tenacious as the Republican delegate militants, but nicer and less obnoxious.

So initiative supporters are not going away and will continue to push party nomination reforms through litigation, legislation and other means. In addition to requesting changes to Utah's primary system, they are now focused on the rescission process.

Readers are advised to approach this issue as they do "Star Wars": Enjoy the current offering knowing another installment is in the future.

Webb: Much has yet to play out on the Count My Vote disqualification, and its difficult to predict the outcome. The vast majority of Utah voters support Count My Vote and would like to affirm that support at the ballot box. The Utah Supreme Court will likely decide if they get that privilege.

The good news is that whether or not Count My Vote is on the ballot, the dual track to the primary election remains in force. The Count My Vote initiative would have improved the SB54 law, but its pretty good the way it is. The hundreds of candidates who have gathered signatures to get on the ballot will continue to do so, and Utah is not going back exclusively to the outdated, elitist, exclusionary caucus and convention system. Weve crossed a tipping point in opening Utahs election system to all voters  and were not going back.

The proposal to make marijuana readily available at the recommendation of almost any medical professional will go before voters. Are voters likely to approve?

Pignanelli: Politicos were shocked that the well-respected opponents (i.e. Utah Medical Association, law enforcement, prominent Mormons) could not obtain more rescission signatures  a clear indication of organizational problems. Also, this initiative was filed June 2017, but few bothered to read and explain concerns until a few months ago, far too late. Currently, the apprehensions with the initiative are far outweighed by the fear of the existing alternatives  opioid addiction and ineffectiveness of current FDA approved medications.

Webb: Despite polls showing widespread support for the marijuana proposal, the tide can easily turn. Prominent medical, law enforcement and community leaders are pointing out serious problems in this flawed proposal bankrolled by the multibillion-dollar marijuana industry.

Its entirely possible that elements found in the marijuana plant have medicinal qualities. If so, lets do it right and go through the approved process to create safe medications. This proposal allows widespread marijuana use without the normal safeguards used to regulate prescribed medications. Marijuana states like Colorado and California are seeing serious negative consequences. This is too big a gamble.

Medicaid expansion qualified for the ballot. Will it become law?

Pignanelli: Supporters were unchallenged while gathering signatures. That free pass now ends. Opponents will soon advise Utahns that buried in this initiative is a sales tax increase to fund the state obligation of 10 percent of medical services for the additional Medicaid recipients. So, messaging will determine the outcome of this. Is the opportunity to obtain millions of federal dollars to assist Utah's poorest greater than the fear entitlement programs are exploding the national debt? Does a tax increase make sense when the state budget is in surplus? The winner will have conveyed the simplest, most emotional missive.

Webb: Our health care system  except the emergency room  remains inaccessible for many low-income families. The system needs significant reform, especially at the federal level. In the meantime, we have the opportunity to bring home hundreds of millions of dollars were currently paying to the federal government. This money could help provide insurance and health care services for low-income families. Makes sense to me.

Voters will decide whether to set up an independent redistricting commission. Is gerrymandering a thing of the past?

Pignanelli: Gerrymandering coexists with the Constitution and is difficult to completely remove from our system. A Supreme Court decision in the very near future could impact how proponents and opponents message this initiative. Stay tuned because we will have opinions.

Webb: The authors of this initiative have struggled mightily to take the politics out of politics. It wont work, but it will be fun to watch.

Republican LaVarr Webb is a political consultant and lobbyist. Previously he was policy deputy to Gov. Mike Leavitt and Deseret News managing editor. Email: lwebb@exoro.com. Democrat Frank Pignanelli is a Salt Lake attorney, lobbyist and political adviser. Pignanelli served 10 years in the Utah House of Representatives, six years as minority leader. His spouse, D'Arcy Dixon Pignanelli, is the president/CEO of the Special Olympics of Utah. Email: frankp@xmission.com.Voters in Utah will have a rare opportunity this November to improve our democracy by approving an independent redistricting commission to help draw political boundaries in our wonderful state. The group behind this effort, Better Boundaries, has a simple goal: to end gerrymandering. The premise behind the goal is also simple  voters should pick their politicians; politicians shouldnt pick their voters.

As called for in the U.S. Constitution, every state redraws its political districts every 10 years after the federal census. In Utah, that process is currently performed by our state Legislature. The Better Boundaries initiative leaves final action with the Utah Legislature, but the initiative improves the process through the creation of an independent redistricting commission that recommends maps to the Legislature, together with rules and an open process for redistricting.

Why the need for redistricting reform? There is an inherent conflict of interest and bias when legislators, who directly benefit from how the boundaries are drawn, have the unilateral discretion to determine their district boundaries. It is natural for a legislator to draw a boundary that benefits that legislator personally and politically.

These shenanigans, known as gerrymandering, have a rich history going back to the early days of our nation. In recent decades, however, gerrymandering has reached new and alarming heights primarily due to increasingly sophisticated computer mapping and big data. Some experts refer to the current maps we are living under as the most extreme gerrymanders in history.

Today, our democratic institutions often feel separated from popular will and consequently are no longer as effective in solving our collective challenges. Gerrymandering separates politicians from the will of the people and harms our government institutions, the fairness of the system and our very democracy. The late President Ronald Reagan understood this when he called for an end to the antidemocratic and un-American practice of gerrymandering.

The Better Boundaries initiative is being pursued to address this problem. A Utah citizen ballot initiative, permitted under the Utah Constitution, is no small undertaking. To get on the ballot, a grass-roots effort was required to gather at least 113,143 signatures from 26 of the 29 Senate districts. Better Boundaries was successful because over 190,000 Utahns saw the need for redistricting reform.

The Better Boundaries initiative resulted from careful analysis and draws from the experience of 18 other states that have instituted various versions of independent redistricting. A politically balanced, seven-member commission would use standards intended to thwart gerrymandering. For example, the commission would be limited in considering incumbent addresses and partisan affiliation. Its recommendations would go to the Legislature for enactment. The Legislature would vote the recommendations up or down. If the Legislature chooses to reject the commissions recommendations, it would have to come up with its own maps following the same standards and transparency requirements of the Utah redistricting statute. If residents feel the standards are not met, a challenge in the courts is possible.

Utahs current redistricting system has brought an incredible skewing of boundaries as legislators have put their own personal desires ahead of the interests of communities. Numerous cities and towns have been split apart. For example, Holladay, a city of 30,000 people, needs to convince two members of Congress, two state senators and four state House members of its position to be represented at the state and federal levels of government. Noncompetitive races are also a hallmark of gerrymandering. In Utah, since the last redistricting efforts, 27 legislative races per year have gone uncontested; in the past 10 years, an average of eight seats were uncontested. Noncompetitive races lead to a lack of accountability, and, unfortunately, they are the new normal in Utah elections.

Better Boundaries is not intended to address the partisan makeup of Utah; we are a majority Republican state and that partisan makeup will remain regardless of what happens with Better Boundaries. But with boundaries drawn to reflect communities of interest, not personal political gain, we will have a more representative democracy. Elections will be more competitive, elected officials will be more responsive to the broad will of their constituents, and people will feel their vote counts, thus increasing voter participation and strengthening our democracy.

In the months leading up to the November election, voters will have an opportunity to consider the merits of Better Boundaries. Seldom is there an opportunity for the voting public to institute a change to our laws that helps move us toward a better-functioning democracy. The Better Boundaries initiative represents such a rare opportunity.SALT LAKE CITY  An effort to reduce the number of people on probation and parole is gaining widespread popularity in Utah.

State officials say the steadily growing ranks of people under state supervision stretches agency resources and saddles offenders with burdensome restrictions that, when violated, become pipelines to prison.

"We have a problem of mass incarceration," said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill, a Democrat. "Some of the methodologies and procedures, although that may not be our intention, end up contributing to that element of mass incarceration."

Last month, Gill and other state officials joined prosecutors from 20 other states  many of them liberal  and the District of Columbia in calling for probation and parole to be used more sparingly and only for offenders who seem to require it.

Earlier this year, the overwhelmingly Republican state Legislature demanded new guidelines for probation and parole and eliminated mandatory parole for some charges.

Supporters say the focus is an extension of wide-ranging criminal justice reforms lawmakers approved in 2015 intending to keep more than 2,500 people out of prison and save $542 million over 20 years. At the time, the state's prison population was growing at six times the national rate.

A state commission reported last year Utah was on target to meet its goal without hurting public safety.

"Ninety-five percent of the population that's incarcerated is going to return to our community," James Hudspeth said, the director of Utah's probation and parole office who joined Gill in calling for reform, using Justice Department figures. "So what are we doing to prepare those inmates to return to our communities? That's where we feel our resources are better used."

Leighann Marsh, 48, says her story is evidence of the benefit of those methods.

She faced multiple drug and fraud charges before she was arrested in 2010, according to court records. Marsh says she had been addicted to methamphetamine for six years after getting hooked on prescription painkillers.

But after the 2010 arrest she spent two years in drug court, which requires addicts to undergo a court-supervised treatment and counseling program in exchange for dismissing charges. Marsh credits it with getting her off drugs and keeping her sober.

"If you think about it, being booked and released, you still have an addiction," she said. "All it does is put a Band-Aid on a situation that has an infection in the wound. It doesn't help. What helps is having treatment, being able to work through situations that you may not know how to."

Marsh is currently studying for a master's degree in social work at the University of Utah and working as a case manager for a nearby treatment center.

The new focus has met minimal opposition.

Nathan Evershed, a Republican prosecutor running to replace Gill, told The Associated Press he agrees with the effort's goals. The Legislature's vote for reforms this year was unanimous.

Nationwide, more than 4.5 million people  or roughly one of every 55 adults  were under some sort of supervision at the end of 2016, according to the Justice Department. Roughly one-third as many people were in state and federal prison.

That marks a 1 percent decrease from the end of 2015 and a 12 percent drop from peak of 5.1 million under supervision in 2007.

The trend in Utah has been going in the opposite direction.

From fiscal years 2014 to 2017 the total number of people in parole and probation increased by more than 1,300, or about 9 percent, according to the state's criminal justice commission.

Instead of probation or parole, Hudspeth suggested offenders be directed to programs such as court-supervised probation, which require offenders to report regularly at court but don't rely on a probation officer, or else state-funded drug and mental health treatment.BPA and other estrogenic compounds hamper development of the stem cells responsible for producing sperm in mice, which suggests such exposure could contribute to declining sperm counts in men, according to a new study.

Washington State University geneticist Patricia Hunt led the new research. Photo credit: Washington State University

The study, published online yesterday in PLoS Genetics, is the first to suggest that low, brief exposures to bisphenol-A, or other estrogens such as those used in birth control but found as water contaminants, early in life can alter the stem cells responsible for producing sperm later in life.

Exposure to estrogens is not simply affecting sperm being produced now, but impacting the stem cell population, and that will affect sperm produced throughout the lifetime, said Patricia Hunt, a geneticist at Washington State University who led the study.

BPA is a ubiquitous chemical found in most people and used to make polycarbonate plastic and found in some food cans and paper receipts. People also are exposed to synthetic estrogens used in birth control as they are commonly found contaminating water, even after treatment.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned BPA from baby bottles in 2012 but maintains that BPA currently used in food containers and packaging is safe. And this week the European Food Safety Authority announced in a new assessment there is no consumer health risk from bisphenol-A exposure.

However, Hunts study adds to evidence that low doses of the compound may harm us.

Hunt and colleagues exposed some newborn mice to BPA and some newborn mice to a synthetic estrogen used in birth control pills and hormone therapy.

These exposurescomparable to human exposures to the compoundscaused permanent alterations to the stem cells responsible for sperm production, the authors wrote.

The researchers also transplanted the stem cells into unexposed mice and verified the impacts to sperm development.

It is sobering evidence for possible harmful impacts from short-term exposure, said Mary Ann Handel, a senior research scientist with The Jackson Laboratory, which specializes in genetics research.

Scientists previously found BPA exposure impacts mice testis size and sperm development and prostate growth. But what Hunt and colleagues did was differentthey found a possible reason why these things happen: changes to the stem cells, which are vital for male reproduction.

The negative effects of estrogenic chemicals on the developing male include an expanding list of subtle changes to the developing brain, reproductive tract and testis, the authors wrote. Changes in all three have the potential to induce major reproductive repercussions and  the biological underpinnings remain unclear.

Over the past few decades, researchers have noted declining sperm counts and quality in places such as Europe, Japan and the U.S. In Denmark, more than 40 percent of young men have sperm counts associated with infertility or decreased fertility.

When you show youre impacting a stem cellthats a huge deal, said University of Missouri scientist Frederick vom Saal, who was not part of the study. This exposure could very well be the basis for transgenerational loss of sperm production.

Sperm production is a continuous process: Once males hit puberty and start producing sperm, stem cells slowly divide and give rise to new cells to produce sperm.

And, while there are some limits in using mice and extrapolating findings to humans, the reproductive systems fundamentals are the same, Hunt said.

However, Steven Hentges of the American Chemistry Council, which represents chemical manufacturers, said in an emailed response that multiple large studies "consistently find no reproductive effects in males or females at any dose remotely close to the levels of BPA to which people are actually exposed."

He said Hunt's study is of "limited relevance to human health" and that the doses used were much higher than actual human exposure.

Hunt said that is not true.

"The levels we used are based on previous studies and produce very low levels in blood that are lower than those reported in humans," Hunt said.

Vom Saal said its important in future studies to see if the stem cell changes from exposure are passed to future generations. Evidence suggests that estrogenic compounds appear to alter the ability of genes to function properly, a phenomenon referred to as epigenetic changes.

When such changes happen, it can mean similar problems in sperm production for future generations. And since most people are consistently exposed to BPA and other estrogenic compounds, each generation could have it a bit worse, vom Saal said.

Hunt and colleagues did run into one problemthere are secondary impacts, such as fluid retention, which make it difficult to take the stem cell research to the next level and look at correlations in sperm cell counts and measures of reproductive ability.

Exposure is not just affecting cells in testis but the whole animal, Hunt said.

Hunt admits this is complicated genetics stuff, but said the consequences are quite important.

This implicates cells way upstream and could mean problems for subsequent generations after exposure, she said.

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Top 10 Healthiest Plant-Based DietsBayer will no longer sell glyphosate-containing products to U.S. home gardeners, the company announced on Thursday.

The move comes as the company currently faces around 30,000 legal claims from customers who believe use of these products  including the flagship Roundup  caused them to develop cancer, as AgWeb reported.

"Bayer's decision to end U.S. residential sale of Roundup is a historic victory for public health and the environment," Center for Food Safety executive director Andrew Kimbrell said in a statement. "As agricultural, large-scale use of this toxic pesticide continues, our farmworkers remain at risk. It's time for EPA to act and ban glyphosate for all uses."

The antithesis of eco-friendly lawn care, Glyphosate is a controversial ingredient because it has been linked to the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as Cure noted. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer declared that it was "probably carcinogenic to humans," in 2015. While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under former President Donald Trump ruled that the chemical did not pose any risk to human health, the Biden Administration later admitted that the review was flawed and needed to be redone, as Common Dreams reported. Still, it refused to take it off the market in the meantime.

Bayer's decision comes in response to the many lawsuits related to glyphosate that it inherited when it acquired Monsanto in 2018. Juries sided with the plaintiffs in three highly-watched trials before Bayer settled around 95,000 cases in 2020 to the tune of $10 billion. That settlement, which was one of the largest in U.S. history, allowed Bayer to continue to sell Roundup without any warnings. However, the company still faces further litigation, and said it decided to pull the product from residential use in order to prevent more. More than 90 percent of recent claims come from the residential home and garden market, AgWeb reported.

"This move is being made exclusively to manage litigation risk and not because of any safety concerns," the company said when it announced its decision.

The products will be replaced with different active ingredients beginning in 2023, following reviews by the EPA and state regulatory bodies. January 2023 was the earliest the change could reasonably be implemented, Bayer Crop Science Division president Liam Condon told AgWeb.

"This is from a regulatory and logistical point of view (of what's) possible," Condon said during a conference call with investors, as AgWeb reported.The search for the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 is not quite over, the company leading the mission has said, despite the Malaysian government stating on Monday that it had ended.

The ship conducting the hunt, Seabed Constructor, was a Norwegian research vessel carrying 65 crew, including two members of the Malaysian navy as the government's representatives.

"The total area covered in a little over three months of operational days is in far excess of the initial 25,000 km sq target and nearly the same area as the previous searched achieved in two and a half years", it added.

Mr Oliver Plunkett, Ocean Infinity's chief executive officer, said: "Part of our motivation for renewing the search was to try to provide some answers to those affected".

Remarkably, Ocean Infinity's underwater drones on its vessel Seabed Constructor scanned almost as much of the ocean floor in just 90 days as the previous three-year $200 million search, coordinated by Australian authorities.

The governments of Australia, Malaysia and China suspended the official search after scrutinizing about 119,139 square kilometres of the Indian Ocean floor at a cost of more than $150 million.

Plunkett hopes to be able to again offer the company's services in the search for MH370 in the future.

The search area deemed by experts to be the most likely crash site was 9,650 square miles, an area roughly 25% larger than Wales.

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El duelo se disputo en el estadio Atleti Azzurri de Bergamo , Italia , ante una escasa concurrencia de 2 mil personas. Egipto : El Shenawy, Fathy, Abdul Shafy, Hegazi, Samir, El Said, Hamed, Morsy, Trezeguet , Mohsen y Sobhi.

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Trump says summit with Kim Jong Un is back on

Trump indicated that the campaign of "maximum pressure" was at least on hold, vowing no new sanctions while talks are ongoing. Prior to Friday's meeting, Kim Yong Chol met with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in New York City on Wednesday and Thursday.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said later Wednesday that the worldwide safety investigation team is expected to finalize and release its final report on the case by July.

"I can assure you the final report will be published with full disclosure".

The original search focused on the South China Sea before analysis revealed the plane had made an unexpected turn west and then south.

The firm stood to make up to $70 million if successful but did not find any sign of the airliner, despite scouring the seabed with some of the world's most high-tech search equipment.

Ocean Infinity said it was heading to one last spot of interest before it turned back for good.

The underwater search for that missing passenger jet, Malayasia Airlines flight MH370, has come to an end.

'If they're not, of course, that would be a great sadness for all of us, ' Foley said.Survival results for the CALGB 80303 Trial presented today at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting 2018 demonstrate that esophageal cancer patients shown by PET scan to be non-responders to induction chemotherapy, and were then switched to a new chemotherapy during chemoradiation, showed median overall survival of 27 months. This improves on 18-month median overall survival of previous studies that used the same chemotherapy with non-responders during induction and chemoradiation treatment phases. Patients who were shown by PET to be responders to induction chemotherapy with the regimen FOLFOX and then stayed on FOLFOX during chemoradiation showed 55 percent 4-year survival, the best ever outcome reported for patients with this disease.

"Esophageal cancer patients undergo treatments to shrink tumors before surgery. We wanted to see if PET scan could help us personalize the best pre-operative treatment," says Karyn Goodman, MD, MS, Grohne Chair of Clinical Oncology at University of Colorado Cancer Center, and the national study chair of the CALGB 80303 Trial.

Currently, patients with stage II/III esophageal and gastroesophageal cancers typically receive 5.5 weeks of chemotherapy with radiation (chemoradiation) followed by surgery. Chemoradiation before surgery has been shown to improve survival compared with surgery alone, but the optimal chemotherapy for this patient population remains unknown.

The goal of the CALGB 80303 trial was to determine whether PET scan at baseline and then again after a short course of "induction chemotherapy" prior to chemoradiation could show which patients responded to the prescribed chemotherapy regimen, allowing responders to confidently continue the regimen that was working, while helping non-responders switch to the other chemotherapy regimen during chemoradiation.

In all, 257 U.S. patients with adenocarcinoma of the esophagus or gastroesophageal junction received PET scan at the time of diagnosis and again after six weeks of induction chemotherapy with either FOLFOX or carboplatin/taxol.

"If there was a good response by PET, they continued on the same chemotherapy during chemoradiation. If they had a poor response, they switched over to the alternative chemotherapy agent during chemoradiation," Goodman says.

After six weeks of chemoradiation including the same or the other chemotherapy regimen, patients underwent surgery, and then researchers followed their survival outcomes. Last year at ASCO 2017, Goodman and colleagues reported that changing chemotherapy regimen for non-responders increased the rate of pathologic complete response, meaning, "there were no traces of cancer in the tissue specimen taken at the time of surgery," Goodman says. This year at ASCO, researchers present survival data in this same population.

Overall, median survival remained higher in the group of patients that responded to induction chemotherapy than in the group that did not respond to induction therapy, at 46 months for responders and 27 months for non-responders.

"This makes sense," Goodman says. "Again, these are patients who benefitted from induction chemotherapy, whether with FOLFOX or with carboplatin/taxol. We would expect them to live longer than patients who did not respond."

In fact, it was impossible to accurately determine the median overall survival for patients who responded to FOLFOX during induction and then stayed on FOLFOX during chemoradiation, because more than half of these patients were still alive at the time of data analysis (the 55 percent 4-year survival listed above).

But the major update in outcomes was seen for patients who did not respond to induction treatment, and then switched to the other chemotherapy regimen during chemoradiation.

"Twenty-seven months median overall survival is much better than we have seen in previous studies for patients who do not respond to induction chemotherapy," Goodman says. "We show that using PET scan at baseline and then again after induction chemotherapy can help to determine who should stick with the chemotherapy used during induction and who should switch to the other regimen during chemoradiation."

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NOTE: These settings will only apply to the browser and device you are currently using.An Iraqi court Sunday jailed a French woman for 20 years for belonging to the Islamic State group as her lawyers accused authorities in Paris of "interference" to prevent her returning to France.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for illegal entry into the country, and was set to be deported back to France.

But another court ordered the re-trial of the 27-year-old French citizen under Iraqs anti-terror law.

On Sunday she was found guilty of membership of IS and handed a life sentence  which in Iraq is equivalent to 20 years.

I am innocent, Boughedir told the judge in French.

My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said.

I am opposed to the ideology of the Islamic group and condemn the actions of my husband, she added.

Her Iraqi lawyer, Nasureddin Madlul Abd, urged the court to acquit Boughedir, describing her spouse as a jailkeeper not a husband who had forced her to join him in Iraq.

Her French defence team  William Bourdon, Martin Pradel and Vincent Brengarth  said they were relieved she had been spared the death penalty, but vowed to appeal the verdict.

In Paris, the foreign ministry said France respected sovereign Iraqi justice.

We note that the judicial procedure is not over, the ministry told AFP.

France will continue to respect the sovereignty of Iraqi jurisdiction and the independent judicial proceedings.

Boughedir, who wore a black dress and headscarf, arrived in the courtroom carrying her youngest daughter in her arms. Her three other children are now back in France.

Hers is the latest in a series of verdicts doled out to foreigners who flocked to join IS in its self-declared caliphate after the jihadist group seized the northern third of Iraq and swathes of Syria in 2014.

On May 22, an Iraqi court sentenced Belgian jihadist Tarik Jadaoun, also known as Abu Hamza al-Beljiki, to death by hanging  although he pleaded not guilty to a range of terror charges.

Jadaoun had earned the moniker the new Abaaoud, after his compatriot Abdelhamid Abaaoud, one of the organisers of November 2015 attacks in Paris.

 Unacceptable interference 

Even before she was sentenced, Boughedirs case sparked anger from her defence team, who had accused French authorities of interfering.

On Thursday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Boughedir was a Daesh (IS) terrorist who fought against Iraq and should be tried on Iraqi soil.

Her French lawyers sent a letter of protest to Le Drian, seen by AFP, in which they denounced pressure on the Iraqi judicial system and unacceptable interference.

Bourdon on Sunday condemned the verdict, saying it had been influenced by extra-judicial reasons.

During the hearing, which lasted about one hour, the judge asked Boughedir  who was arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul  to explain why and under what circumstances she had arrived in Iraq.

He then declared that the proof that has been gathered is enough to condemn the criminal to a life sentence.

Bourdon said Le Drian wanted his client to be tried in Iraq to ensure that she wont be heading back home to France any time soon, as part of efforts to prevent the return of jihadists.

Boughedirs family and her defence team want her to face a court in France, Bourdon said.

After being sentenced in February to seven months in prison for illegal entry, she was set to be deported home.

But upon re-examining her file, an Iraqi court said she had knowingly followed her husband to Iraq to join IS.

 Second Frenchwoman sentenced 

Boughedirs husband is believed to have been killed during operations by US-led coalition-backed Iraqi forces to regain control of Mosul, Iraqs second city and the jihadists former stronghold.

On Sunday she told the court that the man she had been married to for five years had disappeared one day, walking out and saying he was going out to look for water.

Since then, she said, she had received no information about his fate or his whereabouts.

Boughedir is the second French citizen sentenced to life in prison by an Iraqi court for belonging to IS, after Djamila Boutoutaou, 29, in April. Boutoutaou also said she had been tricked by her husband.

Thousands of foreign fighters from across the world flocked to the black banner of the jihadists after the group seized swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014.

Multiple offensives have since reduced their caliphate to a sliver of desert in the east of war-torn Syria.

Iraqi courts have sentenced to death more than 300 people, including dozens of foreigners, for belonging to IS, judicial sources have said.

Dozens of French citizens suspected of having joined IS are believed to be in detention in Iraq and Syria, including several minors.First of all, I must say I did not agree with the name change of Durango Boulevard to Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard (in 2011) and Old Highway 90 to Enrique M. Barrera Parkway (in 2016). These are street names that are part of San Antonios history. My question is about La Calle Dolorosa: Dolorosa Street, which in Spanish means the painful street. Growing up on the West Side, I heard legends about this street. One story was that there had been a massacre of women and children on the street by Mexican Army troops. Can you ask history folks about this?

Manuel P. Munoz Jr.

Some sad things have happened on this old central-city street, including a devastating fire and a child run over by a delivery wagon around the turn of the last century, but none of them gave Dolorosa its name.

The story you heard probably refers to the aftermath of the Battle of Medina, which took place Aug. 13, 1813, about 20 miles south of San Antonio. This conflict between rebels attempting to wrest Texas away from Spain and a Spanish royalist army was the bloodiest battle ever fought on Texas soil, according to the battles entry in the Handbook of Texas, written by Robert H. Thonhoff, author of The Texas Connection with the American Revolution and other books on Texas history.

The encounter between a force of about 1,400 men composed of Anglos, Tejanos, Indians and former royalists and an army of 1,830 soldiers sent to quell the rebellion turned into a four-hour battle involving infantry, cavalry and artillery, routing the republicans. Most of those not killed on the battlefield were caught and executed during the retreat, wrote Thonhoff, while the royalists lost only 55 men.

After the battle, the royalist commander, Gen. Joaquin de Arredondo  one of whose aides was Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, destined to return to San Antonio for the Battle of the Alamo  established martial law in San Antonio and severely punished the rebels and their families. Thonhoff doesnt detail those punishments, but there are several versions of actions taken against women of San Antonio families thought to have been sympathetic to the rebels who had made a declaration of independence for Texas a few months earlier in the city.

A detailed account appears in the San Antonio Express, June 9, 1936, in one of a series of historical articles commemorating the Texas Centennial. A popular legend, according to the story, claims that Dolorosa received its name when Arredondo imprisoned 40 women of San Antonio in the old Curbelo home (covered here April 4, 2010) at the corner of Dwyer Avenue and Dolorosa and compelled them to grind 14 bushels of corn daily on metates (grindstones) and make the entire lot of meal into tortillas for (the royalist) soldiers.

Another version recounted by David P. Green in Place Names of San Antonio said the women were held in confinement in a large enclosure near the present-day (Bexar County) courthouse, where they were forced to cook and serve the conquering army under oppressive conditions, to the point where some of the women died. Thus, in memory of the sufferings of those women, the street on which they were held is said to have been named Via Dolorosa.

Both the 1936 Express story and Green stress there is documentary evidence that the street name predated the 1813 battle by more than two decades. In the records at (the) Bexar County Courthouse is a deed of 1778 in which Governor Baron de Ripperda granted a lot to Juana Maria de Villanueve, and the lot is described as being on Amargura Street until it connects with Dolorosa, according to the Express story. Green notes that the name, as Via Dolorosa, appeared on city street maps as early as 1790.

The street name was known as Calle de la Dolorosa in 1782, when land grants there were made to Juan Perez and Bonifacio Hernandez, So the name dates back well before any of the legends associated with it, said J.F. Frank de la Teja, chief executive officer of the Texas State Historical Association and former Texas state historian (2007-2009).

La Dolorosa, said de la Tejas, is the Spanish name for the manifestation of the Virgin Mary associated with Christs Crucifixion. Her full name is Nuestra Senora de los Dolores (La Dolorosa for short) or in English, Our Lady of Sorrows. The name Via Dolorosa signifies something different  reputedly the route taken by Christ to the Crucifixion  in English, the Way of the Cross. Related street names occur in other Spanish-speaking cities, most notably, Calle la Dolorosa in Madrid. The figure of La Dolorosa, said de la Teja was and remains an important object of veneration among Catholics, particularly in the Hispanic world.

historycolumn@yahoo.com | Twitter: @sahistorycolumn | Facebook: SanAntoniohistorycolumnAlong the streets of downtown San Antonio, a large procession of devout Catholics walked in unity Saturday evening as part of San Fernando Cathedrals third annual Feast of Corpus Christi.

The throng had poured out of San Fernando Cathedral after Mass to acknowledge the Eucharist, the sacrament of Holy Communion, commemorating the Lords Supper.

Its nice to celebrate his love, said Andres Mandujano, 24, who attended the 5 p.m. Mass before the procession with his friend Oscar Rodriguez, 18.

Now Playing: Clergy and faithful celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi, when Catholics acknowledge the presence of Christ in the Eucharist, outside San Fernando Cathedral on Saturday, June 2, 2018. Video: Billy Calzada, Express-News

The two are part of the Young Covenant Warriors, one of the cathedrals youth groups.

Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller led the celebration of Mass and took the lead in the procession, which started at the door of the historic cathedral and wound its way around the block before ending at the cathedral. As he walked at the head of the group that numbered several hundred, Garcia-Siller was carrying the Eucharist.

As the faithful of all ages walked through the streets, they sang hymns of praise and recited passages from the Bible.

Ana Flores, 63, whose home church is Holy Trinity Church in the Stone Oak area, said she was at the event with fellow church members. They carried their churchs banner in the procession.

It feels good, Flores said, referring to joining other Catholics in a public profession of their faith.

The group stopped at several places along the route. At one point on North St. Marys Street, church volunteers showered the participants in the procession with yellow, white, pink and red flower petals.

Richard and Celia Acosta, who are parishioners at San Fernando Cathedral, are members of the fellowship Messengers of the Real Presence.

Seventy percent of Catholics arent fully aware of the Christ (living) in them, said Richard Acosta, 74.

His wife was enjoying the event.

We have a loving God. At these times, you can feel it, Celia Acosta, 71, said.

Not everyone who participated in the procession attended the earlier Mass; several tourists joined in the festivities.

Colette Armstrong, 9, and her younger sister, Jeanette Armstrong, 4, were given paper bags filled with fresh pink flower petals to toss at the archbishops feet as he walked past.

We just stumbled on this, said Cristina Armstrong, the girls mother. The Armstrong family, who hails from south Florida, was in the Alamo City visiting Cristina Armstrongs hometown.

While she was raised a Catholic, Cristina and her husband, a Presbyterian, have opted to let their daughters choose their faith for themselves.

At the end of the procession, Garcia-Siller stood in front of the cathedral and gave the crowd his blessing.

aluna@express-news.netPlace Your Advert

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(Foul mouthed, Boring and Ignorant) and anonymous trolls hardest hit.

III. Feel free to use, in unaltered form, any Photoshops I create with the 'Proof Positive' or @ProofBlog address on them. A simple link in return is all we ask, so anyone else who likes it knows where to find more.

IV. As a matter of policy, I never knowingly print lies or untruths in my blog or Tweets, unless I'm quoting correctly the liberal who told them.

Parler @ProofPositive



(Just five. They were having a sale!)



I. Commenting here is a privilege, not a right.V. Follow me on Twitter:Sugar beet hauliers were "groomed" by British Sugar invest significantly and to grow their capacity, without guarantees of tonnage.

The allegation was made in the the Douglas report, an independent assessment of the British Sugar Industry Harvesting and Haulage Scheme.

The scheme was set up by British Sugar in 2010 to provide harvesting and haulage services to sugar beet growers.

One major issue the report states is that groomed operators have allegedly been encouraged to grow capacity in previous campaigns and are then being allocated low or no tonnage as rates are deemed too high.

It goes on to say that reconciliation with groomed hauliers is necessary to prevent the perception of British Sugar ditching operators solely on price, even after significant investment to grow their fleet capacity.

However, the report admits it found no evidence of wrongdoing within the schemes operation and any allegations of such appeared to be anecdotal only and without factual evidence.

Specific recommendations have been made to improve transparency and understanding and British Sugar, and will be implemented ahead of the 2018/19 sugar beet campaign.

Three principles

NFU Sugar and British Sugar have agreed three principles that the scheme must operate to and will now work together to make the changes.

The principles include maximising value to the industry, focusing on maximising yield potential from farm to factory and continuing to drive efficiencies.

The industry must be well run and operated fairly, organised appropriately and operated transparently; with clear, open, honest and timely communication.

Finally, the report recommends that the industry must encourage and reward best practice.

NFU Sugar board chairman, Michael Sly explained: "NFU Sugar has maintained for some time that the IHHS has focused on cost reduction at the expense of value to the industry.

Talking with growers there are plenty of examples of fragmentation in the most recent campaign, which not only goes against the core aims of the Scheme, but has been a real financial and logistical burden.

To remain competitive in the post-quota world, our industry must focus on maximising yield potential from farm to factory.

I am pleased that British Sugar has committed both to implementing the Douglas recommendations, and to work with NFU Sugar to make further changes necessary for it to operate against the agreed principles.

Mr Sly added: Only by doing both of these things can we ensure that the IHHS will be fit for the future."New rural crime survey seeks to gain insight from farmers

It asks what farmers think of policing in their areaWhile Sanju, the Rajkumar Hirani directorial based on Sanjay Dutt's life and times, is being talked about back home, Sanjay Dutt, the actor has been busy sweating it out in Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia. After completing a major schedule of Torbaaz in the faraway land, Dutts on his way back to Mumbai.The second schedule involved a gruelling 30-day shoot amidst tough weather conditions and long travel hours between locations. A source reveals that Dutt went through a tough schedule. To meet a deadline, Dutt kept shooting without any time off. But being the foodie hes known to be, he ordered local delicacies for everyone on the set. After the final pack-up, Dutt ordered his favourite lamb delicacies and partied with close friend and producer Rahul Mittra and crew members. He then took an early morning flight today to Dubai to come to Mumbai. His penchant for enjoying the local cuisine was evident even when he was shooting for Bhoomi in North India. Hed order indigenous delicacies for the entire team to relish. Torbaaz is directed by Girish Malik and presented by Raju Chadha. It also stars Rahul Dev, Nargis Fakhri and Rahul Mittra in pivotal roles.Mohanlal did inspire one and all with the latest video that the actor had sent out through his social media pages, in which he could be seen sweating it out in the gym. In fact, the past few hours were have been ecstatic for all the fans of Mohanlal, with the actor coming up with some special gifts through his social media pages.

After the workout video, Mohanlal came up with other two special gifts, in the form of a motion poster of a much awaited television programme and a brand new poster of his upcoming film.

Yes, we are talking about highly awaited programme Bigg Boss and the actor's upcoming film, Neerali, which is gearing up for a release. The official motion poster of the Malayalam version Bigg Boss was released through the official Facebook page of Mohanlal, at 7 PM yesterday (June 02, 2018). The 20 seconds long motion poster has revealed that the show will commence on June 24, 2018.

Take a look at the motion poster here..

Meanwhile, the brand new poster of Neerali was released this morning and it has rightly captured the attention of all.

The brand new poster is indeed an intense one and in fact, it is the best among the whole lot of posters released by the makers. One can rightly expect a fine thriller with an amazing performance from the much loved star of Malayalam cinema.Indian film actor Dhanush is well known for his artistic abilities by divulging his tenacity as an actor, director and producer. His latest production venture Kaala, starring his father-in-law Superstar Rajinikanth is slated for June 7, 2018 release. Directed by Pa Ranjith, the mass action entertainer will show Rajinikanth as a local don, fighting for the rights of Tamil people in Dharavi, Mumbai.

Dhanush had plans of collaborating with his father-in-law earlier, but was unable to take the project forward owing to Rajinikanth's much awaited, yet vacillating political entry and his other current obligations at hand with regard to the committed projects.

As per the latest reports, Dhanush is expected to join hands with the Tollywood star Akkineni Nagarjuna in a film that is going to be directed by the former. The script was initially formulated bearing Rajinikanth in mind but steered towards Nagarjuna on the grounds that Rajinikanth could no longer be associated with the picture.

Nagarjuna was very much moved by the script and has reportedly given an affirmative response. However, there is no official confirmation yet and further deliberations are in progress. Akkineni Nagarjuna's latest film Officer, directed by Ram Gopal Varma has released and is receiving mixed to negative reviews from the critics.

The Manam star is widely known for his works in biographical films and meticulous about finalizing the scripts. He has acted in multi-starrer movies that most actors say 'no' to these days. Dhanush had commended Nagarjuna's performance in Oopiri, which was a bilingual release in Tamil and Telugu. He met with the Tollywood star in the beginning of this year and the duo discussed many things and came up with an idea of teaming up in a possibly bilingual flick.

As mentioned before, proper announcement is expected in the near future on this matter. Nagarjuna is also reportedly approached by film-maker Priyadarshan to act in a Mohanlal starrer Malayalam movie 'Marakkar Arabikadalinte Simham', but the Tollywood star hasn't given a nod yet. Apart from all these, Nagarjuna is linked with a Tollywood movie having an ensemble cast that is going into the making anytime soon.

On the other hand, Dhanush himself is tied up in the foreseeable future. He has Maari 2, Vada Chennai, Enai Noki Paayum Thota in line for release. The National Award-winning actor made his directional debut with Pa Paandi starring Rajkiran and Revathi in the lead roles and it eventually emerged a commercial success. Since then, he was keen on broadening his movie making skills and came up with ideas reckoning Superstar Rajinikanth in mind.

Due to unavoidable circumstances that prevailed over the last few months, the script is yet to take full form after finalizing the cast and crew. Hopefully should things fall in place, we would see Akkineni Nagarjuna and Dhanush pairing up for latter's movie which is expected to go on floors anytime next year.Raja Gets Into A Drunken Brawl

According to TOI report, "The brawl turned into a fist fight, with the people involved calling the local police. The Bithoor police have now registered a case against Raja Choudhary, for improper behaviour under the influence of alcohol."

A Case Has Been Registered Against Raja

Sanjeev Suman (SP Kanpur West) was quoted by the leading daily as saying, "We have registered a case against Raja Chaudhary and sent him for medical examination in the night. Investigations are underway."

The Producer Was Fed Up Of Rajas Alcoholism!

If sources are to be believed, the actor was asked to leave the sets as the producer of the film, Sarvesh Thakur was fed up of Raja's alcoholism. Raja quit the film after a heated argument.

Raja Reaches The Sets & Starts Fighting!

Raja, who was upset with the recent development, reached the sets (at Nana Rao Park) again and started fighting with the director of photography of the film, Raju R Dwivedi.

The Actor Misbehaves With Families At The Park

He also misbehaved with the families who were at the park. The producer and the cameramen of the film called the police and Raja was taken to the Bithoor police station.

The Ex-Bigg Boss Contestant Misbehaves With Cops, Media Personnel & Doctors!

It is being said that Raja also misbehaved with the cops and a few media Personnel, who were present there. Not only cops and media people, it seems he even misbehaved with the doctors at the local government health centre where he was taken for a medical check-up!

Rajas Drama At Hospital & Police Station

Apparently, the doctors left the place after Raja abused and threatened them. They returned only after police assured them of their safety! During the medical check-up, the actor was shouting that he would call the DM and SSP. He was also singing 'Chup chup kyon baithi ho', when he was at the police station.

In Defence, Raja Says His Drink Was Spiked!

Interestingly, the actor, in his defence, had told the police that he was given an adulterated drink by a 'Sadhu', which led to this behaviour!About Me Scott Because prophetic scriptures are found throughout the bible, it is obvious that a comprehensive, systematic approach would be useful, if not necessary, for the understanding of prophecy. Past prophecies have been fulfilled in a literal manner, as confirmed by the dating of these writings and historical records of confirmation. These past prophecies also serve as a model of how to interpret future prophecies. A literal view of prophecy clearly indicates a certain sequence of events will occur within a single generation, concluding with the Tribulation and Second Advent and these events will be obvious. The prophetic signs appear to be present in this generation and we believe these signs are revealed in the news from around the world. View my complete profileMarket research firm Technavio has announced the release of their latest report on the food retail market in Saudi Arabia. This new report will provide an analysis of the market based on the latest developments which are expected to impact the market during the period 2018-2022.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180603005059/en/

Technavio has published a new market research report on the food retail market in Saudi Arabia from 2018-2022. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The report will present an updated analysis of the market with regards to the current competitive landscape and the global environment. It will also provide new forecasts based on the prevalent market scenario.

The upgraded research report on the food retail market in Saudi Arabia 2018-2022 is an integral part of Technavio's foodportfolio. The global industry for food and its associated products encompass products such as canned, fresh, and frozen foods, pasta, and cooking oils. Technavio's market research reports and competitive analysis provides strategic market insights on the latest trends in the food industry. Some of the topics covered include organic snacks, CBD oil, and ready meals.

This report is available at a USD 1,000 discount for a limited time only: View market snapshot before purchasing

Food retail market in Saudi Arabia: Global opportunities for growth

Technavio's previous report on the food retail market in Saudi Arabia found that Saudi Arabia accounts for around 51% of the total food retail sales in the GCC region, thanks to the rising population and the increasing disposable income of people in the country. The food retail outlets in Saudi Arabia carry a broad range of options for consumers such as domestically processed foods, imported specialty food products, and organic food products. Consumers prefer to shop at supermarkets and hypermarkets as these food stores also provide an outing for families. The retailers in the food market are trying to increase their stores to gain more market share and consumer segments. With the rise in the influx of tourists in the country because of Mecca, the demand for packaged food in this region will see tremendous growth in the coming years.

In the previous report, a senior research analyst at Technavio stated, "One of the latest trends gaining prominence in the food retail market in Saudi Arabia is the increasing use of private-label brands. Most Saudi supermarkets have their private-label brands. The Saudi importers purchase food products under their brand names and pack those products locally using their label. Private-label brands with Arabic sounding brand names are more appealing to Saudis and other Arabs in the country. For instance, one of the largest importers in Saudi Arabia uses the Arabic sounding brand name Al-Alali for its products to appeal to Saudi nationals."

Technavio's new report on the food retail market in Saudi Arabia will evaluate the key geographical regions and their behavior over the past four years, introducing new data and observations and providing new predictions. The report is available to order now and will be delivered within one week of purchase.

Food retail market in Saudi Arabia 2018-2022: Detailed analysis at your fingertips

Some of the topics that will be revisited in the new report include:

Market size and forecast through 2022

Top industry trends

Key factors driving growth

Leading players and competitive landscape

Market challenges and growth opportunities

Looking for the latest information on the food retail market in Saudi Arabia? Request a free sample

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report such as the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more.

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 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

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www.technavio.comOsaka, Japan (ots/PRNewswire) -Takeda demonstrates leadership in GI by featuring new U.S. VICTORY Consortium data among its 24 sponsored Entyvio abstracts presented at the Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2018 meetingTakeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE: 4502) ("Takeda") today announced a new analysis of real-world data comparing the safety data of the gut-selective biologic Entyvio (vedolizumab) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF?)-antagonist therapy. The results showed numerically lower rates of serious infections (SIs) [6.9% vs 10.1%; odds ratio (OR) 0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41-1.07] and significantly lower rates of serious adverse events (SAEs) [7.1% vs 13.1%; OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.32-0.81] in patients treated with Entyvio (n=436) compared to TNF?-antagonist therapy (n=436). This analysis of the VICTORY (Vedolizumab Health OuTComes in InflammatORY Bowel Diseases) Consortium evaluated the occurrence of adverse events (AEs) in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) who received vedolizumab compared with TNF?-antagonist therapy and was presented as an oral presentation at the 2018 Digestive Disease Week (DDW) annual scientific meeting held from June 2-5 in Washington, D.C.Data from 872 UC and CD patients (n=334 UC, n=538 CD; n=436 Entyvio; 47% male, median age 35 years), from the UC and CD VICTORY Consortium database, were analyzed to compare the safety of Entyvio to TNF?-antagonist therapy. Patients receiving Entyvio were matched (1:1)* to patients on TNF?-antagonist therapy using propensity scores to control for baseline differences between groups. Among patients on biologic monotherapy (n=247; n=142 Entyvio), Entyvio-treated patients were observed to have numerically lower rates of SIs (4.1% vs 10.1%; OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.13-1.02) and significantly lower rates of SAEs (4.7% vs 14.5%; OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.12-0.73). Among patients who were on biologic therapy in combination with both steroids and an immunomodulator (n=137; n=69 Entyvio), rates of SIs (11.5% vs 13.9%, OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.31-2.07) and SAEs (14% vs 14%, OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.27-1.65) were similar between Entyvio and TNF?-antagonist treated patients. Concomitant immunosuppressive use was associated with an increased risk for both SI and SAE, and rates were similar between Entyvio and TNF?-antagonist therapy when using concomitant immunosuppressive therapy.**"As we add to the extensive body of real-world evidence supporting the safety profile of Entyvio, it is encouraging to see the lower rates of serious infections and adverse events as compared to TNF?-antagonist therapy in this rigorous analysis," said Parambir Dulai, M.D., Research Fellow, University of California San Diego, and Lead Investigator of the VICTORY Consortium analyses. "Further studies will seek to understand the potential impact of gut-selective treatment versus systemic immunosuppression on clinical safety in the real world."Further safety analyses from the GEMINI studies, also presented at DDW, support the safety profile of Entyvio. Results from a post-hoc analysis of interim data from the GEMINI long-term safety study (n=421; UC 190; CD 231) show nearly two-thirds of patients with UC (64%) and more than half with CD (55%) persisted with Entyvio treatment for three years, with low rates of discontinuation due to AEs, and treatment persistence rates higher in patients without versus with prior TNF?-antagonist failure (UC p=0.18: 69% vs 61%; CD p<0.01: 68% vs 51%). In addition, the GEMINI open-label extension (OLE) study showed that patients who were TNF?-antagonist therapy naive experienced significantly fewer AEs (94 vs 275 per 100 patient-years) and SAEs (10 vs 18 per 100 patient-years) compared to TNF?-antagonist -experienced patients. Data from the GEMINI post-marketing (PM) setting were also analyzed and reported that a similar number of patients reported AEs in both groups, but limitations of PM safety reports, including incomplete data, must be considered when interpreting these results."Long-term remission and a well-established safety profile are key factors when it comes to treating chronic conditions like UC and CD," said Karen Lasch, M.D., Medical Head, GI Specialty, U.S. Medical Office, Takeda. "We are grateful for the work of groups like the VICTORY Consortium and pleased that results from multiple studies continue to support the safety and effectiveness of Entyvio."For a full list of poster titles and authors at this year's DDW meeting visit, http://www.ddw.org/attendee-planning/online-planner.*Propensity score matching (1:1) accounting for age, sex, prior disease-related hospitalization within the previous year, disease phenotype (stricturing or penetrating complication history for CD, disease extent for UC), disease severity, prior bowel surgery for CD, steroid refractoriness or dependence, and prior TNF?-antagonist failure.** Rates of SIs and SAEs were compared using logistic regression analyses between matched patients; SIs were defined as requiring antibiotics or hospitalization or resulting in discontinuation or death, and SAEs as SI or non-infectious adverse events resulting in discontinuation or death.About Entyvio (vedolizumab)Vedolizumab is a gut-selective immunosuppressive biologic. It is a humanized monoclonal antibody that is designed to specifically antagonize the alpha4beta7 integrin, inhibiting the binding of alpha4beta7 integrin to intestinal mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule 1 (MAdCAM-1) and fibronectin, but not vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1). MAdCAM-1 is preferentially expressed on blood vessels and lymph nodes of the gastrointestinal tract. The alpha4beta7 integrin is expressed on a subset of circulating white blood cells. These cells have been shown to play a role in mediating the inflammatory process in UC and CD. By inhibiting alpha4beta7 integrin, vedolizumab may limit the ability of certain white blood cells to infiltrate gut tissues.About the VICTORY ConsortiumThe VICTORY (Vedolizumab Health OuTComes in InflammatORY Bowel Diseases) Consortium is a collaboration currently comprised of 16 leading inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) centers from across the U.S. and represents the first large, well-characterized cohort of patients taking Entyvio in a real-world setting in the U.S. Patients included in the consortium were identified at each site through electronic medical record searches, review of clinical records, and/or queries of infusion center records. More than 1,700 UC and CD patients are now included in the consortium database, which was started when Entyvio was launched in the U.S. in 2014.About Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's DiseaseUlcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are two of the most common forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Both UC and CD are chronic, relapsing, remitting, inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that are often progressive in nature. UC only involves the large intestine as opposed to CD which can affect any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus. CD can also affect the entire thickness of the bowel wall, while UC only involves the innermost lining of the large intestine. UC commonly presents with symptoms of abdominal discomfort, loose bowel movements, including blood or pus. CD commonly presents with symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. The cause of UC or CD is not fully understood; however, recent research suggests hereditary, genetics, environmental factors, and/or an abnormal immune response to microbial antigens in genetically predisposed individuals can lead to UC or CD.Therapeutic IndicationsUlcerative colitisVedolizumab is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis who have had an inadequate response with, lost response to, or were intolerant to either conventional therapy or a tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF?) antagonist.Crohn's diseaseVedolizumab is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease who have had an inadequate response with, lost response to, or were intolerant to either conventional therapy or a tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF?) antagonist.Important Safety InformationContraindicationsHypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.Special warnings and special precautions for useVedolizumab should be administered by a healthcare professional equipped to manage hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, if they occur. Appropriate monitoring and medical support measures should be available for immediate use when administering vedolizumab. Observe all patients during infusion and until the infusion is complete.Infusion-related reactionsIn clinical studies, infusion-related reactions (IRR) and hypersensitivity reactions have been reported, with the majority being mild to moderate in severity. If a severe IRR, anaphylactic reaction, or other severe reaction occurs, administration of vedolizumab must be discontinued immediately and appropriate treatment initiated (e.g., epinephrine and antihistamines). If a mild to moderate IRR occurs, the infusion rate can be slowed or interrupted and appropriate treatment initiated (e.g., epinephrine and antihistamines). Once the mild or moderate IRR subsides, continue the infusion. Physicians should consider pre-treatment (e.g., with antihistamine, hydrocortisone and/or paracetamol) prior to the next infusion for patients with a history of mild to moderate IRR to vedolizumab, in order to minimize their risks.InfectionsVedolizumab is a gut-selective integrin antagonist with no identified systemic immunosuppressive activity. Physicians should be aware of the potential increased risk of opportunistic infections or infections for which the gut is a defensive barrier. Vedolizumab treatment is not to be initiated in patients with active, severe infections such as tuberculosis, sepsis, cytomegalovirus, listeriosis, and opportunistic infections until the infections are controlled, and physicians should consider withholding treatment in patients who develop a severe infection while on chronic treatment with vedolizumab. Caution should be exercised when considering the use of vedolizumab in patients with a controlled chronic severe infection or a history of recurring severe infections. Patients should be monitored closely for infections before, during and after treatment. Before starting treatment with vedolizumab, screening for tuberculosis may be considered according to local practice. Some integrin antagonists and some systemic immunosuppressive agents have been associated with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), which is a rare and often fatal opportunistic infection caused by the John Cunningham (JC) virus. By binding to the ?4?7 integrin expressed on gut-homing lymphocytes, vedolizumab exerts an immunosuppressive effect on the gut. Although no systemic immunosuppressive effect was noted in healthy subjects, the effects on systemic immune system function in patients with inflammatory bowel disease are not known. No cases of PML were reported in clinical studies of vedolizumab however, healthcare professionals should monitor patients on vedolizumab for any new onset or worsening of neurological signs and symptoms, and consider neurological referral if they occur. If PML is suspected, treatment with vedolizumab must be withheld; if confirmed, treatment must be permanently discontinued. Typical signs and symptoms associated with PML are diverse, progress over days to weeks, and include progressive weakness on one side of the body, clumsiness of limbs, disturbance of vision, and changes in thinking, memory, and orientation leading to confusion and personality changes. The progression of deficits usually leads to death or severe disability over weeks or months.MalignanciesThe risk of malignancy is increased in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Immunomodulatory medicinal products may increase the risk of malignancy.Prior and concurrent use of biological productsNo vedolizumab clinical trial data are available for patients previously treated with natalizumab. Caution should be exercised when considering the use of vedolizumab in these patients. No clinical trial data for concomitant use of vedolizumab with biologic immunosuppressants are available. Therefore, the use of vedolizumab in such patients is not recommended.VaccinationsPrior to initiating treatment with vedolizumab all patients should be brought up to date with all recommended immunizations. Patients receiving vedolizumab may receive non-live vaccines (e.g., subunit or inactivated vaccines) and may receive live vaccines only if the benefits outweigh the risks.Adverse reactions include: Nasopharyngitis, Headache, Arthralgia, Upper respiratory tract infection, Bronchitis, Influenza, Sinusitis, Cough, Oropharyngeal pain, Nausea, Rash, Pruritus, Back pain, Pain in extremities, Pyrexia, and Fatigue.Please consult with your local regulatory agency for approved labeling in your country.For U.S. audiences, please see the full Prescribing Information (https://general.takedapharm.com/ENTYVIOPI) including Medication Guide (https://general.takedapharm.com/ENTYVIOMG) for ENTYVIO.For EU audiences, please see the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) (http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_ library/EPAR_-_Product_Information/human/002782/WC500168528.pdf) for ENTYVIO.Takeda's Commitment to GastroenterologyGastrointestinal (GI) diseases can be complex, debilitating and life-changing. Recognizing this unmet need, Takeda and our collaboration partners have focused on improving the lives of patients through the delivery of innovative medicines and dedicated patient disease support programs for over 25 years. Takeda aspires to advance how patients manage their disease. Additionally, Takeda is leading in areas of gastroenterology associated with high unmet need, such as inflammatory bowel disease, acid-related diseases and motility disorders. Our GI Research & Development team is also exploring solutions in celiac disease and liver diseases, as well as scientific advancements through microbiome therapies.About Takeda Pharmaceutical Company LimitedTakeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE: 4502) (https://www.takeda.com/investors/) is a global, research and development-driven pharmaceutical company committed to bringing better health and a brighter future to patients by translating science into life-changing medicines. Takeda focuses its R&D efforts on oncology, gastroenterology and neuroscience therapeutic areas plus vaccines. Takeda conducts R&D both internally and with partners to stay at the leading edge of innovation. Innovative products, especially in oncology and gastroenterology, as well as Takeda's presence in emerging markets, are currently fueling the growth of Takeda. Around 30,000 Takeda employees are committed to improving quality of life for patients, working with Takeda's partners in health care in more than 70 countries.For more information, visit https://www.takeda.com/newsroom/.ots Originaltext: Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited Im Internet recherchierbar: http://www.presseportal.deContact: For media outside Japan Luke Willats Tel: +41-44-555-1145 Luke.Willats@takeda.com For Japanese media Kazumi Kobayashi Tel: +81-3-3278-2095 kazumi.kobayashi@takeda.comDarmstadt, Germany (ots/PRNewswire) -ASCO Abstract #Tepotinib (c-Met kinase inhibitor): 9082, 9016; M7824 (TGF- trap/anti-PD-L1): 3007, 9017, 2566; M2698 (dual p70S6k/Akt inhibitor): 2584; M6620 (ATR inhibitor): 2549; M3814 (DNA-PK): 2518Not intended for UK- or US-based media- Data from an ongoing Phase II tepotinib study show anti-tumor clinical activity in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations - Patients with advanced lung cancer harboring MET exon 14 mutations currently have a poor prognosis and limited treatment options - Safety data are consistent with data previously reported, with no new safety signals identifiedMerck, a leading science and technology company, today announced that the investigational, targeted therapy tepotinib[*] has shown clinical activity in an ongoing Phase II study of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations. Data from the VISION trial will be presented during the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2018 Annual Meeting in Chicago, June 1-5, 2018."Patients living with advanced non-small cell lung cancer harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations have limited treatment options available to them and typically face poor clinical outcomes," said investigator Enriqueta Felip, M.D., Medical Oncologist, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO). "More than half of the patients in the Phase II VISION study had an investigator-assessed confirmed response, demonstrating the potential of tepotinib and the need to further evaluate this precision medicine option."Initial data from the Phase II VISION study of tepotinib in patients living with advanced NSCLC harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations will be presented today at ASCO during the "Lung Cancer-Non-Small Cell Metastatic" poster discussion session, 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. CDT. Treatment with tepotinib led to a confirmed complete response (CR) or confirmed partial response (PR) in 53.6% (15/28) and stable disease (SD) in 17.9% (5/28) of patients based on investigator assessment. Based on independent assessment of updated data from 28 patients (patients with at least 2 post-baseline assessments or who discontinued for any reason), 42.9% (12/28) had a PR and 21.4% (6/28) had SD.In this ongoing study, the safety data are consistent with that observed in previous studies; no new safety signals have been identified to date. A total of 26 out of 38 patients with data available experienced treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), most commonly Grade 1/2 peripheral edema (13 patients) and diarrhea (10 patients). Seven patients reported Grade 3 TRAEs, including asymptomatic amylase increase (2 patients) and one instance each of: asthenia, generalized edema, aspartate aminotransferase increase, gamma-glutamyl transferase increase, lipase increase, hyperkalemia, dizziness and pneumonia. Four patients experienced serious TRAEs, with one instance of pneumonia, generalized edema, asthenia and dizziness, and interstitial lung disease. The VISION study is continuing to enroll patients harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations from Europe, United States and Japan."These data support our plans to continue with the clinical development of tepotinib in this particularly aggressive, advanced lung cancer. Patients with this form of non-small cell lung cancer currently have a poor prognosis and limited treatment options," said Luciano Rossetti, M.D., Executive Vice President, Global Head of Research & Development at the biopharma business of Merck. "Tepotinib is an important late-stage investigational therapy and a key part of our strategic focus on innovative precision medicines."Tepotinib, discovered in-house at Merck, is an investigational inhibitor of the c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase. Alterations of the c-Met signaling pathway are found in various cancer types and correlate with aggressive tumor behavior and poor clinical prognosis. Tepotinib has been designed with the potential to improve outcomes in aggressive tumors that have a poor prognosis and harbor these specific mutations. In March, the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare granted SAKIGAKE 'fast-track' designation to tepotinib in patients with NSCLC harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations.Presentation Date Title Lead Author Abstract # / Time (CDT) LocationTepotinib Poster Sessions Can duration of response be used as a surrogate endpoint for overall survival in advanced non-small cell Boris M Sun, Jun 03, 8:00 lung cancer? Pfeiffer 9082 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Hall A Poster Discussion Tepotinib in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring MET exon 14-skipping mutations: Phase Enriqueta Sun, Jun 03, 11:30 II trial. Felip, M.D. 9016 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Arie Crown TheaterIn addition to tepotinib, Merck is sharing data from across its oncology and immuno-oncology pipeline at ASCO 2018, including investigational immunotherapy M7824 and updates from its DNA Damage Response portfolio. Merck is committed to exploring an array of targets and taking creative scientific approaches to developing novel therapies for hard-to-treat cancers.*Tepotinib is the recommended International Nonproprietary Name (INN) for the c-Met kinase inhibitor (MSC 2156119J). Tepotinib is currently under clinical investigation and not approved for any use anywhere in the world.About Non-Small Cell Lung CancerGlobally, lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in men and the second most common in women,[1] responsible for more deaths than colon, breast and prostate cancer combined.[2] NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for 80 to 85% of all lung cancers.[3] MET exon 14 skipping mutations occur in 3-4% of lung cancers.[5],[6] The five-year survival rate for people diagnosed with lung cancer that has spread (metastasized) to other areas of the body is 1%.[4]About TepotinibTepotinib is an investigational, small-molecule inhibitor of the c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase discovered in-house at Merck. Alterations of the c-Met signaling pathway are found in various cancer types and correlate with aggressive tumor behavior and poor clinical prognosis. Tepotinib is currently being investigated in a Phase II study in NSCLC.About SAKIGAKESAKIGAKE designation is granted by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, promoting research and development in Japan and aiming at early practical application for innovative pharmaceutical products, medical devices and regenerative medicines. SAKIGAKE designation can reduce a drug's review period down from 12 months to a target of 6 months.The system's objective is to designate drugs that have the potential of prominent effectiveness against serious and life-threatening diseases in order to make them available to patients in Japan ahead of the rest of the world.All Merck Press Releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Website. Please go to http://www.merckgroup.com/subscribe to register online, change your selection or discontinue this service.About MerckMerck is a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science and performance materials. Almost 53,000 employees work to further develop technologies that improve and enhance life - from biopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer or multiple sclerosis, cutting-edge systems for scientific research and production, to liquid crystals for smartphones and LCD televisions. In 2017, Merck generated sales of EUR 15.3 billion in 66 countries.Founded in 1668, Merck is the world's oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company. The founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed corporate group. Merck holds the global rights to the Merck name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the company operates as EMD Serono, MilliporeSigma and EMD Performance Materials.References1. American Cancer Society (2015) Global facts & figures third edition. Available from: http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/content/ @research/documents/document/acspc-044738.pdf. Accessed February 2018 2. American Cancer Society (2017) Key statistics for lung cancer. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-small-cell-lung- cancer/about/key-statistics.html. Accessed February 2018. 3. American Cancer Society (2016) What is non-small cell lung cancer? Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-small-cell-lung- cancer/about/what-is-non-small-cell-lung-cancer.html. Accessed February 2018. 4. Cancer.net. Lung cancer - non-small cell: statistics. Available from: http://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/lung-cancer-non-small-cel l/statistics. Accessed February 2018. 5. Lutterbach B et al. Lung cancer cell lines harboring MET gene amplification are dependent on Met for growth and survival. Cancer Res. (2007) 67(5):2081-8. 6. Wong MCS, et al. Incidence and mortality of lung cancer: global trends and association with socioeconomic status. Sci. Rep. (2017) 7:143000: doi: 10.1038/s41598-017-14513-7. (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-14513-7)Contact: Brenda Mulligan +978-821-5345(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151207/293543LOGO )ots Originaltext: Merck KGaA Im Internet recherchierbar: http://www.presseportal.deTop officials of both public and private banks will on Monday brief a parliamentary panel on the issue of mounting Non-Performing Assets (NPAs)

New Delhi: Top officials of both public and private banks will on Monday brief a parliamentary panel on the issue of mounting Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and banking frauds.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance headed by Verappa Moily has called the Indian Banks' Association officials to appear before it.

The association has top officials of all the major banks in the country as its members.

As per a Lok Sabha bulletin, the panel will be briefed on the issue of rising NPAs and other matters related to banks.

Members of the panel said there will also be discussion on the recent frauds in the banks.

The meeting is being called after the RBI governor Urjit Patel had said the Central Bank did not have adequate powers to deal with public sector banks.

The panel has also called Patel to brief on the same issue later this month.

The committee was earlier briefed by Financial Services Secretary Rajiv Kumar about issues related to the banking sector.

Earlier, bankers appearing before a different parliamentary panel had said the 180-day resolution plan for NPAs under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) was not an adequate window. They had also suggested the emphasis should be on restructuring the stressed assets and that referring cases for resolution under the IBC should be the last option.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh, who is also a member of the committee, is likely to attend the meeting.

Gross NPAs of state-owned banks had crossed Rs 7.77 lakh crore at the end of December 2017, according to official data.Air India is planning to mark its 70 year anniversary of its Mumbai-London flight by inviting Indians in Britain to share their memories of early journeys

London: Air India is marking 70 years since its first flight took off from Mumbai to London in June 1948, which laid the foundations of the India-UK relationship. The national carrier is inviting members of the Indian diaspora in Britain to share their memories of the airline in its early days. The iconic first flight, on a Super Constellation aircraft, took off from Mumbai on 8 June and landed in London via Cairo and Geneva on 10 June, 1948, with just 42 passengers on board, including some Indian Nawabs (noblemen) and Maharajas (kings).

Later in June, Air India is preparing to mark the historic journey, which laid the foundations of the India-UK relationship 70 years ago. "We want to reach out to people who would have made some of these early journeys to share their memories and pictures, which we could feature in our inflight magazine and also catalogue to mark those glorious early days of air travel," said Debashis Golder, Air India Regional Manager  UK and Europe.

"Many of these journeys will mark the arrival of Indians who went on to make their life and fortunes in the UK or friends and family who made visits back and forth during a time when the availability and flight times were not what they are today. It marks an important chapter in the India-UK relationship," he said.

Golder took charge of the UK and Europe operations of Air India recently, at a time when the airline is undergoing the process of disinvestment. "It does mark a period of big change for Indian aviation, with a lot of hope that Air India will regain its days of grace and glory," he said.

The UK market is among the airline's busiest sectors, having recently added three direct flights between Birmingham and Amritsar. "This was a long-standing demand and the route is doing well, especially as it falls within the religious tourism segment  culminating at Golden Temple in Amritsar. In addition, the third or fourth generation Indians, now settled in the UK for years, visit their home state frequently to stay connected to their roots and the direct connection has certainly proved popular," said Golder.

The airline industry veteran believes a direct flight to Goa, daily flights to Ahmedabad and Canada and flights from London to Amritsar are among some of the desired routes but Air India remains constrained by airport slots.

In the UK, it is running at full capacity at Heathrow Airport and believes the strong trust factor among the Indian diaspora population has proved the key to its growth. "The only issue we faced in the past was to do with hardware and now with the Boeing 787 Dreamliners, we are among the safest and greenest airlines on the route. "Passenger feedback backs this up, because they feel less jet-lagged and more relaxed by the time they land," he said.

Air India's latest addition was Tel Aviv and for the next phase of expansion, it is looking at the African continent  with flights to East and South Africa, which the airline used to serve until the early 2000s.Pehalwan was the councillor of ward number 50, which falls under Amritsar West constituency represented by Education Minister OP Soni. Soni visited the hospital after learning about the attack.

Amritsar: A sitting municipal councillor from the Congress party was shot dead by two masked men on a motorcycle in Amritsar this evening, a senior police official said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Jagmohan Singh said Gurdeep Pehalwan was attacked when he was watching wrestling at the stadium in Goal Bagh area.

The two attackers fire seven rounds on the councillor from point-blank range and fled. Pehalwan was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed.

DCP Singh said the police suspect old enmity between Pehalwan and gangster Jaggu Bhagwan Puria to be the reason behind the attack. Puria is lodged in Amritsar Central Jail.

Pehalwan was the councillor of ward number 50, which falls under Amritsar West constituency represented by Education Minister OP Soni. Soni visited the hospital after learning about the attack.

The attack happened at a time when the security in the city has been stepped up in the wake of the anniversary of Operation Bluestar on 6 June.The Centre will bring a Bill in Parliament to ensure that schools do not assign homework to students of Classes 1 and 2, HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar has said.

Kolkata: The Centre will bring a Bill in Parliament to ensure that schools do not assign homework to students of Classes 1 and 2, HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar has said.

His remarks came in the wake of an interim order of the Madras High Court on 30 May asking the Centre to instruct state governments to reduce the weight of children's school bags and do away with homework for Classes 1 and 2.

Javadekar said he believed there cannot be learning without fun.

"I welcome the decision (of the court). We are studying the order and will definitely do whatever is required," he told a press conference.

The Union minister said the Centre will bring a no homework bill in the Monsoon Session of Parliament in compliance with the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, and hoped it will be passed.

"I believe there has to be a 'learn with fun'. Children should not be put under any pressure. We will do whatever is required to lessen the pressure on children in compliance with the court order," Javadekar said.

The high court had asked the state government to ensure that the weight of the satchels should not be more than 10 percent of the weight of the child.

Justice N Kirubakaran had also directed the Centre to instruct the state governments not to prescribe any other subjects except language and mathematics for students of Classes 1 and 2.Clean India mission and internal security are among the important agendas listed for a two-day conference of governors and Lt Governors beginning Monday at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.

New Delhi: Clean India mission and internal security are among the important agendas listed for a two-day conference of governors and Lt Governors beginning Monday at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.

This would be the 49th such conference and the second one to be presided over by President Ram Nath Kovind. The first conference of governors was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in 1949. It was presided over by C Rajagopalachari, the then governor-general of India.

The conference this year will discuss important thematic issues in various sessions. It will commence on 4 June with the inaugural address by the president. The second session will see briefings and presentations on flagship programmes of the government and on internal security, according to a statement issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan.

During this session, presentations will be made by the vice chairman and the CEO of NITI Aayog as well as by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also address the gathering, it said.

The third session will cover the theme of higher education in state universities and skill development for employability. The governor of Gujarat will be the convenor of this session. During this session, presentations will be made by the higher education secretary and Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion secretary.

In the fourth session, governors and lt governors will discuss steps taken on the report 'Rajyapal  Vikas Ke Rajdoot: Catalytic Role of Governors as Agents for Change in Society'. This report was submitted by the Committee of Governors to the president on 9 January.

The committee was constituted during the 48th conference of governors held in October 2017. Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana ESL Narasimhan will convene this session. On 5 June, the fifth session of the conference will discuss ideas on how to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. During this session, presentations will be made on Gram Swaraj Abhiyan and Swachhata Internship and Governors/Lt Governors will make suggestions. Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik shall be the convenor of this session.

In the sixth and concluding session, brief presentations on the deliberations in the previous thematic sessions will be made by the convenor governors. President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, the prime minister, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will address the concluding session.

A special session on Union territories will be held on 5 June at which Lt Governors or administrators will discuss the status of implementation of various flagship programmes. The cabinet secretary, the home secretary and other senior officials will be part of the meeting. Governors and Lt Governors of all states and Union territories will attend the conference.

The vice president, the prime minister, Union ministers of home affairs, external affairs, human resource development, skill development, and entrepreneurship; the minster of state of ministry of culture and vice chairman and CEO of NITI Aayog will also participate apart from senior officials from various ministries.The modus operandi of the gang-members was to kill the target, commit dacoity and then disperse to far off places, Garg said in a press conference.

Kurukshetra: The police claimed to have solved a double murder case in Pandarsi village near Kurukshetra by arresting 11 members of a Bawaria gang from different parts of the country, on Sunday.

Superintendent of Police Abhishek Garg told reporters that 11 people, including three women, were arrested from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh following simultaneous raids made by six special teams of the police on Saturday.

The raids were made after the gang was identified through technical data and surveillance, he said, adding one of the arrested accused was trying to escape to Nepal.

The modus operandi of the gang-members was to kill the target, commit dacoity and then disperse to far off places, Garg said in a press conference.

He also said after scanning CCTV footage, it was found that 17 members of the gang were involved in the crime.

Arriving in Kurukshetra five days before committing the crime, the gang members conducted a recce of the area and found that Arjun Balmiki (75), Raj Kumar Balmiki (43) and Sandeep Kumar (27) used to sleep inside a temporary barbed boundary wall for keeping a herd of sheep.

The enclosure was far away from the village at an isolated place near the railway track.

The arrested accused have confessed to killing Arjun and Raj Kumar, while seriously injuring Sandeep on 22 May and stealing the sheep, the police officer said.

Garg said the accused would be produced before a court here and police remand would be sought to recover weapon of crime and the stolen sheep.

He said that records of the accused would be investigated to find out their other crimes.The Indian Navy on Sunday evacuated 38 stranded Indians from Socotra island in Yemen where they got stuck after a cyclone hit the area 10 days ago, forcing India to launch an operation to rescue them. All are reported to be safe.

New Delhi: The Indian Navy on Sunday evacuated 38 stranded Indians from Socotra island in Yemen where they got stuck after a cyclone hit the area 10 days ago, forcing India to launch an operation to rescue them. All are reported to be safe.

The navy evacuated the Indians as part of operation 'NISTAR' carried out off the coast of Socotra early on Sunday and embarked them at Indian naval ship INS Sunya to bring them back to India, a Navy spokesperson said.

"INS Sunya pressed into action to evacuate the 38 Indian nationals from Socotra. The evacuated Indians were ... immediately provided with medical care, food, water and telephone facilities to call and reassure their families. All have been reported to be safe. Post evacuation, the ship would be proceeding towards Porbandar," he said.

A severe cyclonic storm Mekenu crossed the Yemeni Island of Socotra on 24 May, leaving 38 Indians stranded on the island with limited food and water.

The navy deployed INS Sunya in Western Arabian Sea for the humanitarian and disaster relief operation just after it received a distress call from the Directorate General of Shipping and the Indian Sailing Vessels Association.

"We got information that three Indian Dhows  a lateen rigged ship with one or two masts  at Socotra suffered damages and sank alongside in the harbour after the cyclone hit the area," said the official.

"As we got the inputs about another Dhow, MSV Safina Al Khijar, with 12 Indians on board missing, the Indian Navy undertook two aerial sorties on 27 and 28 May to search for the missing Indians," he added.Welcome Guest! You Are Here:

Home Regional News EastFormer media executive Indrani Mukerjea, a key accused in the murder of her daughter Sheena Bora, was admitted to the JJ Hospital in Mumbai on Saturday

Mumbai: Former media executive Indrani Mukerjea, a key accused in the murder of her daughter Sheena Bora, was admitted to the JJ Hospital in Mumbai on Saturday night after she complained of chest pain.

She was discharged from the hospital around 7.30 pm after her test results came out normal, a senior doctor at the hospital said. She was taken back to the Byculla prison.

The 46-year-old co-founder of INX media, lodged in the Byculla women's jail since her arrest in 2015, was brought to the state-run medical facility at 11.30 pm on Saturday with a "history of chest pain and discomfort", SD Nanandkar, JJ Hospital dean, had said earlier.

Mukerjea underwent a series of medical tests after she was admitted to the critical care unit (CCU) of the hospital, he said.

"Accordingly, a clinical evaluation was done. ECG (electrocardiogram) showed mild changes (in heart rhythm), while her chest X-ray report was normal.

"Her MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) test report of the neck was awaited. Her condition is not serious. Some tests related to cardiology are pending," Nanandkar had said.

This was the second time in two months that Mukerjea was admitted to the hospital.

In April, Mukerjea was admitted to the hospital in a "semi-conscious" condition.

She subsequently underwent a series of medical tests. The hospital authorities had then said she had an overdose of anti-depressants that were not prescribed to her.

In October 2015, a few months after her arrest in the case, she was rushed to the hospital in an unconscious state. It was then suspected that she had drug overdose.

Mukerjea is facing trial for allegedly killing her daughter Sheena Bora.

Bora (24) was killed and her body disposed of in a forest area in the neighbouring Raigad district in April 2012, according to the police.

Mukerjea, her former husband Sanjeev Khanna and driver Shyamvar Rai were arrested for the crime which came to light in August 2015.

Rai later turned an approver (prosecution witness) in the case.

Bora, Mukerjea's daughter from an earlier relationship, was killed over a financial dispute, the Central Bureau of Investigation, which is probing the case, said.

The agency later arrested Mukerjea's husband Peter Mukerjea, a former media baron, for allegedly being part of the murder conspiracy.

The high-profile case, which has attracted a lot of media attention, was initially handled by the Mumbai Police and later transferred to the CBI.The unilateral ceasefire during the holy month of Ramzan may have brought a halt to anti-militancy operations in Kashmir but security agencies have warned of a rise in recruitment of local youths into militant groups

Srinagar: The unilateral ceasefire during the holy month of Ramzan may have brought a halt to anti-militancy operations in Kashmir but security agencies have warned of a rise in recruitment of local youths into militant groups, that has crossed 80, and a rise in infiltration from various sides of the Line of Control (LoC).

The security agency officials said the highly-volatile Shopian and Pulwama districts in South Kashmir continued to contribute more youths to the militant groups which included outfits like the Kashmir unit of Islamic State and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, a group which claims support of the Al-Qaeda.

As many as 20 more youths have joined the militant groups in the month of May which included Rouf from Ganderbal, a fourth-semester student pursuing a diploma course in government polytechnic, the officials said.

An Unani doctor, the brother of IPS officer Inamulhaq Mengnoo, has also been reported missing from Shopian and it is apprehended that he too may have joined terror groups, they said, adding that the figure at the end of April 2018 was 45.

The officials said another 16 were missing mainly from the twin districts and a probe was on to ascertain whether they have joined any terror group. The officials said infiltration was also picking up and some of the terrorists had managed to sneak in from Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu region as well as from the LoC in the Kashmir Valley. This created a more alarming situation for the security forces which were readying themselves for the two-month long Amarnath Yatra beginning at the end of July.

The year 2018, according to the officials, may end up as the worst year in terms of number of youths joining various militant groups as the figures indicated that 81 youths had joined until May 2018. In 2017, a total of 126 youths had picked up guns. It was the highest number since 2010, according to a recent data presented in the state Assembly and Parliament.

There has been a steady rise in the number of youth taking up arms in the Valley since 2014 onwards as compared to 2010-2013 when figures stood at 54, 23, 21 and six in the respective years. In 2014, the number shot up to 53 and in 2015, it reached 66 before touching the highest mark of 88 in 2016, the data showed.

This year's recruitment of youth joining militancy includes Junaid Ashraf Sehrai, 26, an MBA degree holder from Kashmir University, and son of Mohammed Ashraf Sehrai, who took over as chairman of Tehrek-e-Hurriyat from Syed Ali Shah Geelani. Teherik-e-Hurriyat is a pro-Pakistan amalgam of separatists groups. The list also includes a 26-year-old PhD scholar Mannan Bashir Wani hailing from Kupwara, officials said. Wani was studying in the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).

According to a report prepared by the Jammu and Kashmir CID, which has been shared with the Union home ministry, the past three years have witnessed a consistent rise in the number of active local militants even in the face of successful anti-militancy operations undertaken by the security forces.

"It therefore becomes imperative for the state to deconstruct why, while militants are being killed, militancy continues to rise," the report had said. The report said the situation is such that terrorists encounters "have turned into a spectacle in the recent years with attacks on encounter sites by protesters followed by glamourised funerals."

"The entire phenomenon has had a tendency to create an emotionally charged environment which is ideal for recruiting fresh cadres," it said.

The report, while drawing a correlation between the militants killed in encounters and the new recruitment, said, "It has been found that encounters of local militants are part of a vicious circle that acts as a catalyst to push further recruitment."

"Large glorified funerals of militants have also been witnessing presence of active militants who give gun salutes to their killed associate."

"The presence of militants in these funerals not only eulogises the deaths of militants but at the same time brings the active militants into open interaction with civilians," the report said, warning that such an interaction was one of the important steps in facilitating recruitment.Srinagar: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) reacted sharply to the Jammu and Kashmir Police registering a case of rash and negligent driving against its driver in the case of Kaiser Ahmed, the youth who died after being run over by its vehicle and termed the charges 'baseless.'

Srinagar: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) reacted sharply to the Jammu and Kashmir Police registering a case of rash and negligent driving against its driver in the case of Kaiser Ahmed, the youth who died after being run over by its vehicle and termed the charges "baseless."

Ahmed died on Friday after being run over by a CRPF vehicle outside Jamia MasjidKashmirs largest mosqueafter he offered prayers. Meanwhile, Ahmed's family has demanded that CRPF personnel, including a senior officer who was in the vehicle, be booked for murder.

Even as Kaiser succumbed to his injuries on Friday, Mohammad Younis Bhat was wounded and is undergoing treatment at the Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS). Ahmed's family said he had not been pelting stones and was heading home to the nearby Fatehkadal area on his motorbike.

Jammu and Kashmir Police said they registered a case under Section 304-A of Ranbir Penal Code (RPC) against the CRPF driver for causing death due to rash and negligent driving while the youth who were pelting stones on the vehicle were booked for attempt to murder under Section 307 of RPC.

We will seek the arrest of the driver. We will carry out the formalities and collect the medico-legal documents of the boy and record statements. After the vehicle is identified and seized, the arrest will be made, said Superintendent of Police Sajad Ahmad.

Sajad added that CRPF vehicle was stopped by the youth at Shampora Chowk in Nowhatta area of Srinagar where Ahmed was killed. A police official also said that earlier, only a case of injury caused due to rash driving was registered, and under that offence the police can release the driver on bail after a written assurance that he will present himself at the police station when summoned.

However, CRPF spokesman Sanjay Sharma termed the case against the driver "baseless": "There was no scope for the vehicle to even crawl. Our officer and personnel managed to escape else they'd have been lynched." Sharma added that besides the second-in-command of the 28 Battalion of CRPF, the vehicle was carrying four other personnel.

"Those four people were part of his escort. The CRPF officer was on duty and the crowd had no business surrounding the vehicle. The crowd was looking for a soft target. The gentleman was not going for a picnic, he was there to check the deployment, Sharma added. Sharma further said that if the police arrest their driver, the CRPF would contest the charge.

Even as the Jammu and Kashmir Police said they would arrest the driver, separatists and Ahmed's family accused the cops of "covering up the crime." The Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL) said that the police registered a case of only rash driving even though it was plainly a case of murder. The JRL said, "They (security forces) are killing Kashmiris either by bullets, pellets or lately crushing them under their vehicles.

Ahmed's family accused the police of trying to stop the funeral procession from their Fatehkadal residence in Srinagar to the graveyard in Eidgah, where he was buried. The police fired tear gas shells on the mourners which left many injured, said Ahmed's 27-year-old cousin Suheem Ashraf.

Suheem also demanded that murder charges should be pressed against the CRPF personnel. He added that the body was ferried in a truck to the graveyard and many people couldnt offer funeral prayers after the use of excessive force by the police.

Ahmed is survived by two sisters, one of whom is pursuing a law degree and the other is in Class 11. Ahmed's parents died a few years ago. Some of Ahmed's family also said they feared reprisals if they continue their pursuit of justice.

Suheem said that after the driver remorselessly ran over his cousin, Ahmed was taken to a local hospital by some youth. He added that after Ahmed's condition worsened, he was taken for specialised treatment to SKIMS where he eventually passed away.

Images of Ahmed being run over have gone viral, leading to protests on streets and an outpouring of emotion on social networking sites accusing the police of being "soft" on security forces. Human rights activists say that in most cases, the security forces use Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) to not allow trials in criminal cases in local courts,

Major Leetul Gogoi, who used a Kashmiri citizen as a human shield wasn't even arrested. Which shows how soft the police is on the army and CRPF," said human rights activist Ehsan Untoo.

Frequent clashes occur between security forces and youth near the Jamia Masjid. Two weeks ago, many youth were injured after security forces fired pellets and lobbed tear gas at those raising anti-India and pro-freedom slogans.The affidavit also has findings of the medical board which was constituted after the crime branch found inconsistencies in the age of the juvenile, who remains unnamed because of his minor status and whose case is being heard by the Juvenile Board in Kathua.

Srinagar: An application filed by a father 14 years ago, to register the birth of his three children, is the centerpiece of the Jammu and Kashmir Police's plea that the juvenile accused in the rape and murder of an eight-year-old in Kathua be tried as an adult and not a minor.

The crime branch of the state police, which has contested the trial court's decision to treat the 'juvenile' as a minor has annexed the application in its petition before the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, officials said.

The application is riddled with careless mistakes and raised doubts about its veracity, they said.

The report of a medical board of experts, which determines the age of the juvenile, one of the eight accused in the case, has put his age as not less than 19 and not more than 23, has also been attached.

The court will hear the matter on 6 June.

According to the petition, the application filed by the father in the tehsildar's (revenue officer) office in Hiranagar in Jammu province on 15 April, 2004 makes for an "interesting" read and has "imaginary" entries.

The father had been asked for a birth certificate for his eldest child, a boy, whose date of birth is stated as 23 November, 1997, his daughter, said to be born on 21 February, 1998, and the youngest, the Kathua accused, on 23 October, 2002, it says.

A "perusal" of the date of birth of the two elder children reveals a difference of two months and 28 days, "which by any medical standard is impossible", it states.

This, it says, indicates a casual approach adopted by the father in furnishing the particulars of the date of birth.

While no place of birth has been mentioned for the older two, the juvenile is said to be born in a Hiranagar hospital. But a subsequent investigation to test out the veracity of that statement did not bear that out, officials said.

An SIT sent a questionnaire to the block medical officer of Hiranagar and asked for records of the juvenile's birth along with the particulars of the parents.

However, the block medical officer categorically stated after verifying the records in the hospital that no delivery in the name of the juvenile's mother had taken place on 23 October, 2002, the affidavit says.

All the documents have been attached with the petition.

"...in fact these entries were imaginary, and without any supporting birth record of either Municipal Committee or Primary Health Centre where the birth of the respondent (juvenile) is stated to have taken place," reads the affidavit submitted by the police.

The affidavit also has findings of the medical board which was constituted after the crime branch found inconsistencies in the age of the juvenile, who remains unnamed because of his minor status and whose case is being heard by the Juvenile Board in Kathua.

The other seven accused are being tried in a court in Pathankot, Punjab, following a Supreme Court order shifting the hearing.

According to the charge sheet in the case filed by the crime branch, the juvenile was instrumental in the abduction, gang rape and killing of the child, in January this year.

The medical board, comprising specialists from different departments, including a physiologist, dental examiner, radiologist and forensic experts, submitted a report based on various clinical tests and the physical appearance of the juvenile that he was not less than 19 and not more than 23.

The affidavit says the case had attracted the attention of public at large at national and international level in view of the age of the victim.

"A casual and cavalier approach in determining the age of juvenile involved in such a case would not meet the ends of justice.

....the placement of reliance by the court below only on the shaky municipal birth record was unwarranted in law and approach adopted was not commendable. The impugned order has caused serious miscarriage of justice," it says, while asking that the trial court order treating him as a juvenile be set aside.

Not doing so would be a "travesty of justice", it says, "where it is established from initial to the subsequent investigations that the respondent has played a leading role in the kidnapping, gang rape and murder of the victim".DMK president M Karunanidhi turned 95 on Sunday with a host of leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi extending their greetings.

Chennai: DMK president M Karunanidhi turned 95 on Sunday with a host of leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi extending their greetings.

The veteran politician's Gopalapuram residence was decked with flowers as scores of party cadres began to converge since last night and cut a cake to mark the occasion.

Sweets were distributed among party workers and a host of events including blood donation camp were held by the party in various places.

DMK working president and his son MK Stalin and former union minister A Raja were among those who met Karunanidhi early in the day.

The nonagenarian leader had undergone a tracheotomy procedure last year to improve breathing.

A smiling Karunanidhi made a brief appearance on the threshold of his house and waved to the waiting crowd. DMK supporters who had gathered outside the residence raised slogans hailing him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee were among those who greeted the Dravidian leader.

Narendra Modi, who called on Karunanidhi in November 2017 at his residence, extended his greetings on Twitter and shared an image of his meeting with the DMK veteran.

Best wishes to Kalaignar M.Karunanidhi Ji on his birthday. A prolific writer, poet, thinker and orator, Karunanidhi Ji is one of Indias senior most political leaders. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life. @kalaignar89 pic.twitter.com/BnZJUA4kjJ  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 3, 2018

The Congress president Rahul Gandhi also extended his birthday greetings on Twitter.

I would like to wish Shri Karunanidhi ji a very happy birthday! I pray for his good health and happiness, always.  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 3, 2018

Mamata Banerjee also wrote to M Karunanidhi on Twitter.

Warmest birthday greetings to M Karunanidhi @kalaignar89 Ji. I pray for your good health and happiness  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) June 3, 2018

The DMK supremo was first elected to the state Assembly from Kulithalai in then undivided Tiruchirappalli in 1957. He has not lost a single election he contested in his six-decade long career.Following a deadline set by the UP estates department, Mayawati has announced that she has vacated a portion of the second government bungalow.

Lucknow: Just ahead of the deadline set by the Uttar Pradesh estates department, BSP president Mayawati said on Saturday she was vacating the portion of the 13-A Mall Avenue bungalow she occupied.

She said the bungalow has already been declared a memorial to Bahujan Samaj Party founder Kanshi Ram, and its security and maintenance now will now be the state government's responsibility. The BSP has claimed that bungalow was converted into the memorial through a UP cabinet decision in 2011.

"I am vacating the portion of 13-A, Mall Avenue occupied by me till now, she told reporters. From now on, the entire bungalow in Lucknow will be 'Shri Kanshi Ram Ji Yadgar Vishram Sthal', the memorial named after Kanshi Ram," Mayawati added.

Her announcement comes just ahead of the deadline set by the UP estates department to six politicians who were allotted official accommodation as former chief ministers.

The UP government order followed a Supreme Court verdict on 7 May that former chief ministers were not allowed government bungalows.

While the estates department served notice to Mayawati to move out of the 13-A Mall Avenue bungalow, she vacated another house at 6, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, saying that was the one allotted to her as a former chief minister.

"All know that Kanshi Ram had been member of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha from UP and after 1995, during his Lucknow visits, he used to stay at the 13-A, Mall Avenue bungalow allotted to me... so it was converted into a memorial named after him," she said. "I used to stay in a small portion of this bungalow and I was allotted another bungalow at 6, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, which I have already vacated," she said.

But the estates department has already rejected Mayawati's claim that the 13-A, Mall Avenue is Kanshi Ram's memorial, while maintaining that the second bungalow that she vacated had been under her illegal possession.

Inviting the media to tour the entire premises, Mayawati said the exhibits there related to Kanshi Ram and "his one and only inheritor Mayawati, as per his will."

On speculation in the media that she was not going to vacate the bungalow, the BSP chief said she had been given 15 days time under the notice. The BSP chief claimed she was aware of the pressure on the media to play up the issue to divert the people's attention from the drubbing suffered by the ruling BJP in the recent bypolls.

"The people have taught the BJP a lesson with a stunning defeat in Kairana, after Phulpur and Gorakhpur, even though they misused government machinery, she said.

She said the people have shown the BJP that they will not get influenced by big promises and communal passions. The countdown for the BJP government has begun in the country," she said.

"It is to brush aside the news of their defeat that the BJP used its full might to spread reports that Mayawati is not vacating the bungalow," she added.Prime Minister Narendra Modi must not continue to allow his ministers to contribute to undercutting of the uniform with needless provocations.

As the 2019 Lok Sabha election draws closer, many people are speaking in the media about possible scenarios and freely handing out advice. Out of these, one counsel stands apart  there seems to be little reason for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to alienate the armed forces. Modi must not continue to allow his ministers to contribute to undercutting of the uniform with needless provocations.

Some of these actions might be magnified by an overly sensitive military mind seeking slight. However, never has social media been used by retired officers to vent as is being done these days. The outrage is real, and even army wives have joined the call to protect and preserve the institution of the armed forces. Petitions to the president are vitriolic and those to ministers of the NDA government full of resentment and pain. Even the army chief is not spared. Perhaps, the daily expression of anger loses much of its point by being repetitive. However, it is still indicative of a malaise that is spreading swiftly. To the 3.3 million retired service personnel, the feeling of being short sold is fortified by these written protests, many of which are just an inch short of dire threats.

A verbal order to open 62 cantonments to civilians has led to a recent surge of fury. This is largely because the forces see this an invasion of their privacy and security. Families who live in cantonments while the armed forces patrol our borders believe this action will rob them of peace of mind.

There is also the fear of theft of equipment and firepower by gangs and mafias who tend to operate outside these military confines.

But it is not just the access issue which is bruising the forces. The One Rank One Pension (OROP) controversy has snowballed into a soreness that now marks military-civil equations and borders dangerously on mutual contempt.

In the drift that we see, the main question is left unanswered. What is the contribution of the NDA and Modi specifically in annoying the forces and giving them the impression that they are frequently being cut to size? One has to be incredibly naive to conclude that the ties between the forces and the civilian leadership are happy. From minor carping over the sidelining of the GOC Delhi Area from his traditional position on 15 August at the Red Fort, to the playing of folk music at the prestigious Beating Retreat ceremony at Republic Day, the leap to bigger things is easy to make when the mindset is one of suspicion.

The dismay over the not so impressive line of defence ministers in these past four years is further deepened by the shortage of officers and men. There is a current deficit of 9,259 officers and 50,363 other ranks. Requests for early retirement in both categories have also spiked, with over 39,000 soldiers since 2014 asking for premature departure. This is a colossal wastage in training costs.

One would think keeping the forces reasonably happy would be a logical priority. But instead, the niggling continues.

In this atmosphere, orders to clear up tourist debris at mountain resorts, build bridges at railway stations and engage in other such civilian exercises is seen as insulting and indicative of viewing the forces as an extension of local civic bodies. The mindset seems to be, "So what if the borders are under constant threat? The nation per se is still at peace, and so one can put them to work. After all, it is not as if we are at war."

This may be true, but through history, the armies that have triumphed in battle are those which trained during peace time.A senior official from the directorate of health services said around 2,000 people who interacted with Nipah-infected have been kept under observation

Over 1,000 people have been kept under quarantine, public services severely affected, schools closed and examinations postponed due to the Nipah virus scare that has rocked Kerala and the rest of the country since May.

Ever since the first case was reported in Kerala, sixteen people have lost their lives in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts. All state government meetings scheduled to be held in the two districts in June have been postponed and several health staff, including four doctors and nurses who treated two Nipah-infected patients at the Balussery taluk hospital have been asked to go on leave.

The Public Service Commission (PSC) postponed all its written and online exams and new dates will be announced later. As a precautionary measure, residents in Kozhikode, Malappuram and Wayanad districts are remaining indoors and using protective masks when travelling.

Fear of being infected by the virus, which has a fatality rate of 70 percent, has also prompted the Thamarassery diocese, which oversees churches in Kozhikode and Malappuram revenue districts, to ask all churches to change century-old traditions on the way bread and wine are offered to congregations during Eucharistic Prayers and postpone religious classes, avoid marriages, housewarmings, family get-togethers and unnecessary travel.

As per custom, the head priest, after partaking of bread and wine, representing Jesus body and blood that is believed to be sacramentally present, invites the faithful to receive communion, usually by placing bread on their tongues. But in light of the Nipah outbreak, Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil, bishop of Thamarassery, said, From now on, bread will not be placed on tongues. It will be given in the hand.

Its a precautionary step. People are scared here. Nobody is going out. And those who are going out are using masks. People are worried a lot, the bishop added. In Kozhikode district, schools will remain closed till 12 June. People have been advised not to visit crowded areas and avoid public functions, said District Collector UV Jose.

Massive losses

The Nipah outbreak has also caused massive losses for business outlets in and around the Kozhikode Medical College. We can say that around 50 percent of our businesses are down. We are also afraid to keep our shops open, said Mohammed Iqbal, a tea seller. Bus stands are deserted. People are avoiding travel, Iqbal added.

Prabeesh K, a resident of Perambara, where the virus was first detected, said the frequency of buses in the Vadakara-Perambra route has substantially decreased.

There were around 45 buses plying the Vadakara-Perambra route, but now only about 12 buses are operational. Where around 65 buses were operational in the Kuttiadi route, now, there are only about 25, said Prabeesh. Sources in state transport corporation said that on an average they are losing Rs 2 lakh per day from the Nipah-affected areas.

NRIs stranded

Several Non-resident Indians (NRIs) from Kozhikode and Malappuram districts living in Gulf states, who are on annual leave, have been forced to postpone their travel plans. Oman, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait have issued travel advisories asking people to avoid travelling to Kerala.

They are not encouraging anyone to travel to Kozhikode and Malappuram from the Gulf. We are also scared that if we visit home, we may be denied entry on our return, said Vinod A, who works in Oman.

Travel agents based in Gulf countries said that several people have postponed their travel dates, with some opting to cancel. UAE has banned the import of vegetables from Kerala and news reports claim that Kuwait is mulling the same.

Several under observation

A senior official from the directorate of health services said around 2,000 people who interacted with Nipah-infected have been kept under observation and two persons who tested positive for the virus are stable and undergoing treatment at the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital.

Kerala health minister KK Shailaja told reporters the cause of death of a woman who was under observation for Nipah symptoms is yet to be ascertained. The directorate of health services official said the woman accompanied a patient to the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, where a Nipah-affected person was being treated.

After she fell ill, she was moved to the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital as she showed symptoms similar to that of the Nipah virus, the official said.

The author is a member of The NewsCart, a Bengaluru-based media startup.Breaking his silence on accepting an invitation to attend an RSS event at its Nagpur headquarters on 7 June, former president Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said whatever he has to say, he will say in Nagpur only.

New Delhi: Breaking his silence on accepting an invitation to attend an RSS event at its Nagpur headquarters on 7 June, former president Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said whatever he has to say, he will say in Nagpur only.

"Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur. I have received several letters, requests and phone calls, but I haven't responded to anyone yet," Mukherjee was quoted as saying by Bengali newspaper Anandabazar Patrika.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has invited Mukherjee to be the chief guest at the concluding function of "Tritiya Varsh Varg" or third-year course and address the Swayamsevaks' on 7 June.

The RSS invite to Mukherjee sparked off a controversy, as the Congress leaders expressed unhappiness over his acceptance, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Sangh saw nothing wrong in it.

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also wrote to Mukherjee requesting him not to attend the RSS event.

Earlier, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram had urged him to take the opportunity to tell the RSS what is wrong with their ideology.

"Now that he has accepted the invitation, there is no point in debating why he accepted it. The more important thing to say is, Sir you have accepted invitation, please go there and tell them what is wrong with their ideology," the former Union minister had said.

Another former Union minister CK Jaffer Sharief in a letter to Mukherjee had urged him to reconsider his decision and avoid attending the event in the interest of secularism.

Expressing surprise over former president Pranab Mukherjee's decision to attend an RSS event, West Bengal Congress chief Adhir Chowdhury had said he was unable to relate the visit with Mukherjee's previous comments against the Sangh Parivar and other Hindutva forces.

"My question is does he (Mukherjee) think his previous comments against RSS were wrong? We remember how Pranab Mukherjee as a senior leader of the Congress had come down heavily on RSS as a communal and a divisive organisation," he had said.

"I am surprised to hear about Pranab Mukherjee's decision to attend RSS's function in Nagpur. Just like any other Congressman, I am astonished too," Chowdhury, who has shared a long association with Mukherjee, said.There has been no damage to any gurudwara or other institutions belonging to the Sikh community in Meghalaya where clashes took place between a group of bus drivers and locals, Union minister Kiren Rijiju said on Sunday.

New Delhi: There has been no damage to any gurudwara or other institutions belonging to the Sikh community in Meghalaya where clashes took place between a group of bus drivers and locals, Union minister Kiren Rijiju said on Sunday.

Rijiju's comments come in the wake of the violence in Shillong on Thursday following which day curfew was imposed in 14 localities early on Friday and night curfew in the entire state capital. "Beware of rumour-mongers and troublemakers. There was no damage to any gurudwara or other institutions belonging to the Sikh minority in Meghalaya," he tweeted.

The Union minister of state for home said law and order in Shillong is under control and the state government is "extremely vigilant and settling the case." The army had staged flag marches in various localities late on Friday night after the violence.

The clashes took place in the hill town between residents of Punjabi Line and employees of state-run buses belonging to the Khasi community. Several police personnel were injured. The violence erupted after a bus handyman was allegedly assaulted by a group of residents of the area on Thursday afternoon.

Trouble escalated when rumours spread on social media that the handyman had succumbed to injuries, prompting a group of bus drivers to converge in the Punjabi Line area. The police had to fire teargas shells to disperse them. The handyman and three injured persons were taken to a hospital where they were administered first-aid.

Violence occurred in Shillong also on Friday and Saturday. Four local people were arrested on Friday.Curfew will be lifted for seven hours in curfew-bound areas in Shillong, but restrictions will remain in force, a senior government said on Saturday

Shillong: Curfew will be lifted for seven hours on Sunday in curfew-bound areas in Meghalaya's capital Shillong, but restrictions will remain in force, a senior government said on Saturday.

"Curfew would be lifted from 8 am to 3 pm on Sunday in curfew areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House areas to allow people to get their essential commodities," Deputy Commissioner in-charge of East Khasi Hills, Peter S Dkhar, told IANS.

Dkhar, however, said that suspension of internet on mobile services would continue besides prohibiting the sale of petrol, diesel etc, in loose jerricans, bottles and any other containers to public by all petrol pumps within the district.

The magistrate also appealed to the people not to trust false reports propagated in social media like attacks on gurdwara in the city.

"The situation is still tense but under control. The Indian Army is on standby and will be deployed if the situation warrants. The district administration and the state police are making all efforts to restore peace and normalcy," he said.

Dkhar imposed indefinite curfew in areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House from 4 am on Friday in view of the breakdown of law and order in Motphran, Mawkhar and adjoining areas following Thursday's clash.

The clash erupted after a skirmish between some women and a driver of Shillong Public Transport Service (SPTS) bus at Them Meteor, which led to the assault of three persons. The parties involved in the skirmish had arrived at a verbal compromise later.

A magisterial inquiry has been ordered to probe the incident as well as to identify the elements spreading rumours and inciting violence.

Making a fervent appeal to all citizens to maintain peace and extend help to bring normalcy back to the city, a government communique said, "It has been observed that false news and propaganda played a vital role in raising tempers and inciting violence.

"The members of the public are requested to remain calm and not to fall prey to rumours."

A case has been registered an an arrest made in connection with an incident in which three boys were assaulted.Curfew continued to be imposed in Shillong for the third day on Sunday after it was briefly lifted for seven hours in areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House areas.

Fifty-nine-year-old Babita Joshi (named changed) from Guwahati was horrified to switch on the television after knowing about the recent clashes in Motphran. Earlier on Thursday, she received few horrifying videos of stone-pelting and mob violence in Shillong through social media. A burning Shillong is the last thing she could ever think of even in the wildest dreams. Her childhood reminiscences started rushing down her mind; the cool hill station where she grew up and did her schooling, a place where she loved to be any time of the year, is no more the same. She remembered the old days when her friends used to call her parlok" which means friend in Khasi language.

The episode

On Thursday morning, a clash broke out between Shillong Public Transport Service (STPS) bus drivers/conductors and the residents of Them Iew Mawlong or Sweepers lane.

"The brawl took place in the morning around 9.30 to 10 am on Thursday when some ladies who were fetching water had some arguments with SPTS bus conductors as the bus was blocking their way. The ladies alleged that the driver and conductor made some lewd comments to them when they asked them to remove the bus. In the spar, three persons, among which two were minors, were allegedly assaulted by the residents of the Them Mawlong area, also known as Punjabi Line," said Davis Marak, Superintendent of Police, East Khasi Hills, in a press meet.

"In the scuffle, three persons of SPTS buses were (also) injured. But they were not admitted to the hospital. They were provided first aid and released the same day from the hospital. After police intervention the entire case was compromised between them, he added.

The situation, however, began worsening by the evening after rumours spread of the death of a Khasi youth, who was beaten by residents of Punjabi Line, on social media. This fake news went viral and created panic and anger among the Khasi locals who later assembled and started marching towards the Punjabi Line area.

Soon, an unruly mob of approximately 200 people started marching towards Punjabi Line area and started pelting stones. On the other side, people in Punjabi Line area armed themselves with deadly weapons like dagger and lathis, in order to take on the mob.

The police stopped the crowd by immediately launching a lathi charge on stone-pelters in the area. At 4 am a curfew was levied by the deputy commissioner. In the entire episode, one person was arrested and few suspects were picked up for further inquiry.

Tribal and non-tribal accounts of the clashes, and urge for Inner Line Permit

At 12 midnight in Nongpoh, 50 kilometres away from Shillong, a truck driver named Satpal Singh like any of his routine nights, was taking rest after a daylong travel. He had to leave his helper due to some emergency at his home.

As usual, 50 year-old-Satpal Singh slept inside his truck. He woke up with a jolt after one of the tyres of his truck punctured. In no time, he saw fire engulfing the back of his truck. Singh had no clue how did the truck catch fire. He had no foe in this area and he was regular on this route.

Singh immediately started throwing sand to extinguish the fire, but a petrol bomb hit his truck and his truck set ablaze in front of his eyes. He with the help of some local dhaba owners called the fire brigade and police for further action.

"I have no enemy here; I was on my routine duty. Why was my truck targeted, I have no clue," said Satpal with tears in his eyes.

The ethnic clash of Meghalaya is not a tale of today, the crisis began way back in July 1986, when the tribal Khasi Students' Union (KSU) launched an anti-foreigners agitation movement. The entire agitation affected, 75,000 Nepalis, who have been living in the state for generations.

The only motive behind the agitation was political pragmatism. It was during that time that Shillong witnessed its first Janata curfew". Roads were deserted, government offices closed, bureaucrats and ministers refrained from going to work.

The non-tribal agitation continued till November-end the same year, but violence continues to emerge every now and then.

On 9 October, 2013, Vikash Nandwal, owner of Meghalaya Machineries at Motphran, was attacked and killed.

In several occasions specially during Diwali and Kali Puja, petrol bombs are hurled at a Durga Puja pandals. Non-tribals and their businesses are regularly targeted, says Ashim Das (named changed), a non-tribal resident of Shillong.

He added that not only Nepali but everyone including Bihari, Marwari, Bengali are targeted as dokhar which means outsiders in Khasi".

Curfew continues for the third day in Shillong



Curfew continued to be imposed in Shillong for the third day on Sunday evening after it was briefly lifted from 8 am to 3 pm in areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House areas. Suspension of internet on mobile services also continued, besides prohibiting the sale of petrol, diesel, etc, in loose jerricans, bottles and any other containers to the public by all petrol pumps within the district.

"The Indian Army is on standby and will be deployed if the situation warrants. The district administration and the state police are making all efforts to restore peace and normalcy," PS Dkhar, Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, had said earlier, adding that the situation remains tense in Shillong.

An indefinite curfew was imposed in at least 14 localities of Shillong on Thursday at 4 am, and internet services were suspended. However, despite the restrictions, incidents of clashes have reportedly taken place between locals and security forces in Motphran area of the city. Night curfew has been imposed in the rest of the town as well.

Marak told Firstpost that the police has already picked up several people involved in the clashes, and more arrests are likely to take place soon.

State govt, civil society groups monitoring the situation

On Friday, Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma, home minister James K Sangma and other senior ministers reviewed the law and order situation in Shillong in a high-level meeting in the presence of senior police and civic officials.

We had a meeting on Friday, he chalked out a strategy and we had a word with local communities to calm the situation. One person is arrested for triggering the initial altercation. Most of the demands of the agitators are addressed. And after the internet was suspended, rumours in the social media has also stopped. We hope the situation will calm down soon, the state home minister said.

"We need proper action on this, this situation should come under control. The government should take a bold decision. This type of incidents have happened earlier also. We saw the very same kind of incident approx 15 years ago, said Wellbirth Rani, president, Federation of Khasi-Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP).

Civil society groups are also trying to calm down the situation, and have urged political leaders not to politicise the incident. "As a civil society organisation, we demand the immediate restoration of peace as the common man is suffering. Many are complaining it is a political plan. This incident shouldnt be politicised, thats what we demand to the people, said Agnes Kharshiing, president, Civil Society Women's Organisation (CSWO).

The way forward

"Shillong was the capital of undivided Assam. Before 1972, we saw a lively Shillong. We were part of this entire Khasi culture. From wedding to funerals, we were an integral part of their society. It hurts when we see Shillong burning on non-tribal and tribal issues, says 62-year-old Shivaji Das, a retired army man and a former resident of Shillong.

Currently, about 500 non-tribal residents of the Them Iew Mawlong area have taken shelter at an adjoining army cantonment.

I am born and brought up in Shillong. I have many Khasi friends but now they want us to go from here. A small scuffle is again boiling up into an anti-non-tribal movement, but Meghalaya is as much as mine as it is of my Khasi friends, says Roop Kumari, one of the many people who took refuge at the army cantonment.

The silver lining perhaps lies in the fact that in Shillongs landmark Police Bazaar many non-tribals from the same affected area are opening their roadside shops for the tourists whose numbers are only a few.But instead of the waiting for the mandatory 30 minutes, the uncertainty phase was activated, known as INCERFA in aviation parlance, it said.

A VIP Embraer aircraft carrying external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to South Africa had gone incommunicado for 14 minutes, triggering a mid-air scare after the Mauritius Air Traffic Control pressed the panic button, an official statement said on Sunday.

Contact could not be established with the Indian Air Force flight IFC 31 after it left Male ATC for Mauritius airspace on Saturday, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) said in a statement.

But instead of the waiting for the mandatory 30 minutes, the uncertainty phase was activated, known as INCERFA in aviation parlance, it said.

"Mauritius ATC activated the uncertainty phase without allowing the stipulated time period of 30 minutes to lapse from the time when the aircraft last contacted ATC. This was perhaps done because the flight was carrying a VIP," the AAI said.

Since the Embraer-135 aircraft, carrying the minister, does not have a long range, it had stopovers at Thiruvananthapuram and Mauritius for refuelling.

The flight had left for Mauritius from Thiruvananthapuram at 2.08 pm. After it left the Indian airspace, it was handed over to the Male ATC which established contact with the flight at 4.44 pm IST.

Soon after it was handed over to the Mauritius ATC, the incident unfolded leading to panic. However, everyone heaved a sigh of relief when the aircraft came in contact with the ATC there at 4.58 pm, the AAI said.

The Ministry of External Affairs has not commented on the issue so far.

Swaraj is in South Africa to attend the BRICS and IBSA meets  the two major groups where India has been playing a major role. She will also meet the top leadership of the country.

An official conversant with the ATC issues over the Indian Ocean region told PTI, the problem in contacting the flight could have arisen due to weak radar coverage as flights have to rely on VHF communication, which have their own set of issues.

The uncertainty phase is the first of the three emergency phases, the other two being the alert phase and the distress phase.Telangana government said on Saturday that it would soon announce a Rs five lakh life insurance scheme for farmers of the state.

Hyderabad: Telangana government said on Saturday that it would soon announce a Rs five lakh life insurance scheme for farmers of the state.

Under the scheme, to be implemented through the public sector Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), the family of a farmer would get Rs five lakh within 10 days in the event of his death, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao said.

Making the announcement during the celebration of the Telangana formation day, he said the premium for the scheme would be fully paid by the government.

The distribution of insurance papers to the farmers would begin from 15 August, Rao said. Earlier, the chief minister unfurled the national flag and inspected a parade.

The state was carved out of Andhra Pradesh on 2 June, 2014.

From 15 August, the government would hold free eye-camps under the 'Kanti Velugu' scheme, he said. Spectacles would be distributed free of cost and free eye surgeries would be performed for the needy patients, he added.

The state government had earlier proposed to announce an interim relief in lieu of salary revision to its employees on the formation day, but deferred it.

The chief minister held a meeting with senior officials in this regard on Saturday night when they suggested it may not be proper to make an announcement on the relief now as the pay-revision commission, which has recently been appointed, is yet to submit any report, an official release said.

On the occasion of the formation day, the government listed out the numerous welfare and development programmes being implemented over the last four years.

The schemes include social security pensions, 'Kalyana Lakshmi' scheme for providing monetary benefit to women, 24-hour free power supply to farmers, update of land records and the mission 'Bhagiradha', a drinking water supply project.

The state formation day was celebrated in the offices of opposition Congress, BJP, TDP and various other government

departments.

The state government offices in the city were decorated with colourful lighting.Nearly a week after the DGMOs of India and Pakistan agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistani Rangers resorted to unprovoked firing along the International Border (IB) in Jammu on Sunday morning killing two BSF personnel.

Two BSF personnel, including an officer, were on Sunday killed as Pakistani Rangers targeted Indian posts along the International Border (IB) on Jammu with mortars and firing, a violation which comes nearly a week after DGMOs of both countries agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".

The heavy firing and mortar shelling from across the border in Pragwal area of Akhnoor and nearby Kanachak and Khour sectors also left 10 persons, including a policeman and a woman injured, and forced people to abandon their homes and rush for safer places.

Pakistan side resorted to unprovoked firing by targeting forward duty points at International Border (IB) in Pragwal around 0115 hours, causing critical injuries to Assistant Sub-inspector SN Yadav (48) and constable VK Pandey, a senior BSF officer told PTI.

BSF's Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey and ASI Satya Narayan Yadav, who were injured in cross-border firing by Pakistan in Akhnoor, succumbed to their injuries. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/OXgly9L6IZ  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

He said both the injured were evacuated to medical facilities but succumbed to injuries.

#JammuAndKashmir: Pakistan indulges in cross-border firing in Akhnoor, visuals from the area. 2 BSF jawans lost their lives & 3 civilians were injured. Firing started at 0115 hours, BSF is retaliating. pic.twitter.com/48Lu7e9sWC  ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2018

The firing from across the border in violation of the ceasefire agreement prompted a strong and effective retaliation by the BSF, the officer said adding cross-border firing spread to Kanachak and Khour areas as well and was going on when last reports came in.

A police official said nine civilians and a policeman were also injured in the Pakistan shelling and were evacuated to hospital.

He identified six of the injured persons as selection grade constable Zakir Khan, Sulakshana Devi (25), Bansi Lal (40), Balwinder Singh (22), Sudhakar Singh (50) and Vikram Singh (34).

DGMOs should hold dialogue again, says Mehbooba Mufti

Condemning Sunday's firing, Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti urged that the DGMOs hold dialogue again and bring the "bloodshed" to an end. "It's unfortunate that this has happened even after Directors-General of Military Operations (DGMOs) held dialogue. People on both sides of the border are dying. The DGMOs should hold dialogue again. This bloodshed must be brought to an end," ANI quoted Mufti as saying.

On 29 May, the DGMOs of India and Pakistan agreed to "fully implement" the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit" forthwith to stop border skirmishes in Jammu and Kashmir.

The two military commanders reviewed the prevailing situation along the LoC and the IB in Jammu and Kashmir during a conversation over the special hotline.

The hotline contact was initiated by the Pakistani DGMO.

Following the conversation between Indian DGMO Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan and Pakistan's Major General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the two armies issued identical statements saying both sides agreed to implement the 15-year-old ceasefire understanding.

The latest deaths in the Pakistani firing raised the casualty figure during ceasefire violations along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC) in the state to 46. The dead includes 20 security personnel.

Last month, thousands of people residing along the IB in Jammu, Kathua and Samba districts had to flee their homes following intense shelling from Pakistan between 15 May and 23 May which left 12 people dead, including two BSF jawans and an infant, and scores of others injured.

After the DGMOs of the two countries spoke to each other, hope rekindled among border residents who had started returning to their homes but the latest incident triggered fresh concerns among them and the people in the affected areas started fleeing their homes.

With inputs from PTIThe militants were buried by locals in Jammu and Kashmir who had taken their photographers which were later circulated on social media.

Srinagar: Two of the five militants killed by the Indian Army last month while trying to sneak into Jammu and Kashmir's Tangdhar sector from Pakistan were on Sunday identified as locals by their families.

The army had said that the five militants were trying to infiltrate the Line of Control (LoC) when they were killed by troops on 25 May.

While the army said it had recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition from the slain militants, the exact identity of the slain militants had not been established.

The militants were buried by locals who had taken their photographers which were later circulated on social media.

Based on the photographic evidences, two families from Pulwama and Kulgam districts claimed the two were their kin.

One of the militants was identified as Shiraz Ahmad of Lajoora in Pulwama and the other was identified as Mudasir Ahmad of Parigam village in Kulgam district.

Shiraz was missing since September 2017 and Mudasir had gone missing since July 2016.

The families have urged the Jammu and Kashmir Police to exhume the bodies so that they are given a proper burial.

According to the police, the bodies are now likely to be exhumed and DNA tests will be conducted to establish the claim of the families.Union health minister JP Nadda reviewed the ground situation with his Kerala counterpart on the Nipah virus outbreak and took stock of the public health measures in the affected areas of Kozhikode and Malappuram

New Delhi: Union health minister JP Nadda on Friday reviewed the ground situation with his Kerala counterpart and took stock of the public health measures in the affected areas of Kozhikode and Malappuram where the Nipah virus has claimed 17 lives so far.

The multi-disciplinary central team led by Director of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and comprising experts from NCDC, AIIMS, Safdarjung hospital, EMR division, NIV Pune is constantly monitoring the situation of the Nipah virus disease and supporting the state health authorities in managing the outbreak.

After reviewing the situation, the central team suggested triage of Nipah cases and establishment of dedicated isolation facilities in district and strict infection control practices, a health ministry statement said.

The government has also issued advisories for general public and healthcare personnel along with guidelines for sample collection for Nipah virus, hospital infection control and laboratory biosafety guidelines.

In addition, contact tracing and treatment and clinical management protocol has been provided to the state authorities, it said.

National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is monitoring the situation in various states through the Integrated Disease Control Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network. Advisories have been sent to all the states, video conferencing has been conducted with states for training and clarifying their doubts.

Further samples sent from various states such as Goa, Telangana, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh have come out negative. Out of 19 reported cases of the disease, 17 have died .The recent deaths of two BJP workers is a reinforcement of the fact that the state machinery in West Bengal has been historically compromised to perpetuate political violence.

If there is one state in India where one should not be surprised to see political violence resulting in brutal murders, it is West Bengal. The recent deaths of two BJP workers is a reinforcement of the fact that the state machinery in West Bengal has been historically compromised to perpetuate political violence.

The state has been the most politically violent state of the country, at least since independence. Before 1977 it was the Congress which ushered in a period known as hoodlum years between 1971 and 1977, till the time the Congress was defeated by the Left. This period saw organised political killings of Naxalites and political opponents particularly by the Youth Congress and Chatra Parishad. At that time the Naxals were after the Congress and the CPM, the CPM was after the Congress and the Naxals, and the Congress with all the state apparatus was after the CPM and the Naxals.

The Left got the mandate of the people of West Bengal against the Congress because of such atrocious level of violence. However, the Left rule proved no less violent and, in fact, surpassed all levels of political violence in the state, till the date. The Communist regime drove off the industry, the farmers became poorer and when it was finally driven out of power, it quite literally left more people starving in West Bengal, than any other state in India. Also, the Left, remaining committed to its ideology was not averse to compromising the democratic system and hence widespread election rigging had become a norm in those days.

It was against this anarchic model of governance that Mamta Banerjee got the mandate to rule West Bengal by its people. However, it is speculated that the entire lumpen Left cadre base was transferred to Trinamool Congress. It is hence no surprise that they choose to function in the manner they are used to. This meant that political violence remains unabated in the state.

The chart below shows the number of political murders in the state over a period of 2001 to 2016. The data shows that the state is consistent in political violence over this period, at least.

The following charts, reflect state-wise data of political murders. Only those states with political murders more than five have been taken into consideration for this visual representation. All the data is sourced from the annual publication of National Crime Records Bureau, Crime in India.

As is clearly seen, in the years 2007, 2010, 2011 and 2013, the state has the highest number of political killings. Even in other years, it has consistently remained among the states with the highest number of such murders.

However, in the years 2015 and 2016 the data only reflects that there has been only one political murder in the state in each year. This points to a data anomaly, especially because two such murders have happened in the last five days itself.

In the year 2016, the state of West Bengal records the highest number of Naxalism related deaths at 79. This is higher than Chhattisgarh. The data doesnt make any sense because there is only one district in the state which is Naxalism affected. This begs the question: are the political murders now projected by the state government as Naxalism-related deaths?

What's the solution?

The basic premise of political violence is that it militates against the concept of democracy and rule of law. It attacks at the heart of the constitutional setup, and therefore, drastic measures are required to curb this problem.

The solution of such a systematic problem of political violence is only a methodical overhaul of the governance structure of the state. The Union Government needs to show its mettle in such a case. West Bengal presents a textbook case of the breakdown of the constitutional machinery in a state, especially when we contextualise the present murders with the massive and widespread violence seen during the panchayat polls in the state, just last month. There hasnt been any such situation in our entire independent history.

The Modi government has all the reasons to exercise its powers under Article 356 of the Constitution and dismiss the Mamta Banerjee government with immediate effect and can choose to order fresh elections. If not this, then the Central government should order a CBI inquiry into the twin murders and a judicial inquiry into the violence reported during the elections. The trials should also be shifted outside the state in order to expect a fair outcome.

It is the utmost responsibility of the Union government that the rule of law is maintained and none of the federating units are subjected to a mayhem of this magnitude, at the hands of a despotic chief minister.

The author is a senior fellow with the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Bombay, Mumbai. He can be reached at raghav10089@gmail.com, Twitter: @raghavwrongText by Greeshma Rai | Art by Satwick Gade They had been protesting continuously for close to three months. And to mark the 100th day, the struggle committee, comprised of representatives from each locality of Thoothukudi, decided to organise a mass rally to the District Collectors office on 22 May. They had pulled together several meetings as part of this protest against Sterlite Industries and, as before, they submitted a letter to local authorities stating their intent to agitate. The march would begin at Matha Kovil as it was accessible to everyone in the town. They would assemble early in the morning and walk to the District Collectors office to submit a petition to the officer. These are their stories of 22 May, the day they marched 6 kilometres from Matha Kovil to the Collectors office.

Infanta is an Economics graduate from Fathima Nagar. She quit her job in January to take part in the struggle, and has been doing this full time since. She was one of the first to begin mobilising people for this march. She called her friends and all of them began to exchange messages on the WhatsApp groups they were part of. Tamilarasan has been part of the agitation against Sterlite Industries since 1996. He is a well-known leader, known for the passion with which he defends the Tamil cause. His struggle assumed a personal urgency when his brother died of cancer, a disease that locals have long held is caused by Sterlites polluting ways. For the 100th day march, Tamilarasan took on the task of distributing posters. He directed his friends to do the same. Raja runs a mechanic shop next to the Collectors office. He hadnt participated in the protests before, but he decided to take the day off on 22 May to attend the rally. He wanted to shoot everything on his mobile phone. Rani is a transwoman who had played an important part in the struggle along with her community, in spite of facing struggles of survival everyday. She instructed others from the community to be ready for 22 May. Vanitha lives in Mini Sahaya Puram. As soon as she heard about the rally being organised, she told other mothers like herself in the area that all of them should participate in the rally in huge numbers. She would herself take at least five people from her family. Her daughter, Snowlin, had just finished her Class 12 exams and was very enthusiastic about taking part in the rally. She began to practice slogans and excitedly discussed the rally with friends in the area. While everybody was in the midst of organising the march, the police denied the protestors permission to rally and imposed Section 144 as a deterrent. The struggle committee tried reasoning with the police, but to no avail. The committee representatives took this back to each of the neighborhoods they represented. It was decided unanimously that they would go ahead with the rally.

On the morning of 22 May, at 6 am, people began to assemble at Matha Kovil. Vanitha took along Snowlin, her daughter-in-law Marylda, and her grandchildren, one six months old and the other two years old. They reached the temple at around 7 am. They met Infanta who was there with her friend Finolin. They thought it best to hold hands throughout, considering the crowd would grow to a large number. As protestors gathered, it was decided that the transwomen would lead the rally, followed by the women and then the men. As there were many elderly protestors and children, everybody was instructed to march at a slow pace. They set off from Matha Kovil at 8 am.

The police had installed the first barricade next to Thoothukudis fire service station and when the march reached this fortification, the crowd was told to disperse immediately. The marchers refused. An argument broke out. Several protestors asked the police why they were siding with Sterlite and imposing prohibitory orders against them, even after being informed about the rally a week in advance. The police, seeing that the people were unrelenting, launched a lathi charge.

Enraged, the crowd surged forward, pushing the police aside. They broke the barricade and marched on. There were similar barricades along the route, and the marchers broke through them all. They pushed their way to VVD Signal, where stones were hurled at them. One of these stones struck Infanta on the head, felling her. She picked herself up and carried on.

A stray bull stood at the signal. It charged at the crowd, piercing their ranks, scattering people. The police ordered another lathi assault, angering the protestors further; it was just a few weeks ago that thousands of them had gathered at this signal to rail against Sterlite. The police had offered them protection. It defied reason that they were being attacked now.

Many from the crowd retaliated. A few snatched lathis from the police and chased them away. Others picked up the stones which were hurled at them and hurled them back. By the time this skirmish between the police and protestors heaved its way to 3rd Mile Bridge, the marchers appeared to have gained some control. The police was chased away. As Vanitha and others began the final leg of the rally, they spotted smoke from under the Thoothukudi Bypass Bridge. A bike had been set on fire. They walked past it and reached the entrance to the Collectors office. Police forces had run ahead of them, further away from the building.

A group of marchers, including Rani and Tamilarasan, walked past barricades and entered the office. Infanta felt faint from the injury to her head. She sat down next to the archway that led to the building. She told Snowlin and the others to go on. Vanitha, who said she was tired carrying her grandchild, sat down with Infanta.

As protestors approached the office, the police struck them with blows. This didnt deter Rani, who thought they had the police outnumbered. She was sure theyd get to meet the Collector. But when she got to the building, Rani found the police had them surrounded. Hundreds of uniformed men had positioned themselves around the office. She heard gunshots behind her. Rani grabbed her sisters and ran.

Raja was dumbstruck. Hed expected to film some action and skirmishing on his mobile phone but he hadnt quite expected to see gunfire. As he looked around, he saw a man in a yellow t-shirt taking aim at him. Moments later, an older protestor next to Raja collapsed, blood flowing from his head. As Raja ran forward to help, he felt a rush of pain in his leg. He looked down to see that he had been shot.

Infanta, who was at the archway, stood up in shock as she heard the shots. She told Vanitha to leave with the children. As people bolted away from the building, Infanta ran towards it, looking for Snowlin, Finolin and Marylda. She caught sight of them almost instantly. The four clutched hands and headed for the gate.

As they neared the barricade at the entrance, a policeman struck Finolin on the head with a lathi. She collapsed. Infanta let go of Snowlins hand to help her friend. Snowlin, who was a few paces ahead told Marylda to run and turned around. She bent to pull Finolin up. A bullet hit Snowlins face. Infanta watched her drop to the ground, her face masked with blood. Around her the police waved lathis and the bullets continued to fly. She had to help Snowlin, she had to get her to an ambulance.

More people collapsed under firing. A few protestors rang 108 to call for ambulances so the injured could be taken to the government hospital. No one came. They commandeered motorbikes and scooters to carry those who were wounded. A privately run eye hospital was called, and it dispatched two ambulances. These vehicles made multiple trips to transport injured protestors.

As many fought for their lives at the Government Hospital, Vanitha reached home. Everyone who had left with her was safe, except Snowlin. Vanitha began to make a series of calls to check if her daughter was out of danger. Meanwhile, there was no word about Tamilarasans whereabouts. His family made inquiries with friends. Vanitha was told Snowlin was dead. Tamilarasan hadnt made it either. They were killed in the firing.

Snowlin and Tamilarasan were among the 13 people who died in Thoothukudi on 22 May. Their families released a statement declaring they wouldnt claim the bodies of the dead till Sterlite shut down permanently. This article is based on conversations with eyewitnesses in Thoothukudi. Some names have been changed on request.Advani's observation came as he, along with veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav, launched a website publishing articles and write ups on George Fernandes by his close associates, on the occasion of the latter's 88th birthday.

New Delhi: Veteran BJP leader LK Advani on Sunday said that he missed the speeches of former Union Minister and anti-Emergency crusader George Fernandes in Parliament.

Advani's observation came as he, along with veteran socialist leader Sharad Yadav, launched a website publishing articles and write ups on George Fernandes by his close associates, on the occasion of the latter's 88th birthday.

Fernandes, who served as the Defence Minister in the NDA government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpyee between 1998 and 2004, has been crippled by Alzheimer's disease, and his last stint as a Parliamentarian was as a Rajya Sabha MP between August 2009 to July 2010.

"Geroge has done a great service to the nation. I always remember his speeches and miss them now," Advani said, adding that he was surprised by the fact that Fernandes had command over 10 languages.

A native of Mangaluru, Fernandes is the founder of the Samata Party. He rose to fame as an anti-Emergency crusader and civil rights activists and served as a Union Minister in the Janata Party government headed by Morarji Desai that came to power in 1977 to 1980.

Fernandes stepped down as the Defence Minister in 2004 after the "coffingate" scandal broke out. He was later absolved by two commissions of inquiry.

Fernandes' wife Leila Kabir said that the disease had affected Fernandes' sharp brain, that he could no longer tell his own story.

"George is very much alive, but not there to tell his story, since the disease has devoured his sharp brain," Kabir said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too took to Twitter to greet the socialist leader on his 88th birthday. Both leaders lauded Fernandes' contribution in the public life.

The website has been designed by media personality VK Cherian.Union minister Prakash Javadekar claimed that the BJP would capture the majority of the Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2019 general elections.

Kolkata: Pointing out that the BJP has made massive progress in West Bengal politics by emerging as the prime Opposition party in the recent elections, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday claimed the saffron outfit would capture the majority of the Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2019 general elections.

"Politics in Bengal was lopsided. The Communist Party ruled for many years before Trinamool came to power. Even a few years back, BJP was the fourth or fifth largest party in West Bengal. The biggest thing is we have successfully emerged as the main Opposition here," Javadekar told media persons.

"Even in the rural areas, where we did not have even 50 seats earlier, we have captured 5,600 seats in the last election (rural body election). In 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Bengal will see majority of seats going in BJP's favour," he said.

The BJP Rajya Sabha MP from Madhya Pradesh also accused the West Bengal government of taking up a four-pronged strategy to rig the recent state rural polls and said the electorate would give the ruling party a befitting reply.

Referring to the killings of two BJP activists in Bengal's Purulia district in the last one week, he also accused the state government of not investigating these murder cases and thereby promoting the culture of political murders in the state.

"The government of West Bengal took up a four-pronged strategy to rig the three-pronged election. In the rural body elections, they did not allow nominations to be filed, campaigns to be held, voters to vote or the electoral officers to count (votes) in many places," he accused.

"Political murders are going on day in and day out in West Bengal. Nineteen workers of BJP have been killed, the latest cases being those of Dulal Das and Trilochan Mahato. They were hanged. This is inhumane. The Bengal government is not investigating the murders at all. People will definitely teach a lesson to those who indulge in political murder culture," Javadekar said.

He rebuffed the claim by some local leaders that the two killings in Purulia were the outcome of infighting between the district BJP unit and the Bajrang Dal activists.

Responding to a question on the status of the ongoing CBI probe into the Saradha ponzi scam in which a number of Trinamool Congress leaders were named, the Union human resource development minister claimed everyone involved in the fraud will go to jail.

"We are not silent. The probe is on. The result will come out and everyone involved in Saradha scam will go to jail," he added.A day after the body of an 32-year-old man was found hanging from an electric pole in Purulia district, police said that his post-mortem report revealed that he committed suicide.

A day after the body of a 32-year-old man, Dulal Kumar, was found hanging from an electric pole in Purulia district, police said that his post-mortem report revealed he committed suicide, according to reports.

#BREAKING - Massive twist to BJP worker's death in West Bengal: First post-mortem report claims suicide, not murder. BJP rubbishes claims, insists he was murdered. pic.twitter.com/ALLyFk1dif  News18 (@CNNnews18) June 3, 2018

Aakash Magharia, Purulia's Superintendent of Police, said that the police has received the post-mortem report. He was quoted as saying by NDTV, "Five doctors have conducted the post-mortem and concluded that Dulal Kumar died of asphyxia ante-mortem by suicidal hanging." He added that further inquiry is on.

The death of Kumar took place three days after the body of another man, Trilochon Mahato, who the BJP said was a member of its youth wing, was found hanging from a tree in the Balarampur area of the same district.

The BJP alleged the deaths were "political murders" and demanded a CBI inquiry into the incidents.

The BJP on Saturday alleged that Dulal Kumar was murdered by TMC supporters for participating in a thana gherao protest organised by the party.

Union minister Smriti Irani also accused the Trinamool Congress of indulging in the "targeted killings" of BJP workers. She said, "This is not an issue of concern only for BJP workers but the entire nation. The West Bengal government has failed to maintain law and order and is not able to deliver justice to the families of the victims."

Union minister Prakash Javadekar, who was in the city, also attacked the TMC government over the two deaths. "This is inhuman and the worst kind of crime. We condemn the brutal political murders. The people of West Bengal will definitely teach a lesson to those behind the incidents," he told reporters.

"Nineteen BJP workers have been killed so far (since the panchayat polls). The latest victims were Dulal and Trilochon Mahato," he said.

Amit Shah also tweeted, "Distressed to know about yet another killing of BJP karyakarta Dulal Kumar in Balrampur, West Bengal. This continued brutality and violence in the land of West Bengal is shameful and inhuman. Mamata Banerjee's government has completely failed to maintain law and order in the state."

The BJP also demanded imposition of President's rule in the state. Union minister and MP Babul Supriyo told PTI, "The only constitutional medicine that Mamata Banerjee and her TMC goons require for their barbaric behaviour is imposition of President's rule in West Bengal."

The Trinamool has, however, denied its involvement in either of the incidents. The state government handed over the probe to the Criminal Investigation Department.

With inputs from agenciesRam Vilas Paswan, chief of Lok Janshakti Party met with BJP's president Amit Shah to discuss about giving a category status to Bihar and the reservations for Schedule Caste and Tribe.

New Delhi: Lok Janshakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan met BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday, seeking an ordinance to restore the original provisions of a law on atrocities against Dalits and called for ensuring reservation in promotion for the community.

Paswan, a Union minister and a key BJP ally, told PTI that he also raised the issue of special category status for Bihar, a long-standing demand of chief minister Nitish Kumar. "Bihar is one of the poorest states. So many states are demanding it. Bihar deserves it," Paswan said.

The Dalit leader was joined by his son and MP Chirag Paswan where they discussed a host of issues, especially related to Bihar, a state which is important to the BJP-led NDA's overall performance for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

In the meeting, Paswan stressed on the need to bring an ordinance to restore the original stringent provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The Supreme Court, in a recent order, had introduced new guidelines which, almost every political party has claimed, dilutes the law and will lead to a rise in crimes against Dalits. The government has moved the apex court for a review.

Paswan said he told Shah that the government should bring an ordinance to undo the court's order and restore the Act's original provisions. He also said that the government should move the apex court to remove provisions which have come in the way of giving reservation to SCs and STs in promotion in government jobs. "If required the government should bring in an ordinance on this," he said.

Paswan said Shah agreed with his stand on Dalit issues and assured him of positive response.In one of the sharpest attacks after the Lok Sabha bypoll in Palghar, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday described BJP as its biggest 'political enemy'.

Mumbai: In one of the sharpest attacks after the recently held Lok Sabha bypoll in Palghar, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday described BJP as its biggest "political enemy".

The country "does not" want the duo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah, but could "accept" the Congress or JD(S) leader H D Deve Gowda, he said.

"The Shiv Sena is the biggest political enemy of the BJP. The Sena's radical Hinduism would prove problematic for the BJP," he said in an opinion piece written in party mouthpiece `Saamana'.

Raut is the editor of the Marathi daily.

Taking potshots at the saffron party, Raut said the BJP paid tribute to its late MP Chintaman Wanaga by defeating his son, the Sena candidate, in Palghar.

The bypoll was necessitated by the death of Chintaman Wanaga.

Since the Sena is the main political opponent of the BJP, the latter's plan is to weaken the Uddhav Thackeray-led party while staying in power with it, he alleged.

"Hence, the BJP's plan is to stay with the Sena in power and try to weaken it by using power and money. The BJP used its resources to ensure Shiv Sena's defeat in the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll (held last month)," Raut said.

The Sena leader claimed "trickery" of EVMs led to the BJP's victory in Palghar and said it was nothing short of a "scandal".

"On the day of voting (28 May), complaints of EVMs malfunctioning were reported from at least 100 locations. The Election Commission rejected the Shiv Sena's request for extending voting hours, but a similar demand of BJP candidate Rajendra Gavit (who won the seat) was accepted," he alleged.

He claimed that every polling station, where extension for voting was given, reported an "average 100 extra votes to the BJP nominee and cumulatively BJP's votes increased by some thousands. But some 60,000 voters could not vote".

"After the voting, the district collector declared 46 percent turnout, but the figure went up to 56 percent the next day (when final figure was announced). It means 82,000 votes increased overnight", he said.

Raut charged that the BJP has appointed people with RSS links to key constitutional posts and controlled the election procedure.

He also referred to the setback suffered by the BJP in the just held Lok Sabha and Assembly bypolls in some states.

"The BJP managed to win the Palghar Lok Sabha bypoll but it lost many other Lok Sabha and Assembly bypolls. This shows winds of change are blowing in several parts of the country," he said.

"The bypoll results indicate the beginning of the BJP's downfall," said the Rajya Sabha MP.

He charged that "the country is in such a state of mind that it can accept the Congress or Deve Gowda, but does not want the Modi- Shah duo".Running a minority government requires flexibility and the ability to swallow humiliation, this is something Narendra Modi has never been required to do in his career

The defeat of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the recent by-elections across India has produced speculation about what 2019 will bring.

We have looked at the issue state by state before and I dont want to repeat that exercise. The one thing that seems reasonable to assume is that if large parts of the opposition remain together, it will be difficult for the BJP to hold on to too many more than 210 seats in the Lok Sabha.

This would bring the BJP to the size of the Congress in the last United Progressive Alliance government. As things stand at the moment, I dont think it is possible to see the BJP giving up the position of the single largest party.

It will hold on to that position and it will give the party leadership the options of looking to build some sort of new National Democratic Alliance. Regional parties that are not currently in it but have been at one time, like some of the Tamilian parties, may join in.

Others, which were once there but have become opponents, could join again or remain neutral. Chandrababu Naidus Telugu Desam Party and Naveen Patnaiks Biju Janata Dal are two such parties, and there are others also. Therefore, even if the BJP loses 70 or 80 seats, it should still be possible and perhaps easy for the party to return to power.

What will be interesting is two things: first, how the party internally responds to the loss of seats and the loss of majority, and secondly, how its leadership manages allies who have a veto. The first will be an entirely new situation for Narendra Modi. Readers will remember that he became the chief minister of Gujarat without having fought a single election. He has always led a majority government.

The leadership of the RSS and BJP felt that the divisions produced by factionalism in the Gujarat BJP needed to be fixed and Modi was parachuted in. A few months into his term, Gujarat burst into flames.

Modi then delivered consecutive victories for his government and his only experience as a chief minister is in heading government where he controlled the full majority and often a two-thirds one.

He used the authority that he earned with his victories to totally dominate the Gujarat BJP. Old leaders and builders of the party like Keshubhai Patel and the undefeated six-term Lok Sabha member Kashiram Rana were sidelined. New faces, all loyal to Modi, were brought in. Modi picked and chose his Cabinet and dominated it also, holding all the key portfolios.

Amit Shah is seen as the second most powerful leader in the country today, and he is, but it is instructive to remember that in the decade that he served Modi in Gujarat, Modi did not give him a Cabinet rank, keeping him as a Minister of State.

Modis total domination meant that others in the party had no options. Those he sidelined had no agency to push back because of his victories. There were rumours that the RSS was unhappy with his concentration of power but nothing came of it. In fact, he even fixed some of the RSS leaders in Gujarat.

Modis brilliant campaign of 2014 then produced a similar situation in Delhi and he was the undisputed leader of a party that had previously had some divisions but was always more disciplined than the Congress.

Old leaders like LK Advani and MM Joshi were shunted out. Others like Sushma Swaraj had to submit. The party is seen as one big happy family today but it is not. Like all parties, the BJP also has many who see themselves as being capable of doing more but are being deliberately held back.

In a situation where the BJP has only 210 seats, these individuals will assert themselves in a way that they are not doing now. These include regional leaders like chief ministers, national ones and small factions who will come together as a lobby group.

It will be fascinating to see how Modi, for the first time in his political life without a majority, is able to manage the ambitions and the conflicts.

The other thing will be managing the allies. At 210 seats, the position of the prime minister will be like that of Manmohan Singh. The UPA leader was wrongly seen as weak, and this weakness was seen somehow as a personal failing rather than the position of a man whose allies have a veto on his actions.

There is no defence against such allies except for martyrdom. One can sacrifice the government, or ones position, and move on. But if one wants to lead in a government where the majority is missing, then allies will have to be accommodated.

This is again something that Modi has never been required to do. Running a minority government requires flexibility and the ability to swallow humiliation. Allies will make sure that their hold is made public and this will mean getting the government to bend a few times.

It will be fascinating to see how Modi manages this, particularly for those of us who have observed the meteoric trajectory of his career.

I have written before that having minority governments and khichdi coalitions has not hampered Indias economic and social growth. Those who fear a minority government or a hamstrung BJP should not despair. Coalitions are not evil. What will be instructive will be to see how Modi manages one.IANS

After the success of a mobile application that enabled people to share complaints with evidence during the Karnataka elections, the Election Commission of India (EC) will use the app in the upcoming polls, an official said here on 2 May.

"The application will help people to share complaints with evidence. We have used the application during Karnataka elections. Over 780 videos were received by the Commission. We are giving power to common people to check wrongdoings... People will become policemen in the election process," Chief Election Commissioner O.P. Rawat said here.

"It is a success. It will be used everywhere," he said.

According to Rawat, the application has a feature to identify latitude, longitude of the area and concerned constituency. It can also identify concerned election officials so that the complaints are addressed.

The commission will ensure the identity of the complainant is not disclosed, he added.LJUBLJANA (Reuters) - The opposition anti-immigrant centre-right Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) was set to win the Slovenian general election on Sunday with 24.4 percent of the votes, according to exit polls by the national TV channel TV Slovenia.

LJUBLJANA (Reuters) - The opposition anti-immigrant centre-right Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) was set to win the Slovenian general election on Sunday with 24.4 percent of the votes, according to exit polls by the national TV channel TV Slovenia.

The centre-left party of the Mayor of Kamnik Marjan Sarec, LMS, followed with 12.6 percent of the vote. Preliminary results will be issued by the State Election Commission later on Sunday.

(Reporting by Marja Novak; editing by Ivana Sekularac)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.Israeli aircraft pounded over a dozen militant targets in Gaza, the army said today, after Palestinian projectile fire shattered a ceasefire reached just days ago after the worst flare-up since a 2014 war.

Gaza City: Israeli aircraft pounded over a dozen militant targets in Gaza, the army said on Sunday, after Palestinian projectile fire shattered a ceasefire reached just days ago after the worst flare-up since a 2014 war.

The latest escalation came hours after thousands of Palestinians attended the funeral of a young female volunteer medic killed by Israeli fire in violence on the border in southern Gaza.

In the first wave of air strikes, Israeli "fighter jets targeted 10 terror sites in three military compounds belonging to the Hamas terror organisation in the Gaza Strip," the army said in a statement early Sunday.

"Among the targets were two Hamas munition manufacturing and storage sites and a military compound," the army said. The strikes were retaliation to rockets fired at Israel, as well as "various terror activities approved and orchestrated by the Hamas terror organisation over the weekend," the army said.

The army listed a series of attempted attacks at soldiers on the border fence, as well as "damaging security infrastructure and igniting fires in Israeli territory with the use of arson kites and balloons". A few hours later an aircraft shot at "five terror targets at a military compound belonging to the Hamas terror organization's naval force in the northern Gaza Strip," the army said in a separate statement.

There were no immediate reports of casualties in Gaza.

On Saturday evening, militants in the Palestinian enclave fired two projectiles at southern Israel, where air raid sirens sent residents to bomb shelters. The Iron Dome aerial defence system intercepted one of the projectiles, while the other was believed to have fallen short of its target and hit within Gaza, according to the army.

Early Sunday, four more projectiles were separately launched at Israel. Three were intercepted, the army said, with the fourth apparently hitting an open field.

No group in Gaza claimed responsibility for the projectile attacks, which came shortly after the Saturday funeral of Razan al-Najjar, 21, a volunteer with the Gaza health ministry, who was fatally shot in the chest near Khan Yunis on Friday.

Ambulances and medical crews attended the funeral, with Najjar's father holding the white blood-stained medics' jacket she wore when she was shot, as mourners called for revenge.

Gazans have since 30 March staged border protests demanding the return of Palestinians to the land they fled or were expelled from during the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation, now inside the Jewish state.

The demonstrations have been accompanied by smaller clashes as youths hurl stones at Israeli soldiers and attempt to breach the border fence, at times laying explosive devices on the fence or throwing grenades. Palestinians in the besieged coastal enclave have also been using kites carrying burning cans to set ablaze Israeli fields, torching extensive patches of agricultural land near Gaza.

Following the funeral, several Gazans were wounded in clashes east of Khan Yunis, health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra said. The Israeli army said "a terror cell" had infiltrated from southern Gaza. Soldiers shot at the Palestinians, who returned to the enclave.

The weekend launches were the first since Israel struck scores of militant sites in Gaza earlier this week in retaliation for a barrage of rockets and missiles fired from the territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said after the strikes that Israel's military had delivered the "harshest blow" in years to Gaza militants.

Palestinian Islamist groups in Gaza, including the strip's rulers Hamas, said a ceasefire deal was reached after the flare-up, although there was no confirmation from Israel.

Addressing Najjar's death, the UN envoy for the Middle East, Nickolay Mladenov, said in a tweet that "Medical workers are #NotATarget!" and that "Israel needs to calibrate its use of force and Hamas need to prevent incidents at the fence." The Palestinian Medical Relief Society said Najjar was shot "as she was attempting to provide first aid to an injured protester", with three other first responders also hit by live fire on Friday.

"Shooting at medical personnel is a war crime under the Geneva conventions," the PMRC said in a statement, demanding "an immediate international response to Israeli humanitarian law violations in Gaza".

Najjar's death brings the toll of Gazans killed by Israeli fire since the end of March to 123. The demonstrations and violence peaked on May 14 when at least 61 Palestinians were killed in clashes as tens of thousands of Gazans protested the US transfer of its embassy in Israel to the disputed city of Jerusalem the same day. Low-level demonstrations have continued since.

Speaking at Najjar's funeral, Khaled al-Batsh, one of the protest organisers, called on Gazans to "continue the return marches and break the (Israeli) siege with peaceful tools".Nicaragua protesters have fired homemade mortars to fend off a police crackdown in new unrest that left at least six people dead, including a US citizen, as the opposition renewed calls for President Daniel Ortega's resignation.

Masaya (Nicaragua): Nicaraguan protesters have fired homemade mortars to fend off a police crackdown in new unrest that left at least six people dead, including a US citizen, as the opposition renewed calls for President Daniel Ortega's resignation.

But Ortega, the man who has dominated the Central American country's politics for the past four decades, only appeared to dig in deeper, defying seven weeks of anti-government protests that have left more than 100 people dead and are turning increasingly violent.

In the city of Masaya, once a bastion of support for Ortega's leftist Sandinista movement, residents put up barricades to keep out riot police and protect themselves from what they said were police and paramilitary snipers positioned around a central neighborhood.

Five people were killed in the city, including a 15-year-old boy, according to the Nicaraguan Association for the Protection of Human Rights (ANPDH).

"The blood spilled in Masaya has made it a day of mourning and pain for those citizens who simply wanted to exercise their right to protest," the head of the rights group, Alvaro Leiva, told AFP on Saturday. "We are facing a situation of profound crisis in terms of human rights violations." A police intelligence officer was also among the victims, he said.

Separately, US Ambassador Laura Dogu said an American citizen had been killed overnight in the capital, Managua.

The ANPDH identified him as Sixto Henry Viera, 48, and said he was reportedly killed by a pro-government mob. The police meanwhile reported looting, fires and riots in at least six cities, including Managua and Masaya, blaming "right-wing groups"- though in at least some of the cities, residents said the security forces themselves were responsible for the destruction.

Masaya, a city of just over 1,00,000 people, resonated with gun and mortar fire as residents vowed to fight back the security forces they blame for killing innocent protesters, as well as government supporters they say have been looting and pillaging. Holed up in a police station and other strategic spots, police returned fire with tear gas and, allegedly, live ammunition.

Jonhatan Jose, 47, said his neighbor was shot and killed. "They are attacking the Nicaraguan people. They put a bullet in my neighbor's chest this morning," he told AFP. "It was a sniper. You can tell by the size of the hole -big. He must have been about 23 years old, with a son who was three or four."

One focal point in the unrest was a burned-out artisans' market. The government said residents had torched it, and that security forces were sent into the city at the request of small business owners who lost everything. Residents called that a lie, they said riot police burned the building themselves in an attempt to justify the crackdown, which led to 31 arrests. The street battles shut down any semblance of normal life in the city.

As hundreds of youths gathered at the barricades brandishing homemade mortars, machetes, rocks and slingshots, other residents sheltered in their homes in terror. At her family-owned grocery store, 49-year-old Vanesa  who declined to give her last name, fearing for her safety  choked up as she described hiding out with her three children and grandson.

Protesters have a single demand, said Azhalea Solis, an opposition leader, "Get rid of Ortega's government immediately." But the 72-year-old president looks ready for a long fight.

On Wednesday, a Mother's Day march in support of mothers who have lost children in the violence was met with gunfire that left at least 16 people dead.

Former Ortega ally Henry Ruiz  who was a commander in the Sandinista guerrilla army when it overthrew the dictator Anastasio Somoza in 1979, bringing Ortega to power  warned the country to brace for more. "There is abundant evidence that Ortega will dig in militarily to fight back and strengthen his hand for negotiations," he said in an opinion column.

Ortega, who was voted out of office in 1990 and returned to power in 2007, is now serving a third term that is due to end in 2022TORONTO (Reuters) - The premier of Canada's most populous province, Ontario, conceded defeat on Saturday ahead of next week's election, but called on voters to vote for her party anyway to keep the next government in check. Kathleen Wynne, who has been premier since 2013 and whose Liberal Party has governed for 15 years, told reporters she will not be premier after the June 7 election. 'This is a hard thing to do,' 64-year-old Wynne told reporters tearfully, while urging party followers to vote for as many Liberals as possible to prevent the other two parties from forming a majority government.

TORONTO (Reuters) - The premier of Canada's most populous province, Ontario, conceded defeat on Saturday ahead of next week's election, but called on voters to vote for her party anyway to keep the next government in check.

Kathleen Wynne, who has been premier since 2013 and whose Liberal Party has governed for 15 years, told reporters she will not be premier after the June 7 election.

"This is a hard thing to do," 64-year-old Wynne told reporters tearfully, while urging party followers to vote for as many Liberals as possible to prevent the other two parties from forming a majority government.

The decision comes as the left-leaning New Democrats have gained ground ahead of provincial voting, according to opinion polls, setting up a two-way race with the right-leaning Progressive Conservatives to take power.

The Liberal Party has been trailing a distant third in recent polls, and Wynne's popularity has been low.

Pundits have predicted a resounding defeat for the governing party, which could also deal a blow to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's federal Liberals, who are closely allied with their Ontario counterpart.

Ontario is home to a third of Canada's population of 36 million and is the nation's economic engine and manufacturing heartland.

The Progressive Conservatives are led by populist Doug Ford, who has been compared to U.S. President Donald Trump, and who has yet to release budget plans. The New Democrats, led by Andrea Horwath, have vowed to extend public funding for prescription medicines and dental care and increase the corporate tax rate for large companies.

An Ipsos opinion poll released on Monday showed Ford's PCs with 37 percent support, while the New Democrats had 34 percent, and the ruling Liberals 22 percent.

Wynne spent much of the previous weeks issuing dire warnings as to what might happen to the province should her opponents win. She would not endorse either party and would not say whether she will stay on as leader after June 7.

(Reporting by Anna Mehler Paperny; Edited by Bill Berkrot)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.Pyongyang and Damascus have maintained warm ties for decades and reportedly shared a military relationship for some years, including during the ongoing Syrian civil war.

Seoul: Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said he plans to visit North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un, Pyongyang's state media reported on Sunday, potentially becoming the first head of state to meet Kim inside the isolated country.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet... Kim Jong Un," Assad said, the North's state-run KCNA news agency reported, using the abbreviated version of the country's official name.

The announcement came as anticipation mounts for a historic nuclear summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump in Singapore on 12 June, following a whirlwind round of diplomacy.

"The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political calibre and wise leadership of... Kim Jong-un," KCNA cited Assad as saying during a meeting with North Korean Ambassador Mun Jong Nam on Wednesday.

The Syrian president's office refused to comment on the report when contacted by AFP.

Pyongyang and Damascus have maintained warm ties for decades and reportedly shared a military relationship for some years, including during the ongoing Syrian civil war.

Suspicions over chemical weapons trade between Pyongyang and Damascus have been raised in the past by the UN and South Korea.

There were also widespread reports that North Korea helped Syria build a nuclear plant that was destroyed by Israeli bombing in 2007.

Both regimes have been the target of international isolation  Pyongyang over its banned nuclear programme and Damascus for atrocities committed during the seven-year civil war.

Since coming to power in 2011, Kim has not met another head of state in North Korea. He only made his first overseas trip as leader this year, travelling to China to meet President Xi Jinping, an ally of the reclusive regime.Mnuchin is isolated at a G7 finance ministers meeting in Canada due to Washingtons new trade tariffs on its allies, French minister Bruno Le Maire said

Whistler: US treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin is isolated at a G7 finance ministers meeting in Canada due to Washingtons new trade tariffs on its allies, French finance minister Bruno Le Maire said on Friday.

Le Maire said he would tell Mnuchin the US decision to impose tariffs on European Union steel and aluminum was "legally unacceptable, politically unfair and economically dangerous".

Unfortunately we are going to have a G6 plus one with the United States alone against everyone and running the risk of economic destabilisation, Le Maire told reporters.

The United States on Thursday said it was moving ahead to impose tariffs of 25 percent on steel imports and 10 percent on aluminum imports from the EU, Canada and Mexico, ending months of uncertainty about potential exemptions.

Our entire objective is to bring the American authorities back to good sense and reason, Le Maire said, adding that the US administration had put forward no convincing arguments to justify its tariff action.

The US move added to European anger over Washingtons threat to sanction companies that did business with Iran. US president Donald Trump in May pulled the United States out of the 2015 international nuclear accord with Tehran.

Le Maire said that he would press Mnuchin for sanction exemptions for specific French companies so they could operate in Iran. He declined to say which companies.

The fresh trade tensions have unsettled financial markets already jittery about political uncertainty in Italy and rising oil prices.

Le Maire welcomed the formation of a new Italian government and said he hoped to meet with his new Italian counterpart as soon as possible to discuss strengthening the euro zone.US and Chinese officials have discussed specific American export items Beijing might buy as part of its pledge to narrow its trade surplus with the United States, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said.

Beijing: US and Chinese officials have discussed specific American export items Beijing might buy as part of its pledge to narrow its trade surplus with the United States, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Sunday as the two sides began a new round of talks in Beijing aimed at settling a simmering trade dispute.

Ross gave no details at the start of his meeting with China's top economic official, Vice Premier Liu He, at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse. But Chinese envoys promised after the last high-level meeting in Washington in mid-May to buy more American farm goods and energy products.

President Donald Trump is pressing Beijing to narrow its politically volatile surplus in trade in goods with the United States, which reached a record $375.2 billion last year. He's threatening to hike duties on up to $150 billion of Chinese imports.

"Our meetings so far have been friendly and frank, and covered some useful topics about specific export items," Ross said.

Ross was accompanied by agricultural, treasury and trade officials. Liu's delegation included China's central bank governor and commerce minister.

There was no indication whether the talks also would take up American complaints that Beijing steals or pressures foreign companies. The White House renewed a threat this week to hike duties on $50 billion of Chinese technology-related goods over that dispute.

Private sector analysts say that while Beijing is willing to compromise on its trade surplus, it will resist changes that might threaten plans to transform China into a global technology competitor.

Ross had a working dinner Saturday evening with Liu, also at the same guesthouse in Beijing.

China has promised to "significantly increase" purchases of farm goods, energy and other products and services. Still, Beijing resisted pressure to commit to a specific target of narrowing its annual surplus with the United States by $200 billion.

Following Beijing's announcement, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the dispute was "on hold." But the truce appeared to end with last week's announcement Washington was going ahead with tariff hikes on technology goods and also would impose curbs on Chinese investment and purchases of US high-tech exports.

The move reflects growing American concern about China's status as a potential tech competitor and complaints Beijing improperly subsidises its fledgling industries and shields them from the competition.

Foreign governments and businesses cite strategic plans such as "Made in China 2025," which calls for state-led efforts to create Chinese industry leaders in areas from robots to electric cars to computer chips.

Trump also has threatened to raise tariffs on an additional $100 billion of Chinese goods, but gave no indication this week whether that would go ahead.

Earlier, China responded with a threat to retaliate with higher duties on a $50 billion list of American goods including soybeans, small aircraft, whiskey, electric vehicles and orange juice. It criticised Trump's move this week and said it reserved the right to retaliate but avoided repeating its earlier threat.

Trade analysts warned Ross's hand might be weakened by the Trump administration's decision Thursday to go ahead with tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada, Europe and Mexico.

That might alienate allies who share complaints about Chinese technology policy and a flood of low-priced steel, aluminium and other exports they say are the result of improper subsidies and hurt foreign competitors.Last year, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners (NYSE:BIP) was on fire as it produced a total return of nearly 40%, which crushed the red-hot S&P 500's 22% total return. Powering the infrastructure giant's gains was a needle-moving acquisition, which helped drive cash flow up 24% versus 2017.

This year, however, has been a different story as Brookfield has trailed the market badly by producing a negative total return of 13% versus the slightly more than 2% gain from the S&P 500. Because of that decline, and an 8% distribution increase earlier this year, Brookfield Instructure currently yields an attractive 4.93%. That's a great starting point for income-seeking investors, making this month a great time to consider buying this high-yield stock.

What's driving Brookfield's underperformance in 2018?

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners has continued its torrid earnings growth pace in 2018, delivering an impressive 20% year-over-year improvement in cash flow per share during the first quarter. Powering that strong start to the year was the continued impact from the acquisition of a major natural gas pipeline system in Brazil, which helped boost earnings in its utilities segment by 69% versus the first quarter of 2017.

That acquisition, however, won't provide nearly as much growth in the coming quarters because the company has now owned the asset for more than a year, so it will start going up against tougher comparable quarters. That timing isn't ideal because the company recently sold a large electric transmission business in Chile, which "may act as a partial drag on our near-term" cash flow, according to CEO Sam Pollock. Because of those two factors, Brookfield's cash flow could decline in the coming quarters until it puts the cash proceeds from that asset sale to work. That near-term cash flow headwind is why Brookfield Infrastructure has underperformed in 2018.

One step back to take two forward

While Brookfield's cash flow could head in reverse over the next couple of quarters, the company sold its Chilean transmission business to free up capital so that it could pursue higher-returning opportunities. That deal, along with a debt offering on its Brazilian pipeline unit, will bolster its liquidity to more than $4.5 billion, which is a huge war chest considering Brookfield Infrastructure's $28 billion enterprise value.

The company has already allocated some of that capital to several growth initiatives it has under way. Brookfield expects to invest $2 billion into high-return expansion projects over the next few years, which will help bolster cash flow as they come on line. In addition to that, the company is in the process of acquiring a gas distribution business in Colombia. It already bought an 11% stake in the entity and is working to buy a larger stake.

Meanwhile, Brookfield noted in its last letter to investors that it's currently reviewing a large opportunity set in the North American energy infrastructure market to make acquisitions, as well as partner with industry players that need financing for expansion projects. The company wrote in that letter that it's "in various stages of discussions with large midstream energy companies and are encouraged by the number of interesting opportunities in front of us." While there are no guarantees that Brookfield will find the right deals to move the needle, the large opportunity set in front of the company certainly increases the odds that it could put its cash to work quickly.

In addition to the near-term opportunities in the North American energy infrastructure space, Brookfield is also looking to build out its water business, as well as make investments in the data infrastructure space, in smart cities, and in Asia. While those are longer-term plays, the company believes it should have no shortage of growth opportunities ahead as it expands its global infrastructure empire.

This sale might not last long

Brookfield's sell-off due to its currently uncertain growth prospects provides investors with an excellent opportunity to not only buy the company for a better price but also lock in a yield of nearly 5%. That sets investors up to potentially earn double-digit returns in the coming years as the company's growth-focused investments begin paying off. That's too good of an opportunity to pass up, in my opinion, which is why I plan on adding to my Brookfield position this month.I don't care that Pfizer (NYSE:PFE) has lagged the market in recent years. And neither should you -- at least not if you're a long-term investor.

Looking in the rearview mirror too much can be hazardous to both drivers and investors. That's because the road ahead can be much different than the road already traveled. I believe that Pfizer's future prospects look much better than its performance over the past several years.

My view is that Pfizer ranks among the best big pharma stocks for long-term investors to buy right now. Here are three reasons why.

1. Anchors aweigh

A quick glance at Pfizer's Q1 results reveals two problematic areas for the company: legacy drugs and sterile injectables. Both businesses are part of Pfizer's essential health segment. Both also are like anchors weighing down the company's ability to move forward. But like the lyrics in the Navy fight song state, I think it will soon be "anchors aweigh" for Pfizer.

Pfizer fully expects that the negative impact from its older drugs that have lost exclusivity will steadily decline over the next few years. I think of this in a similar way as depreciation of a car. After buying a car, you lose the most value due to depreciation in the first few years. After a while, though, the lost value each year doesn't hurt nearly as much. Pfizer should experience a similar effect with its legacy drugs.

The company's sterile injectables business has been hampered by product shortages. Pfizer should make a lot of progress resolving these issues in 2018. I see this as only a temporary challenge that once resolved, sets the business up for nice growth.

Also, while Pfizer's consumer healthcare unit hasn't been a big drag for the company, it hasn't been a major driver of growth, either. Pfizer is looking at selling or spinning off the business and anticipates announcing a decision later this year. Either of these moves would benefit investors, in my opinion.

2. The fast-growing four -- and more

As the headwinds for its essential health segment subside, Pfizer's fast-growing products should shine even brighter than they do now. There are four currently approved products that I think will enjoy especially strong momentum.

At the top of the list is Ibrance. Sales for the cancer drug topped $3.1 billion last year. Market research firm EvaluatePharma projects Ibrance will reach sales of over $7 billion by 2022. Even if that estimate is overly optimistic, Pfizer should see strong growth for the drug for years to come.

Next up is Eliquis. Sales for the anticoagulant drug are growing nearly as fast as they are for Ibrance. Xeljanz, which is approved for treating psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ulcerative colitis, isn't far behind Eliquis in percentage year-over-year growth. It competes in a crowded market, but I still think Xeljanz will keep chugging along.

The fourth drug on my list -- Steglatro -- didn't even show up in Pfizer's Q1 results. The type 2 diabetes drug, which Pfizer co-markets with Merck, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2017. Steglatro, along with its combination products Steglujan and Segluromet, should become yet another blockbuster for Pfizer.

I also think more big winners will be on the way. Pfizer boasts a deep pipeline with 29 late-stage programs. I like the prospects for several of the company's oncology and rare disease candidates, plus its promising pain drug tanezumab, which is being co-developed with Eli Lilly.

3. That fantastic dividend

There's no way we can leave out Pfizer's fantastic dividend, which yields more than 3.8% right now. I suspect the yield could decline over the next few years -- but not because Pfizer will reduce its dividend payout. Instead, my view is that the stock could go up faster than the company's dividend hikes, resulting in a lower yield.

Don't get me wrong, though. I think Pfizer will boost its dividend regularly. Over the last five years, the company has increased its dividend by nearly 42%. My hunch is that's the kind of dividend growth we'll see in the future.

Long-term investors shouldn't discount how important Pfizer's dividend is. Over the last 10 years, Pfizer stock gained 87%. But its total return, which includes dividends, was nearly 180% during the period.

Twists and turns

There are always unexpected twists and turns in investing, especially in drug stocks. Pipeline failures could damage Pfizer's prospects. New competitors could enter the market that hurt current top-selling drugs.

However, Pfizer could just as easily benefit from developments that we can't anticipate now. The company could make a smart acquisition that gives it a solid growth engine. Experimental drugs that are in earlier clinical stages could turn into greater success stories than anyone expected.

But sitting where we are today, I think Pfizer is in a better position than it's been in a while to see market-beating total returns over a five- to 10-year window. In my view, now is a pretty good time for investors with a long-term perspective to buy this big pharma stock.

Editor's note: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that Xeljanz is approved for psoriasis. The Fool regrets the error.People need all the help they can get financially. When it comes to saving for retirement, a lot of people are behind where they need to be in order to afford what they want to do with their free time after the end of their careers.

To catch up, you need to make the most of the opportunities you have. One way to save for retirement is to use Roth IRAs, and many people have turned these retirement savings vehicles into wealth-making machines that give them tax-free growth and withdrawals after they quit their jobs. Now more than ever, Roth IRAs can have a dramatic impact on your financial success, but it's essential to know how they work and what you need to do to take full advantage of them.

Can I open a Roth IRA?

To open a Roth IRA, you need to meet two requirements. You need to have earned income from a job or from self-employment. You also need to meet the adjusted gross income limits that prevent high-income earners from contributing to Roths. You'll find those limits for 2018 Roth IRAs below:

For this filing status Contributions are reduced if income is above this amount Contributions are not available if income exceeds this amount Single, head of household, or married filing separately IF you didn't live with your spouse during the year $120,000 $135,000 Married filing jointly or qualifying widow or widower $189,000 $199,000 Married filing separately IF you lived with your spouse at any point during the year $0 $10,000

If your income is below the levels in the first column above, then you'll be allowed to contribute $5,500 to a Roth IRA in 2018 if you're younger than age 50, or $6,500 if you're 50 or older. Pro-rata reductions apply if your income falls in between the two numbers above. For example, joint filers with incomes of $198,000 would only be able to make Roth contributions of one-tenth of the limits, or $550 for those under 50 or $650 for those 50 or older.

You can open a 2018 Roth IRA right now. But you also have until mid-April 2019 to do so, because IRAs give you the ability to get an extended deadline before making contributions for a given tax year.

What other ways can I get money into a Roth?

If you don't meet the income limits for contributions, there's another way to move money into a Roth IRA. That involves taking money that's in traditional retirement accounts, including regular IRAs and 401(k) plans, and doing what's called a Roth conversion.

Roth conversions have pros and cons. On the downside, you have to pay taxes when you convert money in a regular IRA or 401(k) to a Roth. However, from then on, the money is treated the same way as a Roth contribution, giving you tax-free treatment for portfolio income and gains on your investments. The reason converting to a Roth is particularly advantageous right now is that with income tax rates having fallen as a result of tax reform, the tax hit you'll take from converting is less now than it has been in years.

Why it makes sense to have a Roth

Some people wonder why they really need a Roth IRA, especially if they already have another type of retirement account. Yet once you actually retire, there are several financial planning advantages of having a Roth at your disposal.

The biggest reason to consider a Roth is that it'll give you a tax-free source of money for retirement spending. Those who rely solely on traditional IRAs and 401(k)s often find that their tax bills are a lot higher than the expected, because they end up having to pay taxes on their distributions. Having a Roth at your disposal can let you control your tax bill, avoiding moving into too high of a tax bracket and also potentially working around some traps that can plague retirees whose taxable incomes are too large.

The worst thing a successful investor has to do is to give up hard-earned wealth to the IRS. The special treatment that Roth IRAs get avoids that outcome, letting you keep more of your money and ensuring you'll have the flexibility you need throughout your retired years.Social Security is a key source of income for older Americans, and people have historically done whatever they could in order to get the most from the program. Whether it's making the smartest personal decision on timing when you claim benefits or understanding what you can do during your career to boost the amount of benefits you'll be entitled to claim, there are a host of things you can do to put yourself in the best possible position to retire comfortably.

Yet some strategies for maximizing Social Security benefits have become controversial. In late 2015, lawmakers took steps to take away a couple of specific Social Security strategies. One of them is now history for anyone who didn't take immediate action two years ago, but there are still some people who can take advantage of the remaining opportunity while it lasts.

What benefits got taken away

Nearly three years ago, Congress and President Obama made a deal following a long battle over the federal budget. Under its terms, lawmakers and the White House agreed to eliminate two provisions that the laws governing Social Security allowed people to use. Many policymakers who supported their elimination described these provisions as loopholes, inflating what some couples were allowed to receive in what they saw as an unfair way.

The provision that got the most attention was known as "file and suspend." This strategy allowed a worker to file for benefits at full retirement age and then immediately suspend them. This move enabled spousal and children's benefits to get paid under that worker's earnings history while still enabling the worker to delay actually receiving regular retirement benefits. The worker could even earn delayed retirement credits and eventually get a larger payout. Under the changed rule, no one was allowed to file and suspend after April 2016.

The other strategy involved a similar move but from a slightly different perspective. Under the strategy known as "file as a spouse first" or FAASF for short, those who had reached full retirement age had the right to limit their claim of Social Security to cover only their spousal benefits. That let them collect a modest benefit from Social Security now, while letting their own retirement benefit grow further over time. Again, the retirement benefits would increase thanks to delayed retirement credits, which could boost their size by as much as 32%.

To understand how this might help someone, consider a simple example. If you had earned retirement benefits of $1,000 per month at full retirement age but your spouse had greater earnings to produce $2,000 in monthly benefits, then your spousal benefit would also be $1,000 per month. If you don't qualify for the FAASF strategy or choose not to use it, then you'll have to claim the spousal and retirement benefits at the same time. You can only take the greater of the two, not the total, and so you'd only get $1,000 per month.

However, if you qualify for FAASF, you can claim just your spousal benefit when you turn 66. You'll get the same $1,000 per month. But your own retirement benefit can earn delayed retirement credits. When you reach 70, you can claim those benefits and get $1,320 per month instead of $1,000. In other words, by filing as a spouse first, you can get an extra $320 per month for life after you turn 70.

Why some people in their mid-60s can still use FAASF

In a somewhat unusual move, the bill that eliminated these provisions gave generous grandfathering conditions for the FAASF strategy. Under its terms, anyone who turned 62 before Jan. 1, 2016, was allowed to file as a spouse first while not having been deemed to have claimed their own retirement benefits at the same time.

The confusing thing about this grandfathering provision is that 62-year-olds aren't actually allowed to use the FAASF strategy. You have to reach full retirement age before filing as a spouse first actually works, and for those covered under the grandfathering provision, full retirement age was 66. Therefore, some 62- and 63-year-olds haven't yet been able to take advantage of the rule, and the youngest in that group will have to wait until late 2019 before they can file as a spouse first and reap the benefits of the strategy.

Be smart about FAASF

If you're turning 66 this year or next, and haven't yet filed for Social Security benefits, keep filing as a spouse first in mind. It won't produce additional monthly benefits for everyone, but if it works for you, it can mean hundreds of dollars extra in your pocket every month for the rest of your life.I'm back!

So it's been a while! A lot has happened for the better so that's pretty exciting. I may not be getting engineering pay unfortunately, but life is pretty dang good!I got stationed in Wyoming so I'm living Cheyenne now. Before moving up, I got married to my (then) girlfriend of 6 1/2 years! She wont' be up here with me until the end of June though!I ended up taking my Bronco and towing the Camaro up as well:I also purchased my first house with my wife! (She hasn't physically been in it yet, but she likes what she's seen!) It's on .44 acres close to the center of Cheyenne so the location is nice and the lot is pretty big which is awesome! It's a really old house, and the interior could use a TON of remodeling, but it has tons of potential! It has a 2 car garage with an attached "shed" that looks like it used to be a garage bay. The shed portion unfortunately doesn't have a concrete foundation and the walls don't appear to be on a concrete foundation either, but I'll fix that soon enough. I plan on doing a lot of work myself on this house. Also, the previous owner left me a perfectly good riding lawnmower, miter saw, radial saw, drill press, nail gun, packages of nails and tons of other misc tools. He also left a tremendous amount of miscellaneous fasteners and other stuff that is pretty much useless/garbage, but I'm perfectly fine with it because all the other good stuff he left!Nice little bomb shelter that I'll turn into a movie/bar room probably!On top of all of that good stuff, I managed to pick up a 1994 F-150 for 200 dollars! It is pretty rusty, and needs a timing chain (has almost no power and misfires), but the interior is in super good shape and the 4x4 works well and the 5.8 motor starts right up!I ended up flat towing it 95 miles with my Bronco which was a little... interesting. The F-150 wanted to pull my Bronco back and forth, it was like a ferry ride. Needless to say I probably won't want to flat tow that far again! My Bronco has enough power to get me in trouble!The first performance mod I did to my house was disassemble the wall/counter-top the previous owner put in from of the "shed" bay door and unscrew the door (it was screwed into the framing) from the wall. I then got some large hinges and a deadbolt latch and fastened those to the door so it can swing open and secure! Due to the ground being plywood over 2x6's it doesn't make for the BEST garage, but it will have to do.OopsI already drew up plan to re-do the interior and to *** stone facade and stuff so I'm pretty excited for the house. I want to make the "shed garage" a real garage bay with a proper foundation (and supporting foundation walls etc.) and tie it into the existing garage better. It would be kinda nice to add a drain there as well so I can wash my vehicles in there and keep it as my vehicle shop! This will cost a bit of money, but it I do it all myself, I think it's feasible!Anyways, since I now have a little more time and am settling up here, I'll probably be on these forums more again! I need to get working on that F-150 so I can drive it normally!Could not establish database connection.

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The administrator has been notified and will resolve the problem ASAP.Turning the ship before it hits the icebergAt its annual gala on April 28 at the Greenwich Country Club, the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra honored Mary Radcliffe, recognizing her for her 30 years of leadership as the groups president.

Selectman John Toner presented her with a proclamation from the Town of Greenwich designating Saturday, April 28, as Mary Radcliffe Day.

David Gilbert is conductor of the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra, and Tara Simoncic is associate conductor. Sue Baker is chair of the annual gala, which benefits both the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra and the GSO Young Peoples Concerts.



Over 3,050 students were awarded degrees during the University of Vermonts 217th commencement ceremonies in Burlington in May. Local graduates included: Samantha Friedman of Greenwich, who earned a bachelor of science in psychological science; Jesse Kronengold of Greenwich, who earned a bachelor of arts in English; Oliver More of Greenwich, who earned a bachelor of arts in history; Courtney Oarr of Greenwich, who earned a bachelor of arts in English; Sam Oe of Greenwich, who earned a bachelor of arts in computer science; Samantha Salony of Greenwich, who earned a bachelor of science in psychological science; Edward Smith of Old Greenwich, who earned a bachelor of science in electrical engineering; and Vincent Urbanowski of Greenwich, who earned a bachelor of arts in music.



Zachary John Monick graduated from Elon University in Elon, N.C., on May 19 with a bachelor of science in business administration. He majored in marketing and entrepreneurship. He is the son of Stephen E. Monick Sr. and Nelly Monick of Greenwich.



Carlos A. Barrenechea of Greenwich earned a bachelor of science in marketing from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain. Commencement exercises were held May 19 at the XL Center in Hartford.



David A. DeLeon of Greenwich was among more than 890 students who earned bachelors and associates degrees at the undergraduate commencement exercises held May 27 for the University of Scranton in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. DeLeon earned a bachelor of science degree in finance.



The following local students were named to the Deans List at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pa., for the spring semester: Anna Black, Class of 2018 from Greenwich; Brooke Collins, Class of 2020 from Greenwich; Tyler Dagnino, Class of 2020 from Riverside; Cara English, Class of 2018 from Riverside; Lindsay Erickson, Class of 2018 from Riverside; Kim Ghahramani, Class of 2018 from Greenwich; Beth Johnson, Class of 2021 from Greenwich; Lili Kilkenny, Class of 2021 from Greenwich; Andrew Kjorlien, Class of 2019 from Greenwich; Ben Langley, Class of 2019 from Cos Cob; Douglas Lee, Class of 2018 from Riverside; Lily McKenna, Class of 2021 from Greenwich; Lily Nobunaga, Class of 2021 from Cos Cob; Connor OBrien, Class of 2018 from Greenwich; David Ruf, Class of 2019 from Greenwich; Nicole Vassiliou, Class of 2021 from Riverside; and Agus Whamond, Class of 2019 from Riverside.



Andrew Collins of Greenwich was named to the Spring 2018 Presidents List at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, N.Y.Published on 2018/06/03 | Source

The rapidly aging society is causing the number of deaths to outstrip the number of births. The number of deaths in Korea remained at around 200,000 per year from 1970 until last year but is expected to surpass 300,000 this year and reach 420,000 in 2030 and 570,000 in 2059.

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In contrast, the number of births each year fell from 1 million in 1970 to around 300,000 last year and is expected to fall even further to 240,000 in 2040 and 170,000 in 2059, according to Statistics Korea.

Some 2.86 million deaths occurred in Korea last year to reach the highest level since statistics began in 1970, while the number is forecast to surpass 300,000 this year. The number of deaths reached 81,800 during the first three months of this year, up 12.1 percent compared to the same period of 2017.

Lee Ji-yeon at Statistics Korea said, "The number of people in their 70s and 80s is rising steeply, so it seems obvious to see the number of deaths surpass 300,000 next year".

As a result, population decline due to natural causes is expected to start in 2023, five years earlier than the government had expected.

Experts said Korea's total population has risen from 30.88 million in 1970 to 51.23 million last year, up 65.9 percent over about a half a century, but it is uncommon to see the number of deaths each year remaining at the 200,000 level since 1970.

Cho Young-tae and Seoul National University said, "This is because the average lifespan increased at an unprecedented rate thanks to improving health conditions, advances in medical technology and expanded health insurance benefits. The extended life spans resulted in a sharp drop in the number of deaths, causing the number of deaths to remain largely flat".

But things are about to change. Statistics Korea said the number of deaths over the next 30 years will be 1.9 times greater than the figure seen from 1988 to 2017.

The shift is expected to cause huge social and economic ripple effects. First, there will be a surge in funeral expenses and a shortage of grave sites in and around the capital.

According to the Korea Consumer Agency, the average funeral costs stood at W13.8 million per person in 2015, with the total cumulative costs reaching W3 trillion a year (US$=W1,075). It is expected to reach W4 trillion in the late 2020s and between W5 trillion and W7 trillion in the 2040s.

There is a drastic shortage of crematoriums in the Seoul metropolitan area. According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, there are 59 crematoriums throughout the nation, but there is already a shortage in Seoul, Busan and Gyeonggi areas. A Health Ministry official said, "It is hard to build new crematoriums since nobody wants them in their neighborhoods".

Also expected is a shortage of medical institutions, geriatric care facilities and nursing staff to tend to patients with dementia and those with terminal illnesses. Out of the total number of deaths, 76 percent take place in hospitals, and sick elderly people spend an average of 20 months in nursing facilities before death.By Panos Kotzathanasis | Published on 2018/06/02

Considered by many as the best Korean movie ever made, "The Aimless Bullet" is a true masterpiece, and ode to realism focusing on the lives of the non-privileged in the country, in the post-armistice period. The then government banned "Obaltan" (its Korean name) because of its unremittingly downbeat depiction of life in post-armistice South Korea. An American consultant to the Korean National Film Production Center saw the film and persuaded the government to release it in Seoul so that it might qualify for entry in the San Francisco International Film Festival. Director Yu Hyun-mok attended the film's premier in San Francisco in November 1963 (source: Wikipedia).

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The script is based on the awarded, homonymous novel by Yi Beomseon and revolves around two brothers, Cheol-ho and Yeong-ho, who share the same roof with their mother, who suffers from PTSD constantly screaming "Let's get out of here!", the former's wife and daughter, and their sister. The family is drowning in (financial) misery. Cheol-ho works as a clerk in an accountant's office, turning up as many hours as possible, without significant financial gain though, to the point that he feels that he cannot even go to the dentist to take care of an extremely painful toothache. Yeong-ho has not managed to get a job for two years since he has returned from the army, and aimlessly spends his time drinking with his war buddies. Their sister, Myeong-sook, used to be a nurse during the war, but following an unrequited relationship, she ends up whoring to American soldiers. Eventually, a shine of hope falls onto Yeong-ho, when a friends suggests him to play a part in a movie, and an accidental meeting with a nurse he used to have a crush on during the war, who seems to also have feelings for him. Alas, this is not a film where hope prevails in any way, with the heartbreaking finale highlighting the fact in the most dramatic fashion.

Yu Hyun-mok directs a film that thrives on the analysis of his characters, and particularly of the two brothers, with the focus being on Yeong-ho, a truly tragic figure who comes to realize that his achievements during the war mean nothing in the new Korea, in the most painful way. The way Yu deconstructs him, while presenting his downward spiral, is magnificent, highlighting the fact that despite his efforts, nothing works for him, but not due to a lack of struggle, but due to powers much higher than his. In that fashion, and as despair seems to take over both him and his former comrades, Yu justifies his actions during the finale, of a man who feels he has nothing to lose anymore. His mentality is presented quite well through a dialogue with a former comrade, who is in an even worse situation, having to use crutches to walk, who considers himself a burden for everyone around him, with Yeong-ho soon realizing that he is the same for his brother.

Cheol-ho on the other hand, presents another image of hopelessness, that of a man who is not a burden himself, but is being constantly drowned by the "burdens" in his life, which actually include his whole family, who is utterly dependant on him. His toothache actually functions metaphorically for his life, which is also a constant ache he cannot get rid of.

Myeong-sook represents the issues women had to face at the time, where the job opportunities for them were very scarce, and their only hope was to marry a man who would take care of them, in a society where conservatism was the actual law, with women being prohibited from being outside their houses during the night. Her antithesis with Cheol-ho's wife, also serves as an example of the misery associated with all of the characters, as even she, who has achieved some success in her life with the then standards, by being married and giving birth to a child, is in a situation not much better that her sister-in-law, barely having money to feed herself and her daughter.

Through all these characters, Yu Hyun-mok makes a rather pointy remark for both the society and the practices of the then government, who seemed to have very little concern about its citizens, in an era where social welfare was non-existent. Lastly, the character of the mother has a rather ominous presence, as she highlights the consequences the war had on the non-combatants, with her repeated gasping, "let's get out of here" functioning as the film's synopsis regarding the way all the characters feel.

Kim Hak-seong's cinematography is also masterful, with him presenting the hopeless settings the character roam at (both in their house and in various other places that include bars, offices etc) with a combination of artistry and realism, that even includes shots of bullet holes, barbed wire, and bombed areas of Seoul that highlight the fact that the war and its consequences are still here.

The acting is on a very high-level. Kim Jin-kyu as Cheol-ho portrays greatly a man whose is trapped in a life of pain due to his conscience, with his kindness and caring for the whole of his family being an unsolvable problem. Choi Moo-ryong as Yeong-ho portrays a man who does not seem to get a break, and eventually succumbs to violence due to his hopelessness and his sense of shame for being useless and a burden to his brother. Seo Ae-ja as Myeong-sook is quite convincing.

"The Aimless Bullet" is a true masterpiece, a film one would have to search very hard to find any faults, and a wonderful portrait of the issues post-war Korea had to face, through an approach that could be compared to the one implemented in Greek tragedies.

Review by Panos Kotzathanasis

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"The Aimless Bullet" is directed by Yu Hyun-mok and features Kim Jin-kyu, Choi Moo-ryong, Seo Ae-ja and Moon Jung-suk.

Available on Blu-ray from YESASIA



Blu-ray (En Sub)Published on 2018/06/03 | Source

Korea's land area increased by 24 sq.km last year, the equivalent of about eight times the size of Yeouido in Seoul.

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According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport on Monday, almost 16 sq.km of the new land came from a reclamation project in Haenam, South Jeolla Province.

The development of a technology valley in Siheung, Gyeonggi Province chipped in another 2.8 sq.km. The rest was mostly due to registration of previously unlisted lands.

Over the past decade, the amount of agricultural land and forests has shrunk while urban areas and land dedicated to transport infrastructure has grown.



We're a family of seven living in Georgia where Andrew's working as a professor at GSU. You can read more about us hereWhere to go to see this fall's foliage show in the Tri-State areaA dalit carried his brother-in-laws body on a hand cart through the city on Saturday for around 6 km in Sagar due to unavailability of a hearse, shocking the people who witnessed the incident, and saw the video that went viral in the social media. The district collector has ordered an inquiry.

Suresh Ahirwar said his brother-in-law Prakash Ahirwar (40) had been admitted to Bundelkhand Medical College due to a liver ailment, where he died on Friday night. Prakash earned his livelihood by transporting goods in his hand cart, and lived alone in Bhagwangunj area after his wife left him some years back.

Some policemen at the hospital told me to take the body and as he had no one else, I took it to my house in Motinagar for the last rites. No one stopped me and no one offered any vehicle to me. I too push a hand cart and as I could not afford to hire a vehicle that would have cost at least Rs 500, I carried it on the hand cart.

Suresh is so poor that he does not have money for last rites. If I cannot collect the money, I will bury him, Suresh said.

Bundelkhand Medical College dean Dr GS Patel said the hospital superintendent Dr Verma told him that no one had approached him for a hearse.

The medical college has no hearse, but one vehicle is there with the district hospital and the Red Cross has three such vehicles which could have been arranged, he said

Sagar collector A K Singh said he had asked the dean to inquire into the matter and take action if lapses were found.A man allegedly tried to commit suicide by setting himself afire on Saturday after his wife deleted some messages and numbers from his mobile phone. The husband has been admitted to Damoh district hospital with 40% to 50% burns.

Gyani Chakravarti of Hindoriya village, Damoh said he took the drastic step out of anger after his wife Bhaggo deliberately deleted some of the numbers and message from his mobile.

Gyani is a daily-wager and in addicted to alcohol which often led to fights with his wife, sources said.

District hospital police sub-station officer ASI Vinod Karolia said Gyanis condition is stable. We have recorded his statement and going to his village for further investigation.Shree Narayan Singhs Batti Gul Meter Chalu has been going through a rough patch for quite some time but that hasnt deterred actor Shahid Kapoor, the films lead actor, from keeping up the momentum. The actor has continued to prep for the project, even when the shoot got stalled in April, owning to producer Prernaa Aroras failure to pay crew wages.

Filmmaker Bhushan Kumar has taken the film under his wings and now and his production house has moved to court over receiving final injunction from Prernaa. Meanwhile, writers of the film, Sidharth Singh and Garima Wahal, have accused Shree for copyright infringement

Read| We want to make it as well if not better, says Shahid Kapoor on Arjun Reddy remake

But, reportedly, they have resolved it. The film is finally back on track since end of last month. However, amidst these controversies, Shahid has been rehearsing for two songs for the

film, the audio of which were recorded earlier this year.

And, Shahid was always hopeful that everything will be resolved, soon. Though shooting got stalled, Shahid didnt waste time. He was rehearsing for two songs of the film. Now that they have resumed work, the actor will shoot for the tracks with Shradhha Kapoor. Both the songs are youth-based, peppy and fun numbers, says a source.

Being a trained dancer, Shahid has also improvised a few steps during their practice sessions. Everyone knows about Shahids passion for dance. So when they were rehearsing, he improvised and some steps that he has been retained in the songs, adds the source.

Shraddha and Shahid will be shooting the drama around Tehri and Dehradun till mid-June. The next and final schedule for the film will be in Mumbai, where actor Yami Gautam will join the team. Yami, who plays the role of a lawyer in the film has already started doing the rounds of court sessions to prepare for her role.

Talking about his character in the film, Shahid had earlier told Mumbai Mirror, It sounds cool but its very difficult to pull off. My character is a small-town lawyer, a regular bloke who fights for an issue with which so many people in our country are grappling  power cuts and outrageously high electricity bills.

Interact with Shreya Mukherjee on Twitter/ @Shreya_MJUttarakhand police has arrested a man from Uttar Pradesh in connection with murder of a 27-year-old man, whose body was found in Nainital district on May 12, an official said on Sunday.

Vipin Chandra Pant, Maliltal police station in-charge, said after the murdered man was identified as Manoj Singh from Uttar Pradeshs Moradabad district, police found that there was a land dispute between Manoj and his younger brother Ravi Singh.

On May 26, Uttarakhand police arrested Ravi from Uttar Pradesh. During questioning, Pant said, the deceaseds brother revealed that he had sought help from his friend.

Sanjeev Kumar, 41, had made Manoj drunk before he was murdered. We have arrested him and we are questioning him to ascertain the extent of his role in the murder. We are also looking into his call details to see his location during the time of murder, he said.

Pant said Kumar had come to Nainital and he was arrested on an input from an informer.

Police said during interrogation, Ravi admitted that he murdered his elder brother. A case was lodged against Ravi under under Indian Penal Code sections for murder and causing disappearance of evidence of offence, or giving false information to screen offender.

On May 12, local residents informed police that there was a body lying 10 to 15 metres off the road nearly 2 km from Bajun towards Kaladungi. The spot is nearly 15 km from Nainital.

Police reached the spot and found the body with its hands and feet tied and a cloth strip around its neck. After much difficulty, police was able to identify the body.With broad walkways, decorative lights, aerating fountains and cabanas, the lake at historic Purana Quila, once famous for boat rides, will be ready to welcome visitors again this October. However, the boating facility that was stopped in August 2016 will not be available for now.

To redevelop the 23-acre area of the 16th century citadel, built by Mughal emperor Humayun and Sher Shah, into a visitor-friendly picnic spot, the National Building Construction Corporation (NBCC) will be creating an amenities block, parking area, cafeteria and a souvenir shop. RO water dispensers will also be installed at various spots.

A small interpretation centre is also being developed, where tourists will be able to get information about the history of Purana Quila complex.

Since its creation in 1971, this is the first major redevelopment and beautification work of the lake and its vicinity that is being implemented.

The NBCC adopted the ancient site under the culture ministrys adopt a monument scheme announced last year. The project cost is Rs 27 crore, which is being shared by the Corporation and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The renovation work began in March 2018.

New features  Decorative lamp posts, cabanas and amenities block  Cafeteria, souvenir shop and state-of-the-art ticket counters equipped with modern security features

We are working expeditiously to meet the October 2 deadline. The redeveloped area and lake will be reopened to public on Gandhi Jayanti. At present, there is no plan to restart boating because it requires certain depth to run vessels and we are not going beyond the depth of two metres, said a senior official of NBCC, who is associated with the project.

Lake Restoration

Appropriate measures are being taken to maintain the water level and hygiene of the water body. It includes dredging, placing plastic waterproofing membrane in the bed, installation of aerating fountains and a silt chamber to prevent rainwater sludge flowing into the lake.

Plastic waterproofing membrane in the lake bed will stop water loss. It will not allow water to seep into the ground. We are putting 8-11 aerating fountains to keep water circulation. We will do frequent chlorine treatment to maintain its cleanliness and prevent breeding of bacteria, said Anoop Kumar Mittal, chairman and managing director, NBCC.

Initially, 50 lakh cubic metre water is needed to revive the water body. The NBCC will arrange it from Delhi Jal Boards Okhla sewage treatment plant (STP) and, thereafter, it will get supply of rainwater.

We have already had talks with the DJB. They have agreed to supply adequate water. We are arranging water from other source also. We want to complete the project before the monsoon, by end of June, said NK Pathak, superintending archaeologist, Delhi circle (ASI).

Illumination

To facilitate walking around the lake, broad walkways and ramps are being laid. Decorative street lamps will be installed along its path and also in lakeside area. Benches and cabanas are also being set up so that the picnickers can enjoy their visit even during rains, said Raman Kumar Aggarwal, executive director, NBCC.

In addition to state-of-the-art ticket counters equipped with modern security features, the fort illumination is also part of the comprehensive redevelopment plan, said another NBCC official.

Existing facade lights will be replaced with LED lamps. As per the plan, Qila-e-Kuhna Mosque situated inside the fort complex, Bara Darwaza (main gateway facing Mathura Road) and entire rampart starting from the gate to Bhairon Mandir are to be illuminated. The lighting arrangement will be a mix of facade and architectural lightings to highlight details of structural components like jharokhas (overhanging balconies) and arches.

Recent history of Purana Quila

The lake forms part of the moat once surrounding the fort, which would get water from Yamuna. Until the moat was redeveloped as boating destination in 1971-72, it was filled with garbage and its neighbourhood was encroached upon.

Soon after the Partition, temporary shelters were set up within the monuments in south Delhi, including Purana Quila complex to accommodate refugees. Thousands of people stayed at the old fort for months before they were rehabilitated in colonies across the city.

While people residing at Purana Quila were relocated, a few commercial establishments such as timber stores, coal depots and furniture shops continued to stay along the outer wall of the fort, writes former Delhi lieutenant-governor Jagmohan says in his book Triumphs and Tragedies of Ninth Delhi.

Squatters were removed from the site and relocated to Mayapuri, Naraina industrial area and in west Delhi around 1967.

The cleared area was redeveloped. In place of muddy and garbage ridden moat, a delightful water body of substantial length and breadth was created between the wall of the fort and the main road, says the book.

After getting rid of squatters, the Delhi Development Authority was given the task to redevelop the moat and its surrounding, which also started the boating in 1971.

The original custodian was Land and Development Office (L&DO), which was later handed over to ASI. The DDA introduced boating facility in the artificial lake at the site. The authority ran boating facility for 20 years and in 1992-93, it was handed over to Delhi Tourism, said AK Jain, former commissioner (planning), DDA.

Since August 2016, the site is shut as the ASI did not renew the contract with Delhi Tourism department.The Centre will bring a bill in Parliament to ensure that schools do not assign homework to students of classes 1 and 2, HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar said.

His remarks came in the wake of an interim order of the Madras High Court on May 30 asking the Centre to instruct state governments to reduce the weight of childrens school bags and do away with homework for classes 1 and 2.

Javadekar said he believed there cannot be learning without fun.

I welcome the decision (of the court). We are studying the order and will definitely do whatever is required, he told a press conference in Kolkata on Saturday.

The Union minister said the Centre will bring a no homework bill in the Monsoon Session of Parliament in compliance with the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, and hoped it will be passed.

I believe there has to be a learn with fun. Children should not be put under any pressure. We will do whatever is required to lessen the pressure on children in compliance with the court order, Javadekar said.

Noting that children are neither weightlifters nor school bags loaded containers, the high court had asked the state government to ensure that the weight of the satchels should not be more than 10% of the weight of the child.

Justice N Kirubakaran had also directed the Centre to instruct the state governments not to prescribe any other subjects except language and mathematics for classes 1 and 2 students.

(This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.)The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on Sunday conducted the civil services preliminary examination across the country. A large number of candidates appeared for the examination to fill approximately 782 vacancies.

A number of students who appeared in the UPSC prelims exam from Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh found the first paper (general studies) a bit tough.

Abhishek Tiwari from Chhatarpur in Bundelkhand region said, Usually the first paper is not so tough in UPSCs prelims examination but this year proved to be an exception.

Ashita Saini from Bhopal said, There was much focus on history related questions in the first paper which was quite unusual. There was a change in the pattern too.

Premnath Sherke said, The questions were ok but asked in a roundabout manner particularly in the section related to environmental science in the first paper.

Bhopal student Shivani Sharma who claims to have cleared UPSC civil services (mains) examination last year said, The CSAT paper was different this year. English section was Ok but maths was a bit difficult. Aptitude test was easier to tackle last year.

Tarul Singh also from Bhopal said, My first paper was good but had difficulty in comprehending the second paper questions particularly relating to mathematics.

The civil services examination is conducted by the UPSC annually in three stages - preliminary, main and interview - to select officers for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) among others.Three cases of carjacking by different groups of unidentified armed men were reported from across the city, on Saturday.

In the first incident, a gang of four armed robbers allegedly snatched an Innova car from driver Jaswant Singh, who was waiting in the parking lot opposite Hotel Westin in Sector 29.

In the second incident, five robbers snatched a Fortuner car from near IFFCO Chowk on Friday. Police said that they were scrutinising CCTV footage to nab the accused.

In the third incident, four men allegedly stole a Land Rover at gun-point from near Genpact Chowk, on Thursday night.

Cases under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and The Arms Act were registered in corresponding police stations.

Latest police statistics show that seven vehicles are stolen in Gurugram every day.It has the malls, pubs, and restaurants, but the high incidence of crimes against women in Gurugram remains a cause for serious concern.

I often have to walk on MG Road to reach the Metro station, and to be honest, it is very scary. Every other day, there are drunken brawls taking place, and many illegal activities are evidently taking place in the open, Mannat Sharma, a resident of Sector 17, said.

The rate of crimes against women has been rising in Gurugram and the majority of them are sexual, affecting both working women as well as those who come to enjoy the citys nightlife. Since the 1990s, when the first influx of multinational companies to Gurugram took place, the city has seen a drastic shift from rural to urban.

Anoop Kumar, a research scholar from Jawahar Lal Nehru University who is working on urban spaces, explained the citys high rate of crimes against women as a fallout of the areas rapid change from rural to urban. Gurugram is at a wrong socio-cultural conjunction as urban rich, local villagers and professionals are neither living in sync nor are they on the same page, said Kumar.

One of the most notorious stretches in Gurugram is MG Road stretch, famously called the Mall Mile. It has a number of malls and approximately 50 pubs and bars. The area is well-known for incidents of violence, drunken brawls, sexual harassment, rape, and abduction.

Women complain of limited police presence and shoddy infrastructure, such as a lack of streetlights on the stretch.

Police statistics show these fears are not unfounded. The majority of the reported crimes against women in the city are sexual. In 2017, 137 cases of rape were reported in Gurugram and 39 cases of rape have been reported in just the first three months of this year. Ninety cases of sexual harassment have also been reported between January and April of 2018.

Gurugram Police said it has sanctioned four new women Police Control Room (PCR) vans and increased patrolling during the night to make women feel safer in the city.

Since 2016, the police has held regular Town Hall meetings in industrial areas to make sure women know about their rights and the processes that are in place in case of an emergency.

Commissioner of police, Gurugram, Sandeep Khirwar said that the police have been dealing with crimes against women on a priority basis.

There is a helpline that women can call and it receives nearly 250 calls daily. In case of an emergency, a PCR van rushes to the spot within 10 minutes.After the December 16 gangrape in New Delhi, Gurugram Police also set up a special Rapid Action Force (RAF) of 52 women officers who were charged with responding to incidents of harassment, misconduct and other crimes against women.

Several steps have been taken to make the women feel safe in the city be it setting up of women police stations, Romeo free drives, training women [in self defence], strengthening of 1091 helpline, along with increasing sensitisation of police personnel, Khirwar said.

Despite these efforts, most women still feel unsafe while travelling in the city alone, particularly in the evening and at night.

I have to travel from Delhi every day to Cyber City and often get late while returning from office. It sends chills down my spine when it gets dark and I have to travel alone, even to the Metro station, said Nikita Thakar, who works as an executive at a multinational corporation.

At present, there are 332 women cops posted against 403 vacancies in the city, which means there are still 171 women police officers needed. Policewomen said their work takes them to the opposite ends of society, from slums to condominiums. Many said they faced challenges such as language barriers and diverse cultural backgrounds while policing.

Inspector Poonam Hooda of Gurugram Police, who often works on night shifts, said functioning streetlights, more policewomen and more PCR vans need to be top priorities. Hooda would also like local authorities to take the issue of public transport seriously.

I strongly want authorities to work towards improving the local transport across the city so the women can use it instead of private cabs or unruly autorickshaws, she said.

They would feel safer while travelling in a public transport, she added.

Regular commuters, such as Sukreeti Dagar, a 26-year-old resident of the city, agree. Metro seems to be the only option, but it does not have last-mile connectivity, Dagar pointed out. We are either left with the option of taking cabs or autos, both of which are extremely expensive and also not very safe.Five spots in Gurugram identified as dangerous for pedestrians may soon get speed tables to slow vehicles down and pelican lights that allow the traffic signal to be controlled from the sidewalk, according to officials familiar with the developments.

A committee of road safety experts, appointed by the Haryana government, has identified the Sector 17/18 T-intersection, Hanuman Mandir chowk, the T-point at the Palam Mor, Bakhtawar chowk, and the T-intersection at Jwala Mill as the places where pedestrians are most vulnerable.

The initiative is part of Haryana Vision Zero, a scheme that aims at reaching zero fatality in road accidents, covering Gurugram and nine other districts.

Once the committee started analysing the spots, the one feature that stood out was that they werent pedestrian-friendly in any manner. Even the speed breakers installed at some of these spots did not adhere to the Indian Road Congress guidelines, said Sarika Panda Bhatt, program coordinator of Haryana Vision Zero said.

Speed tables are similar to speed breakers, but are much longer and have flat instead of rounded tops. Experts say they not only help to keep speeding vehicles in check, but also allow pedestrians to walk on them to cross the road.

According to the Haryana Vision Zero officials, the speed tables will be elevated 10 cm from the road, and will be 5 feet wide. They will include retro-reflective plates installed on them so that motorists spot them easily at night.

Pelican lights are similar to pedestrian traffic lights with an added feature of a button that turns traffic lights green to red when pushed, allowing pedestrians to cross the road easily and signalling vehicles to stop moving.

Data with Gurugram Police reveals that between 24 accidents and four fatalities occurred between January 1, 2017, and April 1, 2018 at the Sector 17/18 T-intersection. During the same period, 23 accidents and four deaths were recorded at Hanuman Mandir chowk, 21 and six at the Palam Mor T-point, 25 and nine at Bakhtawar chowk and 16 and five at Jwala Mill T-intersection.

Haryana Vision Zero officials say they have submitted a report to the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG).

The report asks for three other checks at each of these spots -- footpaths, cycle tracks (if possible) and proper road signs. It also asks authorities to clear electrical poles, encroachments and paint zebra crossings.

Any engineering change which brings down the risks posed to residents, is welcomed and I will gladly implement these at the designated spots, said MCG commissioner Yashpal Yadav.British actor Benedict Cumberbatch, known for his portrayal of fictional crime-fighter Sherlock Holmes and comic book superhero Doctor Strange in the Marvel movies, has been hailed a hero for chasing away four assailants as they mugged a cyclist in London.

Cumberbatch, 41, jumped out of his taxi and ran to the aid of the man working for food delivery company Deliveroo as he was set upon by the muggers, the Sun newspaper reported.

The cyclist was lucky, Benedicts a superhero, Cumberbatchs Uber driver Manuel Dias told the Sun. Benedict was courageous, brave and selfless. If he hadnt stepped in the cyclist could have been seriously injured.

The attempted robbery took place on Marylebone High Street, just around the corner from Holmes fictional home on Baker Street.

One of the males attempted to grab the victims cycle ... He was then punched in the face, struck on the head and hit with his helmet, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement, adding that the incident took place in November last year.

Nothing was reported stolen. The victim did not require hospital treatment. No arrests have been made, the statement added.

Cumberbatch, who has played the fictional detective in TV series Sherlock since 2010, has also starred in films such as The Hobbit, Avengers: Infinity War and The Imitation Game, where he portrayed British World War Two codebreaker Alan Turing.

Dias said the actor ran up to the assailants and pulled them away, shouting leave him alone before they fled.

Cumberbatch told the Sun he was not a hero.

I did it out of, well, I had to, you know , he was quoted as saying.

(This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.)

Follow @htshowbiz for moreTrust Tom Cruise to bring something new even after five instalments of his popular franchise Mission Impossible. The 55-year-old actor has once again challenged his limits in one of the most daredevil stunts in Hollywood. Its called the halo (high altitude, low opening) jump, and it needs the performer to be in total control of their senses 25,000 feet above the sea level.

In a video released by the makers, Tom Cruise reveals how he practised the jump for more than 100 times and finally shot it in one take.

The 2-minute-37-second video shows how Cruise underwent special training to perform the scene. Even a customised helmet was created for the stunt which worked as a life-saving device as well as a prop during the stunt.

Christopher McQuarrie, the director, says that he was in discussion with Cruise about the halo jump sequence for over a year. The risks during the stunt involved severe anxiety, losing mental stability and hypoxia (deficiency of oxygen in tissues).

The team also built a wind machine for rehearsals, and it turned out to be a big air tunnel.

Cruise thanks the government of the UAE for the accomplishment of the mammoth task. Everyday the team performed five jumps in order to get their final act right. It had to be absolutely on point because even a small mistake could lead to a disaster when Cruise was coming towards earth at a speed of 220 mile per hour (340 kph).

Mission: Impossible franchise started in 1996, and its sixth instalment will hit the screens on July 27, 2018. The film also features Henry Cavill, Simon Pegg and Alec Baldwin in important roles.Eleven days after police in Tamil Nadu fired on protesters seeking the shutdown of a Sterlite copper plant, killing 13, residents say people suspected of involvement in the demonstrations are being targeted in a wave of arrests.

More than 10 people have been picked up by the police in raids over the last four days in and around the port city of Thoothukudi, according to lawyer E Athisayakumar, who is working along with other local lawyers to release those detained. Police confirmed that arrests were taking place.

The crackdown highlights the tensions that continue to fester despite the Tamil Nadu state governments order to permanently shut down the smelter, on environmental grounds, in the aftermath of the deadly protests - a move that sources say the company may appeal.

The district administration says the area is returning to normality, with shops and businesses reopening and buses running. But some residents say deep divisions remain in the city and surrounding villages between the protesters, the authorities and Sterlite copper plant employees.

We are scared that the police will randomly drop by and pick us up without explanations, said 44-year-old local man S Kasirajan. Eight other residents who spoke to Reuters said they too were living in constant fear of arrest.

The Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers Office and the head of the state police did not respond to emails seeking comment on the total number of people detained, or whether the authorities planned to arrest more people. D Jayakumar, a senior minister who has previously spoken on behalf of the state government, said he did not want to offer an immediate comment.

Lawyers said those arrested were accused of breaching orders banning gatherings that had been made in the run-up to the May 22 demonstration, and of protesting without permission.

Police said more than 80 generic complaints, which did not name the accused, had been filed by residents at a local police station - allowing them to arrest anyone they suspected of involvement in what they described as anti-social activities.

Early morning raids

More than 150 people held in the days following the violence have been bailed by the courts after lawyers filed petitions seeking their release, said AWD Thilak, the head of the Thoothukudi Bar Association.

Among those arrested in recent days were three men picked up in a village near Thoothukudi early on Thursday for breaching the orders banning gatherings that were imposed on May 22, according to police and the mens families.

P Parthiban, a 27-year old welder from the village Meelavitaan, was taken from his home at 3:15 am, a family member told Reuters.

T Balasingh, 30, who runs a shop in the village, was dragged by his collar to a jeep parked outside after police broke into his house, his mother T Jayaleela said.

None of the 15-20 policemen were in uniform, family members of both men said.

When family and friends of Balasingh went to the police station where a case against him was filed, a police inspector pointed at some of those present in the station and said Ill pick you, you and you up, Jayaleela said.

He intimidated us and asked us to leave immediately, and said he was going to pick up 10 more people from our village, she said.

When contacted by Reuters the inspector, M Hariharan, confirmed the incident, saying he knew the people in his district who had broken the law.

The investigations are on, and we will detain anyone who breached the law, Hariharan said.

Inquiry launched

Witnesses told Reuters that police gave no warning before opening fire with live ammunition at a crowd of tens of thousands of people, and they appear to have ignored police rules on quelling protests. Ten people were killed on the day and three more have died since.

The state government has announced an investigation headed by a retired magistrate into what was Indias deadliest environmental protest in more than a decade, and the home ministry has requested a report. But authorities have declined to comment further on the progress of the investigation or any possible action against police involved.

A working group of United Nations human rights experts on Thursday condemned the apparent excessive and disproportionate use of lethal force by police against the protesters.

People in Thoothukudi protested against the operation of Sterlite Copper smelter, one of Indias only two major copper smelters, after it had announced plans to double its capacity.

The demonstration on May 22 quickly got out of hand as numbers swelled to at least 50,000 and the protesters reached district government offices. A senior administrative official said the protesters had been given permission to rally in a park, but not march on the district headquarters which the authorities viewed as a siege.

The escalation also revealed a split among the protesters themselves, people on both sides said, with those from the city wanting to abide by the restrictions for fear of violence, while many from the villages nearer the smelter wanted more radical action.

Vedanta Resources has been accused by local residents and environmentalists of polluting the citys air and ground water. The company has denied it is in breach of any environmental laws, and has called the protesters deaths absolutely unfortunate.

Two sources close to the company told Reuters Vedanta was working on a legal challenge to the closure of the plant by the state government, but would not proceed until local tensions have eased.The BJP has rubbished a post-mortem report cited by the police which said that a party worked found hanging from a power pylon in Balarampur in Purulia district of West Bengal Saturday morning had committed suicide and has demanded a CBI probe.

The death of two BJP workers in Purulia district of West Bengal over the past three days also triggered mudslinging between saffron party and the ruling Trinamool Congress with the former threatening to move to the court demanding Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the matter.

The state government already ordered a criminal investigation department enquiry in the matter.

Purulias new police superintendent, Akash Magharia said that the post-mortem report concluded that Dulal committed suicide. Dulals body was traced on Saturday hanging from a high-tension electrical post. Today we have received the report which states the reason of the death as suicide. But further investigations are on, Magharia said.

Rubbishing Magharias claims that the reason of Dulals death was suicide, BJPs state general secretary, Sayantan Basu said that the police are trying to shield the murderers associated with Trinamool Congress and hence they are bringing forward the suicide theory.

We have decided to move to the court and demand a CBI enquiry in the matter. State governments order for CID enquiry is nothing but farce since CID will take the same line of shielding the ruling party, Basu told media persons on Sunday.

Actress-turned-politician and BJP leader, Locket Chatterjee said that provocative statements by Trinamool MP and chief minister, Mamata Banerjees nephew, Abhishek Banerjee to ensure a zero- opposition panchayat at Purulia was responsible for the two consecutive murders of BJP workers. In my opinion, Abhishek Banerjee should be arrested for making such provocative statements, she said.

However, Trinamools Purulia district president and state minister for self help group and self employment, Shantiram Mahato claimed that doing politics of murder and violence is not the culture of Trinamool. Chief minister has already ordered a CID enquiry and the deaths will be probed extensively. The post mortem report suggests Dulals death as suicide. It is BJP which is doing dirty politics over deaths, Mahato said.

Earlier on May 30, the body of another BJP worker, Trilochan Mahato, 18, was found hanging from a tree at Balarampur. A note, Punishment for being with BJP, was written on Mahatos T- shirt.

A 12- hour strike called by the BJP in Purulia was total at Balarampur. Response was mixed in other parts of the district.

In the recently concluded three- tier panchayat polls in Bengal, BJP candidates won in several gram panchayat and panchayat samiti seats in Purulia. The killing of two BJP workers is a result of the fear of Trinamool Congress because of our good results in the district in the panchayat polls, said BJP state president, Dilip Ghosh.The post-mortem report of a BJP worker who was found hanging on Saturday in Balarampur of West Bengals Purulia district suggests that he committed suicide, police said on Sunday.

We received postmortem reports, which states death due to asphyxia, hanging ante mortem & suicidal ingestion. We are formal action. Other case (Trilochan Mahato) is heading in right direction too. State government has handed it over to CID, news agency ANI quoted Akash Magharia, the new police chief of Purulia as saying.

Magharia took charge after the government transferred superintendent of police Joy Biswas following the death of two BJP workers - Dulal Kumar and Trilochan Mahato in mysterious circumstances within three days.

The BJP has accused the ruling Trinamool Congress for the murders and sought a CBI probe into it.

Read: How BJP plans to highlight Purulia deaths and push TMC on the back foot

Life on Sunday was partially affected in Purulia district due to a 12-hour strike called by the BJP to protest the alleged murders.

Dulal Kumar, who went missing on Friday, was found hanging from a pole in Balarampur. Kumars brother said that unidentified men allegedly threatened to kill the victim on May 30 due to his political affiliation.

Kumar was threatened on May 30 by bike-borne men. They asked him what party he works for, when he said BJP, they threatened to kill him, he said.

The Trinamool Congress denies that its workers were behind the deaths of the two BJP workers. The TMC said Trilochan Mahatos death was fallout of infighting between the BJP and the Bajrang Dal.Alleging manipulation by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Madhya Pradesh government in the revision of electoral rolls in the state, the Congress petitioned the Election Commission (EC) on Sunday and said that nearly 12% or six million of the states approximately 50 million voters are fake and fraudulent.

A Congress delegation led by its Madhya Pradesh unit president Kamal Nath and campaign committee chief Jyotiraditya Scindia met EC officials on Sunday morning and submitted a petition giving details of the allegedly bogus and fraudulent voters based on its surveys in 101 constituencies, Nath said after the meeting. The petition was accompanied by a presentation listing out examples of fake voters. He said the number of voters in the state has gone up by 40% in the last five years while the states population had increased by 24% .

The Congress pointed to a large number of instances of individuals with multiple voter registrations in the rolls published by the EC on January 1. In one case, Scindia pointed out that a woman resident of Betul was registered under 26 different names with the same picture at the same polling booth. It is shocking. The present Madhya Pradesh government is behind this, he said.

An EC official said on condition of anonymity that two teams are being deputed to probe the allegations of errors in electoral rolls. The teams have been asked to submit reports by June 7. While one team will carry out the probe in Bhopal, another will do so in Narmadapuram. HT has seen a copy of the EC order.

A slide from the Congress presentation to the EC showing a voter with multiple names. (HT Photo)

Scindia said that the Congresss state unit had studied 101 constituencies and found nearly 2.5 million voters with multiple votes in the same polling booth. Nearly 12% voters are fake and the gap between the Congress and the BJP (vote shares, in the last election) was 9% , he said.

The Congress has demanded that state officials found responsible for registering fake voters should be prosecuted under the law and a fresh electoral roll should be prepared. The entire team of MPs top Congress leaders  including Nath, Scindia, former chief minister Digvijaya Singh, state in-charge Dipak Babaria, Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha, and Suresh Pachouri  were part of a delegation that went to EC to submit their findings. There should be action against officials under Section 32 (of The Representation of the People Act), Scindia, the Guna MP demanded. The act stipulates up to two years in prison for officials found in breach of official duty in electoral roll preparation.

The EC had earlier said that the states electoral rolls would be ready by July. The Congress has sought an extension of the deadline to fix the problem and also that officials found guilty of registering bogus voters be kept away from electoral duties in the future. The EC takes the help of state governments and appoints its officials as Electoral Registration Officers for preparation and revision of electoral rolls.

Reacting to the Congresss allegations, Vijay Shah, school education minister of the Madhya Pradesh government, said, The Congress charges are fabricated and baseless. This is happening for the first time that voter verification work is being done so strictly in Madhya Pradesh. The BLOs (booth level officers) are knocking every door to check if the names in the voters lists are genuine.Smarting from the recent Chengannur bypoll humiliation, the young brigade of the Kerala Congress has taken on the seniors and doesnt want Rajya Sabha deputy chairman PJ Kurien to be re-nominated to the House.

Three of Keralas Rajya Sabha seats fall vacant this month and assembly numbers favour the CPI(M)-led ruling Left Democratic Front to get two members in and the Congress-led United Democratic Front one.

I hope PJ Kurien who is completing three terms in Rajya Sabha will use this opportunity wisely to withdraw from parliamentary politics, MLA VT Balram said in a Facebook post on Saturday.

The 77-year-old Kurien, who retires this month, is leading the race though the Congress doesnt have the numbers to retain the deputy chairmans position it has held for many years.

Like Balram, four other young MLAs spoke against Kuriens re-nomination on Sunday, saying he has been in Parliament since 1980s and it was time he made way for young blood.

Hibi Eden, Roji M John, Anil Akkara and Shafi Parambhil also took to the social media to vent their ire, with several seniors supporting them.

The party should not see the Upper House as an old age home, said Eden. People like Kurien should remember the recent statement of Congress president Rahul Gandhi that party platforms should be opened up for youngsters, John said.

An embarrassed Kurien told a news channel in New Delhi that he was ready to move out if the party wanted.

Former state chiefs VM Sudheeran and K Muralidharan had blamed factionalism for the defeat after the bypoll result was declared on May 31. The Congress lost Chengannur, once a party stronghold, to the ruling Left by 20,956 votes.

The Kerala Congress is riddled with factionalism, with party leaders encouraging groupism to keep their positions.

Not just Kurien, knives are also out for acting state Congress chief MM Hassan and UDF convener PP Thankachhan.

Senior leaders have been summoned to Delhi and were expected to meet Gandhi after he returns from his overseas visit, sources in the party unit said.

Gandhi is travelling with his mother, Sonia Gandhi, who has gone abroad for a medical check.

Gandhi is expected to pick a new Kerala chief by next week and the frontrunners include senior legislator VD Satheesan, former Kannur MP K Sudhakaran and ex-minister Mullapally Ramachandran.The BJP in West Bengal is planning to push the Trinamool Congress on the back foot by bringing in central leaders to target the ruling party over the recent deaths of its two workers.

Although police have ruled out political connections to the deaths and termed Trilochan Mahatos as personal enmity and Dulal Kumars as suicide, BJP leaders have blamed the Trinamool for murdering the two workers.

State leaders have urged party bosses to send a central team to Purulia, where the two bodies were found hanging and where BJP has emerged successful in the recent panchayat polls.

A central BJP team should visit the district and then hold press conferences in Kolkata and Delhi,said a BJP Bengal leader who did not wish to be named.

It would help us in achieving three objectives. One, it would send a message to the ruling party that our national leaders are keeping a watch. Two, it would spread the word across the country that Trinamool Congress supporters are unleashing terrible violence in the state, and three, it would help boost the morale of our workers in the district and the state, the leader said.

The states leaders spoke to national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and joint general secretary (organisation) Shiv Prakash to send such a team to Purulia.

BJP Bengal unit president Dilip Ghosh said, It was clear that professional killers were hired to murder the two workers of our party. (Mamata Banerjees nephew) Abhishek Banerjee said he will get rid of the opposition, but we could not imagine they would be finish off opposition workers with bombs and guns.

BJP president Amit Shah was one of the first to condemn the deaths.

Distressed to know about yet another killing of BJP karyakarta Dulal Kumar in Balrampur, West Bengal. This continued brutality and violence in the land of West Bengal is shameful and inhuman. Mamata Banerjees govt has completely failed to maintain law and order in the state, Shah tweeted.

MoS, heavy industries, and MP from Bengals Asansol, Babul Supriyo targeted other opposition leaders for their silence over the deaths and sought Presidents rule in the state.

Two persons were killed in three days. But there is no reaction from Akhilesh Yadav, or Sitaram Yechury or Rahul Gandhi. Whom else to blame for the violence in Bengal other than the ruling party, the chief minister and those around her? There is only one remedy which is Presidents rule in Bengal.

You will soon see strong steps, Supriyo said.

Vijayvargiya has alleged that the local police were trying to pass off the death of Dulal Kumar as suicide.

It is a conspiracy by the Trinamool leaders and the police. His post mortem should be done by a team of five doctors and the proceedings should be videographed, he said in a tweet.

On a trip to Kolkata, Javadekar too lashed out. Political murders are taking place in Bengal day in and day out, he said.

Bengal BJP leaders have been asked to keep the leaders in Delhi posted on every development. Some state leaders also plan to visit the families of the two victims.

On the other hand, Trinamool Congress secretary general Partha Chatterjee said the role of those who are trying to create unrest in the area by bringing in Maoists and saffron elements from Jharkhand should also be investigated.

In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections next year, Bengal has become a high-stake state for the BJP as it aims to win at least 22 of the 44 seats in the state.

Purulia, where the BJP has picked up 645 gram panchayat seats against Trinamools 839, has emerged as a theatre of confrontation between the two camps.

With chief minister Mamata Banerjee busy in trying to form a front of regional parties to take on the BJP, Trinamool Congress is unwilling to cede any political space to the saffron party that has already emerged as the main challenger at the expense of the Left and Congress.The state forest department officials rescued a rare fishing cat from a hilly area in Jharkhands Sahibganj district, over 400 km from the state capital, after it was trapped and injured by villagers on Saturday evening, officials said.

The sub-adult animal is being given special care under experts observation for its revival, officials said.

The fishing cat, sighted after four decades in Jharkhand, is listed as Endangered on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List, which means that it faces a major extinction threat in the wild. The animal, whose scientific name is Prionailurus viverrinus, is also placed in Schedule 1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

The cat was rescued from Pahar Pur area, around 40 km from Sahibganj town. The animal had received injuries as it was trapped in a net by villagers, said Sahibganj divisional forest officer (DFO), Manish Tiwary. He said veterinary doctors have been called for its treatment.

State chief wildlife warden LR Singh said, Villagers had trapped the cat after their domesticated animals, mainly calves and goat kids, started disappearing. The villagers hit the animal with sticks, as the cat, they are claiming, was preying on the domesticated animals. He said appropriate action would be taken against the villagers following proper investigation.

Wildlife experts said wetlands are the preferred abode for fishing cats as they are adept swimmers and prey on fish. Apart from fish, it also preys on frogs, snakes, birds and scavenges on carcasses of larger animals, the experts said.

Fishing cats are mainly found in the foothills of the Himalayas along the Ganga and Brahmaputra river valleys, mangrove forests of the Sundarbans and in the Western Ghats.

Fishing cat was reported for the first time after several decades in Jharkhand. It is said that the animal was also spotted in East Singhbhum district around four decades ago. We are examining the records, the chief wildlife warden said.

Singh said the several wetlands, including Udhwa lake and the Ganga stretch, could be attracting the fishing cat in the Sahibganj area. But, we do not have any record as they are not forest protected areas. Thus, no animal census is carried out in the region, he added.

He further said Jharkhands protected forest area was merely 9% against the national average of 22%.Uncertainty over the elevation of Uttarakhand High Court Chief Justice KM Joseph to the Supreme Court continues with the collegium headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra failing to meet to discuss the issue despite a resolution on May 16 to convene a meeting at the earliest.

The high-powered panel of first five judges, which approves candidates for judgeship to the top court, last met on May 16, two days before the court was to shut down for the 43 day-long summer recess. The resolution uploaded on the top court website stated the meeting stands deferred to be held at the earliest.

More than a fortnight later, the CJI has not convened any meeting. Officials familiar with the process also said that there is no likelihood of a meeting in the coming week either because at least three of the five judges will be out of the capital during that period. The judges are expected to be in Delhi in the second week of June.

And if the collegium fails to meet before Jun 22, when Justice J Chelameswar demits office, then the recommendation for Justice Joseph could be further delayed because the panel will have to be reconstituted. Justice AK Sikri, now the sixth senior-most judge, will replace Justice Chelameswar in the new panel. Though Justice Sikris induction into the collegium would be automatic, people familiar with the developments said the process of sending the names would have to commence afresh.

At the last collegium meet, a decision was taken to reiterate Justice Josephs name, but a view was also taken to send his file along with the names of judges of those High Courts that have not representation in the SC. The collegium had recommended Justice Josephs elevation on January 10 this year along with Justice Indu Malhotra (then a senior advocate).

On April 26, the Centre had cleared Justice Malhotras appointment and returned Justice Josephs file, asking the collegium to consider adequate representation for, SC, STs, minorities regional representation in the top court. As per the procedure the government is bound to accept the collegiums proposal if it is reiterated. However, there is no time limit prescribed for it to formalize an appointment. Justice Joseph had in 2016 quashed the Centre rule in Uttarakhand. An earlier recommendation of the top court collegiums to appoint him as the chief justice of Andhra Pradesh High Court continues to be pending with the government.

The Supreme Court collegium had for the first time met on May 11 to deliberate on Justice Josephs appointment after the government asked it to reconsider its proposal. The members had then unanimously reiterated his elevation. Justice Josephs file was returned by the government, which argued that 41 other high court judges, including 11 chief justices, who were senior to him had been overlooked. Also, Justice Josephs parent HC, Kerala High Court, was over-represented in the top court compared with other HCs.Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday said mainstream parties had laid the groundwork for the Centres decision to halt security operations in the state during Ramzan and urged separatists to come forward for talks in order to end the bloodshed in J&K.

Addressing a rally in Srinagar, Mehbooba said that those who are out of the mainstream have been given a chance to stop the bloodshed in strike-hit state.

An army man, a cop or a CRPF jawan cant find solution to this issue. It needs a political solution. If there has been an invitation of talks from the Centre, I request all to save Jammu and Kashmir and come forward. We cant force you or dictate you. We can only request you, she said.

Early in May, the Centre had halted security operations in the state during the Islamic holy month of Ramzan after an appeal made by the CM following an all-party meeting in Srinagar.

The suspension of operations was followed by a call from home minister Rajnath Singh for a dialogue with separatist leaders.

We, mainstream parties, created an atmosphere for you ( in the form of) unilateral ceasefire, now it is up to separatists. I request them, it is an opportunity. They have been saying repeatedly military solution is no solution; dialogue is the only way forward. Today you are being given an offer to talk, the chief minister said.

Separatist leaders Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik, have said they were ready for the dialogue provided there was clarity on what would be the agenda for the talks.

Mehboobas rally comes against the backdrop of 21-year-old Kaiser Amins death after he was hit by a CRPF vehicle during a stone-pelting incident in Nowhatta region.

Alluding to the incident, Mehbooba said: Yesterday when some youth were throwing stones (at a CRPF vehicle), a child came under the vehicle. He was an orphan but why did he pelt stones? Why cant we give these children an honourable way to come out of this turmoil?The tourism ministrys ambitious plan to substantially increase the inflow of Chinese tourists into India from the current number of around 120,000 has run into a strange barrier: India has only 37 authorised guides conversant in Mandarin.

Acknowledging the challenge, KJ Alphons, minister of state for tourism, who recently visited China to woo tourists, said, I dont have enough number of people who speak Mandarin and we need to address the problem.

The Indian Tour Operators Association, Tourist Guide Federation of India, and senior ministry officials agree that Indias supply of Mandarin guides falls short of the required strength.

Over the years, Chinese tourists have become an economic force all around the world. In 2017, 100 million Chinese made overseas trips as tourists according to the website of the countrys ministry of tourism. India receives a fraction of this.

Indeed, including business travellers, India receives only 250,000 Chinese visitors on an average a year, around 2.7% of the total visitors it receives.

Most Chinese tourists do not speak English. Operators who exclusively deal with Chinese tourists say the crisis of Mandarin guides is most evident during the Chinese New Year, which falls in first quarter of the year.

Arun Anand, a veteran tour operator with offices in China and India, says operators have no option but to hire unauthorised guides. Tour operators say besides 37 licensed guides, there are around 300 guides conversant in Mandarin. The latter dont fulfil the tourism ministrys criteria to obtain a licence.

Most unauthorised guides are not graduates, so they cant sit for the written test conducted by the ministry. They only take short duration crash courses to speak Chinese, says Chander Mohan Luthra, an authorised guide who has been working for the past 10 years.

However, some unauthorised guides are good enough to fill the vacuum during peak season.

They are as good as the licensed ones but either they dont have the required qualification or sometimes are not interested in getting their license renewed, says Anand whose firm has been active since 1991.

Alphons admitted that learning Mandarin is difficult and has suggested that Indian tour operators should look to hire people proficient in the language from other countries and train them.

China takes India as a important and potential tourism market. China and India are neighbouring countries, and both are big countries. There is great potential in tourism exchange and cooperation between us, the spokesperson for China National Tourist Office in New Delhi said.

I think its a big problem for the lack of mandarin guides in India, language is an obstacle for many Chinese tourists especially for the senior. The Chinese tourists in India also feel that Indian government should take measures in this, the official added.An application filed by a father 14 years ago to register the birth of his three children is the centrepiece of the Jammu and Kashmir Polices plea that the juvenile accused in the rape and murder of an eight-year-old in Kathua be tried as an adult and not a minor.

The Crime Branch of the state police, which has contested the trial courts decision to treat the juvenile as a minor has annexed the application in its petition before the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, officials said.

The application is riddled with careless mistakes and raised doubts about its veracity, they said.

The report of a medical board of experts, which determines the age of the juvenile, one of the eight accused in the case, as not less than 19 and not more than 23, has also been attached.

The court will hear the matter on June 6.

According to the petition, the application filed by the father in the tehsildars office in Hiranagar in Jammu province on April 15, 2004 makes for interesting reading and has imaginary entries.

The father has asked for a birth certificate for his eldest, a boy, whose date of birth is stated as November 23, 1997, his daughter, said to be born on February 21, 1998, and the youngest, the Kathua accused, on October 23, 2002, it says.

A perusal of the date of birth of the two elder children reveals a difference of two months and 28 days, which by any medical standard is impossible, it states.

This, it says, indicates a casual approach adopted by the father in furnishing the particulars of the dates of birth.

While no place of birth has been mentioned for the older two, the juvenile is said to be born in a Hiranagar hospital. But a subsequent investigation to test out the veracity of that statement did not bear that out, officials said.

A special investigation team sent a questionnaire to the block medical officer of Hiranagar and asked for records of the juveniles birth along with the particulars of the parents.

However, the block medical officer categorically stated after verifying the records in the hospital that no delivery in the name of the juveniles mother had taken place on October 23, 2002, the affidavit says.

All the documents have been attached with the petition.

...in fact these entries were imaginary, and without any supporting birth record of either Municipal Committee or Primary Health Centre where the birth of the respondent (juvenile) is stated to have taken place, reads the affidavit submitted by the police.

The affidavit also has findings of the medical board which was constituted after the Crime Branch found inconsistencies in the age of the juvenile, who remains unnamed because of his minor status and whose case is being heard by the Juvenile Board in Kathua.

The other seven accused are being tried in a court in Pathankot, Punjab, following a Supreme Court order shifting the hearing.

According to the charge sheet in the case filed by the Crime Branch, the juvenile was instrumental in the abduction, gang rape and killing of the child, who was smothered to death in captivity, in January this year.

The medical board, comprising specialists from different departments, including a physiologist, dental examiner, radiologist and forensic experts, submitted a report based on various clinical tests and the physical appearance of the juvenile that he was not less than 19 and not more than 23.

The affidavit says the case had attracted the attention of public at large at national and international level in view of the age of the victim.

A casual and cavalier approach in determining the age of juvenile involved in such a case would not meet the ends of justice.

....the placement of reliance by the court below only on the shaky municipal birth record was unwarranted in law and approach adopted was not commendable. The impugned order has caused serious miscarriage of justice, it says, while asking that the trial court order treating him as a juvenile be set aside.

Not doing so would be a travesty of justice, it says, where it is established from initial to the subsequent investigations that the respondent has played a leading role in the kidnapping, gang rape and murder of the victim.Lok Janshakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan on Sunday met BJP president Amit Shah, seeking an ordinance to restore the original provisions of a law on atrocities against Dalits and called for ensuring reservation in promotion for the community.

Paswan, a Union minister and a key BJP ally, told PTI that he also raised the issue of special category status for Bihar, a long-standing demand of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, saying that being one of the poorest states it deserved the position.

Bihar is one of the poorest states. So many states are demanding it. Bihar deserves it, Paswan said.

The Dalit leader was joined by his son and MP Chirag Paswan where they discussed a host of issues, especially related to Bihar, a state which is important to the BJP-led NDAs overall performance for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

In the meeting, Paswan stressed on the need to bring an ordinance to restore the original stringent provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The Supreme Court, in a recent order, had introduced new guidelines which, almost every political party has claimed, dilutes the law and will lead to a rise in crimes against Dalits. The government has moved the apex court for a review.

Paswan said he told Shah that the government should bring an ordinance to undo the courts order and restore the Acts original provisions.

He also said that the government should move the apex court to remove provisions which have come in the way of giving reservation to SCs and STs in promotion in government jobs.

If required the government should bring an ordinance on this, he said.

Paswan said Shah agreed with his stand on Dalit issues and assured him of positive response.After a three-day communal conflagration threw life out of gear, the Meghalaya capital limped to normalcy on Sunday with the district administration relaxing curfew for seven hours while a Sikh delegation from Delhi took stock of the situation in the town.

Shillong Municipal Board employees were pressed into service to clean up the debris in the riot zone since morning following which vegetable and fruit vendors set up their temporary stalls to sell their produce after the administration relaxed curfew from 8am to 3pm to allow people to stock up on essentials.

Grocery stores too opened to enable people to purchase essential commodities. Motphran locality, where the clashes started, bustled with urgency as people rushed to buy whatever they could for the kitchen and home.

Fruits and vegetable vendors setting up their temproary stalls at Motphran on Sunday mornng after curfew was relaxed for 7 hours. (HT Photo)

Efforts were also underway to quell rumours and social media outbursts about Sikhs in Shillong being under threat. A Sikh delegation from Delhi reached the town to take stock of the situation and implored people across the country to not fall prey to such reports.

Manjinder Singh Sirsa, general secretary of Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and national general secretary of Shiromani Akali Dal and others from the team visited the troubled area and interacted with several families residing in the Them Metor locality.

There are vested interests from outside the country who are trying to create this problem. There is a little trouble no doubt but the Sikhs here are safe and secure and the state government is doing everything to ensure that, Sirsa told HT.

Union minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju also tweeted: Beware of rumour mongers and trouble makers. There was no damage to any Gurudwara or other institutions belonging to the Sikh minority in Meghalaya.

Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma said, The problem is very much in a particular locality, on a particular issue. It just happened that two particular communities were involved, but its not a communal thing.

Trouble began on May 31 morning in Motphran, a commercial centre close to Them Metor where the Sikhs live after a driver parked a public bus near a water tap and went for tea, leaving behind his two sons and a nephew in the vehicle.

Shillong Municipal Board employees cleaning up the debris at Motphran on Sunday mornng after curfew was relaxed for 7 hours. (HT Photo)

A group wanting the bus to be moved accosted the boys and assaulted them when they couldnt shift the vehicle following an altercation. One boy was injured and had to be taken to hospital. Later in the evening, a group of bus drivers converged at Motphran for a retaliatory attack which soon snowballed into arson.

Police stepped in to control the situation but matters only became further aggravated, prompting the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Peter S Dkhar to promulgate curfew in 14 localities.

This further infuriated the public and the mob began to swell, leading to stone pelting and attacks by catapults on security personnel who used tear gas and flash bangs to contain the aggressive mob.

Initially six companies of the 67th Battalion CRPF assisted Meghalaya Police in trying to maintain order before another six companies were dispatched by the Union home ministry.

They reached Shillong on Saturday. The Army too conducted a Flag March on Friday night to try and restore normalcy in the troubled areas.

The Them Metor area is home to many Sikh families who have been engaged in manual scavenging since the British period. A sizeable number are employees of the Shillong Municipal Board.

Over the years the population has increased, leading to frequent differences of opinion with the local populace, who feel that they are encroaching the land. Though the area falls under the Shillong Cantonment Board, land rights are vested with the Mylliem Syiemship (traditional chieftain).

Other than lease documents issued to the community for a gurdwara and a school, the rest have no legal right to inhabit the area. Successive governments have tried in vain to relocate them to other parts of the city.Shillong remained tense but under control after the Army conducted flag marches in its disturbed areas and rescued around 500 people on Saturday following night-long violence and arson, officials said. A senior government told IANS that curfew will be lifted for seven hours on Sunday in parts of Shillong, but restrictions will remain in force.

Curfew would be lifted from 8am to 3pm tomorrow (Sunday) in curfew areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House areas to allow people to get their essential commodities, Deputy Commissioner in-charge East Khasi Hills district, Peter S Dkhar, told IANS.

Dkhar said that suspension of internet on mobile services would continue on Sunday besides prohibiting the sale of petrol, diesel etc., in loose jerricans, bottles and any other containers to public by all petrol pumps within the district.

The magistrate also appealed to the people not to trust false reports propagated in social media like attacks on gurdwara in the city.

The situation is still tense but under control. The Army is on standby and will be deployed if the situation warrants. The district administration and the state police are making all efforts to restore peace and normalcy, he said.

Clashes in the city had begun after a bus handyman was allegedly assaulted by a group of residents of Them Metor area on Thursday afternoon. In the night-long violence that followed, a mob torched a shop, a house and damaged at least five vehicles, besides injuring a senior police officer, officials said.

Read: Dalit Sikhs on the edge as Khasi tribal anger rises in Shillong

While tension prevailed on Saturday, the continued suspension of Internet services helped to prevent spread of rumours. Security presence was enhanced with the doubling of central police organisation companies in the city from six to 12.

A meeting was convened by chief minister Conrad K Sangma on Saturday with the MLA of the area concerned, Adelbert Nongrum, locality headmen, senior citizens, local women and youth organisations.

On the demand to relocate the inhabitants of Sweeper Lane, where Thursdays clashes occurred, the state government directed the urban affairs and revenue departments to submit their reports on the matter. After going through the reports, the government will take necessary steps, the chief minister said.

At least 10 persons, including policemen, have been injured in the violence, which has triggered demands that the government take action against alleged illegal settlers in the area.

State police personnel were attacked by stone pelters in the Motphran area of the city. Teargas shells were used to disperse rioters but people in other parts of the city mistook them for police firing, the officer said.

Trouble escalated when rumours spread on social media that the handyman had succumbed to injuries, prompting a group of bus drivers to converge at Them Metor. The police had to fire teargas shells to disperse them, officials said.

One person directly involved in the assault that set off the violence in the city has already been arrested and is in police custody.

The delegation of headmen assured the government that they will bring word of the successful meeting to those agitating and encourage them to call off the standoff as their demands had, in the main, been met.

General Officer Commanding 101 Area Lt Gen DS Ahuja visited the affected people at the Army cantonment.

Superintendent of Police (City) Stephan Rynjah sustained injuries last night after he was hit by a rod. He has been admitted to the Shillong Civil Hospital, a senior police officer said.

The East Khasi Hills district authorities had imposed night curfew in the entire city from 10 pm till 5 am to maintain peace and prevent arson, officials said.

Four persons, accused of being involved in the assault of three local boys, have been arrested, they said. As many as 11 persons have been picked up in connection with the case so far.

(With agency inputs)In a major mid air scare, an Indian Air Force plane carrying External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, went incommunicado for 14 minutes while approaching Mauritius Saturday evening prompting her hosts to press the panic button.

According to sources in the Air Traffic Control (ATC) the pilot and Mauritius ATC could not contact each other and the Mauritian air traffic control declared an alert.

Swaraj was flying from Trivandrum to Mauritius and had passed Male airspace before the plane went missing from radars. ATC sources said that over oceanic airspace, the communication is a problem and as per global standard, ATC should wait for 30 minutes before sounding a missing alert.

Indian Air Force Flight IFC31 carrying Sushma Swaraj, Minister of External Affairs departed from Trivandrum at 1408 IST for Mauritius. Aircraft changed over from Indian airspace to Male ATC which then established contact with the aircraft at 1644 IST. However, IFC 31 could not contact Mauritius ATC after entering Mauritius airspace. Mauritius ATC then activated INCERFA (the uncertainty phase), said a spokesperson for the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

Later at 1658 IST, IFC 31 came in contact with Mauritius ATC and landed. Mauritius ATC activated INCERFA (uncertainty phase) without allowing the stipulated time period of 30 minutes to lapse from the time when aircraft last contacted ATC. This was perhaps done because the flight was carrying VIP, the spokesperson added.

Swaraj had a stopover in Mauritius en route to South Africa to attend the foreign ministers meeting of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa).

During the transit halt in the Indian Ocean island, she met Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth and her counterpart Seetanah Lutchmeenaraidoo.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said enhancing the ties between India and Mauritius was the focus of the meeting. Connecting with our maritime neighbour! EAM @SushmaSwaraj called on the Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Kumar Jugnauth. Enhancing our bilateral relationship was the focus of the meeting, he said in a tweet.Stephen Maar delivered an intense performance as Canada gave their finals push a major boost with a hard-fought victory (25-22, 25-18, 24-26, 25-23) over Argentina in the Volleyball Nations League.Maar blasted 16 points on offense and contributed further with two key blocks, but his role as the main source of his teams spirit and fire was even more significant.Midway through the third set the towering wing spiker was involved in an angry exchange with Argentina star Facundo Conte, after Maar glared through the net at his rival following a thundering winner. Conte reacted angrily and Cameron Bann got between them to help things eventually calm down.The San Juan crowd naturally sided with the hometown player, but Maar was happy to play the villain as long as the final outcome was the one he wanted - namely Canadas second straight win of the round.He was assisted by Jason Derocco, whose offense pulled in 13 points as Canada continued its impressive form to climb to seventh in the VNL table.Conte, with 23 total points, was the best performer for Argentina, who were unable to collect their long awaited first win of the campaign. Agustin Loser was an all-round threat and scored 15 but the home side could not find the consistency needed to get over the line.It was entertaining stuff throughout, with plenty of desire on both sides. The opening set was punctuated with a number of extraordinary rallies, highlighted by one that saw Bann dive headlong from outside the end line before Bruno Lima tipped a neat winner.Some fine serving from Loser closed Canadas lead to 22-20 but then Marr stepped up, teeing up set point with a sensational block then finishing the frame with a powerful spike.Argentina got ragged in the second, throwing away an early 6-2 lead with a spate of attacking errors, and Canadas smooth control was paying dividends. Ryan Sclaters defense and serving was a factor as Canada pulled clear, and it was Schlaters booming spike that put his team 2-0 up.The third set had everything, with the most unforgettable moment being the spicy confrontation between Maar and Conte. It happened at 10-10, and while the conflict was swiftly resolved it was not forgotten, as evidenced by Maar drilling a spike directly at Conte two points later.By then Canada looked headed for a straight sets win, especially after Cristian Poglajen blasted one long to put his team 23-20 behind. But then it was Contes turn to show off his ability, closing the deficit with two precise strikes before a team blocking effort pushed Argentina ahead - with Loser closing the set to complete the comeback.The fourth could have been a similar story. From 23-19 behind, Loser and Conte spearheaded another revival to 23-23, with Maximiliano Savannas accurate serving also making a big contribution. However, after a timely sideout, Canada converted their first match point as a return error undid Argentinas good work, and condemned the team to a fifth straight loss.Argentinas final chance to get something out of their home stretch comes against Italy on Sunday, while Canada will seek to continue their victorious run against Iran.Government school teachers in Tamil Nadu on Sunday urged the administration to roll back a decision to introduce biometric attendance for them that the states school education minister K A Sengottaiyan announced earlier in the day.

Sengottaiyan said all government schools in the state will get the biometric attendance system this year at a cost of Rs. nine crores. He also said that school children will get smart identity cards linked their Aadhar number.

In order to take the school education department to next level, the Government will soon implement the biometric attendance system for the school teachers. Likewise, the smart ID cards which are to be provided for the students would help parents keep track of their children. In case, students play truant, SMS will be sent to the parents, Sengottaiyan said.

The Government has not revealed the date when the biometric attendance system will come into effect as the tender process is yet to be completed. But the government is keen to implement the new attendance system in this academic year.

According to the officials with the school education department, about 57,583 schools in the State will get the biometric attendance devices. About 3.90 Lakh teachers working in the Primary, Middle, High School and Higher Secondary schools will have to use this biometric attendance system for the first time in the State an official said.

But the teachers are simply not happy about the biometric attendance system.

N Rengarajan, Deputy General Secretary, Tamil Nadu Elementary School Teacher Federation, questioned the necessity of setting biometric attendance system when other government departments are doing without it.

While many Government offices do not having any such arrangement, why is the school education department rushing to implement it in the Government Schools? The Government should take back the decision Rengarajan said.The body of a three-year-old girl was recovered on Sunday from a field in Paar village of Bihars Samastipur district, a police officer said.

Prima facie, it seems the girl was raped and killed last evening, Deputy Superintendent of Police Kundan Kumar said.

The toddlers family members had approached the police on Saturday after her mother claimed that a man, known to them, had taken the child away from her by force when she was tending to goats in the fields, Kumar said.

A police team that immediately launched a search operation, on the basis of the complaint, found her body in the field, next to a pond, this morning, he clarified.

We have launched a hunt to nab the accused, who is on the run. We will try and solve the case as early as possible, the officer said, adding that the girls body has been sent for post-mortem to Samastipur Sadar Hospital.The Border Security Force and Pakistan Rangers exchanged heavy fire in Pargwal sector of Akhnoor on early Sunday morning after two BSF men were killed in Pakistani sniper fire earlier in the night.

The latest skirmish comes barely four days after the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan called up his Indian counterpart for restoring ceasefire agreement on May 29.

Heavy Pakistani shelling in Pargwal sector also injured 12 villagers.

At least 10 BSF posts and 35 villages were being targeted by the Pakistani forces.

BSF Jammu frontier inspector general Ram Awtar said, There was a targeted fire on our duty mounds from across the international border which was helped by adjoining posts of Rangers. Two our men were martyred.

He also blamed Pakistan for dishonouring the ceasefire yet again.

Following DGMOs talk we strictly adhered to ceasefire agreement but there is difference in words and deeds of Pakistan, he said.

The IG said that the BSF has retaliated strongly to the latest round of unprovoked shelling.

Pargwal police post in-charge Brij Lal Sharma said, Around 2.15 am on Sunday, two BSF men were killed in sniper fire by Pakistan across the international border in Pargwal sector of Akhnoor sub division in Jammu.

Another police officer said that Pargwal market is being targeted by the Pak Rangers.

Explosions of mortar shells could be heard in Jammu city.

An Intelligence official said that 2:15 am Pakistan Rangers of 21 Chenab Rangers opened sniper fire at BSFs on Jaman Bela post of 33 Battalion in Pargwal sector.

As a result BSF constable V K Pandey and ASI S N Yadav died on the spot and mortar firing started between both the sides, which is continuing, he added.

Pandey was 27 and Yadav was 48.

At least 12 people including two BSF men were killed in intense Pak shelling for nine straight days from May 15 to May 23 in Jammu, Samba and Kathua districts, which had displaced over a lakh people from the border areas, prompting the state government to set up relief camps away from firing range of the enemy.

With the annual pilgrimage to the cave shrine of Amarnath is scheduled to begin on June 28, the security apparatus in Jammu and Kashmir is on alert after intelligence inputs that a large number of terrorists including suicide bombers of the Lashkar-e-Taiba have been kept in various launch pads across the Line of Control to be pushed into the state.

Union home minister Rajnath Singh is visiting the state on June 7 and 8 to review the security scenario.Tiger reserves in Rajasthan have added 49 cubs to its thriving big cat population in last seven years. Thanks to increased monitoring, healthy prey base, and a curb on illegal activities, the state is now home to 85 tigers  including 70 in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve (RTR), 14 in Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR), and a recently translocated male at Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve (MHTR).

The growth chart is led by Ranthambore where 40 cubs have been born to 18 tigresses in six years beginning 2013. Sariska, which lost all its big cats in 2005 and where eight tigers were translocated from Ranthambore in 2008, added nine cubs, including two that were born to ST-14 last month, to the count. ST-10 and ST-2 were the first to give birth to two cubs each in 2012.

Incidentally, of the eight big cats translocated to Sariska, one was poisoned in 2010. It was among 12 tigers that died in Rajasthan in last seven years.

Forest officials are ecstatic at the steady growth in tiger numbers but warn of perils too.

It is a good thing that the tiger numbers have gone up in Rajasthan, but it also worries us. We need to work on developing corridors (between the reserves) so that the big cat population is dispersed properly. We do not want human-animal conflict and translocation of big cats, GV Reddy, chief wildlife warden, said.

He said the department is making efforts to protect and increase the inviolate areas. Forests in Rajasthan have capacity to hold 150-200 tigers.

Ranthambore field director YK Sahu attributed the growth to the improved protection of the tiger habitat and rehabilitation of villagers living in forest area, curbing illegal activities such as poaching and increasing prey base for the big cats. The core area of Ranthambore is good for breeding, he said.

STR field director Govind Sagar Bharadwaj said with the increase in the number of tigers, the pressure of human interference too has increased. Efforts are being made to create some inviolate areas for the big cats, he said.

Rajasthans chief wildlife warden GV Reddy had earlier described the rise in tiger numbers as an achievement and a morale booster, considering the high mortality rate in big cats due to natural and anthropogenic causes. The state witnessed some suspicious deaths of tigers too.

Apart from one that died of poisoning in 2010 in Sariska, another, four-year-old male ST-11 was found dead after getting stuck in the barbed wire fence on a farmland on March 19 this year. Adding to the mystery is the case of a tigress that has been missing from Sariska since February this year. The 12-year-old ST-5, which was last sighted on February 21 with male tiger ST-11 in the Umri area of the reserve, is now presumed dead.

At Ranthambore, a total of nine deaths have been recorded since 2013, including that of the two cubs of T-79 in April 2018. Prior to that, in March, 13-year-old tiger T-28, aka star died. T-28 was suffering from gastric torsion in cardia.

Reddy, who is also a member of Standing Committee of the State Board for Wildlife (SBWL), said that in a meeting of the body in April, several recommendations were made to prevent poaching of tigers in Sariska. The recommendations included fitting tigers with GPS-enable radio collars, round-the-clock monitoring by separate teams and relocation of villages from the reserves periphery.

Officials said the core areas of five popular wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan  Sariska, Ranthambore, Mukundra, Jhalana and Jawaibag  will soon be equipped with hi-tech wildlife surveillance and anti-poaching system, an advanced surveillance mechanism to ensure effective monitoring and conservation of endangered wild animals, especially tigers and leopards. The state aims to install a hi-tech mechanism comprising drones, thermal-imaging cameras, high-resolution optical and dome cameras, data centres and radio sets.A 30-year-old widow, who was found unconscious on May 26 in the Rupwas police station area, was gang-raped by three people, the police said on Sunday.

The woman, who gained consciousness on May 28, was in trauma since then and narrated her ordeal to her family members on Saturday, the police said.

She was taken to the Raj Bahadur Memorial district hospital for medical examination on Monday, said Madan Meena, the station House officer of Rupwas police station.

The widow had gone to visit the Hanuman temple at Rudawal on May 23 and was returning to her house in the Uchchain police station area on May 25 after spending two nights at her aunts house at Rudawal.

She was waiting for a bus near Gehndoli village under Rupwas police station when a man riding a motorcycle offered her lift. The man took her to an agriculture field in a secluded area, where he, along with his two other friends, assaulted her repeatedly.

Family members found her in an unconsciousness state at the agriculture field on May 26 and rushed to the government womens hospital, from where she was shifted to a private hospital. She came out of the unconsciousness after two days.

The victim narrated her ordeal to her family members on Saturday, following which they approached the police to file a complaint in the matter.

On the basis of the victims information, the police have identified Akram Khan of Khanwa under Rupwas police station, Pintu of Mandera village and Raju of Bhatawali village under Kumher police station as suspects in the case.

Meena, the Rupwas SHO, said the police will record the victims statement before a magistrate on Monday and try to arrest the culprits.

The victims cousin said she has been undergoing treatment at the private hospital for eight days. She is in trauma after the incident, he said.

The victim has two daughters and three sons. Her husband died of some ailment five years ago.Vegetable prices soared in Jaipur on Sunday as the farmers agitation entered the third day. Traders said fall in supply at Muhana wholesale mandi in Jaipur led to an increase in prices of vegetables.

Farmers in Rajasthan have been stopping trucks supplying milk and vegetables as part of the 10-day gaon bandh agitation. Farmer leaders have been demanding purchase of the produce at minimum support price (MSP) and implementation of Swaminathan Commission report.

Retail onion prices climbed to Rs 15 per kg from Rs 10 per kg, green chilli prices shot up to Rs 15 per kg from Rs 6 per kg, bitter gourd was being sold at Rs 20 per kg (Rs 12), lady fingers Rs 20 per kg (Rs 15), beans Rs 25 per kg (Rs 15), tomato Rs 15 per kg (Rs 6), and tinda (apple gourd) Rs 30-40 per kg (Rs 20). Milk shortage was also reported from some parts of the city although the situation is not alarming.

Vegetable supply was down by about 10%. We will not allow hoarding, Muhana mandi secretary Ashok Garg said.

There were reports of violence at a sabzi mandi in Bikaner on Sunday morning with miscreants creating ruckus on the mandi premises. Minor incidents of scuffle between farmers and traders were also reported from Bikaner and Sriganganagar.

Cooperative dairies were reluctant to procure milk because of the ongoing protest. Jaipur Dairy chairman Om Prakash Punia has written to chief secretary DB Gupta, requesting him to ensure adequate security for milk tankers.

On Saturday, farmers spilled milk on roads in Jaipur rural areas. Kisan Mahapanchayat leader Rampal Jat said, The idea was to draw the attention of the policy makers to our problems. Farmer associations will hold a massive rally to mark Balram Diwas in Tonk near Jaipur on June 13.

District collector Siddharth Mahajan said, The administration has been monitoring the situation closely and is in talks with the cooperative federations to ensure that the supply is not disrupted.Around 42 of the 642 undertrials in Maharashtra who were granted bail, but were behind bars for years, have been released in the past year thanks to the efforts of NGOs and the need to reduce overcrowding in prisons.

Nearly 600 undertrials are still languishing behind bars despite being granted bail. Reason? According to a study by a five-member jail reform committee set up by the government in February 2017, the inmates have not been released since they do not have a bail bond or a guarantor vouching for them.

Director general of police (Prisons), Bipin Bihari said that authorities are working to address overcrowding in jails. Overcrowding is the most important issue before us. A process has begun to release undertrials who have got bail, said Bihari.

In 2017, the data collected stated that out of 5,780 undertrials who received a maximum punishment of less than seven years, 642 were granted bail. After the list was submitted to the prisons department, officials asked district commissioners to look for locals willing to stand surety for these inmates.

A team from the National Commission for Women (NCW), led by chairperson Rekha Sharma, which visited the Byculla Womens Jail as part of its annual visit to all jails in India, observed that amenities at the jail and the sensitivity towards women had improved. However, Sharma previously did stress the need for an in-house gynaecologist and paediatrician for inmates and their children, efficient legal aid, a creche facility and a policy for pregnant women.

We met undertrials who were suffering prolonged detention despite being granted bail as they had no financial means to pay for bail bonds or get proper legal aid, said Sharma.

Vijaya Rahatkar, chairperson of the State Commission for Women, agreed to the same saying that she has asked the prisons department to submit a proposal before the commission to start a corpus fund of 1.5 crore to help prisoners lodged in jail because of their inability to pay the bail amount.The iftaar party being organised at Sahyadri guest house on June 4, as part of the month of Ramzan, has got mired in controversy as some activists raised questions over the misuse of the government guest house.

The party is supposed to be organised by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) affiliate Rashtriya Muslim Manch (RMM) at the Sahyadri guest house at Malabar Hill. RMM has claimed that it is a meeting convened by state minorities welfare department and not a special iftaar party.

Right to information (RTI) activist Shakeel Ahmed Shaikh and advocate Adil Khatri, in a letter to chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and the Governor, questioned the misuse of the state guest house. They said that as per the government resolution (GR) issued on July 24, 2015, no public meeting, workshop or gathering should be held there. We demand an inquiry into the role of the protocol department, which looks after the guest house, for permitting RMM to hold the iftaar party, the letter said. Shaikh said the party has been organised to garner support of Muslims. We dont expect the CM to act on the complaint, but hope that Governor takes immediate action.

Meanwhile, the RMM has said it is not an iftaar party, but a meeting of minority communities. It is a meeting convened by the minorities welfare department to discuss welfare schemes for minorities. Representatives of minority communities including Buddhist, Jain, Christians, will participate in the meeting followed by an iftaar, said Irfan Ali of RMM.Near the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) storage terminal area close to Belpada village, a 289-hectare mangroves patch is being destroyed through systematic debris dumping. When HT visited the site, 14 large heaps of debris and mud were spotted just at the edge of the mangrove patch. We have spotted four to five excavator machines every night dumping the debris on the trees, and trucks bringing much more debris from Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane. Closer to the morning, the debris is flattened, and the recently dumped mud is made into piles. With the first light of day, it seems like no work was carried out but every night at least one hectare is eaten up, said Tukaram Koli, a member of the fishing community.

No tidal water, 4,500 trees die

Near the Hovercraft Jetty, fourth container terminal at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), where Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal Private Limited (BMCTPL) is located, a 4.5-hectare mangrove patch has been cut off from tidal water. A total of 4,500 mangrove trees, confirmed by the local forest department, have died at the spot. These trees have died over the past six months.

READ: Dying mangroves keep flamingos and fish away near Mumbai

The forest department conducted a panchnama and confirmed that the trees were killed because there was no tidal flow. However, nobody was made accountable for it. This was an important fishing zone and crab culture site. It is now lost, said Dilip Koli of Paramparik Macchimar Bachao Kruit Samiti, a fishing committee that has raised the issue destruction of mangroves or wetlands in the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal.

Hacked mangrove stems tied up, hidden from public view

At one end of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) storage terminal near Belpada, HT found six different clusters of hacked mangrove stems, which were tied up and kept hidden from public view. These have been destroyed from the creek, and the truck drivers parking their vehicles near the storage terminal use it as fuel wood for cooking. This is a clear violation of Environment Protection Act, 1986 and Bombay high court orders, said Nandkumar Pawar, head, Shree Ekvira Aai Pratishthan, a Navi Mumbai-based environment group.

Road widening destroys mangroves, thousands of birds stay away

Road widening near Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) port area and 4th container terminal has destroyed a 2-kilometre stretch of mangrove trees, and the construction for the port and jetty area has eaten up the mudflats that were home to wetland birds including flamingos. Over the past five years, over 30,000 flamingos and ibis, egrets, grey herons, cormorants, sandpipers, waders, have disappeared from this site. The remaining mangroves have turned brown and black, said Dilip Koli.

Debris dumping, lack of high tide water turns creek black

A creek, which runs all the way from Belpada village, which is one end of Uran taluka to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) port area, has turned black with domestic waste and oil being dumped into it. The fishing community said the area used to be an excellent fishing zone. Since a number of shops came up to cater to the truck drivers moving in this area that dump their garbage, trucks clean their tyres and dump all other forms of waste including open defecation, not a single fish can be found at this spot. The high tide water has also been cut off from this zone, thus the water does not get cleansed and remains black, said Tukaram Koli.

This catch from dirty waters offers him no reward

Deepak Mhatre, 36, a fisherman from Hanuman Koliwada village, travels 20 kilometres from his home every day to search for fish because all the creeks near his home have been reclaimed. He goes to a spot near Dronagiri, where he manages to catch a handful of fish daily. Every month, I manage to earn Rs3,000 if I am lucky nowadays. I have to feed my family, and on most days, rather than going to the market with my fish, we eat it ourselves because no one will buy fish floating in polluted waters. Another 300-odd families are in the same condition in my village. The creeks near my house have run dry, mangroves have been hacked as high tide water has been cut off, he said.Resorting to a cartoon as a medium of expression to take on the corruption of ministers in power, the Congress released a drawing which depicted the chief minister Devendra Fadnavis as a guardian of dirty politicians. The cartoon depicts Fadnavis shielding his ministers by giving them a clean chit.

The opposition party has alleged that despite adequate proof of corruption against many ministers, the BJP-led government, which has been boasting of transparent governance, has taken no action.

A day after the opposition demanded the resignation of cooperation minister Subhas Deshmukh for allegedly participating in land grabbing, the Congress released the cartoon. The party has alleged that by not taking action against the corrupt ministers, the government has proved its hypocrisy and double standards. The CM has been talking about the transparent and people-friendly government, but despite of the proved involvement, he has not taken action against any of his ministers in the last four years. This has established that the government is corrupt, said party general secretary Sachin Sawant.

Sawant said that many ministers faced corruption charges in the last four years and the opposition proved them by giving evidence on various forums, but no action was taken. The CM was discriminative in action as a few (like former revenue minister Eknath Khadse) faced the axe for the corruption charges, but other were shielded conveniently. It is a mockery of democracy, he said.

Sawant said that the cartoon is an impressive medium of expression as was used by opposition parties in politics in the past and the Congess too decided to resort to it to expose the ruling parties.The Shiv Sena, an ally of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in Maharashtra, attended a rally with Opposition leaders against the governments proposed bullet train project in the state.

The Senas decision to join leaders from the Congress, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) at the protest in Palghar comes after weeks of a high-pitched battle with its ally over a Lok Sabha seat in the district. While the Sena  which fielded its own candidate  lost the election to the BJP, it appears to be firm about not allying with it for the upcoming elections in 2019.

While party president Uddhav Thackeray was not at the rally, the Sena sent its spokesperson, Neelam Gorhe.

It was Uddhavsaheb who had already declared his opposition to this project when a delegation of villagers had called him on May 18, Gorhe said at the rally, and added that the Sena president had been steadfast in his opposition to the bullet train project.

Instead of spending money on such money-guzzling projects, it makes sense to invest in the existing railways lines which would help the journey of local commuters make more comfortable, she said.

While Congress leader and former Union minister of environment and forests, Jairam Ramesh, was to attend the rally, he asked a local Congress leader to represent the party.

One of the reasons Thackeray skipped the meeting was because no major leader from other parties was a part of the protest either.

Gorhe also said the residents of the 73 villages in Palghar that will be affected by the project were not taken into confidence by the National High Speed Rail Corporation (NHSRC) before it went ahead with the 1.10 lakh crore project. The corporation will buy around 1,400 hectares of land for the project, and thousands of tribal people will lose their livelihood,Gorhe said.

CPI(M) leader Ashok Dhawale, who was one of the main organisers of the meeting, said his party had invited all political parties, except the BJP, to take part in the rally. It makes no sense to call the BJP, as it is the only party that wants the bullet train to come at any cost. All other parties want the project to scrapped, as it makes no economic and social sense at all, Dhawale said.

The leaders also passed a resolution at the meeting, that no farmer will give an inch of land for the bullet train or another mega project, the Mumbai-Vadodara expressway project.

Nawab Malik, the NCPs vice president, said at the rally that the bullet train should not be a priority of the govenrment, and that PM Modi should instead concentrate on strengthening the present railway infrastructure.

Ulka Mahajan, convenor of the forum, said the government deliberately diluted the law to get land from the tribals.

Political experts, however, said the Senas opposition to the project was just its way of getting back at the BJP. The Shiv Sena knows the BJP is desperate for an alliance for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and hence, it is sparing no effort to make the BJPs life uncomfortable. said political analyst Surendra Jondhale. Thackeray wants to boost the morale of Sena workers, who are not happy with the alliance.

The Sena had been the big brother in the alliance with BJP for 25 years, but this ended in 2014, after the Assembly elections that year when the BJP won more seats and formed the government. The Sena, which joined the government later, had to be happy with a smaller share of ministries.

On Saturday, the Palghar District Collector Dr Prashant Narnaware called off a public consultative meeting between the NHSRC and stakeholders, as the farmers did not receive a technical report of the project and the meeting was convened at short notice.The Deonar police have booked three people in the murder case of a 29-year-old man who was brutally killed after he had an argument with the accused.

The accused had earlier been involved in a dispute with the group and on Friday, the trio continued to argue with him as he made his way for prayers at a nearby mosque.

According to the police, the deceased has been identified as Ahmed Hussain Shaikh, a resident of Gautam Nagar, near Sunni Masjid, Govandi.

The complainant Akhtar Hussain Shaikh, 25, the brother of Ahmed, told the police in his statement that the incident took place on June 1 at around 10:30am, when Ahmed was making his way through a narrow lane to reach the mosque.

The trio were hanging out in the area when the victim with whom they had earlier had an argument passed by. The three men approached him and began egging him into another argument, said a police officer.

They began to argue with him again and asked him to move along to the mosque, giving him directions. The victim, however, refused their help saying he already knew the way. His response along with the anger over the previous argument led to the group getting violent. They assaulted Ahmed and caused him serious injury which lead to his death, the officer said.

The Deonar police have registered a case under section 302 (punishment for murder), 34 (common intention) and 506 (2) (threatening) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

We have registered a murder case against three people and are further investigating the matter. We were able to arrest one of the three accused and the search for the others is ongoing, said D Shinde, senior police inspector. According to the authorities, the three men are related to each other.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ONResidents living in parts of the suburbs as well as those in Thane and Navi Mumbai can heave a sigh of relief as the Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited (MSETCL) has repaired one of the two transformers which had tripped on Friday. It had resulted in power outage in these areas.

The transformer, which was expected to be repaired within seven days, became operational within three days. There were no power cuts in these areas on Sunday, sparing the residents from the sweltering heat. Vishwajeet Bhosale, public relations officer, MSEDCL (Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited) said the situation is back to normal.

Two of the transformers are now fully operational while the standby one will be repaired within 40 days. Since the transformer is on standby, there would not be any outage because of it, he said.

The MSETCL has three transformerstwo 500 mega volt amp (MVA) ones and a 600 MVA one. On Friday, one 600MVA transformer was fully gutted and another 500MVA transformers wire was partially burnt. The full power load was being borne by the other 500MVA transformer, resulting in load shedding. This was aggravated as consumption tends to rise by nearly 15% during summers. MSETCL has repaired one 500MVA transformer.

I thought Sunday will be a nightmare, but thankfully there was no power cut, said Mulund resident KL Kaul. Suresh Parmar who has a shop in Vashi also said business was normal as there were no power cuts.Following an order by the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, a Pune builder will have to pay around Rs8.14 crores, with an additional compensation of 32.56 lakh, to two Aundh residents after failing to hand over a completed villa within the stipulated time.

The commission directed Marvel Omega Builders Private Limited to refund 8.14 crore, the amount that the complainants had paid, along with 10% annual interest since 2014 and 25,000 as litigation cost within three months.

The Aundh residents had booked a residential villa, three parking spots, and an open terrace for a total consideration of Rs8.31 crores. The agreement had been finalised on March 22, 2013. According to clause 5(b) of the agreement, the possession of the villa was to be handed on or before December 31, 2014.

When the developer failed to meet the deadlines, the complainants approached the National Consumer Commission, seeking a refund along with compensation. The developer opposed the plea, contending that the complainant had asked for additional work which caused the delay.

The Commission, however, noted that the additional work demanded would not have taken more than a few months. The work had come to a standstill due to a notice by the Pune Municipal Corporation, for which the complainants could not be held responsible, the Commission noted.

Obviously the Corporation would have stopped the work on account of some deviation on the part of the opposite party (developer) and therefore it is the opposite party which would be responsible for the delay, the Commission noted.

It has now directed the developer to refund the entire amount received from the Aundh residents along with interest at the rate of 10% per annum and pay them additional amount of Rs 25,000 as litigation cost within three months.A few clothes, two blankets tightly wrapped in a blue poly-bag, two steel bowls, a plastic water bottle, slippers and a small bag with medical documents and medicines  these are all of Kamla Tharu and his wife Kansis possessions, neatly placed on the lower half of a stretcher on wheels parked under a mango tree at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER).

Since October 2017, this stretcher is home to the 46-year-old man from Nepal as his wife sits and sleeps by his side on a mat while he gets treated at the hospital.

In January 2017, while on a trip to India from Nepal, the couple and their son were going to Uttarakhand when a bus accident left Kansi with head and back injuries and their son with a fracture of the left leg.

Both of Tharus legs were crushed.

I was rushed to a private hospital in Dehradun, where they charged us Rs 7,000 just for a four-hour stay. I was then taken to a government hospital for surgery of the right leg. As the other leg was badly injured doctors said they could not do anything about it. I was really scared, says Tharu, who is still unable to walk.

While his wife and son were treated in Dehradun and left for Nepal from there, Tharu was advised to move to PGIMER.

The ordeal

Taken to the advanced trauma centre first, and then the emergency, Tharus troubles got worse when his brother and brother-in-law, who had rushed in from Nepal to help him, went away because they could not cope with the chaos and trouble.

He spent seven harrowing days in the emergency, alone, starving, afraid to eat or drink because he did not have anyone to assist him with a bedpan or to take him to the toilet.

He was also petrified when the doctors went on their rounds, worrying that they would throw him out when they found out he didnt have any money. Much to his relief, however, they did not.

By that time, as Kansi recovered, she was asked to come to Chandigarh to take care of me and I was operated upon. In five days, the doctors discharged me and asked me to return after 10 days.

However, instead of 10 days, Tharu could only come back after four months as he went back to Nepal. I did not have money, an ambulance charges Rs 4,300 in Chandigarh and I had already taken a loan of Rs 50,000 for the treatment.

His son today works as a labourer back home to repay the loan.

On his return, Tharu decided to stay put at PGIMER till the completion of his treatment, making the stretcher his home with Kansi by his side. They have no money to rent a room in the city or hire an ambulance.

Their routine

About his routine, Tharu says, I get up at 4am and my wife moves me to a wheelchair. We go towards Gate number 3, where at 8:30am, we get tea and rusk and then at 11am we are served langar (free food).

Then Tharu gets back to his spot to exercise for two-and-a-half hours. My wife has to keep moving the stretcher as the shadow (of the mango tree) moves with the sun. The heat has started to bother him. These days its so hot that even the shade does not help, he says. Evenings are better. I enjoy the tea which I get at 4pm and then we sleep after were served food in the langar.

As Tharu, ends his story, a stretcher carrying a child is wheeled near him. We have been asked to revisit the hospital after six days, says the father, settling down for the night. He has no money to rent a place or hire an ambulance.Actor Rajnikanths film release in Tamil Nadu are usually a ritual for his fans marked with celebrations, but now tempers are running high ahead of the Kaala release on June 7. The back to back statement by Rajnikanth supporting the police action during IPL ban in Chennai and the firing in Thoothukudi has earned more political rivals for the star in Tamil Nadu, which the theatre owners in Chennai fear may affect the smooth release of Kaala.

The Tamil superstars statement emphasising that the anti socials were responsible for the Thoothukudi firing and Tamil Nadu will become graveyard if the protests continued for each and every thing has not gone well among the opposition and they had branded Rajnikanth as BJPs B team.

The soft approach of Rajnikanth towards the BJP and the AIADMK is to ensure that his movies are released without any hassle and he should ensure that the tickets of his new movie are now sold within the state prescribed rates said PMK MP and former union health minister Anbumani Ramadoss.

The DMK leader M K Stalin and AIADMK rebel leader TTV Dhinakaran have now intensified their attack on Rajnikanth for his recent remarks against protestors demanding Cauvery water management board and the closure of sterlite copper plant at Thoothukudi.

According to industry sources, the film has already hit the controversy in neighbouring Karnataka with the film distributors and theatre owners showing no interest to screen the big budget movie produced by actor Dhanush, who is also the son in law of Rajnikanth. They are worried about the release in north and south Tamil Nadu, where there are unrest due to fringe elements.

It may be noted that Kaalas director Pa Ranjith had also made controversial statements against a few pro-Tamil outfits including the Naam Thaamizhar Katchi and its leader Seeman.

However, the statement by Rajinikanth has made the ruling AIADMK and the BJP to inch closer towards the star. Union minister Pon Radhakakrishnan on Saturday urged the Karnataka state administrators to ensure the smooth release of Kaala. And in Tamil Nadu, senior minister D Jayakumar who termed the film Kaala as kaalan meaning mushroom that sprouted over last nights rain later changed his view after Rajinis speech on Sterlite. The minister last week said Rajinikanth was speaking from his heart and was not playing to the gallery, unlike others.

Top police sources in Chennai confirmed HT that the production firm and theatre owners in Tamil Nadu have asked for additional deployment of police to control the crowd during the release of Kaala.

Tamil Nadu Film Producers Council President and actor Vishal was not available for his comment. Prominent theatre owners in Chennai expressed displeasure over Rajinis remarks but wished not to go into the details. Tamil Nadu theatre owners Federation president Abhirami Ramanathan was also not available for his comment.

ott:10:ht-entertainment_listing-desktopChina has warned that the United States that the outcome of trade talks will be void if Washington imposes trade sanctions including tariffs on Chinese goods, state media reported Sunday quoting a government statement issued at the end of two-day high-level talks between Chinese and US trade officials.

The talks were led by US Commerce secretary Wilbur Ross and Chinese Vice-Premier Liu He in Beijing.

The outcome of the talks should be based on the prerequisite that the two parties meet each other halfway and will not engage in a trade war, official news agency, Xinhua reported quoting from the statement.

All economic and trade outcomes of the talks will not take effect if the US side imposes any trade sanctions including raising tariffs, the statement said. The attitude of the Chinese side remains consistent.

China, it said, was willing to increase its quota of imports as it was part of the countrys national strategy.

To meet the peoples ever-growing needs for a better life and the requirements of high-quality economic development, China is willing to increase imports from other countries, including the United States, which will benefit people of both countries and the rest of the world, the statement said.

The two-day talks in Beijing which ended on Sunday followed an earlier round in Washington where officials had met to discuss the situation.

To implement the consensus reached in Washington, the two sides have had good communication in various areas such as agriculture and energy, and have made positive and concrete progress while relevant details are yet to be confirmed by both sides, the statement said.

The two sides issued a joint statement in Washington last month, vowing to strengthen economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

Liu is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and chief of the Chinese side of the China-US comprehensive economic dialogue.

Trade tensions between the US and China, the worlds two largest economies, had intensified in April after Beijing said it was slapping duties on 106 American imports following Washingtons plans to put new tariff on hundreds of Chinese items.

Neither country has implemented the tariffs yet and continued discussions to find a way out of the impasse.China has welcomed as positive Prime Minister Narendra Modis remarks at a Singapore forum that India-China cooperation is good for the worlds future.

Delivering the keynote address at the 17th Shangri-La Dialogue in the city-state of Singapore, Modi called bilateral ties as layered, and said he firmly believed that Asia and world will have a better future if India and China work together with trust and confidence, keeping in mind each others interests.

A top Chinese general who led Beijings delegation to the forum called it a positive assessment of ties between the two countries.

Modi gave a positive assessment of China-Indian relations in his speech, lieutenant general He Lei told state media.

It was also noticed in Beijing that Modi avoided any mention of the Quad  comprising US, Japan, Australia and India  in his speech and instead spoke out against trade protectionism in a not-so-veiled reference to the US.

Modis statement and the Chinese response comes a week before the Indian PM is set to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in the coastal city of Qingdao where he is also set for a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping, the second time in less than two months.

India and Pakistan will attend the SCO summit for the first time as full members of the bloc.

Xi and Modi met for an informal summit in the central China city of Wuhan on April 28 and 29 where the two interacted  mostly one-on-one  for nearly 10 hours.

The exchange of positive statements ahead of the SCO summit continues to mark the remarkable turnaround in bilateral ties after it plunged into a near-freeze during and in the aftermath of the Doklam military standoff last year.

Reacting to Modis speech in Singapore, Chinese academics said it was a positive movement in ties, but also qualified it saying that the Indian PM could be sending positive signals to ensure he attracts more votes at upcoming elections.

Modis remarks sent a signal of goodwill toward improving China-India ties, which had been soured by a military standoff last year, Hu Zhiyong, a research fellow at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences Institute of International Relations, told the Global Times, a state-controlled tabloid with ties to Peoples Daily, the mouthpiece of the Communist Party of China.

Modi administration needs improved China-India ties to help it win more votes in next years election, said Hu.

The India factor is what makes this years dialogue different from previous ones, Zhao Xiaozhuo, a research fellow at the PLA Academy of Military Sciences, told the newspaper.

The Indo-Pacific strategy, and the quasi-alliance between the US, Japan, India and Australia will not last long, Zhao said.

The Shangri-La dialogue is a multilateral platform focusing on the defence and security situations in the Asia-Pacific region.

More than 600 delegates comprising leaders and officials from 40 countries and regions attended the event.Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has told a UN human rights expert who said the countrys judicial independence was under threat to go to hell, warning against interference in domestic affairs.

The Philippine Supreme Court voted last month to remove Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, whom Duterte had called an enemy for voting against controversial government proposals, citing violations in the way she was appointed.

Her dismissal is sending a chilling message to other supreme court judges and members of the judiciary, Diego Garcia-Sayan, special UN rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, said on Friday.

Tell him not to interfere with the affairs of my country. He can go to hell, Duterte told a news conference late Saturday night, prior to leaving for an official visit to South Korea.

The outspoken Philippine leader is known for defying international pressure and his diatribes against critics.

In particular, he has railed against former US President Barack Obama and UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings, Agnes Callamard, for criticising the bloody war on drugs, his signature public safety project.

Sereno, the first chief justice to be removed by her peers, had voted against several of the Dutertes proposals including the extension of martial rule in the volatile southern Philippines.A startup founded by two Indo-Canadians will start field trials for their product this month, and in their case, field is the operative word since the new company plans on taking artificial intelligence to the farm.

Ukko Agro, named after the Finnish God of agriculture was founded late last year by Ketan Kaushish, who is from New Delhi, and Avi Bhargava, from Kurukshetra in Haryana. It uses the tagline, Helping farmers grow more, sustainably. Its cloud-based predictive system will be deployed in a limited commercial rollout with select growers in three provinces of Canada and five US states.

What we plan to do it is helping farmers optimise crop inputs, which is pesticides, water, and more. We collect hyperlocal weather data, both observed and forecasted. We analyse this via machine-learning based algorithms. Then we tell farmers up to three days in advance when to spray and how much to spray, Kaushish said.

The focus now is on pesticide usage, informing clients when to spray and the dosage that will most effective. The primary goal is to help growers minimise crop losses so its a risk averse system, Kaushish said. The next phase will involve taking the model to irrigation, telling farmers when, how much, and how often to water their crop.

Rather than being an app, farmers will be able to access information via periodic text messages, Kaushish said. We know that farmers as not tech savvy, so our goal is to deliver value in a very simple way so that we dont take away time from a farmers busy schedule. Our philosophy is that a solution should be simple enough to operate and advanced enough to facilitate on-farm decision making with minimal time investment from farmers, he explained.

Avi Bhargava (left) and Ketan Kaushish, co-founders of the Toronto-based startup Ukko Agro (Courtesy: Ukko Agro))

After North America, Ukko is targeting the European market. India is a fertile territory as well, and certainly on its horizon.

This is important, Kaushish said, with regard to irrigation: That is why it is even more important in India because a lot of farmers dont have irrigation equipment, they need to lease it or rent it. If farmers knew when its expected to rain, how much its expected to rain, how much moisture the soils holding as of now, they would be able to make more intelligent decisions.

But India poses a complex challenge for a farm-specific AI solution like Ukko. The area of a single farmers holding in North America could be 15,000 acre, but that could mean 15,000 different plots in India. Thats one reason Ukko is looking at partnerships before entering the Indian market, including those with government departments.

Ukko Agros base model was developed by William Fry and Ian Small at Cornell University in upstate New York. Its core Toronto-based team, other than Kaushish and Bhargava, include engineers Tasos Stamadianos and Haardik Haardik.

For Kaushish, the field of agriculture is not foreign. His father, Prabodh, has been in the sector for four decades, in recent years running a business selling organic inputs to farmers. The son, though, is now involved in using the latest tech tools to trick out the ancient profession.Police shot and wounded a knife-wielding man inside Berlins main cathedral today but said there was no indication the assailant had a terrorist motive.

Officers cordoned off the entrances to the landmark in the heart of the German capital after the incident, in which one policeman was also hurt by what was believed to be a police bullet.

About 100 people were visiting the cathedral at the time of the incident and had been evacuated by staff by the time two police officers arrived at the scene. Shortly after 4 pm (1400 GMT) police shot at a rampaging man at Berlin Cathedral, police said in a tweet.

He was wounded in the leg.

Both the assailant and the officer were being treated in hospital.

A spokesman later added that the man was a 53-year-old Austrian who had been brandishing a knife and was verbally aggressive. When the two officers arrived at the scene, the man was at the altar.

Witnesses told local media that the man appeared very confused. The iron-domed Protestant cathedral, one of the citys top tourist attractions, is on Museum Island off east Berlins main Unter den Linden boulevard and close to the Alexanderplatz shopping district.

Based on what we know so far, we have no information that the suspect in any way had a terrorist or Islamist motive, a police spokesman said.

Police vehicles at the Berliner Dom after a German policeman shot a man at the Berlin Cathedral, German media reported in Berlin, Germany. (Reuters Photo)

An AFP reporter said the entrances to the building were blocked off with red-and-white police tape and several officers with automatic weapons were patrolling the scene.

DPA news agency said some witnesses were taken away to receive psychological counselling.

The shooting comes with authorities in a state of high alert for jihadist attacks after several assaults claimed by the Islamic State group in the country.

Like other European nations, Germany remains a target for Islamist militant groups, in particular because of its involvement in the coalition fighting IS in Iraq and Syria, and its deployment in Afghanistan since 2001.

In the worst jihadist attack in the country to date, Tunisian asylum seeker Anis Amri rammed a truck into crowds at a Berlin Christmas market in December 2016, killing 12.

The assault occurred in the shadow of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, a war-damaged landmark in the west of the capital.Nearly half of Afghanistans children are not attending school because of war, poverty and other factors, a new report showed Sunday.

The study, released by the Education Ministry and the U.N. childrens agency, said that 3.7 million, or 44 percent, of all school-age children are not attending school. It marks the first time since the U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 that the rate of attendance has declined, following years of steady gains in education for boys as well as girls, who were banned from attending school under the Taliban.

The survey says girls account for 60 percent of those being denied an education.

Business as usual is not an option for Afghanistan if we are to fulfil the right to education for every child, Adele Khodr, UNICEFs Afghanistan representative, said in a statement. When children are not in school, they are at an increased danger of abuse, exploitation and recruitment.

The Taliban have seized several districts across the country in recent years, as the U.S.-backed government has struggled to combat the insurgency. A long-running financial crisis, exacerbated by widespread corruption, has further hindered government efforts to expand access to education.

Widespread poverty forces many families to push their daughters into early marriages, often with much older men. The legal age for marriage in Afghanistan is 18, but the law is poorly enforced, particularly in conservative, rural areas.

Girls education is still frowned upon in much of the conservative Muslim country, and is banned in the steadily expanding areas controlled by the Taliban.Chinas military buildup in the South China Sea and its deployment of high-end weapons systems in the disputed waterway is designed to intimidate and coerce neighbours, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Saturday.

Speaking at a high-profile security summit in Singapore, the Pentagon chief also said the US military continues to support diplomats pushing for the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula.

Mattis said Beijing had deployed a range of military hardware -- including anti-ship missiles, surface-to-air missiles and electronic jammers -- across the South China Sea, where it has built islets and other maritime features into hardened military facilities.

Beijing has also landed heavy bombers on Woody Island in the Paracel Islands.

Despite Chinas claims to the contrary, the placement of these weapon systems is tied directly to military use for the purposes of intimidation and coercion, Mattis told the Shangri-La Dialogue.Thousands of Palestinians, including hundreds of medical workers in white uniforms, took part Saturday in the funeral procession of a colleague who was shot dead by Israeli troops the previous day along the Israel-Gaza border.

Razan Najjar, a 21-year-old volunteer paramedic, was shot as she tried to help evacuate wounded near Israels perimeter fence with Gaza. She was the second woman among more than 115 Palestinians who have been killed by Israeli army fire since Gaza border protests began in late March.

UN officials condemned the killing of Najjar, saying that witness reports indicated she wore clothing that clearly identified her as a health worker.

The killing of a clearly identified medical staffer by security forces during a demonstration is particularly reprehensible, said Jamie McGoldrick, the local UN humanitarian coordinator.

After Najjars funeral, dozens of mourners headed to the fence and started throwing stones at the Israeli soldiers on the other side. The Palestinian Health Ministry said five protesters were wounded by Israeli fire.

Later Saturday, in a development that threatened to collapse an informal cease-fire, the Israeli military said two projectiles were fired from Gaza. One was intercepted by the Iron Dome defense system and the other landed inside Gaza. Earlier this week, Gaza militants fired a large barrage at Israel, which responded with heavy strikes on Gaza installations.

Early Sunday, the Israeli military said fighter jets attacked three Hamas military compounds in response to the rocket fire. It said it struck a total of 10 targets, including weapons manufacturing and storage sites. Militants responded by firing another projectile that was intercepted, the army said.

Meanwhile, in the West Bank, the Israeli military said its troops shot dead a Palestinian who tried to ram a tractor into its forces.

A Palestinian man uses a slingshot to throw a stone towards Israeli forces as smoke billows from burning tyres during a demonstration along the border with the Gaza strip east of Gaza city on June 1, 2018. (AFP Photo)

The military said its initial investigation revealed that a 35-year-old Palestinian from a village near Hebron tried to run over an officer with a Bobcat tractor. The attacker then turned around and tried to attack nearby Israeli civilians, the military said.

It said a soldier opened fire, killing the assailant. No Israeli troops were harmed.

Since 2015, Palestinians have killed over 50 Israelis, two visiting Americans and a British tourist in stabbings, shootings and car-ramming attacks. Over 260 Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces in that time. Israel says most were attackers. The attacks have petered off in recent months as the Palestinian focus has shifted toward mass protests at the Gaza border.

On Friday, the Palestinians protested for the 10th week in a row. The military said some hurled grenades and pipe bombs at troops behind the border fence. Some 40 Palestinians were wounded and Najjar was the only one killed.

The Khan Younis hospital said Najjar had a gunshot wound in the chest with an exit wound in the back.

The military said its troops operated in accordance with standard operating procedures and that it was investigating the incident.

Israel insists that throughout the weeks-long campaign its troops have fired only at instigators and that Hamas has been cynically using the demonstrations as cover to carry out attacks. But military officials have acknowledged shooting some people by mistake due to the crowded and smoky conditions of the protests.

On Saturday, the military said it thwarted a Palestinian attempt to damage the security fence surrounding Gaza and a group of militants briefly entered Israel before fleeing back into Gaza when Israeli troops opened fire.

Palestinians and human rights groups have accused Israeli forces of using excessive force, and of killing unarmed Palestinians who did not pose an imminent threat both in the West Bank and Gaza.

Najjars body was wrapped in a Palestinian flag as the funeral procession started from the hospital and passed near her home in Khuzaa, a village near the Khan Younis that is close to the border and has served as one of five protest encampments across Gaza in recent weeks. She was the eldest of six siblings.

I want the world to hear my voice ... whats my daughters fault? asked her mother Sabreen, dressed in black and seated on a mattress in her living room. She will leave a large emptiness at home.

On May 14, when the protests peaked over the opening of the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, a 14-year-old girl, Wessal Sheikh Khalil, was the first female protesters to be shot dead. She was among more than 60 people killed that day, the deadliest since a war between Hamas and Israel ended in 2014.

The Gaza protests are being organized by the territorys militant Hamas leadership and are aimed at drawing attention to the decade-long Israeli-Egyptian blockade on the territory. The blockade, meant to weaken Hamas, has caused widespread economic hardship in Gaza. The protesters are also demanding the right of return for Palestinian refugees from the 1948 war and their descendants.

Fares al-Kidra, a colleague of Najjar, said they were approaching the fence to evacuate a wounded man and, as they were leaving, three gunshots were heard and Najjar fell to the ground.

Al-Mezan, a Gaza-based rights group, said Najjar was 100 meters from the fence and wearing a clearly marked paramedics vest when she was shot.

Social media videos, and one captured by Associated Press footage, showed Najjar and a cohort of medics walking toward the fence and raising their hands to reach a wounded man lying on the ground. Najjar wore a dark blue headscarf and a white coat with the logo of the Palestinian Medical Relief Society, where she volunteered.

Izzat Shatat, 23, a volunteering ambulance worker, said he and Najjar were set to announce their engagement at the end of the holy month of Ramadan. He said he was worried and asked her not to go to the border area Friday but she refused.

She helped all people. She has never refused to help. She was the first to run toward anybody when he is shot, he said in tears.Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said he plans to visit North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, North Korean state media reported on Sunday, potentially the first meeting between Kim and another head of state in Pyongyang.

I am going to visit the DPRK and meet HE Kim Jong Un, Assad said on May 30, North Koreas KCNA news agency reported, using the initials of the countrys official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.

There was no immediate comment from the Syrian presidents office.

Assad reportedly made the remarks as he received the credentials of North Korean Ambassador Mun Jong Nam.

Pyongyang and Damascus maintain good relations, and United Nations monitors have accused North Korea of cooperating with Syria on chemical weapons, a charge the North denies.

Both countries have faced international isolation, North Korea over its nuclear weapons programme, and Syria over its tactics during a bloody civil war.

Since the beginning of the year, however, North Koreas Kim has launched a flurry of diplomatic meetings with leaders in China and South Korea, and is scheduled to hold a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Singapore on June 12.

Since taking power in 2011, Kim has not publicly met with another head of state in North Korea.

The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political calibre and wise leadership of HE Kim Jong Un, Assad said, according to KCNA. I am sure that he will achieve the final victory and realize the reunification of Korea without fail.

According to South Koreas foreign ministry, North Korea established diplomatic relations with Syria in 1966, opening its embassy in Damascus. Syria opened its mission in Pyongyang in 1969.

Close military cooperation between the two countries began when North Korea sent some 530 troops including pilots, tank drivers and missile personnel to Syria during the Arab-Israeli war in October 1973.

The Syrian government will as ever fully support all policies and measures of the DPRK leadership and invariably strengthen and develop the friendly ties with the DPRK, Assad said, as quoted by KCNA.Nearly four months after Justin Trudeaus disastrous visit of India, the Canadian prime minister has seen the lighter side of the trip, making plenty of self-deprecating digs at an event in Ottawa.

Speaking at the annual Parliamentary Press Gallery Dinner last week, Trudeau began his 15-minute speech with a slideshow showing an upside down map of India  symbolic of his visit  to howls of laughter from the gathered audience.

He came on stage as the song Jai Ho played, setting the tone for the evening, and started out greeting the audience with a namaste. And then he sent out a warning: In the interest of national security, I should disclose that Randeep Sarai was in charge of the guest list tonight, so just watch your back, thats what Im saying.

Sarai is the British Columbia MP who took responsibility for facilitating the presence of Jaspal Atwal during an official reception in India. The matter that went viral on Canadian media since Atwal has been convicted of an attempted assassination of a visiting minister from Punjab.

Trudeau said he wanted to rip off that band aid, with a very short summary of his visit, with the next slide showing a sad face emoticon.

Despite the blaring wall-to-wall international ridicule, it was a pretty good trip, he said, even as the slide of his arrival at New Delhi came up and showed him received by minister of state Gajendra Shekhawat. This was in sharp contrast to the warm welcome and hugs from Prime Minister Narendra Modi that marked the arrivals of other foreign dignitaries  an issue highlighted by the media as a snub from the Indian government.

Trudeau joked about the criticism he received for the often over-the-top Indian outfits he wore during that eight-day visit. A slide displayed a photo of him meeting Infosys CEO Salil Parekh, and Trudeau deadpanned: But you guys didnt report on its because I was wearing a shirt and tie. Boring.

Next, a photo of Trudeau meeting Shah Rukh Khan in Mumbai came on screen, with the actor dressed in a sober dark suit and the prime minister in a golden sherwani. Trudeau said: Well, one of us is seriously underdressed. How embarrassing for him!

Opposition leaders too ribbed Trudeau for his trip. Conservative leader Andrew Scheer sallied forth about how Trudeau had been very smart in making fun of himself in the context of the visit. You pre-empted all my jokes. India trip: That was half my material tonight, he said.

New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh complained that his main problem was Trudeaus dance moves at an official reception in New Delhi could turn off Canadians from the bhangra. He then followed that up with an impromptu lesson on some bhangra steps.

Trudeau left the best (or worst) for the last, as laughter greeted the final slide showing his wife Sophie Gregoire: What a gorgeous photo, media couldnt stop talking about this onesuch a beautiful dress.

The photo in question was the infamous image that described the trip  Gregoire standing next to Atwal. However, in the slide, Atwal had been edited out of the photo, something Trudeau and his team would certainly wish had happened for real.

Trudeau ended his routine with a rueful: That was India, the trip to end all trips. Seriously, Ive told my team Im not going anywhere ever again!President Donald Trumps lawyers composed a secret 20-page letter to special counsel Robert Mueller to assert that he cannot be forced to testify while arguing that he could not have committed obstruction because he has absolute authority over all federal investigations.

The existence of the letter, which was first reported and posted by The New York Times on Saturday, was a bold assertion of presidential power and another front on which Trumps lawyers have argued that the president cant be subpoenaed in the special counsels ongoing investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

The letter is dated January 29 and addressed to Mueller from John Dowd, one of Trumps lawyers at the time who has since resigned from the legal team. In the letter, Trumps lawyers argue that a charge of illegal obstruction is moot because the Constitution empowers the president to, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.

Trump weighed in on Saturday on Twitter, asking Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media? He added: When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country.

Mueller has requested an interview with the president to determine whether he had criminal intent to obstruct the investigation into his associates possible links to Russias election interference. Trump had previously signaled that he would be willing to sit for an interview, but his legal team, including head lawyer Rudy Giuliani, have privately and publicly expressed concern that the president could risk charges of perjury.

If Trump does not consent to an interview, Mueller will have to decide whether to forge forward with a historic grand jury subpoena. His team raised the possibility in March of subpoenaing the president but it is not clear if it is still under active consideration. Giuliani has told The Associated Press that the presidents legal team believes the special counsel does not have the authority to do so.

A court battle is likely if Trumps team argues that the president cant be forced to answer questions or be charged with obstruction of justice. President Bill Clinton was charged with obstruction in 1998 by the House of Representatives as part of his impeachment trial. And one of the articles of impeachment prepared against Richard Nixon in 1974 was for obstruction.

Topics of Muellers obstruction investigation include the firings of both Comey and former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, as well Trumps reaction to Attorney General Jeff Sessions recusal from the Russia investigation.

In addition to the legal battles, Trumps team and allies have waged a public relations campaign against Mueller to discredit the investigation and soften the impact of the special counsels potential findings. Giuliani said last week that the special counsel probe may be an entirely illegitimate investigation and need to be curtailed because, in his estimation, it was based on inappropriately obtained information from an informant and former FBI director James Comeys memos.

In reality, the FBI began a counterintelligence investigation in July 2016 to determine if Trump campaign associates were coordinating with Russia to tip the election. The investigation was opened after the hacking of Democratic emails that intelligence officials later formally attributed to Russia.

Giuliani has said a decision will not be made about a possible presidential interview with the special counsel until after Trumps summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore.Britains new home secretary Sajid Javid on Sunday confirmed he is reviewing aspects of the hostile environment policy put in place by Prime Minister Theresa May, when she was holding his portfolio in the David Cameron government.

The term hostile environment refers to a set of controversial policies that make it difficult for illegal migrants in the country to open bank accounts, rent housing, obtain driving licences and access medical care. It has been part of objectives by successive Conservative governments to reduce migration.

Javids review includes taking a fresh look at dropping Indian and other non-EU students from net migration figures, a major demand of his cabinet colleagues as well as stakeholders since it sent a message that the students are unwelcome in Britain.

Speaking on the Andrew Marr Show on BBC, Javid  the first Muslim and Asian-origin person to be named Britains home secretary  said he was also reviewing the issue of Indian and other non-EU doctors being denied visas to take up jobs in the National Health Service because the monthly quota of work visas had been hit in recent months.

The annual cap of 20,700 work visas for skilled professionals with job offers in Britain is allocated every month. Besides doctors, IT specialists and engineers have also been denied visas in recent months, causing much ennui in various sectors.

Javid said: I see the problem with that. It is something that Im taking a fresh look at. I know a number of my colleagues certainly want me to take a look at this, and thats exactly what Im doing. And I hope to think about this more carefully and see what can be done.

May has repeatedly resisted dropping non-EU students from net migration figures, but Javid said he understood the criticism of the policy, adding that he did empathise with the view that it did not sound very welcoming. There has been a major drop in the number of Indian students coming to the UK since 2010.

He said: There is a perception problem around this. Its something Ive long considered. He said would look at it again but the issue was not at the top of his priority list, which was preoccupied with the Windrush controversy and security issues.

Javid also answered his critics over his refusal to recognise the umbrella organisation Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) as a true representative of the British Muslim community. The MCB had last week asked the ruling Conservatives to tackle Islamophobia in the party.

Javid said: As you just described me, I am Sajid Javid, I am the home secretary in this country...The MCB does not represent Muslims in this country. You find me a group of Muslims that are represented by the MCB.

Soon after the television interview, his remarks on the MCBs standing in the community prompted strong criticism on social media.The United States vetoed on Friday an Arab-backed UN draft resolution calling for measures to protect the Palestinians but failed to win backing for its own text condemning Hamas for the violence in Gaza.

The two failed votes at the Security Council came on the same day that a young Palestinian woman was shot dead by Israeli soldiers near the Gaza border fence, bringing the death toll of Gazans killed by Israeli fire since the end of March to 123.

US Ambassador Nikki Haley declared that it is now completely clear that the UN is hopelessly biased against Israel, saying council members were willing to blame Israel, but unwilling to blame Hamas.

The outcome deepened the deadlock at the top UN body over how to respond to the flareup of violence in Gaza just days after UN envoy Nickolay Mladenov warned that the Palestinian enclave was close to the brink of war.

Ten countries including China, France and Russia voted in favor of the draft put forward by Kuwait on behalf of Arab countries. Four countries -- Britain, Ethiopia, the Netherlands and Poland -- abstained.

The Kuwait-drafted text had called for measures to guarantee the safety and protection of Palestinian civilians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, and requested a UN report to propose an international protection mechanism.

Haley told the council the measure was wildly inaccurate in its characterization of recent events in Gaza by condemning Israel for the violence.

No support for US rival text

During a second vote, the United States failed to win support for its own rival measure calling on Palestinian militants to halt their protests in Gaza.

Eleven countries abstained, while Russia and two others opposed it.

Protesters raise a Palestinian flag amid smoke from tear gas and burning tires along the border with Israel east of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza strip on June 1. (AFP)

A draft resolution requires nine votes to be adopted in the 15-member council and no veto from the five permanent members -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States.

This session was another missed opportunity for this council, French Ambassador Francois Delattre said, deploring an increasingly deafening silence from the United Nations on the Israeli-Palestinian crisis.

Kuwaits Ambassador Mansour al-Otaibi said the US veto will increase the sentiment of despair among the Palestinians.

A barrage of rocket and mortars into Israel from Gaza on Tuesday was followed by Israeli strikes on 65 militant sites in the Gaza Strip in the worst flareup since the 2014 war.

Israel has fought three wars in Gaza against Hamas, which the United States considers a terrorist organization.

It was the second time that Haley has resorted to US veto power to block a UN measure on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In December, Haley vetoed a draft resolution that rejected President Donald Trumps decision to move the US embassy to Jerusalem after all 14 other council members supported it.In Fort Worth, Texas police have charged a 13-year old suspect with murder for fatally stabbing her friend during a sleepover.

It was Tuesday morning that Nylah Lightfoot was stabbed at an apartment complex in South Fort Worth where family members say she was spending the night at the suspects home. When the two got into an argument, the female suspect pulled a knife and stabbed Nylah several times. She was soon transported to the closest hospital but did not survive. According to the medical examiner, Lightfoot died from stab wounds to her neck and her chest.

Because the suspect is a minor, Fort Worth police are not identifying her. It was during a court appearance on Thursday that a judge ruled that she would stay in juvenile detention and would not be released to her parents.

Antoinette Carter, mother of the victim, says that her daughter and the suspect were on and off friends. The suspect initially asked to spend the night at Carters home, but when she told her no, she insisted that Nylah come over to pick up some clothes shed left at her apartment.

My baby was the sweetest little girl here. She didn't bother nobody, Carter said. She made straight As. She was friends with everybody."

Carter explains that the two got into a physical altercation that led to the fatal stabbing.

She whooped you. You should have accepted it, Carter added. No, you had to go back in the house and get a knife and stab and kill my baby. Now, I'm daughterless. My heart feels like it's been ripped out and stomped on [] She didn't give me no problems. She was my backbone. She helped me with everything. For her to do this to her, it's just wrong."It's not hard for Azealia Banks to find something to complain about, but it seems that she might have a high ground when it comes to her latest target: famous drag queen and reality show host, RuPaul.

It seems that Azealia Banks has decided to celebrate Pride Month by going after RuPaul for apparently ripping off one of her songs. According to Out, Azealia claims that RuPaul's 2016 song "Call Me Mother" off his American album was a direct rip-off of her track "The Big Beat," off her 2016 mixtape Slay-Z. She's so convinced, in fact, that she got RuPaul's song taken off Spotify.

"Lol I got rupauls ripoff of the big big beat .. call me mother removed," Azealia wrote on Twitter. "You will not step on my little black girl toes bitch. You will take your razor bumps and pumps to the nearest laser hair removal clinic and seethe. @RuPaul BYE UGLY! ."

It seems it wasn't enough for Azealia to go after RuPaul's music, as she continues to go off on him in a series of tweets.

"Lol now that Im filing claims RuPaul wants to reach out," Azealia continues. "But where was that energy when you were stealing my work and using me as inspiration for your campy ass television show? Im disappointed in him first and foremost as a black person. He was supposed to have my back."

Azealia also says that she's working on getting the song taken off Apple Music as well. Considering Spotify agreed with her that the song was derivative enough to remove, then she's might be correct in this instance.French filmmaker Brian De Palma is best known for his work as director of flicks like Carrie, Blow Out, and Dressed To Kill, and now his latest subject will be none other than Harvey Weinstein.

In a recent interview with French paper Le Parisien, De Palma revealed that he is currently working with an unnamed producer on the project.

Im writing a film about this scandal, a project Im talking about with a French producer, the cinema veteran explained. My character wont be named Harvey Weinstein, but it will be a horror film, with a sexual aggressor, and it will take place in the film industry.

Its an interesting angle, but one with plenty of evidence to pull from as Weinstein has had dozens upon dozens of women accuse him of some form of sexual misconduct spanning decades, including harassment and rape.

At the moment, De Palma has a film, Domino, currently on ice as he struggles to secure a distributor for the movie. The film is a thriller centered on a police officer seeking justice for his partners murder. Its a low-key plot compared to the major blockbuster action and adventure flicks currently dominating Hollywood, but according to De Palma, thats one of the industrys downfalls as he focuses on more serious movies.

Hollywood has changed, he noted in the same interview. Dinosaur and superhero movies are for kids! You cannot make serious movies over there unless you are Spielberg and you are the studio. After "Mission: Impossible", when Tom (Cruise) said that he wanted to shoot the rest, I said, Are you kidding? Why would I want to make another movie like this? After that, I did Snake Eyes, Mission To Mars, and there I said: Stop. I was tired of these big movies, where you have to fight with the studios over the cost of special effects.It's not uncommon for people to become obsessed with their favorite celebrities, and it's also not uncommon for celebrities to give back to their fans. However, Kylie Jenner and her biggest fan might have taken the celebrity/fan relationship to the a whole other level.

According to Page Six, Johnny Cyrus is Kylie's biggest fan. It's not hard to believe either. Cyrus, who hails originally from Milwaukee, traveled all the way to San Francisco last week to visit Kylie at her pop-up shop. What proves his devotion even more is the tattoos he has devoted to Kylie, as Cyrus supposedly has tattoos of Kylie Cosmetics "dripping lips" logo, as well as a series of color swatches that match the colors of Kylie's lip kits. He's also her most famous fan as well (Travis Scott not included) as he has almost 150,000 followers on Instagram.

It seems that King Kylie is rather benevolent, as she reportedly gifted him a $2010 Louis Vuitton Apollo backpack when he came to visit her in San Francisco at her pop-up shop. The shopping back containing the back pack can be seen in the background of his pictures while at the store.

It's always a nice gesture when a celebrity gives back to a fan, though all those people out there who have Drake tattoos probably shouldn't expect to get anything in return.Josh Oren likes a home thats sophisticated and tightly edited.

His wife, Lisa, surveys their four children  2 to 15 years old  and wonders if thats possible.

Hes an energy industry executive; shes a stay-home mom whos always busy with their kids and all of the activities theyre involved in. They have friends over, they throw their stuff around and they eat, well, not always at a table.

So when they finally nabbed the lot they wanted in Oak Estates  a small neighborhood just north of Highland Village  they built a home to suit their family of six and Lisa, who once had her own business designing luxury window treatments, filled it with furniture.

But the home never seemed to be done and, four years after they moved in, Lisa still had a lengthy to-do list. Thats when she reached out to Laura Umansky, whose Laura U Interior Design firm had decorated a home for a friend.

A HOUSE REINVENTED: One Houston couple bought their bay home for its location, then turned the home itself into what they really wanted.

My husband is very opinionated, so together we are a good combo, said Lisa, 42. Hes like, I want a library, a sanctuary. And I want my own garage and a workshop and my own closet. I want it to be comfortable and livable and make my husband very happy and thats what Laura did.

Josh, 45, also remembered growing up with a nice bedroom and a big bathroom and closet  not a room that would only suit a child  and he wanted the same for his own kids. They might be young now, he thought, but they wont be forever.

Lisa has a practical side, too  actually, she calls herself a cheapskate  and it comes from having no sentimentality about a home or whats in it. Her own parents divorced when she was 5, and her mother was a successful Realtor in the Denver area. Shed see a home with potential, buy it, fix it up and sell it the next year. She was a home flipper before anyone called them that.

I probably lived in 20 houses before I went to college, said Lisa, a Denver native. And I had a garage sale every year of my life growing up, too. My mom would say have a garage sale and you can keep the money if you sell this stuff. I would always make $500 to $1,000, and I was in high school.

Early in their marriage  they lived in Dallas for a year and then Denver for a year before moving to Houston 17 years ago  she had one in Houston.

Josh and I were married three years, and I decided to have a garage sale, she said. I was out hanging signs at 6 a.m. and all of these crazy garage sale people were showing up early. Im like get out of bed. He walks out and cant believe all these people are in his driveway at 7 a.m.

A man approached her with a $3 item and offered $2. I said hmmm, I cant take less than $2.50. My husband throws up his hands and walks away, she said, mimicking his reaction like any good storyteller. He likes to tell the story that it was $1 and a guy offered me 50 cents, but it really did happen. Its not about the sale, its about the bargaining.

FINDING THEIR STYLE: Planned bathroom and kitchen remodel turns into a whole-home job as The Woodlands couple finally gets the home that fits them.

In July the couple  they met as students at Southern Methodist University when she was an undergrad and he was in grad school  will celebrate their 19th wedding anniversary. In those years theyve collected an impressive art collection that dazzles in every room full of beautiful new furnishings.

Theres a Rashid Johnson painting in their foyer and two John Gibson paintings in the family room. Their breakfast room has a large Philip Buller painting and a whimsical Mauro Perucchetti will make you smile when you pass through a hallway to the family room.

They have two Hunt Slonem paintings, and Lisa has a funny story about those, too.

A dozen or so years ago, a Houston woman called her about getting window treatments. Lisa wasnt really still in the business, but agreed as a favor for a friend. She went to the womans home and it was filled with at least 30 Hunt Slonem paintings. The womans husband had been Slonems roommate in New York years before, and he commented that his friend was just starting to get noticed.

Lisa asked if theyd be willing to sell any. The husband said no. The wife said yes, anything you want.

She bought a couple of them and a few years later when the couple divorced the woman called Lisa: I got some of them in the divorce, do you want to buy any more? she asked.

Each year Lisas mother and stepfather give them art as gifts, and their collection is varied, ranging from traditional framed paintings to Slonem butterflies and birds to Gibsons still life paintings of balls to Johnsons abstract works.

In all of it, choices were about compromise. Their taste in art differs, but they agree on everything they buy.

Thats how Umansky delivered a home they both love. She started with the art, found classic contemporary furnishings  much of which was made at the House + Town custom furniture company that she and her husband own  and made sure they could stand up to the wear and tear of a family of six.

The process was collaborative, with lots of ideas from Umansky, and texts from Lisa with pictures of things she saw in stores. Josh couldnt always see a piece of furniture and envision what it would look like with different fabric, but Lisa could.

Their family room rug is striking, and its stripe-y gray pattern looks like it could hide any number of stains. The super tough commercial grade fabric on the giant, 12-foot by 12-foot sectional sofa is one the whole family can pile onto and if drinks or snacks get spilled, youd never know it.

I dont want to be the mom whos like, Stop, dont mess up my house. I want a livable house, Lisa said.

Wallpaper was added to a number of rooms: the bar, the powder room, the foyer, a hallway and 2-year-old Stellas nursery. In fact, the nursery wallpaper is something Lisa has loved for years. When her eldest, Lilly, was younger, Lisa bought some of it to frame and use as art. Now, when they can afford a whole room of it, Stella gets the full treatment.

109 YEARS OLD: Rejuvenating a family bungalow in Montrose

Not that Lilly, now 15, has gotten slighted. Her spacious bedroom sits on top of a two-car garage and in addition to her glamorous black upholstered bed and black-and-white spotty rug, she has a sleeper sofa for when friends stay over. And pops of bright pink come in window treatments, draperies and furry pillows.

Sons Jack, 13, and Jeb, 9, have more masculine spaces. Jacks room also has a lot of black and white, and his bed has preppy monogrammed pillows. Jeb gets a chalkboard door, tall, tufted leatherette headboards and benches at the foot of each of two queen-sized beds.

While the home is nearly 8,000 square feet, it has neither a formal living room or formal dining room. Theres a breakfast room that has a leather sofa that son Jeb likes to hang out on after school. He pushes its back down flat and he and his friends sprawl.

Theres a bar off of the family room and its glass-front lighted cabinets are backed with pretty geometric wallpaper that blends with the silk-like look of the gray-blue wallcovering in the room itself.

The Saarinen table and midcentury modern chairs that used to be their dining set moved to the upstairs kids game room, partly because they needed a bigger table and partly because Josh hated those chairs. They were plain and plastic and one of them was cracked. Somehow, at dinnertime, he ended up in that cracked chair every night. One night he got a Sharpie and wrote his name on the back of one of the intact chairs so he wouldnt get stuck with the dud again.

Now they have a quartz-topped table with nice leather chairs, and three vivid blue barstools share space with a baby seat for times when the kids eat at the island.

In the kitchen, gray cabinets were painted white and brass hardware replaced the original stainless pieces. A new vent hood was fashioned, and two pieces of art that sat on each side of the hood were removed, and Umansky had to find a solution for a sticky problem.

When that wall was tiled, Lisa told her contractor not to put tile in those spots because she knew shed hang art there. That tile, though, was no longer available  and it was so pretty that no one wanted to have to re-tile the wall. So Umansky created custom mirrors the same size, and had shelves put at the bottom of each to hold oils and seasonings.

The Orens have a second home in Aspen, Colo., and the family spends much of the summer there. In 2017, Umanskys crew spent summer months on renovations and installation and the Orens came home to what looked like a whole new place.

When we came home, Josh loved that everything was so edited and nicely done and that boxes of my personal tchotchkes were stacked up, Lisa said, laughing. Everything shes done is wonderful.Dr. David Wesson points to a spot below his belly button. That's where the .22-caliber bullet pierced the abdomen of the first pediatric gunshot victim he ever treated.

The boy was 1 month old. He was perched on the kitchen table. His father had been cleaning a rifle when it unexpectedly discharged. The bullet ricocheted through the infant's body.

The surgeon's finger traces upward across his white coat, zig-zagging like a child's pencil following the lines of a maze: through the abdomen, into the liver and out the back.

The baby survived, Wesson said, but the Texas Children's Hospital trauma surgeon still remembers the bullet's path three decades later - and it still bothers him.

"When you treat somebody for cancer, you really feel that there's not much anybody could have done to prevent that," Wesson said. But not so with a child who's been shot.

"You're always thinking that, well, that could easily have been prevented," Wesson, now a grandfather of six, said during an interview in the emergency department's exam room.

In the last six days of July, three Houston-area children - boys 5, 7 and 11 - accidentally shot themselves in separate incidents, authorities said. Two died. Doctors and gun-safety experts say these events are doubly tragic because they are avoidable.

The boys joined the list of 139 children accidentally shot by themselves or by other children in the first seven months of 2016, figures show. In Harris County, accidental gunshot wounds kill more children than any type of accident except vehicle crashes, according to a Chronicle analysis of medical examiner's records from 2011 to 2014- an average of 27 children a year.

Authorities gave the following accounts of the most recent shootings:

On July 26, Edgar Padilla, 5, shot himself in the face at his grandfather's home in Harris County. He died two days later when life support was removed. On July 27, a 7-year-old boy shot himself in the forehead in Alvin after finding the key to his grandfather's gun cabinet; Brazoria County police said he was expected to survive, after the bullet traversed his scalp without entering his skull. And on July 31, an 11-year-old boy shot himself in the neck while playing with his uncle's gun in east Houston. Police said he died Aug. 9 when he was taken off life support.

These local incidents are typical of accidental shootings by children, according to data collected by Everytown for Gun Safety, an advocacy group. Most of the more than 100 children killed accidentally in 2013 were shot in family homes with legally owned guns. At least two-thirds could have been prevented by safe storage, the group found.

Gunshots stand out as causes of injury, Wesson said, because they are more likely to require surgery than car crashes or falls. Gunshots are more likely to be life-threatening and more likely to be fatal.

And while a bullet wound is a medical emergency regardless of age, gunshots are even more devastating to children's small bodies. "Young children have a different sort of vulnerability," Wesson said.

Gravitate to guns

A pediatrician in southwest Houston, Dr. Christina Propst, said children's smaller abdomens raise the chance of a bullet hitting key organs, blood vessels or the spine.

Dr. Fernando Stein, a critical-care specialist at Texas Children's, said children's lower body weights mean that bullets' kinetic energy disperses across less mass.

Military researchers have experimented by firing bullets into gelatin blocks of varying sizes, Stein said. A block weighing 250 pounds - the weight of a large adult - can absorb a bullet. A 50-pound block, the weight of a young child, explodes.

Stein is president-elect of the American Academy of Pediatrics, which has guidelines for gun safety.

"Firearms should be removed from the environments where children live and play, but if they are not, they must be stored locked and unloaded," the policy reads. "Safe storage practices can reduce the risk of death or injury."

RELATED: Few prosecuted under 'tough' Texas law on unsafe storage of firearms

Research shows that children gravitate toward guns and rarely handle them safely, Stein said. "When they see a gun, they take it and they hold it in the position of firing and usually the first thing they do is pull the trigger."

If parents or relatives keep guns in homes where children live or visit, Stein said locks and safes are crucial. He pointed to fingerprint-activated safes that cost as little as $120 and allow quick access for self-defense.

Multiple safety systems

Paul Slogan, an employee at Lone Star Gun Safes in Houston, agreed that fingerprint-activated safes are more secure. However, he said, "with kids, anything's better than nothing." A simple gun lock, a cable that runs through the chamber and magazine, costs less than $20. A trigger lock's price tag is about $10.

Stein recommends using multiple safety systems, such as locking ammunition and firearms separately while also keeping on a trigger lock.

However, the doctors said, locks are not foolproof. One of the Houston-area victims found the key to his grandfather's locked gun cabinet.

"Kids are curious, and they will watch what you're doing," Propst said. If they can find a key, she said, "they will find their way, unfortunately, into locked cabinets."

A National Rifle Association spokesman, Lars Dalseide, said the organization had no comment. The NRA's "Eddie Eagle" safety website says children should be taught not to touch guns and to tell adults when they find them.

Federal statistics show that children are 25 times more likely to die in a car crash than by accidental gunshot. The Centers for Disease Control also reports that the rate of death by accidental shooting has steadily declined since 1970. That year, 1.6 children per 100,000 died by accidental shooting; by 2014 that number was 0.4 per 100,000.

However, Everytown for Gun Safety says it has found that the CDC vastly undercounts accidental shooting deaths - so many of which could be prevented by safe storage.

Learn to 'respect gun'

Mark Mulligan/Houston Chronicle

Ken Stonebraker, a gun safety instructor in Dallas, agreed that hiding a gun or keeping it out of reach is not enough. For parents who want a gun handy in case of intruders, he suggested following his example: Keep one gun nearby in a fingerprint-activated safe and lock the rest in a complex gun safe.

Stonebraker said he believes familiarity with guns can diminish the risk. When his daughters turned 8, the Army veteran said, he took them out to shoot a .45 caliber gun at milk cartons. They felt the recoil and saw the damage done, he said. "They learned to respect a gun and they learned that a gun's not a toy."

In classes he teaches to parents and children, he tells kids always to assume a gun is loaded and to tell an adult whenever they find a weapon.

But training can't eliminate risk, Stein said. "There is no education that can prevent a child from doing what they do because they are children, which is hold the gun and pull the trigger."

Sitting in the emergency department at Texas Children's, just yards from the trauma bay where he directs the treatment of pediatric gunshot victims, Wesson remembers how many drivers refused to use seat belts when they were introduced because they considered themselves safe drivers. They knew about the recommendation; it just didn't apply to them.

In the same way, Wesson said, "it's hard for individual people to accept the general rule" that guns in family homes are more of a danger than a safeguard.

Michael Ciaglo/Houston Chronicle

"People think, well, it won't happen in my family, in my home," he said. "But the fact is that if you look across the whole population, people are much more likely to hurt themselves or other members of their family if they have a gun in the home than they are to injure or stop some intruder."

Lack of awareness

Wesson can't say whether he treated any of the three Houston-area boys who recently shot themselves by accident. So instead he talks about the month-old child he treated all those years ago as a young surgeon.

"To me it sort of epitomizes the whole issue," he said in the ER, where young patients' artwork decorates the hallways. "It wasn't because of anything but carelessness, and maybe a lack of awareness."

READ MORE: Houston surgeon gives inside look at TCH trauma center

A little girl walks by, holding her mother's hand. Before exiting the emergency department, she turns and waves to a nearby cluster of adults that includes the surgeon.

"Bye," Wesson says quietly, raising his hand and returning her wave.

He seems energized after interacting with this small patient.

Then he thinks back to that baby and the bullet that ricocheted through his tiny abdomen.

"Why'd that have to happen?" Wesson asks. "It didn't have to happen. It didn't."SAN ANTONIO  An audit addressing financial operations at the Alamo is in the crossfire of a battle between Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush and the Democratic candidate hoping to unseat him.

Bush called the audit and resulting changes by the General Land Office a deep dive in to the Alamos financial management policies. But his opponent in the Nov. 6 general election, Miguel Suazo, has said the audit should concern everyone who cares about the mission and battle site.

It clearly demonstrates that George P. Bush is in over his head and lacks the competence to manage our states most historic landmark, Suazo said hours after the Land Office released its internal audit Thursday morning.

The Land Office, which has endured criticism over a public-private master plan to repair the Alamos two 1700s structures, add a museum and refurbish Alamo Plaza as a reverent battleground by 2024, expects to enter an agreement by July 1 with the nonprofit Alamo Trust Inc. to provide daily operations at the state-owned Alamo grounds.

Since 2015, the Land Office has contracted with the Alamo Endowment to help with preservation, management, operation and restoration of the Alamo. That same year, the endowment created the Alamo Trust as a subsidiary and assigned it responsibility for the Alamo operations.

For the first time, the Alamo Trust, which replaced the Daughters of the Republic of Texas as operator of the Texas shrine, will have a management agreement requiring accounting and operational best practices recommended in the audit, GLO officials said. In a news release, Bush said the audit represents a cultural shift in the oversight of the Alamos financial management policies.

Many of the recommendations have already been implemented while others are being fulfilled through the implementation of a new Alamo management contract with the Alamo Trust, Bush said.

Land Office officials said the state agency, assigned oversight of the Alamo by the Legislature in 2011, hired three people with experience in finance for state agencies to oversee Alamo accounting and report to the Land Offices chief financial officer. It plans by Sept. 1 to have new policies in place regarding budgeting, purchasing and contracting, including timely reimbursements of operating costs, an electronic purchase-order system, monthly bank reconciliations and vetting of contractors to avoid conflicts of interest.

But Suazo, an Austin-based attorney specializing in energy and natural resources, said vulnerabilities exposed in the audit are disturbing. According to the report, the Alamo Trust and Land Office did not fully comply or have systems in place regarding procurement, daily deposits into the state treasury and timely requests for and payment of replenishment funds, among other areas.

This means that the Alamo is also risking the misuse of taxpayer funds, Suazo said.

Resigns from board

The flare-up is the first major one between Bush and Suazo over the Alamo. Suazo favors portions of the Alamo master plan, including closure of the plaza to traffic and relocation of amusement businesses in the plaza, to provide an atmosphere that respects the memory of hundreds of men killed in the battle on March 6, 1836.

But unlike Bush, who terminated the DRTs Alamo operations contract in 2015, Suazo has vowed to negotiate a contract with the Daughters to manage the site, with final authority resting with the land commissioner. The DRT had been custodians of the site since 1905, but were the subject of a 16-month attorney generals investigation into alleged mismanagement that began in 2010.

A draft version of the GLO audit was leaked to the media in February, prior to March 6 primary elections for commissioner. Bush fended off an election challenge by former Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson, but not without enduring criticism from Patterson and others, including state senators, about confusion and lack of openness involving the Land Offices role at the Alamo in conjunction with the Alamo Trust.

Bush has since resigned from the Alamo Trust board to avoid a conflict. The board held its first quarterly meeting that was open to the public on May 16.

Troubled past

The Alamo has incurred troubles in the past related to errors or questionable expenses. In February, the San Antonio Express-News, through a Public Information Act request, obtained an electronic scan of a check for $65,078 to the trust from the Remember the Alamo Foundation  another Alamo Endowment subsidiary created to raise funds privately for the Alamo master plan. GLO officials said the check corrected an error by Alamo accountants regarding personnel expenses.

Last year, another document obtained by the Express-News listed more than $1,600 in personal expenses made by an Alamo manager that did not qualify for reimbursement. The manager, who resigned but agreed to repay the trust, had made personal expenses that were unauthorized, or for which there were no receipts, using a credit card issued by the nonprofit. They included restaurant tabs, a painting and several unspecified purchases on Amazon.

The audit report can be viewed at savethealamo.com/ governance.html.

shuddleston@express-news.net

twitter.com/shuddlestonsaIts been a year since Marie T. Hernandezs father died but she can still feel his presence at the Sugar Land cemetery.

She used to visit the Cementerio San Isidro with him regularly as a child, and was entranced by its beauty and the memories it holds.

In a sense, hes here, she said during a recent trip. He was always, always here.

Hernandezs father, Jose, was a funeral director who directed services at San Isidro, the final resting place for Hispanic laborers who worked for the Imperial Sugar Co., the epicenter of the Fort Bend County town for more than a century.

Today, hundreds of gravestones dating to the early 1900s now sit amid others from more recent years  a hidden history of Sugar Lands Latino roots that is now gaining new admiration.

For Marie Hernandez, a professor at the University of Houston, its more personal. She has written a book about the cemetery, paying tribute to her father but also exploring the history she never knew as a little girl.

'HISTORY IN THE MAKING': Fort Bend ISD finds historic cemetery near construction site

I think its all part of learning who we really are, she said, about digging into Sugar Lands history. I think we treat people better when we realize that everything is really complex. Its not just a bunch of nice houses and pretty restaurants.

Interest in Fort Bend County cemeteries has grown since the school district recently found 94 graves at a construction site near a historic gated cemetery, which contains 31 marked graves for prisoners and guards on land that once was part of the Imperial State Prison Farm.

Reginald Moore, a community activist who has warned school officials not to encroach on the plots, has speculated that the newly discovered graves at the construction site could be slaves or African-American prisoners who were used as part of a convict leasing system dating back to the 1800s.

The graves are a few miles from the San Isidro cemetery, which sits inside the Sugar Creek subdivision. They are among about 50,000 cemeteries in Texas, including about 1,700 with historic designations, according to the Texas Historical Commission.

A community divided

When Maries father set out for Fort Bend with his wife in April 1950 to help out at a funeral home in Rosenberg, it was a far cry from growing up in Laredo. He was amazed at the discrimination facing Hispanics and horrified by the division between minorities and whites.

REPEATING HISTORY: Threats to historical cemeteries in area not new

He said that if he had known all the things that were happening here, he wouldve never come, said Marie. He had never experienced the kind of racism that people had to face here.

But Hernandez soon made a name for himself in Rosenberg and across Fort Bend County as the go-to person for Hispanic funerals. He became an advocate in the community, often venturing to the police station at night to intervene in altercations between police and Hispanics. He also was instrumental in organizing trips for community members to see the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

Marie and her family lived on the second floor of her fathers funeral home.

The presence of the dead was a central aspect of my life, she writes in her book, Cemeteries of Ambivalent Desire. I heard the crying at wakes, attended funeral masses, and accompanied my father to different cemeteries.

While studying for her doctorate in cultural anthropology at Rice University, she thought about San Isidro when a professor asked students to write about a place.

She eventually uncovered the history of the cemetery and how San Isidro was originally given to the Hispanic laborers. The company took in some area Hispanic workers and other Mexican laborers who were coming to Texas after the Mexican Revolution in the early 1900s. Some people who worked for what was then known as Sugarland Industries are also buried at the cemetery.

It was part of the original land grant of Stephen F. Austin, and eventually became open fields owned by Imperial Sugar. Today, the cemetery is surrounded by opulent homes in the Sugar Creek subdivision dating back to the late 1960s.

Imperial Sugar began in 1843 as Oakland Plantation with a raw sugar mill. It eventually grew into a booming business and was re-named Imperial Sugar Company, after the Imperial Hotel in New York City, when I.H. Kempner and William T. Eldridge took over ownership.

As years passed, the company began to face financial problems and filed for bankruptcy in 2001, with the refinery closing just two years later. Imperial Sugar was eventually acquired by Louis Dreyfus Commodities for $78 million and still produces sugar at refinery operations in Savannah, Georgia and Gramercy, Louisiana.

San Isidro cemetery is named after Saint Isidore the Laborer, a Spanish farmer who was known for his compassion toward the poor and animals.

Marie brought his statue back from Nuevo Leon, Mexico in 1999, and it sits on a brick pillar inside a white gazebo at the cemetery.

Family histories

Carmen Flores Perez and Terri Rodriguez remember being afraid to enter the old cemetery as young girls, even though it held many of their family members.

FRUSTRATED FAMILIES: Prosecutors' inquiry on gravestone removals offers hope to families

To me this is my only proof that the Hispanic community had a lot to do with the development of Sugar Land, said Perez, 68, who has more than 25 family members buried at San Isidro.

The two womens families are also connected because Perez grandfather, Matias Flores, and Rodriguez grandmother, Juanita Garcia, both moved to Sugar Land at the same time around 1917.

Perezs husband, Gilbert Perez, also has family members buried at the cemetery. His family members were sharecroppers for Sugarland Industries. Gilbert recalls picking cotton with his family as a child in the 1950s and 1960s in the area where First Colony Mall now sits. He would sometimes miss the first few weeks of school because the cotton season was extremely busy.

He said that they used to hate see the sun rise because they knew it was time for them to go work, Perez said.

Perez father, Eleno Flores, who is also buried at San Isidro, was a well-known mechanic, working on the tractors of farmers across the region and for a motor company owned by Sugarland Industries.

The deep family history entrenched at the cemetery is what makes the the two women fierce advocates of San Isidro. They remember when cemetery visitors would have to walk or drive their cars across an old wooden bridge over Oyster Creek to get there.

The Army Corps of Engineers eventually condemned the bridge in 1993, forcing the San Isidro Cemetery Association to decide whether to demolish it or try to rebuild at a cost or more than $125,000. Cemetery members decided to rebuild. Marie wrote in her book that some Sugar Creek residents did not like the idea of a funeral procession traveling through their neighborhood.

The cemetery associations legal fight to build a gate set up a dispute with the Sugar Creek Homeowners Association, a dispute that still brings tears to Rodriguezs eyes more than two decades later.

A mediator helped bring a resolution to the case in 1994, with the cemetery association gaining the right to build a gate along Sugar Creek Boulevard in 1995.

Its something that (we) still want to maintain and keep as long as we can, said Rodriguez, whose grandfather worked for Imperial Sugar and is buried at San Isidro. Thats why its important to let people know that we do exist here.

Cemetery association members are now wrestling with whether to apply for a historical marker. Some worry it could bring unwanted attention to the site, but others say it would help residents understand local history.

I love it because its like walking my neighborhood, said Perez. Over there is my fathers best friend that worked with him. Ill walk over there and theres two guys I went to high school with.

A legacy lives on

Maries father eventually suffered from dementia and strokes, and was too weak to continue running the funeral home.

She flew home early from her honeymoon last May to stay by his side during his final days. She sang songs to him in Spanish and remembers feeling his heart stop as she finished one of the songs. Hes not buried at San Isidro, however, because he never worked for Imperial Sugar.

His name is inscribed in the book dedication to ensure his legacy lives on.

In a way, she said, every gravestone is a concrete reminder of the story, unlike so many other places where the history has been erased.

brooke.lewis@chron.com

twitter.com/brookelewisaYear by year, Jackson Elementary School Principal Deana Gonzalez and her staff in Lamar CISD have seen their students making steady progress with a tried-and-true formula: dedicated teachers, extra instructional time with kids and a consistent campus vision.

No fancy programs. No silver bullets. Just parents, teachers and administrators all pulling hard in the same direction  and getting results for kids.

You will see our teachers giving their best, working late and coming in on the weekends, whatever it takes to get the job done. And my parents say, If my kid needs help, do whatever it takes, said Gonzalez, the fifth-year leader of Jackson Elementary,a predominately Hispanic campus in a lower-income section of Rosenberg.

The annual Children At Risk rankings show how Texas public schools fared on state standardized tests for math and reading, accounting for the demographics of each school's student population. The 2018 rankings show a continuing performance gap between wealthier and lower-income schools across the Houston area's 87 districts. Click here to search your school and district.





The recipe employed at Jackson Elementary resulted in remarkable academic gains last year, making it one of the biggest winners in the 2018 Children at Risk academic report card, released Sunday by the Houston-based nonprofit in conjunction with the Houston Chronicle. The annual grades and rankings reflect each Houston-area schools performance in math and reading on state standardized tests in 2017, adjusted for poverty rates and expected performance.

This year, the report card comes with a few new wrinkles. In response to feedback from local academic leaders, Children at Risk scrapped its statewide curve on its A-through-F grading system, which artificially set the percentage of schools receiving each letter grade. Instead, Children at Risk set standard benchmarks for receiving each grade  a move that has resulted in fewer A and F grades, with more campuses clustered in the middle grades.

SCHOOL REPORT CARD: See how your school and district ranked

The organization also changed its standard for measuring student achievement and placed greater emphasis on student growth, two tweaks designed to benefit campuses serving more impoverished students.

We do want to emphasize growth, and we do really want to emphasize those schools that, despite their circumstances, are outperforming their projected performance, said Claire Treacy, assistant director of Children at Risks Center for Social Measurement and Evaluation. A lot of thought and energy has been put into this.

The new methodology, combined with changes in school performance on state standardized tests, resulted in some shake-up on this years report card.

Out of the roughly 1,400 campuses evaluated by Children at Risk, dozens of schools made a major jump up the rankings or tumbled because of lower test scores. Jackson Elementary, for example, rose from 405th in the region last year to 148th out of 892 elementary schools.

They are just pretty excited and proud, Gonzalez said of students reaction to their progress. The teachers, more than anything, have seen hard work really does pay off. They just feel confidence that kids are able to succeed.

The regions highest-rated schools largely held their positions atop the rankings, but a few campuses serving predominately lower-income students lept into the top 10 for the first time in recent years. They include the Houston Gateway Academys Elite College Prep (fifth among high schools), Aldine ISDs Victory Early College High School (ninth) and KIPPs SHARP College Prep Lower School (10th among elementary schools).

SUBURBS SHINE: A handful of suburban districts score all passing grades

Also, without the grading system curve, Houston-area schools earning an A grade dropped from 31 percent in 2017 to 15 percent this year. Some school districts saw huge declines in their number of A-rated schools, including Clear Creek (from 27 to 5) and Humble (15 to 4).

At the same time, the share of F-rated schools in the Houston area declined from 14 percent last year to 10 percent this year. Aldine ISD benefited the most, cutting its number of F-rated campuses from 18 to 6.

Still, even with the changes that could benefit higher-poverty schools, a persistent income gap continues in the rankings. As in previous years, the vast majority of A-rated schools serve predominately higher-income students, while nearly all D- and F-rated schools serve more economically disadvantaged students than the state average.

Fourth grade teacher Gabriella Bogani works with her class at Jackson Elementary School in Rosenberg. The Lamar CISD school jumped from 405th to 148th in the annual rankings. Fourth grade teacher Gabriella Bogani works with her class at Jackson Elementary School in Rosenberg. The Lamar CISD school jumped from 405th to 148th in the annual rankings. Photo: Brett Coomer, Staff / Houston Chronicle Photo: Brett Coomer, Staff / Houston Chronicle Image 1 of / 7 Caption Close School Report Card: Progress has Houston students excited and proud about performance 1 / 7 Back to Gallery

Ringing the bell

A couple times per day, students and staff at Angleton ISDs Northside Elementary School gather at the front of the school for whats becoming a favorite tradition. Whenever a student meets a goal set earlier in the year  pass a test, meet an academic benchmark, avoid any behavioral issues  he or she gets rewarded with an enthusiastic tug on a bell bolted to the wall.

The bell has gotten yanked so much, Principal Lori Gonzalez said, that employees have already had to replace the clapper rope.

It just gives them something to look forward to, and I can tell you that they love it, Gonzalez said.

The staff at Northside Elementary will have reason to ring the bell themselves, as the 2018 Children At Risk rankings show enormous progress at the 440-student school. After years of placing well-below-average among the regions elementary schools, Northside Elementary jumped 323 spots, up to 346th in the region.

The change in Children at Risks methodology, along with improved standardized test scores, benefited many local districts this year  none more than Angleton ISD, home to about 6,700 students in central Brazoria County. Seven out of the districts eight schools improved their ranking this year, while the only school to fall dropped a single spot.

SMALL SCHOOLS: While sometimes an obstacle, smaller size can be big advantage for area rural schools

Under the new methodology, Children at Risk continues to evaluate all schools using three measures: raw test scores, student progress and performance relative to percentage of economically disadvantaged students. High schools are also evaluated on a fourth measure: college readiness.

In the past, 60 percent of an elementary or middle schools rating was based on raw scores, with progress and relative performance each making up 20 percent. This year, however, all three measures were equally weighted, placing significantly less value on raw scores.

Previously for high schools, raw scores and college readiness each accounted for 30 percent, while progress and relative performance each were weighted at 20 percent. This year, all four measures are equally weighted.

Angleton ISD officials said the change reflects the districts primary focus: student growth, regardless of a childs academic abilities. Lisa Davis, the districts director of secondary education, said Angleton ISD staff members increasingly rely on data centered around student progress to identify which kids  and teachers  need extra help.

COLLEGE PREP: At Houston's top high schools, a college degree is part of the package

We are more and more individualized this year than ever before, Davis said. Thats not just with students, but most importantly, because of the direct impact that it has on student achievement, on staff  Its really putting the resources we have in the training of teachers, meeting them where theyre at. I would say thats whats helping us get down the road.

Ultimately, major shifts in a schools ranking were frequently the result of improved test scores in 2018, as opposed to changes in Children at Risks rating system.

The shift also didnt dramatically benefit lower-income schools and districts across the board. In fact, some regional districts with high percentages of economically disadvantaged children, including Alief and Houston ISDs, saw their average school ranking decline, while relatively richer districts such as Tomball ISD and Lamar CISD increased their standing. Most districts saw mixed results.

Changing grades

While districts can still compare year-over-year changes in school rankings this year, the same cant be said of letter grades issued by Children at Risk.

In recent years, the organization used a curve to ensure 25 percent of schools statewide received an A grade, while 20 percent scored B, C, and D grades each, and 15 percent were rated an F.

This year, without the curve, about 10 percent of schools statewide earned an A, roughly 25 to 30 percent received B, C, and D grades each, and about 10 percent failed.

As a result, not a single district with at least 10 campuses increased its number of A-rated schools this year. Among those with at least five A schools last year, the districts that best maintained their share of top-rated campuses were Katy ISD, KIPP Houston and YES Prep Public Schools.

Treacy, the Children at Risk assistant director, said the organization hopes to keep the new methodology in place, though it might re-evaluate as the Texas Education Agency unveils its new A-through-F rating system for campuses next year.

Our role might shift in light of that and what happens next legislative session, Treacy said. In an ideal world, we would be able to keep this and make it clear.

***

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***If there is some consensus on some laws that could be passed, I am open to calling [a special session], Gov. Greg Abbott said last week, shortly after releasing his list of recommendations about gun safety in this state.

We believe that in the wake of mass-shooting atrocities in Texas and elsewhere that a consensus exists, not only about the need for a special session but also about sensible measures Texans can take to guard against what happened at Santa Fe High School and Sutherland Springs, the most recent mass shootings in this state.

The governors 40-page School and Firearm Safety Action Plan, the outgrowth of three round-table discussions he convened in the wake of the Santa Fe shooting, is a useful starting point.

The governor brought up so-called red flag laws. Already in effect in several states, these laws allow judges to temporarily seize an individuals firearms if that person is considered an imminent threat. Abbott didnt endorse the measure, although he asked lawmakers to consider the merits of adopting a red flag law while maintaining the highest standards of due process.

House Speaker Joe Straus also asked the House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence to consider such a law.

Abbott proposed spending more than $100 million to put more police and armed guards on school campuses. He recommended that Texas promote but not mandate safe storage practices. Had such a law been in effect in Texas, the 17-year-old Santa Fe shooter might not have gained access to his fathers guns. The governor also emphasized preventing threats in advance, by increasing access to mental-health screening programs and on-campus counseling.

Abbotts Democratic opponent in the fall election, former Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez, offered up the de rigueur critique of the governor, and yet her op-ed in the Houston Chronicle last week offered areas of overlap. Consensus, in other words.

She, too, called for increased mental health counseling, red-flag laws, safe gun storage and enhanced security in our schools, but she broadened the discussion to include children at risk of gun violence outside the classroom. She called for universal background checks and changing state laws that prohibit local governments from enacting gun-safety measures in their own communities. She called for a ban on bump stocks.

Valdez, with a long career in law enforcement and the military, has much to contribute to the discussion; obviously, the governor and his fellow Republicans in the legislature wont agree with all her proposals. But at this point, agreement is not the aim.

In the words of Texas Gun Sense Vice President Ed Scruggs, the only gun control advocate to participate in the governors round-table discussions, Were happy that the conversation has begun. We basically went 20 years without being able to have this discussion. This type of leadership, even on just a few moderate issues, is important.

Indeed, it is.

Imagine what would happen if sensible, caring and responsible people across the political spectrum agreed to meet and discuss in good faith  in Texas, of all places, the state with more mass shootings than any other over the last seven decades. Imagine if they spurned the zealots and the ideologues in our midst and agreed to hammer out practical and constitutional gun safety measures designed to save lives.

Maybe, just maybe, the horror and the heartbreaking losses weve experienced in Sutherland Springs and Santa Fe have shaken our elected officials out of their ideological sclerosis. Maybe consensus in the wake of tragedy is a real possibility. A special session of the legislature this summer is a good forum to test that possibility.Is the pendulum of Texas politics finally swinging back toward the center?

Hard to imagine how the leaders of the Lone Star State could push further to the right. Our lieutenant governor, a former conservative talk show host, threw gasoline on a prairie fire of anti-gay fervor by prioritizing legislation regulating bathroom use by transsexuals. Our governor deployed the Texas State Guard to appease nutjob conspiracy theorists claiming the Jade Helm military exercise was a pretext for the Obama administration to imprison political dissidents in tunnels buried beneath abandoned Wal-Marts.

RELATED: American conservative movement is dead, replaced by extremism

ALSO: Shifting winds of right-wing extremism

AND...: Toxic mix of violence, hate and tribalism is infecting U.S.

Now comes encouraging evidence that Texas voters are finally fed up with such shenanigans. In Republican primary races that ended with last months runoffs, a wave of business-oriented candidates scored victories over candidates backed by strong-arming social conservatives. Texas lawmakers should take note, and voters should take heart, that the electorate has decisively thrown its support toward moderate state legislators.

Exhibit A for this trend could be what happened in March here in the Houston area, where incumbent state Rep. Sarah Davis was targeted for defeat by Gov. Greg Abbott and Empower Texans, a dark money fueled fountain of disinformation and dirty politics run by a man whose nickname is mucus. Even though the governor took the unusual and ill-advised move of campaigning against GOP lawmakers who refused to march in lockstep with his agenda, Davis easily won her primary. Indeed, two out of the three Republican incumbents Abbott campaigned against cruised to victory despite his opposition.

RELATED: Empower Texans is playing on the fears of some of our most vulnerable senior citizens

Empower Texans fared even worse in its efforts to defeat moderate incumbents. Only two of the 16 House members it tried to unseat lost during the March primaries. The Texas Tribune reports all but one of the candidates the group backed in last months runoffs went down to defeat.

Give much of the credit to retiring House Speaker Joe Straus, whose pragmatic leadership put him at odds with the governor and the tea party extremists backed by Empower Texans. Straus reportedly raised money for a pro-business political action committee and put $1 million of his campaign funds behind moderate candidates. The success of the candidates he backed is further evidence that Texas Republicans can be pushed only so far to the right.

COUNTY JUDGE: Texas legislators to blame for property tax woes

Texas Democratic voters, too, went largely for moderate-minded candidates in their congressional races. In the contest to face off against incumbent U.S. Rep. John Culberson, attorney Lizzie Pannill Fletcher topped Laura Moser  an activist with a left-of-center tone, if not policy. Two other centrist candidates backed by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Gina Ortiz Jones and Colin Allred, won their respective primary runoffs as well.

Our states current GOP leadership, which wasted a lot of time and energy last year pushing bathroom bills, cant fix our school finance system and cant figure out how to pay for new highways. The message from the GOP primaries is clear. Texas voters are tired of hot-button politics. They want political leaders who know how to make our state government work, and theyre casting their ballots for business-oriented moderates to represent them in Austin. That used to mean electing Republicans. These days were not so sure.We go to work each day as pediatricians to promote the health and well-being of children, and we form relationships with families from all walks of life. We see rich and poor, immigrant and native-born parents provide the steady love and care necessary to help their children heal from the simple fractures of childhood, endure the side effects of leukemia treatment or recover from surgeries. A new government policy of separating immigrant children from their parents shows contempt for this basic impulse of a parent to protect a child and fosters deep and lasting harm for children who may end up as our patients.

The Department of Homeland Security recently formalized a policy to remove children from their parents when families enter the United States unlawfully. Its a practice that has been informally practiced for months, including among asylum seekers who have a lawful right to come to this country to request asylum from dangers that threaten their lives.

EDITORIAL: Trump tempts a humanitarian crisis by splitting parents from kids at the border

RELATED: Plight of children is lost in immigration debate

We recently visited a shelter for unaccompanied children run by the Office of Refugee Resettlement of the Department of Health and Human Services. Many of the children in that shelter entered the United States with their mothers or fathers but had been separated from them by immigration officials.

In a walled-in courtyard, we saw a 5-year-old girl chasing iridescent bubbles blown by two adults. Staff said she tried to run away any time she played outside, so she was limited to the courtyard. She would bite anyone who approached her, so she was kept away from other children and distracted with bubbles. Biting and seeking to run are signs of acute distress in a child of this age  a normal reaction to extreme fear.

EDITORIAL: A continuing border blunder could waste billions

This girl did not need bubbles and a walled courtyard but rather her mother or her father to calm her  someone who could hold her and make her world right again.

Children of tender age is what the shelter workers call the younger unaccompanied children in their care. These tender ones cannot understand why their mother or father was taken from them, and they dont know when, or if, they will see them again. The bureaucracy of the federal immigration system makes it difficult for these children and parents to find each other, talk to each other on the phone or eventually reunify.

In a two-week period alone, 658 children were separated from their parents under the new zero tolerance policy. The Trump administration has described the practice as a way to deter other families from coming to the United States.

EDITORIAL: Outrage about a Texas border death reflects distortions, partisan posturing and outright lies

Children who experience prolonged separation from a parent display an array of responses manifesting as loss of appetite, gastrointestinal upset, tantrums, aggression and self-injurious and suicidal behaviors. When we see them in our practices, we can offer support and referrals to counseling services and pharmacotherapy, where indicated. But as physicians, we cannot provide the most effective remedy  family reunification.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has taken a strong stance against separating already traumatized children from their parents, due to the detrimental effects of cumulative stress upon a developing brain. Research shows overwhelmingly the deep and lasting harm caused by removing children from their parents. A parent has a critical role to mitigate stress for children. Prolonged exposure to highly stressful situations  known technically as toxic stress  can alter brain architecture and hormone-signaling pathways, with lasting effects on the childs health. This kind of stress makes children susceptible to acute and chronic conditions such as extreme anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, hypertension and heart disease.

EDITORIAL: Want to make the border look dangerous? Count one assault as 126

The practice of separating immigrant children from their parents goes against everything we do as doctors to help families protect their children and promote their mental and physical development.

Many of our immigrant patients came to this country fleeing the dangers of their homeland, and they bring their children to protect them. That is their right and their obligation as parents  a decision we would admire in other Americans and which international and U.S. asylum laws allow for immigrants, too.

RELATED: Everything in moderation  especially when it comes to finding an immigration solution

Removing children from their mother, and keeping them apart for days or weeks or months, devastates the most basic human relationship we know  that of child and parent. A policy that promotes this separation is a betrayal of our most precious values as Americans. Our country is better than this.

Griffin is a pediatrician in South Texas and co-chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Immigrant Health Special Interest Group. Agarwal is a pediatrician in California and member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Immigrant Health Special Interest Group.Imperial Valley News Center

President Trump after Meeting with Vice Chairman Kim Yong Chol of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea

Washington, DC - Remarks by President Trump after Meeting with Vice Chairman Kim Yong Chol of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea:

THE PRESIDENT: The meeting went very well. Well be meeting on June 12th in Singapore. It went very well. Its really a get-to-know-you kind of a situation.

Mike has spent two days doing this. Weve gotten to know their people very well. And we will  you people are going to have to travel because youll be in Singapore on June 12th.

And I think itll be a process. Its not  I never said it goes in one meeting. I think its going to be a process. But the relationships are building, and thats a very positive thing.

Q Mr. President, whats your sense of what the North Koreans are willing to do on the issue of denuclearization? Are they looking at it all at once?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I think they want to do that. I know they want to do that. They want other things along the line. They want to develop as a country. Thats going to happen. I have no doubt. Japan is involved, as you know. And South Korea is very much involved. Were involved in terms of getting everything. Everybody wants the United States. So were going to help in the process very much. Without us, it wouldnt happen.

But I think that you see a lot of very positive things, including with China. I think you see a lot of very positive things happening with President Xi, who has helped me quite a bit with this. So well see where it leads.

But were going to be  June 12th, well be in Singapore. It will be a beginning. I dont say and Ive never said it happens in one meeting. Youre talking about years of hostility; years of problems; years of, really, hatred between so many different nations. But I think youre going to have a very positive result in the end. Not from one meeting, but youre going to have a very positive 

Q You appeared to question their sincerity in your letter to Kim Jong Un last week. Have they gone far enough now? Do you believe theyre sincere?

THE PRESIDENT: My letter was a response to their letter. The media forgot that. You know, the media said, Oh, you had a meeting, then you cancelled. I didnt cancel the meeting. I cancelled it in response to a very tough statement. And I think were over that  totally over that. And now were going to deal, and were going to really start a process.

Were meeting with the Chairman on June 12th. And I think its probably going to be a very successful  ultimately, a successful process. Well see.

Remember what I say: We will see what we will see. But I think its going to be a process that we deserve to have. I mean, we really deserve  they want it. We think its important. And I think we would be making a big mistake if we didnt have it. I think were going to have a relationship, and it will start on June 12th.

Q What can you get done in one meeting? What can you get done on June 12th? And why do you think theyre open to denuclearization?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, this was a very good meeting. Dont forget, this was a meeting where a letter was given to me by Kim Jong Un, and that letter was a very nice letter. Oh, would you like to see what was in that letter? Would you like it?

Q Can you tell us?

THE PRESIDENT: How much? How much? How much?

Q Can you just give us a flavor of what the letter said?

THE PRESIDENT: Ah, it was a very interesting letter. And at some point I may be  it may be appropriate, and maybe Ill be able to give it to you. Maybe youll be able to see it, and maybe fairly soon.

But really, this was a letter presentation that ended up being a two-hour conversation.

Q Why did it end up going so long, sir?

THE PRESIDENT: Because we found the whole subject matter very interesting. And because I really think they want to do something. And if its possible, so do we.

Q What did he ask you (inaudible)?

THE PRESIDENT: I think all were going to do is be there on June 12th, and were going to see what happens. Mike has been dealing very well. They have a very good relationship with Mike Pompeo, our Secretary of State. It was actually very interesting because this was literally going to be the delivery of a letter, and it ended up being a two-hour conversation with the second most powerful man in North Korea.

Q Did he ask you anything about troop levels in South Korea?

THE PRESIDENT: We talked about almost everything. We talked about a lot. And we talked about sanctions.

Q (Inaudible) with Kim Jong Un yet?

THE PRESIDENT: I dont want to say that.

Q Did they agree to CVID, sir?

THE PRESIDENT: We talked about about a lot of things. We really did. But the big deal will be on June 12th. And again, its a process. It doesnt go  were not going to sign a  were not going to go in and sign something on June 12th and we never were. Were going to start a process. And I told them today, Take your time. We can go fast. We can go slowly. But I think theyd like to see something happen. And if we can work that out, that will be good. But the process will begin on June 12th in Singapore.

Q Do you believe Kim is committed to denuclearization?

THE PRESIDENT: Yeah, I do think so. Hed like to see it happen. He wants to be careful. He wants to be, you know  hes not going to run and do things. But I told him, to be honest with you, look, we have sanctions on; theyre very powerful sanctions. We would not take sanctions off unless they did that. But the sanctions are very powerful. Youve seen how powerful in other ways. Youre going to see how powerful sanctions are when it comes to Iran. You see what thats doing to Iran.

So we have sanctions on. And at a certain point, Ill tell you what, I look forward to the day when I can take the sanctions off of North Korea.

Q Did you talk about human rights today? And do you expect to talk about it on 

THE PRESIDENT: We did not talk about human rights, no.

Q Do you expect to talk about it on June 12th?

THE PRESIDENT: Could be. Yeah. Could be. I think we probably will, and maybe in great detail. We did not talk about human rights.

Q Did you talk about sanctions? Did they ask you to make any changes?

THE PRESIDENT: Yeah, we did. We talked about it. Yes, they asked about sanctions.

Q Is maximum pressure over, sir?

THE PRESIDENT: Excuse me?

Q Is maximum pressure over, sir?

THE PRESIDENT: Its going to remain what it is now. I dont even want to use the term maximum pressure anymore because I dont want to use that term because were getting along. You see the relationship. Were getting along.

So its not a question of maximum pressure. Its staying essentially the way it is. At some point, hopefully, a deal  for the good of millions of people, a deal will be worked out.

Q Mr. President, how would you describe the state of relations now between the United States and North Korea after your meetings today?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I think theyre okay. I mean, I think theyre good. Is it like the relationships we have with a couple of other countries? Probably not. Right? But I think the relationship we have right now with North Korea is as good as its been in a long time.

They had no relationship under the previous administration. There was nothing. It was nothing. They were explaining, it was just a nothing. Nothing was done.

Hey, folks, this should not be up to me. This should have been handled a long time ago. This got to a very critical point. This should have been handled many years ago  not only by President Obama, but by other Presidents that preceded me. This shouldnt be done now, this should have been done years ago.

Q Do you plan to offer the North Koreans economic aid at the June 12th summit?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, whats going to happen is South Korea will do that. No, I dont think the United States is going to have to spend. I think South Korea will do it. I think China  I think, frankly, China will help out.

I think that Japan will help out. No, I dont see the United States spending a lot of money. You know, we have three hostages. How much money did I spend for the hostages?

And, look, were very far away. We are very far away. Those places are very close. Its their neighborhood. Were thousands  were 6,000 miles away. So Ive already told South Korea, I said, You know, youre going to have to get ready. And Japan, also.

And I think they really want to see something great happen. Japan does, South Korea does, and I think China does. But thats their neighborhood; its not our neighborhood.

Q Mr. President, yesterday you were concerned about the meeting that Lavrov was having with Kim Jong Un.

THE PRESIDENT: Yeah, I didnt like it.

Q Where are you on that today?

THE PRESIDENT: I didnt like it, but it could be very positive, too.

I didnt like the Russian meeting yesterday. I said, Whats the purpose of that? But, it could be a positive meeting. If its a positive meeting, I love it. If its a negative meeting, Im not happy. And it could very well be a positive meeting.

Q Are you willing to end the South Korean War on June 12th, during the summit?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, we could  that could happen. That could happen. We talked about it.

Q Tell us more.

THE PRESIDENT: We talked about ending the war. And you know, this war has been going on  its got to be the longest war  almost 70 years, right? And there is a possibility of something like that. Thats more of a signing of a document that its very important in one way. Historically, its very important. But well see.

And we did discuss that  the ending of the Korean War. Can you believe that were talking about the ending of the Korean War? Youre talking about 70 years.

Q Has that document been prepared? Or is it being prepared?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, were going to discuss it prior to the meeting. Thats something that could come out of the meeting. I think, really, theres something that maybe could come out of the meeting.

Q Wheres China on that?

THE PRESIDENT: I think China would like to see a very positive result. I have a lot of good relations with, as you know, Chairman Xi. Hes a great  hes really a very wonderful guy. Hes a man that loves China. However, he wants to do whats best for China. I think China and President Xi would love to see something happen here.

Q When you say youre going to guarantee Kims security, and the North Korean regimes security, how will you do that? How would the United States do that?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, were going to make sure its secure. Were going to make sure when this is over, its over. Its not going to be starting up again.

And they have a potential to be a great country. And I think South Korea is going to help a lot. Japan is going to help a lot. I think China is going to help a lot.

Q How do you envision that working, though?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, thats a very complicated question, frankly, but youll see that over a period of time.

Q When you gave your speech in Seoul last November, you talked about the bright promise if North Korea should choose to join the company of nations. But if you leave Kim in place, can you really have a transformation like that?

THE PRESIDENT: I really think you can. And I think its going to be very successful. Theyre incredible people. I think its going to be a very great success. So well see what happens.

But well see you  we will see you on June 12th, but Im sure well see you a little bit before that. In the meantime, how is Sarah doing? Okay? (Laughter.)

Q Have you discussed dates for a second or a third summit?

THE PRESIDENT: The  which one?

Q Did you discuss dates for a second or a third meeting?

THE PRESIDENT: I told them, I think that youre going to have, probably, others. Hey, wouldnt it be wonderful if we walked out and everything was settled all of a sudden from sitting down for a couple of hours? No, I dont see that happening. But I see over a period of time.

And frankly, I said, Take your time. Take your time. Its going to remain as is, but take your time.

One thing I did do, and it was very important, we had hundreds of new sanctions ready to go on. And he did not  the director did not ask, but I said Im not going to put them on until such time as the talks break down.

We have very significant sanctions on now. But we had hundreds  we have hundreds that are ready to go. But I said, Im not going to. But why would I do that when were talking so nicely?

Q Is this first meeting more of a personal diplomacy, part of your getting to know you 

THE PRESIDENT: I think its a getting to know you meeting, plus. And that can be a very positive thing.

Q Mr. President, what was your response to the letter? Did you send anything back?

THE PRESIDENT: No, I didnt. I havent seen the letter yet. I purposely didnt open the letter. I havent opened it. I didnt open it in front of the director.

I said, Would you want me to open it? He said, You can read it later. I may be in for a big surprise, folks. (Laughter.) So long, everybody. Q Whats the next move on NAFTA, sir?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, NAFTA  look, its been a terrible deal for the United States. People are starting to see it. We lose over $100 billion a year with Mexico. We lose many, many, many billions of dollars with Canada. Canada doesnt take  I mean, theyre very restrictive as to taking our agricultural product, and other things.

And, you know, all of these countries, including the European Union, they charge five times the tariff. We dont charge tariffs, essentially. They charge five times what we charge for tariffs. And I believe in the word reciprocal. Youre going to charge five times? Were going to charge five times. That hasnt been done. No other President ever brought it up. And its going to be done now.

So were negotiating numerous deals. Were talking about NAFTA. To be honest with you, I wouldnt see NAFTA  I wouldnt mind seeing NAFTA, where youd go by a different name, where you make a separate deal with Canada and a separate deal with Mexico because youre talking about a very different two countries.

But I wouldnt mind seeing a separate deal with Canada, where you have one type of product, so to speak, and a separate deal with Mexico.

These are two very difficult countries. Its been a lousy deal for the United States from day one. We lose a lot of money with Canada, and we lose a fortune with Mexico. And its not going to happen like that anymore.

I mean, Mexico has taken our car companies, a big percentage of them. And we cant do that. And, look, the American worker agrees with me. Obviously, the stock market agrees because when you look at whats going on with the stocks, theyre starting to see Im right.

But if you take the European Union and you see the kind of tariff they charge, and then we dont, thats called, not fair trade. I want fair trade. I like free trade, but I want fair trade. At a minimum, I want fair trade.

And were going to have it for our workers and for our companies. And you know what? The other side understands it.

To be honest with you, they cannot believe that theyve gotten away with this for so many decades.

Q Canada, the UK, some of our closest allies are complaining long and loud about these new tariffs. What do you say to them?

THE PRESIDENT: Theyre our allies but they take advantage of us economically. And so I agree  I love Canada. I love Mexico. I love them. But Mexico is making over $100 billion a year and theyre not helping us with our border because they have strong laws and we have horrible laws. We have horrible border laws. They have strong  they could solve our border problem if they wanted, but they dont want to. And when they want to, then Ill be happy.

But I think we have a good chance of doing some great trade deals, and well make America great again. Right? Thats what were doing. But America has picked up  weve made about $8 trillion in value since  you know, were double the size of the economy of China. Weve picked up a lot of value, a lot of wealth, since Ive been President. More than $8 trillion. And thats a very low number because were talking stock market wealth. Im talking about beyond that.

Our companies are doing great, were doing great, our military is rebuilding. We have a lot of great things going. Were going to straighten out trade. The trade is going to be easy.

And other countries understand. You know, when I talk to them, they look at me  and this is in closed doors, not for you people  and they essentially say, We cant believe weve gotten away with this for so long. Its like, you guys cant believe youve gotten away with it for so long.

Q (Inaudible.)

THE PRESIDENT: I want everyone to watch. Because Ill tell you what, we have such a great country. Right now, at this level, I dont think weve ever been, on an economic scale  you look at the numbers: 3.8 percent. We have the lowest numbers of unemployment that weve had  is it 50 years? I think its 50. Fifty years, right? So we have the best  we have some of the best economic numbers weve ever had as a nation. And that goes a long way. And were building something very special. Just remember, were twice the size  our economy  twice the size of China.

Good meeting today. I think its a great start.

Q Whats on the agenda for Camp David?

THE PRESIDENT: Just a little relaxation and a lot of work. We have a lot of calls set up. Im calling a lot of the foreign leaders. Im negotiating trade deals. Im working. Im working hard for you people.

Have a good time. Thank you.Imperial Valley News Center

29th Anniversary of Tiananmen Square

Washington, DC - Secretary of State Mike Pompeo: "On the 29th anniversary of the violent suppression of peaceful demonstrations in and around Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989, we remember the tragic loss of innocent lives.

"As Liu Xiaobo wrote in his 2010 Nobel Peace Prize speech, delivered in absentia, the ghosts of June 4th have not yet been laid to rest.



"We join others in the international community in urging the Chinese government to make a full public accounting of those killed, detained or missing; to release those who have been jailed for striving to keep the memory of Tiananmen Square alive; and to end the continued harassment of demonstration participants and their families.



"The United States views the protection of human rights as a fundamental duty of all countries, and we urge the Chinese government to respect the universal rights and fundamental freedoms of all citizens."The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library needs help

Washington, DC - Abraham Lincoln ranked at the top of the 2018 Presidential Greatness Survey. But, says Dan Weber, president of the Association of Mature American Citizens, perhaps Mr. Lincoln is not popular enough to merit funding the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and that is a shame.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Foundation recently issued a statement saying that it needs nearly $10 million to pay off its debt. If it cant raise the funds, the Foundation says it may have to sell off unique artifacts on the private market which would likely remove them from public view forever.

Weber says that the Foundation borrowed $25 million to purchase a large collection of objects relating to Lincoln. These include the 16th presidents iconic stovepipe hat as well as the bloody gloves he wore the night he was killed. They are on display at the Lincoln museum in Springfield, IL alongside the Gettysburg Address, a signed copy of the Emancipation Proclamation and many other irreplaceable items.

Dr. Carla Knorowski, the Lincoln Foundations CEO, has made an appeal for help noting Abraham Lincoln has held iconic status for more than 150 years. His image, which is in the public domain, is recognizable and used with impunity. He has been used to sell everything from perfume to carpeting, automobiles to insurance. And yet many, certainly not all, who profit off him, never seek to donate philanthropically to advance his legacy.

Weber says that the library and museum complex, which opened in 2005, attracts as many as 300,000 visitors a year. If that many people donated less than $35 apiece over the next year and a half, the debt would be paid off in full.LGBTI Pride Month

Washington, DC - Secretary of State Mike Pompeo: "The United States joins people around the world in celebrating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex (LGBTI) Pride Month, and reaffirms its commitment to protecting and defending the human rights of all, including LGBTI persons.

"In many parts of the world, LGBTI individuals and their supporters continue to face violence, arrest, harassment and intimidation for standing up for their human rights, participating in peaceful marches and rallies, expressing their views, and simply being who they are. LGBTI persons  like all persons  must be free to enjoy their human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association, without fear of reprisal. As Americans, we place a high value on these rights and freedoms, which all persons deserve to enjoy fully and equally.

"The United States stands firmly with you as you exercise your human rights and fundamental freedoms. We wish you a safe and happy Pride Month."Absurdly Driven looks at the world of business with a skeptical eye and a firmly rooted tongue in cheek.

You can never be sure of people.

Every time you are, they'll go and do something that confounds you. Upsets you, even.

Sometimes, they can delight you, too. It's always wise, then, to allow for their whims.

I'm therefore concerned about a pronouncement this week from Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian.

Just like many an important executive, he imparted his wisdom at the Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference last week.

And, as Skift reports, he was in a bullish mood.

Profits are marvelous and rising fuel prices, well, those will hurt the cheaper airlines more than they will Delta.

Actually, talking of cheaper airlines, one of Bastian's estimations entered my mind and won't leave.

"Customers that travel on those ultra low-cost carriers are people that otherwise would not be flying. They take their traffic from the couch into the airplane or whatnot," said Bastian.

He was specifically referring to the likes of Norwegian Air and Wow, airlines that are launching a little assault on transatlantic air travel.

Many passengers enjoy the fact that these airlines' fares are cheaper, even if they might have to pay for startling basics.

Why, then, wouldn't Bastian want to impress these flyers with Delta's alleged value, rather than seeming to dismiss them, almost Leona Helmsley-style, as not his sort of people?

Perhaps they can't afford Delta right now, but what if they win the lottery?

And perhaps they really can afford Delta.

After all, the airline has started offering the dreaded Sub-Cattle Class -- aka Basic Economy -- on transatlantic flights.

In case you think Bastian wasn't entirely being dismissive, he did add: "You'll always have sources of people trying to come into that market in terms of the ultra low-cost guys. But again, we're not looking for those customers."

Ah. Oh.

Bastian presides over an airline to which American and United constantly aspire.

Delta's customers tend to say nicer things about the airline that do American's and United's about their carriers.

But to snort at these upstart airlines may not be to understand how people's perceptions of flying are changing.

Yes, it might appear that the likes of Norwegian and Wow currently cater more to budget leisure travelers than to bloated business sorts.While the world hunted for streams of Kanye Wests new album, ye, following the Wyoming listening party, the rapper sat down with American radio host Big Boy for a candid interview.

Over the course of 10 minutes, the duo touched on everything from Wests mental condition to the creation of the album, his eighth studio record.

The first notable talking point was Kanye saying that the record initially sounded completely different, deciding to scrap everything to find something that matched his energy.

On the album title, West said: I believe ye is the most commonly used word in the bible, and in the bible it means you. So, Im you. Im us. It went from Kanye, being the only one, to ye being a reflection of our good, our bad, our confused. A reflection of who we are.

Speaking about the infamous TMZ interview where West said slavery was a choice, the artist said he redid the entire album following the outburst.

'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes Show all 10 1 /10 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "I was the best new artist this year" Kanye asserted this after losing the New Artist of the Year award at the 2004 American Music Awards Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes I am the number one human being in music. That means any person that's living or breathing is number two. Kanye made this claim while appearing on the Wendy Williams show in 2007. He had recently released the album 'Graduation' to critical acclaim Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes Yo Taylor, I'm really happy for you, I'mma let you finish, but Beyonce has one of the best videos of all time. One of the best videos of all time! In arguably the most famous incident of his career, Kanye bravely stole the microphone from then 19 year old Taylor Swift during her acceptance speech for the Female Music Video of the Year at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards REUTERS 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "I walk through the hotel and I walk down the street and people look at me... like I'm Hitler" Kanye said this during a mid-set rant while on stage at the Big Chill festival in 2011. Despite releasing the acclaimed 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy' in 2010, he was still widely disliked following the Taylor Swift incident PA Archive/PA Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "I am Picasso. I am Michelangelo. I am Basquiat. I am Walt Disney. I am Steve Jobs" Kanye compared himself to these visionaries in a mid-set rant on stage in Paris, 2013 AFP/Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes My greatest pain in life is that I will never be able to see myself perform live. In 2013, Kanye opened up to reveal more Kanye. His pain is understandable, considering such performances as his at the BRITs in 2015, where he came on stage with an entourage of flamethrower wielding grime artists (pictured) Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes I have to dress Kim everyday so she doesnt embarrass me. Kanye tweeted this in 2014, around the time that he was designing the first Yeezy range AFP/Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes By 50 percent [I am more influential than] Stanley Kubrick, Apostle Paul, Picasso f***ing Picasso and Escobar. By 50 per cent more influential than any other human being. Kanye made this claim backstage after appearing on Saturday Night Live in 2016, he did not show his working out Getty Images for Yeezy Season 3 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "My wife just called me and she wanted me to make this clear to everyone. I don't agree with everything Trump does. I don't agree 100% with anyone but myself." This quote followed Kanye's recent expression of love for Donald Trump on Twitter, in which he claimed that he and Trump were "dragon energy" Getty Images 'Imma let you finish' - Kanye West's most controversial quotes "When you hear about slavery for 400 years... for 400 years? That sounds like a choice." Kanye made this comment in a May 2018 interview with TMZ. He later clarified that, in saying slavery was a choice, he meant "we can make our own reality" PA Wire/PA Images

I just sat there and really honed in the words, he told the DJ. Every bar can be used [as a headline]. We even had bars about that on the album. I took it out. It was just too sensitive about that topic. I thought lets just chill and make some music.

Asked about music being an outlet for expression, West was candid speaking about his own mental health.

He said: Im so blessed and so privileged because think about people that have mental issues that are not Kanye West, that cant go and make that [album] and make you feel like its all good. Think about someone who does exactly what I did at TMZ and they just do that at work. On Tuesday morning, they come in and they just lost their job. And they cant go back and do that.

Thats why God put that on me at 40. Ive never been diagnosed and I was like 39 years old, West continued, clarifying he has been diagnosed with a mental condition.

Enjoy unlimited access to 70 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up

Everybody got something, West concluded. But, its like I said on the album, its not a disability but a superpower. Watch the full interview below.

Wests new album has received mixed reviews; read a roundup of the initial critical consensus here.Johan Lolos had the idea for the Peaks of Europe project in the autumn of 2016, after spending the three previous summers exploring and photographing places that were far away from Belgium, where he lives. His book is not a traditional landscape photography book. It's the result of a five-month adventure across 17 countries, told through the lens of a European travel photographer who took 29 years to finally explore the continent on which he was born.

'When I started taking photos, initially as a backpacker spending two years travelling around Australia and New Zealand, I really had no idea that Europe had so much to offer in terms of landscape and diversity. As an inexperienced traveller, I thought I needed to travel to the other side of the planet to see some unique scenery and experience some unforgettable road trip vibes. It took me years to figure out that my hometown Liege is less than a days drive away from the most beautiful mountains in the world  the Alps.

Landmannalaugar, Iceland (Johan Lolos)

'As soon as I realised this, I started to list all the places in Europe I would like to visit during the summer months. I had taken some road trips in the past, but they were never longer than three months, which I always considered just the right amount of time. Not too long, not too short, just what I needed before I started to miss home. However, three months didn't seem long enough to explore most of the continent, and this time I really wanted to challenge myself.

'I used my Instagram stories to post a series of 20 photos every day, documenting what happened the previous day. My followers really appreciated the authenticity of what I posted, which inspired me to combine the best of these 145 daily series in a book. Peaks of Europe is essentially a travel diary, a continuation of the daily InstaStories I published last summer.

Peaks of Europe Show all 35 1 /35 Peaks of Europe Peaks of Europe Fjallbak, Iceland Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Landmannalaugar, Iceland Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Seceda, Italy Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Bridge of Orchy Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Porsmork, Iceland Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Lago di Braies, Italy Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Val d'Herens, Switzerland Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Lac de Pormenaz, France Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Haifoss, Iceland Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Lotschental, Switzerland Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Soca, Slovenia Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Matterhorn, Switzerland Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Greina Plateua, Switzerland Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Eibsee, Germany Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Gerold, Germany Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Alpbachtal, Austria Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Innsbruck, Austria Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Aiguille du Midi, France Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Goau Pass, Italy Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Sommaroya, Norway Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Meteora, Greece Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Bajram Curri, Albania Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Lykos, Greece Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Giau Pass, Italy Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Logar Valley, Slovenia Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Plitvice Lakes, Croatia Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Durmitoor National Park, Montenegro Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Elafonisos, Greece Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Sassen-Bunsow, Svalbard Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Theth, Albania Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Kyparissia, Greece Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Ryten, Norway Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe Johan Lolos Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo Peaks of Europe Peaks of Europe is a photobook by Johan Lolos. Published by Lannoo

'The one thing I realised during this is that its not the places and destinations you go to that make your trip successful or memorable. Its the people you get to share it with.'

More than 200 photos take you through three major regions of Europe: the North, the Balkans and the Alps. From the Arctic island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, to Crete, Peaks of Europe showcases the large variety of landscapes that makes Europe so diverse and unique.

Peaks of Europe by Johan Lolos and Lannoo Publishers is available to purchase onlineThe shiny flythrough concept video for Foster + Partners new project, the master plan of an entire city in India, depicts a sustainable Utopia: an urban sprawl where there is a place for everything; an area that is meticulously planned to marry together both magnificent architecture and nature. Square blocks and quadrants with clay coloured buildings paint a pretty pattern on the computer generated tree-heavy landscape  the birds eye view looks more like a tapestry than a city.

Running through the middle of Amaravati is a long, straight park containing the firms crowning centrepiece, a needle-like building which will host the central government of the western state of Andhra Pradesh; the building that is already featuring prominently on citys branding  with the A in Amaravati resembling the structure, accompanied by the slogan the peoples capital.

Located by the river Krishna, the city will occupy 217sq km, with 60 per cent to be dedicated to either green spaces or water; lakes and rivers strategically interweaving throughout the city to provide an abundant supply of fresh water to inhabitants.

Recommended Kanye West is branching out into architecture

With cycle paths, water taxis, electric-car routes and shaded pathways to encourage people to walk, Amaravati is being heralded as one of the worlds first truly sustainable cities, with Norman Foster himself describing the project on a visit to the area last week as a design that brings together our decades-long research into sustainable cities, incorporating the latest technologies that are currently being developed in India.

The responsibility and indeed the creative freedom of Amaravati could make this one of the firms biggest and most ambitious projects to date. It was first reported that Norman Fosters practice was awarded the project in January last year, after being invited to submit a design for just the central building; it was in December that Andhra Pradesh chief minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu hinted that the London-based firms role would be much bigger.

The official proposals revealed last week, which alluded to the ambitious scale of Amaravati, were met with trepidation from those in the region. News of purpose-built developments is regularly accompanied by dubious quote-marked headlines and images of the current state of the area, and the massive cost that will be incurred.

Amaravati, for example, is set to cost $15bn (11.2bn) to erect, with local news organisations commenting on the painfully slow progression in enacting the plans; the current village of Amaravati comprising half-finished civic projects and dusty farmlands, most, as reported by NDTV, connected by primitive dirt roads.

The plans for Amaravati began in 2014, with ministers claiming that the city could have 3.5 million dwellers in five years. Three years after Indian president Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the citys government building, little work has commenced in the area beyond the planning stage, and locals believe the extravagant plans tabled by Foster + Partners signify a lack of action on the part of the local government.

Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Show all 8 1 /8 Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners Foster + Partners new city master plan: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh Foster + Partners

K Nageshwar, an independent legislator in the neighbouring state of Telangana, told reporters: Nothing much has happened on the ground in Amaravati. It is still more dream than reality.

So will Norman Fosters sustainable dream ever come to fruition?

Looking at his firms track record, its success in civic projects is unquestionable. It holds the much-heralded renovation of the Reichstag in Berlin, with a reimagined glass dome in its centre, and has set the bar for designing government spaces. Its work on Kazakhstans Nazarbayev Centre has made it one of the capital Astanas most recognisable landmarks, containing the countys biggest library and archive as well as a public forum.

In the UK Fosters renovation of the Treasury building has been considered as a template for the remodelling of the Houses of Parliament, in creating an efficient working space within the Victorian buildings narrow halls and labyrinth offices.

Foster + Partners ability to create dynamic government buildings might not necessarily give it the edge in pulling off a lavish, large-scale project like Amaravati, though it does seem to be corresponding with a trend in the architecture world: moving away from isolated structures and into master planning larger areas.

Zaha Hadid Architects for example has signed on to a number of master projects  including the design of a cruise ship terminal in Tallinn, Estonia. Haptic and Nordic Architects are teaming up to build a sustainable green city near Oslo Airport, and Frank Gehry has been chosen to spearhead the rejuvenation of the much-maligned LA river complex.

Weve seen more outlandish master plan proposals being embraced by the architecture world too: Mexican-American architect Fernando Romero took home the top prize at the London Design Biennale in 2016 for his proposed city beyond borders, a city state that would sit on the border of the US and Mexico, as a response to Donald Trumps proposed border wall.

Yes, traditionally, the way to go about city planning usually rests in smaller individual projects, but many larger plans have been huge successes. For example the rebirth of Kings Cross is one of Londons most ambitious projects ever, and has been heralded favourably, even attracting investment for a new Google HQ and a series of art galleries. The rejuvenation of Manchester, in particular planning by architects Urban Splash, has been hailed a success by both Mancunians and designers. Internationally, San Francisco, Chicago and Berlin have transformed run down factory-filled spaces into shiny new developments.

However, these are developments in cities that already exist, and designers and city planners already understood what residents needed from their public spaces. Foster + Partners instead is taking on the daunting task of building a city out of nothing, and these types of projects are very rarely success stories.

Brasilia, perhaps the worlds most famous purpose-built city, is best known not for its stunning architecture by Oscar Niemeyer but for how empty it is; what was intended to be a city with the ability to accommodate millions instead hosted just thousands.

Ricky Burdett, professor of urban studies at the London School of Economics, told the BBC World Service in 2010: The problem with Brasilia as with anything new is that it has some weaknesses.

The problem is that its not a city. Its that simple. The issue is not whether its a good city or a bad city. Its just not a city. It doesnt have the ingredients of a city: messy streets, people living above shops, and offices nearby.

The legacy of Brasilia is one that cant be ignored by architects who are tasked with urban planning. Though there have been a few success stories, Washington DC and Saint Petersburg are both purpose-built, with extended development and settling coming later, establishing them as two of the worlds most iconic cities. Even New Delhi was purpose-built initially to be the capital of India, after a move from Kolkata in 1912.

More recently Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan designed by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, has had a number of exciting developments: its reputation for other-worldly architecture and geometric streets has made it a hot new destination for tourism, with Lonely Planet labelling it the Singapore of the steppe. Though plans had initially put the population growth within the city to over a million by 2030, by the beginning of 2018 it had already exceeded that  making it one of the worlds fastest growing cities.

Fosters + Partners plans depict a city of magnificent architecture and planned sustainability, but it may need to learn from the past mistakes of other purpose-built cities and listen to potential residents  or see its green utopia remain an empty shell.This year's British Soap Awards saw Coronation Street win the top accolade of "Best British Soap" and take home a total of six awards.

Television stars came out in their droves to attend the extravagant event, which celebrated its 20th year.

Before Phillip Schofield began his duties as host of the night, an array of lavishly-dressed individuals made their way down the red carpet of Hackney Empire.

Recommended All the winners and losers from the British Soap Awards 2018

Celebrities such as Sophie Porley and Hedydd Dyla opted to match the red carpet in scarlet gowns, while others such as Bhavna Limbachia and Jennie McAlpine chose to go for chic, black ensembles.

While some of the male attendees decided to keep their suits simple, others such as Zack Morris and Shaheen Jafargholi decided to stand out by donning vibrant jackets.

Hollyoaks actress Lysette Anthony paid tribute to the #MeToo movement by displaying the hashtag written on her wrist on the night.

Here are the best dressed stars at this year's British Soap Awards:

Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Show all 45 1 /45 Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Amanda Clapham attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Rachel Adedeji attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Anna Passey attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Zack Morris attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Tamara Wall attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Stephanie Waring attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Bhavna Limbachia attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Diane Parish attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Rory Douglas-Speed attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Victoria Ekanoye attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Shaheen Jafargholi attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Maggie Oliver attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Navin Kundra attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Sandra Marvin attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Sair Khan attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Lizzie Stavrou attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Rishi Nair attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Nadine Mulkerrin attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Lauren McQueen attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Ned Porteous attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Nathan Sussex attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Lysette Anthony attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Louisa Clein attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Jennie McAlpine attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Jessica Ellis attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Lorraine Stanley attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Chelsee Healey attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Kellie Bright attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Krupa Pattani attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Kirsty-Leigh Porter attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Harry Visinoni attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Jacqueline Jossa attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Jacqueline Boatswain attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Cherylee Houston attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Hedydd Dylan attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Harvey Virdi attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Haiesha Mistry attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Gillian Taylforth attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Georgia Horsley and Danny Jones attend the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Fleur Keith attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Emma Atkins attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Daisy Wood-Davis attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Ashley James attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Alexandra Fletcher attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images Best-dressed TV stars on the British Soap Awards red carpet Adam Woodward attends the British Soap Awards 2018 at Hackney Empire on June 2, 2018 in London, England Getty Images

Anthony spoke to Press Association before the awards ceremony started about the trial of Harvey Weinstein, against whom she has made an allegation of sexual assault.

She stated: Time is up  what Im happy about is that it stops being trial by Twitter and justice gets due course.

"Its what its all about, its all any of us, weve ever wanted. Im telling the truth, but he needs the chance to be tried.

Weinstein plans to deny all charges against him, his lawyer has said.

Recommended Game of Thrones casts EastEnders star in season 8 role

Jessica Ellis wore a purple dress with a rainbow cape attached, to coincide with Pride Month this June.

Coronation Street obtained the most awards at the British Soap Awards, with Hollyoaks coming in a close second with five wins.

EastEnders won three awards, including the prize for "Outstanding Achievement" for actor Rudolph Walker.

Emmerdale ended the night with two awards, while Doctors tied with EastEnders for a joint victory for "Scene of the Year".Googles decision to ban all bitcoin and cryptocurrency adverts on its platforms is ill-thought-out and potentially even unethical, according to industry experts.

The new policy, which comes into effect this month, follows similar bans from Facebook and Twitter.

Google announced the ban in a blogpost in March, stating: Ads for the following will no longer be allowed to serve  Cryptocurrencies and related content (including but not limited to initial coin offerings, cryptocurrency exchanges, cryptocurrency wallets, and cryptocurrency trading advice.

Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Satoshi Nakamoto creates the first bitcoin block in 2009 On 3 January, 2009, the genesis block of bitcoin appeared. It came less than a year after the pseudonymous creator Satoshi Nakamoto detailed the cryptocurrency in a paper titled 'Bitcoin: A peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System' Reuters Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin is used as a currency for the first time On 22 May, 2010, the first ever real-world bitcoin transaction took place. Lazlo Hanyecz bought two pizzas for 10,000 bitcoins  the equivalent of $90 million at today's prices Lazlo Hanyecz Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Silk Road opens for business Bitcoin soon gained notoriety for its use on the dark web. The Silk Road marketplace, established in 2011, was the first of hundreds of sites to offer illegal drugs and services in exchange for bitcoin Screenshot Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures The first bitcoin ATM appears On 29 October, 2013, the first ever bitcoin ATM was installed in a coffee shop in Vancouver, Canada. The machine allowed people to exchange bitcoins for cash Reuters Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures The fall of MtGox The world's biggest bitcoin exchange, MtGox, filed for bankruptcy in February 2014 after losing almost 750,000 of its customers bitcoins. At the time, this was around 7 per cent of all bitcoins and the market inevitably crashed Getty Images Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Would the real Satoshi Nakamoto please stand up In 2015, Australian police raided the home of Craig Wright after the entrepreneur claimed he was Satoshi Nakamoto. He later rescinded the claim Getty Images Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin's big split On 1 August, 2017, an unresolvable dispute within the bitcoin community saw the network split. The fork of bitcoin's underlying blockchain technology spawned a new cryptocurrency: Bitcoin cash Reuters Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin's price sky rockets Towards the end of 2017, the price of bitcoin surged to almost $20,000. This represented a 1,300 per cent increase from its price at the start of the year Reuters Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures What goes up... Bitcoin price crashes spectacularly, losing half of its value in a matter of days Getty Images Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin plunges The cryptocurrency eventually bottoms out below $4,000 in 2019 before slowly rebuilding momentum to outperform more traditional assets Getty Images

Both Google and Facebook have recently revealed their interest in cryptocurrencies and their underlying blockchain technology, leading to speculation that the advert ban is not solely motivated by a desire to confront criminality.

I understand that Facebook and Google are under a lot of pressure to regulate what their users are reading, but they are still advertising gambling websites and other unethical practices, Phillip Nunn, CEO of Manchester-based investment firm Blackmore Group, told The Independent.

I suspect the ban has been implemented to fit in with potential plans to introduce their own cryptocurrency to the market in the near future and therefore removing other crypto adverts allows them to do it on their own terms.

In May, Google reportedly approached the founder of ethereum  the worlds second most valuable cryptocurrency in terms of market capitalisation  in the hope of potentially securing his services.

A Google spokesperson declined to comment on either the ban or speculation surrounding its cryptocurrency and blockchain ambitions, however a spokesperson told Business Insider in March that it was looking into the technology.

Like many new technologies, we have individuals in various teams exploring potential use of blockchain, but its too early for us to speculate about any possible uses or plans, the spokesperson said.

Facebook also hinted at its blockchain ambitions in May, as it announced the biggest management reshuffle in its history.

Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg has previously expressed interest in cryptocurrency and the blockchain technology that bitcoin popularised (AFP/Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

David Marcus, the former head of Facebook Messenger, announced that he will lead an exploratory blockchain group that will report directly to the companys CTO, Mike Schroepfer.

Facebooks attempts to block adverts promoting anything related to cryptocurrencies faced difficulties when its new policy was introduced in January, with marketers using simple tricks to circumvent it.

For example, words like cryptocurrency were abbreviated to c-currency and the letter o in the word bitcoin was switched to a zero.

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The blanket ban by Google is self-imposed and follows a pattern of large tech platforms pre-empting regulatory bodies by policing their own platforms.

As cryptocurrencies have become more popular, scammers are increasingly using Facebook and Google to promote shady cryptocurrencies and exchanges and defraud customers.

Recent research into initial coin offerings (ICO)  the process of selling units of a cryptocurrency ahead of its launch  found that as many as 80 per cent of ICOs were fraudulent.

Clamping down specifically on these types of adverts is seen as a positive thing, as the proliferation of these adverts hurts the perception of the space in general. However, the nature of the ban is seen as unfairly targeting this emerging industry.

Adverts for bitcoin, litecoin, ripple, ethereum and other cryptocurrencies will be banned on Google platforms from this month (Getty) (Getty Images)

Unfortunately, the fact that this ban is a blanket ban will mean that legitimate cryptocurrency businesses which provide valuable services to users will be unfairly caught in the crossfire, Ed Cooper, head of mobile at digital banking startup Revolut, told The Independent.

A more targeted approach would definitely be preferable: it would seem heavy handed for example to put a blanket ban on all ads for job postings, anti-virus software or charities just because ads for these products and service are also sometimes used as an entry point by scammers to target consumers.

Gareth Malna, a fintech solicitor at the UK law firm Burges Salmon, goes as far as to suggest that Googles ban contradicts the very purpose of the worlds largest search engine.

The decision by Google to act as a quasi-regulator in this context is a potentially troubling development given its vast commercial power, Mr Malna said.

For Google to step in and block that market may sound like consumer protection, but is potentially overstepping its perceived role as gatekeeper to information.Facebook is discontinuing its troubled "trending" section, the social network has announced.

The section, which launched in 2014, was designed to help people quickly find interesting topics on Facebook.

But Alex Hardiman, the company's head of news products, said in a blog post that users were shifting to consuming news on their phones and through video.

"So we're exploring new ways to help people stay informed about timely, breaking news that matters to them, while making sure the news they see on Facebook is from trustworthy and quality sources," she said.

The trending section had been a headache for the company. It amassed notoriety in 2016 after a report that detailed allegations of the trending team suppressing conservative news.

The backlash from conservatives led Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg to extend an olive branch, holding a meeting at his company headquarters with more than two dozen conservative figures including Glenn Beck, Dana Perino and Tucker Carlson. Facebook eventually fired the editors on the trending team, replacing them with an automated process.

But the curation of trending news in the absence of human oversight led to more embarrassment.

The algorithms promoted 9/11 conspiracy theories, a false story about then-Fox News host Megyn Kelly, and a parody news article about magical iPhone features, which some say were early indicators of Facebook's misinformation problem.

The company continued to modify the section, but Facebook said that over time it became less useful to users.

Media analysts have argued that Facebook's reaction to claims of anti-conservative bias led the company to take a more lax approach to the Russian disinformation campaign. Facebook continues to face criticism from right-leaning circles.

In recent months, Facebook has launched several initiatives to address accusations of political bias, misinformation and transparency in political advertising.

11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Show all 11 1 /11 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Clean up your News Feed Most of us are Facebook friends with some people we dont actually care about, and there are several ways to keep their updates off your News Feed. The easiest option is to head to the column on the left and open News Feed Preferences. From here, you can prioritise friends, unfollow friends, refollow friends you unfollowed in the past and even block specific apps. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Change ad preferences You can view a list of everything Facebook thinks youre into and tinker with your ad preferences. A lot more information is displayed on the desktop site than the app, so wed recommend doing this on a computer. Just open Settings and select Advert Preferences. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Manage notifications You can get notifications about pretty much anything on Facebook these days, and that can be seriously irritating. Choose what you do and dont want to be notified about by going into the Settings menu and selecting Notifications. You might be surprised by the number of sections you have to trawl through. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Save data Facebook automatically plays videos in your News Feed, and thats a problem if you arent on a generous data plan. You can change this by going to Videos in the Settings menu and disabling autoplay. On the app, theres feature in the left-hand column called Data Saver, which also does this, but reduces the size of pictures too. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Reorder your News feed You can choose to order the updates that appear in your News Feed by time or importance. Just hit the three buttons next to News Feed Preferences on the Facebook site and choose between Top Stories and Recent Stories. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Download your data Facebook lets you download all of the immense amounts of data it has on you, including the posts youve shared, your messages and photos, ads youve clicked on and even the IP addresses that are logged when you log in or out of the site. Its a lot of information, which youll want to get your hands on if you decide to quit the social network. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Find nearby places Nearby Places is actually a really handy tool, which lets you quickly find and research things like restaurants, hotels, museums and nightlife hotspots around you. It lives in the left-hand column, and also shows useful information like customer ratings, prices and distance. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Find free Wi-Fi Similarly, Find Wi-Fi is ideal for when youre bored, running low on data or lost. It shows you all the places in your vicinity that offer free Wi-Fi, so you can head over and either relax or get some work done. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Save things for later Facebooks ideal for killing time, but every now and again youll stumble across something youre interested in right as you need to put your phone away. Fortunately, you can save posts for later by hitting the arrow in the top-right corner and selecting the Save option. Everything you save goes straight to the Saved section in the left-hand column. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Control tags When people tag you in posts or pictures, they dont have to automatically appear on your profile. You can switch on Facebooks Review Tags feature by going to Settings and Timeline and Tagging. 11 useful Facebook features you didn't know existed Delete your account To permanently delete your Facebook account, you need to head to Facebooks Delete Account page. The site can take up to 90 days to process account deletion requests, but once your account's gone, its gone. You can deactivate your account instead, by going to Security and Login in the Settings menu.

The company has also been reeling from the Cambridge Analytica scandal. Lawmakers in Congress and in Europe have raised the possibility of drafting new regulations to address Facebook's privacy violations.

In Friday's announcement, Facebook also said that 80 publishers are testing a "breaking news" label that they can pin to their articles in the news feed. The company is simultaneously experimenting with a breaking-news notification, a section dedicated to breaking local news, and a video feature for American users to watch live coverage and weekly reports.

Ms Hardiman said Facebook will remove the trending section next week.Men with otherwise untreatable prostate cancer can benefit from an immune system-stimulating treatment which could help prolong their life, or even stop their cancer growth entirely, a UK trial has found.

The study, involving hundreds of men with no other treatment options, found a third were still alive a year after receiving a new immunotherapy drug, pembrolizumab.

More than one in 10 had not seen their cancer grow at all in that time and the researchers are now looking at what makes some men benefit more than others.

Immunotherapy works by kick-starting the immune system to identify cancer cells and is already in use in advanced forms of the disease, including lung cancer.

However this is the first time it has been found to be effective in prostate cancer  the third deadliest form of the disease in the UK.

The results of the trial, led by a team at the Institute of Cancer Research, London, and the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, will be presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting in Chicago.

Professor Johan de Bono, director of the drug development unit, said: In the last few years immunotherapy has changed the way we treat many advanced cancers  but up to now no one had demonstrated a benefit in men with prostate cancer.

Our study has found that immunotherapy can benefit a subset of men with advanced, otherwise untreatable prostate cancer, and these are most likely to include patients who have specific DNA repair mutations within their tumours.

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The trial of 258 men with advanced prostate cancer found they lived much longer when treated with checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab.

Around 38 per cent were still alive after a year and 11 per cent did not see the cancer grow, the results show.

Michael English, 72, was one of the men treated at the Royal Marsden in 2016 as part of the trial. He had been diagnosed more than a decade ago and has undergone all routine treatments  as well as clinical trials.

Michael English, 72, is effectively cancer free after starting pembrolizumab in 2016, 10 years after he was first diagnosed with prostate cancer (Michael English)

Genetic tests showed he would be likely to benefit from pembrolizumab, but the results were remarkable.

After only a few three-weekly cycles, we were astonished when scans showed that the tumour had become undetectable, he said.

This made it possible to surgically remove some of his other tumours and Mr English added: Today Im effectively cancer free.

Personalising my treatment in this way, based on the genetic make-up of the tumour, essentially saved my life. With a fourth grandchild on the way, my wife and I can now plan for the next 20 years, instead of the next two.

Health news in pictures Show all 40 1 /40 Health news in pictures Health news in pictures Coronavirus outbreak The coronavirus Covid-19 has hit the UK leading to the deaths of two people so far and prompting warnings from the Department of Health AFP via Getty Health news in pictures Thousands of emergency patients told to take taxi to hospital Thousands of 999 patients in England are being told to get a taxi to hospital, figures have showed. The number of patients outside London who were refused an ambulance rose by 83 per cent in the past year as demand for services grows Getty Health news in pictures Vape related deaths spike A vaping-related lung disease has claimed the lives of 11 people in the US in recent weeks. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has more than 100 officials investigating the cause of the mystery illness, and has warned citizens against smoking e-cigarette products until more is known, particularly if modified or bought off the street Getty Health news in pictures Baldness cure looks to be a step closer Researchers in the US claim to have overcome one of the major hurdles to cultivating human follicles from stem cells. The new system allows cells to grow in a structured tuft and emerge from the skin Sanford Burnham Preybs Health news in pictures Two hours a week spent in nature can improve health A study in the journal Scientific Reports suggests that a dose of nature of just two hours a week is associated with better health and psychological wellbeing Shutterstock Health news in pictures Air pollution linked to fertility issues in women Exposure to air from traffic-clogged streets could leave women with fewer years to have children, a study has found. Italian researchers found women living in the most polluted areas were three times more likely to show signs they were running low on eggs than those who lived in cleaner surroundings, potentially triggering an earlier menopause Getty/iStock Health news in pictures Junk food ads could be banned before watershed Junk food adverts on TV and online could be banned before 9pm as part of Government plans to fight the "epidemic" of childhood obesity. Plans for the new watershed have been put out for public consultation in a bid to combat the growing crisis, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said PA Health news in pictures Breeding with neanderthals helped humans fight diseases On migrating from Africa around 70,000 years ago, humans bumped into the neanderthals of Eurasia. While humans were weak to the diseases of the new lands, breeding with the resident neanderthals made for a better equipped immune system PA Health news in pictures Cancer breath test to be trialled in Britain The breath biopsy device is designed to detect cancer hallmarks in molecules exhaled by patients Getty Health news in pictures Average 10 year old has consumed the recommended amount of sugar for an adult By their 10th birthdy, children have on average already eaten more sugar than the recommended amount for an 18 year old. The average 10 year old consumes the equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day, 8 more than is recommended PA Health news in pictures Child health experts advise switching off screens an hour before bed While there is not enough evidence of harm to recommend UK-wide limits on screen use, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have advised that children should avoid screens for an hour before bed time to avoid disrupting their sleep Getty Health news in pictures Daily aspirin is unnecessary for older people in good health, study finds A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that many elderly people are taking daily aspirin to little or no avail Getty Health news in pictures Vaping could lead to cancer, US study finds A study by the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Centre has found that the carcinogenic chemicals formaldehyde, acrolein, and methylglyoxal are present in the saliva of E-cigarette users Reuters Health news in pictures More children are obese and diabetic There has been a 41% increase in children with type 2 diabetes since 2014, the National Paediatric Diabetes Audit has found. Obesity is a leading cause Reuters Health news in pictures Most child antidepressants are ineffective and can lead to suicidal thoughts The majority of antidepressants are ineffective and may be unsafe, for children and teenager with major depression, experts have warned. In what is the most comprehensive comparison of 14 commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs to date, researchers found that only one brand was more effective at relieving symptoms of depression than a placebo. Another popular drug, venlafaxine, was shown increase the risk users engaging in suicidal thoughts and attempts at suicide Getty Health news in pictures Gay, lesbian and bisexual adults at higher risk of heart disease, study claims Researchers at the Baptist Health South Florida Clinic in Miami focused on seven areas of controllable heart health and found these minority groups were particularly likely to be smokers and to have poorly controlled blood sugar iStock Health news in pictures Breakfast cereals targeted at children contain 'steadily high' sugar levels since 1992 despite producer claims A major pressure group has issued a fresh warning about perilously high amounts of sugar in breakfast cereals, specifically those designed for children, and has said that levels have barely been cut at all in the last two and a half decades Getty Health news in pictures Potholes are making us fat, NHS watchdog warns New guidance by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the body which determines what treatment the NHS should fund, said lax road repairs and car-dominated streets were contributing to the obesity epidemic by preventing members of the public from keeping active PA Health news in pictures New menopause drugs offer women relief from 'debilitating' hot flushes A new class of treatments for women going through the menopause is able to reduce numbers of debilitating hot flushes by as much as three quarters in a matter of days, a trial has found. The drug used in the trial belongs to a group known as NKB antagonists (blockers), which were developed as a treatment for schizophrenia but have been sitting on a shelf unused, according to Professor Waljit Dhillo, a professor of endocrinology and metabolism REX Health news in pictures Doctors should prescribe more antidepressants for people with mental health problems, study finds Research from Oxford University found that more than one million extra people suffering from mental health problems would benefit from being prescribed drugs and criticised ideological reasons doctors use to avoid doing so. Getty Health news in pictures Student dies of flu after NHS advice to stay at home and avoid A&E The family of a teenager who died from flu has urged people not to delay going to A&E if they are worried about their symptoms. Melissa Whiteley, an 18-year-old engineering student from Hanford in Stoke-on-Trent, fell ill at Christmas and died in hospital a month later. Just Giving Health news in pictures Government to review thousands of harmful vaginal mesh implants The Government has pledged to review tens of thousands of cases where women have been given harmful vaginal mesh implants. Getty Health news in pictures Jeremy Hunt announces 'zero suicides ambition' for the NHS The NHS will be asked to go further to prevent the deaths of patients in its care as part of a zero suicide ambition being launched today Getty Health news in pictures Human trials start with cancer treatment that primes immune system to kill off tumours Human trials have begun with a new cancer therapy that can prime the immune system to eradicate tumours. The treatment, that works similarly to a vaccine, is a combination of two existing drugs, of which tiny amounts are injected into the solid bulk of a tumour. Nephron Health news in pictures Babies' health suffers from being born near fracking sites, finds major study Mothers living within a kilometre of a fracking site were 25 per cent more likely to have a child born at low birth weight, which increase their chances of asthma, ADHD and other issues Getty Health news in pictures NHS reviewing thousands of cervical cancer smear tests after women wrongly given all-clear Thousands of cervical cancer screening results are under review after failings at a laboratory meant some women were incorrectly given the all-clear. A number of women have already been told to contact their doctors following the identification of procedural issues in the service provided by Pathology First Laboratory. Rex Health news in pictures Potential key to halting breast cancer's spread discovered by scientists Most breast cancer patients do not die from their initial tumour, but from secondary malignant growths (metastases), where cancer cells are able to enter the blood and survive to invade new sites. Asparagine, a molecule named after asparagus where it was first identified in high quantities, has now been shown to be an essential ingredient for tumour cells to gain these migratory properties. Getty Health news in pictures NHS nursing vacancies at record high with more than 34,000 roles advertised A record number of nursing and midwifery positions are currently being advertised by the NHS, with more than 34,000 positions currently vacant, according to the latest data. Demand for nurses was 19 per cent higher between July and September 2017 than the same period two years ago. REX Health news in pictures Cannabis extract could provide new class of treatment for psychosis CBD has a broadly opposite effect to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active component in cannabis and the substance that causes paranoia and anxiety. Getty Health news in pictures Over 75,000 sign petition calling for Richard Branson's Virgin Care to hand settlement money back to NHS Mr Bransons company sued the NHS last year after it lost out on an 82m contract to provide childrens health services across Surrey, citing concerns over serious flaws in the way the contract was awarded PA Health news in pictures More than 700 fewer nurses training in England in first year after NHS bursary scrapped The numbers of people accepted to study nursing in England fell 3 per cent in 2017, while the numbers accepted in Wales and Scotland, where the bursaries were kept, increased 8.4 per cent and 8 per cent respectively Getty Health news in pictures Landmark study links Tory austerity to 120,000 deaths The paper found that there were 45,000 more deaths in the first four years of Tory-led efficiencies than would have been expected if funding had stayed at pre-election levels. On this trajectory that could rise to nearly 200,000 excess deaths by the end of 2020, even with the extra funding that has been earmarked for public sector services this year. Reuters Health news in pictures Long commutes carry health risks Hours of commuting may be mind-numbingly dull, but new research shows that it might also be having an adverse effect on both your health and performance at work. Longer commutes also appear to have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, with those commuting longer 33 per cent more likely to suffer from depression Shutterstock Health news in pictures You cannot be fit and fat It is not possible to be overweight and healthy, a major new study has concluded. The study of 3.5 million Britons found that even metabolically healthy obese people are still at a higher risk of heart disease or a stroke than those with a normal weight range Getty Health news in pictures Sleep deprivation When you feel particularly exhausted, it can definitely feel like you are also lacking in brain capacity. Now, a new study has suggested this could be because chronic sleep deprivation can actually cause the brain to eat itself Shutterstock Health news in pictures Exercise classes offering 45 minute naps launch David Lloyd Gyms have launched a new health and fitness class which is essentially a bunch of people taking a nap for 45 minutes. The fitness group was spurred to launch the napercise class after research revealed 86 per cent of parents said they were fatigued. The class is therefore predominantly aimed at parents but you actually do not have to have children to take part Getty Health news in pictures 'Fundamental right to health' to be axed after Brexit, lawyers warn Tobacco and alcohol companies could win more easily in court cases such as the recent battle over plain cigarette packaging if the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is abandoned, a barrister and public health professor have said Getty Health news in pictures 'Thousands dying' due to fear over non-existent statin side-effects A major new study into the side effects of the cholesterol-lowering medicine suggests common symptoms such as muscle pain and weakness are not caused by the drugs themselves Getty Health news in pictures Babies born to fathers aged under 25 have higher risk of autism New research has found that babies born to fathers under the age of 25 or over 51 are at higher risk of developing autism and other social disorders. The study, conducted by the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai, found that these children are actually more advanced than their peers as infants, but then fall behind by the time they hit their teenage years Getty Health news in pictures Cycling to work could halve risk of cancer and heart disease Commuters who swap their car or bus pass for a bike could cut their risk of developing heart disease and cancer by almost half, new research suggests  but campaigners have warned there is still an urgent need to improve road conditions for cyclists. Cycling to work is linked to a lower risk of developing cancer by 45 per cent and cardiovascular disease by 46 per cent, according to a study of a quarter of a million people. Walking to work also brought health benefits, the University of Glasgow researchers found, but not to the same degree as cycling. Getty

Previous trials using immunotherapy in prostate cancer have been unsuccessful but the latest research examined the genetics of the tumours and found particular groups of patients may benefit.

While only 5 per cent of men in the trial saw their tumours shrink or disappear after treatment, many of those had mutations in genes involved in repairing DNA in their tumours.

The researchers suggest these mutating cancer cells may be easy for the immune system to recognise and attack because they look different from healthy cells.

Data from some other cancer types, such as bowel, has similarly shown tumours with defects in DNA repair mutations are more susceptible to immunotherapy.

 Stephen Fry announces he is recovering from prostate cancer

Professor de Bono said: We are planning a new clinical trial, specifically in men with prostate cancer whose tumours have mutations in DNA repair genes, to see if immunotherapy can become a standard part of their treatment.

Its exciting that immunotherapy could offer some men more time with their loved ones where they have such advanced disease that they have run out of existing treatment options.

Only around 20 per cent of cancer patients respond to immunotherapy  something which researchers do not fully understand why.

Professor Paul Workman, chief executive of the Institute of Cancer Research in London, said: Immunotherapy has proven to be a smarter, kinder treatment for many types of cancer  but it still only works for a minority of patients.

The challenges we now face are how to predict in advance who will benefit, and how to make immunotherapy work for more people.

Additional reporting by PAThe very idea of holding a second referendum to approve or reject the terms for leaving the European Union which Theresa May, the prime minister, secures should not in itself be a matter of controversy. As Vince Cable, the Lib Dem leader, argues, Britain could have a second EU referendum before Christmas this year, giving time for a lengthy 12-week campaign starting next September.

Nick Clegg puts a rather different argument. He says that Brexit should be put to a second referendum because people who voted Leave are dying off. The high point of support for Brexit had passed because the oldest voters voted for Brexit in the largest numbers while the young voted to remain in the EU.

My case is that the first referendum said we should leave without specifying how. In a second referendum, the government would in effect say  heres the deal we have negotiated... do you approve? What could be more logical? What could be more natural?

Nothing except that Ms May has ruled out a second Brexit referendum. In February, in a typically muddled formulation, she told a conference: We are leaving the EU and there is no question of a second referendum or going back and I think thats important. People in the UK feel very strongly that if we take a decision, then governments should turn not round and say, no, you got that wrong. But if anybody is going to say, you got that wrong, it wouldnt be the government but rather the people saying to the prime minister that she got wrong the exit terms she negotiated. That is what Ms May doesnt like about the notion of a second referendum.

In fact, there is a strong case for holding a second referendum. Since 23 June 2016, the date of the first referendum, we have learnt quite a few things we didnt know before. Business chiefs, for instance, are worried about the time-wasting bureaucracy of filling in customs declarations after Brexit takes place. That is what a hard border would mean.

As to the Brexiteers notion that technology could be used to avoid this, Jon Thompson, chief executive of HM Revenue and Customs, delivered a stark verdict when he appeared before the Treasury Committee. The cost to business of introducing a high-tech customs plan would be up to 20bn a year, he said. That is a frighteningly high price to pay.

We could have a second referendum before Christmas, believes Vince Cable (PA)

When we cast our referendum vote, we also hadnt thought about complex procedures such as car assembly. As a car chassis moves along the production line, components from all over Europe are put into their appointed places. If this is taking place in a British car plant, then many of the components will have come from the continent. If the plant is on the other side of the Channel, then many British-made parts will have had to have been shipped across. In fact, more than two-thirds of the UKs exports to the EU take the form of intermediate inputs to the production of finished goods and services. Likewise, about 55 per cent of imports from the EU represent products to be incorporated in final production in the UK. If all this were to be subject to customs clearance, then the whole series of complex procedures would come to a halt.

 Exclusive: Tony Blair puts forward his case for a second referendum on Brexit

No wonder the prospect of Brexit is already having a negative effect on economic activity. As the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, an intergovernmental economic organisation, commented this week: Economic growth is projected to remain modest at 1.4 per cent in 2018 and 1.3 per cent in 2019, owing to high uncertainties about the outcome of Brexit negotiations. This is about half the rate of growth being experienced by the rest of Europe. Did we know that Brexit would condemn Britain to reduced economic activity?

Another thing that was not realised in June 2016 is that British people are gradually becoming more relaxed about immigration. Rob Ford, a professor at the University of Manchester, argues that the public have become more positive about immigration. Far fewer see it as a major political priority and more see it as positive for Britains economy and culture. What is more, this shift is seen across the board  it isnt a case of liberal Remainers rallying behind migrants, while migrant-sceptic Leavers dig in their heels. The positive shift in attitudes seems to be occurring across the political and social spectrum. A recent Times/YouGov tracking poll, for instance, found that immigration was no longer among the most important issues troubling the nation, but was now ranked third.

The dithering in No 10 is testament to political divisions and weak leadership (Reuters) (REUTERS)

In short, we need a second referendum because we know much more about the disadvantages of leaving the European Union that we did when we were first asked. Moreover, in Ms May we have a prime minister who cannot make up her mind about anything. The Financial Times put this point strongly on 17 May: It has been 693 days since Britain voted to leave the EU. In another 316, that decision is set to become reality. Yet the government of Theresa May has still not come to an agreement  either with itself or with Brussels  on what the new economic relationship with the continent should be. This was the most basic question raised by Brexit, and it should have been answered before Article 50 was triggered, setting in motion withdrawal. Failure to do so is testament to political divisions and weak leadership. So we shall have to make up Ms Mays mind for her.

So, in light of this muddle and confusion, what question would be put in a second referendum? In the 2016 referendum the question was should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union? In effect, this formulation called for an answer from the gut. Like it or leave it? But in a second referendum, this luxury would not be available. There would have to be reference to the terms of disengagement covering such crucial questions as whether the UK would remain a member of some kind of customs union. As it is hard to get such detail into a simple question, I suggest the following:

Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave on such terms as approved by parliament?

In addition, a simple version of the terms approved by parliament could be sent to every voter and could be made available in voting stations.

The demographics are changing, points out Nick Clegg (Reuters) (REUTERS)

This would have the merit of emphasising that parliament is the supreme decision-making body in this country. However, as a Remainer, I must remember a key rule about asking questions  never ask one when you might not like the answer. How likely is it that the answer to a second referendum might differ from the first? Remember that voters are likely to be hostile to the holding of a second referendum. They may think  you have asked us once, we gave you an answer, dont bother us again. With the result that the turnout for a second referendum would likely be low and thus unconvincing.

However, Peter Kellner, the experienced political commentator and former president of YouGov, has just published a much more upbeat appraisal. He believes that below the surface, public opinion is stirring. In particular, one million Labour voters who backed Brexit two years ago are having second thoughts. His study of recent polling results convinces him that significant numbers of younger Leave voters, as well as those supporting Labour in last years election, no longer think Brexit is right for Britain. He also supports the Nick Clegg thesis and argues that the effects of demographic changes since the referendum are growing. Bluntly, as he writes, older, mainly Leave, voters are dying and younger, mainly Remain, voters are joining the electorate.

Mr Kellner bases his findings in the more than 23,000 voters that YouGov has questioned since the start of the year. And his conclusion is that there is a real prospect that if the people were given the final say on Brexit, they would vote for the UK to stay in the European Union. So lets have a second referendum.A man has reportedly been shot in the face while another was stabbed several times in two attacks in London.

Police were called to Wodehouse Avenue in Peckham around 8pm on Saturday evening, following reports of a shooting.

Armed police found two men, both believed to be in their 20s, suffering from gun shot injuries.

Both men were taken to hospital in an air ambulance.

One remains there in critical condition, while the other mans injuries are not thought to be as serious.

A spokesperson for the Met Police said: Police in Southwark were called to Wodehouse Avenue, SE5 at 19:56hrs on Saturday, 2 June following reports of a shooting.

Officers, including armed police, attended and found two men  both believed aged in their 20s  suffering gun shot injuries.

One man has been taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service for treatment  he remains there in a critical condition.

The second man has been taken to hospital for assessment. His injuries are not thought to be serious.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 6 October 2021 A protester, wearing a mask of Johnson, holds a sign reading Question it all on the final day of the Tory conference Getty UK news in pictures 5 October 2021 Members of Insulate Britain outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, before a hearing over the injunction banning the environmental activists from blocking the M25 PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2021 A delegate passes a street cleaner on the second day of the annual Conservative Party Conference being held at the Manchester Central convention centre AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2021 Margaret Thatcher-themed mugs for sale at the annual Conservative Party conference in Manchester EPA UK news in pictures 2 October 2021 A couple make their way through a flooded underpass in Bristol as a yellow weather warning for rain and wind is issued for parts of the UK Tom Wren/SWNS UK news in pictures 1 October 2021 A driver talks to members of the media after passing his HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) driving test at National Driving Centre in Croydon, south London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 30 September 2021 The centrepiece One Thousand Springs by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota is seen ahead of the beginning of the Japan Festival, a celebration of the countrys plants, art and culture running from 2-31 October, at Kew Gardens in London PA UK news in pictures 29 September 2021 The family of Betty Campbell unveil the bronze sculpture of her during the unveiling of the statue in Central Square, Cardiff, of Betty Campbell, Wales' first black headteacher PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2021 A sign referring to the lack of fuel is placed at the entrance to a petrol station in London AP UK news in pictures 27 September 2021 Police officers detain a protester from Insulate Britain occupying a roundabout leading from the M25 motorway to Heathrow Airport in London PA UK news in pictures 26 September 2021 Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer watches the Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur match at The Font pub in Brighton PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2021 Scottish pro-independence supporters hold a march and rally outside the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, Scotland Getty Images UK news in pictures 24 September 2021 Police officers remove two protesters from the top of a tanker, as Insulate Britain block the A20 in Kent, which provides access to the Port of Dover in Kent. The environmental activists have moved location after been banned from campaigning on the M25 motorway in London PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2021 Gabriella, the seven year old daughter of imprisoned British-Iranian Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, joins in a game on a giant snakes and ladders board in Parliament Square, to show the ups and downs of her mothers case to mark the 2,000 days she has been detained in Iran AP UK news in pictures 22 September 2021 A new sign hangs on the Millicent Fawcett statue after it was altered by CrackTheCrises coalition activists to highlight the climate crisis as a feminist struggle in Parliament Square in London EPA UK news in pictures 21 September 2021 Gabriella Diment prepares a monumental bronze patinated fibreglass wall sculpture depicting household cavalry soldiers on horseback which is expected to be sold for 12,000-18,000 when it goes up for auction at Summers Place Auctions in Billinghurst, Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2021 Florist Judith Blacklock puts the finishing touches to a floral carousel installation in Halkin Arcade, which she has designed with Neill Strain for the Belgravia in Bloom festival, running from September 20-26, in London PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2021 Bubbles surround Manchester Uniteds Cristiano Ronaldo before the match against West Ham at London Stadium Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 18 September 2021 Children take part in the Settrington Cup Pedal Car Race as motoring enthusiasts attend the Goodwood Revival, a three-day historic car racing festival in Goodwood, Chichester, Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2021 Hugo, 7, from London rides past a 4x7 metre rainbow arch, made entirely of recycled aluminium cans, which has been installed by recycling initiative 'Every Can Counts', in partnership with The City of London Corporation in front of St Paul's Cathedral in London, to encourage members of the public to recycle their drinks cans ahead of recycling week, which starts on 20 September PA UK news in pictures 16 September 2021 Sheikeh MOhammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, leader of Abu Dhabi, leaves Downing Street after meeting with Boris Johnson PA UK news in pictures 15 September 2021 Children pose by ice sculptures depicting people collecting water by charity Water Aid to show the fragility of water and the threat posed by climate change in London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 14 September 2021 Heavy rain covers the A149 near Kings Lynn in Norfolk PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2021 Luke Jerram's 'Museum of the Moon' at Durham Cathedral PA UK news in pictures 12 September 2021 Inspirational young fundraiser Tobias Weller crosses the finish line, near his home in Sheffield, as he completes his latest epic feat where he swam and triked his way to the end of his awesome year-long Ironman Challenge. This is the third challenge Tobias, who has cerebral palsy and autism, has completed, raising more than 150,000 for his school and Sheffield Children Hospitals charity PA UK news in pictures 11 September 2021 British player Emma Raducanu, holds up the US Open championship trophy winning the women's singles final of the US Open in New York AP UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA

Around an hour earlier, a man was stabbed multiple times in Claremont Street, Greenwich.

The man, believed to be in his 40s, was taken to hospital.

Police are currently awaiting an update on his condition.

A Met Police spokesperson said: Police were called to Claremont Street, SE10 at 1848hrs on Saturday, 2 June to reports of a stabbing.

Officers and London Ambulance Service (LAS) attended and found a male suffering from multiple stab injuries.

The injured man  believed to be aged in his forties  was taken by LAS to a south London hospital. We await an update on his condition.

No arrests have been made in either attack and crime scenes remain in place at both locations.

It comes amid a spate of stabbings in the capital.

Recent statistics released by the Metropolitan Police show a 21 per cent increase in knife crime so far in 2018.

Commenting on the death of a father-of-three who was stabbed in west London on Wednesday night, Sadiq Khan, the mayor, said: We must all work together to bring an end to senseless violent crime, which affects the whole country. I am continuing to do all I can to tackle this dreadful scourge, including investing millions in the Mets new Violent Crime Task Force.Jeremy Corbyn has pledged to give the Elgin Marbles back to Greece if he became prime minister.

The Labour leader said the marbles  also known as the Parthenon sculptures  belonged to Greece and that if elected, he would open talks on returning them.

Recommended Greece offers ancient wonders in exchange for Elgin Marbles

When asked whether he would consider returning the long-disputed carved figures, Mr Corbyn stressed that they were made in Greece, and that is where they were for thousands of years until they were taken, the countrys Ta Nea newspaper reported.

It is very clear to me that the Parthenon sculptures belong to Greece, he was quoted as saying.

The Elgin Marbles, made in the 5th century BC, were removed from the Parthenon temple on the Acropolis in Athens by Lord Elgin, the then Ottoman ambassador, in the early 1800s. Since 1816 they have been housed in the British Museum.

A statue of the river god Ilissos by Phidias, part of the Elgin Marbles and on display at the British Museum (AP)

Their status has long been hotly disputed. Greece, which for decades has called for their return, with several formal requests, has also in the past threatened legal action and proposed solutions such as mediation by Unesco.

Lord Elgin insisted he had permission to take the sculptures, saying he had the permission of officials of the ruling Ottoman empire, and that he was worried about their being damaged.

Opponents of their removal from London say that the move would pave the way for requests from other countries for artworks in British museums to returned.

Supporters of the Greek position argue that the Ottoman authorities were a foreign force and had no right to let the artefacts go.

Ta Nea reported: In the exclusive interview given to Nea, Jeremy Corbyn agrees that, if elected, he will begin the return of the Parthenon sculptures to our country.

Mr Corbyn reportedly said: They were made in Greece and have been there for many centuries until Lord Elgin took them.

Recommended Seven reasons to return the Elgin Marbles to Greece

As with anything stolen or taken from occupied or colonial possession  including artefacts looted from other countries in the past  we should be engaged in constructive talks with the Greek government about returning the sculptures.

Mr Corbyn has long been a supporter of the marbles repatriation but this is the first time as party leader that he has made his intent so clear.

The UK governments position is that the ownership of the sculptures is a matter for the trustees of the British Museum, according to a House of Commons briefing paper.

Acropolis now! A museum for the Elgin Marbles Show all 2 1 /2 Acropolis now! A museum for the Elgin Marbles Acropolis now! A museum for the Elgin Marbles 191501.bin ALAMY Acropolis now! A museum for the Elgin Marbles 191502.bin PETROS GIANNAKOURIS / AP

The British Museum website says: The Acropolis Museum allows the Parthenon sculptures that are in Athens to be appreciated against the backdrop of ancient Greek and Athenian history. This display does not alter the trustees view that the sculptures are part of everyones shared heritage and transcend cultural boundaries. The trustees remain convinced that the current division allows different and complementary stories to be told about the surviving sculptures.

It says the British Museum Act 1963 bans the trustees from permanently disposing of objects unless they are duplicates of others already in the collection or are unfit to be retained ... and can be disposed of without detriment to the interests of students.

A Labour spokesperson said Mr Corbyn was stating his long-standing personal view and that he was right to call for constructive talks.If people are really sick of Brexit then they should get shot of Brexit, David Miliband, the former foreign secretary has said.

Mr Miliband has made several high-profile recent interventions on Brexit as the date of Britains exit inches ever nearer.

The truth about Brexit is two fold, he told the Hay literary festival on Saturday. One, it is squeezing the life out of politics and its ability to address precisely the concerns that drove people to vote for Brexit in the first place.

There is no legislation on social care, there is no legislation on housing and homelessness, theres not even legislation on immigration.

Brexit is squeezing the life out of the social and economic reform that the country desperately needs.

People often say to me Yeah, but look people are sick of Brexit and we just need to get on with it, my point is if youre really sick of Brexit you need to get shot of Brexit.

Mr Miliband said that he would take part in any campaign to vote against the terms of any Brexit deal in comments which demonstrated his implacable opposition to the UK leaving the European Union.

He was asked at the Hay literary festival on Saturday whether, if there was a referendum on the nature of Brexit, he would be part of a campaign to reject it.

Of course, he said. I tried to campaign last time, I hope Id campaign more effectively next time.

His comments came the day after a further group of Labour backbenchers rebelled against the leadership to demand a second referendum on the Brexit deal, in a letter to The Independent.

He also said that Jeremy Corbyn should back the idea of a "Norway model" for Britain after Brexit.

The Labour leader should allow his MPs to vote for a European Economic Area (EEA) deal, that would provide a "safe harbour" in a world that has markedly changed since the 2016 referendum.

Mr Miliband said that the EEA would allow concerns over immigration to be addressed because it allowed for an "emergency brake" on migrants.

"We are 708 days from the referendum and Britain still does not have a negotiating position on the most basic elements of our relationship with Europe after Brexit, he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Saturday.

"I would say the Labour Party had a position on the customs union but not on the single market. I think it would be very wise to say that the EEA is a safe harbour.

"The offer that was made at the time of Brexit is not on the table, the global situation has been transformed much for the worse, not least by the actions of President (Donald) Trump, he said.

"I believe it's absolutely essential that we face reality head-on. That reality is that people should be able to have a final say on whether or not to go ahead with the form of Brexit that is negotiated by the government."

Mr Corbyn's team have previously said that the EEA idea has "clear problems" in relation to any new trade deal.

The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Show all 8 1 /8 The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Post-Brexit immigration workers sorting radishes on a production line at a farm in Norfolk. One possible post-Brexit immigration scheme could struggle to channel workers towards less attractive roles - while another may heighten the risk of labour exploitation, a new report warns. PA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Customs union A key point in the negotiations remains Britain's access to, or withdrawal from, the EU customs union. Since the referendum there has been hot debate over the meaning of Brexit: would it entail a full withdrawal from the existing agreement, known as hard Brexit, or the soft version in which we would remain part of a common customs area for most goods, as Turkey does? No 10 has so far insisted that Brexit means Brexit and that Britain will be leaving the customs union, but may be inclined to change its position once the potential risks to the UKs economic outlook become clearer. Alamy The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Northern Ireland-Irish border Though progress was made last year, there has still been no solid agreement on whether there should be a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. To ensure borderless travel on the island, the countries must be in regulatory alignment and therefore adhere to the same rules as the customs union. In December, the Conservative Partys coalition partners, the DUP, refused a draft agreement that would place the UK/EU border in the Irish Sea due to its potential to undermine the union. May has promised that would not be the case and has suggested that a specific solution would need to be found. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Transition period Despite protests from a small number of Conservative MPs, the Government and the EU are largely in agreement that a transitional period is needed after Brexit. The talks, however, have reached an impasse. Though May has agreed that the UK will continue to contribute to the EU budget until 2021, the PM wants to be able to select which laws made during this time the UK will have to adhere to. Chief negotiator Michel Barnier has said the UK must adopt all of the laws passed during the transition, without any input from British ministers or MEPs. EPA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Rights of EU citizens living the UK The Prime Minister has promised EU citizens already living in the UK the right to live and work here after Brexit, but the rights of those who arrive after Brexit day remains unclear. May insists that those who arrive during the transition period should not be allowed to stay, whereas the EU believe the cut-off point should be later. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Future trade agreement (with the EU) Despite this being a key issue in negotiations, the Government has yet to lay out exactly what it wants from a trade deal with the EU. Infighting within the Cabinet has prevented a solid position from being reached, with some MPs content that "no deal is better than a bad deal" while others rally behind single market access. The EU has already confirmed that access to the single market would be impossible without the UK remaining in the customs union. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Future trade agreements (internationally) The Government has already begun trying to woo foreign leaders into prospective trade agreements, with various high profile state visits to China, India and Canada for May, and the now infamous invitation to US President Donald Trump to visit London. However the UK cannot make trade agreements with another country while it is still a member of the EU, and the potential loss of trade with the world's major powers is a source of anxiety for the PM. The EU has said the UK cannot secure trade deals during the transition period. EPA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Financial services Banks in the UK will be hit hard regardless of the Brexit outcome. The EU has refused to give British banks passporting rights to trade within the EU, dashing hopes of a special City deal. However according to new reports Germany has suggested allowing trade on the condition that the UK continues paying into the EU budget even after the transition period. Getty

Last month his spokesman said: "The EEA packages that are currently in existence do not meet the needs and the priorities that we have set out and the Norway option is not appropriate and will not work for the kind of Brexit we want to see."

On Friday, 16 Labour MPs in London joined forces with Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable and two of his MPs to warn of the dangers that the capital faces when the UK leaves the European Union.

The UK is set to be worse off after Brexit, according to the governments own impact reports.

GDP could fall by 7.7 per cent over 15 years if the UK opts for a World Trade Organisation-type post-Brexit trading arrangement with the EU, the analysis found.

Under an EEA deal the fall would be 1.6%.

The signatories of the letter to The Independent, which urged a deal that keeps Britain in the customs union and single market, included six former shadow ministers, several of whom were in place until last year.

It came the day after 10 Welsh Labour MPs called for a second referendum, including Anna McMorrin and Tonia Antoniazzi, who are parliamentary private secretaries to shadow cabinet members.

Other Labour backbenchers who have called for a second referendum on the Brexit deal include MPs in the North East.

Mr Corbyn has repeatedly said Labour does not support a second national poll and fired Owen Smith as shadow Northern Ireland secretary for proposing one.Legalising cannabis could earn the UK up to 3.5bn a year, a new study has claimed.

Health Poverty Action, an international development organisation, claims that legalising the class B drug would have many benefits, including extra revenue to fund the NHS.

The study estimated levels of tax income assuming the hypothetical cannabis market worked in a similar way to the UK alcohol and tobacco markets in terms of taxation.

 Life as a teenage drug dealer

Recommended Football player who uses cannabis oil to prevent seizures barred

It said a conservative estimate of yearly cannabis duties would be nearly 2bn if the drug were taxed at the same level as alcohol, or 3.5bn if tobacco taxation levels were applied.

The study also references US states that have decriminalised cannabis, stating that "Colorado  with a population only slightly larger than Scotland  raised $247m (179m) from new cannabis taxes and licence fees in 2017 alone".

Legalisation potentially leading to an increase of young people using the drug is also addressed in the study.

"The early indications from the US states where the newly regulated markets are most developed, are that teenage use of cannabis has not risen as opponents of legalisation had feared, whilst at the same time new cannabis taxes are bringing in vital revenues to help fund public services," the study's authors say.

The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism? Show all 6 1 /6 The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism? The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism? 258565.bin The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism? 258571.bin The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism? 258570.bin ALAMY The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism? 258568.bin The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism? 258567.bin The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism? 258566.bin

The argument that legalisation decriminalises a 'gateway' drug is also addressed. The study says: "Regulation could reduce the gateway opportunity for criminal suppliers to additionally market more risky (and more profitable) drugs to consumers."

And the study points out that decriminalising cannabis will take money away from drug dealers and allow the substance to be safely regulated.

Health Poverty Action suggests: "We could regulate or limit potency (or nudge people towards using safer products through tax/pricing), reduce the use of adulterants and limit the quantity of heavy metals, pesticides or other harmful products that make it into the final product, ensuring the safety of cannabis users."

Martin Drewry, Director of Health Poverty Action, said: This week Canada will become the first G7 country to vote to legalise and regulate cannabis, it is clear that the war on drugs has failed and that responsible regulation protecting public health is the way forward.

"And with the NHS on the brink this kind of tax revenue is hard to ignore. The time has come for the UK to catch up with this global shift  we really cannot afford to be left behind.Cosmetics chain Lush has removed its controversial campaign posters from some shops after it claimed to have been facing intimidation from ex-police officers.

The company caused outrage recently after launching the #SpyCops campaign, which saw posters placed in shop windows featuring police officers and the words "paid to lie", along with faux police tape emblazoned with the words: "Police have crossed a line".

However some shops have removed the posters from their windows, allegedly due to intimidation from ex-officers.

Recommended Lush sparks heavy criticism for attacking police with window display

The campaign has been described by Lush as an attempt to raise awareness of the ongoing undercover policing scandal where officers have infiltrated the lives, homes and beds of activists.

Undercover police operations have faced criticism in recent years after revelations that some undercover officers have engaged in romantic relationships and even fathered children with protestors who belonged to groups they were trying to infiltrate.

In a statement the company said: "Whilst intimidation of our shop staff from ex-police officers and unhelpful tweets from those in high office are ongoing, not all of our shops feel able today to have the campaign window in their shops.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 3 October 2021 Margaret Thatcher-themed mugs for sale at the annual Conservative Party conference in Manchester EPA UK news in pictures 2 October 2021 A couple make their way through a flooded underpass in Bristol as a yellow weather warning for rain and wind is issued for parts of the UK Tom Wren/SWNS UK news in pictures 1 October 2021 A driver talks to members of the media after passing his HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) driving test at National Driving Centre in Croydon, south London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 30 September 2021 The centrepiece One Thousand Springs by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota is seen ahead of the beginning of the Japan Festival, a celebration of the countrys plants, art and culture running from 2-31 October, at Kew Gardens in London PA UK news in pictures 29 September 2021 The family of Betty Campbell unveil the bronze sculpture of her during the unveiling of the statue in Central Square, Cardiff, of Betty Campbell, Wales' first black headteacher PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2021 A sign referring to the lack of fuel is placed at the entrance to a petrol station in London AP UK news in pictures 27 September 2021 Police officers detain a protester from Insulate Britain occupying a roundabout leading from the M25 motorway to Heathrow Airport in London PA UK news in pictures 26 September 2021 Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer watches the Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur match at The Font pub in Brighton PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2021 Scottish pro-independence supporters hold a march and rally outside the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, Scotland Getty Images UK news in pictures 24 September 2021 Police officers remove two protesters from the top of a tanker, as Insulate Britain block the A20 in Kent, which provides access to the Port of Dover in Kent. The environmental activists have moved location after been banned from campaigning on the M25 motorway in London PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2021 Gabriella, the seven year old daughter of imprisoned British-Iranian Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, joins in a game on a giant snakes and ladders board in Parliament Square, to show the ups and downs of her mothers case to mark the 2,000 days she has been detained in Iran AP UK news in pictures 22 September 2021 A new sign hangs on the Millicent Fawcett statue after it was altered by CrackTheCrises coalition activists to highlight the climate crisis as a feminist struggle in Parliament Square in London EPA UK news in pictures 21 September 2021 Gabriella Diment prepares a monumental bronze patinated fibreglass wall sculpture depicting household cavalry soldiers on horseback which is expected to be sold for 12,000-18,000 when it goes up for auction at Summers Place Auctions in Billinghurst, Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2021 Florist Judith Blacklock puts the finishing touches to a floral carousel installation in Halkin Arcade, which she has designed with Neill Strain for the Belgravia in Bloom festival, running from September 20-26, in London PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2021 Bubbles surround Manchester Uniteds Cristiano Ronaldo before the match against West Ham at London Stadium Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 18 September 2021 Children take part in the Settrington Cup Pedal Car Race as motoring enthusiasts attend the Goodwood Revival, a three-day historic car racing festival in Goodwood, Chichester, Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2021 Hugo, 7, from London rides past a 4x7 metre rainbow arch, made entirely of recycled aluminium cans, which has been installed by recycling initiative 'Every Can Counts', in partnership with The City of London Corporation in front of St Paul's Cathedral in London, to encourage members of the public to recycle their drinks cans ahead of recycling week, which starts on 20 September PA UK news in pictures 16 September 2021 Sheikeh MOhammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, leader of Abu Dhabi, leaves Downing Street after meeting with Boris Johnson PA UK news in pictures 15 September 2021 Children pose by ice sculptures depicting people collecting water by charity Water Aid to show the fragility of water and the threat posed by climate change in London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 14 September 2021 Heavy rain covers the A149 near Kings Lynn in Norfolk PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2021 Luke Jerram's 'Museum of the Moon' at Durham Cathedral PA UK news in pictures 12 September 2021 Inspirational young fundraiser Tobias Weller crosses the finish line, near his home in Sheffield, as he completes his latest epic feat where he swam and triked his way to the end of his awesome year-long Ironman Challenge. This is the third challenge Tobias, who has cerebral palsy and autism, has completed, raising more than 150,000 for his school and Sheffield Children Hospitals charity PA UK news in pictures 11 September 2021 British player Emma Raducanu, holds up the US Open championship trophy winning the women's singles final of the US Open in New York AP UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. 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PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA

"However the campaign is still running for three weeks and we will be constantly weighing up what to do about the situation."

Home secretary Sajid Javid was one of those critical of the campaign, tweeting: "Never thought I would see a mainstream British retailer running a public advertising campaign against our hardworking police.

"This is not a responsible way to make a point."

Lush's York store reportedly removed the posters from its windows yesterday after staff said they were not comfortable with the campaign.

Twitter user Paddy Reeve claimed that a Lush store in Peterborough removed the posters "as a direct result" of his visit to the shop.

Calum Macleod, chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said in a statement: The Lush advertising campaign is offensive, disgusting and an insult to the hard work, professionalism and dedication of police officers throughout the UK.

I cannot believe that someone, somewhere, actually thought this campaign was a good idea. All it serves to do is to criticise police officers and encourage an anti-police sentiment. Police officers already face enough abuse from those who break the law and are a menace to society, without the need for a cosmetic company to start putting the boot in too.Guwahati: The city based Hayat Hospital conducted a weekly media OPD clinic at Guwahati Press Club on 2 June 2018, where Dr Nasimur Riaz and Dr Ritupam Das offered free consultations to the participants.





Organized for the benefit of press club members along with their dependants, the Saturday camp also facilitated the participants to check their weight, blood sugar & pressure. Nurses Renuka Barman & Blari Nongbri assisted the doctors, where Hayat Hospitals general manager Paragjyoti Dutta was also present.



Drivers are being urged to report signs of modern slavery at cheap hand car washes using a new smartphone app.

Safe Car Wash asks motorists about a series of indicators of forced labour including the use of children, fearful behaviour, a lack of protective clothing and prices lower than 6.70.

It sends the anonymised data and a GPS position to the National Crime Agency (NCA) and the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) and directs users to the Modern Slavery Helpline.

The app, which is available for download from 4 June, has been launched by The Clewer Initiative, the Church of Englands campaign against modern slavery, and the Santa Marta Group, the Catholic Churchs anti-slavery project.

It is estimated that there are more than 18,000 hand car washes on Britains high streets, at the sides of motorways, and on abandoned garage forecourts.

While many run as legitimate businesses, some exploit, force and threaten workers, according to campaigners  but there is no reliable data on the scale of the problem.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: Over the last few years we have learnt more about the evil of modern slavery and we have begun to understand how it is perpetrated in our communities in plain sight.

Through the Safe Car Wash app we now have a chance to help tackle this scourge which is damaging so many peoples lives.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the Archbishop of Westminster, welcomed the very helpful and timely initiative in an area of real exploitation.

As we learn to see this example of forced labour and modern slavery in our midst, we will also become more aware of the presence of this evil scourge in other sectors in our neighbourhood, he added.

The app is described on its website as a new tool that will enable the largest community intelligence gathering exercise ever attempted in the United Kingdom.

Modern Slavery in the UK Show all 13 1 /13 Modern Slavery in the UK Modern Slavery in the UK NCA has launched a touring photographic exhibition which aims to portray the signs of slavery and exploitation. Entitled Invisible People, the exhibition will tour the country as part of the National Crime Agencys campaign to raise awareness of modern slavery and human trafficking. National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Child trafficking Child trafficking for sexual exploitation Traffickers use grooming techniques to gain the trust of a child, family or community. The children are recruited, transported and then sold for sex, often returning to their homes immediately afterwards, only to be picked up by the same people again. This is happening here in the UK, to migrant and British-born children. Spot the signs of child trafficking: Often, children wont be sure which country, city or town theyre in. They may be orphaned or living apart from their family, in unregulated private foster care, or in substandard accommodation. They may possess unaccounted-for money or goods or repeatedly have new, unexplained injuries. National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Agriculture Some workers in the farming sector, harvesting grains or root vegetables, tending livestock or fruit picking, are being exploited every day in the UK. Victims of this crime in the agricultural sector are often Eastern European men and women, who were promised a job by traffickers, or they could be individuals on the fringes of society, homeless or destitute. Through threats, violence, coercion or forced drug and alcohol dependency, theyre enslaved, working for little or no money, living in squalid conditions having had their identity documents taken from them. Spot the signs of exploitative labour in agriculture: Agricultural slaves often have their wages paid into the same bank account, meaning an illegal gangmaster is likely collecting all their wages. Exploited agriculture workers often dont have suitable protective equipment, working instead in cheap sports clothing and trainers, and dont have a different change of clothes from day-to-day. National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Food processing Polish or Slovakian men are brought to the UK with the offer of employment and, after arrival, gangmasters seize documents, opening multiple bank and utility accounts in their names  but refuse to handover access to the accounts or bank cards. Hours are long and the work is gruelling and dangerous. Workers are abused and are controlled by threats of harm to their families at home. Spot the signs: Those exploited wear inappropriate clothes and often no safety gear  despite working with dangerous and life-threatening equipment. They may often have untreated injuries and be refused medical attention, and will live and work in agricultural outhouses. National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Construction Labour-intensive sectors like construction, where temporary and irregular work are common, are high-risk sectors for forced labour. With new homes, offices and buildings being constructed or upgraded in great quantity, labour exploitation is the second most common type of modern slavery, after sexual exploitation. Spot the signs of exploitative labour in construction: Exploited workers are often not provided with protective clothing or equipment, and may show signs of abuse or carry old untreated injuries. Slave workers are also likely to work extremely long work hours for six or seven days a week without any leave. Photographer Rory Carnegie, said: I wanted this image to communicate that despite being forced to live, eat, wash and sleep  where theyre working, in cramped and unhygienic conditions, that there is a human instinct to domesticate. I wanted to show how there is still hope and dignity in the most squalid and difficult of circumstances. National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Maritime In the tough maritime industry young men, often Filipino or Indian, Eastern European or African, are promised a better life, but instead find themselves in a cycle of debt and exploitation. Unable to read, they are offered a job, given papers to sign and begin working on a trial-basis, only to be told they have failed and owe money, and have to work more to settle the debt. They may be forced to work for long hours in intense, hazardous and difficult conditions. Photographer Rory Carnegie, said: In the 80s, Chris Killip published a series of images called In Flagrante, and these images were at the forefront of my mind while composing this shot. I wanted to show the utter desperation of these men - how passed their limit they are. The broken floats and the entire decaying environment around him, I saw as a metaphor for his existence. Rory Carnegie/National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Forced prostitution Each year, women from across Eastern Europe and West Africa are lured to the UK by the dream of a better life. Whether by fake migration services or unscrupulous individuals who befriend and then betray them, women fall into a dark spiral of sexual exploitation and forced, unpaid prostitution, unable to escape. Photographer Rory Carnegie, said: What I really wanted for this image, was to depict how women are used as commodities, the complete control slavery has over them  the helplessness of having to sit and wait for man after man, until no more men arrive. I wanted the image to show how lonely and eventually numbing that experience is, and for that ugliness to be contrasted against the bright blue of the wig  a fancy dress item that we would usually associate with a fun event  but here is used as a disguise, perhaps of her own identity to herself - to further emphasise how unjust the situation is. NCA Modern Slavery in the UK Cannabis farming The cannabis industry hides a dark secret in the house next door. Gangs bring young boys to the UK from countries like Vietnam and deliver them to a house where, once in, they wont be able to leave. Forced to tend cannabis plants that fill specially rigged houses, the boys are often locked in and forced to work, sleep and eat in one confined and dirty room. The chemicals used on the cannabis are poisonous, and often victims dont know where they are or how to get help if they do escape. The eyes, ears and compassion of the local community are essential. Spot the signs: Aside from the strong and prolonged smell of cannabis, have you noticed a house that looks unusual? Are the windows covered or usual entry points blocked? Buildings might be over-heated  in very cold weather is the roof without frost, because the house is being kept warm to grow plants National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Agriculture Some workers in the farming sector, harvesting grains or root vegetables, tending livestock or fruit picking, are being exploited every day in the UK. Victims of this crime in the agricultural sector are often Eastern European men and women, who were promised a job by traffickers, or they could be individuals on the fringes of society, homeless or destitute. Through threats, violence, coercion or forced drug and alcohol dependency, theyre enslaved, working for little or no money, living in squalid conditions having had their identity documents taken from them. Spot the signs of exploitative labour in agriculture: Agricultural slaves often have their wages paid into the same bank account, meaning an illegal gangmaster is likely collecting all their wages. Exploited agriculture workers often dont have suitable protective equipment, working instead in cheap sports clothing and trainers, and dont have a different change of clothes from day-to-day National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Forced prostitution Spot the signs of forced prostitution: Victims of this type of crime might appear withdrawn or scared, avoid eye contact, and be untrusting. Poor English language skills could indicate exploitation because it suggests someone else must be arranging the work. A brothel is likely to be an average house on a normal looking street, but may have curtains which are usually closed and many different men coming and going frequently. National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Maritime Spot the signs of exploitative labour in the maritime sector: Victims might appear withdrawn or frightened, often unable to answer questions directed at them or speak for themselves,. They might be afraid of authorities like police, immigration or the tax office, and may perceive themselves to be in debt to someone else. They may not have been given proper protective equipment so can suffer illness or injury. Photographer Rory Carnegie, said: Throughout the series of images, I wanted to juxtapose the harshness of the lives of slaves against bright primary colours  colours we traditionally associate with happiness or a feeling of wellbeing  to provoke a reaction. The image, as rich as it is, communicates how completely uncomfortable this person is. I wanted to show how his body is not his own, and how he has no right to avoid hardship, avoid the ice, or wear better shoes, he is utterly controlled. Rory Carnegie/National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK Food processing Photographer Rory Carnegie, said: This image communicates utter exhaustion and dejection. We can see how dire his situation is. He has no protective gear on, and we can see the extreme tiredness that leads him to a place of anxiety and distraction, where he doesnt care about whether hes operating machinery safely, or putting himself at risk. National Crime Agency Modern Slavery in the UK The exhibition comprises a series of large, freestanding cubes displaying images capturing snapshots of life within different types of modern slavery - in agriculture, construction, maritime, cannabis farming and food processing, child trafficking for sexual exploitation and forced prostitution. Each image comes with written commentary describing what the viewer is seeing, and information about signs which may indicate someone is a victim. National Crime Agency

Will Kerr, director of vulnerabilities at the NCA, said the app will help law enforcement identify those people who may be at risk, as well as those criminals who are exploiting the vulnerable.

And interim GLAA chief executive Roger Bannister added that the app is a great way of utilising the technology so many of us have become accustomed to.

The data gathered by the app will be collected and analysed over a six-month period by the University of Nottinghams Rights Lab, who will report back in early 2019.

Professor Zoe Trodd, director of the Rights Lab, said: Car washes are completely unregulated territory and we dont know how big the sector is, how many hand car washes operate or how many persons are registered to work in them.

This citizen engagement in data collection is a powerful technique with potential for mapping other vulnerable services such as nail bars.

Last year The Independent ran a special investigation into modern slavery, Slaves on our Streets.

The Press Association contributed to this reportThe leader of the DUP has warned that her party will withdraw its support for Theresa Mays government if it adopts a Brexit deal that sees Northern Ireland treated differently from the rest of the UK.

Arlene Foster said ensuring Northern Ireland maintains the same rules and regulations as Britain was a red line which if crossed would lose the Conservatives the critical backing of her 10 MPs.

It comes as cabinet ministers are still struggling to find a solution to fulfil two of Ms Mays key Brexit pledges  keeping the Irish border open and leaving the EUs customs union.

Within weeks Ms May is expected at a European Council summit where her administration had once talked about reaching an agreement on customs with the EU.

Ms Foster told Sky News: For us, our only red line is that we are not treated any different from the rest of the United Kingdom, that there are no trade barriers put up between Northern Ireland and our biggest market which, of course, is Great Britain.

Thats what we will judge all of the propositions that are brought forward  against that red line and shes very much aware of that.

And I have confidence that she knows that she cannot bring forward anything that will breach that red line or we simply will not be able to support them.

 Bank of England Governor Mark Carney: Brexit has already hit UK GDP by up to 40bn

One idea reportedly proposed by Brexit secretary David Davis  and dismissed by Downing Street  would see Northern Ireland covered by a joint regime of UK and EU customs regulations, allowing it to trade freely with both, plus a 10-mile wide special economic zone on the border with Ireland.

Cabinet ministers were last month tasked with analysing the two main options so far put forward by civil servants for the Irish border, a customs partnership proposal that would see Britain continue to collect tariffs on behalf of the EU, and the technology-based maximum facilitation, or max fac, solution. Mr Daviss idea was dubbed max fac 2.

But Brussels has already rejected both schemes, with chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier saying on Friday that neither was operational or acceptable.

Brexit so far: in pictures Show all 53 1 /53 Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit campaign Boris Johnson led the VoteLeave campaign PA Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit campaign Boris Johnson MP, Labour MP Gisela Stuart and UKIP MP Douglas Carswell address the people of Stafford in Market Square during the Vote Leave Brexit Battle Bus tour on 17 May 2016. Their lead line on the tour was: We send the EU 350 million a week, let's fund our NHS instead. Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Voting day A man shelters from the rain as he arrives at a polling station in London on 23 June 2016. Millions of Britons voted in the referendum on whether to stay in or leave the European Union AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Referendum results Leader of Ukip, Nigel Farage, reacts at the Leave EU referendum party at Millbank Tower in central London as results indicated that it was likely the UK would leave the European Union AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Protesting the result A young couple painted as EU flags and a man with a sign reading Im not leaving protest outside Downing Street against the voters decision to leave the EU on 24 June 2016 Getty Brexit so far: in pictures David Cameron resigns British Prime Minister David Cameron resigns on the steps of 10 Downing Street on 24 June 2016 after the results of the EU referendum were declared and the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Theresa May Becomes the new Conservative Party leader Theresa May receives a kiss from her husband Philip, after becoming the new Conservative Party leader on 11 July 2016. May became Prime Minister two days later and although she voted to remain in the referendum was keen to lead Britains Brexit talks after her only rival in the race to succeed David Cameron pulled out unexpectedly. May was left as the only contender standing after the withdrawal from the leadership race of Andrea Leadsom, who faced criticism for suggesting she was more qualified to be prime minister because she had children AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Lancaster House keynote speech on Brexit British Prime Minister Theresa May delivers her keynote speech on Brexit at Lancaster House in London on 17 January 2017. Where she spoke about her offer to introduce a transition period after the UK formally leaves the European Union in March 2019. Despite repeating the pro-Brexit mantra of no deal is better than a bad deal, the Prime Minister claimed she wanted a tone of trust between the negotiators and said Britain was leaving the EU but not Europe. She said there should be a clear double lock needed for the transitional period to make sure businesses had time to prepare for changes to their trading relationships with the EU Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Triggering of Article 50 British Prime Minister Theresa May in the cabinet, sitting below a painting of Britain's first Prime Minister Robert Walpole, signs the official letter to European Council President Donald Tusk invoking Article 50 and the United Kingdom's intention to leave the EU on 29 March 2017 Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Gibraltar nonsense Tensions have risen over Brexit negotiations for the Rock of Gibraltar. The European Council has said Gibraltar would be included in a trade deal between London and Brussels only with the agreement of Spain. While former Conservative leader Michael Howard claimed that Theresa May would be prepared to go to war to protect the territory. Spain's foreign minister stepped in only to assert that there was no need for the dispute Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Shock snap election Soon after triggering Article 50, Theresa May called on 18 April 2017 for a snap general election. The election would be on 8 June and it came as a shock move to many, with her reasoning to try to bolster her position before tough talks on leaving the EU AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Dissolution of Parliament for General Election Campaign Prime Minister Theresa May makes a statement in Downing Street after returning from Buckingham Palace on 3 May 2017. The Prime Minister visited the Queen to ask for the dissolution of Parliament signalling the official start to the general election campaign Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Conservatives lose parliamentary majority An arrangement of British daily newspapers showing front page stories about the exit poll results of the snap general election. British Prime Minister Theresa May faced pressure to resign on 9 June 2017 after losing her parliamentary majority, plunging the country into uncertainty as Brexit talks loomed. The pound fell sharply amid fears the Conservative leader would be unable to form a government AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Labour gains Britains opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn gives a tumbs up as he arrives at Labour headquarters in central London on 9 June 2017 after the snap general election results showed a hung parliament with Labour gains and the Conservatives losing their majority AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit negotiations begin Brexit Minister David Davis and European Commission member in charge of Brexit negotiations Michel Barnier address a press conference at the end of the first day of Brexit negotiations in Brussels on 19 June 2017 AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures May speaks in Florence British Prime Minister Theresa May speaks on 22 September 2017, in Florence. May sought to unlock Brexit talks after Brussels demanded more clarity on the crunch issues of budget payments and EU citizens' rights AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures EU council summit  insufficient progress German Chancellor Angela Merkel joins other EU leaders for a breakfast meeting during an EU summit in Brussels on 20 October 2017. The EU spoke about Brexit and announced that insufficient progress had been made AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures DUP derails settlement on the withdrawal part of Brexit DUP Deputy Leader Nigel Dodds walks off after speaking to members of the media as a protester holding flags shouts after him outside the Houses of Parliament on 5 December 2017. British Prime Minister Theresa May was forced to pull out of a deal with Brussels after the DUP said it would not accept terms which see Northern Ireland treated differently from the rest of the UK Getty Brexit so far: in pictures May suffers defeat over EU (Withdrawal) Bill Theresa May suffers defeat in parliament over EU (Withdrawal) Bill on 13 December 2017. The Government was defeated by Conservative rebels and Labour MPs in a vote on its key piece of Brexit legislation. MPs amended the EU (Withdrawal) Bill against Theresa May's will, guaranteeing Parliament a meaningful vote on any Brexit deal she agrees with Brussels. Ms May's whips applied pressure on Conservative rebels who remained defiant in the Commons throughout the day and in the end the Government was defeated by 309 votes to 305 Brexit so far: in pictures EU council summit  sufficient progress Britain's Prime minister Theresa May arrives to attend the first day of a European union summit in Brussels on 14 December 2017. European leaders discussed Brexit and announced there was finally sufficient progress at the end of the two days AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures The game moves to transition Brexit Secretary David Davis gives evidence on developments in European Union divorce talks to the Commons Exiting the EU Committee in Portcullis House, London, on 24 January 2018 PA Brexit so far: in pictures Trade deal is what May wants French President Emmanuel Macron gestures to Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May after they hold a press conference at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, on 18 January 2018. May and Macron agreed a new border security deal, through which the UK will pay more to France to stop migrants trying to reach British shores on 18 January 2018 AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Transition period agreed The UK and EU agree terms for Brexit transition period on 19 March, 2018 Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures No agreement on Irish border The EU and UK however failed to reach an agreement on the Irish border during the successful talks on other Brexit issues AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures EU attacks Mays fantasy strategy For months after the March deal is struck there is little significant progress in talks. One senior EU official tears into Britains fantasy negotiating strategy and accuses Theresa May of not even having a position on a variety of important issue Getty Brexit so far: in pictures UK releases Ireland plan Britain releases a new customs plan to solve the Northern Ireland border but Michel Barnier says it leaves unanswered questions and would not prevent a hard border EbS Brexit so far: in pictures Chequers plan agreed The cabinet agrees on a plan known as the "Chequers deal" on July 6 2018. The plan seeks regulatory alignment on goods and food, divergence on services, freedom from the European Courts of Justice and an end to free movement. Many were surprised that the hard Brexiteers of the cabinet would agree to this plan PA Brexit so far: in pictures Chequers plan sparks resignations Brexit Secretary David Davis and Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and numerous ministers resign in the days following the Chequers agreement Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures Davis out, Raab in On 9 July, Dominic Raab replaces David Davis as Brexit Secretary. Raab is a keen Brexiteer and was a housing minister before taking over from Davis Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures Barnier's "deal like no other" EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier claims on August 29 2018 that they are prepared to offer Britain a trade deal like no other, though he stressed that they will not divide or change the single market to accommodate Britain AP Brexit so far: in pictures "My deal or no deal" In an interview on Panorama on September 17, the Prime Minister insists that any Brexit deal will be offered to the EU on her terms. She asserts this amongst continued attacks on her approach to Brexit by Boris Johnson and the European Research Group, headed by Jacob Rees Mogg BBC/Jeff Overs Brexit so far: in pictures EU leaders reject Chequers Quite the blow was dealt to the Prime Minister at a EU leaders summit in Salzburg on September 20. European Council President Donald Tusk stated that the Chequers deal "will not work" Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures May demands respect Following the rejection of her Chequers plan the day before, the Prime Minister voiced her anger that the EU had dismissed it without offering an alternative. She stated that throughout this process, I have treated the EU with nothing but respect. The UK expects the same. A good relationship at the end of this process depends on it." Getty Brexit so far: in pictures People's Vote march As the People's Vote campaign and The Independent's Final Say campaign gain traction, 700,000 people turn out in London to demand a final say on the UK's Brexit deal on October 20 2018 PA Brexit so far: in pictures More resignations As the Prime Minister settles on a Brexit deal, Brexit secretary Dominic Raab resigns along with Work and Pensions secretary Esther McVey and many other ministers Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Final Say petitions delivered to Downing Street People's Vote supporting MPs Chukka Umunna, Justine Greening and Caroline Lucas and The Independent editor Christian Broughton deliver over a million signatures in favour of a People's Vote to the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street on December 3 2018 PA Brexit so far: in pictures May delays vote On December 10, the Prime Minister delayed the vote on her Brexit deal as it was near certain not to pass through the Commons due to Tory rebels and lack of DUP support AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures No confidence motion Tory MPs triggered a confidence vote in the Prime Minister on December 12. She won by 200 votes to 117 Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures Commons rejects the deal Following the delay, the Prime Minister's deal was rejected in the Commons by a historic 230 votes AFP Brexit so far: in pictures Corbyn tables a no confidence motion Following the rejection of the Prime Minister's deal, opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn tabled a motion of no confidence in the government, which the government won by a margin of 19 AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Plan B The Prime Minister won the support of the commons to return to Brussels to renegotiate the backstop on January 29. In the same sitting, MPs also voted against a no-deal Brexit in a non-legally binding motion PA Brexit so far: in pictures EU council president savages Brexit campaigners who failed to plan for departure: Special place in hell There is a special place in hell for pro-Brexit campaigners who demanded Britain leave the EU without explaining how it should happen, Donald Tusk has said. The European Council president launched the scathing attack as he accused anti-EU campaigners of pushing for Brexit without even a sketch of a plan how to carry it out safely. Mr Tusk also dismissed suggestions that the EU could reopen negotiations over the controversial Northern Ireland backstop, dealing a blow to Theresa Mays hopes of securing fresh concessions as she tries to get her exit deal through parliament. Speaking in Brussels alongside Irish taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Mr Tusk said: Ive been wondering what a special place in hell looks like for people who promoted Brexit without even a sketch of a plan how to carry it out safely. He also tweeted the accusation moments later Getty Brexit so far: in pictures EU and UK announce talks to restart after Theresa May visits Brussels Both have agreed to restart Brexit talks to find a way through the deadlock in Westminster, following a visit by Theresa May to Brussels. In a joint statement the British government and European Commission said Ms May had had a robust but constructive meeting with president Jean-Claude Juncker, and that the pair would meet again before the end of the month. But the EU again refused to reopen the withdrawal agreement and its controversial backstop  with any negotiations expected to focus on the future relationship between the UK and EU instead Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit strategy lost MPs voted down May's Brext plans, with a majority of 45. The prime minister did not appear in parliament to see another defeat PA Brexit so far: in pictures Labour and Conservative MPs resign and create the Independent Group Back row of Chris Leslie, Gavin Shuker, Chuka Umunna and Mike Gapes, middle row of Angela Smith, Luciana Berger and Ann Coffey and front row of Sarah Wollaston, Heidi Allen, Anna Soubry and Joan Ryan PA Brexit so far: in pictures Non-biding votes on amendments to Brexit motion On February 27 he house held a series of votes, unanimously calling for the UK and EU to guarantee citizens rights in a no-deal scenario AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Attorney General publishes legal advice A hammer blow for May as Geoffrey Cox said her renegotiated deal can still leave UK in backstop against its will. Mr Cox did say the prime ministers efforts had reduced the risk of the UK being trapped in the backstop indefinitely. MPs went on to vote against her deal by 391 to 242 UK Parliament/PA Brexit so far: in pictures No-deal off the table MPs rejected a no-deal Brexit by 43 votes on March 13, with cabinet ministers rebelling in another humiliating defeat for Theresa May. A day later they voted in favour of the prime minister seeking an extension to Article 50 AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures House speaker bans May from third Commons vote on same Brexit deal John Bercow sensationally told Theresa May he would stop her making another attempt to pass her Brexit deal unless she has secured changes. The Speaker said a further meaningful vote would be ruled out of order if the motion was the same or substantially the same  under an ancient convention to stop the government bullying parliament on issues MPs have rejected Parliament Live Brexit so far: in pictures May writes to Tusk The prime minister wrote to Donald Tusk, president of the European Council, to ask for a three-month extension to give her more time to try to get her deal through parliament. However the European Commission advises the EU27 should offer a short extension to May 23 or a longer one meaning the UK would participate in European elections 10 Downing Street/AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures European Council summit Theresa Mays request to extend triggering Article 50 until the end of June was rejected by the EU, and instead offered a shorter time frame. She accepted the offer of a delay until May 22 if her withdrawal deal is approved by Parliament. If MPs rejected it for a third time, the EU said Britain must propose a new plan by April 12. Ms May said she will not support a long delay because it would mean Britain participating in elections for the European Parliament Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Brussels confirms preparations for a no-deal Brexit are completed They warned that it is increasingly likely the UK will crash out. In a statement the European Commission (EC) said preparedness and contingency work, which the EC has been conducting since December 2017, was now finished. The announcement came days after EU leaders agreed to a request by Theresa May to extend the UKs Brexit date AFP Brexit so far: in pictures May resigns Reuters

EU leaders including Leo Varadkar, the Irish taoiseach, have called for progress by the time the European Council meets at the end of June, with Simon Coveney, Irelands deputy head of government, on Saturday also telling The Irish Times the UK must produce written proposals for the border within the next two weeks.

Sajid Javid, the home secretary, said on Sunday that the government was making progress with Brexit plans, saying: Im confident that as we get to the June council meeting, the prime minister will have a good set of proposals and our colleagues in Europe will respond positively.

But shadow international trade secretary Barry Gardiner said the governments refusal to remain in a customs union with the European Union would ensure the UK was a minnow trying to compete against whales on the global stage.

He told Sky News that Labours Brexit policy would ensure trade in goods would continue uninterrupted, adding: The Tories red line is actually going to make it much, much more difficult.

Theyre the ones who will be isolated, they will be minnows trying to compete against whales.

They will be a 70 million strong consumer market against Americas 500 million.New infrastructure planned by the government to absorb disruption at the Channel ports will not be ready in time for a no-deal Brexit, because of delays in planning the project.

Highways Agency officials have told The Independent planned lorry parks will definitely not be available by March 2019  too late to help tackle the estimated 30-mile lorry queues Dover is expected to face in the event of no deal being agreed upon.

The slow progress on constructing the off-road holding areas puts Britain in a weaker position to withstand a no-deal Brexit, undermining Theresa Mays no deal is better than a bad deal brinkmanship with Brussels.

Authorities have not even got as far as selecting the locations for the overflow lorry parks, with detailed proposals only set to be made public for consultation at the start of next year, 2019.

The delays to the project comes after the government scrapped advanced plans for an overflow lorry park at Stanford West, near Folkestone, in November last year, after being challenged over it in the courts. At the time, it was reported that a new solution would be ready by March 2019, but the timetable appears to have slipped again, with no date now set for completion.

Former transport secretary Lord Adonis said the governments planning had been ostrich-like, while a spokesperson for Highways England said they would attempt to avoid disruption.

If Britain cannot reach a deal with the European Union it will crash out in March 2019 with no transition period and will immediately face customs checks and paperwork for the millions of trucks that pour off ferries and Channel Tunnel shuttles every year.

This failure to invest in  or prepare for  Brexit is emblematic of a Government that seems incapable of taking its own policies seriously Lord Adonis, former transport secretary

In recent weeks the Department for Transport unveiled contingency plans to convert part of the M20 motorway carriageway into a lorry park as a temporary stopgap  causing huge disruption to motorists and freight.

The threat of a no deal is looming larger than ever in Brussels, with no significant progress for months, issues thought to be settled in December rearing their heads again, and EU officials describing the UKs approach as fantasy.

Lord Adonis, a supporter for the Best For Britain anti-Brexit campaign, told The Independent that Britain was being left dangerously vulnerable by the governments lack of preparations.

This failure to invest in  or prepare for  Brexit is emblematic of a government that seems incapable of taking its own policies seriously, he said.

These delays may well end up causing queues of lorries for miles and miles, clogging up Kent and beyond and causing shortages of goods in our supermarkets.

This is just one of a number of areas where the governments ostrich-like behaviour is leaving Britain dangerously vulnerable. I have just visited Rotterdam to see for myself the chaos that Brexit will cause our international trade.

Though Brexiteers have been keen to stress that they are leaving the EU rather than Europe, there are a number of major physical changes that will be need to be made in time for the UKs departure whether or not a deal is reached.

Theresa May has ruled out membership of the single market and customs union, meaning traders will face customs and regulatory checks upon entering the UK from Europe. This will require the expansion of physical infrastructure at ports and airports. Though the government wants a two-year transition period to give it time to prepare for Brexit, there will be none in the event of a no deal.

As part of the preparations, the Highways Agency says it wants to develop one or more lorry-holding areas to reduce the congestion in Kent caused by cross-Channel disruption, with the M20 and M2 motorways into Dover the focus of expansion. The new infrastructure is at the very early planning stage, however.

The Highways Agency does not mention Brexit in its consultation document on the new lorry parks, referring euphemistically instead to disruptive events that could cause them to be needed.

Road infrastructure in the region already regularly goes over capacity in the event of poor weather or industrial action, and Kent Police have developed an approach called Operation Stack where part of the M20 motorway is converted into a temporary lorry park. The procedure has been implemented dozens of times in the last few decades.

As well as the planned construction work on the south coast, the Home Office also revealed at the end of March that it was facing the task of recruiting an extra 1,000 border staff for Brexit.

Other countries that see a lot of trade with Britain are also making similar preparations. The Netherlands is recruiting over 700 customs officers for the port of Rotterdam and Schipol airport, major hubs that connect the UK to world markets. The port of Rotterdam itself predicts 9km of traffic jams on its side of the channel in the event of a no deal scenario.

A consultation document drawn up by the Highways Agency says: Forecasts tell us that trafc is expected to increase on the M20/A20 and M2/A2. The number of lorries travelling to and from the Kent ports is also expected to increase significantly.

Brexit so far: in pictures Show all 53 1 /53 Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit campaign Boris Johnson led the VoteLeave campaign PA Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit campaign Boris Johnson MP, Labour MP Gisela Stuart and UKIP MP Douglas Carswell address the people of Stafford in Market Square during the Vote Leave Brexit Battle Bus tour on 17 May 2016. Their lead line on the tour was: We send the EU 350 million a week, let's fund our NHS instead. Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Voting day A man shelters from the rain as he arrives at a polling station in London on 23 June 2016. Millions of Britons voted in the referendum on whether to stay in or leave the European Union AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Referendum results Leader of Ukip, Nigel Farage, reacts at the Leave EU referendum party at Millbank Tower in central London as results indicated that it was likely the UK would leave the European Union AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Protesting the result A young couple painted as EU flags and a man with a sign reading Im not leaving protest outside Downing Street against the voters decision to leave the EU on 24 June 2016 Getty Brexit so far: in pictures David Cameron resigns British Prime Minister David Cameron resigns on the steps of 10 Downing Street on 24 June 2016 after the results of the EU referendum were declared and the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Theresa May Becomes the new Conservative Party leader Theresa May receives a kiss from her husband Philip, after becoming the new Conservative Party leader on 11 July 2016. May became Prime Minister two days later and although she voted to remain in the referendum was keen to lead Britains Brexit talks after her only rival in the race to succeed David Cameron pulled out unexpectedly. May was left as the only contender standing after the withdrawal from the leadership race of Andrea Leadsom, who faced criticism for suggesting she was more qualified to be prime minister because she had children AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Lancaster House keynote speech on Brexit British Prime Minister Theresa May delivers her keynote speech on Brexit at Lancaster House in London on 17 January 2017. Where she spoke about her offer to introduce a transition period after the UK formally leaves the European Union in March 2019. Despite repeating the pro-Brexit mantra of no deal is better than a bad deal, the Prime Minister claimed she wanted a tone of trust between the negotiators and said Britain was leaving the EU but not Europe. She said there should be a clear double lock needed for the transitional period to make sure businesses had time to prepare for changes to their trading relationships with the EU Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Triggering of Article 50 British Prime Minister Theresa May in the cabinet, sitting below a painting of Britain's first Prime Minister Robert Walpole, signs the official letter to European Council President Donald Tusk invoking Article 50 and the United Kingdom's intention to leave the EU on 29 March 2017 Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Gibraltar nonsense Tensions have risen over Brexit negotiations for the Rock of Gibraltar. The European Council has said Gibraltar would be included in a trade deal between London and Brussels only with the agreement of Spain. While former Conservative leader Michael Howard claimed that Theresa May would be prepared to go to war to protect the territory. Spain's foreign minister stepped in only to assert that there was no need for the dispute Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Shock snap election Soon after triggering Article 50, Theresa May called on 18 April 2017 for a snap general election. The election would be on 8 June and it came as a shock move to many, with her reasoning to try to bolster her position before tough talks on leaving the EU AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Dissolution of Parliament for General Election Campaign Prime Minister Theresa May makes a statement in Downing Street after returning from Buckingham Palace on 3 May 2017. The Prime Minister visited the Queen to ask for the dissolution of Parliament signalling the official start to the general election campaign Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Conservatives lose parliamentary majority An arrangement of British daily newspapers showing front page stories about the exit poll results of the snap general election. British Prime Minister Theresa May faced pressure to resign on 9 June 2017 after losing her parliamentary majority, plunging the country into uncertainty as Brexit talks loomed. The pound fell sharply amid fears the Conservative leader would be unable to form a government AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Labour gains Britains opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn gives a tumbs up as he arrives at Labour headquarters in central London on 9 June 2017 after the snap general election results showed a hung parliament with Labour gains and the Conservatives losing their majority AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit negotiations begin Brexit Minister David Davis and European Commission member in charge of Brexit negotiations Michel Barnier address a press conference at the end of the first day of Brexit negotiations in Brussels on 19 June 2017 AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures May speaks in Florence British Prime Minister Theresa May speaks on 22 September 2017, in Florence. May sought to unlock Brexit talks after Brussels demanded more clarity on the crunch issues of budget payments and EU citizens' rights AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures EU council summit  insufficient progress German Chancellor Angela Merkel joins other EU leaders for a breakfast meeting during an EU summit in Brussels on 20 October 2017. The EU spoke about Brexit and announced that insufficient progress had been made AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures DUP derails settlement on the withdrawal part of Brexit DUP Deputy Leader Nigel Dodds walks off after speaking to members of the media as a protester holding flags shouts after him outside the Houses of Parliament on 5 December 2017. British Prime Minister Theresa May was forced to pull out of a deal with Brussels after the DUP said it would not accept terms which see Northern Ireland treated differently from the rest of the UK Getty Brexit so far: in pictures May suffers defeat over EU (Withdrawal) Bill Theresa May suffers defeat in parliament over EU (Withdrawal) Bill on 13 December 2017. The Government was defeated by Conservative rebels and Labour MPs in a vote on its key piece of Brexit legislation. MPs amended the EU (Withdrawal) Bill against Theresa May's will, guaranteeing Parliament a meaningful vote on any Brexit deal she agrees with Brussels. Ms May's whips applied pressure on Conservative rebels who remained defiant in the Commons throughout the day and in the end the Government was defeated by 309 votes to 305 Brexit so far: in pictures EU council summit  sufficient progress Britain's Prime minister Theresa May arrives to attend the first day of a European union summit in Brussels on 14 December 2017. European leaders discussed Brexit and announced there was finally sufficient progress at the end of the two days AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures The game moves to transition Brexit Secretary David Davis gives evidence on developments in European Union divorce talks to the Commons Exiting the EU Committee in Portcullis House, London, on 24 January 2018 PA Brexit so far: in pictures Trade deal is what May wants French President Emmanuel Macron gestures to Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May after they hold a press conference at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, on 18 January 2018. May and Macron agreed a new border security deal, through which the UK will pay more to France to stop migrants trying to reach British shores on 18 January 2018 AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Transition period agreed The UK and EU agree terms for Brexit transition period on 19 March, 2018 Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures No agreement on Irish border The EU and UK however failed to reach an agreement on the Irish border during the successful talks on other Brexit issues AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures EU attacks Mays fantasy strategy For months after the March deal is struck there is little significant progress in talks. One senior EU official tears into Britains fantasy negotiating strategy and accuses Theresa May of not even having a position on a variety of important issue Getty Brexit so far: in pictures UK releases Ireland plan Britain releases a new customs plan to solve the Northern Ireland border but Michel Barnier says it leaves unanswered questions and would not prevent a hard border EbS Brexit so far: in pictures Chequers plan agreed The cabinet agrees on a plan known as the "Chequers deal" on July 6 2018. The plan seeks regulatory alignment on goods and food, divergence on services, freedom from the European Courts of Justice and an end to free movement. Many were surprised that the hard Brexiteers of the cabinet would agree to this plan PA Brexit so far: in pictures Chequers plan sparks resignations Brexit Secretary David Davis and Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and numerous ministers resign in the days following the Chequers agreement Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures Davis out, Raab in On 9 July, Dominic Raab replaces David Davis as Brexit Secretary. Raab is a keen Brexiteer and was a housing minister before taking over from Davis Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures Barnier's "deal like no other" EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier claims on August 29 2018 that they are prepared to offer Britain a trade deal like no other, though he stressed that they will not divide or change the single market to accommodate Britain AP Brexit so far: in pictures "My deal or no deal" In an interview on Panorama on September 17, the Prime Minister insists that any Brexit deal will be offered to the EU on her terms. She asserts this amongst continued attacks on her approach to Brexit by Boris Johnson and the European Research Group, headed by Jacob Rees Mogg BBC/Jeff Overs Brexit so far: in pictures EU leaders reject Chequers Quite the blow was dealt to the Prime Minister at a EU leaders summit in Salzburg on September 20. European Council President Donald Tusk stated that the Chequers deal "will not work" Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures May demands respect Following the rejection of her Chequers plan the day before, the Prime Minister voiced her anger that the EU had dismissed it without offering an alternative. She stated that throughout this process, I have treated the EU with nothing but respect. The UK expects the same. A good relationship at the end of this process depends on it." Getty Brexit so far: in pictures People's Vote march As the People's Vote campaign and The Independent's Final Say campaign gain traction, 700,000 people turn out in London to demand a final say on the UK's Brexit deal on October 20 2018 PA Brexit so far: in pictures More resignations As the Prime Minister settles on a Brexit deal, Brexit secretary Dominic Raab resigns along with Work and Pensions secretary Esther McVey and many other ministers Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Final Say petitions delivered to Downing Street People's Vote supporting MPs Chukka Umunna, Justine Greening and Caroline Lucas and The Independent editor Christian Broughton deliver over a million signatures in favour of a People's Vote to the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street on December 3 2018 PA Brexit so far: in pictures May delays vote On December 10, the Prime Minister delayed the vote on her Brexit deal as it was near certain not to pass through the Commons due to Tory rebels and lack of DUP support AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures No confidence motion Tory MPs triggered a confidence vote in the Prime Minister on December 12. She won by 200 votes to 117 Reuters Brexit so far: in pictures Commons rejects the deal Following the delay, the Prime Minister's deal was rejected in the Commons by a historic 230 votes AFP Brexit so far: in pictures Corbyn tables a no confidence motion Following the rejection of the Prime Minister's deal, opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn tabled a motion of no confidence in the government, which the government won by a margin of 19 AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Plan B The Prime Minister won the support of the commons to return to Brussels to renegotiate the backstop on January 29. In the same sitting, MPs also voted against a no-deal Brexit in a non-legally binding motion PA Brexit so far: in pictures EU council president savages Brexit campaigners who failed to plan for departure: Special place in hell There is a special place in hell for pro-Brexit campaigners who demanded Britain leave the EU without explaining how it should happen, Donald Tusk has said. The European Council president launched the scathing attack as he accused anti-EU campaigners of pushing for Brexit without even a sketch of a plan how to carry it out safely. Mr Tusk also dismissed suggestions that the EU could reopen negotiations over the controversial Northern Ireland backstop, dealing a blow to Theresa Mays hopes of securing fresh concessions as she tries to get her exit deal through parliament. Speaking in Brussels alongside Irish taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Mr Tusk said: Ive been wondering what a special place in hell looks like for people who promoted Brexit without even a sketch of a plan how to carry it out safely. He also tweeted the accusation moments later Getty Brexit so far: in pictures EU and UK announce talks to restart after Theresa May visits Brussels Both have agreed to restart Brexit talks to find a way through the deadlock in Westminster, following a visit by Theresa May to Brussels. In a joint statement the British government and European Commission said Ms May had had a robust but constructive meeting with president Jean-Claude Juncker, and that the pair would meet again before the end of the month. But the EU again refused to reopen the withdrawal agreement and its controversial backstop  with any negotiations expected to focus on the future relationship between the UK and EU instead Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Brexit strategy lost MPs voted down May's Brext plans, with a majority of 45. The prime minister did not appear in parliament to see another defeat PA Brexit so far: in pictures Labour and Conservative MPs resign and create the Independent Group Back row of Chris Leslie, Gavin Shuker, Chuka Umunna and Mike Gapes, middle row of Angela Smith, Luciana Berger and Ann Coffey and front row of Sarah Wollaston, Heidi Allen, Anna Soubry and Joan Ryan PA Brexit so far: in pictures Non-biding votes on amendments to Brexit motion On February 27 he house held a series of votes, unanimously calling for the UK and EU to guarantee citizens rights in a no-deal scenario AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Attorney General publishes legal advice A hammer blow for May as Geoffrey Cox said her renegotiated deal can still leave UK in backstop against its will. Mr Cox did say the prime ministers efforts had reduced the risk of the UK being trapped in the backstop indefinitely. MPs went on to vote against her deal by 391 to 242 UK Parliament/PA Brexit so far: in pictures No-deal off the table MPs rejected a no-deal Brexit by 43 votes on March 13, with cabinet ministers rebelling in another humiliating defeat for Theresa May. A day later they voted in favour of the prime minister seeking an extension to Article 50 AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures House speaker bans May from third Commons vote on same Brexit deal John Bercow sensationally told Theresa May he would stop her making another attempt to pass her Brexit deal unless she has secured changes. The Speaker said a further meaningful vote would be ruled out of order if the motion was the same or substantially the same  under an ancient convention to stop the government bullying parliament on issues MPs have rejected Parliament Live Brexit so far: in pictures May writes to Tusk The prime minister wrote to Donald Tusk, president of the European Council, to ask for a three-month extension to give her more time to try to get her deal through parliament. However the European Commission advises the EU27 should offer a short extension to May 23 or a longer one meaning the UK would participate in European elections 10 Downing Street/AFP/Getty Brexit so far: in pictures European Council summit Theresa Mays request to extend triggering Article 50 until the end of June was rejected by the EU, and instead offered a shorter time frame. She accepted the offer of a delay until May 22 if her withdrawal deal is approved by Parliament. If MPs rejected it for a third time, the EU said Britain must propose a new plan by April 12. Ms May said she will not support a long delay because it would mean Britain participating in elections for the European Parliament Getty Brexit so far: in pictures Brussels confirms preparations for a no-deal Brexit are completed They warned that it is increasingly likely the UK will crash out. In a statement the European Commission (EC) said preparedness and contingency work, which the EC has been conducting since December 2017, was now finished. The announcement came days after EU leaders agreed to a request by Theresa May to extend the UKs Brexit date AFP Brexit so far: in pictures May resigns Reuters

Since severe weather, equipment failure and other disruptive events can never be completely avoided, the risk is that Operation Stack will be implemented more frequently if action is not taken. Without action, the safety and journey time reliability of everybody using the motorways, major and local roads in Kent is likely to be affected.

A Highways England spokesperson said: We are clear that the disruption that people in Kent suffered in summer 2015 should never happen again.

We are starting a public information exercise soon which will take a completely fresh look at long term solutions for Operation Stack and will ask people living, travelling and working in Kent for their views on what theyd like to see. The date these measures will be in place will depend on what option is chosen.

In the meantime, we are taking steps to increase the resilience of the road network, including a contraflow on the M20 which will be available for use early next year. This will increase the options available if there is the need to deal with any potential disruption.More than 350 mosques and Muslim organisations have written to the Conservative Party backing calls for a formal inquiry following a number of allegations of Islamophobia, The Independent can reveal.

The calls mirror and endorse those made by the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), who wrote to the party last week urging a full audit to tackle the more than weekly occurrences of Islamophobia from candidates and representatives of the party.

Now 11 separate umbrella organisations from all over the UK including Wales, Belfast, Scotland and Manchester have backed the calls for an urgent inquiry after a dozen examples of Islamophobia from party members in a two-month period from April were revealed.

An MCB spokesperson said: We very much welcome the many councils of mosques who have written in support of our call for an inquiry into this issue.

It reflects the importance that this issue holds in Muslim communities across the UK and the breadth of support for the Muslim Council of Britain.

The latest revelation comes as Sajid Javid denied there was a problem with Islamophobia in the party on the BBCs Andrew Marr Show.

The home secretary instead attacked the MCB, claiming it did not represent British Muslims and had associations with extremism.

The claims are strongly denied by the MCB and its secretary general, Harun Khan, responded to the comments saying it indicated the party had no interest in dealing with this matter.

He said: Rather than address the serious concerns raised by our message, Mr Javid has chosen to shoot the messenger.

We have identified real weekly cases of Islamophobia in the Conservative Party, which the party has even acknowledged by suspending members.

These real concerns of Islamophobia are shared by two Conservative Muslim peers, as well as voices across the spectrum, many of them Conservatives.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 1 October 2021 A driver talks to members of the media after passing his HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) driving test at National Driving Centre in Croydon, south London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 30 September 2021 The centrepiece One Thousand Springs by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota is seen ahead of the beginning of the Japan Festival, a celebration of the countrys plants, art and culture running from 2-31 October, at Kew Gardens in London PA UK news in pictures 29 September 2021 The family of Betty Campbell unveil the bronze sculpture of her during the unveiling of the statue in Central Square, Cardiff, of Betty Campbell, Wales' first black headteacher PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2021 A sign referring to the lack of fuel is placed at the entrance to a petrol station in London AP UK news in pictures 27 September 2021 Police officers detain a protester from Insulate Britain occupying a roundabout leading from the M25 motorway to Heathrow Airport in London PA UK news in pictures 26 September 2021 Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer watches the Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur match at The Font pub in Brighton PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2021 Scottish pro-independence supporters hold a march and rally outside the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, Scotland Getty Images UK news in pictures 24 September 2021 Police officers remove two protesters from the top of a tanker, as Insulate Britain block the A20 in Kent, which provides access to the Port of Dover in Kent. The environmental activists have moved location after been banned from campaigning on the M25 motorway in London PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2021 Gabriella, the seven year old daughter of imprisoned British-Iranian Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, joins in a game on a giant snakes and ladders board in Parliament Square, to show the ups and downs of her mothers case to mark the 2,000 days she has been detained in Iran AP UK news in pictures 22 September 2021 A new sign hangs on the Millicent Fawcett statue after it was altered by CrackTheCrises coalition activists to highlight the climate crisis as a feminist struggle in Parliament Square in London EPA UK news in pictures 21 September 2021 Gabriella Diment prepares a monumental bronze patinated fibreglass wall sculpture depicting household cavalry soldiers on horseback which is expected to be sold for 12,000-18,000 when it goes up for auction at Summers Place Auctions in Billinghurst, Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2021 Florist Judith Blacklock puts the finishing touches to a floral carousel installation in Halkin Arcade, which she has designed with Neill Strain for the Belgravia in Bloom festival, running from September 20-26, in London PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2021 Bubbles surround Manchester Uniteds Cristiano Ronaldo before the match against West Ham at London Stadium Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 18 September 2021 Children take part in the Settrington Cup Pedal Car Race as motoring enthusiasts attend the Goodwood Revival, a three-day historic car racing festival in Goodwood, Chichester, Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2021 Hugo, 7, from London rides past a 4x7 metre rainbow arch, made entirely of recycled aluminium cans, which has been installed by recycling initiative 'Every Can Counts', in partnership with The City of London Corporation in front of St Paul's Cathedral in London, to encourage members of the public to recycle their drinks cans ahead of recycling week, which starts on 20 September PA UK news in pictures 16 September 2021 Sheikeh MOhammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, leader of Abu Dhabi, leaves Downing Street after meeting with Boris Johnson PA UK news in pictures 15 September 2021 Children pose by ice sculptures depicting people collecting water by charity Water Aid to show the fragility of water and the threat posed by climate change in London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 14 September 2021 Heavy rain covers the A149 near Kings Lynn in Norfolk PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2021 Luke Jerram's 'Museum of the Moon' at Durham Cathedral PA UK news in pictures 12 September 2021 Inspirational young fundraiser Tobias Weller crosses the finish line, near his home in Sheffield, as he completes his latest epic feat where he swam and triked his way to the end of his awesome year-long Ironman Challenge. This is the third challenge Tobias, who has cerebral palsy and autism, has completed, raising more than 150,000 for his school and Sheffield Children Hospitals charity PA UK news in pictures 11 September 2021 British player Emma Raducanu, holds up the US Open championship trophy winning the women's singles final of the US Open in New York AP UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA

The MCBs calls for an inquiry into Islamophobia have been backed by Baroness Syeda Warsi, the former chairman of the Conservative Party, and Lord Mohamed Sheikh.

Lord Sheikh, who served as an adviser to David Cameron, has written directly to Theresa May describing the issue as a matter of grave concern to the many Muslim members and supporters of the party, The Independent revealed.

In his letter to No 10, Lord Sheikh highlights Zac Goldsmiths London mayoral election campaign in 2016, Bob Blackman MP hosting a parliamentary visit by Tapan Ghosh, an Indian Hindu nationalist, and the lack of Muslim candidates in the last general election.

In response to the MCBs calls for an inquiry a Conservative spokesman said: We take all such incidents seriously, which is why we have suspended all those who have behaved inappropriately and launched immediate investigations.Michael Gove should replace Theresa May as prime minister because she cannot deliver Brexit, a donor to the Conservative Party has said.

Crispin Odey, a hedge fund manager who backed the Leave campaign, said Ms May, who voted Remain, couldn't be trusted to "carry Brexit through".

Instead, he said Mr Gove, the environment minister, had the skills to be prime minister.

 Michael Gove says there are 'significant question marks' over timescale and deliverability of customs arrangement

Mr Odey told the newspaper: "What is true is that you have a whole lot of people who didn't want this to happen who are in charge of it happening... I would go to Gove.

"Hes the only minister who is still being a minister. Michael has got lots of attributes that make him a non-traditional Tory. He is very aware that he has to appeal not just to the wealthy, but also more broadly."

The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Show all 8 1 /8 The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Post-Brexit immigration workers sorting radishes on a production line at a farm in Norfolk. One possible post-Brexit immigration scheme could struggle to channel workers towards less attractive roles - while another may heighten the risk of labour exploitation, a new report warns. PA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Customs union A key point in the negotiations remains Britain's access to, or withdrawal from, the EU customs union. Since the referendum there has been hot debate over the meaning of Brexit: would it entail a full withdrawal from the existing agreement, known as hard Brexit, or the soft version in which we would remain part of a common customs area for most goods, as Turkey does? No 10 has so far insisted that Brexit means Brexit and that Britain will be leaving the customs union, but may be inclined to change its position once the potential risks to the UKs economic outlook become clearer. Alamy The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Northern Ireland-Irish border Though progress was made last year, there has still been no solid agreement on whether there should be a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. To ensure borderless travel on the island, the countries must be in regulatory alignment and therefore adhere to the same rules as the customs union. In December, the Conservative Partys coalition partners, the DUP, refused a draft agreement that would place the UK/EU border in the Irish Sea due to its potential to undermine the union. May has promised that would not be the case and has suggested that a specific solution would need to be found. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Transition period Despite protests from a small number of Conservative MPs, the Government and the EU are largely in agreement that a transitional period is needed after Brexit. The talks, however, have reached an impasse. Though May has agreed that the UK will continue to contribute to the EU budget until 2021, the PM wants to be able to select which laws made during this time the UK will have to adhere to. Chief negotiator Michel Barnier has said the UK must adopt all of the laws passed during the transition, without any input from British ministers or MEPs. EPA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Rights of EU citizens living the UK The Prime Minister has promised EU citizens already living in the UK the right to live and work here after Brexit, but the rights of those who arrive after Brexit day remains unclear. May insists that those who arrive during the transition period should not be allowed to stay, whereas the EU believe the cut-off point should be later. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Future trade agreement (with the EU) Despite this being a key issue in negotiations, the Government has yet to lay out exactly what it wants from a trade deal with the EU. Infighting within the Cabinet has prevented a solid position from being reached, with some MPs content that "no deal is better than a bad deal" while others rally behind single market access. The EU has already confirmed that access to the single market would be impossible without the UK remaining in the customs union. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Future trade agreements (internationally) The Government has already begun trying to woo foreign leaders into prospective trade agreements, with various high profile state visits to China, India and Canada for May, and the now infamous invitation to US President Donald Trump to visit London. However the UK cannot make trade agreements with another country while it is still a member of the EU, and the potential loss of trade with the world's major powers is a source of anxiety for the PM. The EU has said the UK cannot secure trade deals during the transition period. EPA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Financial services Banks in the UK will be hit hard regardless of the Brexit outcome. The EU has refused to give British banks passporting rights to trade within the EU, dashing hopes of a special City deal. However according to new reports Germany has suggested allowing trade on the condition that the UK continues paying into the EU budget even after the transition period. Getty

He said Ms May, whose cabinet remains divided on key issues about Britain's future relationship with the bloc, wasn't suited to politics: As someone said about May, she should have joined the civil service, rather than becoming a politician.

"She is perfect for that, but she cant make a decision. So there is no leadership."

Mr Odey was a prominent supporter of Britain's withdrawal from the EU, signing a letter alongside hedge fund manager Paul Marshall backing the main Brexit campaign group.

He told The Observer that Britain should start striking trade deals before it leaves the European Union, in breach of the bloc's rules.

"We've got to have that self-confidence to make breaches. There's no point in voting for freedom if you don't know what to do when you're free," he said.

Downing Street has declined to comment on the report.The leader of Northern Irelands Democratic Unionist Party has claimed Sinn Fein voters are now defecting because of her groups staunch anti-abortion stance.

Arlene Foster claimed republican voters had been in contact in the wake of Irelands landslide referendum decriminalising terminations, saying they now want to back the DUP as the only party that supports the unborn.

The comments were dismissed by Sinn Fein which is considering reforming its approach to abortion in the light of the referendum, but they also carried a clear message for Theresa May in London.

Recommended May refuses to push Northern Ireland abortion reform amid DUP pressure

The prime minister is under pressure to intervene in Northern Ireland to relax abortion laws, but in doing so would risk a backlash from the DUP whose MPs are propping up her government in Westminster.

In an interview broadcast on Skys Sophy Ridge on Sunday, Ms Foster said there were people across Northern Ireland who who feel so very strongly about this issue that they will cast their vote on that basis.

She said: I have had emails from people in the Republic of Ireland feeling very disenfranchised about what has happened in the Republic of Ireland.

I have had emails from nationalists and republicans in Northern Ireland not quite believing what is going on and saying they will be voting for the DUP because they believe we are the only party that supports the unborn.

 Irish abortion referendum: The moment it was announced Ireland voted 66% in favour of repealing the eighth amendment

Some 66.4 per cent of Irish voters in Mays referendum in Ireland backed the repeal of the controversial eighth amendment of the Irish constitution, which bans abortion in all but exceptional circumstances.

But Ms Forster criticised some of the celebrations by those who supported the repeal, saying she found it quite distasteful to see people dancing about on the streets.

They will be voting for the DUP because they believe we are the only party that supports the unborn DUP leader Arlene Foster

Sinn Fein currently only supports abortion in extreme cases, like foetal abnormality, but is due to consider whether it should now support unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks at its conference later this month.

A cross-party group of Westminster politicians is also pushing for London to intervene to relax abortion laws in Northern Ireland, by repealing the Offences against the Person Act 1861.

Labour backbencher Stella Creasy, who backs the move, told the Andrew Marr Show, that the current law placed women in the same category as rapists.

She said: The [Offences against the Person Act] puts abortion in the same category as rape, child stealing and using gun powder to blow people up.

 Irish abortion referendum: Celebrations at Dublin count centre as results come in

What that means is that right now in Northern Ireland, where there are no exemptions to this law, if you are raped and you become pregnant as a result of that rape, and you seek a termination, you would face a longer prison sentence than the person who attacked you.

She argued that reform from Westminster would still be respectful of devolution, because it is about repealing a piece of UK legislation rather than intervening directly in any Northern Irish regulation.

Ms Creasy also criticised Ms Foster for saying she found celebrations of the referendum win distasteful, saying: I would suggest that somebody who intends to go and march with the Orange Order in Fife at the end of this month may want to reflect on the value of making comments about other peoples protests and decisions to join people.

But Ms May is unlikely to give whole-hearted support to intervention in Northern Ireland, because her fragile administration depends on the support of the 10 DUP MPs.

The devolved Stormont assembly has not sat for months following a row between the DUP and Sinn Fein over a botched green energy scheme, but Downing Street is desperate to restore the assembly so that it can deal with this issue in Belfast.

No 10 has repeatedly said that any reform in Northern Ireland is an issue for Northern Ireland. A source said the row shows one of the important reasons we need a functioning executive back up and running.Home secretary Sajid Javid has admitted there is a perception problem with including foreign students in the governments target to reduce net migration.

In the strongest signal yet that the current system championed by Theresa May is on its way out, Mr Javid said he empathised with concerns that it looked unwelcoming to people wanting to study in the UK.

He also diverged from Ms May's approach by confirming he would push ahead with reviewing aspects of the hostile environment policy and said he also sees the problem with visa caps limiting the number of doctors coming into the country.

Recommended May must address immigration policy to improve universities

In a key section of his first big television interview since taking up his job, Mr Javid was only able to offer lukewarm backing to his partys goal of reducing net migration to the tens of thousands  a target The Independent is campaigning to abolish.

It puts him on a collision course with Downing Street, which has steadfastly maintained that the target surviving since Ms May's days in the Home Office will stay in place in the future.

The prime minister has been the main block to reforming aspects of government immigration policy, resisting calls for change despite them coming from almost every part of her cabinet and beyond.

Speaking to BBC 1s Andrew Marr Show, Mr Javid said he understood the arguments for lifting foreign students out of the net migration data.

 Sajid Javid opposes 'hostile environment' approach to UK immigration opting instead for a 'compliant environment'

He said: There is a perception problem around this.

Mr Javid pointed out that as long as the students arriving leave at the end of their studies, there numbers would not have a great impact on net migration data in the long term.

But he went on: I empathise with that point [that it could look unwelcoming] and it is something that I have long considered.

It is not my most urgent priority when it comes to immigration  but it is something I would like to look at again.

Ms May has fought for students to be recorded within net migration since her time at the Home Office.

As prime minister she has continued to bat away calls for change from international trade secretary Liam Fox, chancellor Philip Hammond, foreign secretary Boris Johnson and leader of the Scottish Tories Ruth Davidson.

 Theresa May said in 2013 that 'Go Home' immigration vans were 'too blunt an instrument'

Mr Javid also appeared to confirm recent reports that he favours an easing on visa caps that can limit the number of medical professionals coming into the UK.

He and Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, were reported to be pushing for a temporary measure exempting doctors and nurses from any quota until more can be trained in the UK.

In his interview he said he sees the problem with doctors being hit by caps and said the system would be reviewed, veering away from the Downing Street script on the issue.

He immediately won support from other Tories on Twitter, with South Cambridgeshire MP Heidi Allen thanking him for his intervention, while chair of the Commons Health Committee Sarah Wollaston MP called for visa restrictions to be scrapped.

The home secretary first signalled he would begin to shift elements of the UKs immigration policy on his first outing in the Commons, when he said he did not like using the word hostile to describe his approach to illegal migrants, a term used by Ms May for many years.

Pride and prejudice: The Victorian roots of a very British ambivalence to immigration Show all 3 1 /3 Pride and prejudice: The Victorian roots of a very British ambivalence to immigration Pride and prejudice: The Victorian roots of a very British ambivalence to immigration 405361.bin GETTY IMAGES Pride and prejudice: The Victorian roots of a very British ambivalence to immigration 405362.bin GETTY IMAGES Pride and prejudice: The Victorian roots of a very British ambivalence to immigration 405363.bin GETTY IMAGES

Following the Windrush scandal which saw some people in the UK legally, being caught up in the clampdown on illegal immigration, the whole approach was thrust into the spotlight.

Mr Javid said on Marr: Im going to look at how it is being implemented, I want to review aspects of the policy.

Ive already made some changes, I have suspended certain things. Certainly, opening bank accounts, and whether you can or cannot as an illegal immigrant, Im not sure that the data that we have is accurate enough so I have suspended that for the time being.

However, he said he still wanted to maintain a distinction between welcoming people in the UK who are here legally and not tolerating illegal immigration.

Mr Javid also said that overall net migration is still too high and needs to be addressed by policies to bring it down to a sustainable level.

Asked if the tens of thousands was still a commitment he was happy with, he said: It is a commitment in our manifesto  we are happy with our manifesto.

Earlier this week, Ms Davidson doubled down on her call for the tens of thousands target to be scrapped.

She said in a speech: I see neither the sense nor the need to stick to an immigration figure devised nearly a decade ago, which has never been met and does not fit the requirements of the country.

Setting an immigration target reduced to the tens of thousands is one thing when unemployment is running at 8 per cent. Refusing to review it when the country nears full employment and sectors are reporting skills shortages is quite another.

The Independent, along with the Open Britain group, has been running the Drop the Target campaign to scrap the tens of thousands net migration policy.Up to 2.6 million children whose parents are on benefits could be missing out on free school meals by 2022, the shadow education minister will warn.

Angela Rayner will tell a GMB union conference on Sunday that the Governments claims on school meals are falling apart after changes to eligibility under Universal Credit (UC).

When the system was first introduced in 2013, all children of recipients  who were all unemployed  were eligible for free school meals (FSM), as they would have been under the old system.

But in April the criteria was tightened based on income. In England, the net earnings threshold will be 7,400 whereas in Northern Ireland it will be 14,000.

A government technical note published in May said that if the change had not been made, around half of all (state school) children would become eligible for FSM and the meals would no longer be targeted at those who need them the most.

It said that in 2017 around 1.1 million disadvantaged children were eligible and received a free school meal, some 14 per cent of all state-school pupils.

But if the change had not been made the number of additional children who would have been eligible was between 2,300,000 and 2,600,000 by 2022.

Recommended Theresa May is right to take school meals off primary school pupils

In a speech to the GMBs Public Services Conference in Brighton on Sunday, Mrs Rayner will urge the Government to adopt Labours plan for free school meals for all primary school children.

She will say: Ministers said time and time again that no one would lose a meal, only for the IFS to reveal that one in eight children who were eligible will be stripped of their entitlement under the Universal Credit.

Now it appears that there would be millions more who could have had a meal but will be denied.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 5 October 2021 Members of Insulate Britain outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, before a hearing over the injunction banning the environmental activists from blocking the M25 PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2021 A delegate passes a street cleaner on the second day of the annual Conservative Party Conference being held at the Manchester Central convention centre AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2021 Margaret Thatcher-themed mugs for sale at the annual Conservative Party conference in Manchester EPA UK news in pictures 2 October 2021 A couple make their way through a flooded underpass in Bristol as a yellow weather warning for rain and wind is issued for parts of the UK Tom Wren/SWNS UK news in pictures 1 October 2021 A driver talks to members of the media after passing his HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) driving test at National Driving Centre in Croydon, south London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 30 September 2021 The centrepiece One Thousand Springs by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota is seen ahead of the beginning of the Japan Festival, a celebration of the countrys plants, art and culture running from 2-31 October, at Kew Gardens in London PA UK news in pictures 29 September 2021 The family of Betty Campbell unveil the bronze sculpture of her during the unveiling of the statue in Central Square, Cardiff, of Betty Campbell, Wales' first black headteacher PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2021 A sign referring to the lack of fuel is placed at the entrance to a petrol station in London AP UK news in pictures 27 September 2021 Police officers detain a protester from Insulate Britain occupying a roundabout leading from the M25 motorway to Heathrow Airport in London PA UK news in pictures 26 September 2021 Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer watches the Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur match at The Font pub in Brighton PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2021 Scottish pro-independence supporters hold a march and rally outside the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, Scotland Getty Images UK news in pictures 24 September 2021 Police officers remove two protesters from the top of a tanker, as Insulate Britain block the A20 in Kent, which provides access to the Port of Dover in Kent. The environmental activists have moved location after been banned from campaigning on the M25 motorway in London PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2021 Gabriella, the seven year old daughter of imprisoned British-Iranian Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, joins in a game on a giant snakes and ladders board in Parliament Square, to show the ups and downs of her mothers case to mark the 2,000 days she has been detained in Iran AP UK news in pictures 22 September 2021 A new sign hangs on the Millicent Fawcett statue after it was altered by CrackTheCrises coalition activists to highlight the climate crisis as a feminist struggle in Parliament Square in London EPA UK news in pictures 21 September 2021 Gabriella Diment prepares a monumental bronze patinated fibreglass wall sculpture depicting household cavalry soldiers on horseback which is expected to be sold for 12,000-18,000 when it goes up for auction at Summers Place Auctions in Billinghurst, Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2021 Florist Judith Blacklock puts the finishing touches to a floral carousel installation in Halkin Arcade, which she has designed with Neill Strain for the Belgravia in Bloom festival, running from September 20-26, in London PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2021 Bubbles surround Manchester Uniteds Cristiano Ronaldo before the match against West Ham at London Stadium Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 18 September 2021 Children take part in the Settrington Cup Pedal Car Race as motoring enthusiasts attend the Goodwood Revival, a three-day historic car racing festival in Goodwood, Chichester, Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2021 Hugo, 7, from London rides past a 4x7 metre rainbow arch, made entirely of recycled aluminium cans, which has been installed by recycling initiative 'Every Can Counts', in partnership with The City of London Corporation in front of St Paul's Cathedral in London, to encourage members of the public to recycle their drinks cans ahead of recycling week, which starts on 20 September PA UK news in pictures 16 September 2021 Sheikeh MOhammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, leader of Abu Dhabi, leaves Downing Street after meeting with Boris Johnson PA UK news in pictures 15 September 2021 Children pose by ice sculptures depicting people collecting water by charity Water Aid to show the fragility of water and the threat posed by climate change in London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 14 September 2021 Heavy rain covers the A149 near Kings Lynn in Norfolk PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2021 Luke Jerram's 'Museum of the Moon' at Durham Cathedral PA UK news in pictures 12 September 2021 Inspirational young fundraiser Tobias Weller crosses the finish line, near his home in Sheffield, as he completes his latest epic feat where he swam and triked his way to the end of his awesome year-long Ironman Challenge. This is the third challenge Tobias, who has cerebral palsy and autism, has completed, raising more than 150,000 for his school and Sheffield Children Hospitals charity PA UK news in pictures 11 September 2021 British player Emma Raducanu, holds up the US Open championship trophy winning the women's singles final of the US Open in New York AP UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters

Even now, the government refuses to release their own calculations in full.

Their claims on school funding have collapsed and now their story on school meals is falling apart.

The technical note was published on the Governments website after a Freedom of Information request for it by the GMB, the union said.

Ministers have said it was never their intention for the temporary arrangements to remain in place and that an estimated 50,000 more children will receive free school meals by 2022, compared with the old benefits system.

It comes after the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) warned in April that it expected there to be losers under changes introduced via UC, which sees six benefits rolled into one payment, despite 50,000 more children becoming eligible.

GMB general secretary Tim Roache said the policy was cruel, heartless and needless.

Are free school meals always a good thing? - London Live

He said: I cant believe theres even a debate about whether kids should go hungry or not.

In blunt and stark terms, this policy is taking food from the mouths of millions of children from poorer backgrounds.

Our members working in schools already encounter children with no food at home, they see packed lunches of no more than crisps or chocolate and buy snacks for their pupils out of their own pockets because too many parents are struggling to make ends meet.

Children and families minister, Nadhim Zahawi, said: Its right that we continue to support the most disadvantaged children.

Contrary to misleading statements, every child who currently receives a free school meal will continue to do so and as we have repeatedly made clear our data  which is publicly available  clearly shows that around 50,000 more children will benefit from free school meals by 2022.On Friday, a judge unsealed parts of the arrest warrant for Joseph DeAngelo - the 72-year-old former police officer who is accused of committing serial rape and murder across California beginning 40 years ago.

The heavily redacted document describes how police finally found the Golden State Killer suspect by his DNA  tracking Mr DeAngelo through a genealogy website and rooting through his trash.

But the majority of the warrant documents  dozen and dozens of pages  are devoted to retelling those long-ago crimes. Its a remarkable document, even if much of it is blacked out: a chronicle of a serial predator who travelled invisibly, attacked fearlessly and terrorised many victims with strange noises and bizarre drawings before closing in for the kill.

He may have stalked his victims through drainage ditches

The Golden State Killer was one of the most prolific predators in US history, sometimes invading different houses on consecutive nights, sometimes returning to the same neighbourhood so often that the people who lived there slept in shifts. He terrorised the suburbs of Sacramento, and, later in his spree, near Los Angeles, hundreds of miles to the south.

Again and again, the police affidavit mentions homes that back onto drainage channels, or back onto river levees, suggesting that the killer may have used the terrain to remain invisible  until he was ready for his victims to see him.

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To meet him was invariably terrifying

One victim woke in the middle of the night to the sound of wind chimes, police wrote. She looked out her bedroom window and saw a man trying to pry off the screen.

One woman was lying in bed with her 3-year-old son when she heard the hallway light switch on. Another woke at 2 am to a bright light shining straight into her face.

Sometimes, the Golden State Killer came silently, but often he seemed unconcerned with the clatter of his approach. And for too many victims, knowing that he was coming was not enough for them to escape.

 Sacramento DA: 'we found the needle in the haystack' after Golden State Killer caught in Sacramento

One woman, alerted to a suspicious vehicle in the neighbourhood, walked through her house, checking the doors, police wrote. When she turned around the suspect was standing there with a gun pointed at her.

Another - the same woman who had woken to a man trying to pull off her window screen - woke up her daughters and ran to her phone to call for help. Before she could dial, she heard a curtain rod fall to the floor, then looked up to see a mans silhouette standing in front of her.

When he attacked, he showed no fear

Though most of the attacks described in the affidavit are heavily redacted, whats left reads like a compendium of horror stories.

Take the second known attack, at a house near Sacramento on the early morning of July 16, 1976.

The man who lived there woke before dawn to go to work. He heard footsteps outside, in the back, by the pool.

He heard another noise a few minutes later, but didnt investigate, the affidavit reads.

It was still dark outside at 5 am when the man walked into his garage and hit the button to open the door.

As the door began to open, he heard footsteps again.

In the gap between the floor of the garage and slowly yawning door, a pair of hiking boots appeared. The man noticed that the soles of the boots looked unusually thick.

And then the man in boots was ducking under the garage door, coming straight at him. He wore a ski mask and gloves, and carried some sort of makeshift club.

The homeowner tried to get into his car, but there was not time before blows came crashing down on his head and body. He crawled under the vehicle to escape them.

The intruder tried to yank him out, pulling the mans pants halfway off in the struggle. Then he left, taking nothing but the mans wallet before he disappeared.

The man had been relatively fortunate. His daughter had moved out a few weeks before the attack, police wrote.

But the Golden State Killer returned to the neighbourhood the next night  to a house a few blocks away, where he found two teenage sisters asleep in their beds.

Bizarre incidents foreshadowed the first murders

The murders of Brian and Katie Maggiore in February 1978 marked a dark shift in the attackers habits. While its possible that he had killed or tried to kill before then (see below), he would stop leaving any victims alive shortly after he gunned down the married couple as they walked their dog in the Cordova Meadows subdivision, outside Sacramento.

Some have suggested that these first killings were haphazard - lacking the meticulous planning, brutally personal violence and sexual sadism of the Golden State Killers subsequent killings. But a police detective researched 30,000 criminal reports leading up to the Maggiores deaths and included in the affidavit a disturbing pattern of incidents in Cordova Meadows, almost as a prelude to the deaths.

A young couple in the neighbourhood told police they had come home one night, several weeks before the murders, to find their house broken into. Only the wifes underwear was missing. When they were broken into a second time, police wrote, nothing had been taken at all.

One woman kept finding shoe prints in her yard, and the gate constantly left open. More disturbing, police wrote, she found drawings left on her bedroom window that appeared to have been written in bodily fluids.

There were several other prowlings, break-ins and burglaries in Cordova Meadows that winter. Several residents in the neighbourhood received silent hang-up calls. One woman got such a call every night at 8 pm for a week straight - right up until the night of the murders of Brian and Katie Maggiore, and then never again.

Shortly after the murders, the Golden State Killer relocated to southern California, although it would be years before DNA evidence linked all the crimes.

He may have had a deadly warm-up act

Officially, the Golden State Killer is blamed for more than 50 rapes and 12 murders between 1976 and 1986.

But the affidavit hints at what has long been a theory among amateur investigators of his crimes - that he had a sort of warm-up act in 1974 and 1975, coinciding with Mr DeAngelos first job as a police officer.

In less than two years, an astonishing number of 120 burglaries took place in the tiny town of Visalia, California - about midway between the two hubs of the Golden State Killers later sprees, Sacramento and Los Angeles. Visalia was also a 10-minute drive from Exeter, where Mr DeAngelo worked as a patrol officer.

The Visalia Ransacker would typically break in when no one was home and take personal mementos, as would the Golden State Killer when the rape spree began two years later and hundreds of miles away.

But at least two incidents in Visalia turned violent.

In a paragraph that is almost entirely redacted, the affidavit mentions the shooting death of a college professor, Claude Snelling, who had confronted an intruder attempting to kidnap his daughter.

The affidavit also recounts the last night the burglar was seen in Visalia, at the end of 1975, and shortly before Mr DeAngelo moved north to the Sacramento area.

A police officer caught the burglar peeping through a window that night, according to the police report, his ski mask lifted up over his face.

After a brief chase, he turned, removed his mask entirely, and begged the officer not to hurt him.

The suspects voice [w]as juvenile and effeminate, reads the report. But as he raised one hand over his head, he kept the other in his jacket pocket.

Then, even as he begged the officer for mercy, the man pulled a handgun from the pocket and fired.

The officer was saved only because the bullet struck his flashlight, embedding in the battery. As he fell backwards, the prowler jumped a fence to escape.

This pattern of explosive violence followed by escape when cornered would repeat itself in the series, reads the affidavit - presumably referring to the many rapes and murders to come.

The Washington PostA US science teacher accused of feeding a sick puppy to a snapping turtle in front of his students has been charged with animal cruelty.

Robert Crosland faces up to six months in jail and a $5,000 (3,740) fine if convicted of the misdemeanour over the incident at Preston Junior High School in Idaho.

The turtle was seized by the Idaho State Department of Agriculture after the incident on 7 March and has since been humanely euthanised because it is considered an invasive species.

When the initial story was first reported, Mr Crosland was described as a bully who should not be allowed near impressionable young people by the UK charity People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta).

A petition calling for the teacher to be sacked for his sick and disturbing actions has now attracted nearly 190,000 signatures.

Fewer than 3,800 people have signed a rival petition to show our support for the man that taught us science in a new way and truly loves his job.

Mr Crosland fed the puppy to the snapping turtle in front of a small number of students after classes finished and not during regular school activities, according to superintendent Marc Gee.

We hope that any errors in judgement made by a teacher in this instance will not cause us to forget the years of care, effort, and passion the teacher has given to students in Preston School District, Mr Gee added.

The mother of two boys who were present told the Preston Citizen their children were more upset about the criticism of their teacher than the incident itself.

The puppy was dying, said Farahlyn Hansen. I felt like it was the more humane thing for Robert to do than to just leave it.

My kids are very upset about the way Robert is being portrayed in the news.

Hes spent his whole life showing kids how to care for and feed animals.

Former students told East Idaho News Mr Crosland had previously fed guinea pigs to snakes and turtles during class demonstrations.

He is a cool teacher who really brought science to life, one said. I loved his class because he had turtles and snakes and other cool things.

A picture appearing to show the teacher feeding a rat to a turtle features on another petition.

Robert Crosland dangles a rat in the turtle tank at Preston Junior High

Mr Crosland was charged on Friday following an investigation by the Idaho attorney generals office.

The Preston School District is said to be awaiting the result in the case before deciding the teachers future.

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. 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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. 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Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. 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It is not known whether Mr Crosland is still teaching, although an anonymous employee was placed on administrative leave by the local board of education at a meeting on 21 March.

The issue of animals in the classroom was also raised at the meeting, according to the minutes.



Guwahati : The Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council will get three more Executive Members (EM)s and a new chairman.





According to the reports, Horen Sing Bey, chairman of the council had resigned from the post on May 30 last and sent his resignation letter to the deputy chairman of the council.





Sources said that, Horen Sing Bey will be inducted as a new Executive Member in the council.





Apart from Horen Singh Bey two other BJP MACs Mangal Sing Timung and Lunsing Teron will also be inducted as Executive Members.





Earlier, 11 out of 24 Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MACs were given the charge of EMs as per the Governors notification No. HAD 209/2011/Pt./119 Dtd. 31/07/2017 under Rule 20 (1) of the Assam Autonomous District (constitution of District Council) rule 1951.





A top source said that, Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang had already sent the name of three MACs to the Assam governor for his approval.





On the other hand, former EM and present MAC Longki Timung would likely to take charge of new chairman of the council.



Two months ago, as workers in a slaughterhouse in Eastern Tennessee went about their daily work breaking down carcasses and preparing meat for shipment, a swarm of federal agents surrounded the compound in what would become the largest workplace immigration raid the United States has seen in a decade.

With a helicopter droning overhead, agents from the IRS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Tennessee Highway Patrol blocked the roads leading to the slaughterhouse before arresting 97 undocumented workers, pulling breadwinners from their families and sending shockwaves through the quiet, rural community.

Since President Donald Trump took office, ICE has put a renewed premium on workplace raids, and recently announced that it had already doubled the number of raids between October and May over the year before  a step towards its pronounced aim at quadrupling the rate practised by the previous administration.

Recommended Report alleges increase of Border Patrol child abuse

While the president and immigration officials praise these developments, residents in the communities impacted by these raids are largely left to pick up the pieces on their own afterward. They try to help those who have lost husbands and fathers to make ends meet without an important source of income, while rushing to maintain the social fabric in smaller communities suddenly engulfed in fear and concern as the effects of lost workers ripples through the economy.

One day you have your family. Youre just worried about how work is going to go. Then, all of a sudden, everything is gone and you dont know whats going to happen, Yahel Salazar, 27, told The Independent. Her husband  33-year-old Cristino Ramirez Santana, a Mexican national who came to the US about 16 years ago  was arrested in the Bean Station slaughterhouse raid in Tennessee alongside five in-laws. Ms Salazar is also from Mexico, and is a recipient of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme, which Mr Trump has attempted to dismantle.

Since the raid on 5 April, Ms Salazar has had to cut back on her hours at a packing plant where she works to care for her two children, even though she needs the money now more than ever with her husband detained in a facility in Louisiana.

Ive been missing work. I still have to take the kids to the doctor. My little one, who has been sick, has been two times already [since my husbands arrest], Ms Salazar said of her one-year-old boy, who she says has a virus.

She has one other son, a six-year-old, and previously cared for two girls her husband had with his previous wife, though his ex-wife has taken over their care, and has recently indicated that she may not be able to provide for them in the long term. That raises the prospect that those girls, aged 10 and 12, may end up in state custody, even though Ms Salazar says she would gladly take care of them, even though she is uncertain how she could care for two more kids.

Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Show all 14 1 /14 Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Immigrant children, many of whom are separated form their parents, are housed in Texas' tent city Reuters Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border A two-year-old Honduran asylum seeker cries as her mother is searched and detained near the US-Mexico border Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Undocumented migrants ride on the top of a freight train referred to as the beast, or La Bestia Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border A cage inside a US Customs and Border Protection detention facility in Texas Reuters Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US Border Patrol Academy All new agents must complete a months-long training course at the New Mexico facility before assuming their posts at Border Patrol stations, mostly along the US-Mexico border Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US-Mexico border fence A group of young men walk along the Mexican side of the US-Mexico border fence in a remote area of the Sonoran Desert Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US-Mexico border fence in the US Man looks through US-Mexico border fence into the US in Tijuana, Mexico Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US-Mexico border fence US Border Patrol agent Sal De Leon stands near a section of the US-Mexico border fence while stopping on patrol on in La Joya, Texas Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border US Border Patrol Academy US Border Patrol instructor yells at trainees after their initial arrival to the academy Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Memorial service in Guatemala Families attend a memorial service for two boys who were kidnapped and killed in San Juan Sacatepequez, Guatemala. Crime drives emigration from Guatemala to the United States, as families seek refuge from the danger Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Arrests on the border Undocumented immigrants comfort each other after being caught by Border Patrol agents near the US-Mexico border Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Detention holding facility A boy from Honduras watches a movie at a detention facility run by the US Border Patrol Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Mexican farm workers Mexican migrant workers harvest organic parsley at Grant Family Farms in Wellington, Colorado Getty Undocumented immigration across the US-Mexico border Mexican family in Arizona A Mexican immigrant family sits in the living room of their rented home in Tuscon, Arizona. The family that Arizona's new tough immigrant law had created a climate of fear in the immigrant community. Getty

Between 1 October of last year and 4 May, ICE says that 3,410 worksite investigations, or raids, were opened, which led to 594 criminal and 610 administrative arrests. Thats compared to 1,716 such inspections in the fiscal year of 2017, when 139 criminal arrests were made alongside 172 administrative arrests. The raids have targeted communities across the country, including limo companies in New York City and 7-Eleven stores in California.

ICE contends that the raids are important in order to verify the legality of workers and ensure that undocumented people with criminal records are not in the American workforce, and to ensure that employers are not unfairly gaming the system  even though, as is the case in Tennessee, claims that the employers were violating the law have led to no arrests for those in charge and the plant is still running, according to people interviewed for this story.

ICE is responsible for upholding the laws established by the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986, which requires employers to verify the identity and work eligibility of all individuals they hire, Danielle Bennett, an ICE spokesperson, said when contacted about the raids. These laws help protect jobs for US citizens and others who are lawfully employed, eliminate unfair competitive advantages for companies that hire an illegal workforce, and strengthen public safety and national security.

Immigration advocates say that, in the aftermath of these sorts of raids, the community response is akin to what one might seen following a natural disaster: the community host fundraisers to help the families with food and money, volunteers show up to help people deal with the trauma, people begin to map out how they can afford to not lose their homes as they wait for the courts to work through the log of those detained. For schools, the administrators are faced with convincing students that it is safe to go to class  as many as 550 students did not show up to school the day after the slaughterhouse raid, for instance.

Erica Johnson, the director of the American Friends Service Committee in Iowa, said that the community there came together after 32 people were arrested in a raid in Mt Pleasant on 9 May.

Its sickening that thats something that Iowans have to do. Its something were accustomed to doing in the event of a natural disaster like a tornado in Iowa, or a flood, after hurricanes in some states, and in some instances after mass shootings, Ms Johnson said.

In this case, Iowans are coming together to support young families who have been devastated by the US government.

 US attorney general Jeff Sessions to Oakland mayor: 'how dare you' expose immigration raid

ICE says that the amped-up workplace raids  created by directive from ICE deputy director Thomas Homan  will give jobs to Americans who were elbowed out by undocumented workers, but previous raids show that is not always the case.

The community of Cactus, Texas, for instance, has largely recovered after a 12 December 2006 raid that swept up 300 workers there  10 per cent of the population  as a part of a broader national effort that day that took in 1,300 workers in total.

In the decade after that raid, The Washington Post reports, the meatpacking plant that was targeted has largely jumped back, but it can still be difficult to find American workers. In the aftermath, the plant has resorted to simply hiring a different kind of immigrant  refugees  to fill its ranks. The American workers never showed up.

 Donald Trump reads poem 'The Snake' to warn of danger of accepting immigrants

The slaughterhouse in Bean Station, Tennessee, is the third largest employer in the rural area it sits in, and has cut its intake of cattle since the raid significantly, according to Father Steve Pawelk, who runs the small St John Paul II church in nearby Rutledge. Father Pawelk noted that doesnt just impact the workers at the plant and their families 17 of the families directly impacted by the April raid are in his congregation  but they also impact the farmers and ranchers who have to travel farther to sell their stock.

On the day of the raid, Father Pawelk said he had people coming into his small store-front church from 10am until 10pm, seeking answers and solace to what had just happened.

Since then, the church has managed to raise funds to help the families, and has given about $8,000 to families for things like rent, utilities, and insurance. Those efforts have been bolstered by donations from all over the country and from differing denominations, and have included the creation of an Amazon account to allow strangers to buy things like diapers, or baby food, or paper towels for the families.

Someone asked me recently, whens this going to end? Father Pawelk said. I said: For the families it doesnt end.

 Trump says he may use the military to deport undocumented immigrants

Last month, Attorney General Jeff Sessions focused on the plant operators while discussing the Tennessee raid, instead of the 97 people who had been arrested.

You dont get to get an advantage in this country by having large numbers of illegal workers working for you, Mr Sessions said of the plant operators, though none had been charged following the raid. Im not shedding tears about them. You dont get to benefit from being in this country and looking around the world for the cheapest worker you can find. Thats just not good policy for this country.

Just this past week, Ms Salazars husband was denied bond, meaning that he must stay in Louisiana pending an appeal of that decision.

Ms Salazar says that the detention is taking more than just an economic toll on her family. In the two months since he was detained, their youngest son had his first birthday, and she has no way of knowing for sure that he will be back for the second, or if he will have been deported back to Mexico. She says her children can tell something is wrong, and are grieving in their own way.

He missed the first birthday. The first step. The first words, Ms Salazar said. There are so many things. Hes just one, but I know he feels something. When youre a mother, you can tell when your babies are not OK.Two climbers have fallen to their deaths while climbing the rock face known as "El Capitan" in California's Yosemite National Park.

Jason Wells, 46, and Tim Klien, 42, died trying to scale the 900m-tall granite formation using the Free Blast route on Saturday morning.

National Park Rangers received multiple 911 calls about the fall at around 8.15am but neither climber survived.

No further details have been released about how Mr Wells, from Boulder, Colorado, and Mr Klien, of Palmdale, California, lost their lives.

They were reportedly training for a speed ascent of the rock formation with the simul (simultaneous) climbing method.

The accident follows the death of a hiker who slipped while climbing the granite cliffs of Half Dome in Yosemite last week.

British climber Andrew Foster, 32, was killed at El Capitan last September when he was crushed by falling rocks in front of his wife Lucy.

There are more than 100 accidents in the park every year, most of them involving experienced climbers, according to the National Park Service.

"At least 80 per cent of the fatalities and many injuries, were easily preventable," wrote Yosemite Ranger John Dill in his guide Staying Alive.

"In case after case, ignorance, a casual attitude, and/or some form of distraction proved to be the most dangerous aspects of the sport."

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. 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El Capitan, which translates as "The Captain" or "The Chief", is one of the best-known landmarks in the national park and is considered a world-class challenge for rock climbers.

The Free Blast route involves the first 10 pitches, or stops, of El Capitan's Salathe Wall, one of the original technical climbing routes.Donald Trump could pardon himself over allegations of collusion with Russia if he wanted to, his lawyer Rudy Giuliani has said.

In a round of TV interviews, the former New York mayor also detailed how the president's legal team would likely fight any summons to testify before special counsel Robert Mueller's probe into obstruction of justice.

We will say hey. You got everything you need...what do you need us for? Mr Giuliani said during an interview on ABCs This Week.

His remarks came after the New York Times detailed a memorandum from Mr Trumps legal team arguing against Mr Muellers team compelling Mr Trump to testify - foreshadowing a potential historic clash as Mr Mueller seeks to determine whether the president hindered the probe into Russian election interference and links to the Trump campaign.

A paramount question for the presidents lawyers is whether Mr Trump will sit for an interview - and, if he were to refuse, whether Mr Mueller has the legal power to compel his testimony by issuing a grand jury subpoena.

While Mr Giuliani stopped short of saying the president categorically could not be subpoenaed, he said Mr Trumps attorneys are leaning towards not allowing the president to be interviewed - overriding Mr Trump's desire to set the record straight.

He believes hes innocent, Mr Giuliani said. He believes if he gets the chance to explain it people will understand: no collusion with the Russians, no obstruction of justice.

The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Show all 17 1 /17 The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Paul Manafort Mr Manafort is a Republican strategist and former Trump campaign manager. He resigned from that post over questions about his extensive lobbying overseas, including in Ukraine where he represented pro-Russian interests. Mr Manafort turned himself in at FBI headquarters to special counsel Robert Muellers team on Oct 30, 2017, after he was indicted under seal on charges that include conspiracy against the United States, conspiracy to launder money, unregistered agent of a foreign principal, false and misleading US Foreign Agents Registration Act statements, false statements, and seven counts of failure to file reports of foreign bank and financial accounts. Getty The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Rick Gates Mr Gates joined the Trump team in spring 2016, and served as a top aide until he left to work at the Republican National Committee after the departure of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort. Mr Gates' had previously worked on several presidential campaigns, on international political campaigns in Europe and Africa, and had 15 years of political or financial experience with multinational firms, according to his bio. Mr Gates was indicted alongside Mr Manafort by special counsel Robert Mueller's team on charges that include conspiracy against the United States, conspiracy to launder money, unregistered agent of a foreign principal, false and misleading US Foreign Agents Registration Act statements, false statements, and seven counts of failure to file reports of foreign bank and financial accounts. AP The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation George Papadopoulos George Papadopoulos was a former foreign policy adviser for the Trump campaign, having joined around March 2016. Mr Papadopoulos plead guilty to federal charges for lying to the FBI as a part of a cooperation agreement with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation. Mr Papadopoulos claimed in an interview with the FBI that he had made contacts with Russian sources before joining the Trump campaign, but he actually began working with them after joining the team. Mr Papadopoulos allegedly took a meeting with a professor in London who reportedly told him that Russians had "dirt" on Hillary Clinton. The professor also allegedly introduced Mr Papadopoulos to a Russian who was said to have close ties to officials at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Mr Papadopoulos also allegedly was in contact with a woman whom he incorrectly described in one email to others in the campaign as the "niece" to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Twitter The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Donald Trump Jr The President's eldest son met with a Russian lawyer - Natalia Veselnitskaya - on 9 June 2016 at Trump Tower in New York. He said in an initial statement that the meeting was about Russia halting adoptions of its children by US citizens. Then, he said it was regarding the Magnitsky Act, a US law blacklisting Russian human rights abusers. In a final statement, Mr Trump Jr released a chain of emails that revealed he took the meeting in hopes of getting information Ms Veselnitskaya had about Hillary Clinton's alleged financial ties to Russia. He and the President called it standard "opposition research" in the course of campaigning and that no information came from the meeting. The meeting was set up by an intermediary, Rob Goldstone. Jared Kushner and Paul Manafort were also at the same meeting. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Jared Kushner Mr Kushner is President Donald Trump's son-in-law and a key adviser to the White House. He met with a Russian banker appointed by Russian President Vladimir Putin in December. Mr Kushner has said he did so in his role as an adviser to Mr Trump while the bank says he did so as a private developer. Mr Kushner has also volunteered to testify in the Senate about his role helping to arrange meetings between Trump advisers and Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Rob Goldstone Former tabloid journalist and now music publicist Rob Goldstone is a contact of the Trump family through the previously Trump-owned 2013 Miss Universe pageant, which took place in Moscow. In June 2016, he wrote to Donald Trump Jr offering a meeting with a Russian lawyer, Natalya Veselnitskaya, who had information about Hillary Clinton. Mr Goldstone was the intermediary for Russian pop star Emin Agalaraov and his father, real estate magnate Aras, who played a role in putting on the 2013 pageant. In an email chain released by Mr Trump Jr, Mr Goldstone seemed to indicate Russian government's support of Donald Trump's campaign. AP images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Aras and Emin Agalarov Aras Agalarov (R) is a wealthy Moscow-based real estate magnate and son Emin (L) is a pop star. Both played a role in putting on the previously Trump-owned 2013 Miss Universe pageant in Moscow. They allegedly had information about Hillary Clinton and offered that information to the Trump campaign through a lawyer with whom they had worked with, Natalia Veselnitskaya, and music publicist Rob Goldstone. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Natalia Veselnitskaya Natalia Veselnitskaya is a Russian lawyer with ties to the Kremlin. She has worked on real estate issues and reportedly counted the FSB as a client in the past. She has ties to a Trump family connection, real estate magnate Aras Agalarov, who had helped set up the Trump-owned 2013 Miss Universe pageant which took place in Moscow. Ms Veselnitskaya met with Donald Trump Jr, Jared Kushner, and Paul Manafort in Trump Tower on 9 June 2016 but denies the allegation that she went there promising information on Hillary Clinton's alleged financial ties to Russia. She contends that the meeting was about the US adoptions of Russian children being stopped by Moscow as a reaction to the Magnitsky Act, a US law blacklisting Russian human rights abusers. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Mike Flynn Mr Flynn was named as Trump's national security adviser but was forced to resign from his post for inappropriate communication with Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. He had misrepresented a conversation he had with Mr Kislyak to Vice President Mike Pence, telling him wrongly that he had not discussed sanctions with the Russian. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Sergey Kislyak Mr Kislyak, the former longtime Russian ambassador to the US, is at the centre of the web said to connect President Donald Trump's campaign with Russia. Reuters The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Roger Stone Mr Stone is a former Trump adviser who worked on the political campaigns of Richard Nixon, George HW Bush, and Ronald Reagan. Mr Stone claimed repeatedly in the final months of the campaign that he had backchannel communications with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and that he knew the group was going to dump damaging documents to the campaign of Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton - which did happen. Mr Stone also had contacts with the hacker Guccier 2.0 on Twitter, who claimed to have hacked the DNC and is linked to Russian intelligence services. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Jeff Sessions The US attorney general was forced to recuse himself from the Trump-Russia investigation after it was learned that he had lied about meeting with Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Carter Page Mr Page is a former advisor to the Trump campaign and has a background working as an investment banker at Merrill Lynch. Mr Page met with Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak during the 2016 Republican National Convention in Cleveland. Mr Page had invested in oil companies connected to Russia and had admitted that US Russia sanctions had hurt his bottom line. Reuters The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Jeffrey "JD" Gorden Mr Gordon met with Russian Ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak during the 2016 Republian National Convention to discuss how the US and Russia could work together to combat Islamist extremism should then-Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump win the election. The meeting came days before a massive leak of DNC emails that has been connected to Russia. Creative Commons The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation James Comey Mr Comey was fired from his post as head of the FBI by President Donald Trump. The timing of Mr Comey's firing raised questions around whether or not the FBI's investigation into the Trump campaign may have played a role in the decision. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Preet Bharara Mr Bahara refused, alongside 46 other US district attorney's across the country, to resign once President Donald Trump took office after previous assurances from Mr Trump that he would keep his job. Mr Bahara had been heading up several investigations including one into one of President Donald Trump's favorite cable television channels Fox News. Several investigations would lead back to that district, too, including those into Mr Trump's campaign ties to Russia, and Mr Trump's assertion that Trump Tower was wiretapped on orders from his predecessor. Getty Images The biggest names involved in the Trump-Russia investigation Sally Yates Ms Yates, a former Deputy Attorney General, was running the Justice Department while President Donald Trump's pick for attorney general awaited confirmation. Ms Yates was later fired by Mr Trump from her temporary post over her refusal to implement Mr Trump's first travel ban. She had also warned the White House about potential ties former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn to Russia after discovering those ties during the FBI's investigation into the Trump campaign's connections to Russia. Getty Images

Mr Giuliani rejected the memorandums explosive contention that a president cannot be investigated for obstruction of justice and can halt a legal inquiry at any time, saying I would not go that far. In a separate appearance on Meet the Press, the presidents counsel acknowledged the political peril if Mr Trump were to try and dissolve Mr Mueller's inquiry.

It could lead to impeachment - if he terminated an investigation of himself, it could lead to all sorts of [outcomes], Mr Giuliani said.

Similarly, while Mr Giuliani affirmed that Mr Trump probably does have the power to pardon himself - wielding a tool he has repeatedly used on his political allies - he said it would not happen.

The president of the United States pardoning himself would just be unthinkable, Mr Giuliani said, and it would lead to probably an immediate impeachment.

Mr Giuliani continued to resist the argument that Mr Trump had sought to undercut the Russia probe by urging former FBI director James Comey to ease off former Trump adviser Michael Flynn - who has since pleaded guilty to lying about his contacts with Russia - and subsequently firing Mr Comey. Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein has since assumed responsibility for overseeing Mr Muellers probe.

 Rudy Giuliani says Donald Trump fired James Comey because he wouldn't assure him FBI was not targeting him in Russia probe

Firing an employee when you know that another employees going to come in and take that job and further the investigation cannot possibly obstruct the investigation, Mr Giuliani said.

As Mr Muellers inquiry into the presidents actions has reached a crescendo, Mr Giuliani has made a series of statements about the limits of Mr Muellers power to investigate a sitting president.

Last month, Mr Giuliani said he had been made to understand that Mr Muellers team would adhere to longstanding legal precedent saying a president cannot be indicted. The Justice Department has not publicly confirmed that Mr Mueller has reached that conclusion.North Korea has reportedly shuffled its top military leadership ahead of an expected meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un.

Three of the reclusive countrys highest-ranking officials were replaced, according to a report in Yonhap news agency that cited an intelligence source who said one of the incoming generals is seen as a moderate who could exercise flexibility in thinking.

It can be difficult to decode leadership turnover within the opaque North Korean regime, where shifting dynamics can lead to purges of the type Mr Kim carried out upon assuming power.

But power and the military are tightly intertwined in North Korea, and the countrys martial ambitions are at the centre of a high-stakes diplomatic exchange unfolding across the globe.

After testing a nuclear weapon and a barrage of increasingly sophisticated ballistic missiles - including projectiles capable of hitting the United States - Mr Kim expressed a willingness to denuclearise in inviting Mr Trump to meet.

The regime has since sent mixed signals on its willingness to abandon its nuclear arsenal. While US officials have been in lockstep with their allies on demanding the absolute and verifiable dissolution of North Koreas nuclear programme, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo noted last week that the regime has long seen a nuclear arsenal as a means of self-preservation

Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb Show all 6 1 /6 Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb Photos released by North Korea show Kim Jong-un talking to subordinates next to a device thought to be the new thermonuclear weapon. There is no way of independently verifying the pictures STR/AFP/Getty Images Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb North Korea claims it has successfully tested an advanced hydrogen bomb which could be loaded onto an intercontinental ballistic missile AFP/Getty Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb A diagram on the wall behind Mr Kim shows a bomb mounted inside a cone STR/AFP/Getty Images Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un (C) attending a photo session with participants of the fourth conference of active secretaries of primary organisations of the youth league of the Korean People's Army (KPA) in Pyongyang STR/AFP/Getty Images Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb A new stamp issued in commemoration of the successful second test launch of the "Hwasong-14" intercontinental ballistic missile KCNA via Reuters Kim Jong-un inspects weapon North Korea says is powerful hydrogen bomb A new stamp issued in commemoration of the successful second test launch of the "Hwasong-14" intercontinental ballistic missile KCNA via Reuters

Theres a long history where North Korea has viewed its nuclear programme as providing the security it needed for the regime, Mr Pompeo said this week after emerging from a meeting with a top-ranking North Korean official who subsequently met with Mr Trump in the Oval Office.

A key goal in talks, Mr Pompeo said, would be convincing the regime that the real threat to their security is the continued holding onto that nuclear weapons programme and not the converse.

In a development that would dramatically alter the status quo on the Korean Peninsula, the regime has also embraced striking a peace deal with South Korea to formally end the Korean War.

 Top North Korean official arrives at the White House to deliver letter from Kim Jong Un

After the conflict technically stalled into a truce decades ago, the two Koreas have remained in a hostile stalemate, watching each other across a heavily fortified border.

American negotiators have been meeting with their counterparts within the demilitarised zone, and Mr Kim earlier this year crossed the border to meet with South Korean president Moon Jae-in - believed to be the first time a North Korean leader visited the south.Donald Trumps ambassador to Germany has suggested he will intervene in European politics to empower conservatives, in comments that have been criticised as going far beyond the traditional remit of a diplomat.

There are a lot of conservatives throughout Europe who have contacted me to say they are feeling there is a resurgence going on, ambassador Richard Grenell told the far-right publication Breitbart.

As Slovenia became the latest European democracy to elevate a politician espousing a populist form of conservatism, Mr Grenell said he wanted to empower other conservatives throughout Europe.

I think there is a groundswell of conservative policies that are taking hold because of the failed policies of the left, Mr Grenell said.

Chris Murphy, a Connecticut senator who sits on the Foreign Relations Committee, tweeted that he found Mr Grenells Breitbart interview awful to read.

When I raised concerns to Grenell about politicising this post, he personally assured me that once he became Ambassador he would stay out of politics, he said.

Ambassadors arent supposed to empower any political party overseas.

An anti-establishment message intertwined with hostility to immigration helped propel Mr Trump to victory  themes that have reverberated through a string of European elections. Mr Grenell cited that precedent as helping to inform his mandate.

German election 2017 Show all 14 1 /14 German election 2017 German election 2017 German Chancellor Angela Merkel (R) poses for a selfie with a boy before addressing an election campaign rally of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Kappeln Odd Andersen/AFP German election 2017 German Social Democrat (SPD) and chancellor candidate Martin Schulz speaks during an election campaign stop on September 20, 2017 in Gelsenkirchen. Schulz trails Chancellor and Christian Democrat (CDU) Angela Merkel by double digits Sascha Schuermann/Getty Images German election 2017 Sahra Wagenknecht, top candidate of the left-wing Die Linke party for upcoming general elections, gives a speech during a session at the Bundestag (lower house of parliament) in Berlin on September 5 John MacDougall/AFP German election 2017 Top candidate for the Greens for the 2017 German federal elections, Cem Ozdemir, speaks during an election campaign rally of the Alliance '90/Greens in Stuttgart, southern Germany on September 20, 2017, during the final days before Germans head to the polls Thomas Kienzle/AFP German election 2017 Leader of the Free Democrats (FDP) and main candidate in the upcoming parliamentary elections, Christian Lindner gives a speech during the party congress in Berlin on September 17 Odd Andersen/AFP German election 2017 Alice Weidel and Alexander Gauland, co-lead candidates of the right-wing, populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) political party, speaking to the media on Islam, immigration and crime next to an AfD poster that reads: 'Crime Through Immigration, The Refugee Wave Leaves Behind Clues!' on September 18, in Berlin Tobias Schwarz/AFP German election 2017 People listen to German Chancellor and Christian Democrat (CDU) Angela Merkel speak at an election campaign stop on September 19, 2017 in Schwerin Getty German election 2017 Refugees from Syria prior to the arrival of German Chancellor and Christian Democrat (CDU) Angela Merkel at an election campaign stop on September 19, 2017 in Schwerin Sean Gallup/Getty Images German election 2017 The audience cheers whilst listening to German Social Democrat (SPD) and chancellor candidate Martin Schulz speaking during an election campaign stop on September 14 in Munich Joerg Koch/Getty Images German election 2017 German Chancellor Angela Merkel holds up a tomato as she addresses an election campaign rally of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Lingen on September 13 AFP/Getty Images German election 2017 Alexander Gauland, top candidate of Germany's anti-Islam, anti-immigration AfD (Alternative fuer Deutschland) party for upcoming general elections, walks past supporters as he attends an election campaign event in Nuremberg Daniel Karmann/AFP German election 2017 British politician and former UKIP leader Nigel Farage speaks at an event held by the German right-wing, populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) political party as AfD leading member Beatrix von Storch looks on on September 8, 2017 in Berlin Sean Gallup/Getty Images German election 2017 Martin Schulz (C), chancellor candidate of the German Social Democrats (SPD), looks on in a fest tent at the Gillamoos amusement fair on September 4, 2017 in Abensberg, Germany. Politicians, among them elections candidates, from Germany's major political parties are attending the fair today in what is an an annual tradition Johannes Simon/Getty Images German election 2017 An Alternative for Germany (AfD) campaign poster is vandalised in Berlin. Germans go to the polls on September 24th, with the AfD widely expected to garner enough votes to enter the federal parliament. Campaign poster reads: 'New Germans? we'll make them ourselves.' AFP

I look across the landscape and weve got a lot of work to do, but I think the election of Donald Trump has empowered individuals and people to say that they cant just allow the political class to determine before an election takes place, whos going to win and who should run, Mr Grenell said.

He offered praise for Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz, calling him a rock star. The young leader of the conservative Austrian Peoples Party has formed a coalition with the far-right Freedom Party.

 Austrian election results: Who is Sebastian Kurz?

The news organisation that ran the exclusive interview with Mr Grenell has itself helped to nourish the same political forces the ambassador said he would cultivate.

Breitbart became a force in American politics through its rejection of mainstream Republicans and its focus on illegal immigration. Its former chairman Steve Bannon helped instil those themes in the Trump presidential campaign, for which he was key strategic architect, and then in the White House.Donald Trumps lawyers composed a secret 20-page letter to special counsel Robert Mueller to assert he cannot be forced to testify.

It also argued he could not have committed obstruction because he has absolute authority over all federal investigations.

The existence of the letter, which was first reported by The New York Times on Saturday, was a bold assertion of presidential power and another front on which Mr Trumps lawyers have argued that the president cant be subpoenaed in the special counsels ongoing investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

The letter is dated 29 January and addressed to Mr Mueller from John Dowd, one of Mr Trumps lawyers at the time who has since resigned from the legal team.

 Donald Trump suggests he would override his legal team submit to interview with Robert Mueller

In the letter, Mr Trumps lawyers argue a charge of illegal obstruction is moot because the Constitution empowers the president to if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.

Mr Trump weighed in on Saturday on Twitter, asking Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media?

He added: When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country.

Mr Mueller has requested an interview with the president to determine whether he had criminal intent to obstruct the investigation into his associates possible links to Russias election interference.

Mr Trump had previously signalled he would be willing to sit for an interview, but his legal team, including head lawyer Rudy Giuliani, have privately and publicly expressed concern that the president could risk charges of perjury.

If Mr Trump does not consent to an interview, Mr Mueller will have to decide whether to forge ahead with a historic grand jury subpoena.

His team raised the possibility in March of subpoenaing the president but it is not clear if it is still under active consideration.

Mr Giuliani has told The Associated Press that the presidents legal team believes the special counsel does not have the authority to do so.

A court battle is likely if Mr Trumps team argues that the president cant be forced to answer questions or be charged with obstruction of justice.

Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Show all 29 1 /29 Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inauguration - 20 January 2017 US President Donald Trump acknowledges the audience after taking the oath of office as his wife Melania (L) and daughter Tiffany watch during inauguration ceremonies swearing in Trump as the 45th president of the United States on the West Front of the US capital in Washington on 20 January, 2017. Photographer Jim Bourg: "This photo was shot with one of two remote cameras. The cameras were monitored and triggered remotely and the pictures were transmitted to clients worldwide within minutes of being taken." Reuters/Jim Bourg Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Obama farewell address - 10 January 2017 US President Barack Obama wipes away tears as he delivers his farewell address in Chicago on 10 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "In his final days in office, Obama made a visit home to Chicago. As he spoke from the stage to his wife and daughter in the audience, he became emotional when he talked about what they had sacrificed during his time in office. I turned from photographing the Obama women embracing to find him onstage wiping away tears." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inauguration - 20 January 2017 A combination of photos shows the crowds attending the inauguration ceremonies to swear in U.S. President Donald Trump at 12:01pm (left) on January 20, 2017 and President Barack Obama sometime between 12:07pm and 12:26pm on January 20, 2009. Reuters/ Lucas Jackson/Stelios Varias Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Liberty Ball - 20 January 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump attend the Liberty Ball in honour of his inauguration in Washington on 20 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "What I see when I look at this picture is the end of a very long day, not to mention weeks and months of preparation by many photographers, editors and network experts and the beginning of everything since." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception - 22 January 2017 US President Donald Trump greets Director of the FBI James Comey as Director of the Secret Service Joseph Clancy (L), watches during the Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception in the Blue Room of the White House on 22 January, 2017. Photographer Joshua Roberts: "I have covered the White House for 16 years and normally either the President or the pool is in position when an event starts. In this case the President was not where anyone expected him to be. In fact, he was almost blocking the door when the pool came in. We had to scramble to find a position without bumping him or the furniture as he greeted and thanked members of law enforcement for their security efforts during the inauguration. Luckily, he greeted FBI Director James Comey a few seconds after the pool had made its way into the room." Reuters/Joshua Roberts Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Private phone calls to world leaders - 28 January 2017 US President Donald Trump, is joined by his staff, as he speaks by phone with Russia's President Vladimir Putin in the Oval Office on 28 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Very early in the Trump administration, weekends were as busy as weekdays. On Trump's second Saturday the official schedule said he would be making private phone calls to a number of world leaders including Russia's Vladimir Putin. I arrived early and, before sitting down at my desk walked up to Press Secretary Sean Spicer's office. He, too, was just taking his coat off. I gingerly made the suggestion that previous administrations had sometimes allowed photos of such phone calls through the Oval Office windows on the colonnade. To my mild shock, he didn't even think about it twice. "We'll do it!" he said. In truth, I really only expected the Putin call, but we were outside the windows multiple times throughout the day as the calls went on." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Senior advisor Kellyanne Conway - 27 February 2017 Senior advisor Kellyanne Conway (L) attends as US President Donald Trump welcomes the leaders of dozens of historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) in the Oval Office on 27 February, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "We're often asked how much access we have to the Trump administration, and the answer is we have an awful lot. President Trump himself is very comfortable in the spotlight, and his aides are similarly unfazed by cameras. In this instance, senior advisor Kellyanne Conway was so comfortable in our presence she seemed not to consider the optics of kneeling on a Oval Office sofa to take pictures with her phone." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Angela Merkel heads to Washington - 17 March 2017 Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel and US President Donald Trump hold a joint news conference in the East Room of the White House on 17 March, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Chancellor Merkel made one of the earliest important visits of any US allies to meet Trump in his first months in office. When world leaders give joint news conferences they don't always tend to give each other their full attention - but Merkel watched Trump intently at several key moments, and here seemed particularly rapt." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump welcomes truckers to the White House - 23 March 2017 President Trump reacts as he sits on a truck while he welcomes truckers and CEOs to attend a meeting regarding healthcare at the White House on 23 March, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "The White House organised a listening session with truckers and CEO's of major American companies, regarding healthcare reform. An 18-wheeler tow truck was parked on the South Lawn of the White House and as Trump welcomed the truckers someone invited the him to come and sit in the driver's seat. Trump jumped into the cab and started yelling and pretending to drive - creating one of the most memorable pictures of the year. A lesson learned, always be prepared for the unexpected." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Air Force One - 6 April 2017 US President Donald Trump talks to journalists members of the travel pool on board the Air Force One during his trip to Palm Beach, Florida on 6 April, 2017. Carlos Barria: "During the many trips to President Trump's residence in Florida it is usual to see the president coming to the back of the plane to chat with journalists. During one of the trips to the so called 'Winter White House', Trump had a long talk with reporters while the Air Force One entertainment system was playing one of the latest Star Wars movies. As I was listening to Trump talk I was also looking at the movie waiting for a part of the movie to frame the mood of the day. Of the many scenes, I choose the one with Darth Vader." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures 100 Days - 27 April 2017 US President Donald Trump speaks during an interview with Reuters in the Oval Office of the White House on 27 April, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "A day before President Trump's hundred days in office I was part of the team that interviewed the commander-in-chief in the Oval Office. I was only allowed to photograph Trump during the last five minutes of the interview. The time was very tight so I had to move fast as I had pictures in mind that I wanted to shoot. I walked into the Oval Office and saw that the President had printed maps of the country showing areas in red where he won. I raised my hands holding my camera as high as possible to get the best view of the scene using a 16mm wide angle lens." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures 100 Days - 27 April 2017 US President Donald Trump reacts as he arrives at Harrisburg international airport, before attending a rally marking his first 100 days in office in Pennsylvania on 29 April, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "President Trump travelled to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to celebrate his hundred days in office with a victory rally. He was in friendly territory as he won with a big difference over his opponent Hillary Clinton in Pennsylvania, during the November elections. As usual when the commander-in-chief arrives local residents gather to greet him. This time a small group of military personnel attended the arrival. Surrounded by secret service agents Trump walked from the Air Force One and raised his hand in a sign of victory as the crowd cheered him on." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House staffers - 2 May 2017 White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer (L) and White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus watch as US President Donald Trump presents the U.S. Air Force Academy football team with the Commander-in-Chief trophy in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington on 2 May, 2017. Photographer Joshua Roberts: "Covering the White House does not just mean covering the President. White House staffers are an important part of the story and their relationship with the President and each other is an indicator of how things are going in the West Wing. The tendency is to focus exclusively on the President once an event starts but I always try to look around to see how people are reacting as things unfold." Reuters/Joshua Roberts Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Secret Service - 4 May 2017 Secret Service agents use a presidential limousine as cover from spraying water as US President Donald Trump lands via Marine One helicopter in New York on 4 May, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "The best part of any trip to New York City with the sitting US President is the helicopter ride into Manhattan. The ride out at night can be stunning. Here, Secret Service agents protect themselves from the spray from the East River as Trump lands on the helipad." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures NATO Summit - 25 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump wait the arrival of French President Emmanuel Macron (unseen) before a lunch ahead of a NATO Summit in Brussels on 25 May, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "One of the best parts of travelling overseas for White House coverage is the chance to see the U.S. president in different environments and (literally) a different light. Here, Trump and his wife came out of the shadows to greet France's President Macron." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump meets Putin at G20 summit - 7 July 2017 US President Donald Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany on 7 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "On July 7, I witnessed one of the most important meetings of President Trump's first year in office. Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin during a bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Germany. The world's eyes were on these two leaders after speculation about Russian interference during the 2016 US elections. We entered the room for less than two minutes, where I took dozens of pictures. But there was this very interesting moment when Trump extended his hand to Putin for a handshake. Putin paused for a second and looked at Trump's hand. That was the picture that I was looking for, a little moment that seemed to say a lot." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures First lady - 8 July 2017 First lady Melania Trump chats with US President Donald Trump during their return from Germany at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on 8 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "After President Trump's trip to Germany he arrived back at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. First Lady Melania Trump said goodbye to Trump as she was heading off in a different direction that day. While chatting a breeze blew Melania's hair up in the air." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Made in America product showcase - 17 July 2017 Vice President Mike Pence laughs as President Donald Trump holds a baseball bat as they attend a Made in America product showcase event at the White House on 17 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "This summer the White House organized an event to showcase 'Made in America' products. All kinds of exhibitors brought their products as the President and Vice President toured the event. One of the companies was Marucci Sport, a manufacturer of baseball bats based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As Trump approached a table full of baseball bats, photographers at the event, including me, rushed to get a good angle hoping that he would pick up a bat. As we predicted, he did. He took one and joked around as though he was hitting something hard. The only thing closer to him right there, was the media." Reuters Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House staffers - 25 July 2017 Former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski says hello to reporters as he and White House advisors including Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci accompany President Trump for an event celebrating veterans at AMVETS Post 44 in Ohio, July 25, 2017. Jonathan Ernst: "The most visible person in any White House is naturally the President, followed by the press secretary. But there are also the staff who support them. For those of us covering the Trump administration, there seem to be more compelling figures in the West Wing than ever before. It's crucial to know who's who and why they're important. When I raised my camera and back-pedalled ahead of the group to take this image Lewandowski gave me a hello. I liked the photo, but had no idea it would go a little bit viral, especially since Scaramucci, who was the biggest mover and shaker that week, was hidden back in the pack. But I guess the image catches a glimpse of what it's like to be a West Wing staffer on the road." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Campaign rally - 3 August 2017 US President Donald Trump arrives at a rally in West Virginia on 3 August, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "President Trump travelled to Huntington for one of his usual campaign rallies. While members of his family spoke to the crowd he was waiting under a black curtain to be introduced. Suddenly he walked onto the stage, one of the first frames that I took was of his hand. I set my exposure for the light on the stage hoping to create this dark background and it worked." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Staring into the solar eclipse - 21 August 2017 Without his protective glasses on, US President Donald Trump looks up towards the solar eclipse while viewing with his wife Melania and son Barron at the White House on 21 August, 2017. Photographer Kevin Lamarque: "On a day when everyone, and I mean everyone, was told not to look at the eclipse without protective glasses, Trump, President of the United States, couldn't help himself." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Hurricane Harvey - 2 September 2017 US President Donald Trump poses for a photo as he and first lady Melania Trump help volunteers hand out meals during a visit with flood survivors of Hurricane Harvey at a relief centre in Houston, Texas on 2 September, 2017. Photohrapher Kevin Lamarque: "Trump, eager to deliver the image of a hands-on response to Hurricane Harvey, made this visit to a relief centre and obliged this woman with a selfie as Melania continued to work." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House - 15 September 2017 Donald Trump welcomes 11-year-old Frank Giaccio as he cuts the Rose Garden grass at the White House on 15 September. Frank, who wrote a letter to Trump offering to mow the lawn, was invited to work for a day at the White House along the National Park Service staff. Frank was so focused on his task that he did not notice the President arrive to surprise him. He took his father jumping in to grab his attention and point Trump out. Photographer Carlos Barria said: The image of Trump shouting at a kid who is mowing his lawn might have many interpretations in today's politically polarized United States. But for me it was just a kid who loved what he was doing, to the point he almost appeared to ignore the President." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Take a knee - 27 September 2017 A man kneels with a folded U.S. flag as the motorcade of U.S. President Donald Trump passes him after an event at the state fairgrounds in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S., September 27, 2017. In September, soon after Trump had made comments condemning NFL players who kneel during the national anthem, he made a day trip to a rally in Indianapolis. Jonathan Ernst managed to capture a man on one knee with a tri-folded flag and was able to use a portion of the sign on the building he was kneeling in front of to track the man down and tell his story in full. US Army veteran Marvin Boatright wanted to send a message against social injustice. Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Hurricane Maria - 3 October 2017 President Donald Trump throws rolls of paper towels into a crowd of local residents affected by Hurricane Maria as he visits Calgary Chapel in San Juan, Puerto Rico on 3 October, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "During an afternoon visit to Puerto Rico for President Trump to survey damage from Hurricane Maria and greet some of its victims, Trump made a stop at a church where food and supplies were being distributed. Among the items were paper towels and Trump, apparently caught up in the moment, decided to distribute some of the rolls." Reuters Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Jared Kushner - 1 November 2017 White House Senior adviser Jared Kushner sits behind President Trump during a cabinet meeting in Washington on 1 November, 2017. Photographer Kevin Lamarque: "The role of Jared Kushner has gone through a series of changes. He began front and centre as a high profile adviser, but as time has passed and issues surrounding him have surfaced, he has become more of a background figure." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump in China - 9 November 2017 Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping shake hands after making joint statements at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on 9 November, 2017. Photographer Damir Sagolj: "It's one of those "how to make a better or at least different shot when two presidents shake hands several times a day, several days in row". If I'm not mistaken in calculation, presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump shook their hands at least six times in events I covered during Trump's recent visit to China. I would imagine there were some more handshakes I haven't seen but other photographers did. And they all look similar - two big men, smiling and heartily greeting each other until everyone gets their shot. But then there is always something that can make it special - in this case the background made of US and Chinese flags. The first time it didn't work for me. The second time I positioned myself lower and centrally, and used the longest lens I have to capture only hands reaching for a handshake." Reuters/Damir Sagolj Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Air Force One - 10 November 2017 US President Donald Trump boards Air Force One to depart for Vietnam from Beijing Airport in Beijing, China, November 10, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "There is a Reuters photographer in the tight pool covering the US president for every appearance he makes 365 days a year. This was just one of 32 images of mine that were transmitted on the Reuters wire of President Trump visiting China and Vietnam that day. You never know when a sudden interaction, a gust of wind or a unique facial expression will lead to a striking image that grabs peoples' attention." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures ASEAN handshake - 13 November 2017 Donald Trump registers his surprise as he realises 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 summit in Manila on 13 November, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Having covered a few ASEAN summits, I knew to expect the ASEAN handshake. Not everyone in the room knew to expect the ASEAN handshake. A lot was written about this unscripted moment, and what deeper meaning it might have. The simple truth is that sometimes in life there are unscripted moments." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst

President Bill Clinton was charged with obstruction in 1998 by the House of Representatives as part of his impeachment trial. And one of the articles of impeachment prepared against Richard Nixon in 1974 was for obstruction.

Topics of Mr Muellers obstruction investigation include the firings of both Mr Comey and former national security adviser Michael Flynn, as well Mr Trumps reaction to attorney general Jeff Sessions recusal from the Russia investigation.

In addition to the legal battles, Mr Trumps team and allies have waged a public relations campaign against Mr Mueller to discredit the investigation and soften the impact of the special counsels potential findings.

Mr Giuliani said last week that the special counsel probe may be an entirely illegitimate investigation and need to be curtailed because, in his estimation, it was based on inappropriately obtained information from an informant and former FBI director James Comeys memos.

In reality, the FBI began a counterintelligence investigation in July 2016 to determine if Mr Trump campaign associates were coordinating with Russia to tip the election. The investigation was opened after the hacking of Democratic emails that intelligence officials later formally attributed to Russia.

Mr Giuliani has said a decision will not be made about a possible presidential interview with the special counsel until after Mr Trumps summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on 12 June in Singapore.

Associated PressPolice shot and wounded a man who "rampaged" through Berlin Cathedral wielding a knife, authorities in the German capital said.

A 53-year-old Austrian suspect was taken to hospital with serious injuries to his legs, police said, while a second officer who was trying to restrain the man was also suffered minor injuries in the shooting.

There was no immediate indication the man's reported actions were linked to terrorism, Berlin police spokesman Winfrid Wenzel said. The dpa news agency quoted police as saying the man appeared to be confused.

Wenzel said the incident began when the man entered the Berliner Dom and waved a knife in the area of the altar. Cathedral employees called police and safely escorted about 100 visitors out of the holy site.

Two officers responded to the call and asked the suspect repeatedly to put down the knife, to no avail, police said. The officers used a chemical spray to disarm him, but it did not seem to have an effect.

In the Berliner Dom in the city centre our colleagues opened fire on a rampaging man shortly after 1600, Berlin police said on twitter.

He was injured in the legs. Please avoid rumours.

People sit in front of the Berliner Dom after a German policeman shot a man at the Berlin Cathedral (REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch)

One of the officers then opened fire, wounding the man. The second officer also was inadvertently wounded by the shot fired by his colleague, Berlin police said.

Both the suspect and the police officer were taken to a hospital. Police said the suspect underwent surgery, while the officer was treated for minor injuries and released.

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

Initial reports had said the officer was seriously wounded.

The area around the cathedral is typically crowded with tourists and visitors, particularly on Sunday. A Sunday evening prayer service at the church was canceled.

Additional reporting by APThe Danish parliament is to consider whether to become the first country to ban boys being circumcised after a petition forced lawmakers to debate the issue.

A citizens petition that called for the introduction of a minimum age of 18 for circumcision to protect childrens fundamental rights reached 50,000 signatories on Friday, taking it beyond the threshold at which it must be discussed in Parliament.

The debate should take place in the autumn, after the Danish parliament reconvenes, but it is highly unlikely that the bill will pass into law since the government appears to be opposed to such a course.

Wed be all alone and the first country in the world to go in that direction. Thats our objective analysis, foreign minister Anders Samuelsen told Altinget.

It makes us vulnerable and it means that the allies who normally help us in a precarious situation, will, in this situation, not be by our side.

The defence minister, Claus Hjort Frederiksen, also appeared unenthusiastic.

I think the political risk is enormous, he told reporters, going on to cite fears that the issue could provoke outside interference: "One may risk that it suddenly begins to explode on social media."

Other parliamentarians, however, were in favour of a ban.

It will put childrens rights ahead of their parents religious rights, said Naser Khader, the spokesman on human rights and legal affairs for the Conservative Party, a junior partner in the governing coalition.

"There is too much emphasis on the parents' religious and cultural rights, Khader said.

For me, it is the main children's rights [which are paramount]. We have been a pioneer country in many other areas, for example, we have been first movers of homosexuals' rights and we have been proud. Not [with] children's rights, he added.

Proponents of boyhood circumcision say that the removal of the foreskin can reduce the risk of fatal diseases like cancer, but the claims are contested.

However, its prevalence is largely due to religious traditions within Islam and Judaism that revolve around the ideal of cleanliness.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says the health benefits of male circumcision outweigh the risks but not by enough to recommend universal male circumcision.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says doctors should educate infant boys' parents about the health benefits of circumcision, which it says reduces the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.

Lena Nyhus of the group Intact Denmark told The Associated Press on Saturday that her children's welfare organisation believes "we need to respect a person's right to decide for themselves" on a possible circumcision when they become an adult.

Around 30 per cent of men across the world have been circumcised, according to a 2007 World Health Organization report.

A recent poll commissioned by Danish TV2 broadcaster found that 83 per cent of respondents supported such an age limit on circumcising boys.

However, the proposal is unlikely to pass since none of Denmark's main political parties support it.

Earlier this year, Icelandic lawmakers initially backed a plan to ban circumcisions for minors and to give those who performed the procedure possible jail sentences. But after an outpouring of criticism, including from European Jewish leaders, the proposal was dropped.

Associated Press contributed to this reportThe European Commission is considering making Eritrea a partner for managing migration amid calls for its leaders to be tried for crimes against humanity.

The EUs executive body listed the East African nation among 16 possible countries in line for unspecified packages to increase co-operation as the refugee crisis continues.

Eritreans make up a significant portion of the asylum seekers crossing the Mediterranean Sea, risking their lives to escape a litany of human rights abuses documented in the authoritarian state.

2016 is on course to be the deadliest year in history for refugees crossing the Mediterranean Sea (Italian Navy)

A United Nations Commission of Inquiry found that crimes against humanity had been committed in a widespread and systematic manner in Eritrean detention facilities, military training camps and other locations over the past 25 years.

Its report listed enslavement, imprisonment, enforced disappearances, torture, persecution, rape, murder and other abuses as part of what investigators said was a campaign to control Eritrean civilians dating back to the countrys foundation in 1991.

Eritrea is an authoritarian State, said Mike Smith, chair of the UN Commission. There is no independent judiciary, no national assembly and there are no other democratic institutions in Eritrea.

This has created a governance and rule of law vacuum, resulting in a climate of impunity for crimes against humanity to be perpetrated over a quarter of a century. These crimes are still occurring today.

Eritrean asylum seekers arrive in southern Italy (AFP/Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

The UN Commission, which received thousands of testimonies and written submissions, called for perpetrators to be sent to the International Criminal Court and claimed there was no prospect of them being held to account under the current administration.

Eritreans also continue to be subjected to indefinite national service, arbitrary detention, reprisals for the alleged conduct of family members, discrimination on religious or ethnic grounds, sexual and gender-based violence and killings, the report said.

It alleged that officials at the highest levels of government, in the ruling party, National Security Office and commanding military officers bear responsibility for crimes against humanity and other gross human rights violations.

But a European Commission document on its New Migration Partnership Framework said it was testing a new approach to Eritrea and other selected countries to increase co-operation on managing migration.

Sudan, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Somalia and Tunisia were among the other candidates, which include several listed as countries of concern in a human rights report by the British Government.

An EU report said research had shown a direct link between migration policies in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and that flows were being driven by both conflict and economic factors.

Refugee crisis - in pictures Show all 27 1 /27 Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugee crisis - in pictures A child looks through the fence at the Moria detention camp for migrants and refugees at the island of Lesbos on May 24, 2016. AFP/Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Ahmad Zarour, 32, from Syria, reacts after his rescue by MOAS (Migrant Offshore Aid Station) while attempting to reach the Greek island of Agathonisi, Dodecanese, southeastern Agean Sea Refugee crisis - in pictures Syrian migrants holding life vests gather onto a pebble beach in the Yesil liman district of Canakkale, northwestern Turkey, after being stopped by Turkish police in their attempt to reach the Greek island of Lesbos on 29 January 2016. Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees flash the 'V for victory' sign during a demonstration as they block the Greek-Macedonian border Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants have been braving sub zero temperatures as they cross the border from Macedonia into Serbia. Refugee crisis - in pictures A sinking boat is seen behind a Turkish gendarme off the coast of Canakkale's Bademli district on January 30, 2016. At least 33 migrants drowned on January 30 when their boat sank in the Aegean Sea while trying to cross from Turkey to Greece. Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A general view of a shelter for migrants inside a hangar of the former Tempelhof airport in Berlin, Germany Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees protest behind a fence against restrictions limiting passage at the Greek-Macedonian border, near Gevgelija. Since last week, Macedonia has restricted passage to northern Europe to only Syrians, Iraqis and Afghans who are considered war refugees. All other nationalities are deemed economic migrants and told to turn back. Macedonia has finished building a fence on its frontier with Greece becoming the latest country in Europe to build a border barrier aimed at checking the flow of refugees Refugee crisis - in pictures A father and his child wait after being caught by Turkish gendarme on 27 January 2016 at Canakkale's Kucukkuyu district Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants make hand signals as they arrive into the southern Spanish port of Malaga on 27 January, 2016 after an inflatable boat carrying 55 Africans, seven of them women and six chidren, was rescued by the Spanish coast guard off the Spanish coast. Refugee crisis - in pictures A refugee holds two children as dozens arrive on an overcrowded boat on the Greek island of Lesbos Refugee crisis - in pictures A child, covered by emergency blankets, reacts as she arrives, with other refugees and migrants, on the Greek island of Lesbos, At least five migrants including three children, died after four boats sank between Turkey and Greece, as rescue workers searched the sea for dozens more, the Greek coastguard said Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants wait under outside the Moria registration camp on the Lesbos. Over 400,000 people have landed on Greek islands from neighbouring Turkey since the beginning of the year Refugee crisis - in pictures The bodies of Christian refugees are buried separately from Muslim refugees at the Agios Panteleimonas cemetery in Mytilene, Lesbos Refugee crisis - in pictures Macedonian police officers control a crowd of refugees as they prepare to enter a camp after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A refugee tries to force the entry to a camp as Macedonian police officers control a crowd after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees are seen aboard a Turkish fishing boat as they arrive on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing a part of the Aegean Sea from the Turkish coast to Lesbos Reuters Refugee crisis - in pictures An elderly woman sings a lullaby to baby on a beach after arriving with other refugees on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A man collapses as refugees make land from an overloaded rubber dinghy after crossing the Aegean see from Turkey, at the island of Lesbos EPA Refugee crisis - in pictures A girl reacts as refugees arrive by boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees make a show of hands as they queue after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures People help a wheelchair user board a train with others, heading towards Serbia, at the transit camp for refugees near the southern Macedonian town of Gevgelija AP Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees board a train, after crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, near Gevgelija. Macedonia is a key transit country in the Balkans migration route into the EU, with thousands of asylum seekers - many of them from Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia - entering the country every day Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures An aerial picture shows the "New Jungle" refugee camp where some 3,500 people live while they attempt to enter Britain, near the port of Calais, northern France Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A Syrian girl reacts as she helped by a volunteer upon her arrival from Turkey on the Greek island of Lesbos, after having crossed the Aegean Sea EPA Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees arrive by boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Beds ready for use for migrants and refugees are prepared at a processing center on January 27, 2016 in Passau, Germany. The flow of migrants arriving in Passau has dropped to between 500 and 1,000 per day, down significantly from last November, when in the same region up to 6,000 migrants were arriving daily.

Major refugee routes run through Africa, with smugglers transporting migrants in desperate conditions through countries  including Ethiopia, Sudan and Libya  on lengthy journeys that not all survive.

Nations chosen by the EU will be offered diplomatic, technical and financial incentives and aid as part of the scheme, although no details have been announced.

A spokesperson said the policy aimed to save lives at sea, increase returns, address the root causes of migration and enable migrants and refugees to stay closer to home.

Federica Mogherini, Vice-President of the European Commission, said migration could only be managed if nations act globally.

For this reason, we are proposing a new approach for strong partnerships with key countries, she added.

Our goal, while staying focused on saving lives at sea and dismantling smugglers' networks, is to support the countries that host so many people and foster growth in our partner countriesour duty, and also our interest, is to give people the chance and the means for a safe and decent life.

 Refugee shipwreck survivors arrive in Italy

More than 47,000 Eritreans applied for asylum in Europe last year, with many having made the deadliest sea crossing in the world between Libya and Italy.

The UN said many cited indefinite military service as the reason for their flight, with Mr Smith saying between 300,000 and 400,000 people were enslaved in Eritrea, mostly through conscription. The Eritrean government, which did not grant UN investigators access, has denied any wrongdoing.

Eritrea rejects the politically motivated and groundless accusations and the destructive recommendations of the COI, presidential advisor Yemane Gebreab said a statement. It believes they are an unwarranted attack not only against Eritrea, but also Africa and developing nations.

The EUs Emergency Trust Fund for Africa is being topped up with 1 billion (800,000)  as the work continues.

The European Commission has not yet responded to The Independent's request for a comment.Syrian president Bashar al-Assad is to meet Kim Jong-un in North Korea, according to state media in Pyongyang.

Mr Assad announced the visit during a meeting with the North Korean ambassador  but did not set a date.

The two rogue states have strengthened ties in recent years while facing international pressure over the Syrian civil war and the North Korean nuclear weapons programme.

North Korea has been accused by United Nations experts of sending equipment to Syria that could be used in the production of chemical weapons.

The US and UK launched airstrikes against the Syrian regime in April in response to a gas attack which reportedly killed dozens of people in Douma, just outside of the capital Damascus.

Syria opened a park named after Kims grandfather Kim Il-sung to mark the 70th anniversary of Koreas liberation in 2015.

North Koreas ambassador was quoted on that occasion as saying he was confident that Syria would achieve the final victory in its fight against aggression.

President Assad used the same phrase during a meeting with North Korean ambassador Mun Jong-nam on 30 May this year, according to the Koran Central News Agency (KCNA).

I am going to visit the DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea] and meet HE [His Excellency] Kim Jong-un, Mr Assad was quoted as saying.

The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political calibre and wise leadership of HE Kim Jong-un.

I am sure that he will achieve the final victory and realise the reunification of Korea without fail.

The Syrian government will as ever fully support all policies and measures of the DPRK leadership and invariably strengthen and develop the friendly ties with the DPRK.

Mr Kim has not hosted a foreign leader in Pyongyang since becoming leader in 2011 but has recently met the Chinese president Xi Jinping and South Korean president Moon Jae-in.

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 is expected to meet US president Donald Trump in Singapore on 12 June.

The US president had cancelled the summit after North Korean officials called vice president Mike Pence a political dummy.

Negotiations restarted earlier this week and on Friday a letter from Kim Jong-un was hand delivered to Mr Trump at the White House.Ivan Zaytsev surged back to top form as Italy rebounded from their first Volleyball Nations League defeat to sink Iran 3-0 (25-23, 25-18, 25-20) on Saturday.Zaytsev, the prolific and hard-hitting Italian wing spiker, had struggled in his teams loss to Canada a day earlier but was back to his best in racking up 14 attacking points to comfortably see off Irans challenge.Osmany Juantorena was strong and consistent again and contributed 11 points of his own to ensured Italys cruised to their fourth win after five games of VNL action.Milad Ebadipour was firing again for Iran and came up with 11 total points, yet the team was unable to conjure another positive result to follow on from its previous victory over host nation Argentina.There was a whole different level of energy about Italy as the fourth-ranked team in the world was clearly on a mission to show they can be a serious threat in the competition and the intensity was too much for their opponents to handle.The opening set was tight and tense but the Italians seemed to relish the struggle. Juantorenas elbow problems from earlier in the tournament seemed to be behind him as he led the way early, combining fierce offense with fine court-positioning to open up a small gap.Iran, ranked eight, fought hard and when Ali Shafiei blocked Juantorena to make it 23-24 it looked as they might sneak out of trouble. However, a Seyed Eraghi fault on set point let Italy off the hook, and set the tone for the rest of the match.Momentum was now firmly in the Italian camp and Gianlorenzo Blenginis side was suddenly full of confidence, and unafraid to show off its swagger. Luigi Randazzo produced one of the serves of the tournament with a swirling, dipping effort for an ace to make it 20-14 and Simone Anzani followed up an imposing block at the net with a scream of delight to send Italy on its way.Iran was suffering, and though Igor Kolakovic called a clever challenge with no timeouts left to give his squad a breather, it ultimately made little difference as his team slumped to a seven-point reversal.After winning its last six five-setters in a row Iran would have liked its chances in a decider, but getting to that point was always going to be a major obstacle. Italys repeated its habit of making solid starts to each set, and while Ebadipour put up a fight and got things close at 16-14 with an ace, the all-round game of the European side was the telling difference.Zaytsev is near-impossible to stop when he is in full flow and his huge smash to establish a late four-point lead seemed to knock the last bit of fight out of Iran. Libero Massimo Colaci finished things off on the final point and just like that, all seemed well in the Italian camp once more. Blenginis team will cap things off in San Juan by taking on Argentina, while Iran will meet Canada in their final encounter of the round.Italys win took them to 11 points and fifth place in the VNL table - and well in contention for a finals slot as things stand. Irans tally of five points is good enough for 11th place after five matches.



Shillong, June 3 : The situation is still tense in violent-hit Shillong, capital city of Meghalaya also known as Scotland of East, but under control, while the army is on standby for necessary act.





The District administration of East Khasi Hills has relaxed curfew for seven hours in the curfew bound areas in Shillong on Sunday form 8 am to 3 pm.





The District Magistrate of East Khasi Hills district, in a late night order issued on Saturday that, the areas where curfew has been relaxed includes Mawkhar, Jaiaw, Umsohsun, Wahingdoh, Riatsamthiah, Mawprem, Lumdienggjri, Mission, Lamavila, Qualapaty, Wahthapbru, Sunny Hill, Cantonment, Mawlong Hat including Cantonment Beat House areas.





Deputy Commissioner (in-charge) of East Khasi Hills district, Peter S Dkhar said that, curfew has been relaxed in the curfew bound areas for seven hours on Sunday to allow the people to buy their essential commodities.





The Deputy Commissioner (in-charge) of East Khasi Hills district also said that, the army is standby and will be deployed if the situation warrents.





The East Khasi Hills district administration had imposed indefinite curfew in areas under Lumdiengjri police Station and Cantonment Beat House from 4 am on Friday following a violent clash between police and a mob on Thursday night.





Peter S Dkhar said that, night curfew will be continued in various areas under Shillong region and internet services remain suspended.





On the other hand, the District Magistrate (DM) of East Khasi Hills district has issued an order under Section 144 of the CrPC prohibiting the sale of petrol, diesel etc in loose jericans, bottles and any other containers to members of the public by all the petrol Pumps within the district.





On Saturday, violating curfew miscreants had attacked several vehicles including five tourist vehicles going from Guwahati and also damaged shops, houses in Shillong.





At least 10 tourists including a child were injured in the miscreants attacked on vehicles.





Several tourists are still stranded at hotels in Shillong.





To control the situation, army had conducted flag march in several areas in Shillong region.



It was striking to note the portents of doom heralded by various sections of the media around the issue of the so-called constitutional crisis besetting Italy. This was, as they saw it, yet another nail in the EUs coffin post-Brexit.

Much to their disappointment, this issue was quickly resolved, with a new populist government comprising the Five Star Movement and League sworn in. This saw a previous Eurosceptic economy minister being replaced with Giovanni Tria, who is in favour of Italys continued membership of the eurozone.

Every so often certain wings of the press seemingly rejoice in such matters, heralding this as the beginning of the end of the EU.

It is, however, striking to look at the actual support there is for EU membership within the member countries. The latest polling from the Eurobarometer survey, published in May, highlights the fact that two-thirds of Europeans believe their country has benefited from being a member of the EU; the highest number for 35 years. In addition 60 per cent consider EU membership a good thing. This includes Italy where more than twice as many view EU membership as a good thing than a bad thing. Likewise, in Brexit Britain, almost twice as many people view EU membership as a good thing, by 43 per cent to 23 per cent.

Despite the licking of lips by those who see every major issue facing a member state as heralding the breakup of the EU, the simple facts which highlight its popularity get in the way of this happening.

Alex Orr

Edinburgh

The Visa payments fiasco should prompt a rethink from HMRC

The massive Visa payments outage across Europe should give everyone pause for thought about our over-reliance on the internet and cyberspace generally. I hope this reflection will extend to HM Revenue and Customs, whose Making Tax Digital for Business policy will compel all but the smallest businesses to use cloud-based accounting packages.

From April next year the scheme will apply to all businesses registered for VAT. With the VAT registration threshold being an annual turnover (not profit) of only 85,000, even quite modest businesses will be caught by this rule.

It is easy to see the attractions to the HMRC of this policy. The scheme allows them to access businesses books from the comfort of their own offices with the expectation of both saving money and at the same time extracting more tax.

However, what about resilience? The government is very good at talking about this, while at the same time encouraging and frequently, as in this case, compelling us to do exactly the opposite.

HMRC should have a fundamental rethink of this policy and at the very least restrict it to corporate-scale businesses.

Otto Inglis

Edinburgh

The EU isnt as undemocratic as people say

In his letter on Saturday, Gavin Lewis raises a question about the democratic credentials of the EU. His point about democracy is often raised by Brexit supporters, but unfortunately he is wrong in his implication that the European Council is the same as the European Commission.

This Wikipedia entry may help Mr Lewis.

The European Council, charged with defining the European Unions (EU) overall political direction and priorities, is the institution of the EU that comprises the heads of state or government of the member states, along with the president of the European Council and the president of the European Commission.

Twenty-eight elected heads of state sounds pretty democratic to me; pity that all of us in the UK are not aware of this.

Nick Haward

Havant

America and China will decide our future

While we obsess about taking ourselves out of Europe or the even more absurd hiving Scotland off from the UK, the future is being shaped by the rivalry between America and China.

Trumps steel and aluminium tariffs are simply payback for his supporters in the US Rust Belt. The 21st-century economic battle will certainly not be about metal but the new technologies.

The fact that China is pursuing that strategy on the back of stolen US technology and intellectual property is ominous. Silicon Valleys blend of innovation and finance will be hard to beat.

In comparison the SNPs Growth Commission report is trivial. Its only effect will be to kick the prospects for Scottish independence into the long grass but for that it deserves our thanks.

Rev Dr John Cameron

St Andrews

Count yourself lucky, Lisa

Was it so grim up north, Lisa?

Having read Elizabeth Aubreys interview with Lisa Stansfield I feel its a shame that she felt it necessary to be so personally abusive about her careers officer who I assume was trying to offer realistic support and advice on career choices: She had too many teeth and a lot of moles with hairs sticking out. Having previously worked with the Rochdale careers officer team and in education for 35 years I can honestly say that I have not worked with a more caring, supportive and professional group of colleagues. The appropriate advice to at least consider a backup in case a singing career did not work out was obviously taken in the wrong way.

What a shame Stansfield did not take the opportunity to give credit to her music and drama teachers who most likely provided her with the encouragement to pursue her dreams. How lucky she was to attend an impressive high school in Rochdale with a purpose-built 700 seat theatre on school premises!

Name and address supplied

And the award goes to...

According to your article, Kim wants someone to pay for his $6000-per-night Singapore hotel room.

Considering that these meetings between Kim and the Master Negotiator Donald Trump could potentially create a safer world, would it not be appropriate for The Independent to set up a crowdfunding page, if only to shame the US?

The potential for your newspaper could be a share in the Nobel Peace Price?

Gunter Straub

LondonIs the trade skirmish  lets not call it a war yet  going to do serious damage to the world economy? Or is President Trump using aggression as a negotiating stance and eventually a fairer trading relationship between the US and other major economies will be developed?

It matters a lot not just for the world economy now but also for the future. At the moment global growth is strong, driven largely by the long boom in the United States, the worlds largest economy. This strong growth means that it would take a pretty big blow to derail it. Trade restrictions are damaging but the world economy is tough. But for the future, any rowing back from the gradual opening of trading conditions that has taken place since the Second World War could really undermine what would otherwise be a very positive long-term outlook.

So what should we look for in the weeks ahead?

Well, there are three things right now. One is the fight between the EU and the US over steel and aluminium tariffs. How does Europe retaliate? Tariffs on bourbon  forcing us to drink more Scotch and Irish instead? It is all a bit childish at the moment, and that is not a good start. What Europe needs to do is to acknowledge that the administration has a point. There is a large trade and services deficit with the EU, or rather some parts of the EU, particularly Germany. (The UK is close to a current balance with America.) Germany is running a current account surplus equivalent to 8 per cent of its GDP. That is because the world wants to buy German stuff and the country is to be credited for the quality of its engineering, if not for its cheating over emission standards. But that level of surplus is unsustainable.

Next there is the future of Nafta. Canada and Mexico are caught up in the steel and aluminium tariff row, but there is a bigger game here. That is whether the North American continent can continue on the march towards a free trade zone. Nafta is by no means perfect, and there are all sorts of minor barriers to open trade. But it is a base from which you can negotiate. The US is the dominant partner in these negotiations and so does not need to throw its weight about. But it also needs a friend to the north and a friend to the south, along undefended borders. Does the president know this? Or is the drama of beating up your friends more attractive?

Third, there is the long-term relationship with China. Negotiations are taking place in Beijing right now, but I am not particularly troubled by what will come out of these. Numbers matter more than words. So by how much does Chinas trade surplus with the US, currently running at more than $350bn a year, come down? Does China really open up its industries to foreign ownership? The present outlook is for China to seek to cut its surplus, perhaps to $200bn a year, and that is a start. But opening up to the world is the bigger long-term issue. Clues about that are really interesting.

So far all this is about the main trading blocs and how they cope in the coming weeks with a different and disruptive style of negotiating from the US. I dont think castigating the president for this is helpful. The US has long had a protectionist streak running through its politics and will have it long after the present administration is ended. What troubles me is this: is protectionism gaining popularity among the American electorate? If it is, then the rest of the world has to cope with it, first by looking in the mirror, and next by thoughtful diplomacy.

Finally, all this is not just about the US and its current leadership. Will the rest of the world carry on opening up trade relations, both in physical trade and in trade in services? Or will protectionism spread? What does India, which will within a generation probably become the worlds third largest economy, think about free trade? Is Europe committed to free trade, given that it has substantial barriers to imports of some goods and particularly to services? I am not so worried about the US now, for this is a phase, but much more concerned about the world beyond in three and more years time.Foreign investment banks must not get a blank check to operate in the EU and should face tighter controls, France has told the bloc's member states in a document seen by Reuters.

The EU proposed a draft law last December to tighten wholesale market access to trade stocks, bonds, currencies and derivatives for institutional customers in the bloc.

But in a "non-paper" or discussion document likely to send a chill through Britain's financial sector ahead of Brexit, France said the draft law does not go far enough.

"Even though this is a first useful step, it fails to address the many shortcomings identified in this non-paper," the document said.

EU financial services market access is granted under the EU's "equivalence" system.

This is where Brussels deems a foreign firm's home rules to be as strict as those policed in the bloc.

Unless Britain gets the bespoke EU trade deal it wants, its financial firms would have to rely on equivalence after it leaves the bloc next March.

France believes that the equivalence system was not designed to deal with a major financial centre like London on the EU's doorstep.

Reuters

Job fears at drugs watchdog

Europe's drug watchdog is bracing for higher-than-anticipated staff departures due to its Brexit-induced move to Amsterdam, raising pressure on the agency that oversees medication safety for about 500 million people.

A host of issues, including the effect of local labour laws on short-term contracts, could boost employee losses at the European Medicines Agency beyond 19pc, the level it estimated last year, Executive Director Guido Rasi said.

Hitting that target will be "very challenging", he said.

Bloomberg

May to meet business leaders

British business leaders will meet UK Prime Minister Theresa May tomorrow to discuss Brexit and investment, May's spokeswoman said.

The meeting will discuss how the UK can attract more investment and what practical support the government can offer, a source added.

Monday's meeting at May's Downing Street office will be the latest in a series of such meetings with business leaders ahead of Britain's exit from the European Union next year. Sky News said bosses from Aston Martin, BT, GlaxoSmithKline and Tesco would be among those attending.

ReutersNora Sheehan and her husband Connie have been growing potatoes and vegetables at their farm in Castletownroche in north Cork for 28 years but as with many growers, their future is far from certain.

Since the early 1990s, the Sheehans have sold their Kerr's Pink and Rooster potatoes to the once booming wholesale trade, but this market is now in severe decline and many growers have left the business altogether.

"The wholesale market was a huge market for us in the 1990s, now it's a dwindling market. It supplies town shops and corner shops but that is a small market now," says Nora.

"We planted more than 40 acres in the past but this year it's 30 acres, as the market is just not there.

"All small to medium growers are in a similar situation to us. They're dropping their acreages and some are not growing any more."

As well as growing 30-40 acres of potatoes, the Sheehans also grow cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage.

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Nora, who is vice-chairperson of the IFA's potato committee, maintains that the below-cost selling practice that supermarkets are engaging in is "unacceptable" - it shows a "lack of respect" for the work the farmer does to ensure the consumer has a supply of potatoes all year round.

"Potatoes and vegetables should never be sold below cost," she insists. "It undermines the primary producer. Supermarkets should respect the investment that farmers make in cold storage so that there's continued supply of Irish produce all year.

"There should never be a time of year when they're sold below cost as it's a very volatile market. Even at Christmas time they're sold at below cost when there should be no reason to be because there's high consumption."

Nora adds that below-cost selling leads to over-buying, "which is bad for the consumer in the long run as it encourages food waste".

While some potato growers have chosen to expand in an attempt to combat poor prices, Nora says that the majority of small to medium growers are either reducing their acreage or abandoning growing completely.

"The balance of power lies with the retail chains," she says. "They're at the top as the price setters and the primary producers are price takers at the bottom that have no say in it. Once they're pushed out they won't go back. I know several growers here who dropped from growing 30 acres to zero.

"It's like the dairy farmer -you either get bigger or you get out. It's a pity for small farmers out there."

In the 1990s, potatoes were mostly hand-picked in the field by local teenagers, but the Sheehans now hire contractors to do the machinery work. It is one of the many expenses involved in running the operation and makes the prices paid for potatoes in supermarkets "even more unfair".

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"Local teenagers used to do the majority of the work but now they're not willing to do the same type of physical work," Nora explains. "There are huge expenses now compared to years ago. Seeds are very expensive and you have to replace them every year.

"We pay 600 per tonne for roosters, which retail at 3 per kg, which is 300 per tonne and the same story applies to cabbage and cauliflower."

The poor weather since last autumn has wreaked havoc on potato planting and vegetable harvesting nationwide. An estimated 1,000 acres of the country's potato crop were still in the ground at the end of the year.

"We were four weeks behind planting our potatoes which we finished last week and four weeks behind harvesting our spring cabbage which we usually harvest around St Patrick's Day but couldn't this year because of the weather," says Nora.

"We will be a month behind in everything overall."

She adds that many potato growers are six weeks behind target and that yields nationwide are likely to be down this year. However, she is hopeful that this scarcity might lead to a jump in prices.

Nora and Connie's twins Siobhan and Conor (14) both help out with planting and harvesting, but Nora admits that she would be "exceptionally worried" if either of them decided to follow in their parents' footsteps as potato farmers.

"They'd nearly need another job to make a living out of it but it's a full-time type of working and very labour intensive so it's hard for people to do that," she says.

Consumption

"With the way the weather is and how the lifestyle is going I wouldn't be encouraging them to get into it but I'd hate to see a day where there are no more small producers."

Three years ago, the IFA and Bord Bia launched the 'Potato - More Than a Bit on the Side' campaign. While Nora says she hasn't seen an increase in sales on her farm, consumption countrywide has increased, which she finds encouraging.

While she is of the generation that loves to boil potatoes, the campaign's website has 140 recipes that make potatoes more attractive to the modern consumer and have helped debunk the myth that potatoes are unhealthy.

"We needed to move on with the times. Lifestyles have changed and after work people don't want to be waiting around for the potatoes to boil," says Nora. "There's still a myth that potatoes are full of fat but they're the perfect carbohydrate as they're fat-free."

For all of its challenges, Nora and Connie love potato farming.

"It's a lovely business and lovely to be able to supply consumers with food so fast," she says. "I'd hate to see small farms go out of business. This is our life. It's our culture and heritage.

"It would be awful to see the day where there's no small producers. Small producers have a personal touch and care about quality. If we have to import more potatoes, customers will have to pay extra."Aer Lingus remains confident that its expansion plans for next summer will not be hindered, despite production delays at Airbus that could delay its new fleet of long-haul aircraft.

It has ordered a fleet of eight Airbus A321neo long-range aircraft that are seen as a potential game-changer because of the flexibility and efficiency they will provide on transatlantic routes.

But airplane maker Airbus has been dogged with production delays, particularly with regard to engines. One informed source said the Aer Lingus order could face delays of up to six months, meaning the new aircraft would not be available for any planned expansion next summer. Another source said that although the order was officially still on schedule, delays were possible.

Asked to comment, Aer Lingus chief corporate affairs officer Donal Moriarty said: "Whilst Airbus is experiencing some production delays on the A321neo LR aircraft, we will work with our leasing partner and with Airbus to minimise any delays to deliveries to Aer Lingus. We do not expect our first deliveries to be delayed to the third quarter of 2019. Similarly, we expect there to be no impact on the timing of any announcements of new routes."

But he said the airline was concerned about significant capacity constraints in Dublin: "The airport is full. Urgent steps therefore need to be taken to address the infrastructure deficits at the airport. Prior to the delivery of such infrastructure, significant process improvement and optimisation of existing infrastructure is required to address the congestion and to facilitate growth."Name

Michael Hoey

Age

55

Position

Managing director, Country Crest

Lives

Skerries, Co Dublin

Family

Married to Geraldine with three children, Emma, Grace and Orla

Pets

Lassie collies Ben, Millie and Jake

Pastimes

Restoring vintage tractors

Favourite holiday

Touring Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales

Favourite book

A Billion the Hard Way by J R Simplot

Favourite movie

Any James Bond movie

Favourite piece of business advice

"I have always firmly believed that real business is about driving in that stake in the distance and then keeping firmly focused on it."

North county Dublin agri-food business Country Crest turned 25 in recent weeks, but its co-founder Michael Hoey barely had time to celebrate.

Few winters in those 25 years have been quite as challenging as the one just past. Between hurricanes, snow storms and incessant wind, rain and cold, the Country Crest planting schedule ran a month later than normal. And since the sun finally came out, Hoey has spent long hours on his tractor playing catch up in the fertile fields around the village of Lusk, where the company is based.

"A month ago there were no potatoes in the ground and everything has had to be planted in the last month," says Hoey, who set up the company with his brother Gabriel. Despite running one of the country's largest food suppliers, the pair still take a very hands on approach to the business.

"The weather has had a huge effect on the crops going into the ground. We have only just finished planting. It has been trying and difficult and hard on the nerves at times, as it has been for all sectors of agriculture. All the crops are in the ground now. Please God they'll grow properly, but it definitely is a late year."

But, says Hoey, the company has seen this before and is well able to cope with whatever the weather throws at it.

"It's been hard on any producer this winter, regardless of their size. But that's the produce industry. It is not like making chocolate bars where you put in the ingredients and get the same results every time."

The Hoey's operation is actually made up of two separate entities. Ballymaguire Foods is the largest chilled ready-meals producer in Ireland, while Country Crest itself is one of the biggest suppliers of potatoes, sweet potatoes and onions to Irish retailers. Earlier this year it extended a 20-year relationship with Tesco in a 60m deal.

Both businesses are growing strongly. To enable this growth, the family-owned company will invest almost 6m this year. A 3m phase of its investment plan to give Ballymaguire an extra 20pc output has just finished in recent weeks. But it is not pausing for breath. A similar amount will be invested into the produce side of the business, Country Crest.

During the recession years, the company kept investing but, says Hoey, it kept things tight.

"I think the confidence is back now. If you are serious about expanding your customer base then you have to invest. We make lots of mistakes, but it is about learning from them and driving on."

The business has been very good for the area. Locals speak of the generosity of the Hoey brothers, with older residents nearby sometimes finding a bag of potatoes or a tray of vegetables left quietly and anonymously on their doorstep at Christmas.

There have been more tangible benefits for locals too from Country Crest's growth. The company now employs 340 full-time staff, up by close to 100 people just two years ago.

"Even during the recession years, thank God, we never had to let anybody go. It is challenging now to find people but we are very lucky to have a young, energetic team that has driven our success," he says.

Hoey says that he and his brother are also very grateful to their customers - who range from the various big supermarket giants to smaller but exciting food companies like The Happy Pear.

Country Crest's investment decisions are driven by its customers' needs and expectations.

"The supermarkets have a tough job these days because competition is fierce. If we're not there to support them as suppliers it would be very difficult for them. We have to have the latest technologies."

The modern consumer is extremely discerning in terms of the food they buy, says Hoey, and therefore it is up to suppliers like Country Crest to ensure high standards and full traceability. The Lusk company built its reputation and its business on operating to the highest standards but "the day of any company in business pulling the wool over a customer's eyes is well and truly gone".

"As producers, we need stay up to date with things like precision farming, completely integrated crop management and ingredient selection.

"People have become very health conscious. I heard someone say recently that millennials are the most looked after generation ever. A lot of businesses are now trying to grasp that opportunity."

Bad weather might come and go, but one dark cloud from which there is no likely break is Brexit. Hoey says that Country Crest is in a constant state of preparation for what that might bring.

"We just don't know what it looks like yet. Take the regulations around seed movements for instance. We have quite a few growers in Donegal and we'd be concerned as to how they are going to manage machinery movements and sanitary certs going from one jurisdiction to another."

Much of the seed potato used in Ireland by growers like Country Crest is grown in Scotland, where the cooler climate is ideal for ensuring there are no pests and diseases. If Brexit creates a blockage to the import of that seed then Country Crest would have to look for it elsewhere in Europe where conditions are not as ideal, he says.

"We are anxious that those things are dealt with. We are in constant communication with the Department of Agriculture to try and understand where this is going," he says.

Nevertheless, Hoey believes the dark Brexit cloud also has a silver lining for Country Crest and others in the industry in Ireland: "It's about finding opportunities in, for example, import substitution. There's always opportunities."

Irish supermarkets, he says, ship huge amounts of product across the Irish Sea every night.

"There's gaps that we can fill. And when I say we I am not talking about just Country Crest - I'm talking about all the Irish people in produce. There are absolutely fabulous food producers in Ireland. Brexit is a negative - there's no point in saying it is not - but there are also opportunities in it and the industry has to harness them before they're gone."

In total, less than a fifth of Country Crest's business is with the UK so Hoey is not overly concerned. He also feels that Irish standards will help the industry as a whole retain much of its business with Britain regardless of the outcome of Brexit.

"They talk about the UK sourcing cheap food all around the world and I know that the buyers in the UK are concerned that they are going to have to start going elsewhere for food. I don't believe that is ever going to happen. They need to have a confidence in their supply chain 365 days a year. The UK has the highest food standards in the world and British people are simply not going to just abandon those standards for cheap food from wherever they can get it. They buy Irish food and Irish beef because they trust it and they know that Irish producers understand their quality systems. That is not going to dwindle away overnight."

Nevertheless, Hoey is passionate about the need for constant development in the Irish food industry to stave off challenges such as Brexit. He is actively involved in encouraging a resumption of the sugar beet industry in the southeast of the country and thinks Brexit will only further increase the rationale for doing so. Irish farmers, he says, were some of the best sugar beet growers in Europe and, after lobbying by himself and others, are no longer barred from the industry by quotas.

"The sugar industry was a living and a way of life for a lot of people in that part of the country and I think it was wrong that it went away."

The Hoeys have done more than pay lip service to the issue. In January they bought a site in Castledermot on the Kildare/Carlow border, which they have earmarked for a future sugar plant. For the plan to move ahead it will require a major financial commitment of as much as 300m, which is a level of investment that could only be raised with backing from something like the National Pension Reserve Fund and perhaps a major sugar industry operator.

"It is a big sum of money but this is an industry for the next 50 to 100 years," he says.

There is no definitive plan as yet as to how the project moves to the next phase, but Hoey believes that the idea of a farmer-owned sugar business can work here and already works successfully across Europe. Given that sugar beet can also be used for bioenergy and animal fodder, rising oil prices and the animal feed crisis only add to the rationale for a resumption of sugar growing.

"We want to facilitate the farmers in this. It was always our idea that the farmers would own a significant piece of this business. We have had lots of talks with the local farmers and I think they are definitely very interested. If the growers want this badly enough it can happen. It can't be left too long because the knowledge of the growers will disappear but it is one of the best things that could happen for those communities in that area.

"We have put a lot of the pieces of the jigsaw in place and I would love to see it up and running again, for young farmers and for keeping people on farms. I think there is going to be a huge problem here in the future with a scarcity of professional expert farmers and growers. We need the likes of the sugar beet sector to keep this industry going."

For Hoey, resurrecting such an important industry is just the latest challenge from a lifetime of building a hugely successful and sustainable agri food operation: "Myself and Gabriel have had to jump off a lot of ledges over the years. There have been a lot of sleepless nights and we've put a lot of strain on our families at times. I don't know how they put up with us."

But Hoey is blessed with the matter of fact nature native to rural north county Dublin: "This is only a success as long as we keep putting the work in," he says like a sunbaked weatherman, eyes watching for clouds on the horizon. "We never lose sight of the fact that failure is only a step away."Irish oil and gas explorer Tullow Oil is interested in new oil blocks off Ghana's coast as part of its plans to consolidate its operations in the West African nation, chief executive Paul McDade said.

Tullow is leading two operations off the coast of Ghana, including the country's flagship 100,000 barrel-per-day Jubilee field, which began commercial production in late 2010.

Ghana's energy ministry said this month it would award nine new upstream oil blocks for commercial exploration off its coast beginning this year.

"We as a company want to consolidate our presence in Ghana after our investments in Jubilee and TEN (the Tweneboa, Enyenra, Ntomme project). We don't want to stop there but keep growing," McDade told reporters in Accra, where he was meeting investors.

"We'd like to go and look at the new licenses being opened, we'd look at them from a geological point of view and if we find them attractive, you'd find us bidding for them," he said.

Tullow has given up plans to reduce its stake in its TEN field which came on stream two years ago because the need for raising capital from the sale no longer existed, McDade said.

McDade was speaking a week after the government of Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra cancelled his predecessor's decision to award five offshore oil contracts to Tullow. The reversal was seen as a victory for fishermen and environmentalists who said that exploration and drilling would have put important fisheries and whale breeding grounds at risk.

It was another setback for efforts to shore up slumping energy investments in Peru, a relatively small oil producer where past bidding rounds have failed to draw offers.

Tullow said it would consider "next steps".

The revocation "is deeply disappointing", said George Cazenove, Tullow's head of communications.

"Tullow has complied with the process and procedures required under Peruvian law."

Earlier last month, the Peruvian comptroller's office said it had found nothing illegal about the contracts, but that the process of granting oil concessions through direct talks should be more transparent and give other stakeholders more say.

The contracts came under fire after Peruvians learned the disgraced former president, Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, had signed five decrees authorising them just before stepping down in March ahead of an impeachment vote.

Despite Kuczynski's approval, the contracts themselves were never signed, state energy promoter Perupetro said.

Vizcarra's government said Perupetro had negotiated the contracts directly with Tullow without giving communities along Peru's northern coast enough time to weigh in.

ReutersThe peak summer travel season will kick off in a few weeks - so if you haven't yet booked your holiday and are hoping to travel in the next three months, you could find it too expensive to do so. Playing by a few rules however could boost your chances of getting a good deal. Getting the best price on flights is a good start.

Book early on

Many travel agents and airlines update their offers at the start of the week - and then advertise those offers on Mondays or Tuesdays. So these days are often the best day to grab the latest deals or discounts.

Research by Skyscanner.ie, the global flight search website, has found that Monday is the cheapest day to book flights on. A spokeswoman for Aer Lingus says it generally announces sales and special offers on Tuesdays. Avoid booking flights at weekends as it could work out more expensive than if you booked mid-week. "Weekends may be a dearer time to book a flight, as a lot of people are on websites and booking flights," said Sarah Slattery, founder of the travel website, thetravelexpert.ie.

Travel off peak

You could save hundreds, perhaps thousands, by travelling in early autumn - as this is typically an off-peak travel time. For those willing to sacrifice nice weather and long days, travelling during the winter months is also usually cheaper. Off-peak seasons vary depending on the destination. The cheapest month to fly from Dublin to Bangkok is September while March is the cheapest month to fly to New York - and January is the cheapest month for flights to Amsterdam and Faro, according to Skyscanner.

Beware baggage fees

Take the cost of baggage into account when comparing flights, as any savings you think you're making with a particular carrier could be eaten up by baggage charges.

With Ethiopian Airlines' economy fare, you can check in two 23kg pieces of luggage for free if flying to the United States. With Norwegian Airlines' cheapest fare (LowFare), there is no check-in baggage allowance included, so you must pay a fee if checking in luggage. If flying with Norwegian Airlines from Dublin to New York this summer, it will cost 160 to check in a bag for your return flight under its LowFare rate. The more expensive fares from Norwegian Airlines have a check-in baggage allowance. "Be careful with baggage and in-flight food if travelling with low-cost airlines," said Slattery. "Most people shop when they travel to the US so they usually need to check in a bag."

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Don't group book

It may work out cheaper to split up a booking if travelling with a group of people, rather than to book the entire group at the same time. "If flying with four or five different people, check the price for one or two people," said Clare Dunne, managing director of The Travel Broker. "You could end up with a cheaper price if you book for three people first - and then two people."

Try your travel agent

Don't overlook your travel agent for flights, as many agents have flight-only deals. "Tour operators like TUI and Sunway have paid in advance for their flights and they often have to sell them off cheaply," said Slattery.

Travel agents can also have good last-minute deals on flights and packages - for those who have the freedom to book a holiday a week or two in advance and who are flexible on destination. "Typically with airlines, the nearer you get to the date, the more expensive the flight," said Dunne.

Remember, you could get your accommodation and flights through a travel agent for the same price that you would only get your flights for if you book directly with an airline. This could save you hundreds (or more) on accommodation.

Sunway recently advertised a special offer of three nights in Dubai in September for 525 per person sharing. That price included return flights to Dubai and three nights accommodation in a three-star hotel - based on two adults sharing. "You'd easily pay 500 per person for a return flight from Dublin to Dubai - if booking directly with an airline," said Slattery. Tropical Sky recently advertised a week's holiday in Thailand's Krabi province in August and September for 1,169 per person - based on two people sharing. That price included seven nights accommodation in a five-star resort, flights, transfers and checked baggage. You could pay more than 1,000 for a return flight to Bangkok from Dublin in August - if booking directly with an airline.

Try late August

You may still be able to get a good last-minute deal for a holiday in mid-June - or in the last week of August. "The last week of August is a great week for deals as a lot of schools start early -or else parents have that week off at home to prepare for back-to-school," said Slattery. "The first week of September is also good for deals."

Avoid the crowds

Being open to alternative or less traditional holiday spots could slash the cost of your trip. For example, holidaying in the Netherlands, Germany or Belgium this summer could save you a few hundred euro - because flights into those countries are often much cheaper than flights into tourist hotspots in Spain, France and Italy.

In Aer Lingus' latest summer sale, Amsterdam and Hamburg were the cheapest cities to fly to - with the price of one-way flights from Dublin starting from 35. Brussels and Munich were the second cheapest - from 40 one-way. However, flights to Spain, France and Italy were up to three times the price. A one-way flight from Dublin into Catania in Sicily started from 124, while one-way flights into Tenerife started from 122. One-way flights into Perpignan in the south of France started from 120. So being flexible with your destination could save you a few hundred euro (or more). Should you have your heart set on Spain, holidaying in northern Spain should work out much cheaper than southern Spain.

Clear cookies

Deleting the cookies on your computer after you're searched for flights could stop you losing out on a good deal. Internet cookies can track how people use a website - and that information can then be used to send targeted adverts to users of websites. Some travel experts believe that a number of airline websites track your cookies if you've searched multiple times for a flight - and then raise the price accordingly. "If you don't clear your cookies or don't log on as a different user, you could get different results [on price] than if you did," said Dunne.

Get price alerts

Price alert tools, such as those offered by Skyscanner, Kayak.ie and Google Flights, will send you an email when the price of a flight ticket goes up or down. So it's worth signing up to these tools to ensure you hear about a good deal the minute it comes on stream.The Indian Express, May 30, 2018

Written by Krishna Kumar

Some nitpicker has pointed out that the girl is Pakistani. The drawing is hardly visible, but this critic has deciphered it as the flag of her country. (Source: Facebook) [see photo here]

The one thing for which you could count on civil servants was finding satisfactory justification. If something had already happened, civil servants knew how to find an argument in its defence. That is what political leaders used to look for in bureaucrats they trusted. A news report from Bihar suggests this quality may be in decline. Perhaps the decline in educational standards is taking its toll on civil servants.

A booklet designed to spread the message of sanitation and cleanliness has run into trouble. Its cover carried a photograph downloaded from UNICEFas website. It shows a small girl in her school uniform a green shirt and white dupatta a drawing something on a piece of paper. Some nitpicker has pointed out that the girl is Pakistani. The drawing is hardly visible, but this critic has deciphered it as the flag of her country. This discovery has rudely yanked the little known Jamui district into national news.

The district bureaucracy is reportedly embarrassed about this episode. The matter has been referred to the Bihar Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, who has ordered an inquiry. Meanwhile, steps are being taken to ensure that the booklet does not reach childrenas hands till the picture of the Pakistani girl is removed from its cover.

It is clear that the nervous administration of Jamui is unable to work out a decent justification. Imagination and some historical awareness might have helped it to notice that the bookletas cover carries a symbol of officially approved policy. Perhaps no one in Jamui, not even an IAS officer, can recall the various resolutions issued at SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) summits over the decades. As a leading member of SAARC, India has initiated some of these resolutions. They articulate the collective aspiration of South Asian countries to cooperate in matters pertaining to the welfare of children through cooperation in health, nutrition, sanitation, and education. Quite a few of these wordy declarations emphasise the importance of SAARC member states pursuing jointly-funded programmes for improvement in education. The South Asian University located in New Delhi is a symbol of this aspiration. A booklet designed to promote the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in a district of Bihar could surely carry forward this spirit by carrying a Pakistani schoolgirlas picture on its cover.

Jamui district is ideally suited to be the site of such a bold initiative. I say this with a precious memory of meeting two great educationists in Jamui. Four decades ago, I had the opportunity to visit Khadigram, a Gandhian institution located in Jamui. There, I met Acharya Ramamurty and Vidya Bahen.

The school at Khadigram was like a dream, with children and teachers jointly managing all aspects of collective living. Acharya Ramamurty was deeply involved with the numerous responsibilities of the Sampurna Kranti (Total Revolution) movement spearheaded by Jayaprakash Narain (JP). Later on, he chaired a major committee appointed by the Government of India for suggesting reforms in education. He was a member of the steering committee which drafted the National Curriculum Framework in 2005. He believed in peace as a crucial resource for learning. Had he been alive today, he would have advised Nitish Kumar, to launch the Jamui booklet himself at a public function.

It is not difficult to guess why Jamuias bureaucrats are feeling nervous. In the ethos surrounding them, the image of a schoolgirl from an enemy nation appearing on an official booklet can only be viewed as an evidence of gross negligence. That she is trying to draw her countryas flag makes matters worse for the Jamui administrators. They can hardly convince their critics by arguing that they chose this image to convey the significance of drawing and art work in the school curriculum.

Perhaps UNICEF can take some pride in this unnecessarily apologetic mood in the Jamui administration. For decades, UNICEF has been trying to use childrenas faces as a medium to convey the message that human welfare and happiness are more sacrosanct than national boundaries. UNICEFas website is a treasure trove of childrenas faces from around the world. The mistake made in Jamui tells us how right UNICEF is. Someone in charge of choosing a visual for the cover of a booklet about cleanliness mistook a Pakistani child for an Indian. As a product of JPas Sampurna Kranti, Nitish Kumar can surely appreciate that mistake as something to cheer about.

The writer was director of NCERT. His latest book is an edited volume, Handbook of Education in IndiaThe Sunday Independent has learnt that Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe is planning to stick with calculating the tax based on property valuation when he announces the outcome of a much-anticipated review. Photo: Steve Humphreys

Property tax is to increase from next year, with Dublin homeowners continuing to pay vastly more than those in rural Ireland despite government commitments to dramatically overhaul the system.

The disclosure comes amid an apparent slowdown in the asking prices for luxury properties in Dublin valued at more than 1m.

New figures compiled by the Sunday Independent show a dramatic fall in asking prices for seven out of 12 properties advertised last week - including one south Dublin home which dropped 225,000 to an asking price of 1,100,000. The current property tax on a home valued at 1m is set at 2,650.

The Sunday Independent has learnt that Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe is planning to stick with calculating the tax based on property valuation when he announces the outcome of a much-anticipated review.

However, senior government sources said he would adjust property tax bands to ensure homeowners are not hit with massive payments once the freeze on the charge comes to an end next year, but some increases are expected.

In the first five months of the year, almost 150 homes in Dublin sold for more than 1m or had a combined value of 250m. Last year, a total of 826 homes, a 25pc increase on the year before, sold for over 1m.

However, a Sunday Independent analysis of a sample of homes priced at over 1m found that over half had dropped in value, some by significant amounts.

A four-bedroom house in Dalkey dropped 550,000 to an asking price of 2,950,000; a renovated Victorian period home in Rathmines fell 400,000 to 2,350,000; and a detached four-bedroom house in Terenure dropped 225,000 to 1,100,000.

Property tax is based on market value bands. The first band covers all properties worth up to 100,000.

Bands then go up in multiples of 50,000. If a property is valued at 1m or lower, the tax is based on the midpoint of the relevant band.

For properties valued at over 1m, the tax is charged on the balance over 1m, with no banding applied. The basic LPT rate was set at 0.18pc for properties valued at under 1m and 0.25pc on the amount of the value over 1m.

Yesterday, Mr Donohoe said any changes to property tax payments would be "moderate, affordable and well understood".

"The review conducted by the Department of Finance will be taking account of the very significant change in property values since the last valuation," he added. However, the charge will continue to be linked to property value as the minister believes it is the fairest way of calculating the tax.

"There is unlikely to be a change in how the valuation takes place," a government source said.

The move could cause Cabinet tensions as a number of senior Fine Gael ministers have called for an overhaul of how property tax is calculated.

Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy previously told this newspaper that he wanted to see a "fundamental change" in how the charge is worked out.

The Dublin minister, who is involved in the Government's review of property tax, said the calculation should now be "linked exclusively to the perceived market value of a home".

Arts Minister Josepha Madigan has also criticised the current system, saying Dublin homeowners are being "disproportionately hit" with property tax charges compared with those living in rural parts of the country.

Figures from the Revenue Commissioners show a third of the entire property tax raised last year was paid to the four Dublin local authorities.

Homeowners in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown pay an average of 524, while the average in Donegal is 160 and in Leitrim only 130.

However, a source close to the Finance Minister said there were an "equal number of problems" with any other proposed valuation method, especially a system based on the physical size of a property.

"If the Government moved to a system based on the size of a property that simply means larger properties outside Dublin, and to a lesser extent in Limerick and Cork, may see a decrease in property tax but every other property outside of those areas would see an increase," the source said.

A homeowner whose house was valued at between 250,001 and 300,000 in 2013 currently pays 495 in property tax. Owing to significant house price increases, the same property in some parts of the country could move up a band and now be worth between 300,001 and 350,000 and be facing a 585 payment next year.

However, under the new system, the charge for the higher band will be reduced to ensure the homeowner will pay a similar rate of tax to the amount they have been paying for the last five years.

Around 60,000 new homeowners, who have been exempt from the charge since 2013, will be included in the property tax when the freeze ends next year.

Speaking in the Seanad last week, Junior Finance Minister Michael D'Arcy said he did not expect property tax rates to "double or treble".

"I do not know, but I have seen very few taxes decrease, they normally increase," he added.

"The appropriate thing to do with taxation is to increase it in a careful incremental way by small amounts initially and that is how we increase the tax base."Opportunity comes to pass, not pause, and right now it's in France. That was the message from Terry McGivern, chief operating officer of Smurfit Kappa in France and keynote speaker at Ambition France.

The recent event in Dublin provided seminars, presentations and panel discussions from Irish companies already succeeding in France.

The audience included a highly targeted group of businesses keen to follow suit.

Ambition France was a first step in creating a peer group of companies selling into the country, and the first in a series of Enterprise Ireland workshops for eurozone markets.

My aim is to build a network of in-country experience and expertise that others can tap into.

France is the sixth-biggest market in the world, with a GDP of 2.5 trillion and a population of 66 million.

Delegates came away with a sense of the opportunity that exists in this growing market, where consumer confidence is buoyed by the "Macron effect".

Part of the reason I'm building this peer group is because we know that having a network of people willing to share successful commercial tactics helps accelerate business success.

With France, however, there is also an additional reason. A key recurring theme at Ambition France was how hugely relationship-based a market it is, and how challenging it can be to develop these relationships. Securing a referral helps enormously, which is why I'm keen to bring first-time entrants together with seasoned campaigners.

Recruitment can be a challenge. Niall Fay of Grant Engineering told of his company's recent success securing experienced French staff to help open up the market. It was a significant advantage in a country in which having team members with established relationships is so important.

To overcome these challenges, Irish businesses need to make their value proposition clear and really sell the company to prospective employees. It's worth doing, when local staff with a strong network of contacts can be a huge advantage in accessing buyers.

We at Enterprise Ireland help too - opening doors, fostering links, and ensuring French buyers are aware that Ireland is a dynamic country with which to do business.

We prepare the ground so that the companies we support are not met by outdated, but sometimes lingering, perceptions that Ireland is primarily agricultural.

The best way to assess the market is to get out there, advised Shane Lyons of Ei Electronics: "Meet the customer, find out how they buy, and what they are interested in. Then develop a solution that suits them. Use Enterprise Ireland, use their contacts, get to exhibitions, and get a sense of where the market is going."

It is more important than ever to do this. Brexit presents a huge opportunity for Irish companies to position themselves as alternative English-speaking suppliers.

To capitalise on this opportunity, however, you must be fully au fait with French business culture - or rather cultures. It is a country of huge regional variations, delegates at Ambition France heard, so acquaint yourself with local nuances. Invest in linguistic skills. Andrew Fleury, CEO of Transpoco, told how his staff takes French lessons via Skype. "It makes it easier to do business and clients are very appreciative of it," he said.

That's for sure. I have seen many deals scuppered by ignorance of basic business etiquette.

For example, Irish people almost by default go into a meeting shaking hands and chatting about the weather and their trip over. But if you are dealing with a large French company, that's a faux pas.

Meetings here are much more formal. Focus on the business, plan your presentation to the Nth degree and demonstrate - with evidence - why you are the best supplier with the best product. Keep chat for later.

It's the kind of thing a peer would tell you and you'll be glad they did, because right now, in France, opportunity is here for the taking.

Sinead Lonergan is country manager France for Enterprise Ireland, based in ParisSet up in 2008, Audrey Gaffney Associates provides interior architectural design solutions, mostly for the hospitality sector.

Located in Scurlockstown Business Park, Trim, Co Meath, owner Audrey Gaffney employs nine staff and has a turnover of 750,000. The projects she has completed include a variety of well-known hotels, bars, restaurants and nightclubs such as The Castleknock Hotel, Dublin's Skylon Hotel, Silverbirch Hotel in Omagh, the Oak Room Restaurant in Cavan, The Devon Inn in Limerick, and Stix & Stones restaurant in Belfast.

In addition, she also specialises in conservation work and has carried out works in some of the country's most historic hospitality venues including the Markree Castle, Sligo, Cabra Castle, Kingscourt, Bellingham Castle, Castlebellingham, Belleek Castle, Ballina and Customs House Restaurant & Wine Bar in Derry City Centre. She has even completed work on hotels in Spain, Scotland and England for FBD Hotels and Hetherley Capital Partners.

"Our vision is to capture the unique essence of each building as well as the client's own brand. As a result, all our concepts and finishes are bespoke to each property," says Audrey.

"A big part of what we do is spatial planning and designing the internal structure of each building to maximise the experience of customers using the facility as well as ensuring the operational flow works for staff and management, essential to the efficient running of the business. And we've also completed a number of retail projects as well as high end office fit-outs for large tech companies," she adds.

Audrey and her team can look after everything from the fit-out of carpets and flooring to fabrics and soft furnishings as well as managing all aspects of design from audio visual and lighting to furniture and landscapes. On the project management side, they provide services such as tender and cost analysis, site supervision and management. They'll even provide 3D visual presentations before carrying out the work and professional photography once a job is complete.

"For us, it's all about driving revenue for our clients through creating a unique customer experience that people want to return to time and time again," she adds.

Audrey grew up in the small community of Drumkilly in Co Cavan. As a child she developed a keen interest in arts and crafts and by her teens was even making her own clothes. While she initially wanted to study fashion design after school, her life took a more circuitous route.

"While I always wanted to get into fashion, I found myself directed by teachers to choose a more traditional industry so that's how I ended up studying computer programming," she admits.

However after a stint in the sector, she realised that it wasn't for her. "I hated being stuck in a tiny cubicle all day," says Audrey. "That's when I decided to focus more on the things I actually enjoyed and enrolled on an eight-week part-time course in interior design. I absolutely loved it," she adds.

Read More

She then got a job as a retail manger with Hickey Fabrics when they opened their Home Focus store in Blanchardstown. While she enjoyed the work she realised that she was still not fulfilled.

"I knew that to get a job in design, I would have to return to college and I felt that at 24 I was too old to start over," explains Audrey.

However, the motivation she needed came from an unexpected source. "When my younger cousin was diagnosed with cancer, she gave me a piece of advice that changed my life. She told me that I could go on living my life as it was - unfulfilled - or I could do something about it."

It was the wake-up call she needed. She went to the credit union, took out a loan and went back to college part-time to study for her degree in Interior Architecture in Griffith College while continuing to work full-time. That's when things changed for her.

Once she had obtained her diploma, she managed to convince architecture firm Project Architects to hire her to work as an interior designer on Mahon Point Shopping Centre in Cork while she continued to complete her degree part-time.

In 2008, then qualified and with experience under her belt, she struck out on her own and set up Audrey Gaffney Associates.

"We started the business right at the beginning of the recession so we had to work hard to secure the jobs in the first place and then work even harder to deliver the right result within strict budgets," she says. "Today, we are approaching 10 years of being in business and I now have an amazing design team around me and it their combined effort and expertise that enables us to both grow and retain our loyal client base."

She has had her fair share of challenges, such as in 2012 when three large projects she was working on fell through. Her response was to share the problem with her senior team, who rowed in behind her and offered to work a five-day week for a three-day salary. While a difficult setback at the time, Audrey adjusted the company's strategy to the higher end of the design market, rebranded the company and effectively relaunched.

Her strategy proved correct and once the market began to improve, she found herself repositioned and primed for growth.

More recently, the struggle has been to find skilled staff with the right experience. So Audrey launched her own internship programme which has now become a valuable source of attracting and retaining quality staff.

"Our strategy for future growth is to continue to grow our high-end hospitality design within the Irish and European markets and to include spa resort design as an integral part of our portfolio.

"I see my role now as continuing to raise our profile and make clients more aware of the benefits of hiring an interior architectural practice for their project. In short, I want ours to be one of Ireland's leading interior architectural practices."

Having just won the All-Star Female Led Business of the Year and All-Star Interior Design Team of the Year at this years All Star Awards, Audrey looks well on her way to achieving her goal.

audrey.ieWith business travel, your main concerns as an employee or company revolve around getting there, staying there and getting around. But failing to understand local red tape could land you as an individual with a barring order from a country or your company with a hefty tax bill.

Keeping you in the good books of your destination country is a growing area for new travel businesses, among them Irish tech startup Relodata founded by Liam Brennan.

Donald Trump and Brexit have implications for businesses working abroad, said Brennan, a veteran of the travel technology sector, who set up Relodata two years ago, and is now looking to expand his company, which focuses primarily on the massive business travel markets - for short-stint workers and those on long-term assignments - in the US and UK.

His software, GT Global Tracker, specialises in duty of care, and he foresaw a gap in the market for it, due to countries "taxing corporates where they create the value". And it's not just an issue for global multinationals, he told the Sunday Independent from California, with corporate travellers often unaware that they can be liable for tax abroad if away for sustained periods.

"The software tracks the number of days a worker is spending in each location. When they hit a certain threshold for tax we send an alert to the traveller and the employer," said Brennan.

Brexit will be a huge factor, one that hasn't been widely publicised, he said. "From an Irish company point of view the biggest impact is the Monday to Thursday commuters. There's been very much a blind eye thrown to that over the past 20 or 30 years. In the new Brexit environment Ireland will likely still have to hit the HMRC (UK taxman) rules for days spent in the country for double taxation agreements," he warned. "In the past if you're working for, say, a food company and your patch was the UK no one really worried about how many days you spent in the UK."

Now the software highlights when a worker is about to hit a tax threshold - and the employer will then either "file the right forms" or send over a different employee. The US can pose problems too, he revealed, with firms looking at federal taxes only, and "a lot of Irish companies getting caught with state tax bills in the likes of New York, Connecticut and California".

The software is used by the likes of accounting group BDO in its offering as well as by workforce mobility giants Weichert, Altair and Santa Fe when deploying clients' staff around the globe.

Moving around isn't as easy as it was, in an era of tightening borders and heightened security under a new Washington administration. Brennan believes the old mindset was to send an employee away on a US tourist visa, even for a work trip.

"In the past you abused the Esta programme - you can't do that any more," he insisted. "Now it's a H1b or a B1 visa and we help companies to understand when people push the limits of that visa. If a trip overruns, alerts will be issued when necessary."

Brennan said President Trump's 'hire American, buy American' executive order didn't apply necessarily to immigration, but "gave a new impetus to border guards to go beyond page two of the rule book that they only ever got to - now it's pages 10, 12, 13. They're asking far more questions."

He said this is critical for frequent travellers at immigration points: "They're looking back, saying 'you've spent 30 of the last 60 days in the United States - we don't think you're a business traveller, we thing you're working here."

The individual worker should be aware of the huge cost of being caught travelling under the wrong visa. "What people don't realise is every passport is personal. Canada is a good example; fall foul of the rules and they will exclude you from that country for a period of time."

Given his involvement with UK companies in the relocation and travel space, he said talk of a massive Brexodus to Ireland "is an absolute myth in our experience", but there are upsides. "We've seen a marked increase in business travel where companies are saying to executives, 'We're considering Frankfurt, Luxembourg, Dublin: would you be prepared to commute for three months, six months, nine months until it [Brexit] stabilises'. So we've seen that increase... but no one is going to shell out for a 10,000-person building until they really know the impact of Brexit."

A keen observer in the market, he believes Ireland is missing a trick. "The interim impact is an increase in business travel rather than wholesale relocation, so if Dublin were to market themselves properly they'd market themselves as a business travel hub rather than a relocation hub as we're pretty much two hours from anywhere in Europe," he added.

Business has taken off for the GT Global Tracker. Brennan said it recently closed a funding round for 1.4m and expects to create 10 new jobs in Dublin this year. Backed by Fingal LEO, the company is due to move to the Enterprise Ireland HPSU.Swedish furniture giant IKEA and American music mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs' clothing were among companies sourcing from Bangladesh that had failed to sign a new accord for the safety of millions of factory workers as it took effect on Friday.

The new pact is a three-year extension of the Bangladesh Accord, a legally-binding agreement between global brands and trade unions drawn up after the Rana Plaza collapse, one of the worst industrial accidents in modern history.

It established a fire and safety programme for the country's $28bn (24bn) a year textile industry, which employs about four million people.

So far 175 of the 220 companies in the original accord have signed, but high-profile brands including Abercrombie & Fitch, Combs' Sean John apparel and Britain's Edinburgh Woollen Mill have not, the Clean Clothes Campaign said.

"(They) are doing themselves and their customers a disservice and are knowingly putting the lives of the workers producing for them at risk," said Christie Miedema, of the campaign, which lobbies to improve workers' conditions.

More than 1,100 people were killed when the Rana Plaza factory complex collapsed in 2013.

Since then Western brands that manufacture in Bangladesh have been under pressure to do more to ensure worker safety.

Sean John did not respond to requests for comment and the Edinburgh Woollen Mill was not reachable.

Abercrombie said it was reviewing the 2018 accord, while IKEA said it had chosen to focus on its own safety audit programme IWAY rather than signing up.

Unlike the original accord, which expired on Thursday, the new one is open to non-garment companies like IKEA that produce home fabrics and textiles.

Campaigners have urged them to sign up, arguing that other schemes such as IWAY lack transparency because they do not make inspection findings and reports public.

"We operate in a highly competitive market, and for competitive reasons we don't hand out a list of our suppliers in Bangladesh or any other country," IKEA said.

Bangladesh, which ranks behind only China as a supplier of clothes to Western countries, relies on the garment industry for more than 80pc of its exports.

ReutersFiat Chrysler Automobiles chief executive Sergio Marchionne isn't ready to scrap the little Italian cars from US showrooms, but he's not counting on them starting to sell well either.

Discussing ways to do real volume with the Fiat brand in North America "will be a waste of time," Marchionne said near Turin, Italy, during an hours-long briefing about the company's five-year plan on Friday.

The comment coincided with Fiat Chrysler reporting another rough month for the diminutive 500 subcompact and its stablemates in the US.

The Fiat brand's US sales plummeted 46pc in May and have fallen short of 1,500 cars every month this year except March. By comparison, dealers sold about 1,600 rugged Jeep Wrangler SUVs every two days last month.

"I don't see a light at the end of the tunnel for Fiat," said David Kelleher, a Philadelphia-area dealer who sells Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler vehicles. It may be prudent for Fiat Chrysler to "move on" from trying to sell the brand in the US market, he said.

Marchionne ended Fiat's 27-year hiatus in the US with the introduction of the 500 in 2011, a more fuel-efficient version of the iconic Italian model that he hoped could capture a niche of city dwellers looking for stylish, affordable cars that fit into tight parking spaces. That bet never panned out. The brand reached an annual peak of a little more than 46,000 sold in 2014. The Ram line of trucks and vans did more volume just last month.

"When you look at this climate that's been so beneficial to Jeep and Ram, it's really been very inhospitable for Fiat and everything they're bringing to the table," said Jeremy Acevedo, an analyst with car-shopping researcher Edmunds.

Under the company's new five-year plan, Fiat and Chrysler won't aspire to be global brands, and they will account for just 20pc of profits by 2022. Asked if the company should change its name to reflect the brand hierarchy, Marchionne said: "It is an established name now. Why don't they ask Volkswagen to change its name after the diesel issue?"

BloombergNew life: Melatu at Trinity College, where she is studying for a PhD. Photo: Damien Eagers

'Direct provision," writes Melatu Uche Okorie in the foreword to her story collection, This Hostel Life, "is like being in an abusive relationship".

The Nigerian-born author arrived in Ireland 12 years ago seeking asylum with her infant daughter. She spent eight-and-a-half years in direct provision, living on 28.70 per week, her days policed by security men.

Direct provision was established in 2000 to provide the survival needs for people seeking international protection. It was promised that asylum seekers would stay no longer than six months before applications were processed.

But people remain in accommodation centres - of which there are 34 around the country - for an average of 23 months, some for years. Living with strangers, without permission from the State to work, losing basic life skills as meals are doled out in a canteen.

Okorie is the first Irish author to emerge from that purgatorial setting and publish a book. This Hostel Life is a tiny little book of three stories published with Skein press, a new outfit whose mission it is to find minority ethnic voices.

I am excited to meet this newcomer to Ireland's all-white literary scene. Also, cautious. The author describes herself in her foreword as "not a natural sharer".

"I'm really thankful to God that I've found, in writing, a medium through which I can talk about myself," she writes.

The hostels in her book are not named, for obvious reasons. So many questions are off-limits. Sitting in a cafe near Trinity College, Okorie is softly-spoken - just audible under the din of whizzing coffee beans. She is a PhD candidate at the college, having received an MA here in Creative Writing. She arrived from Nigeria with no books in her bags. This journey from migrant status to the highest rung in education is remarkable to me. What first spurred her to write?

"There was just nothing to do with the time, where I was. I had these stories running around my head."

I ask Okorie to describe day-to-day life in direct provision.

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"One thing that might resonate with everybody is just the emptiness of the days. You have long days of not doing much.

"Everything is repetitive, monotonous. A long day of nothing. Little things take on so much of your emotions and your energy."

Included in This Hostel Life is an article by UCD law professor Liam Thornton. He writes that "over 5,000 men, women and children remain in direct provision centres in Ireland today. Convicted of no crime, the system of enforced dependency and institutionalisation reminds me of the crueller and less understanding Ireland of the borstal, the Magdalene laundry, the mother and baby home, the mental institution".

Direct provision is "degrading" and should be abolished, writes this expert in human rights law.

Although Okorie came here 12 years ago, she feels she has lived here only four years. "Because for the first eight-and-a-half years, I wasn't part of anything, I wasn't part of the society, I wasn't acknowledged for anything. How can you be, if you're not contributing anything?"

Raised in a small town in Nigeria, Melatu had a degree in English when she came to Ireland in 2006. Until very recently, people living in direct provision were not entitled to work - now the ban has been lifted, subject to restrictions. Did the people Okorie lived with want to work?

"Everybody wanted to work. 100pc."

Those first years living in a hostel, Okorie wrote by night with her daughter sleeping next to her. She borrowed books and read widely from contemporary fiction. Her favourite authors are Anne Tyler, Margaret Atwood, Jennifer Johnston and Roddy Doyle.

In 2008, her story 'Gathering Thoughts', about female circumcision, won the Metro Eireann writing award. "It was a horrible story, thinking about it now," she laughs. "I was just pouring out stuff on paper. It wasn't about me but"

You will have to look to Melatu's fiction to find out how she ended up in Ireland. She has a good reason for drawing a line between past and present. "Going into these topics affects my daughter, because her life is entangled with mine. But if you read my stories you find out."

Asked if she experienced harm or ill-treatment, she replies: "It was a lot of these things. And I have to be cautious about putting things out there because I have another life that I have to protect. There are some things you wish you could move away from. I think I'm strong enough to confront things now. But when the confrontation is taking place, I don't know what's going to happen."

In not wanting to talk a lot, she did talk a little, about her own mother, who raised Okorie with "quite a few" siblings. "My mother was a great storyteller, which I didn't appreciate at the time. She was someone who was full of stories. I suppose I realise I'm like that now."

One of the stories in the collection, 'The Egg Broke', is based on local lore she heard from her mother. It describes the practice of killing newborn twins, abolished in the 1900s.

Okorie got "leave to remain" in Ireland in 2014 and once she left direct provision, her family moved around, from Lucan to the outskirts of Sligo to north Dublin, where they have settled. What was it like after eight-and-a-half years of queuing for meals to gain independence?

"At first it was exciting. To go into a shop and make choices. It made me feel like this is normal life. The next feeling I started having was of fear. How am I going to cope with life away from here?

"It's a whole new ball game," she says. "When you live in seclusion for eight or 10 years, it's harder to get into the mix of things.

"You are afraid of meeting new people, you don't know how they are going to accept you. You feel like a failure. Your confidence is extremely low. Everything is a challenge to you, and there is always that temptation to run back to safety, to go back and be that person that will just sit down and not have to engage with the world."

She feels there should be more follow-up when a person leaves the system. "Nobody checks to see how are you getting on."

Alongside her studies at Trinity, she is slowly working on a novel while volunteering at the creative writing centre Fighting Words every week. She encounters what she calls "casual racism" all the time.

"It's everywhere. It's in everything. It's an attitude. It's just breaking that glass ceiling in Ireland. I suppose, as a migrant, I feel there is not enough opportunity to do certain things."

Though she saw close friends deported, direct provision gave her a community that keeps her in Dublin today. Women from Nigeria, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone, Kurdistan, the Lebanon. "They are family now. We've shared so much. Cried together, laughed together.

"At the time, they weren't happy times," she emphasises. "In retrospect, they become happy times."

This is what telling stories is about. Will she ever write her own story down, the way it happened?

"I did attempt to do a memoir. But I'm not as bold as, what's her name? Nuala O'Faolain. I read Are you Somebody? Oh my god, it blew me away. It takes a special kind of woman to do something like that.

"After I read her, I asked, can I be that brutally honest about myself? The answer is kind of no." She gives a flavoursome laugh. "Because if I do a memoir, I wouldn't want it to be kind of sweet and nice, you know?"

Melatu Uche Okorie will read from This Hostel Life at the West Cork Literary Festival on Friday, July 20 in Bantry Bookshop www.westcorkliteraryfestival.ieWhile Ireland boasts an impressive year-round schedule of arts, music, and miscellaneous festivals and community events, many are now facing an uncertain future.

Executive Director of the Association of Irish Festivals and Events (AOIFE), Colm Crotty has warned that insurance hikes, other increasing costs, and changes on our high streets from independent local retailers to international chains are threatening the survival of smaller festivals and events across the country.

At least 12 of the associations members have had to close down this year due to these issues and Mr Crotty suspects there may well be more who have disappeared under the radar.

The rising cost of insurance is, he says, one of the biggest factors in their demise.

Insurance is a significant issue for every event and every festival organiser whether theyre the St Patricks Day Festival or Cape Clear Story Telling festival in Cork, he tells Independent.ie.

He cites rising premiums and excesses, and describes the limitations and exclusions and restrictions" on these policies as becoming quite onerous, with some activities like fire performance driving up premiums by a multiple of a thousand or not being insurable at all.

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He believes that the public will soon no longer be able to enjoy events which feature activities from fireworks to childrens participation to events by the waterside because of the perceived risk to participants and the resulting impact on insurance premiums.

Very quickly, in a few more seasons, well have festivals with no fireworks, no pyrotechnics, no childrens engagement in terms of circus skills, or participation, because theres a risk of a child getting a nick or a twist. There will be no raft races, there will be no events taking place on shores, or lakeside or river locations or on coastal piers. The insurance companies just wont cover the activity.

When events do close down, Colm says insurance is cited as one of the top three reasons.

A large claim on an events insurance can kill the event. Colm argues that in most cases insurance companies will settle claims on the steps of the courthouse rather than fight the claim in court.

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You find three years down the road that the insurance company has no intention of defending the claim, he says. Theyve racked your premium up by a multiple of maybe 40 per cent for the three years its been trundling through the system and then decide maybe a week or ten days before the court case is due to be heard to settle for a very close multiple of what youve just paid for in increased premiums.

He adds, Theres no way they want to go into a courtroom to defend the claim for any festival organiser or festival activity because once you go in past the courtroom door its Russian roulette. Youve some control of the chequebook on the steps. Youve no control of a chequebook once you go in front of the judge. And thats the judicial system.

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The impact on smaller events in particular can be devastating.

Our members are getting very frustrated. The sector is getting very annoyed and frustrated. People are going to walk away, says Colm.

The societal price, or the community price, is that those of us who want to have torchlight processions, Halloween lantern processions, general gatherings of civic spirit of celebration or commemoration, are finding this is becoming a huge financial burden to navigate around.

Another aspect of insurance that is causing consternation for organisers is the increasing cost of public indemnities.

Typically for a parade or a procession a local authority will be obliged to ask for an indemnity which means your insurance company will indemnify them for claims arising out of the event," explains Colm.

"For the last 10 to fifteen years they would have been manageable at 1.3m, 3.4m or 4.2m. Some local authorities now are looking for indemnities of 6.3, 8.2, 10.5m and every million you go up is another 1000 on a premium."

Laura Murray is chairman of the Cootehill Arts Festival, which initially ran from 1988 to 2002 before taking a hiatus and returning in 2016. Laura came on board last year and the festival was a resounding success, drawing 4,000 people to the small Cavan town. This year, however, she has seen their insurance premium increase by 20 per cent.

Its a big hike, she tells Independent.ie. Weve had no real reason for it  it just seems to be across the board. You see insurance hikes everywhere, in everything, which is unfortunate.

If they could at least come back to us and give us a breakdown on why the costs are soaring to help us to understand that would be something. At the end of the day it probably needs to go down the route of a regulatory process the way theyre trying to do with all other forms of insurance.

Higher insurance premiums mean a greater proportion of funding going towards insurance and less money to spend on programming and without a decent programme, the festival will not draw the audience it needs to survive.

Raising the funds for events like the Cootehill Arts Festival is often a long and gruelling process for people working on a voluntary basis. It involves applying for small grants from local authorities, the Arts Council and/or Failte Ireland, chasing sponsorship from local businesses, even down to holding raffles.

Last year planning for Cootehill kicked off later in the year, so raising the funding was tough. The festivals success, says Laura, was down to very generous local sponsors and a very hard-working committee. They also received support from the local arts office in Cavan.

At the end of the day in some respects youve to beg, borrow, and appeal to the good nature of participating artists and performers, and getting sponsorship in whatever shape or form you can, but small businesses have their own battles these days, she says.

The changing face of the local high streets of provincial towns and villages, and the disappearance of many of these independent local retailers, is also having an impact.

Where smaller local festivals could traditionally approach a local family business for sponsorship on the understanding that its good for the businesss marketing and good for trade relations with the community, there are fewer such businesses surviving on our high streets today. And some of those who are surviving are struggling.

Now you go down the main street in Kilkenny or Birr or any provincial town and youre met with the pelmets on the doors of a variety of chains and the manager is a chain manager, says Colm, adding that most of those chains do not provide sponsorship in the way local family businesses have done in the past.

Its causing huge turbulence in how you fund events and festivals, says Colm.

There will be less and less free stuff  thats the reality, he continues. Festivals are going to have to up the charges. I would say 65 per cent of us would have at least 50 per cent of the programme free, which is quite high, but that will change.

AOIFE is one of 20 civic and business organisations across Ireland which have formed the Alliance for Insurance Reform, representing 35,000 members, which aims to highlight the negative impact of persistently high premiums and calling for real action to tackle the issue.

They aim to get transparency on how premiums are calculated and claims are settled, prevention of exaggerated and misleading claims being pursued and settled, and consistency in the calculation of awards at realistic and sustainable levels.

However, while the Alliance has engaged with the Insurance Industry of Ireland, Colm says progress is glacial.

Given the difficulties facing organisers, its a wonder anyone undertakes to organise a small festival or event on a voluntary basis, but Colm says the fact that many are ploughing ahead this year is simply down to peoples pigheadedness and passion.

Theyre passionate about making sure the world knows theres a community of people keen about traditional music, keen about celebrating some local storyteller, or keen about making sure that 60,000 holidaymakers come in for two weeks in July to enjoy the Charlie Chaplin Festival in Waterford or whatever.

Its vitally important for some of these small provincial village sand towns and coastal communities and tourist communities who rely on big numbers coming in and the festival is a core element.

Laura believes its more than worth the effort, When you put on a successful festival it does have a knock on effect on the local community. There are more numbers in the town and more money spent.

She adds, Were all volunteers - everyone gives up their spare time to put it together. Its a lot of hard work but when its a success like last year and you see the fruits of your labour at the end of it and the smiles on peoples faces and the positive feedback it makes it all worthwhile."

For more info on the Cootehill Arts Festival (August 21-26) check out Facebook.com/cootehillartsfest/The album artwork, features mountains in the background and the words I hate being bi-polar, its awesome in neon green (PA/yenerator.com)

Kanye West released his eighth studio album ye this week, and a website has already been set up to help fans turn its cover into a meme.

The rapper shot the image in Wyoming en route to his album listening party, according to wife Kim Kardashian West.

Kanye shot the album cover on his iPhone on the way to the album listening party   Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) June 1, 2018

But the artwork, featuring mountains in the background and the words I hate being bi-polar, its awesome in neon green, inspired some to get creative with the backdrop.

Thanks to yenerator.com, developed by artist Yung Jake and developer Tim Bauman, anyone with an internet connection can create alternative versions.

The site has even been endorsed by West himself, who tweeted a link to it.

Here are some of the weird and wonderful results posted on Twitter.

I hate cabbage, its not awesome, wrote @sairajbhor.

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Kobe is better than LeBron, according to @jdb_chillin.

The old Kanye resurfaced in @JewjewBeens version, which read: George Bush doesnt care about black people.

The quote is in reference to Wests speech at a 2005 Hurricane Katrina benefit concert, which went viral.

GDPR woes remain alive and well for @VILLAin4417, who wrote: Weve updated our privacy policy.

User @lliu97d united the worlds of Drakes 2015 album and Kanyes latest release, writing: If youre reading this its too late.

No such collection would be complete without a Mr Brightside edition, with @emilyiliwys writing: Coming out of my cage and Ive been doing just fine.Speaking ahead of the start of the programme's fourth series Turner, 34, revealed that as an actor he relishes depicting the less flattering aspects of Captain Ross Poldark's character. Photo: Mammoth Screen/BBC/PA Wire

Channel 4 news presenter Cathy Newman has added her voice to a debate about whether admiring a man for his appearance is a double standard.

A newly released photograph of Aidan Turner going shirtless for the new series of Poldark appeared on the front pages of several national newspapers as promotion ramped up for the show, and it was a widely discussed topic on social media.

A discussion was sparked as many questioned if it is fair to sensationalise a male body if women find it offensive when the tables are turned.

Newman tweeted a picture of a pile of newspapers featuring Turner's bare torso, and wrote: "If we women object to being ogled, how is this any different? Objectification too? #Poldark."

Feminist activist and journalist Caroline Criado Perez responded: "It's not a double standard because no one is saying men can't find women attractive.

"We're just saying allow us to be more than our tits and ass. This is a really unhelpful and misleading framing."

Newman replied: "But is Aidan Turner being allowed to be more than his bare-chested romping? I'm asking the question - I'm not sure what I think... yet..."

Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan waded into the discussion with a seemingly sarcastic retort.

He tweeted: "'I'm absolutely outraged, disgusted & offended by this sexual objectification of Poldark' - said no man ever."

The topic was also discussed on ITV's Loose Women.

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Panellist Kaye Adams said: "We've always appreciated the human form, you go back to the ancient Greeks and the Romans, since civilisation began we have always appreciated the human form.

"I think what we should worry about is an abuse of power, and exploitation.

"I look at Aidan Turner and think he's a very beautiful man. I don't want to abuse him in any way, I don't want to exploit him in any way, I don't think he's reduced to that particular thing, I think there are a lot of facets to his character, and I think it's really important we don't mix them up."

Her co-host Andrea McLean said: "Do you think the reason it's almost seen as all right for women to say 'isn't he lovely?' is because we're more used to it being the other way around, and women being viewed purely because of looks and being objectified?"

Panellist Ayda Field said: "I don't know if it's a double standard, if it's wrong or right, but it felt like at least the scale is tipping a little bit more in a balanced direction."

Nadia Sawalha added that people "love to look at beautiful things" and "we mustn't be scared of that".

The debate comes days after journalist and broadcaster Mariella Frostrup commented on the "double standard" of women being allowed to comment on a man's body when a man would not be allowed to do the same without reproach.

She admitted the opening scene of the new series - in which Turner appears shirtless - is the main cause for her excitement at the programme's return.

"I know I'm lucky to have the freedom to express myself in such a way," she wrote in Radio Times magazine.

"As a woman, I can own a comment like that without too much fear of censure."

She added that "we live in confusing times" and she is "the first to admit to double standards".

Poldark returns to BBC One on Sunday June 10 at 9pm.Christie's is embroiled in a dispute over an Impressionist painting that it sold in good faith, but was looted by the Nazis and was even part of Hermann Goring's private collection.

The work's rightful owners and the dealer who bought the painting from Christie's have accused the auction house of failing properly to investigate its dark past, and then refusing to rescind the sale once its murky provenance became clear.

This week, the owner of Premier jour de printemps a Moret (First day of spring in Moret), painted by Alfred Sisley in 1889, is launching legal proceedings against the auction house.

"With Christie's, it's war," said Alain Dreyfus, a French dealer with a gallery in Basel, Switzerland. "They did not do enough research. If you buy a car in a garage and the police come and tell you that it's stolen you hand it back to the garage and get your money back. That's normal," he said.

He has said he will return the work to its rightful owners, but he wants Christie's to reimburse him. Last month, he sent a bill for 700,000 (612,000) to Christie's Zurich branch, demanding to be repaid the value of the work plus 8pc interest.

Furious, he says, at receiving no response, he is taking up the "unpaid invoice" with Basel's prosecution office, has hired a PR manager to launch a campaign accusing Christie's of "selling stolen goods", and is suing the auctioneers in New York.

The work's rightful owners are heirs of French collector Alfred Lindon (born Abner Lindenbaum). When the Germans invaded Paris, he fled after placing the works in a Chase Bank safe, which the Nazis forced open in 1940. Goring, Adolf Hitler's right-hand man, requisitioned the entire collection of "the Jew Lindenbaum", including the Sisley. He later exchanged the Impressionist painting, along with 17 other works, for a Titian with a corrupt dealer.

After the war, Mr Lindon recovered most of the looted works, but not the Sisley. Yet none of this was common knowledge when Christie's New York sold Mr Dreyfus the work in 2008 for $357,000, along with a Renoir and Boudin. It was only in 2016 that Canada-based looted art experts Mondex contacted Lindon's heirs to inform them that they had positively identified the Sisley as coming from the family collection. They had found the painting in an inventory of artworks confiscated from Jewish people by Hitler's 'Special Task Force', and matched it to a photo from the Swiss gallery.

Lindon's grandson, Denis, filed a legal complaint to recover the work last August, telling a Paris court: "It is not serious to claim Christie's, which possesses a service specialised in research into looted art, could have ignored the origin of such a painting."

In a statement, Christie's said: "All the known provenances and accessible history about the painting at the date of its sale a decade ago were extensively researched and referenced in Christie's catalogue."

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At the time of sale, it argued, there was "no active claim on the work and no discoverable information that would directly connect this specific work with the claimant family".

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021]Gardai believe they prevented an attempted gangland assassination in Dublin yesterday after arresting two men and seizing a loaded gun. (stock photo)

Gardai believe they prevented an attempted gangland assassination in Dublin yesterday after arresting two men and seizing a loaded gun.

The men, one aged in his late 20s and the other in his early 30s, were travelling in the north inner city area when they were stopped by gardai who had been watching them.

Both men are said to be known to gardai as members of warring factions involved in the Hutch-Kinahan feud.

The intended target remains unclear but gardai said they felt they had to act quickly because a violent attack was imminent.

The men were stopped in the East Wall area at approximately 4.30pm yesterday.

One of them was carrying a loaded revolver and ammunition.

One of the men was travelling in a car while the other was making his way through the area on a motorbike.

Officers from the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau had been watching the men before stopping them as part of an intelligence-led operation by detectives based in the north inner city.

They were assisted by members of the Special Crime Task Force and Crime and Security specialist units.

A garda spokesperson last night confirmed the operation was part of a series targeting organised crime and gangland hits in Dublin's north inner city.

A series of follow up searches took place in the capital last night.

It is believed the men were on there way to a well-known Hutch location in the city.

They were arrested and detained under section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act.

Both men were brought to different stations in the north inner city area and remained in custody last night for questioning.

A garda spokesman last night said investigations remain ongoing but a source said officers were confident it was a failed assassination attempt on a member of a rival gang.

"It looks like (an assassination attempt). They were travelling when gardai stopped them and one of them was carrying a loaded gun," the source said.

It was just the latest incident in a long line of botched murder attempts between the two warring factions.

On March 15 gardai foiled a suspected Kinahan assassination plan on a member of the Hutch family when officers swooped moments before it was due to be carried out.

On that occasion two men were arrested in Enniscorthy as part of an intelligence-led operation supported by members of the elite Armed Response Unit.

A member of the Hutch family was the suspected intended target and gardai seized three cars, two firearms and a quantity of ammunition.

That raid came less than a week after four more arrests when gardai seized a sub-machine gun, a semi-automatic pistol and a revolver after intercepting a van on Gardiner street in Dublin's city centre.Thousands of breast cancer patients may be safely spared gruelling chemotherapy following a landmark study.

The TAILORx trial found that chemotherapy can be avoided for 70 per cent of women with the most common type of early stage breast cancer (HR-positive, HER2-negative, node-negative breast cancer).

10,273 women with early-stage breast cancer from Ireland, the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Peru took part in the trial.

690 women from Ireland participated, led by Professor Maccon Keane, Consultant Medical Oncologist, University Hospital Galway, as the Chief Investigator.

Charity Breast Cancer Care said it was a "life-changing breakthrough".

The Chief Investigator for Ireland, Professor Keane, said: The TAILORx trial result is a major advance in precision medicine for women with hormone receptor positive node negative breast cancer.

It confirms that using the 21-gene expression test on tumours we can identify which women will benefit from endocrine (hormone) therapy only, thus eliminating the need for them to have chemotherapy.

It also helps identify those women with this disease who really do benefit from the chemotherapy they receive.

Having the trial in Ireland has enabled more personalised treatment recommendations for women with this stage and type of breast cancer as we have had access to the test through the HSE since 2011.

Irish women contributed significantly to this trial and can be rightly proud of their input into improving care for future women who present with breast cancer.

Commenting on the results, Professor Bryan Hennessy, Clinical Lead, Cancer Trials Ireland, said this could be critical for how breast cancer patients are treated.

This is a globally important breast cancer trial. These results will inform clinical decision-making and in future many women with certain types of early-stage breast cancer can avoid chemotherapy, without impacting on the success of their treatment.

We are delighted that with the support of these patients, our research teams, under the umbrella of Cancer Trials Ireland, were able to play a leading role in this research, he said.

The TAILORx trial used the Oncotype DX test, which allows doctors to predict the likelihood of the breast cancer returning.

A sample of the tumour is tested after surgery for 21 genetic markers, which indicate if it could grow and spread.

Patients with a recurrence score of up to 10 out of 100 have previously been shown not to benefit from chemotherapy, and instead need only hormone treatment.

Those who score 26 or higher on the scale do benefit and currently receive chemotherapy.

However, there was unclear evidence on whether those who fall in between - the vast majority of patients - needed chemotherapy.

The TAILORx study, led by the Montefiore Medical Centre in New York, found women older than 50 with this form of breast cancer and a score of up to 25 did not need chemotherapy.

Under 50s with a score of up to 15 can also be spared the treatment and only receive hormone therapy drugs after surgery, according to the research.

Nine-year survival rates were 93.9pc without chemotherapy and 93.8pc with chemotherapy, the study found.Fears of losing memory and suffering dementia are very real for some people and they should talk about those fears, said a consultant neurologist.

"I want to take away some of the fear around memory loss because we tend to think when we lose our memory we lose ourselves," said Dr Jules Montague.

She will speak about the sense of identity among people who lose their memories in an address at a Memory Clinic Conference in Dublin on Friday. "It's my job to talk about identity and who we are when we lose our memories. I'm seeking to raise awareness so we can have conversations about dementia that we tend to be quite scared of having," she said.

The conference poses the question: 'Can dementia be prevented?'

Dr Montague, a native of Portmarnock, Co Dublin, who works as a consultant neurologist and writer in London, will return to her old university when she takes part in the conference at Trinity College, Dublin.

She said she does not minimise the gravity of Alzheimer's disease, nor the fears it generates for people and their families, but people with mild and moderate stages of the disease "can actually live quite well with the condition".

She said people with worries about getting dementia often ask her if they are likely to lose their memory because their grandparent suffered from the condition. She generally seeks to reassure people that most cases of late onset Alzheimer's are not genetic.

"The other thing I get at talks is people come up to me and say 'I lose my keys' and 'I can't remember why I went into the next room', 'I can't remember where I parked my car' and I reassure them these are all human moments we have all the time. Forgetting where you left your keys is something that happens to us all. Now, if you don't remember what your keys are, or what they are for, then that's a different conversation altogether," she said.

Dr Montague said society considers having a good memory to be one of the most important human attributes but everyone has "flawed" memories. "In the last few years, science has discovered when you remember something, like the fond memory of your first kiss or whatever, you are only remembering the last time you remembered it.

"So all our memories are embellished, conflated, and falsified," she told the Sunday Independent.

In her new book, Lost and Found - Memory, Identity, and Who We Become When We're No Longer Ourselves, she refers to stories of people where dementia did not decimate their identity.

It is important that people, whose loved ones have dementia, should not assume they are "losing whoever they are".

"By focusing on memory, to the exclusion of everything else, we are missing that people can have autonomy and intelligence," she said.

In her book, she refers to a professor of psychology, Tom Kitwood, who warned about "a social environment that actively infantilises, intimidates, stigmatises and objectifies those with dementia".

Kitwood's efforts to end the 'dehumanisation' of those with dementia has led to new strategies used internationally to provide patient-centred care and to empower families.

Dr Montague wrote about an Alzheimer's patient, Anita, who suffered loss of memory, loss of fluency of speech, and loss of dexterity of movement. The neurologist stated she believed it was important to refuse to allow such losses "to withdraw personhood" from Anita.

When caring for a person with dementia who thinks the year is 1945, it is now believed to be less beneficial and more distressing to seek to "bring them back to the present".

"So there is a sense of just living in the moment with them, as long as no harm is done," she said.

She went on to say: "It's basically about not having such low expectations and that people with Alzheimer's actually have more capacity than they get credit for."

Home care for a person with dementia can be improved by making some simple changes to home designs, including the use of contrasting colours to make it easier for the person to navigate around their own homes.

An example of a problem of perception experienced by a person with Alzheimer's would be looking at a black doormat and believing it is a crater in the ground. Getting rid of the mat is a simple solution.

A person with Alzheimer's might think a blue-coloured floor is the ocean and be terrified to walk on it. Changing the colour of the floor would bring that person peace.

Referring to a person's sense of identity, she said: "I'd say that we are more than our memories - we need to separate pathology from the person. People with Alzheimer's can still have expression, compassion, autonomy and intelligence.

"Although I don't want to undermine the ramifications of Alzheimer's, people can live well with it for many years but as a society we need to support this - and by that I mean support those with dementia but also those that care for them.

"Our medical model of dementia often revolves around inability and invisibility; it defines people by their fading away rather than her stepping forth. And so it's really about raising awareness, enabling people with Alzheimer's to exist in the world, and providing practical support to carers. That there is more to Alzheimer's than loss and failure," she said.

The Memory Clinic Conference, organised by Mercer's Institute for Successful Ageing, takes place at TCD on June 8. Professionals welcome and people with dementia and their carers admitted free. Tickets from www.eventbrite.ie. Dr Montague's book Lost and Found - Memory, Identity and Who We Become When We're No Longer Ourselves is published by SpectreA YOUNG man has been charged with the murder of a father of four following an attack at a Cork pub.

Michael 'Mike' Dineen (27) was charged before Judge Aingeal Ni Chonduin at a special sitting of Mallow District Court.

Judge Ni Chonduin was told by Detective Sergeant James O'Shea that Dineen made no reply when the charge was formally put to him at Fermoy Garda Station at 1.25pm today.

Dineen of Ard Mhuileann, Ballinwillan, Mitchelstown, Co Cork appeared in court wearing a grey and blue hoodie-type top and tracksuit bottoms.

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He remained silent during the brief hearing, pausing only to confer with his solicitor.

Dineen was charged with the murder of Patrick 'Ginty' O'Donnell (36) at Willie Andie's Pub, New Square, Mitchelstown, Co Cork on Friday.

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As the charge involved is murder, bail can only be dealt with by the High Court.

Judge Ni Chonduin was told the State's application was for a remand in custody.

She remanded Dineen in custody to appear again before Fermoy District Court on Friday next, June 8.

The judge also directed, at the request of the defence legal team, for Dineen to be provided with whatever medical assistance he might require while in custody.

The court was told that he was already on medication before the alleged events of last Friday.

The court granted free legal aid after hearing that Dineen was in receipt of social welfare and had no other means of income.

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Mr O'Donnell, a father of four whose youngest child was born four months ago, was pronounced dead at the scene before he could be transferred to Cork University Hospital (CUH) last Friday night.

A post mortem was conducted at CUH by State Pathologist Dr Marie Cassidy.

While the results of the post mortem examination are being withheld by Gardai for operational reasons, they indicated that Mr O'Donnell died from severe head injuries sustained in an assault.A man is due to appear in court in connection with the death pf a father-of-four who died following a confrontation in a pub.

Gardai are investigating whether Patrick 'Ginty' O'Donnell (36) may have been the victim of repeated punches and kicks to the head.

A man, aged in his 20s, is due to appear at a special sitting of Mallow District Court today.

Tributes were paid to Mr O'Donnell, who only celebrated the birth of a child three months ago.

The father of four died following an incident late on Friday night at Willie Andies pub on the New Square in Mitchelstown, Co Cork - just metres from where a carnival had opened for the June Bank Holiday weekend.

Gardai and paramedics were called to the premises following the violent incident at 11pm.

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It is understood a verbal disagreement had erupted between Mr O'Donnell and a man in his 20s. Both had been socialising in the popular pub at the time.

Following the suspected assault, Mr O'Donnell collapsed at the scene in front of shocked revellers. He had sustained serious injuries to his head and face.

Locals desperately attempted to assist him pending the arrival of the emergency services.

Mr O'Donnell was initially in a critical condition with paramedics desperately attempting to stabilise his condition at the scene.

However, despite attempts to help Mr O'Donnell, he was pronounced dead before he could be transferred to Cork University Hospital (CUH).

Members of his family -who are from the Ballindangan area of Mitchelstown - attended the scene.

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His body was later transferred to CUH for a full post-mortem examination by State Pathologist Prof Marie Cassidy, who is attending from Dublin.

Gardai stressed that the nature of their investigation into the incident will now be determined by the results of that post-mortem examination.

One theory being examined is that Mr O'Donnell may have struck his head as he fell to the ground following the confrontation.

However, gardai are also investigating whether Mr O'Donnell may have sustained several heavy punches or kicks to the head. One source indicated that Mr O'Donnell was found with significant injuries to his head and face.

A man in his 20s was arrested at the scene and taken to Fermoy garda station for questioning about the incident. He was detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act and can be questioned for up to 24 hours.

The young man is also understood to be from the north Cork area. It is unclear if both men were known to each other.

Mr O'Donnell, known as 'Ginty' in Mitchelstown and Ballindangan, was described in the area as a man devoted to sport and the outdoors.

"He was a quiet lad - he loved hunting and you'd usually see him out and about with his dogs," one local said.

Other locals said they were deeply shocked by the tragedy.

"The whole town was looking forward to the Bank Holiday weekend and the arrival of the carnival. It's desperate what happened and tragic for the poor family. The whole place is shocked."

Mr O'Donnell, who would have been 37 in November, also had many friends within the extended Traveller community in north Cork.

The vicinity of Willie Andies pub was immediately cordoned off after the incident to allow for a full technical examination.

Mitchelstown's New Square was busy with bank holiday weekend revellers at the time and gardai believe there must have been a significant number of eye-witnesses to the incident.

A carnival had just opened in the area and number of people were also passing through the New Square heading to fast-food restaurants located in the vicinity.

Gardai are now checking CCTV security camera footage from business premises along the square to determine if cameras recorded the moments before the tragic incident and the movements of those involved.A tourist has reportedly died after plunging from a Magaluf apartment block.

The 20-year-old is, who has been named locally as Thomas Owen Hughes, is said to have arrived in Majorca yesterday.

He was initially described by police on the island as Irish - but on Monday morning they said he was British.

The apartment block where he was found, Eden Roc, is the same one where Scot Natalie Cormack died in April after falling from a seventh-floor ledge.

Local reports said the dead man involved in the latest tragedy, who has not been named, was staying at a nearby hotel and not Eden Roc.

Police have launched an investigation.

Investigators were unable to confirm local reports he was staying at a hotel in Magaluf and not at the Eden Roc apartment block he was found dead at.

One source said: A neighbour alerted police around 11am, saying they could see a person lying on the ground.

He fell from a height of around 20 metres.

Another said the circumstances were still being investigated and it was too early to reach any conclusions as to why it had happened.

It was not immediately clear this morning if the man died some time before his body was spotted.

A duty court in Palma has been placed in charge of an investigation into the mans death and is awaiting a full police report.

An autopsy is expected to be carried out tomorrow in the Majorcan capital.

Investigators from the Civil Guard force were on the ground yesterday.

Neighbours are thought to have told officers they heard a lot of noise around 4am, but it is unclear at this stage if it is connected to the death plunge.

He is said to have been identified by friends.

Civil Guard sources said they could offer no immediate information about why it had happened and were still investigating.

Paramedics called to the scene could do nothing to save the man and he was pronounced dead at the spot where he was found.

His body was taken away just before 1.30pm local time.

Natalie Cormack, the 19-year-old Magaluf worker from West Kilbride, Ayrshire, laid undiscovered for several hours before she was found dead on April 27.

She lost her balance after trying to get into the apartment block when she found the door locked and discovered she didnt have her key.A woman and three young children had a narrow escape after their Peugeot car burst into flames on a busy Photograph: Press 22

A woman and three young children had a narrow escape this afternoon after their car burst into flames on a busy motorway in Co Clare.

The black Peugeot was travelling north from Ennis on the M18 motorway when the woman noticed smoke coming form her vehicle. She managed to bring her car to a stop in the hard shoulder and evacuate the three children to safety.

Three units of the fire brigade from Ennis along with additional appliances from Shannon Town were sent to the incident which happened less than a kilometre junction 15 at Crusheen.

On arrival at the scene, fire crews found that all four occupants had gotten out of the car unharmed.

Thick black smoke was blown across the motorway forcing many motorists to slow down or stop. The northbound lanes of the motorway were quickly closed because of the danger posed by the poor visibility.

Fire personnel implemented emergency traffic management procedures and used their vehicles to create a rolling roadblock to safely bring traffic to a stop.

Motorists on the opposite side of the motorway, mostly unaffected by the incident, stopped and got out of their cars to take photos but were quickly moved on.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze however the car was destroyed. Once the fire was out, one lane of the motorway was reopened and traffic began to move slowly past the scene.

Traffic Infrastructure Ireland staff also attended the scene and assessed what, if any, damage had been caused to the motorway as a result of the fire. Once the vehicle was safely removed from the motorway, traffic movement returned to normal.

While not confirmed, its believed the fire was caused by an electrical issue.

Meanwhile, as fire crews were dealing with the incident they were alerted to an inbound aircraft emergency at Shannon Airport. Crews quickly responded to that call.

Last Wednesday, a car parked at the promenade in Lahinch Co Clare burst into flames unexpectedly. Locals managed to move vehicles that there were parked close to the car before it was completely engulfed. No one was injured on that incident.Arlene Foster has threatened to pull out of a deal to prop up Theresa May's Government if it adopts a Brexit deal that treats Northern Ireland differently from the rest of the UK.

The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader warned that customs parity with Britain was a "red line" for her party, whose ten MPs support the Conservatives in Westminster under a "supply and demand" arrangement.

UK Cabinet ministers are currently examining ideas to solve the Irish border issue after Britain quits the European Union.

One idea reportedly proposed by Brexit Secretary David Davis - and dismissed by Downing Street - would see Northern Ireland covered by a joint regime of UK and EU customs regulations, allowing it to trade freely with both, plus a 10-mile wide "special economic zone" on the border with Ireland.

But Ms Foster told Sky News: "For us, our only red line is that we are not treated any different from the rest of the United Kingdom, that there are no trade barriers put up between Northern Ireland and our biggest market which, of course, is Great Britain.

"That's what we will judge all of the propositions that are brought forward, we will judge it against that red line and she's very much aware of that, and I have confidence that she knows that she cannot bring forward anything that will breach that red line or we simply will not be able to support them."

UK Cabinet ministers were last month tasked with analysing the two main options so far put forward for the Irish border, a "customs partnership" proposal that would see Britain continue to collect tariffs on behalf of the EU and the technology-based "maximum facilitation" - or "max fac" - solution. Mr Davis' idea was dubbed "max fac 2".

Brussels has already rejected both schemes, with chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier saying on Friday that neither was "operational or acceptable".

EU leaders including Taoiseach Leo Varadkar have called for progress by the time the European Council meets at the end of June, with Tanaiste Simon Coveney on Saturday also telling the Irish Times the UK must produce "written proposals" for the border within the next two weeks.

Ministers on Sunday moved to dismiss reports that civil servants have been drawing up scenarios for a "Doomsday Brexit" that would leave the country short of medicine, fuel and food.

The Sunday Times said models for mild, severe and "Armageddon" reactions to no-deal exits were created, with a source saying that even the severe scenario saw the Port of Dover "collapse on day one".

Home Secretary Sajid Javid told the BBC's Andrew Marr Show: "I have to say I don't recognise any bit of that at all and as Home Secretary .. I am deeply involved in 'no deal preparations' as much as I am in getting a deal - I'm confident we will get a deal.

"From the work that I have seen and the analysis that has been done, those outcomes ... I don't think any of them would come to pass."

He added that the Government was making progress with Brexit plans, saying: "I'm confident that as we get to the June council meeting the Prime Minister will have a good set of proposals and our colleagues in Europe will respond positively."

Shadow international trade secretary Barry Gardiner said the Government's refusal to remain in a customs union with the European Union would ensure the UK was a "minnow trying to compete against whales" on the global stage.

He told Sky News Labour's Brexit policy would ensure "trade in goods would continue uninterrupted", adding: "The Tories' red line is actually going to make it much, much more difficult.

"They're the ones who will be isolated, they will be minnows trying to compete against whales.

"They will be a 70 million strong consumer market against America's 500 million."Fine Gael has spent almost 4bn of taxpayers' money paying for private rental accommodation since it came to power seven years ago, new figures reveal.

Figures compiled by Fianna Fail show the last two Fine Gael-led governments have spent billions of euros on rent allowances and subsidies since taking office.

Fianna Fail's housing spokesman Darragh O'Brien said the Government's reliance on private landlords to solve the housing and homelessness crisis was "unsustainable".

"The data I have received indicates a major change in government policy; a shift away from building homes and instead pouring taxpayers' money into the private housing sector," Mr O'Brien said.

"It's pretty stark to consider that 2.5bn alone has been spent since 2011 on providing rent supplement to private landlords across Ireland."

However, Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy hit back at Mr O'Brien, saying the massive spend on rental accommodation is a result of Fianna Fail outsourcing social house building to the private sector before "destroying that sector, as well as destroying the economy".

"I'm glad that they are bringing this legacy of their complete failure in government to the public's attention," Mr Murphy told the Sunday Independent.

"Though in asking the question it does make me worry - because they either don't understand how we got here or worse they want to fool the public into thinking they played no part in it. Give me a break," he added.

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The Government has been criticised for its overreliance on the private rental sector to provide social housing for people who cannot afford to buy or rent homes.

The Fianna Fail figures, which were compiled from responses to parliamentary questions, show in seven years Fine Gael spent 2.5bn on rent supplements, almost 1bn on the rent assistance scheme (RAS) and 226m on the housing assistance payment scheme (HAP). A further 291m has been allocated to lease properties under the social housing current expenditure programme.

There are more than 36,150 households in receipt of HAP and more than 21,000 separate landlords and agents providing accommodation to households under the scheme. The HAP scheme was introduced in 2014 to replace rent allowance on a phased basis. There are still 31,000 people in receipt of rent allowance.

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Last year, it was estimated the Government will spend 3bn in five years.

Analysis of the Dail declaration of interests shows one fifth of TDs has rental properties. The biggest landlord in the Dail is Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae with 10 rental properties in Kerry and Tipperary.

The 29 other landlords include Tanaiste Simon Coveney, Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan, Minister for Defence Paul Kehoe and Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed.

Five more Fine Gael TDs listed investment properties or rental incomes among their declared interests or said they are landlords. Dublin Bay South TD Kate O'Connell has five investment properties. The list also includes Ceann Comhairle Sean O Fearghail, 12 other Fianna Fail TDs, Labour TD Alan Kelly and four more Independent TDs including former minister Sean Canney, who has four letting properties.From l to right are Francis Fitzgerald, Simon Harris, minister for health, Senator, Catherine Noone and Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar celebrate the repeal of the 8th amendment at Dublin castle. Pic credit; Damien Eagers / INM

So, you think you know what happened in the abortion referendum? Well think again.

The following analysis, based on an RTE exit poll, puts the referendum result in a different perspective to the narrative widely presented since last weekend.

History is written by the victors, as Winston Churchill said.

However, this analysis makes a case that the Yes side did not sweep to victory acclaimed on the shoulders of the nation, despite the 66pc to 33pc result.

An alternative interpretation is that the Repeal side squeaked over the line and added a landslide late in the day, its victory assured by the No campaign which miscalculated from the start.

Whatever your take, the stats show there is not an overwhelming demand here for access to unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks.

As to Fianna Fail being the villains of the piece? Well, wrong again, or not exclusively accurate anyway. As it turned out, supporters of the Independent Alliance, including non-aligned Independents, were most opposed to the 12 weeks proposal.

And lest urbane progressives think that can be laid solely at the feet of Mattie McGrath and the like, well, that's not quite true either I'm afraid.

Elsewhere, the exit poll shows supporters of the Independent Alliance and non-aligned Independents to have been progressive in the same-sex marriage referendum, for example.

In fact, 70pc of supporters from Shane Ross to Mattie McGrath backed marriage equality.

So what, says you?

So this: only 60pc of Solidarity/People Before Profit supporters voted Yes to same-sex marriage, (although 20pc were not eligible to vote, which is interesting in itself).

But this is the point about the abortion referendum - it was passed by the comfortable middle classes, while the working class was far less enthusiastic.

If anything, the abortion referendum could be described as a very middle-class coup.

It will be interesting now to see whether the medical profession who advocated for Yes make abortion services affordable to all.

And whether the Government ensures it will.

And whether the mostly middle-class women who celebrated at Dublin Castle last weekend will campaign again if not.

And, for that matter, what the long-term socio-economic consequences will be should abortion be made affordable and, therefore, widely available.

For example, a controversial but not disproved study (Freakonomics) has linked legalised abortion in the US to a relative fall in subsequent crime rates.

Surely there are issues here with which 'new wave' feminism might more fully engage now that the abortion war has been won?

The working class has a different attitude to abortion, however, particularly on the 12 weeks issue, as the RTE exit poll shows.

Solidarity/PBP TD Ruth Coppinger was to the fore in the Yes campaign, undoubtedly.

But 20pc of her party's supporters 'strongly disagreed' with the 12 weeks proposal, and a further 20pc 'somewhat disagreed'.

That's a combined 40pc of Solidarity/PBP supporters with doubts about or serious opposition to unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks.

So, what happened - how did the abortion referendum pass so convincingly?

The small print of the poll reveals all.

The poll has an effective sample of 3,779, taken across 175 polling stations nationwide with a margin of error of plus or minus 1.6pc.

So, it is more accurate than your standard opinion polls, which as it happens were also pretty accurate before the referendum.

From several findings in the RTE poll, it is evident that between 15-20pc were undecided in the final days, maybe down to hours.

In other words, around three-quarters made up their minds a long way out, one way or the other.

An RTE poll question asked to what extent voters agreed with the 12 weeks proposal, which was by far the most contentious issue.

The overall answer was: 52pc agreed with 12 weeks while 39pc disagreed - a far more closely run thing then, you will agree.

And overall, a minority 48pc working class agreed with the 12 weeks proposal, while a significant 44pc disagreed.

Further breakdowns are illuminating: overall 35pc 'strongly agreed' with unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks and 29pc 'strongly disagreed' - your standard pro-choice and pro-life voters, respectively, core supporters one way and the other.

By the way, of those who 'strongly disagreed' with up to 12 weeks 24pc were middle class, but 34pc were working class.

Now we get to the middle ground: a further 17pc 'somewhat agreed', 7pc 'neither agreed nor disagreed' and 9pc 'slightly disagreed' with the 12 weeks proposal.

Let's break the overall numbers down even further, to the central point: of the overall Yes vote, a sizeable 8pc 'strongly disagreed' with unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks - but voted Yes anyway.

And of the overall Yes vote, a sizeable 7pc 'somewhat disagreed' with the 12 week proposal - but voted Yes anyway.

And of the overall Yes vote, a sizeable 9pc 'neither agreed nor disagreed' - but voted Yes anyway.

So, as we can see, almost a quarter (24pc) of Yes voters who disagreed to extents with unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks, or were unsure, voted Yes anyway.

And that right there, folks, is what accounts for the landslide Yes vote, which, at a comfortable level, had a slight 52pc majority for unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks, and would have passed.

The counter argument, of course, is that people set aside their personal (strong) disagreement with unrestricted abortion and delivered a landslide to allow women the right to choose.

There is merit in that argument.

But the relative lack of core support for unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks puts a different complexion on the result all the same.

An alternative interpretation, albeit from a much maligned middle-aged, male (although not middle class) political journalist is that there was not so much a 'silent' as a 'reluctant' Yes vote out there.

Faced with a binary choice, a slim majority (52pc) supported unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks - as we middle-aged Malcolms in the middle had predicted all along.

But the landslide was delivered by 'reluctant' Yes voters, who made up their minds in the final week, days or even hours.

In fact, I know of one such indecisive Yes voter who walked in and out of a polling station three times before she cast her ballot.

It also seems to me that the 'reluctant' Yes could not support the No argument on a flawed and discredited Eighth Amendment.

After all, this was basically the No argument: your daughter has been impregnated through rape - tough; your wife must carry full term a baby that will die within minutes of birth - ah well; your daughter faces serious health problems in pregnancy - so what?; your wife will die if she continues with her pregnancy - sad, but that's the way it goes.

Like Napoleon in the Battle of Waterloo, the No side entirely staked out the wrong (absolutist) position.

In retrospect, it was no argument at all, which the No side attempted to nuance late in the campaign with their 'too extreme' manoeuvre.

The Yes side, meanwhile, kept the focus firmly on the 'distress' issues: care and compassion; your wife, your daughter, your friend.

But still, as is evident from the RTE exit poll, the 12-week proposal saw many 'undecideds' on the rack up to the final moment.

That said, the manner in which 'undecideds' plumped for Yes was one of the more curious things witnessed in electoral politics here.

The expectation, on both sides, was that the 'undecided' would break down more Yes than No, but not as definitively Yes as it did.

It has been said, with merit, that the intention was pro-choice, to allow women the right to choose, and, indeed, other poll findings support that contention.

However, the fact remains, 'undecided' voters felt they had no real choice in this referendum - but they simply could not vote No.

And maybe they also wanted to be rid of an issue that has plagued the country for 35 years.

Eventually they weighed up a reasonable Yes argument against a really poor No one and went for Yes. And that really should be an end to the matter.

It is time to legislate, after a parliamentary debate by all sides and shades of opinion, for unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks. After all, that is what people voted for, however reluctantly.Not just one, but two of Britain's most eligible bachelors were taken off the market in May.

And while no-one could have missed the marriage of Prince Harry - marked by street parties, pageantry, and the attention of the world press - the wedding of the UK's second most famous posh rogue, Hugh Grant, was a rather more discreet affair.

He slipped off and quietly wed his long-term girlfriend Anna Eberstein at Chelsea registry office in London. The bride looked insouciant in a pleated mini-skirt, their toddler daughter on her hip, and Grant - three years shy of his 60th birthday - made a distinguished-looking groom.

While the world remained conveniently distracted by the every movement of the newly- minted Duke and Duchess of Sussex, news of Grant's union with TV producer Anna, mother of three of his five children (their third baby was born earlier this year) rather slipped under the radar.

Even the newlyweds' first public appearance at the Grand Prix in Monaco was rather without fanfare.

Grant's wedding was the good news we never expected to hear. A career commitment-phobe, a few years ago he was accused by one British columnist as being "embarrassingly incapable of growing up." Even as recently as 2016, he declared the institution of marriage "unromantic" and decried the idea of "closing yourself off."

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He was emphatic in an interview with American DJ Howard Stern that he didn't think human beings "are meant to be in 40-year-long monogamous, faithful, relationships."

Presumably, one advantage of leaving marriage till later in life is that it takes some of the dread out of the prospect of decades spent held captive. Marriage at almost 60 is more of a long-term than a life sentence. Or perhaps, Grant managed to negotiate a loop-hole to the fidelity clause. "I always admire the French and the Italians, who are very devoted to their marriages," he told Howard Stern. "They take them extremely seriously, but it is understood that there might be other visitors at five o'clock in the afternoon. You just never boast about it. They never say anything, but that's what keeps marriages together."

Maybe his views on the matter have changed since then. Or maybe his bride knows exactly what she is letting herself in for, and accepts him anyway for what he is.

In any case, Grant's family will always take a blended, unconventional form. Since he turned 50, his personal life has been both enriched and complicated by a spree of paternity. In one eventful 18-month period, he fathered three children by two different women, one of whom is his new wife.

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His first-born - a daughter named Tabitha - was the happy result of what a spokesperson for Grant described at the time as a "fleeting affair" with a Chinese-born hostess named Tinglan Hong. Though it was perhaps not as fleeting as all that. Two years later, Tinglan Hong gave birth to their second child, a boy named Felix. Then, just as it appeared he might be settling down, in 2014 came the revelation that he had, in fact, fathered another child in between the birth of his daughter and son, a baby boy born three months before Felix, meaning that two women had been pregnant by Grant at the same time. When his son John was born, the father's name on the birth certificate was left blank. His mother was named as Anna Eberstein.

Two years later, the paperwork was quietly re-filed, with Grant now named on the birth certificate as the boy's father.

If there was one thing that Grant seemed ready to fully commit to, it was fatherhood. By the time he welcomed his first child, he'd been expressing an interest for some time.

"I remember reading a Warren Beatty quote when he finally had children and said what a relief it was not to be all me, me, me," he told American Vogue in 2007. "As much as I adore myself, I'm quite keen to find someone else to care about more."

Having children was the easy bit. Finding a partner to care about more than himself, seemed the more challenging prospect.

Grant spent over a decade with Liz Hurley, whom he met on a theatre set and started dating before either of them were famous. Having himself achieved success, he helped steward her to fame after she appeared on his arm on the red carpet wearing the infamous safety-pin dress that made her name. But their romantic relationship faltered not long after Grant was arrested in his car on Sunset Boulevard along with a prostitute named Divine Brown.

His apology was swift. Even in a sheepish mugshot, he was a picture of contrition. "I have hurt people I love and embarrassed people I work with. For both things I am more sorry than I can ever possibly say," he said at the time.

The film industry quickly forgave him and even Liz Hurley couldn't stay angry for long.

"I've done an abominable thing, and she's [Liz Hurley] been amazing about it, and contrary to what I read in the paper, she's been very supportive, and we're going to try to work it out,'' said Grant at the time.

Though they split the following year, they remain the best of friends. "We're like brother and sister," he recently said in an interview with the American broadcaster Jess Cagle.

"I think it's partly because we went from zero to somewhere together, and we went through terrible years at the beginning when neither of us had any work, living in a tiny flat. It was quite bonding."

For her part, Liz remains fiercely loyal to Hugh, who is godfather to her teenage son, to this day.

"We are 31 years into our friendship and he's still my best friend in the world," she said recently. "He's a really great guy. I see him a lot, I speak to him a lot. You know, he's now a father of five, he has five kids and is a great dad."

Grant was once famous in media circles in Britain as the man who can "fell a pair of knickers at 100 paces". But it's telling that, despite his chequered past, the women who have had a chance to really get to know him remain firmly in his corner.

He reportedly split with another glamorous, posh ex, Jemima Goldsmith, due to his "commitment-phobia" but she too remains a very close friend. The most plausible explanation for this is that they forgive him for his cavalier approach to romance, because they believe him to be fundamentally decent and good fun. And the clear-eyed Anna Eberstein has evidently decided that whatever Grant's flaws, those two things are enough to build a marriage on.As a child, I remember reading The Great Blueness, Arnold Lobel's book that sees a wizard bring colour to a grey world.

Before achieving the right mix, he makes some brilliant mistakes. One of them is to colour everything blue.

Walking the labyrinthine lanes of Chefchaouen in northern Morocco, I wonder: did Lobel pay a visit?

Radiating from the kasbah, the town's streets are marvellously, trippily, beautifully blue. Cascading down its mountain perch, the rinse washes over mosques, cafes, houses and shops like an Instagram filter.

There's is a key difference from the book, though. Lobel's blue made everyone sad, prompting the wizard to try again. Chefchaouen does the opposite.

Bolt from the blue

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Why is Chefchaouen so blue? That's the question.

One theory says the lime wash evokes fresh water, helping keep mosquitoes away. Another suggests it originates with Jewish residents who arrived during the 1930s (the blue is said to reflect the sky and encourage thoughts of a spiritual life).

Whatever the history, it's a unique place to wander - like the pueblos blancos of southern Spain or the sparkling blues and whites of Santorini.

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Ponder the origin stories over lunch or dinner in Bab Ssour (5 Rue Elkharrazin), a family restaurant accessed through a grocery shop in the lower medina.

Here, you can sit elbow to elbow with locals mopping up tender, homemade goat tagine with ridiculously fresh bread. Yum.

Cheap kick

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Just walk! Watch men drifting by in their djellabas, like Jedi Knights. Spot studded doors, leading to hidden houses. Wonder at the colourful flower pots, the creeping cats and vibrant vines. Get up early, to the morning drone of prayer from minarets. Eat local goat's cheese (above), honey and olives, or sip a mint tea (Moroccans love it loaded with sugar) on the square.

I stayed at Dar Echchaouen (darechchaouen.com; doubles from c. 64), a hillside hotel just a short walk from the town. One night is plenty.

Top tip

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'Chaouen' takes its name from the Berber word for 'horns', sitting as it does between two spiky mountain tops. Legend says just three Westerners visited before 1920, but the secret is out now - so make sure you visit in spring or autumn, avoiding the crowds and finding a gentler light and less irritable locals.

Get me there

Chefchaouen is a 2.5 hour drive from Tangiers, itself accessible via a short ferry crossing from Spain (conceivably, you could visit from the Costa del Sol).

Pol travelled as a guest of Intrepid Travel (intrepidtravel.com), which has a nine-day North Morocco tour including Fes, Chefchaouen and Tangier from 625pp, excluding flights. See also muchmorocco.com.

Read more:Turning left when you board a plane is one of the sweetest sensations in travel.

Lie-flat seats, decent food and wine, plush duvets and personal service... it's a world away from cattle class.

Flying in style can cost thousands, however - so how can normal human beings hack the system? Here are a few tips to get your search for a cheaper business fare started.

1. Bid for upgrades

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Some airlines, including Aer Lingus (above), allow passengers to bid for upgrades on long-haul flights. You make the airline an offer (go to 'Manage My Booking' online), and it awards available seats to the highest bidders. On busy routes, business class can be pricey (or booked out) but quieter days could see you riding up front for hundreds, rather than thousands.

2. Search smarter

Sites like Skyscanner, Kayak or Google's ITA Matrix Airfare Search (matrix.itasoftware.com) allow you to search by class. If your dates are flexible, you have a better chance of bagging a deal. Another trick is to reset the country of an airline website to see business class deals from different destinations.

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3. Add a stop

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Similar to regular airfares, you can save on business class fares by flying indirect. On a dummy search for Dublin to New York in October, for example, I found direct flights with Aer Lingus from 1,869 return, whereas flights via Keflavik with IcelandAir were 1,062. The difference in travel time is just three hours.

4. Score points

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Airline points can be an economic way to buy an upgrade, and airlines also tend to favour loyalty scheme members where free upgrades are available. Some, like BA and Etihad, offer household accounts - so several fliers can pool their points.

5. Stay alert

Signing up to airline newsletters, fare alerts and social media gives you first dibs on early offers. Remember that travel agents and tour operators often have special access to sales: give them a call before booking. If you spot a deal, secure it immediately. There's no point waiting.

6. Just ask!

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What have you got to lose? Airlines favour customers with status in loyalty schemes, but regular punters can hit the jackpot too. They key is to dress smart, act confidently and make your request politely at check-in (not the gate). Solo travellers have a stronger chance, and it helps to mention a special occasion such as a birthday or honeymoon too.

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7. Try premium

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A halfway house between economy and business class, premium economy offers perks like extra legroom, noise-cancelling headphones and earlier disembarkation. On a recent Finnair flight from Tokyo to Helsinki, I upgraded for 71 on the night before travel... not bad for nine hours of flying time. American and Air Canada have new lines in premium economy from Ireland, too.

Read more:It's 7.30 in the evening and it's still very hot (35 degrees) and humid outside, and my glasses steam up as I step out from my hotel into the teeming streets of Taipei, capital of Taiwan, Republic of China.

I am in search of food, and as I pass Taipei Main Railway Station, I decide to duck inside to take advantage of the air conditioning.

On the station concourse, as well as all the usual signs for platforms and ticket offices, there are several signs for shopping malls.

I follow the signs for the Taipei City Mall and two floors below the station I emerge into a labyrinth of wide avenues housing colourful shops that are selling every type of goods imaginable, and many things that I could not identify.

The mall stretches for miles below the city streets and although all the signs are in Chinese, the shopkeepers are all smiling and friendly. You can buy anything here, from high fashion to base metals.

I was hungry, however, so I headed back to street level and found myself in a narrow street lined with small noodle houses.

I had arrived at a popular time and the street was teeming with noise and people and the mingled aromas of diesel fumes and frying noodles.

Most of the tiny noodle shops looked - and smelled - quite inviting, if appearing a little basic, but there were so many that I found it impossible to choose one and as all the signs were in Chinese, I realised I would have difficulty ordering so I headed back to the Main Station where I had spotted a sign for a Gourmet Food Court.

"You must try the stewed beef noodle soup," I had been told by a Taiwanese colleague in Dublin, and this was the dish I was seeking.

The food court had all sorts of eating places, from gourmet restaurants to sushi houses and Krispy Kreme doughnuts.

But I soon found what I was looking for - a whole row of noodle houses devoted purely to beef noodles.

Each stall had about seven or eight different versions of the dish, so with the aid of graphic pictures and 3D models, I selected the No 1 option from the Champion Noodle House and boy was I not disappointed.

The meal tasted like a cross between the best Sunday roast you've ever had and the best stir-fry noodles you've ever had. A huge bowl cost only about 6.

The following day I took a trip to the Baoan Temple. Dating back 270 years, this is one of the oldest and biggest temples in Taipei. It has been rebuilt and renovated many times over the years, and in 2003 it was granted a UNESCO award for conservation.

"You enter by the dragon side (right) and leave by the lion side (left)," explained our guide as he led us past the temple's elaborately carved pillars.

The traditional-style roof is festooned with colourful carvings of dragons, birds and various other creatures.

Inside, there are many altars devoted to different deities and there's even one dedicated to Confucius, for those seeking wisdom.

To understand Taiwan, it is necessary to understand some of its history.

It is a small island (about half the size of Ireland) lying just 180km to the south-east of mainland China.

It has a population of some 25 million people and is one of the most densely populated places on the planet.

Originally inhabited by indigenous tribes (about 2pc of the current population is made up of indigenous people), the island was colonised by the Dutch for a short period in the 17th century (who called it Formosa) and then ruled by China until 1895 when the Qing dynasty government ceded the island to Japan. In 1945, Japan had to cede the island back to China as part of their World War II surrender terms, but in 1946, the revolution took place on mainland China.

Mao Zedong eventually took power and established the People's Republic of China.

After losing control of the mainland, the Kuomintang (KMT) government under President Chiang Kai-shek, withdrew to the island and established Taiwan, Republic of China in 1949.

They ruled the island as a single-party state until democratic reforms were introduced in the 1980s and opposition parties were established.

Today, Taiwan has become a modern democracy with free healthcare for all its citizens and it is a world leader in manufacturing and technology.

In January the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was elected and party chairman Tsai Ing-wen became the first female president of Taiwan, and the first from an opposition party.

With Prime Minister Lin Chuan, Tsai has promised major political reforms and new initiatives to stimulate business and trade. Tsai's election however, has not proved popular with the leaders of mainland China who have cut off official contact with Taiwan.

Part of the history of the island is encapsulated in The National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall which was built in the late 1970s in memory of the former president.

The large concourse also houses the National Theatre and the National Concert Hall, but the blue octagonal-roofed memorial is the most interesting.

Two stairways of 80 steps (the president's age when he died), lead to a massive statue of Chiang. At ground level there are exhibits relating to the history of the island and the former president, including several of his classic cars.

For anyone interested in modern design and innovation, the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is a great place to visit.

Established in 2012 to stimulate creative talents, the former tobacco factory now houses studios, exhibition spaces and galleries, libraries, creative labs, performance spaces and the Taiwan Design Museum.

The park is open to the public and just across the road there is a large gallery and shops where you can find a huge range of artisan foods, fashion, crafts and goods designed by young up-and-coming designers.

No visit to Taiwan would be complete without a train journey, so we took Taiwan High Speed Rail's service to Chiayi to visit the southern branch of the National Palace Museum and stay in the charming southern city of Tainan.

From the train, you really get a sense of how densely populated the country is. There appears to be virtually no countryside, just a continuation of the vast urban sprawl - although there are some areas of outstanding natural beauty, particularly in the Siraya National Scenic Area.

The National Palace museum (Southern Branch), which opened only last year, is housed in a striking, ultra-modern building surrounded by artificial lakes.

Exhibits include a Buddhism gallery, which explains the history of the religion and how it came to China, a textile gallery and an area devoted to tea culture and the history of tea.

There is also a fantastic ceramics exhibit with fabulous pottery from all over Asia, including many examples from the Ming dynasty.

The highlight when we visited was the display of the Jadeite Cabbage.

Described as The Mona Lisa of Asian Art, it is a six-inch high piece of jade that has been exquisitely carved into the shape of a Chinese cabbage, and it was receiving much admiration from locals and tourists alike.

Next we headed for Tainan city. Smaller and much more relaxed than Taipei (pei means north and nan means south) this is the most historic city in Taiwan and was the original capital under the Dutch and early Chinese settlements.

At the Chihkan Tower in the centre of Tainan you can still see part of the original 17th century Dutch Fort Provintia beneath the Chinese-style pagodas.

We stopped for a deliciously refreshing winter melon juice drink at a street kiosk before visiting the small Chuan Mei cinema where an elderly artist was hand-painting the movie posters outside. This is local-born movie director Ang Lee's (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Brokeback Mountain; Life of Pi; etc) favourite cinema and he is said to visit it every time he returns to Taiwan.

That evening, we had a fabulous meal in Tainan's oldest restaurant, A Xia, where we sampled some of the local specialities, including pork liver sausage, fried shrimp cake, sticky rice with crab and its dessert speciality, a red bean soup with pink sticky rice balls, taro fruit, almond tofu and ice - believe me, it tasted much better than it sounds.

Back in Taipei a few days later, we took a trip to the most iconic building in Taiwan.

The bamboo-shaped Taipei 101 tower soars 509 metres into the skyline making it the second-tallest building in the world (Burj Khalifa in Dubai is now the tallest).

The high-speed elevator seemed to take just milliseconds to take us to the observatory on the 89th floor (the lifts travel at a top speed of 1,010 metres per minute and are classified as the world's fastest elevators in the Guinness Book of Records) where we enjoyed magnificent, panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

It's a great place to look down on the teeming city with its millions of motor scooters buzzing through the streets (Taiwan is home to 12 million scooters), the strange mixture of traditional and contemporary architecture, and all the vibrancy and excitement you would expect from such a truly unique city at the heart of Asia.

Getting there

The national carriers China Airlines and EVA Air provide scheduled flights all over the world with links to Ireland

Willy Brennan travelled on Emirates flights from Dublin to Dubai and then Dubai to Taipei

Taipei is teeming with five-star hotels. Willy stayed at the Palais de Chine Hotel in central Taipei and at Shangri Las Far Eastern Plaza Hotel in Tainan. www.palaisdechinehotel.com and www.shangri-la.com

The local currency is the NewTaiwan Dollar (approx TWD35 = 1). The currency can be difficult to exchange in Europe. Shops, restaurants and bank machines accept all major credit cards

For general information visit: http://taiwan.net.tw or www.taiwantrip.com.tw

Taipei 101 bookings: www.taipei-101.com.tw

National Palace Museum: www.npm.gov.tw

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall: www.cksmh.gov.tw/eng/

Willy travelled to Taiwan as a guest of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of China (Taiwan)

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TAKE THREE: Top Attractions

Delightful dumplings

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There are dumpling restaurants all over Taiwan but our favourite was Din Tai Fung where they have been serving in Taipei since 1972. There is now a chain of more than 100 stores around the world and the Hong Kong branch has held a Michelin star for five years. As you enter the restaurant, you can watch the chefs hand roll and fill the dumplings in the open-plan kitchens before sitting down to taste them.

Muddy marvellous

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The mountainous Guanziling area near Tainan is famous for its hot mud springs and there are a number of resort hotels where you can pamper yourself with natural hot mud baths in the alkaline-rich spring water. The springs are reputed to be very effective in treating various medical ailments and its one of the most relaxing and healthy ways to spend a couple of hours. Your skin feels so refreshed afterwards.

Try a snake dish

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There are several different night markets all over the city of Taipei serving mainly local delicacies. There is even one market which specialises in various dishes involving snake. The bustling markets are vibrant and colourful and full of locals sampling their favourite dishes. There is every type of seafood, barbecued meats, soups and exotic vegetables on offer at a fraction of the cost of a restaurant.Premium

Brendan O'Connor Opinion Brendan OConnor: Whatever happened to Were All In It Together?

Just so were clear. The whole Were all in this together thing, thats over now, is it? Just so were all agreed, and we all know where we stand. We can barely remember those times now, 2020, the first half of 2021. They seem like some kind of a dream. All that baking and jogging and home-schooling and gathering around the TV for doomsday announcements. We all agreed it was bringing out the best of us. Things were going to change forever. It made us realise the old ways had been all wrong. Yes, it would all be different now. We would be grateful for everything, we would look out for each other, and for mother Earth. It was a wake-up call, a great reset. We were going to reassess everything.Premium

Dan O'Brien Opinion While we catastrophise about Covid, we ignore risk of running out of cash

We Irish view the world in an increasingly strange and unhealthy way. We catastrophise about Covid in a way other European countries do not. We focus on how bad the effects of the virus could get, on how many more restrictions might be imposed by Government and how helpless we are in the face of the virus.Premium

Eoghan Harris Opinion Misery media fails to give due credit to the Taoiseach

Taoiseach Micheal Martin must drive his advisers mad. Unlike Leo Varadkar or Donald Trump, he never bigs up success stories such as the effect of Level 3 Plus on Covid or his visionary Shared Island project. Last Friday, Tony Holohan and RTE cheerleaders seemed to imply Level 5 was responsible for the improved Covid situation. Not so.When Britain voted in 2016 to leave the European Union, it, perhaps unwittingly, handed an opportunity to Dublin to grab a share of London's financial services business.

Companies in the City of London's financial heart like the idea of moving to Dublin - it's an English-speaking city close to both the UK and the Continent. Dublin has a growing financial services base, with almost 40,000 people working in the IFSC.

However, if Ireland is serious about being a player, it must overcome several hurdles. Perhaps the most important of these is its real estate market.

London's success has been driven primarily by the economics of business clustering. In order to succeed, banks and financial firms find that they need to locate as close together as possible. This clustering provides a competitive advantage. It allows companies to remain in the informational loop in a rapidly changing world, and gives them access to high-skilled workers and the web of related businesses. This agglomeration creates a positive feedback loop: when businesses congregate they are more profitable and competitive, and this draws more firms and workers, further enhancing profits and competitiveness.

London's finance and banking industry dates back to the mercantile revolution of the 17th century. Prying loose such an advantage is not easy since these forces of agglomeration are so strong.

Historically, Dublin has been a low-rise city, and today much of its area is legally mandated to remain as such. In the 1800s, when London was cementing its lead in banking, Dublin was one of Europe's largest cities.

During the 19th century, however, it stagnated as its moneyed elite moved to London, and Belfast became the island's industrial hub. At the same time, Ireland was experiencing population loss due to famine, emigration and economic struggles. (Today, we are the only country in the world with fewer people than we had two centuries ago.) As a result, Ireland - and Dublin, in particular - has gained little or no expertise in building up, because it never had to.

Similar to other wealthy European cities, Dublin is preserving its older structures, which places severe constraints on what can be built, despite the fact that our population growth is one of Europe's fastest; as a result, Dublin has an expensive housing market.

Given this history, Dublin faces high hurdles in becoming a genuine alternative to London. First is that employees in the growing finance sector and related industries will need affordable housing. The high costs of homes will make it difficult to make Dublin an attractive place to live. But, perhaps more importantly, financial firms will need office buildings where they can cluster - generally speaking, taller buildings are best for this. It is hard to generate a virtuous cycle of economic growth if a city does not have the space in which to grow.

The standard definition of a skyscraper is a building of at least 100m. By that measure, Dublin has none. Yet, throughout the world, there is a strong correlation between skyscrapers and the success of a city's financial sector. Take China and United Arab Emirates; Shanghai and Dubai's skyscrapers are the direct results of plans to make these places capitals of trade and finance. While London's skyline is not as tall as these cities, it had a 300-year head start. Other cities the world over are eager to get into the financial services game and are building to accommodate the new, anticipated trade.

So what can be done? If Dublin wants to present itself as a viable alternative to London, then it needs to undertake a series of reforms in its property market. Dublin should create a special economic and business industrial property zone, where developers will have the freedom to build skyscrapers based on the economic demand. The skyscrapers will become icons that announce to the world that Ireland means business.

We should also consider implementing a land tax that penalises landowners, including public ones, for having undeveloped or underutilised sites. The land tax is also a good way for transport infrastructure to pay for itself.

More broadly, the city should consider relaxing maximum height restrictions. Building regulations can be implemented, as is common in many US cities, that allow developers to build taller, if they make their structures less bulky. This increases building density, but also preserves access to sunlight on the street.

While Dublin needs more and taller buildings, it lacks the domestic high-rise construction industry to realise this need; Brexit offers an opportunity for construction, architectural, and engineering companies to expand into the local market, thus helping to develop Ireland's construction industry.

If Dublin wants to take advantage of the economic opportunity created by Brexit, it must develop a plan to build its field of financial dreams.

Jason M Barr is a professor of economics at Rutgers University in New Jersey and author of 'Building the Skyline: The Birth and Growth of Manhattan's Skyscrapers'. Ronan Lyons is an assistant professor of economics at Trinity College Dublin and author of the daft.ie reports on the Irish housing marketThe referendum's over, and there won't be another one for, oh, months. Politically, that means everything's back to normal for the time being. No bad thing.

When it comes to Northern Ireland, however, normality is seriously over-rated. Normality just means more stand-offs between Sinn Fein and the DUP requiring round-the- clock attention by the two governments. The counting was barely over in the abortion referendum before the Minister for Foreign Affairs was facing renewed demands for a border poll to decide Northern Ireland's constitutional future.

Simon Coveney insisted that the time is not right for such a vote and that it would simply fuel further polarisation at a time when the Government is trying to find "sensible" solutions to the Brexit puzzle. "Calls from some quarters for a border poll now or in the near future," he told a seminar of senior civil servants in Dublin, "are not wise and not welcome."

By "some" he meant Sinn Fein, because they were the only ones doing the calling. New leader Mary Lou McDonald is clearly despatching the troops to reassure Northerners that she hasn't been too distracted by Irish women's rights to pay sufficient attention to what grumpy auld lads in South Armagh want too.

To be fair, SF can hardly be blamed for wanting a border poll. SF's entire existence is predicated on demanding a border poll. They're not even put off by polls showing that only 21pc of people in the North would actually vote for a united Ireland right now.

What's more noteworthy here is Coveney's sniffiness in response to that call. He's in no position to urge caution, when he's been encouraging this carry on ever since he became Minister for Foreign Affairs. Suddenly he wants everyone to calm down and take a breather before plunging into divisive territory?

If that's his desire, he should have followed the lead of his predecessor in the job, Charlie Flanagan, who rarely courted controversy for its own sake. His interventions in Northern affairs were largely dull, and that's a compliment, because it's fair to say that most voters in the Republic would rather hear nothing at all from Belfast unless they really must. The nitty gritty of Northern politics bores them.

As a result of encouraging SF into thinking it's behind them all the way, Varadkar's government has ensured instead that Northern Ireland remains in the headlines. It's certainly worth noting that the North has taken something of a back seat these past months as campaigning on the Eighth was in full swing.

Is it a coincidence that there were no crises demanding the attention of Dublin during this period, or could it be that SF knew there was no point stamping its foot and demanding attention while minds were focussed elsewhere? If only the Irish government had followed that path all along there might have been a resumption of power-sharing before now.

In resisting the re-imposition of direct rule and holding out instead for Dublin's involvement in running Northern Ireland, the Minister for Foreign Affairs has given SF even more reasons to keep saying No, and SF's contentedness with this situation is demonstrated by the fact that Mary Lou's party currently insists it has no problem with Fine Gael's approach to the North. If so, it's only because Leo and Simon are delivering exactly what SF wants, which is a rolling crisis that increases, in their eyes, the groundswell for a united Ireland (even if polls beg to differ).

Much of this impatience derives, of course, from the giddiness which entered the body politic in the North following the Brexit vote. That's not Dublin's fault. It was the UK as a whole which voted to leave the European Union. That's what prompted in Irish Republicans, together with Scottish Nationalists, a conviction that their day had finally come. Tiocfaidh ar la, indeed. The North, like Scotland, voted to Remain. Surely it was only a matter of time before the majority who did not wish to leave the EU chose to stay part of Europe by backing an independent Scotland and united Ireland?

That feeling quickly cooled in Scotland, but it lingers in the North, not least because the Irish government encouraged it under the leadership of the new Taoiseach. Now he and Coveney seem to want to dampen it down, hence the Minister for Foreign Affairs' warning that times are "sensitive" and should not be aggravated by a border poll.

Perhaps he's realising that he heightened expectations among nationalists with no immediately obvious way of satisfying them any time soon.

As things stand, he's unlikely to get his way. At that conference last week, Coveney made no apology for the Government's tough negotiating stance on Brexit, and nor, arguably, should he. It's popular at home. It might even work in persuading the British that they must stay so closely allied to the EU as to make their exit from it purely symbolic to all intents and purposes. It does, at the same time, undoubtedly raise tensions, which feed into politics in the North, requiring his ever greater attention.

New problems keep arising all the time. Last week it was a reported proposal by the UK's Brexit Secretary, David Davis, which would have involved Northern Ireland falling under overlapping EU/UK jurisdiction.

Unionists didn't like it, because it would involve the North being treated differently to the rest of the UK; they called it "half-cooked" and Downing Street quickly ruled it out. The proposal was certainly unexpected, following years when Britain has ruled out any form of joint sovereignty with Dublin. How is effective joint sovereignty with Brussels any preferable?

But it's also far from clear why SF was so scornful of the plan. The party's Brexit spokesman, Waterford TD David Cullinane, even said that it "would be ridiculous if it was not so serious". Admittedly, the suggestion for a 10-mile buffer zone along the Border is a bit strange, and looks unworkable, but overall the joint stewardship element of the proposal didn't sound that different from SF's long-standing demand that Northern Ireland be given special status within the EU.

Are they just saying No to everything now, in the hope that Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney will rustle up something better down the line?'Not impressed I am with the people of Donegal," declared Ivan Yates on his Newstalk show last week as he mulled over the result of the abortion referendum, mangling grammar in the manner of Yoda from Star Wars in his determination to show maximum indignation at Ireland's most remote and northernmost constituency for voting No.

It was as if Donegal was on the naughty step and had to explain itself to the rest of the country. The campaign to repeal the Eighth Amendment carried the day. Why this need to still try and whip everyone who voted No into line?

Sadly, many Yes supporters took up the challenge to explain Donegal's No vote in a way that would pacify those determined to take offence that they couldn't carry the whole country for Yes. All the young people have moved away to Dublin and other more enlightened urban places, some pointed out. The county had suffered disproportionately from the downturn, others chipped in. They meant well, but in defending the good people of Donegal who voted Yes, or who weren't back home to do so, they reinforced the idea that the ones left behind who did vote No were, ipso facto, bad.

Donegal shouldn't have had to justify itself at all. It voted No. Get over it. A mature democracy ought to be able to cope with dissent.

But isn't that what always happens? First comes the result, and the winners are radiant, carefree. Then the high wears off and they start seeking the next fix of self-righteousness.

Campaigners have already set their sights on loosening the Catholic Church's hold on Irish education, and that's not a dishonourable cause by any means.

But why that? Why now? It's because overcoming their enemies in the abortion referendum by a margin of two to one was still not enough to satiate the aching discontent that the self-styled agents of liberalism feel when they survey the social and political landscape. The existence of any resistance whatsoever seems to somehow cast a shadow over their satisfaction, even when those opponents have, quite literally, zero power.

None of this is unusual. Experiments in social psychology have long observed that people "can enter into us-versus-them thinking in seconds, and they will do so over just about everything".

More pertinently to the Irish situation, the same research also shows that, once sorted into rival groups, they'll immediately think of the others as morally and intellectually inferior. The differences don't even need to be that great to stimulate tribal loyalty. Even randomly sorting people into groups can set it off.

It's also undoubtedly true that much of this backlash was thoroughly deserved. The campaign to retain the Eighth was not restricted only to supporters of the Catholic Church, but it would be foolish to deny that the recent history of the Church played a part in shaping people's thoughts on the referendum.

For that, the Church has only itself to blame for undermining its own authority so thoroughly as a result of the institutional cover- up of clerical child abuse and its treatment of vulnerable women in the Magdalene Laundries and Mother and Baby homes that, when it was needed, the Church found that it had squandered all its moral capital and had none left to spend in support of the unborn.

A more exemplary church probably wouldn't have made a difference to the result, but its ignominy was part of the picture. But even if the Church has been the author of its own downfall, it doesn't mean we're not in danger of losing something integral to Irish life and society by casting all those who hold socially conservative points of view as enemies of the State, or by talking of them as if they are somehow "other" - a race apart.

What happened to respecting the opinions of minorities? More than 700,000 people voted No. That's more than the number who voted for either Fine Gael or Fianna Fail at the last election. It's more than twice as many as voted for Sinn Fein, which that party celebrated as a stunning electoral mandate.

That those people are now unrepresented by any major political party is worrying enough. Of greater concern, though, is the growing feeling among the pro-repeal majority that it doesn't matter if those people are unrepresented, because they ought to be crawling into a hole somewhere and shutting up. Forever.

That's not some fanciful interpretation of the mood. It's what was actually being said after last weekend's Yes vote. It can be called many things, but the march of liberal tolerance is not one of them. Even Leo Varadkar was not immune. As the results came in, the Fine Gael leader hailed it as "the day we came of age as a country, the day we took our place among the nations of the world".

He can be forgiven a little hyperbole. Every Taoiseach who calls a referendum lives under the shadow that it might be defeated. A No vote would have damaged his credibility and authority. Perhaps what Varadkar really meant was that this was the day he came of age as a leader, and any quiet satisfaction he might feel at that is entirely forgiveable.

What's less so is suggesting that Ireland was somehow a second-rate, second-tier nation before the vote to repeal the Eighth. That's verging on insulting. Ireland already had a place among the nations of the world. Like Donegal, it didn't need to justify its existence to the neighbours, or apologise for any national character particularities.

Leo's words smack of cultural cringe. If that's what he felt when he thought about Ireland before last weekend, then it says more about him than it does about the country.

Was all this just about making sure he didn't have to feel embarrassed next time he meets Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau or French President Emmanuel Macron, both leaders who've made a habit of using social justice campaigns as projections of their own egos?

It was telling that he ended his short speech to the media after the referendum by reading lines from "one of my favourite poets", Maya Angelou. Quoting Angelou, who recited a poem at the inauguration of President Clinton and was awarded the Medal of Honour by Obama, is just shorthand to signify that one is enlightened enough to join the club.

In his first speech to the Dail as Taoiseach, Varadkar performed the same box-ticking exercise by quoting Seamus Heaney. These gestures are every bit as cringeworthy as his gushing about Love, Actually when he visited Downing Street for the first time, though, unlike on that occasion, he tends to get away with the poetic cliches. It would be reassuring if political leaders actually listened to what those poets they're name-dropping have actually said, instead of just using them as props. Visiting Belfast for the first time as Taoiseach, Leo quoted another poet (spotting a pattern yet?).

That day, it was John Hewitt, whose multi-layered sense of identity, as an Ulsterman, Irishman, Britisher and European, was adopted by the Taoiseach as a template for future peaceful co-existence.

But the same must go for the spectrum of identities within the Republic itself. Social conservatives and No voters and Catholics are every bit as much a part of who we are as a nation.

It's easy to declare that "real unity comes from respecting different traditions and values, not by trying to obliterate them" when talking about Northern Ireland. Practising that creed closer to home would make a far greater contribution to the civility of public discourse than implying that No voters were the ones holding the country back from taking its place among the international community.

It's that rhetoric which makes those who won the abortion vote feel justified in demanding silence from the minority they failed to convince.Rex Ryan as Hamlet (right) and Killian Coyle as Horatio in AC Productions staging of William Shakespeare's play.

Rex Ryan says his parents got him into acting because he was a hyperactive kid with too much energy. Photo Damien Eagers

Rex pictured with his mum Morah and clan Elliott, Babette, Bonnie and Lottie

Gerry Ryan's eldest son Rex married his girlfriend Migle Jasiene earlier this week in a low-key ceremony in Dublin, one year after the couple began dating.

The pair tied the knot in a registry office in Dublin city on Thursday, as Rex's mum Morah watched with pride.

Actor Rex (29) and Migle arrived at the registry office on Lower Grand Canal street shortly before 3pm for the quiet event which was attended by only two other adults.

Migle works at Glass Mask Theatre, of which Rex is director. And the stunning Lithuanian native changed her surname to Ryan after the nuptials celebration.

The couple share an apartment in Dublin city centre, and Migle has a young daughter from a previous relationship.

Morah told the Sunday World that her lips were sealed about the low-key event.

"I don't want to talk about Alex's (Rex's) wedding."

The pair celebrated their nuptials in Rex's father Gerry's favourite restaurant Shanahan's on the Green.

And later they enjoyed a meal in the exclusive Michelin restaurant Patrick Gilbaud on Merrion Street.A police officer with a gun stands in front of Berlin Cathedral (Michael Sohn/AP)

Berlin police have shot and wounded a 53-year-old Austrian man who allegedly waved a knife inside a cathedral in the centre of the German capital.

There was no indication the mans actions were linked to terrorism, Berlin police spokesman Winfrid Wenzel said.

The dpa news agency quoted police as saying the man appeared to be confused.

Mr Wenzel said the incident began when the man entered the Berliner Dom and waved a knife in the area of the altar.

Cathedral employees called police and dozens of people were evacuated from the holy site.

One of the two officers responding to the call opened fire, wounding the man, Mr Wenzel said.

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The second officer was inadvertently wounded by the shot or shots fired by his colleague, Berlin police said.

Both the suspect and the police officer were taken to hospital. Dpa said the officer is in serious condition.

The area around the cathedral is typically crowded with tourists and visitors, particularly on Sunday. A Sunday evening prayer service at the church was cancelled.Beijing has warned Washington that any deals they produce will not take effect if President Donald Trumps threatened tariff hike on Chinese goods goes ahead.

The warning was issued one hour after delegations led by US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Chinas top economic official, Vice Premier Liu He, wrapped up a meeting on Beijings pledge to narrow its trade surplus.

Mr Ross said at the opening of the meeting the two sides had discussed specific American exports Chinese might purchase, but neither side disclosed details of the talks.

The White House threw the status of the meeting into doubt on Tuesday by renewing a threat to hike tariffs on $50 billion (37 billion) of Chinese high-tech goods in response to American complaints Beijing steals or pressures foreign companies to hand over technology.

The meeting went ahead despite that, but Beijing said it reserved the right to retaliate.

The Chinese statement said the two sides achieved positive and concrete progress on Sunday.

But it said the process should be based on the premise the two sides would not fight a trade war.

If the United States introduces trade sanctions including a tariff increase, all the economic and trade achievements negotiated by the two parties will not take effect, said the statement, carried by the official Xinhua News Agency.

President Trump is pressing Beijing to narrow its politically volatile trade surplus with the United States, which reached a record $375.2 billion (281 billion) last year.

Following a Chinese promise on May 19 to buy more American goods following the latest round of talks, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the dispute was on hold and the tariff hike would be postponed.

That truce appeared to end with Tuesdays surprise announcement, which also said the White House will impose curbs on Chinese investment and purchases of US high-tech goods and on visas for Chinese students.China will not step up its purchases of US products if President Donald Trump goes ahead with his threat to tax billions of dollars worth of Chinese imports, the country said on Sunday.

White House advisers have insisted on fundamental changes in ties between the worlds two biggest economic powers.

Chinas warning came after delegations led by US commerce secretary Wilbur Ross and Chinas top economic official, vice premier Liu He, wrapped up a meeting on Beijings pledge to narrow its trade surplus.

Ross said at the start of the event they had discussed specific American exports China might purchase, but the talks ended with no joint statement and neither side released details.

Both sides appear to have hardened their negotiating stances and are waiting for the other side to blink, said Eswar Prasad, professor of trade policy at Cornell University.

Despite the potential negative repercussions for both economies, the risk of a full-blown China-US trade war, with tariffs and other trade sanctions being imposed by both sides, has risen significantly.

Peter Navarro, director of the White House National Trade Council, was asked on Foxs Sunday Morning Futures if the US was willing to throw away its relationship with China by proceeding with threatened tariff hikes.

He pointed in part to an unfair relationship involving a multi-billion dollar trade deficit, Defence Secretary Jim Mattis warning of Chinas activities in the South China Sea and the threat of China stealing US intellectual property.

Thats a relationship with China that structurally has to change, he said.

We would love to have a peaceful, friendly relationship with China. But were also standing firm that the president is the leader on this.

The United States has threatened to impose tariffs on up to 50 billion dollars (37 billion) of Chinese products in a dispute over Beijings aggressive tactics to challenge US technological dominance.

Trump has asked US trade representative Robert Lighthizer to look for another 100 billion dollars in Chinese products to tax.

China has targeted 50 billion dollars in US products in retaliation.

If the United States introduces trade sanctions including a tariff increase, all the economic and trade achievements negotiated by the two parties will not take effect, said a Chinese government statement, carried by the official Xinhua News Agency.

The negotiating process should be based on the premise of not fighting a trade war, the statement said.

The dispute with China comes at the same time Trump has riled some of Americas closest allies with the imposition of tariffs on steel and aluminium imports.Pedro Sanchez yesterday became the first Spanish prime minister to be sworn in without a bible or a crucifix on the table before him.

But the new prime minister had been barely sworn in before one of the country's most critical issues facing his fragile government was pressed upon him - ending the Catalan secession crisis.

Less than two hours after Sanchez had taken his oath to uphold the Spanish Constitution, Catalan chief Quim Torra demanded to meet with Sanchez and speak "government to government" regarding the future of the restive northeastern region.

"Pedro Sanchez, let us talk, take risks, both you and I, let us sit down at a table and talk, government to government," Torra said after swearing in his Cabinet in Barcelona.

Torra, who was chosen by separatist lawmakers to lead the region last month, said that his government "accepts the charge to continue forward with the mandate to form an independent state".

Sanchez, the leader of Spain's Socialist Party, came to power after he successfully ousted predecessor Mariano Rajoy, who lost a no-confidence vote in parliament on Friday.

In order to cobble together the support to cast out Rajoy, Sanchez promised to open talks with Torra in order to get the votes he needed from the Catalan pro-secession lawmakers in the national parliament.

Sanchez said on Thursday that one of the priorities of his government would be "rebuilding bridges" with regions and "establishing the foundations that allow us to normalise relations and start a dialogue between the Spanish government and the new government in Catalonia".

Sanchez, however, insisted that any solutions for Catalonia must fit within the constitutional framework. Spain's Constitution calls the nation "indivisible" and says national sovereignty resides in the Madrid-based parliament.

Sanchez had been Rajoy's most loyal backer of a government takeover of Catalonia's regional affairs following an illegal - and unsuccessful - declaration of independence by the region's parliament in October.

That takeover came to an end yesterday after Torra formed his government, as stipulated by the Senate when it granted the central government the extraordinary powers to intervene in the running of the region.

Torra's 13 regional ministers took oaths of allegiance to Catalonia while omitting the traditional oath of allegiance to the Spanish Constitution.

Torra is a fervent Catalan nationalist and was hand picked by former Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont to succeed him. Puigdemont is fighting extradition from Germany to Spain where he is sought on charges of rebellion and misuse of public funds.

Torra's prior statements in articles and social media posts deriding Spaniards have been called xenophobic by critics. Torra has recently apologised for those views.

Sanchez himself called Torra "the Spanish Le Pen" in aligning him with the most extreme elements of the European far-right.

Sanchez not only inherits Spain's worst political crisis in nearly four decades. His government will depend on the support of the far-left Podemos (We Can) party and of a motley crew of regional parties and Catalan secessionists to get anything done in government.

Spain's parliament voted on Friday to replace Rajoy's government with one to be led by Sanchez - the no confidence vote coming a week after a ruling by the National Court delivered hefty prison sentences to 29 business people and ex-members of Rajoy's Popular Party, including some elected officials, for fraud, money laundering and tax evasion, among other crimes.

Rajoy was in attendance at yesterday's ceremony held in the royal Zarzuela Palace and shook Sanchez's hand after the new leader was sworn in by King Felipe VI. The two political rivals then posed for a photo with the monarch.

Sanchez has vowed to fight corruption and help those Spaniards affected by years of public spending cuts under Rajoy's government. He also pledged to hold an election soon, while not setting a date.

Unlike the new government in Italy, Sanchez and his party are staunch supporters of the European Union and also of the Euro currency.

Associated PressUS President Donald Trump, Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis, and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen Joseph Dunford, display their feelings at Arlington National Cemetery last week. Photo: AP/Evan Vucci

The age of Trump began with a clarion call to make America "great again". Greatness was defined, insofar as there was any definition, as a combination of economic strength and sufficient military might to smite any enemies while avoiding messy foreign entanglements.

It was not a political philosophy but a muddle of impulses, instincts and prejudices, some with very deep roots in the history of the Republic. The difference is that now the politics of America first - and often alone - are pulsing out of the Oval Office.

Isolationist instincts of one sort or another have fizzed and buzzed through American political thought since the foundation of the nation. In the words of George Washington: "Europe has a set of primary interests, which to us have none, or a very remote relation."

The difference was that these days the politics of America first and alone appear to have taken over the Oval Office.

That would be frightening if Trump was an ideologue. Or if he was entirely stupid.

Despite the reported words of former cabinet members, he is neither a 'moron' nor an 'idiot', though doubtless he gave them moments of frustration when such phrases must have sprung easily from their lips.

Trump knows that absolute isolationism is not possible now any more than it was when Fr Charles Coughlin and his fanatical supporters campaigned to keep America out of World War II.

What he envisages is a world in which American power is not only pre-eminent but armoured in bellicosity. There is no Trump doctrine to be embedded; there is a Trump brand to be promoted. If there are going to be big deals, he wants them to be his deals.

International treaties - like his proposed North Korea plan - are like massive real-estate deals. A nuclear-free Korean peninsula is the political equivalent of dozens of Trump towers. This excites the President. It gives him focus.

In order to achieve his aims he is willing to be a political wrecking ball. In the world of Trump, international treaties and long-standing alliances are made to be broken. History, memory are meaningless in the fizzing world of the deal.

At least part of his muscularity in foreign policy is based on a conviction - shared by many on the American right - that America has offered protection to the Europeans too cheaply for too long. Anyway Europeans and the rest of the liberal west may whine about climate change and the Iran deal, but what can they do to stop him?

A significant matter of jobs may be about to force a more resolute reaction from the western allies. More than abandoning the Paris Climate Change Accord or the Iran Nuclear Deal, the imposition of trade tariffs this week on Europe, Canada and Mexico by the President risks a generational rift between the United States and those who have traditionally shared its values and broad security aims.

Even Britain, normally so cautious in its criticism of the White House, condemned the proposals as "patently absurd". The Trade Secretary, Dr Liam Fox, warned of the danger of ending up "in a tit-for-tat trade dispute with our closest allies".

Economic wars are notoriously dangerous weapons of international politics. Dangerous to those who first wield the weapon as well as to those on the receiving end.

Consider our own unhappy experience during the 1930s when Britain imposed 20pc tariffs on Irish goods in the dispute with de Valera over the payment of land annuities.

These were the loans given to Irish farmers under colonial rule to enable them to buy land from the landlords. Dev refused to pay on the basis that Irish farmers should not have to pay for land taken under conquest by the English centuries before. But the economic costs were immense, deepening unemployment with many tens of thousands across the water to England for work.

According to the respected think-tank the Trade Partnership, up to half a million American jobs could be lost through retaliatory sanctions by the EU, Canada and Mexico. Eighteen jobs lost for every one gained. The President will dismiss this and continue to promise American greatness even as senior Republicans in Congress warn loudly of the dangers. This is the kind of stuff that bothers them: lost jobs mean lost congressional seats with the mid-term elections already looking bleak for the GOP.

As with North Korea, the President is betting on a big win. In his blunt way Trump is asking if the US really needs any so called 'special relationships' with anybody?

He correctly reckons that security cooperation benefits the Europeans and Canadians as much as America. They will not risk that by withdrawing from cooperation in a fury over tariffs.

America's traditional allies are floundering. Europe can talk and even act tough on tariffs, but the EU has plenty of troubles of its own, even if the Italian political crisis has been averted for now. The Eurozone crisis and Brexit expose the deep strains within a union that lacks economic and political coherence.

The more sanguine America watchers in London, Brussels and Ottawa still believe that Trump is a blip. They console themselves with hopes of an impeachment, even summoning enthusiasm for a Mike Pence presidency. He's very right of centre yes, they say, but a rationalist, a man of the old political establishment.

I wouldn't be so sure. About the departure of Trump any time soon, about the foreign policy rationalism of Mike Pence, or the idea that the politics of the present are an unreflective spasm of anger that will in good time burn out.

We need to be willing to imagine that Trump will get his North Korea deal, that he achieves at least a draw on tariffs and that the special prosecutor, Robert Mueller, doesn't find the smoking gun in the Russia investigation that would provide grounds for impeachment.

The latest boost in employment figures will give the President confidence to forge ahead.

The possibility of a two-term Trump followed by President Pence may induce despair among America's old allies. But it is a scenario worth preparing for.

Fergal Keane is a BBC Special CorrespondentAlan Bean, who died last Saturday aged 86, was the fourth of the 12 Americans to walk on the Moon; four years later he commanded the three-man crew who spent 59 days aboard Nasa's Skylab space station, which preceded the International Space Station. He spent his post-astronaut life as a professional painter, recording his experiences and describing himself as "the first artist to walk on another world".

Bean was the lunar module pilot on Apollo 12, the second Nasa mission to the Moon in November 1969, only four months after the historic first landing by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on Apollo 11. The launch of Apollo 12 was the only one witnessed in person by a US president. Richard Nixon attended with his wife and daughter - which was probably why the launch went ahead during a thunderstorm. Lightning struck the Saturn V rocket and its spacecraft twice, but while debating whether to abort the launch, the crew recovered control.

Bean's role in salvaging the mission was crucial. When Mission Control radioed up an obscure command to reset the stricken electrical system - "Try SCE to Aux" - his friend and commander, Pete Conrad, was at a loss for what to do, staring at a bewildering array of flashing emergency lights.

Bean, trawling the memories of his meticulous training, leaned forward and calmly flicked the correct switch.

Apollo 12's most remarkable achievement was that, after a 240,000-mile journey from Earth, the spacecraft landed only 200 yards from its target, the unmanned Surveyor 3 spacecraft that had been soft-landed in the Moon's Ocean of Storms on a reconnaissance mission 31 months earlier. Bean, photographed by Conrad, walked across to it and recovered the television camera and other components so that the long-term effects of exposure in harsh lunar conditions could be studied back on Earth.

While the crew of Apollo 11 had spent less than three hours on the lunar surface, Bean and Conrad spent nearly eight hours exploring the Ocean of Storms. They deployed a package of six scientific instruments with a nuclear-powered battery which, with other instruments deployed on four subsequent missions, made it possible to send back details of moonquakes and other events for a further five years until they were finally abandoned by Nasa for reasons of economy.

Nevertheless, there were some setbacks. Premium advertising had been booked on American television networks for insertion during the first colour transmissions from the lunar surface. But these were abruptly ended when Bean, asked to move the TV camera to a better position during one of the astronauts' two excursions on the surface, accidentally pointed it at the Sun.

As a member of the MacBean Clan of Inverness-shire, Bean was proud of his Scottish ancestry and carried a swatch of MacBean tartan to the lunar surface inside his landing craft, Intrepid. He would depict the euphoric moment of his first steps on the lunar surface in his 1996 painting Clan MacBean Arrives on the Moon. Bean also made a point of indulging in his love of Italian food while in space, humorously insisting that he was the first person to eat spaghetti on the Moon.

With the third crew member, Captain Richard Gordon, whose job was to remain in lunar orbit in the command module to bring them home again, the Apollo 12 team formed such a united and articulate trio that many thought that Nasa would have been better served if they had made the first landing.

Alan LaVern Bean was born at Wheeler, in the Texas panhandle, on March 15, 1932. He was brought up in Louisiana, where his father was a US government scientist, and attended the RL Paschal High School in Fort Worth. After graduating in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Texas in 1955, he joined the US navy as a student.

During training as a test pilot one of his instructors was Charles "Pete" Conrad; both were selected respectively for the second and third group of astronauts.

While Conrad progressed rapidly in the highly competitive selection process for space missions, the artistically inclined Bean seemed destined to be nothing more than a backup astronaut. But when a member of Conrad's Moon-landing crew was killed in a fighter-jet crash, Conrad insisted that Bean, his former pupil, should be the replacement for Apollo 12.

In 1972, Bean was given command of the second manned mission to the Skylab space station, created from the vast interior of a Saturn rocket's 90-ton upper stage. Skylab suffered severe damage during the launch, but Conrad, who commanded the whole project, restored it to serviceability with some heroic spacewalks that involved physically pulling out the one remaining solar wing.

After Conrad's return to Earth, Bean's crew spent a record 59 days on board, attending to further repairs and using Skylab's telescope to study solar flares. He was accompanied by two spiders, Anita and Arabella, which attracted much media attention by successfully spinning a somewhat misshapen web in the weightless conditions. Although Bean and his crew fed the arthropods with dead flies, they died before returning to Earth. Nasa claimed that Bean's crew accomplished "150pc" of their pre-launch targets.

Bean next served as backup commander of Apollo-Soyuz in 1975, the first Soviet-American docking in space, before resigning from Nasa in June 1981. He announced that, having seen sights that no artist had witnessed before, he would devote himself to trying to express them in his paintings.

For the next 35 years he produced an average of five or six acrylic paintings a year, in which he sought to express astronauts' reactions to space flight. It was years before he was satisfied with his most important work, a self-portrait in a spacesuit, submerged in dust called That's How It Felt to Walk On The Moon, trying to decide how much colour the human imagination added to the neutral whites and greys of a Nasa photograph. He sold signed copies of this and other works on the internet for up to $2,000 a time.

Incorporated in the originals of many of his lunar landscapes were specks of Moon dust recovered from his Apollo 12 spacesuit.

As an international lecturer and exponent of manned space flight, Bean was among the most successful of the post-mission astronauts, commanding full houses when he visited Britain in 2006 and 2013.

He was also one of the most approachable of the lunar astronauts, a humble and modest man who, unusually among test pilots, admitted to experiencing fear in space.

Counting down their final hours and minutes on the lunar surface in the cabin of their small craft, Bean could not help nervously thinking of the single engine at his back that was their only way home.

But it fired flawlessly, right on time, and propelled him and Conrad back to their colleague, Gordon, who was waiting in lunar orbit to transport them on the three-day voyage back to Earth.

Upon his safe return, Bean relished the simplest of earthly pleasures - sitting on his own in Houston's huge Galleria mall, eating ice cream and watching the passers-by, marvelling at the mundane miracle of human existence.

"Don't look for heaven elsewhere," he said. "I've seen the Earth as a ball in the empty black sky. This is heaven." He firmly believed that one day a painting of his would hang in a gallery on the Moon.

Alan Bean's first marriage to Sue Ragsdale, a schoolteacher, was dissolved in 1977. He married secondly Leslie Clem, a medical executive with whom he settled in Houston, Texas; there he had his art studio and kept their boisterous Lhasa Apso dogs.

She survives him with a son and a daughter from his first marriage.

 Telegraph

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021]Matteo Salvini arrives to visits to a so-called hot spot in the Sicilian port of Pozzallo (Andrea Scarfo/ANSA via AP)

The two pillars of Italys first populist government have been campaigning in Sicily, days after taking office.

Matteo Salvini and Luigi Di Maio, the leaders of the right-wing League and Eurosceptic 5-Star Movement, respectively, were in Sicily on Sunday, a week before council elections on the island region.

They want to capitalise on the momentum of their coalition taking national office on Friday.

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However, with each man emphasising different priorities, there are doubts if the new government will last a full five-year term.

The 5-Star Movement is parliaments largest party thanks to support from southern Italy, where voters in the March election liked Di Maios promise of a minimum income for the unemployed.

The north-based League stokes fears about migrants, who have arrived in huge numbers in Sicily. Salvini vows to expel them.

He dismissed logistical challenges and costs.

Its too costly to keep them in Italy, in hotels, Salvini said. The money would be better spent building a future for them in their home countries.

Many of the Leagues voters associate migrants with crime. Salvini said holding centres for those awaiting deportation would be built so they wont leave from morning till night.

Sicilians in general have shown patience in dealing with the arrival of hundreds of thousands of newcomers. Some islanders angrily rejected the anti-migrant rhetoric.

They protested during Salvinis visit to a so-called hot spot in the Sicilian port of Pozzallo, where many of the ships that rescue migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea in smugglers boats dock.

Holding a banner reading Refugees welcome, the protesters shouted Salvini, go home! and Salvini, shame on you.

Pozzallo mayor Roberto Ammatuna disputed Salvinis claim that the island had become a refugee camp of Europe.

The mayor retorted: Here there are beaches full, and tourists.Japanese astronaut Norishige Kanai comes out of the capsule (Dmitry Lovetsky/AP)

A Russian Soyuz space capsule carrying three astronauts from the International Space Station has landed in the steppes of Kazakhstan.

The capsule landed at 6:39pm local time on Sunday without apparent problems, descending under a red-and-white parachute.

On board were Russian Anton Shkaplerov, American Scott Tingle and Japans Norishige Kanai, ending a 168-day mission.

The orbiting laboratory now has a crew of three  Americans Drew Feustel and Ricky Arnold and Russian Oleg Artemyev.

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Another three astronauts are to be launched to the station on Wednesday.Hundreds of people go to bed on an empty stomach each night in our country, and all of this can be avoided if just a handful of us pledge to help them. Tonnes of food from hotels, marriages, parties, and events is wasted every day because it's in excess. All of this food can provide for so many families - some of whom can barely afford one meal a day.

Unfortunately, its mostly all talk and no work, except for a couple of handful of people and establishments across the country who are working for the welfare of the needy.

The Robin Hood Army, started by a bunch of young professionals with full-time jobs, takes unserved food from restaurants/ hotels/ parties to the hungry. Founder Neel Ghose was inspired by the Re-Food initiative in Portugal and decided he needed to bring it home.

"We aim to counter both malnutrition and food waste," says Apurva Mishra, one of the team members. In two years, the Robin Hood Army has swelled to roughly 4,000 volunteers across 30 cities and four countries and serves 10 to 15,000 meals a week.

This roti bank outside citys hospital in Bangalore is a programme managed by a group of 25 volunteers ensuring that patients, relatives, family and friends of those at the hospital - especially who cannot afford food for themselves - don't go hungry.

42-year-old Pasha had a rather poignant encounter with the father of a deceased child. The man hadn't eaten all day and was saving money for his child's treatment. Upon knowing his situation, Fayaz was moved. This led to the birth of Doh Roti.





Meet Anoop Khanna, the mastermind behind 'Dadi Ki Rasoi' -- a goodwill venture that gives food and clothes to the needy at subsidised rates at Rs 5 and Rs 10, respectively. Everything that's cooked here at Dadi Ki Rasoi is made in desi ghee. In fact, if you're expecting him to offer boring food, don't because from fruits to sweets, Anoop brings every delicacy in the menu.





In December 2015, the Mumbai Dabbawala Association (MDA) came up with a plan to feed the destitute, needy and homeless people of the city. This initiative gave birth to the 'Roti Bank' - an association that collects leftover food from functions and distributes it among the poor. Since its advent, their waste management drive has saved Rs 40 lakh worth of food from getting wasted.

Food isnt the only basic necessity that the destitute crave. That said after a successful tryst with the Roti Bank, a charity organisation in Aurangabad has come up with a novel idea to provide the dress for the needy.

Launched by Haron Mukati Islamic Centre (HMIC), the idea was initiated after watching the condition of people who came to take food at the Roti Bank. "In fact, I saw many people, especially elders and children, shivering in the biting cold as they were wearing torn or insufficient clothes. This gave me an idea to do something about the problem," HMIC founder Yusuf Mukati said.

Now that the culture of Roti Bank is prevalent in India, know that it all started with this one in Mahoba, one of Bundelkhand's most backward districts. The members of this bank went from door to door to feed people. Now with an even bigger team, the bank in its initial days was managed by 40 youngsters and 5 elders, who gave home-cooked rotis and vegetables to the needy every day.

7 Mobile Langar

Back in 2016, Atul Khatri, one of India's most successful Stand Up Comedians spotted a mobile langar outside Amritsar Airport. At first, he couldnt fathom the presence of a 'hawker' inside a security zone, but upon reaching the person, he found out that its a "mobile langar" from a nearby Gurudwara.

The man carries food on a cycle and goes around giving free food to security people, taxi drivers and anyone else who is hungry.





Venkateshwara Service Station near Indiranagar RTO on Old Madras Road has brought in its A game and vowed to serve all-day meals to anyone and everyone who comes there to get petrol. In collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), VSS has volunteered to serve meals to everyone who skips meals because they want to make it to work on time.

This petrol pump offers free food while you refuel | https://t.co/hf9ymN7Ome pic.twitter.com/yMEP3l9JGB  Bangalore Mirror (@BangaloreMirror) September 4, 2017

Chennai based 'community fridge' is ending hunger by having donations by over 100 people. Ayyamittu Unn, which opened last month is helping the destitute and needy. Almost anyone can come, open the gate and pick whatever they want, without having to ask or beg for food.





'Raj Roti Centre in Matunga has now become a renowned name in the city for providing packets of food to poor people. Managed by a group of women in Mumbai, who have taken the onus on themselves, this centre is now feeding as many people as they can, at a meagre amount of Rs 10.

'Shree Raj Roti Centre is a subsidised food service program which provides a healthy and nutritional meal to the working poor and needy at a token amount of Rs 10/- per meal.'' reads their website.

An NGO based out of New Delhi is collecting newspapers and selling them to paper companies and using all the money earned to serve the families of patients and patients themselves at AIIMS, New Delhi.

They conduct their free-food drive on Wednesdays and Fridays, between 11 am and 1.30 pm.A WhatsApp group named Delhi Trisomy 21 managed by Ranjan Sharma, 50, a professional photographer, is no less than a beacon of hope for parents, whose children are diagnosed with Down Syndrome. Ranjans hands remain in continuous motion to put an end to all the doubts aired by parents in that whats app group. It was after Ranjans 14-year-old daughter, Vilina, was diagnosed with down syndrome way back in 2003, when he resolved to help other parents.

Down Syndrome also known as Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition marked by an extra copy of chromosome 21. This chromosomal condition is associated with intellectual disability, a characteristic facial appearance, and a weak muscle tone (hypotonia), says Dr I.C Verma, a genetic medicine specialist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi.

After this news broke out to us, my wife went into the state of depression, says Ranjan.

The couple was dismayed when the doctor broke into a statement: Dont expect much from a child, she will remain in a vegetative state.

Amid the pall of gloom hovering over them, Ranjan was resolute in finding a way out and says, We searched a lot about this disorder and got in touch with many experts based abroad, who unlike many of Indian doctors, who just fire in the air, added Ranjan.

Drawing out the conclusion from his experience, Ranjan went on to add: Medical fraternity gives all the wrong information about this disorder, they paint a very gloomy picture .

After 14 years of bumpy and yet enjoyable journey, the couple has successfully managed to smash the string of misconception pertaining to this disorder.

There are very few doctors who know the intricacies related to Down syndrome, said Dr I C Verma. Throwing light on unawareness among doctors Dr Verma further added: Pediatricians propagate false conception about this genetic disorder transcending all boundaries of absurdity when they ask parents to have no expectation from the child and declare her mentally retarded.

Verma inferring from his extensive experience dealing with Down Syndrome said, If proper care is given then the child can lead a normal life, but it is wrong to say that these kids cant attain much in life.

Talking about possible reasons for this disorder he said, Probability of having a child with down syndrome is higher in women conceiving at high age, say above 35. Thats why Arab countries are home to huge Down Syndrome patients because they keep on having children till the fag end of their life.

Telling their peculiar story, Kavita Baluni and her husband Himanshu Kakatwan, a software professional, said, Having a biological child was never on our mind, but giving home to one was always. At that time we made a resolution to adopt a baby girl with Down syndrome in India.

The journey of the duo in finding the 15-month-baby, Veda, with down syndrome was not less than a fortunate stroke. When Kavita and Himanshu started visiting hospitals frequently for Vedas treatment they had to grapple with the same set of problems all parents in India have to confront with.

Kavita, while summing up her troublesome experience with doctors said, We took Veda to a hospital where well-known doctors after checking her thyroid level told us to take her home as everything was normal.

The couple, feeling anguished about the ignorance of doctors, says, All doctors failed miserably in figuring this out that this level of thyroid is leading to aggravating problem, it was after becoming part of that whats app group that took us out from the web of apprehensions and apprised us that Thyroid level falling in normal bracket is abnormal for a child diagnosed with Down Syndrome.

My daughter Babbli was diagnosed with Down Syndrome in 1981. After realizing that even doctors miserably failed in analysing the underlying problem, I took it as a challenge and went on to earn PhD in psychology," says Dr Rekha Ramchandran, Co-founder of Down Syndrome Federation of India, the only organisation in entire South-East Asia catering specifically for Down syndrome disorder.

Summing up her experience with medical fraternity she says, "Whenever there is low thyroid level in a child one should take her to proper endocrinologist , but in India they have their own set of limitations as the lack of study and research by them make it obvious on their part to come up with false information.

Discrimination High in the Spotlight

Seven-year-old, Dron Garg, diagnosed with Down syndrome is studying in Spring Dales Public School, Pusa Road, New Delhi, this could seem as an ordinary instance, but an extraordinary legal battle fought by his mother Dr Amita Singhal, 41, a cardiologist, to get him admitted in school is commendable.

It was in the year 2014 when I was running from school to school for nursery admission of my son with Down syndrome, I noticed that all Child With Special Needs (CWSN) Categories were clubbed with Economically Weaker Section (EWS) under a blanket category," said Dr Amita. But the legal victory for Dr Amita did not come easily. She had to resort to the legal way. And after filing a PIL in Delhi High Court. She got court ruling in her favour directing 3% separate reservation for CWSN even in private unaided schools.

But, her ordeal didnt end there. Amita subjected to the numerous problems associated with nurturing a child with special needs she adds: As a society we have miserably failed in accepting these children as normal, thats why we had to stride on the way full of thorns to get our child admitted in school, that reflects the narrow outlook of society towards these children.

It was in 1976, when my second child was born and after two days, we got to know that he is diagnosed with Down syndrome, at that time when awareness about this disorder was quite pathetic inspired me to take lead and do something in this direction, says Dr Shanti Auluck, a psychologist and Chairperson of Muskaan, an adult training centre for people with intellectual disability.

Dr Auluck, countering the ridicules made by society about the intelligence of these children, Auluck says, Intelligence is of many kinds, these children are full of concrete intelligence making them quick on the uptake. At Muskaan, we are providing vocational training to these children, and they are doing exceptionally brilliant in this.

To quell this stark discrimination prevalent in society only a handful of organisations are doing work at ground level, the government is just doing work, that confines to the registers and never transpires into reality.North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's choice of lodging for the upcoming summit with US president Donald Trump is The Fullerton's 'The President Suite' which is likely to cost the Singapore government USD 6,000 a night, the Washington Post said.

The hotel, however, declined to provide the room charge for the presidential suite. Kim Chang Son, the de facto chief of staff for the North Korean government was seen this week at The Fullerton, a hotel in Singapore. Media reports said he was in Singapore to meet US officials to work out logistics for the summit.

The Fullerton was North Korea's lodging of choice, the Washington Post said. The presidential suite may set the government back by at least 8,000 Singapore dollars ($6,000) a night, it said.

Among the potential venues mentioned as the site of the summit include the Shangri-la Hotel, which hosted Indian Prime Minister and defence chiefs from around the world this weekend, and the Capella hotel on the resort island of Sentosa. The 348-square meter Shangri-la Suite in the Valley Wing of the Shangri-la was priced at S$10,000 for the June 12 night.

However, there has been no confirmation of the meeting between two leaders as Singapore has other locations as well which provide security good enough for such high-level meeting.

There was no confirmation on the location for the meeting between Kim and Trump although there are a number of sites in Singapore that can guarantee security protection, including hotels that have experience hosting high-security events, local media and a Singapore government official said.

Singapore will bear some of the cost of the planned summit between the US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as Kim Jong Un is short of the logistics. Kim Jong Un has never travelled far from home and Singapore is the farthest the leader of North Korea has come and therefore the logistical challenges which include and Soviet-era aircraft to carry him and his limousine as well as dozens of security people.

Now, Singapore will pay the bills of the hotel and other logistical arrangements as North Korean economy is stripped due to the US sanctions imposed for missile programmes. Singapore, a small but wealthy Southeast Asian city-state, is determined to successfully host the summit and is willing to foot at least some of the bill.

"Obviously yes, but it is a cost that we're willing to bear to play a small part in this historic meeting," defence minister Ng Eng Hen told reporters without elaborating when asked if Singapore will be bearing the cost of the summit, which is scheduled for June 12.

(With inputs from Reuters)Internet's favourite uncle - who trended as #CoolUncle - has won a thousand followers over the last few days. Professor Sanjeev Srivastava, whose dance video at a wedding went viral on social media, is a big fan of Govinda and his killer dance have earned him fans overnight.

vijay tonk/facebook

Also read: Meet Sanjeev, The Famous Dancing Uncle Who Became An Overnight Star After His Video Went Viral!

The video, which was initially shared on WhatsApp, shows the electronics professor dancing at a family function.

Now the uncle has been appointed as the brand ambassador by Vidisha Municipal Corporation in Madhya Pradesh. Further details are awaited but everyone knows that it's his amazing dance moves that landed him this honourable position.

Also read:

Even Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan took to Twitter to praise the professor when he said, "Believe it or not, Madhya Pradesh water has something special in it."

A couple of his other videos also started being shared online.

This uncle kills it everytime with the Govinda moves. So cool! pic.twitter.com/fpaYLWeClU  G dawg (@bootsandchicken) June 2, 2018

Also read: After Her Viral 'Tareefan' Cover, YouTuber Lisa Mishra Bags Her First Bollywood Project!

I think it's time to have his official Twitter handle in place so that we can follow him and enjoy his cool videos. We wonder what Govinda has to say. Clearly, Cool Uncle is giving tough competition to the Bollywood actor!A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) driver has been accused of running over on two protesters in Srinagar on Friday. One youth has been killed and another was injured after being driven over by the vehicle. However, CRPF has defended the driver.

CRPF PRO Sanjay Sharma said that the driver of the vehicle was acting in self defence.

AFP

They (protesters) came very close, some of them even climbed on the vehicle. The protesters were trying to lynch people inside the vehicle and the driver was trying to get out of the situation, he said.

The incident occurred when a group youths who were shouting pro-separatists slogans tried to lead a march from Jamia Masjid area of Nowhatta. When they reached the main chowk they pelted stones on the security forces.

They blocked the road and tried to stop the CRPF bulletproof vehicle and attack the officers.

AP

Some 500 to 600 people gathered around his vehicle when he was checking the deployment of troops in Nowhatta area. The mob tried to take him out of the vehicle and lynch him. Somehow he was protected. Some people even climbed atop his vehicle and damaged it with big rocks, said Sharma.

Two youths, Yonis Ahmad and Kaiser Ahmad were hit by the vehicle and were admitted to the hospital. Kaiser, who was seriously injured died around midnight.

AP

Reacting to the incident, former chief minister Omar Abdullah criticised the state government.

"Earlier they tied people to the fronts of jeeps and paraded them around villages to deter protesters. Now they just drive their jeeps right over protestors. Is this your new SOP @MehboobaMufti sahiba? Ceasefire means no guns so use jeeps," he tweeted.Many Palestinians have been killed in the ongoing strife in Israel. The massacre is such as not long ago, over 50 Palestinians were killed in just one day.

The latest casualty is 21-year-old volunteer paramedic, Razan al-Najjar who was killed as she tried to evacuated the wounded near the border with Israel.

palestine chronicle

The Palestinian Medical Relief Society said that the volunteer was shot as she was attempting to provide first aid to an injured protester." Three other first responders were also hit by live fire on Friday.

Also read: Sobbing Mother Holding The Dead Body Of Her 8-Month-Old Tells The Story Of Gaza War

The same day, the Palestinians' protest entered its 10th week. The military said people hurled grenades and pipe bombs at troops behind the border fence. Nearly 40 Palestinians were wounded and Najjar was the only one killed.

ap

On Saturday, thousands of Palestinians alongside hundreds of medical workers in white uniforms took part in Najjar's funeral procession.

The Khan Younis hospital said Najjar was shot in the chest with an exit wound in the back. Her body was draped in a Palestinian flag. The funeral procession began from the hospital and passed near her home in Khuzaa. She was the eldest of six siblings.

Videos on social media and one captured by Associated Press footage, showed Najjar and other medics walking toward the fence and raising their hands to reach a man lying wounded on the ground. Najjar was seen wearing a dark blue headscarf and a white coat with the logo of the Palestinian Medical Relief Society, where she volunteered.

afp

Also read: As Dozens Of Palestinians Killed In Gaza, International Community Seeks Military Embargo On Israel

According to The Times of Israel, 23-year-old Izzat Shatat, who is a volunteering ambulance worker, said he and Najjar were to announce their engagement at the end of Ramadan. He said he was worried for her and had even asked her not to go to the border area on Friday but she refused.

She helped all people. She has never refused to help. She was the first to run toward anybody when he is shot, he said in tears.

afp

It's a loss among thousands of losses where Najjar will be greatly missed by her family and colleagues. She was killed on the line of duty which inevitably makes her a hero gone too soon.According to Greenpeace, UK, an estimated 12.7 million tonnes of plastic finds its way in our oceans each year. Thats around a truckload of plastic trash a minute.

Can you imagine swallowing plastic? Can you imagine struggling to find food and fresh air but ending up eating plastic and dying instead? Do you really not know where I am going with this?

Not long ago, a sperm whale died on a Spanish beach after eating 29 kg of plastic. And now, a pilot whale has been found dead off southern Thailand with 80 bags of plastic.

afp

Also read: #BeatPlasticPollution: 500 Meters Around Taj Mahal To Be Made Free Of Single Use Plastic By 2020

Thai marine officials said that the whale vomited five plastic bags in a failed attempt by conservationists to save the mammal in a canal in Songkhla province.

afp

Also read: Sperm Whale Found Dead On Spanish Beach, Had 29 Kg Of Plastic In Its Stomach!

The small male pilot whale was discovered as sick and unable to swim in the Na Thap Canal last Monday. Officials said that they used boats to help it float and even erected a sunshade for the mammal. They nursed the whale for an entire week but it later died on Friday afternoon.

It was the bags that weighed around 8kg that made it impossible for the whale to eat food, said a marine expert.

Thailand is one of the biggest users of plastic bags. Its government had said last month that it was considering a levy on them. Well, given the increase in marine deaths, it's time to impose a complete ban on plastic. And not just in Thailand - every country should now put an end to plastic if they want planet earth to survive.About 700,000 Rohingya Muslim refugees have fled to Bangladesh, which is being considered as one of the biggest humanitarian crisis in history. These people who were forced to abandon their homes now live in despicable conditions and are still looking for a stable home.

The United Nations and aid agencies have described the crackdown on the Rohingya as "a textbook example of ethnic cleansing", an accusation Myanmar rejects. However, in what looks like a respite, Myanmar is willing to take back all if they volunteer to return, the country's National Security Adviser Thaung Tun said on Saturday.

afp

He was speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue, a regional security conference in Singapore, where he was asked if the situation in Myanmar's Rakhine state, where most Rohingyas live, could trigger use of the Responsibility to Protect framework of the United Nations.

The so-called R2P framework was adopted at the 2005 U.N. World Summit in which nations agreed to protect their own populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity and accepted a collective responsibility to encourage and help each other uphold this commitment.

"If you can send back 700,000 on a voluntary basis, we are willing to receive them," Thaung Tun said. "Can this be called ethnic cleansing?

"There is no war going on, so it's not war crimes. Crimes against humanity, that could be a consideration, but we need clear evidence. These serious charges should be proved and they should not be bandied about lightly."

reuters

Since August 2017, about 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled a military crackdown in mainly Buddhist Myanmar, many reporting killings, rape and arson on a large scale, UN and other aid organisations have said, reported Reuters.

Myanmar and Bangladesh agreed in January to complete the voluntary repatriation of the refugees within two years. Myanmar signed an agreement with the United Nations on Thursday aimed at eventually allowing the Rohingya sheltering in Bangladesh to return safely and by choice.

Thaung Tun said that the narrative of what happened in Rakhine was "incomplete and misleading". "Myanmar does not deny that what is unfolding in northern Rakhine is a humanitarian crisis," he said. "There is no denying that the Muslim community in Rakhine has suffered. The Buddhist Rakhine, Hindu and other ethnic minorities have suffered no less."Babies are a godsend making their parents extremely proud of them. But sometimes, only one parent welcomes them to the world because the other parent is no longer around.

Such was the case with Britt's newborn baby girl who lost her father when she was six-weeks-old inside her mother's womb.

U.S. Army Specialist Chris Harris was killed last year in August in Afghanistan when a suicide bomber attacked the NATO convoy he was travelling in. He had found out that his wife was expecting their first child just a week before his death.

Also read: Mom Shares Touching Photos Of Her Premature Baby's Goodbye Hug For Her Dying Twin Sister

Their baby was born on March 17, 2018, and was named after her fallen-soldier dad as Christian Michelle Harris.

Since Chris was not around to share his wife's happiness in welcoming their daughter, Britt thought it more than befitting to organise a photoshoot with his Army brothers.

Britt organised a special trip for Chris's Army friends who came home from Afghanistan on the day Christian was born. A special photoshoot was planned for them so that they could meet the baby girl for the first time.

Around 20 men from the 2nd Battalion, 504th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, and 82 Airborne Division, showed up in their military uniforms for the photoshoot.

As the Army brothers held Christian for the photoshoot, the girl wore a cute little onesie that read: "My Daddy, my hero".

One of the breathtaking photos shows the men holding the newborn in the middle of a huddle as she looks up at the camera.

Also read: Dads Of An 18-Day-Old Baby Hand Out Goodie Bags To Co-Passengers On Flight As 'Advance Apology'

In what can only be described as a heart-moving gesture, these photos celebrate both the newborn's life and her father's legacy. More power to her mother, Britt who decided to document such precious moments for her child to cherish forever.Seguin, TX (78155)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. Rainfall will be locally heavy at times. Potential for flooding rains. Low 72F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 100%. 1 to 2 inches of rain expected..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely. Rainfall will be locally heavy at times. Potential for flooding rains. Low 72F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 100%. 1 to 2 inches of rain expected.What Is Equity?

Equity, typically referred to as shareholders' equity (or owners' equity for privately held companies), represents the amount of money that would be returned to a companys shareholders if all of the assets were liquidated and all of the company's debt was paid off in the case of liquidation. In the case of acquisition, it is the value of company sales minus any liabilities owed by the company not transferred with the sale.

In addition, shareholder equity can represent the book value of a company. Equity can sometimes be offered as payment-in-kind. It also represents the pro-rata ownership of a company's shares.

Equity can be found on a company's balance sheet and is one of the most common pieces of data employed by analysts to assess the financial health of a company.

Key Takeaways Equity represents the value that would be returned to a companys shareholders if all of the assets were liquidated and all of the company's debts were paid off.

We can also think of equity as a degree of residual ownership in a firm or asset after subtracting all debts associated with that asset.

Equity represents the shareholders stake in the company, identified on a company's balance sheet.

The calculation of equity is a company's total assets minus its total liabilities, and is used in several key financial ratios such as ROE.

1:02 Equity

Formula and Calculation for Shareholder Equity

The following formula and calculation can be used to determine the equity of a firm, which is derived from the accounting equation:

 Shareholders Equity = Total Assets  Total Liabilities \text{Shareholders' Equity} = \text{Total Assets} - \text{Total Liabilities} Shareholders Equity=Total AssetsTotal Liabilities

This information can be found on the balance sheet, where these four steps should be followed:

Locate the company's total assets on the balance sheet for the period. Locate total liabilities, which should be listed separately on the balance sheet. Subtract total liabilities from total assets to arrive at shareholder equity. Note that total assets will equal the sum of liabilities and total equity.

Shareholder equity can also be expressed as a company's share capital and retained earnings less the value of treasury shares. This method, however, is less common. Though both methods yield the same figure, the use of total assets and total liabilities is more illustrative of a company's financial health.

Understanding Shareholder Equity

By comparing concrete numbers reflecting everything the company owns and everything it owes, the "assets-minus-liabilities" shareholder equity equation paints a clear picture of a company's finances, which can be easily interpreted by investors and analysts. Equity is used as capital raised by a company, which is then used to purchase assets, invest in projects, and fund operations. A firm typically can raise capital by issuing debt (in the form of a loan or via bonds) or equity (by selling stock). Investors typically seek out equity investments as it provides greater opportunity to share in the profits and growth of a firm.

Equity is important because it represents the value of an investors stake in a company, represented by their proportion of the company's shares. Owning stock in a company gives shareholders the potential for capital gains as well as dividends. Owning equity will also give shareholders the right to vote on corporate actions and in any elections for the board of directors. These equity ownership benefits promote shareholders' ongoing interest in the company.

Shareholder equity can be either negative or positive. If positive, the company has enough assets to cover its liabilities. If negative, the company's liabilities exceed its assets; if prolonged, this is considered balance sheet insolvency. Typically, investors view companies with negative shareholder equity as risky or unsafe investments. Shareholder equity alone is not a definitive indicator of a company's financial health; used in conjunction with other tools and metrics, the investor can accurately analyze the health of an organization.

Components of Shareholder Equity

Retained earnings are part of shareholder equity and are the percentage of net earnings that were not paid to shareholders as dividends. Think of retained earnings as savings since it represents a cumulative total of profits that have been saved and put aside or retained for future use. Retained earnings grow larger over time as the company continues to reinvest a portion of its income.

At some point, the amount of accumulated retained earnings can exceed the amount of equity capital contributed by stockholders. Retained earnings are usually the largest component of stockholders equity for companies that have been operating for many years.

Treasury shares or stock (not to be confused with U.S.Treasury bills) represent stock that the company has bought back from existing shareholders. Companies may do a repurchase when management cannot deploy all the available equity capital in ways that might deliver the best returns. Shares bought back by companies become treasury shares, and their dollar value is noted in an account called treasury stock, a contra account to the accounts of investor capital and retained earnings. Companies can reissue treasury shares back to stockholders when companies need to raise money.

Many view stockholders' equity as representing a company's net assetsits net value, so to speak, would be the amount shareholders would receive if the company liquidated all its assets and repaid all its debts.

Example of Shareholder Equity

Using a historical example, below is a portion of Exxon Mobil Corporation's (XOM) balance sheet as of September 30, 2018:

Total assets were $354,628 (highlighted in green).

Total liabilities were $157,797 (1st highlighted red area).

Total equity was $196,831 (2nd highlighted red area).

The accounting equation whereby assets = liabilities + shareholder equity is calculated as follows:

Shareholder equity = $354,628, (total assets) - $157,797 (total liabilities) = $196,831

Image by Sabrina Jiang  Investopedia 2020

Other Forms of Equity

The concept of equity has applications beyond just evaluating companies. We can more generally think of equity as a degree of ownership in any asset after subtracting all debts associated with that asset.

Below are several common variations on equity:

A stock or any other security representing an ownership interest in a company.

On a company's balance sheet, the amount of the funds contributed by the owners or shareholders plus the retained earnings (or losses). One may also call this stockholders' equity or shareholders' equity.

In margin trading, the value of securities in a margin account minus what the account holder borrowed from the brokerage.

In real estate, the difference between the property's current fair market value and the amount the owner still owes on the mortgage. It is the amount that the owner would receive after selling a property and paying any liens. Also referred to as real property value.

When a business goes bankrupt and has to liquidate, equity is the amount of money remaining after the business repays its creditors. This is most often called ownership equity, also known as risk capital or liable capital.

Private Equity

When an investment is publicly traded, the market value of equity is readily available by looking at the company's share price and its market capitalization. For private entitles, the market mechanism does not exist and so other forms of valuation must be done to estimate value.

Private equity generally refers to such an evaluation of companies that are not publicly traded. The accounting equation still applies where stated equity on the balance sheet is what is left over when subtracting liabilities from assets, arriving at an estimate of book value. Privately held companies can then seek investors by selling off shares directly in private placements. These private equity investors can include institutions like pension funds, university endowments, and insurance companies, or accredited individuals.

Private equity is often sold to funds and investors that specialize in direct investments in private companies or that engage in leveraged buyouts (LBOs) of public companies. In an LBO transaction, a company receives a loan from a private equity firm to fund the acquisition of a division of another company. Cash flows or the assets of the company being acquired usually secure the loan. Mezzanine debt is a private loan, usually provided by a commercial bank or a mezzanine venture capital firm. Mezzanine transactions often involve a mix of debt and equity in the form of a subordinated loan or warrants, common stock, or preferred stock.

Private equity comes into play at different points along a company's life cycle. Typically, a young company with no revenue or earnings can't afford to borrow, so it must get capital from friends and family or individual "angel investors." Venture capitalists enter the picture when the company has finally created its product or service and is ready to bring it to market. Some of the largest, most successful corporations in the tech sector, like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Amazonor what is referred to as BigTechs or GAFAMall began with venture capital funding.

Venture capitalists (VCs) provide most private equity financing in return for an early minority stake. Sometimes, a venture capitalist will take a seat on the board of directors for its portfolio companies, ensuring an active role in guiding the company. Venture capitalists look to hit big early on and exit investments within five to seven years. An LBO is one of the most common types of private equity financing and might occur as a company matures.

A final type of private equity is a Private Investment in a Public Company (PIPE). A PIPE is a private investment firm's, a mutual fund's, or another qualified investors' purchase, of stock in a company at a discount to the current market value (CMV) per share, to raise capital.

Unlike shareholder equity, private equity is not accessible for the average individual. Only "accredited" investors, those with a net worth of at least $1 million, can take part in private equity or venture capital partnerships. Such endeavors might require the use of form 4, depending on their scale. For investors who have don't meet this marker, there is the option of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that focus on investing in private companies.

Equity Begins at Home

Home equity is roughly comparable to the value contained in homeownership. The amount of equity one has in their residence represents how much of the home that they own outright by subtracting from it the mortgage debt owed. Equity on a property or home stems from payments made against a mortgage, including a down payment, and from increases in property value.

Home equity is often an individuals greatest source of collateral, and the owner can use it to get a home equity loan, which some call a second mortgage or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Taking money out of a property or borrowing money against it is an equity takeout.

For example, lets say Sam owns a home with a mortgage on it. The house has a current market value of $175,000 and the mortgage owed totals $100,000. Sam has $75,000 worth of equity in the home or $175,000 (asset total) - $100,000 (liability total).

Brand Equity

When determining an asset's equity, particularly for larger corporations, it is important to note these assets may include both tangible assets, like property, and intangible assets, like the companys reputation and brand identity. Through years of advertising and development of a customer base, a companys brand can come to have an inherent value. Some call this value brand equity, which measures the value of a brand relative to a generic or store-brand version of a product.

For example, many soft-drink lovers will reach for a Coke before buying a store-brand cola because they prefer the taste, or are more familiar with the flavor. If a 2-liter bottle of store-brand cola costs $1 and a 2-liter bottle of Coke costs $2, then The Coca-Cola has brand equity of $1.

There is also such a thing as negative brand equity, which is when people will pay more for a generic or store-brand product than they will for a particular brand name. Negative brand equity is rare and can occur because of bad publicity, such as a product recall or a disaster.

Equity vs. Return on Equity

Return on equity (ROE) is a measure of financial performance calculated by dividing net income by shareholder equity. Because shareholder equity is equal to a companys assets minus its debt, ROE could be thought of as the return on net assets. ROE is considered a measure of how effectively management is using a companys assets to create profits.

Equity, as we have seen, has various meanings but usually represents ownership in an asset or a company such as stockholders owning equity in a company. ROE is a financial metric that measures how much profit is generated from a companys shareholder equity.

What exactly is equity? Equity is an important concept in finance that has different specific meanings depending on the context. Perhaps the most common type of equity is shareholders equity," which is calculated by taking a companys total assets and subtracting its total liabilities. Shareholders equity is, therefore, essentially the net worth of a corporation. If the company were to liquidate, shareholders equity is the amount of money that would theoretically be received by its shareholders.

What are some other terms used to describe equity? Other terms that are sometimes used to describe this concept include shareholders equity, book value, and net asset value. Depending on the context, the precise meanings of these terms may differ, but generally speaking, they refer to the value of an investment that would be left over after paying off all of the liabilities associated with that investment. This term is also used in real estate investing to refer to the difference between a propertys fair market value and the outstanding value of its mortgage loan.

How is equity used by investors? Equity is a very important concept for investors. For instance, in looking at a company, an investor might use shareholders equity as a benchmark for determining whether a particular purchase price is expensive. If that company has historically traded at a price to book value of 1.5, for instance, then an investor might think twice before paying more than that valuation unless they feel the companys prospects have fundamentally improved. On the other hand, an investor might feel comfortable buying shares in a relatively weak business as long as the price they pay is sufficiently low relative to its equity.











Update: A man who died following an assault at a pub in Mitchelstown last night has been named locally as Patrick O'Donnell.

The 36-year-old father of four lived in the locality.

Mr O'Donnell died following an incident at Willie Andies Pub at New Square in Mitchelstown at around 11pm last night.

There was an altercation at the premises between Mr O'Donnell and another man. He collapsed after the assault and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A man in his 20s has been arrested and gardai are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.

Patrick O'Donnell. Photo: Provision

Earlier: Gardai make arrest after man dies in assault in Co. Cork

A man has died after being assaulted in Cork last night.

It is understood the incident happened at Willie Andies Pub at New Square in Mitchelstown at around 11pm.

Emergency services attend the scene but the man in his 30s died a short time later.

His body will be taken to Cork University Hospital for a post mortem after the State Pathologist carries out a technical examination.

A Garda on duty outside Willie Andies pub in Mitchelstown, Co. Cork, following the incident. Pic: Denis Minihane

Another man in his 20s has been arrested and taken to Fermoy Garda station where an incident room has been set up.

Gardai are appealing for witnesses, and detectives have also gathered CCTV footage from the pub.

It is believed the venue was quite busy at the time as a local festival was taking place in New Market Square.

Gardai on duty outside Willie Andies pub in Mitchelstown, Co. Cork, following the incident. Pic: Michael MacSweeney/Provision

An incident room has been set up at Fermoy garda station and gardai are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 025-821-00. "Equal Protection Under the Carceral State" | Main | Justice Sotomayor delivers lengthy dissent from denial of cert in Texas capital case concerning ineffective assistance of counsel 

June 3, 2018

Lots worth reading on eve of historic recall vote of Califorinia Judge Aaron Persky after his lenient treatment of Brock Turner

Regular readers surely already know a lot of the story and backstory surrounding the controversial sentencing of Brock Turner and the controversial recall campaign against the judge who sentenced him. That recall campaign culminates in a vote this coming Tuesday, and that has prompted another notable round of media coverage. Here are some recent media pieces with varying degrees of depth:

From CNN here, "Will voters bench the judge who gave a 6-month sentence in the Stanford sexual assault case?" From the Los Angeles Times here, "Vandalism, threats, broken friendships: The heated campaign to recall judge in Brock Turner case" From Vox here, "Brock Turner was sentenced to 6 months in jail for sexual assault. Now voters may recall the judge." From HuffPost here, "When the Punishment Feels Like A Crime: Brock Turner's twisted legacy  and a Stanford professor's relentless pursuit of justice."

I would especially encourage readers to find the time to read the lengthy HuffPost piece, which is particularly focused around Stanford Law Professor Michele Dauber's work on the recall campaign. The reporting in the piece stuck me as particularly thoughtful and balanced, and I learned new things big and small about the campaign and her efforts and goals.

Despite all this new reporting, I must note my own sense that there are still lots of angles on this case that are still not getting fully explored. In particular, these articles and others only give passing mention of the fact that Turner was sentenced to a lifetime on the sex offender registry. I have long speculated that this reality  which I believe was mandatory for his convictions  not only may have largely accounted for Judge Persky's short jail sentence, but also may have been a main reason Turner was unwilling to plead guilty and accept responsibility in the way the victim wished. Ever since BuzzFeed published the full courtroom statement of Turner's victim (available here and recommended reading), I have always been struck by this passage: "Had Brock admitted guilt and remorse and offered to settle early on, I would have considered a lighter sentence, respecting his honesty, grateful to be able to move our lives forward. Instead he took the risk of going to trial, added insult to injury and forced me to relive the hurt as details about my personal life and sexual assault were brutally dissected before the public." This passage still has me wondering about what kind of plea had been offered to Turner and whether the prospect of a lifetime on the sex offender registry was central to his decision to go to trial.

The CNN article linked above does make one (possibly overstated) point about the sex offender registry part of his punishment: "That's a penalty so burdensome that if Turner were to have children someday, he wouldn't be able to get near their school." Of course, being on the registry for life means a whole lot more, too. I continue to wonder not only if that reality influenced Judge Persky, but if other judges in California or around the nation regularly adjust their prison terms knowing the severe impact of the collateral consequences of sex offender registration. I hear stories all the time of prosecutors and defense attorneys looking to "charge or plea around" particular crimes that carry sex offender registration or other severe collateral consequences. If these collateral sanctions influence attorneys, surely they influence sentencing judges in various settings in various ways. I would love to see more reporting on this element of the Turner case and Judge Persky's decision-making (recalling that Persky himself has been a state sex crimes prosecuot). But perhaps only a sentencing nerd like me really cares all that much about this part of the story.

In any event, readers can gear up for the recall election also by reviewing a number of prior posts here about the Brock Turner case. I think it is fair to say that in these posts I have expressed various concerns about both the lenient sentence Turner received and about the campaign to recall Judge Persky. Here is just a sampling of the prior posts this case has generated:

June 3, 2018 at 11:18 AM | Permalink

Comments

"That's a penalty so burdensome that if Turner were to have children someday, he wouldn't be able to get near their school."

So, no matter what state [or country?] he lives in, the terms hold?

A person with means like him can live with this badge of infamy more.

I also personally wouldn't trade it for even a few years locked in a small cage where fellow prisoners might hear I am a sex offender (in certain cases ones who likes children). Others might disagree though for most it would be theoretical.

Anyway, I'm very wary of this recall effort but not the Huffington Post article:

"To convince voters that Persky was unfit for the bench, Dauber knew she needed to demonstrate that Turners sentence was not an isolated bad decision."

It isn't just based on this one case.

Posted by: Joe | Jun 3, 2018 12:17:36 PM

They hung out for hours. They were drunk. They made love. One fell asleep. No crime was even committed.



This recall is the feminists getting upset by heterosexual sex.

Posted by: David Behar | Jun 3, 2018 1:26:21 PM

Joe. I am wary of the recall. But, it is not based on this one case.

Catch this masterpiece of modern music before Berman deletes this again.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fWTc6_-90I

Posted by: David Behar | Jun 3, 2018 1:29:42 PM

"But perhaps only a sentencing nerd like me really cares all that much about this part of the story."

You are not the only one but as for myself I have long given up any hope that anything will change in my lifetime. We are too few and viewed by our culture as too anomalous to have any influence.

Posted by: Daniel | Jun 3, 2018 2:25:16 PM

"Stanford Law Professor Michele Dauber"

A powerful woman exploiting a weaker woman for her own gain. Let's us all be clear here, whether the judge gets impeached or not is irrelevant to her. What she is interested in doing is burnishing her credentials as a fighter for "social justice" (her version of it, anyway) among her academic colleagues and her feminist colleagues. It is they and not the public who is her actual audience. Win or lose she'll be able to command higher speaking fees and bigger audiences in the future.



Posted by: Daniel | Jun 3, 2018 2:32:21 PM

Daniel: I love this. Feminists vs the hierarchy of the legal profession.

HuffPost:

"Over the next year and a half, Dauber raised more than $1 million from over 5,000 donors, most of whom contributed less than $100. She mobilized scores of volunteers and won endorsements from local politicians, unions and prominent feminists, including Kirsten Gillibrand, Lena Dunham and Anita Hill. This January, having accumulated nearly 95,000 signatures, Dauber got the recall on the ballot in Santa Clara County for the June 5 election.

The Me Too movement has supercharged Daubers campaign. But it has also fueled the opposition to her effortjoined by much of the states legal establishmentand created a deep hostility toward Dauber and her tactics. On February 14, a letter arrived at Daubers Stanford office. The message inside read, Since you are going to disrobe Persky, I am going to treat you like Emily Doe. Lets see what kind of sentencing I get for being a rich white male. A white powder fell from the envelope."

Posted by: David Behar | Jun 3, 2018 4:05:26 PM

Berman: "I have expressed various concerns about both the lenient sentence Turner received and about the campaign to recall Judge Persky."

Sentencing reform is less desirable when it offends a feminist.



Posted by: David Behar | Jun 3, 2018 4:09:04 PM

The feminist was radicalized at Stanford Law, but does not have a California license.

Posted by: David Behar | Jun 4, 2018 12:04:53 AM

This interesting discussion recalls the study a few years back that found that introduction of the sex offender registry in SC created a spike in the no. of defendants who pled down to non-sex crimes--not exactly a great result: https://www.postandcourier.com/news/report-looks-at-sex-offender-registry/article_50f76fa8-98b9-5c54-844b-1893e69f5eba.html

Posted by: Steven Yoder | Jun 6, 2018 7:45:11 PM

Post a commentA statement by the head of security firm FireEye that US government spooks produce "nice" malware when compared to that of other states has been reported by the American tech news website Cyberscoop  and allowed to pass unchallenged.

FireEye chief executive Kevin Mandia told a forum  organised by Scoop News Group, the parent organisation of Cyberscoop  that certain features within the malware produced by nation states indicated the country that was involved.

He was quoted as saying: We find malware that sometimes has a time to live and then it doesnt run anymore. I wonder who would do that. Probably [the US] because were the nicest hackers in cyberspace, besides maybe China.

Cyberscoop had a chance to quiz Mandia about these remarks because its report, written by staffer Zaid Shoorbajee, mentioned that he had spoken to Mandia after the speech. But Mandia's views went unchallenged.

Even a statement that the company would tip off intelligence officials from the Five Eyes countries  the US, the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand  before publishing a public threat intelligence report, did not cause any raised eyebrows.

Other security companies do not follow this procedure as is evident from the tweet below.

If Dragos finds threats in ICS networks, no matter who we think it is, no one gets a heads up. I.e. there are no friendly nations when it comes to targeting civilian infrastructure. They all shouldnt be there. Luckily we dont do attribution either so - all just threats to us.  Dragos, Inc. (@DragosInc) 1 June 2018

That such propaganda has gone unchallenged is perhaps because these forums are part of the business model of the Scoop News Group, which advertises its events as "Five hundred billion dollars of direct IT influence are in this room", adding that 70% of the attendees are from the government and that it has so far secured 3000 VIP speakers for its events.

Scoop News Group also makes money from what it calls disruptive studies, thought leadership articles, tech briefs and multimedia campaigns. How these activities can co-exist side-by-side with forthright journalism is puzzling.

One Cyberscoop reporter Chris Bing tweeted out a link to the article on Mandia's remarks, adding: "To be clear: the story says that there's a heads up before the publication of public intel reports (think APT 1 report). When encountering *suspected* Five Eyes malware they detect/stop. Redline is around public disclosure. And even then, it's pretty tough to attribute anyways."

The article mentioned the disclosure of the Slingshot malware at Kaspersky Lab's Security Analyst Summit in March. A Cyberscoop report later cited unnamed intelligence sources as claiming that Slingshot was US-crafted malware and aimed at what the source said were terrorists.

To be clear: the story says that there's a heads up before the publication of public intel reports (think APT 1 report). When encountering *suspected* Five Eyes malware they detect/stop. Redline is around public disclosure. And even then, it's pretty tough to attribute anyways  Chris Bing (@Bing_Chris) 1 June 2018

When Ryan Naraine, a former reporter at ZDNet and also a former Kaspersky Lab employee, asked Bing whether he saw anything "marginally problematic with this approach", Bing quickly went on the defensive.

After clarifying that Naraine was asking for his opinion, Bing tweeted out a sanctimonious reply: "My job is to break news and accurately report things with the help of my editorial team. It's not to have opinions. What I can say is that I am driven to report on important subjects in this space, regardless of who is involved."

To which former Wired reporter Kim Zetter responded: "You want to have stories that are balanced, but that doesn't mean the reporter doesn't have opinions. Like it or not, reporters/editors express their opinions in the headlines they choose, their choice of quotes and the context they do or don't include in stories."

Bing's views were endorsed by his current colleague, Shaun Waterman, who responded to Zetter: "Up to a point. A wise old bird at the BBC once told me: 'Shaun, the listeners don't care what you think. they care what you KNOW.' It's knowledge, not opinion, that makes a great journalist."

As a government broadcaster, it is obvious the BBC would have a different perspective on opinion. The government-funded ABC in Australia has a similar stand on opinion as the Beeb.

It is ludicrous to think that malware, no matter who propagates it, can act "nice" towards some part of the population and viciously towards others. It is a danger to all and sundry. Lower down in the article about Mandia, Cyberscoop very briefly mentioned that other unnamed experts claimed the US was as unruly and wild as far as its malware was concerned, with the case of Stuxnet cited as an example.

There are numerous security companies in the US that seem to tailor what they publish towards the needs of government. One of these companies, Recorded Future, put out research just before the summit of the Koreas, about North Korean activities in cyber space.

A second report, issued just before US President Donald Trump was due to pronounce on the Iran nuclear deal  he cancelled it  claimed that Iran would retaliate by stepping up its online attacks. Nothing of the sort has happened.

Both the North Korean attack report and the Iran one were sent to iTWire prior to publication; we ran the former but then I thought the second one looked just too much of a coincidence. So I held off.

Another case of a security company trying to push a line came to the fore last year when a Washington-based company InGuardians slipped a report to former Washington Post employee Brian Krebs, containing claims about the identity of the person behind the leak of NSA exploits by the Shadow Brokers.

Krebs ran the story in great detail and then suddenly took it down. He mentioned the takedown at the very end of a story he wrote about the arrest of a Vietnamese American who had pleaded guilty to taking masses of NSA material home. Comments were not allowed on this article, presumably to avoid criticism of his earlier claim.

When iTWire quizzed Krebs as to the reasons for his taking down the article, he did not provide a reply, indulging instead in personal slurs. Krebs' agenda in writing up the InGuardians "research" was questioned by well-known security blogger Marcy Wheeler.

And, of course, there are numerous security companies which have tried to push the "Russia hacked the DNC" claim, without offering evidence of the same.

It is perfectly fine for publications to report claims made by public figures, no matter where, when and on any topic. But it is also the duty of said publications to offer a perspective that perhaps such claims could be overblown. A hands-off attitude is what led to one of the great recent disasters in US foreign policy: the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

In the case of Mandia and Cyberscoop, the journalistic side of operations appears to have been somewhat compromised by the fact that the FireEye chief made his remarks at a forum organised by the owner of Cyberscoop.

One of the top investigative reporters in the US, Seymour Hersh, has just released a memoir titled Reporter. Therein, according to a review by Rolling Stone's Matt Taibbi, he tells the tale of how the CIA tried to feed him information about Jonathan Pollard, who was caught spying for Israel.

At a time when then US president Bill Clinton was rumoured to be preparing a pardon for Pollard, Hersh was invited to the CIA and shown masses of intelligence that Pollard had sold to Israel. Doubtless, the CIA spooks wanted Hersh to write about it and make the case for not issuing a pardon to Pollard.

Though the story would have been a major one, Hersh was not comfortable with being fed information this way. "I was very ambivalent about being in the unfamiliar position of carrying water for the American intelligence community," he writes. "I, who had worked so hard in my career to learn the secrets, had been handed the secrets."

Taibbi commented: "This offhand line explains a lot about what has made Hersh completely embody what it means to be a reporter. The great test is being able to get information powerful people don't want you to have. A journalist who is handed something, even a very sensational something, should feel nervous, sick, ambivalent. Hersh never stopped feeling that way, remaining an iconoclast and a thorn in the side of officialdom to this day."

One can't help feeling that there's a lesson somewhere in there for people who report whatever officialdom tells them without stopping to question the claims being pushed.

Many journalists like to be well-known, and forget completely that they are part of the fourth estate, not some arm of industry meant to support national governments. As I've written before, it's best to remember that we are just filling up the spaces between the advertisements and therefore it is advisable to disabuse ourselves of any sense that we are the story. A journalist is an outsider, not an insider. That's a tough path to hoe. But it means the difference between a journalist and a stenographer.Chairman Phong informed the socioeconomic achievements of HCM city and presented the city's economic development policies in the 2018-2020 period.



The chairman said that HCMC has been building a smart city project and that is the city's one of top important missions. The project aims to improve the quality of growth and economic competitiveness, enhance social benefits and the quality of life as well as ensure that economic growth is compatible with sustainable development.

The HCMCs chairman praised the traditional friendship and brotherhood between Vietnam and Cuba.

Aiming at deepening bilateral relations and fostering partnership, the HCMC delegation plans to organize activities during the visit such as conference on promoting trade, investment and tourism; business matching event, and introduction of key products of Vietnam and HCMC to Cuban enterprises and people, Mr. Phong added.

On the same day, the delegation met Chairman of the Cuban National Assembly Esteban Lazo Hernandez.

Chairman Hernandez affirmed that Cuba considers Vietnam as one of the strategic partners and expects to boost trade and economic cooperation which is elevated to the level of great politicial relation between the two countries.

The delegation also visited the University of Havana in Vedado district of Havana, the capital of the Republic of Cuba. Founded in 1728, the university is the oldest in Cuba, and one of the first ones founded in the Americas. It has 15 faculties, 14 research centers in a variety of fields, 25 specialties and about 6,000 students.

Ho Chi Minh City high ranking officials laid also wreaths at the monument for Cuban independence hero Jose Marti at the President Ho Chi Minh Monument in Havana.





By THUY HAI  Translated by Kim KhanhBefore leaving Tokyo, the State leader and his spouse had a warm farewell meeting with the Emperor and Empress.



The President also had a meeting with the Vietnamese Embassys staff and the Vietnamese nationals in the East Asian country, during which he hailed the contributions made by the Vietnamese expatriates to deepening the Vietnam-Japan cooperative ties.



He spoke highly of the Vietnamese representative organisations efforts to overcome challenges to fulfill their tasks entrusted by the Party and State.



He briefed the Vietnamese nationals about the homelands socio-economic situation and its robust economic growth as well as stable security and defence.



Regarding the relations with Japan, President Quang said that the country is a leading strategic partner of Vietnam in various fields. Thus, the Party and States consistent policy is to develop the extensive strategic ties with Japan.



After 45 years of diplomatic establishment, both nations have enjoyed fruitful relations with regular high-ranking and people-to people exchanges, increasingly political trust, and deepened collaboration in economy, trade, investment, education, tourism and defence.



President Quang said his State visit to Japan was a success.



During his stay, he met with the Emperor, held talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and had meetings with political and economic leaders of Japan. He delivered speech at a trade promotion conference which drew the participation of 600 enterprises from both sides. Also, he attended a ceremony to mark 45th anniversary of the bilateral relations.



He asked the Vietnamese Embassy and other representative organisations to further efforts to carry out agreements inked between the two leaders, attract ODA and FDI capital, accelerate transfer of technology as well as foster collaboration in the fields with potential.



The embassy should carry out sound citizen protection measures and the Vietnamese people community must comply with regulations in the host country, he said.



The State leader also expressed his hope that the Vietnamese nationals will work to contribute more to the Vietnam-Japan relations.



Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Nguyen Quoc Cuong affirmed that the embassy always does it utmost to foster the extensive strategic ties between the two countries.

VietnamplusReddit Email 502 Shares

Washington, D.C. (Otherwords.org)  Shortly after Donald Trump was awarded the presidency by our perverted and antiquated electoral system, I got desperate calls from some normally non-political family members and friends. They wanted to know what they could do to counter the governing debacle they knew would come. Most asked where they could give money.

I had only one answer: Give to the litigators.

While think tanks and policy shops are also a much-needed resource in a democracy, groups that directly challenge the government in court can sometimes stop the worst excesses  or at least slow them down until a regime change.

My list was short, but included groups active in areas I thought were most threatened. I recommended the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, the Human Rights Campaign, Earth Justice, the Mexican American Legal Defense Fund (MALDEF), and the NAACP as some of the most likely to tackle the coming challenges not only to established law, but to common sense and decency.

Like most folks, I like to be right. But this time there was no joy when those challenges arrived like a barrage of incoming missiles from multiple directions.

The Trump administrations move to block funding to global groups that provide any sort of abortion counseling  often including contraception  came only three days after Trumps inauguration.

Dismantling regulations on other fronts was no less drastic. In his first year alone, Trump overturned 33 environmental regulations ranging from decisions on the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines to migratory bird protections, and 24 more were on the chopping block.

The Muslim travel ban, the ban on transgender individuals serving in the military, and ending DACA were just the most prominent of the dozens of other rollbacks that came almost daily and have never let up.

But I was also right on another front, and on that I can take heart. Litigators quickly stepped up to delay  and maybe eventually end  the abuses.

Human rights and immigration groups jumped in immediately when Trump issued his travel ban, even showing up at airports to aid stranded immigrants. They were successful in stopping the worst excesses and delaying a much watered-down partial ban for several months. Even as the partial ban took effect they pressed on, and if the Supreme Court ultimately overturns it, it will be thanks to them.

Environmental groups have so far stalled Trumps planned pipeline building, and predict their lawsuits will delay it until he is out of office, and possibly forever. Similarly, advocates for gender justice quickly filed suit when Trump announced the transgender ban, and they believe it will be overturned permanently in the next few months. And DACA defenders including MALDEF, the NAACP, and attorneys general from several states continue to block the Trump administrations attempt to kill the program.

The administrations latest attack on reproductive rights comes in the realm of federal support for family planning services and other preventive health care for low-income, under-insured, and uninsured individuals. New guidelines will support groups that advocate the risky rhythm method and the discredited abstinence only education over more conventional and effective contraception.

Its widely seen as another backdoor attempt to defund Planned Parenthood, a major provider of sex education and birth control nationwide. So Planned Parenthood and the ACLU have filed suit to stop implementation.

On balance, all of this is heartening progress given the considerable challenges of dealing with an unpredictable and malicious head of state. At least until voters engineer a regime change.

Via Otherwords.org.

Creative Commons License.

Featured photo: Courtroom, Karen Neoh/Flickr, Creative Commons License 2.0.163 Shares Share

I strongly believe that clinical physicians do not have an edge on the rest of the market. Therefore, they should heed Warren Buffetts advice  avoid picking individual stocks and invest in index funds.

Nevertheless, some doctors do believe that they have an edge when it comes to investing in health care stocks. They think that just because they are a doctor, they are better trained to invest in the stocks of the drug companies and device makers that they prescribe and use every day.

Unfortunately, I dont believe that physicians make better health care investors. This is because many of the edges that physicians perceive they possess are not actually advantages at all.

Prescribing the drug does not equal knowing the company

Some physicians may think that they have superior knowledge about a drug company because they prescribe the companys drugs on a regular basis. They may be completely up-to-date with the medical literature and know that the companys drugs are popular among their physician colleagues.

Unfortunately, the prescribing patterns of physicians are a tiny piece of the puzzle that determines a health care stocks value. They may know how often they personally are prescribing a drug, but they have little idea about how often it is being prescribed around the world, nor do they know how much the drug company is making each time a prescription is filled at the pharmacy.

Can physicians predict the future of medicine?

Recently, I heard a colleague talking about how he thought itd be a good idea to invest in various pharmaceutical companies because immunotherapy is going to be a big thing in oncology over the next 5-10 years.

Unfortunately, by the time a new drug or trend hits the minds of clinical physicians, the market has long priced in its potential value.

Immunotherapy is a thing, and has been a thing, for a very long time in oncology already. Ipilimumab, the first big immunotherapy drug to hit the market, completed its Phase 3 melanoma trial way back in 2010, and was FDA-approved in 2011. Needless to say, ipilimumab was in the pipeline for years before that, and the stock market was pricing in future sales of ipilimumab into Bristol Myers Squibb stock well before it gained FDA approval.

In order to truly understand the future prospects of pharmaceutical companies, you have to understand the potential of new drugs way before it ever gets prescribed by a physician. For example, Bristol Myers Squibb publishes their R&D pipeline on their website. It currently lists 41 compounds in development. The future prospects of Bristol Myers Squibb rest not just on the success or failure of its FDA-approved drugs, but also of these obscure molecules still in development.

Dont trade on insider information

One type of information that physicians might be privy to that would actually be an edge is the results of pending clinical trial results. The results of clinical trials move markets, and these trial results are tightly embargoed prior to their presentation at national meetings. For the few people who are privy to the trial results, it can be tempting to trade off these results, or leak them to friends or family.

Of course, this would be illegal insider trading, and physicians have gotten into deep trouble for leaking trial results to hedge funds or trading off of insider information. For example, the former chair of the University of Michigan neurology department, Dr. Sidney Gilman, was privy to the trial results of bapineuzumab, a drug developed for Alzheimers by Elan and Wyeth. He shared the information of the Phase III trial results to Matthew Martoma, a trader at the hedge fund SAC Capital, who then made a $276 million profit on that trade and earned a nearly $10 million bonus in 2009.

However, federal investigators discovered the insider trading scheme, and Dr. Gilman, in exchange for leniency, testified against Martoma in the insider trading trial, leading to Martomas conviction. Had he not flipped to become an informant for the government, the physicians in his 80s faced potentially more than a decade in prison.

Probably the most famous case of insider trading involving a drug company trial result was the Martha Stewart insider-trading trial of ImClone stock. Imclones CEO, Samuel Waksal, shared information that its possible blockbuster drug, cetuximab (Erbitux), would not be FDA-approved to family and associates. Martha Stewart sold ImClone stock a day before the FDA announcement on a tip from her stockbroker, and she served 5 months in prison for insider trading.

Ensnared in this insider-trading scandal was Dr. Zvi Fuks, then the chairman of radiation oncology at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. According to federal authorities, after also being tipped by ImClone CEO Sam Waksal of the Erbitux results, Dr. Fuks allegedly sold $5 million dollars worth of ImClone stock based off of this insider information. The case was eventually settled out of court, but Dr. Fuks left his position as radiation oncology at MSKCC following the scandal.

Conclusion

Clinical physicians have little to no edge when it comes to evaluating the stocks of health care companies. Even if physicians are regular prescribers of a companys drugs, they have little idea about the companys drug pipeline or how much profit the company is making for every pill that is dispensed.

Just as I am skeptical that a teenage girl would make a superior analyst for fashion and retail stocks, I dont believe physicians possess any material advantage over other professional investors. Some physicians may have insider information, but the use of that information for financial gain is illegal, and physicians have been prosecuted for insider trading.

Wall Street Physician, a former Wall Street derivatives trader , is a physician who blogs at his self-titled site, the Wall Street Physician.

Image credit: Shutterstock.comPeople increasingly turning to online shopping has badly affected footfall in certain local businesses, last weeks meeting on the future of shopping in Kilkenny heard.

Speaking at the beginning of the event in City Hall, Martin Costello of Murphys Jewellers said the hinterland from which people would travel to Kilkenny was diminishing, and many customers now choose to sit at home browsing the internet for products.

He said many small businesses were creating websites, but getting them to rank properly in a Google search could be a lot of work and a lot of money. Its also difficult to compete with larger retailers and multiples which may have large warehouses of goods.

People dont seem to come in and shop around anymore, he said.

Particularly the younger generation, but older people too. So I think thats a huge difference, and online sales are rising as well.

Mr Costello said young people arent only looking for a product now, but for an experience as well  they want to take a picture and Instagram it.

CEO of Kilkenny Chamber John Hurley pointed to the success of the Chamber vouchers in keeping money local. When the initiative began four years ago, annual sales were less than 30,000. Last year, they broke the 100,000 mark.

The meeting also heard that Commercial Rates and the problem of parking are the two biggest issues facing business in the city centre.Mike Yardley reports:

Despite the first flash of winters fangs gripping NZ, its good to be home. Ive spent most of May in Europe, where in France the talk on the street is not about royal weddings or abortion referendums, but strikes.

Are the French ever not striking?

In France, the mass show of union militancy is more about protecting the special privileges that have cossetted much of the public sector in a pampered parallel universe for decades. But they may have finally met their match in French President Emmanuel Macron.

All previous Presidents have basically failed to do significant reform.

A central plank in his election manifesto was to unlock the French economy and reshape the public sector, which employs one in five workers. And the unions are fighting back. The spring of discontent started with Air France staging rolling strikes, despite staff being offered a 7 per cent pay rise over four years. The ailing carrier is drowning in debt, propped up by its alliance with KLM and the French Governments ownership stake. The French Economy Minister has just reiterated that without staff agreement to improve competitiveness, the airline will simply disappear, because the state is not there to pay off the companys debts.

Sadly letting a union wiping itself out of existence by getting all its members redundant may be the only way theyll learn.

Major public sector reforms aim to cut 120,000 state jobs from its 5.6 million workforce, while also blitzing the entrenched jobs-for-life culture and ludicrous retirement age entitlements. The most formidable priority is to drag SNCF, the state railway company, into the real world, triggering the biggest shake-up to Frances railways since they were nationalised in 1930s. The reform is due to help the debt-ridden operator prepare for the onset of EU-sanctioned foreign rail competition starting next year. Currently, SNCF trains cost 30 per cent more to run than Swiss or German trains, and the rail company has amassed debts of nearly NZ$100 billion. Macron is proposing to bail out SNCF in exchange for rehashing the employment terms and axing the jobs-for-life special status. Railway staff enjoy extraordinary privilege, dating from the days when workers shovelled coal into steam engines. At present, most railway staff can retire on a gold-plated pension at 55, while train drivers and conductors can retire at 50-52  compared to the national retirement age of 62. They also enjoy free train travel and subsidised housing for life.

You can see why they dont want to give it up. Perks for life and a pension at age 50.

Since April, chaos has consumed train travel, with two days in every five being paralysed by rolling rail strikes. On Tuesday last week, a general strike saw the likes of street sweepers, librarians and teachers, join rail staff in paralysing France. After rampaging through spring, the rail strikes look set to stalk summer, too. But this time, its different. Public opinion polls dont back the unions and Macron is vowing not to join a long list of predecessors who capitulated to the revolt on the street.

Good luck to him.

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Stuff reports:

Television channel Three owner MediaWorks has warned the Government that commercial television could come under more pressure if it doesnt consult widely and think through its plan to boost public broadcasting. 

But he cautioned that the free-to-air television market remained under a lot of pressure.

To have the Government owning three TV channels  One, Two and Duke  with no public service broadcast imperative, competing against one independent broadcaster, means you are potentially jeopardising your one point of diversity of view.

If you ended up in a situation in two or three years where Three didnt exist and the only form of broadcast news was government-owned, with a commercial imperative, it would be a very unfortunate outcome, he said.Baghdad [Iraq], Jun 3 (ANI): Suspected Islamic State (IS) terrorists on Saturday shot dead at least 12 members of a family in an ambush in Saladin province of northern Iraq, according to an Iraqi security official.

The official, Lieutenant Numan al-Jabouri, told Anadolu News Agency that the terrorists barged into a house and killed all the 12 people in al-Farhatiah town.

He further said that the among the deceased, several of them were women and children. The motive behind the attack is yet to be known and an investigation on the same is underway.

The IS has not reacted to the attack and is yet to claim responsibility so far.

In December, Iraq declared victory over the IS, which had seized control of nearly a third of the country in 2014.

However, the security forces still conduct operations against what they call as "sleeper cells" of the group in the country.

It is to be noted that in April, an Iraq court sentenced 19 women from Russia to life imprisonment after they were found "joining and supporting" the IS.

According to experts, there are nearly 20,000 people, who are behind bars for their alleged involvement with the terror group. However, the Iraqi government has not released the official figures yet. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], June 3 (ANI): Union Minister for Human Resource Development Prakash Javadekar on Saturday said that 'political murder' has no place in a democracy.

Javadekar alleged that murder of his party workers in West Bengal's Purulia district are political murders.

"It's a political murder. So far, 19 BJP workers have been killed. The recent killings in West Bengal are inhuman. We condemn this brutal political murder and the murder culture. The people of West Bengal will teach a lesson to those who indulge in such acts. Political murder has no place in a democracy," Javadekar said while briefing media in Kolkata.

On Saturday, the body of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker, Dulal Kumar, who went missing on Friday, was found hanging from a pole in Balarampur of Purulia district.

This comes a week after the body of another BJP activist, Trilochan Mahato, was found hanging from a tree in the same district on May 30.

As per the West Bengal police, the investigation into the death of Kumar was handed over to the Crime Investigation Department (CID).

Earlier, Union Minister for Textiles Smriti Irani had accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of indulging in targeted killings of the Bharatiya Janata Party workers in West Bengal. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)You cant make an omelette without breaking eggs.

Thats the message from Kildare County Council after residents and politicians expressed concern about the condition of some of the footpaths in Naas town centre.

It follows complaints about the paths as work takes place to move utility cables underground.

As part of the work sections of the cobble lock paving were taken up and replaced with tarmacadam.

This (the tarmac) is a temporary reinstatement and will not be left as it is, David Reel, district engineer, told a Naas Municipal District meeting.

Work to place electricity cables under the ground started early last month.

Dublin-based contractor Richard Nolan Civil Engineering said the work would take place over the course of a number of weeks.

It is being undertaken on behalf of the ESB and involves essential trenching and ducting works.

The work is happening along sections of footpath but access and egress is being accommodated at all times, to ensure pedestrians are facilitate.

SEE ALSO: Riverbank to host major historical military seminar next week

Naas councillor Seamie Moore campaigned for the work to be done and for money to be put aside to pay for it.

He has pointed out that similar work has been done in other towns in the county.

And these include as Clane and Maynooth.

He said the cables and poles are damaging the appearance of the town.

He also said they have been taken away in many other towns

He believes it will make the town more attractive and could contribute to bringing more people into the town centre to shop.

Some years ago an estimate to do the work came in at 5m. Cllr Moore says that the work need not cost as much as this because the estimate was produced at a time when projects like this cost much more to complete than today.

He also said that advances in technology mean that it is no longer to dig up the street to the same extent as in the past.Measures have been taken to provide footpaths and traffic calming measures in The Oaks and Acorn Downs area.

At the May Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting, Fianna Fail Cllr Sean Power asked the council to provide their plans.

A report issued at the meeting said; The Municipal District Office has recently provided a new footpath in The Oaks, at the rear of Scoil Mhuire to improve the safety of pedestrian flows between the school and the church into The Oaks estate.

Road markings in the vicinity of the existing pedestrian crossing in The Oaks were also refreshed a number of months ago to improve the visibility of the pedestrian crossing to approaching motorists.

The report added; The Municipal District Engineer, in his engagement with some of the elected members, has requested the assistance of the school and parents in relation to parking safely in The Oaks estate at the rear of Scoil Mhuire.

A speed survey and assessment are to be carried out and then final TAAG report to be completed.

SEE ALSO: Kildare man claims Best Barbershop in Dublin titleClodagh Daly was just five weeks old when she was diagnosed with an agressive form of cancer.

From that day on, her family have been propelled on a journey that no family should have to endure.

 Our lives were shattered the day we were told Clodagh had cancer and too find it was quiet an aggressive form of cancer was just mind boggling, said her mum, Tammy.

You go from having this beautiful little precious baby, being such an ecstatic new mom on top of the world, to being told to christen her ASAP.

I would find myself driving to Crumlin for admission with Clodagh and planning her funeral, what songs to play, would we cremate her or bury her. It was horrendous.

For the past five years the Clodagh has undergone the most gruelling of treatments including chemotherapy, raiotherapy, and stem cell replacement. She just recently returned from the last of her sessions for a clinical trial in the US at the end of April.

SEE ALSO: Newbridge woman Maria McDonalds new book about great-grandparents love across Belfast sectarian divide

The Dalys, who live in Kildare town, are thrilled with her progress and Clodagh remains in remission from Neuroblastoma.

Over the past three years, they have had to make make many trips to the Helen DeVos Childrens Hospital in Grand Rapids.

She is in junior infants at Scoil Mhuire in Newbridge and they have been just brilliant. She is at heavy risk of picking up infections quite quickly and she gets it hard to get rid of them but they have been so lovely, said Tammy.

Clodaghs journey was in the spotlight from an early age as the community rallied around to support her and her family.

This brought her to the attention of the Kildare Relay for Life committee, who asked the five year old Scoil Mhuire student to release doves as part of last years ceremony.

Relay For Life is a 24 hour event that brings the community together to celebrate the lives of cancer survivors, remember those lost to the disease and fight back by increasing knowledge of cancer and raising money to fund vital research and services of the Irish Cancer Society.

Seeing Clodagh last year at the Ceremony of Hope in remission and doing so well was just such an emotional moment for us as her parents, added Tammy.

We are so thankful to all the Relay for Life committee for having us and especially Clodagh involved. She loved doing her jobs and still talks about the birds flying away and how fun it was.

The Dalys plan to attend this years event which will take place at Punchestown from September 15 and 16.

Tammy describes Relay as an emotional experience and was blown away by how everyone came together from all over the county to share their experiences.

Amys journey

Its seldom that you can really compare real life people to superheros, but Amy Mahon from Newbridge is certainly a superwoman.

A cancer survivor herself, she is now one of the core members of the committee that organises the Kildare Relay for Life every year.

Back in February, she was named Irish Global Hero of Hope to mark World Cancer Day.

Heroes of Hope are cancer survivors who inspire hope, courage and determination in the fight against cancer.

Amy joins Heroes from countries including South Africa, America and Germany who have been recognised by the American Cancer Society.

Amy was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2012 aged 29.

Two years previously she was diagnosed with a borderline underactive thyroid and by the time her cancer was discovered it had spread to her lymph nodes. She had her thyroid removed and radioactive iodine treatment.

This required the single mum to be in isolation for five days, away from her five-year-old son. She spent a further 10 days in semi-isolation at home.

I was radio active, I couldnt even hug or give my son, Danton, a kiss. If anyone was pregnant, they wouldnt have been allowed to be near me. It was Christmas morning by the time I could give my son a hug, she explained.

Amy is now five years cancer free but the removal of her thyroid has resulted in lasting complications.

Despite this, the nail and lash technician is determined to live her life to the full.

Speaking at the time of the award presentation she said: Cancer has changed my life. I had to change my career and lifestyle and I have some health complications but I dont allow this to define me. Cancer made my life new, not different.

Amy was supported by the Irish Cancer Society during her treatment and as a result got involved in the Societys Relay For Life, Kildare.

Three years ago, Amy put in her own team called Amys Angels supported by her family, her mum Cathy and granny Helen. She is now in charge of looking after the survivors at the event and she had received such positive feedback. The survirors are the real heros of the weekend and are treated like VIPs with free holistic treatments, hair, nails, a two course meal, goodie bag and much more.

For more information on taking part, contact Ozzie OToole on 0870910768.Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

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Support our mission and join our community now.The Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) has warned that half of Leitrim doctors are set to hang up the stethoscope in the next seven years.



The IMO has been warning that many communities will be left without GPs and have a breakdown of the situation in each county. In Leitrim 50% of GPs will be due to retire over the next 5-7 years, with Longford and Roscommon each on 38%.

26% of GPs in Cavan, 25% in Sligo and 24% in Donegal will also enter retirement age over the same period.



The Organisation has been contacting TDs and running a social media campaign on Twitter to push its reverse FEMPI campaign.

The Chair of the IMO GP Committee, Dr Padraig McGarry said, The demographic of working GPs in Ireland clearly shows that over the next few years almost 700 GPs are due to retire and it is very difficult to see a scenario where these retirements will be replaced with younger GPs.

General Practice in Ireland is simply not attractive as a medical career. GPs around the country are struggling to maintain services, many lists are closed to new patients and younger GPs are choosing to leave rather than deal with a very uncertain future.

This is all happening at a time when our elderly population is increasing, the incidence of chronic disease is rising and patient needs are becoming increasingly complex, he added.

Government Responce

Fianna Fail Deputy Eamon Scanlon queried Minister for Health Simon Harris on the issue in Dail Eireann last week.

Minister Harris stated, The Government is committed to the continued development of GP capacity to ensure that patients across the country continue to have access to GP services, especially in remote rural areas and that general practice is sustainable in all areas into the future.



I want to ensure that existing GP services are retained and that general practice remains an attractive career option for newly-qualified GPs, he added.

There are 3,668 aGPS and 2,491 GPs contracted by the HSE under the GMS scheme. The Government say they are taking steps to increase the number of GP training places and improve the recruitment and retention in general practice in the coming years, they are also allowing GPs to hold GMS contracts until their 72nd birthday.

Talks are ongoing between the Government, HSE and GP associations.

Read more: Leitrim GPs to be called to emergency meeting on the outcome of the referendumFollowing a moving ecumenical religious service Manorhamiltons Tree of Hope was unveiled on Sunday afternoon at the edge of the St. Clares Church car park, beside the green area at the Star Fort.

Very Reverend Oliver Kelly PP Cloonclare-Killasnett and Reverend Richard Beadle, Rector Manorhamilton Group of Parishes compassionately presided over Sundays joint religious service for Tree of Hopes blessing and unveiling.

The planting of the Tree of Hope and building of its ornate surrounds with seating has been arranged by the Manorhamilton Tidy Towns Committee, who has been assisted in the project by many organisations and other volunteers.

The Tree of Hope is a memorial to the many victims of suicide of the area as well as a beacon of trust for all people in the future. A plaque on the Tree of Hopes small surrounding wall acknowledges the roles of STOP Suicide and the Samaritans in their noble efforts to help victims of suicide and to prevent it occurring.

On Sunday, STOP Counsellor Dermot Lahiff spoke about his organisations work in combating suicide. Kieran Ryan also addressed all assembled on behalf of the local St. Vincent de Paul branch and how in its work it is available to help out people, who may find themselves suicidal.

Manorhamilton Tidy Towns Committees Margaret Connolly spoke on its role in the provision of the Tree of Hope and thanked all who assisted the Committee with the many aspects of the project entailed.

Tidy Towns Committee member, Karen Lonican also spoke during the Tree of Hopes unveiling service and ceremony.

Have you been impacted by issues raised in this story?

Free Northwest STOP Suicide counselling is available to all who wish to avail of by phoning 086-7772009 or 1850-211-877 or contact The Samaritans on Freephone: 116 123; Text: 087 2 60 90 90.LifeStyle

The best Lifestyle shows are right here, from Australia and around the world. Catch up with the experts on home design and interiors, food and cooking, the property market, and get fresh ideas with the savviest of renovators. Whether you need inspiration for cooking up a storm, to refresh a tired room, or tips to sell your property, Foxtel Lifestyle will always something new for you to watch. Enjoy your favourite experts like Andrew Winter and Neale Whitaker, or Shaynna Blaze and Jamie Oliver live or On Demand.A LIMERICK woman has made history as the first senior para powerlifter to take home a medal from a major international competition.

Nicola Dore, Kilcornan, scooped a bronze European medal at the World Para Powerlifting Open Europeans in France over the weekend  her first time making it on to the podium.

After returning home from Berck-sur-Mer, the athlete said that she was still overwhelmed with emotion after the incredible achievement.

I cant believe it. Just to watch the Irish flag being raised, that was a very emotional moment. It was my first time winning a major international medal, and then I find out that Ive made history, because Im the first senior athlete to have won a medal at a major international para powerlifting competition, Nicola , who was born with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, told the Limerick Leader.

I was ecstatic, to win it for Ireland, to win it for Limerick. I made my brothers cry, and they never cry!

Nicolas ultimate goal is to become the first Irish female powerlifter to compete at the Paralympics, at Tokyo 2020.

For me to be guaranteed a medal I had to finish at the top of my group. I came out and lifted 66kg, and the Hungarian athlete lifted 66. Then I came out and lifted 68, then I was on top of the board again. Then she came out and lifted 68, but she didnt get it, it was a bad lift.

At that stage, I had won the medal, but I didnt know at that point. I came out and lifted 70kg, which I didnt need to get, but I did get it. I got three personal bests - it was my best performance at a competition to date, she added.

Family and friends organised a surprise local homecoming for the athlete, who just started in the sport in 2015, aged in her 20s.

The night before her big day in France, she was awarded a Limerick Top 40 Under 40 gong, at an event attended by family members in her absence. A good omen, perhaps, for what was to come the next day.

But funding her involvement in the sport is no easy task for Nicola.

I badly need a sponsor. I still have to self-fund everything and hold fundraisers, and I have very little funding left. Its getting too hard to fund it myself  I cant keep going back to the locals, theyve been too good to me, she said.

I think Ill be going to Britain in the next five weeks, for a British competition, and then possibly England in October but that will all depend on funding. The next big one, on my pathway to Tokyo, is Dubai next February.THE TRAGIC death of Savita Halappanavar in 2012 struck a chord with Fianna Fails Niall Collins and made him first consider his position on the Eighth Amendment.

Speaking from the Referendum count centre at Limerick Racecourse, Deputy Collins told the Leader he began to question where he stood on the issue of abortion following the death of the 31-year old Indian dentist at University Hospital Galway.

Ms Halappanavar died from septicaemia she contracted while miscarrying a 17-week pregnancy.

It later emerged she had been denied an emergency termination.

I never had to engage in it really, up until 2012, Deputy Collins said.

It's not an issue that people, unless they are faced with a crisis, ever really had to consider and thankfully in my own personal life, we were never faced with a crisis so we never really engaged with it.

But I think Savita Halappanavar put a lot of people thinking.

It certainly put me thinking and I came to the conclusion that the Eighth Amendment in the Irish Constitution was a hypocrisy.

Telling women that its ok and legal for you to travel abroad to obtain health care, service and support but its not ok here?

The many personal stories he heard during the course of the debate made an impact on him, he added.

Savita Halappanavar was the trigger for a lot of people. That was a moment, I think.

People have been engaged since, and before, then.

With the Citizens Assembly, with the All-Party Oireachtas Committee.

The people have listened to the obstetricians, the medical experts, the medical evidence which was given really impartially and honestly and fairly.

People have also heard the many personal testimonies during the last number of years, he added.

The Dail should hold special sittings through the summer months in order to legislate for the result of the referendum, he believes.

The Oireachtas now has a responsibility to enact the overwhelming view of the people.

Any further delays to legislation would mean that more Irish women must travel in order to secure the healthcare they need, against the will of the people.

This is a situation which cannot be allowed to continue.

Fianna Fail is prepared to work throughout the summer months, he added.

We believe that this will give us the time needed to ensure that legislation is enacted before the end of the year."THE HERITAGE Council has this Tuesday issued a call for event submissions from Limerick for National Heritage Week 2018.

It takes place from August 18 to August 26. The programme of activities will be a highlight of Irelands celebration of the European Year of Cultural Heritage, which encourages communities throughout Ireland to make a connection with Irish and European heritage.

Events registered before the extended deadline of Thursday, June 7 will be included in a special printed event guide, which will be distributed across Ireland to OPW sites, museums, libraries, local authorities, selected hotels and tourist offices. Event details will also be included in a county guide.

This years call to action for Heritage Week activities is - Share a Story, Make a Connection - encouraging everyone  from children to grandparents and those who have chosen to make Ireland their home  to get involved, and to share heritage stories in new ways.

The aim of National Heritage Week is to build heritage awareness and appreciation, while shining a light on the great work that is carried out in communities to preserve and promote our natural, built and cultural heritage.

Encouraging event registrations from Limerick, chairman of the Heritage Council, Michael Parsons said: National Heritage Week is a fantastic event, and we are delighted to see it grow in popularity year on year.

The many exciting events organised by people around the country offer a wealth of opportunity to find out more about our nature, history and culture by taking part in tours, walks, talks, exhibitions, outdoor activities and much more, he continued.

National Heritage Week has become Irelands largest cultural event. Last year, more than 570,000 people attended in excess of 2,200 events across the country, most of which were hosted by communities, volunteers and individuals who champion Irelands heritage in its many forms.

Log onto www.heritageweek.ie to find out more information on what is planned for August and to register your event.A WEST Limerick woman is bringing the art worlds most prominent minds from around the world to Adare Manor for a conference on the art business.

Rosanne McDonnell, an academic lawyer who specialises in art business, is bringing delegates from the US, the UK, Switzerland and Europe to the Manor on June 18 for Art Business Summit, Europes Leading Art Business Conference and Networking Event.

The Countess of Dunraven will officially open the event and speak about the living legacy of art and antiquities.

Delegates at the conference will include Irish art collectors as well as professionals on tax, law and wealth management, who advise clients on how to invest in art.

As investors increasingly look to art instead of property, the summit will offer insights into the international art market to assist business professionals in advising their clients. According to an index tracked by Artprice.com, art has delivered average annual returns of 8.9 percent since 2000.

Given the international nature of the market, art as an asset class is increasingly attractive to investors. And although the business of art may appear to be booming, the market can be volatile and is not without risk. Prudent collectors of art need to be equipped with the requisite knowledge to care for their collections and protect their legacy, said Ms McDonnell.

Tickets, programme and more details can be found at www.artbusinesseurope.com.A FRESH focus on the Moyross community will be exhibited in a major photography festival in June.

Limerick photographer Jamin Keogh will showcase his Moyross Study collection at the annual PhotoIreland Festival at the Library Project, in Temple Bar, which continues until June 24.

His exhibit will feature a collection of thought-provoking visuals, including landscape shots, intimate portraits and pieces that reflect life in the northside estate.

The project explores Regeneration from the point of view of the conflict and social upheaval that this programme of Regeneration has created. These images also work to challenge the many stereotypes that surround Moyross, he said.

He said that the project demonstrates how the community has, despite a troubled history, persisted and thrived.

He said Moyross finds itself physically, psychologically positioned in the city and countryside. My project works to capture the sense of community that exists in Moyross and to capture the many ways the residents of Moyross maintain their unique sense of identity.

It captures how the residents move between the urban and the rural spaces, harnessing both to maintain their community and their narratives, he explained.PROMINENT Newcastle West solicitor Rossa McMahon has responded to comments made about him at a meeting of the Cappamore-Kilmallock municipal district.

Mr McMahon said he was surprised to read Cllr Noel Gleesons vitriolic attack on me.

A story on the meeting appeared in last weeks Leader on the councils half a million euro state-of-the-art CCTV project.

Some reasons to question community surveillance schemes like that being rolled out in Limerick (from todays @Limerick_Leader). pic.twitter.com/qzQArzgarP  Rossa McMahon (@rossamcmahon) May 31, 2018

Fourteen communities were picked for the high spec CCTV cameras. They have been rolled out to Abbeyfeale, Adare, Askeaton, Caherconlish, Castleconnell, Cappamore, Croom, Foynes, Kilmallock, Murroe, Newcastle West, Pallasgreen, Patrickswell and Rathkeale. None are operational.

Cllr Gerald Mitchell asked what impact GDPR will have on CCTV monitoring proposals. The reply read out at the meeting was the council was awaiting legal advice.

During the debate, Cllr Noel Gleeson said he was very disappointed that the new CCTV cameras werent working.

A Newcastle West solicitor has created mayhem. What are his motives? He will be defending people who cant be defended. He has a vested interest in this. I think it is disgusting, said Cllr Gleeson. The Cappamore councillor was referring to Mr McMahon who has written to gardai and the Data Protection Commissioner about the CCTV cameras.

Mr McMahon said he was taken aback by the accusation that I am blocking CCTV in Limerick so that I can profit from the crime that he imagines will flourish without the cameras rolling.

Cllr Gleeson's comments are wrong on many levels. He ignores that I live and work in Newcastle West and, as a citizen, I am entitled to ask the council questions about a scheme like this.

I do not know about Cappamore but in Newcastle West we have one of the biggest policing centres in the region and we are very well served by the many members of An Garda Siochana here.

"The councils report to justify a CCTV scheme showed a drop in crime of over 22% in Newcastle West over the time period they surveyed so I do not understand what benefit expensive surveillance systems will bring to the town.

Crime is being used as a smokescreen to introduce this Smart CCTV system, which raises significant legal issues. This is not standard CCTV - the council envisages a system of constant surveillance and tracking which can monitor licence plates, faces, patterns and more. The acting garda commissioner has confirmed to me that the authorisation the council obtained for the scheme does not cover all the intended uses that have been publicised, wrote Mr McMahon.

The real scandal, he said, is the council, on the eve of GDPR coming into effect, decided to spend over half a million euro installing a massive surveillance system without appearing to have any evidence that it is necessary, that it will be effective or that it will even be legal.THE chance to become this years champion limerick writer is up for grabs in Limerick, with 500 on offer for the winner.

The Bring Your Limericks to Limerick Competition returns this year for a sixth outing - one more than there are lines in the famous verse - with an event at Dolans on August 25.

Organised by Limerick Writers Centre, the event has attracted entries from all over the world from fans of the funny, though often ribald, irreverent, and sometimes vulgar verse, with local theatre facilitator Monica Spencer taking the title in 2017.

Organisers are again stressing the connection between the verse and the place, believing that limerick has bestowed on our city and region a unique natural advantage which, up to now, we have failed to capitalise on.

The hope is to make the competition an integral part of the cultural life of the city and region and further the aim of making the Limerick verse form synonymous with the city and its hinterland, said festival director Lisa Gibbons.

Our ultimate aim is to make Limerick the world centre for this famous verse form, she added.

For more details and to enter the competition, see www.limericksfest.wixsite. com/ limerickliteraryfest.If some dark matter does carry an electric charge, that could explain why the hydrogen gas floating between stars at the cosmic dawn was much cooler than expected. Shown here, an artist's impression of the evolution of the universe beginning with the Big Bang (left).

Dark matter, the stuff that's hypothesized to make up about a quarter of the universe yet doesn't seem to interact with light at all, could have a tiny electric charge, according to a new study.

So far, dark matter has made its presence known only through gravity, by tugging on stars and galaxies. But now, astrophysicists Julian Munoz and Abraham Loeb of Harvard University suggest that a small fraction of dark-matter particles could have a tiny electric charge  meaning dark matter could interact with normal matter through the electromagnetic force.

If true, this idea would not only represent a big step in understanding dark matter but would also explain a recent mystery that's been confounding cosmologists.

Curious cooling

In February, astronomers announced the first detection of an elusive signal from hydrogen gas from the cosmic dawn, the period about 180 million years after the Big Bang when the first stars began to shine. At this time, the hydrogen gas floating between the stars was cold  colder than the cosmic microwave background, the leftover radiation from the Big Bang that bathes the universe. [Big Bang to Civilization: 10 Amazing Origin Events]

Because hydrogen is cooler than this afterglow, the gas absorbs the radiation  in particular, radiation with a wavelength of 21 centimeters (8.3 inches). By measuring the absorption of radiation by hydrogen, astronomers can better understand the cosmic dawn, a relatively unknown era of cosmic history. Using a radio antenna in Western Australia called the Experiment to Detect the Global Epoch of Reionization Signature (EDGES), a team of astronomers was able to detect this absorption for the first time.

"This is, in and of itself, an amazing scientific discovery," Munoz told Live Science. But more than that, he added, the astronomers found that twice as many photons were absorbed by the hydrogen than expected. For the gas to absorb so much radiation, it would have to be even cooler than scientists thought.

Munoz and Loeb proposed that dark matter might be the culprit for the curious cooling. In a paper published May 30 in the journal Nature , they found that if less than 1 percent of the dark matter had about one-millionth of the electric charge of an electron, then this elusive matter could pull heat from the hydrogen  similar to how ice cubes cool your lemonade. "Ice, here, is the dark matter," Munoz said.

Their idea isn't completely new. Decades ago, physicists proposed that dark-matter particles could have an electric charge.

And it's not the only explanation for this cooling. In a March 1 paper in the journal Nature, Rennan Barkana, a cosmologist at Tel Aviv University in Israel, proposed that a more general form of dark matter, which doesn't necessarily have a charge, could cool normal matter and explain the EDGES data.

Both dark-matter proposals make similar predictions, said Barkana, who was not involved in the current study.

"This is a time for cautious optimism and keeping an open mind, about both the radio observation and the interpretation," Barkana told Live Science.

Dozens of ideas

Dark matter is just one of dozens of ideas proposed to explain the anomaly. For instance, instead of the gas being cooler, the background radiation might be hotter than expected, with some exotic process producing more radiation that has yet to be accounted for. Or, there simply could be errors in the analysis or measurement.

Indeed, the EDGES observation is the first of its kind, and although the team spent two years checking and double-checking the analysis, researchers will need more data to confirm the puzzling results.

"If EDGES is correct, I don't think there's any conventional explanation that's compelling," said Steven Furlanetto, an astrophysicist at the University of California, Los Angeles, who was not involved in the study. "You really need to go to one of these nonstandard physics scenarios, and in that case, I think it's wide open."

Munoz, however, is partial to the dark-matter explanation. "If EDGES is indeed right, it seems very hard for this not to be the result of dark matter," he said.

Several instruments around the world are already gearing up to make more detailed observations. Unlike EDGES, some experiments, such as a radio telescope in South Africa called the Hydrogen Epoch of Reionization Array, will be able to measure how the absorption varies across the sky. If a small fraction of dark matter is electrically charged as Munoz and Loeb say, then it will create a distinct pattern in this variation  providing a key test for electrically charged dark matter.

Originally published on Live Science.It was 20 minutes past midnight when police officer Richard Overton decided hed had enough of the teens and their rock and roll music.

In the police report from the night of June 2, 1956, Overton wrote that the music playing at the Santa Cruz civic auditorium excited the crowd to passion at times and it was feared the crowd might become uncontrollable.

One couple, in particular, drew his eye. They were furiously dancing, making highly suggestive, stimulating and tantalizing motions. A crowd of other dancers had gathered around them, admiring their moves.

Apparently terrified of this would-be revolt of hormonal young people, Overton mustered police resources to clear out the venue. No one protested; all 200 revelers left quietly, including the band. In the light of day, Santa Cruz police chief Al Huntsman declared all future rock and roll dances were banned.

Authorities have imposed a ban on rock and roll and other frenzied forms of terpsichore in Santa Cruz as a result of obscene and highly suggestive dancing by teenagers at an affair held at civic auditorium Saturday night, the Santa Cruz Sentinel declared on its front page.

Santa Cruz had banned rock and roll. And the people would not be happy about it.

---

It only took a few days for the story to go viral, 1950s-style. Wire services around the nation picked up the tale, and the Santa Cruz police department was flooded with calls from reporters asking about the ban. The outrage came too, from young and old, who saw the move as a draconian measure to regulate fun. Many felt a racial element was also part of the police response. The band performing that night was black, the police were white.

"Because of a few bad apples, [we have] been made into a group of uncontrollable savages overpowered by the provocative rhythms, 16-year-old Arlene Freitas wrote in a letter to the Sentinel. " I disagree with you about the destruction of health and morals of our youth, if anything it helps by eliminating prejudice between the two races."

The backlash hit the city hard, and officials immediately started clarifying the ban. On June 6, city manager Robert Klein announced there was no official city ban on "harmless" rock and roll dancing.

We have nothing against rock-and-roll music, police chief Huntsman added. Its just what some people do while listening to it.

Their backtracking led to an incredible San Francisco Chronicle article on June 7. It read: City officials, indignant over being thought of as squares, announced today that dancing to rock and roll music is NOT being banned from this seaside resort community.

But some busy-body city council members werent ready to let the issue go. After a few postponements, the issue went before the council on Aug. 28. They passed a resolution giving city auditorium manager Ray Judah the right to ban any dance from rock nroll to stately waltz that he deemed not consistent with the presentation of clean and acceptable stage and floor events, including dances of immoral and suggestive character.

The resolution, though, didnt have teeth. The parameters for an immoral dance were not specified, and the resolution only applied to the civic auditorium. The next year, the Sentinel was back to publishing photos of happy teens, dancing to rock and roll music at high school dances and local concerts.

In the end, common sense won, partly because some of the surprisingly sassy adults saw the folly of banning dances.

"I attended that dance, and with the exception of one offender, a white girl, I thought it was the tamest affair I ever saw in all my 70 years of life and dancing," H.C. Bollman wrote in a letter published in the Sentinel. "... I may help them put on a dance just like I saw and maybe even the same music, to show the parents, free of charge, how dead Rock and Roll is, compared to the Modern and Jazz dances during and since the Gay '20s."The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of a Lost World

By Steve Brusatte

William Morrow. 404 pp. $29.99

---

'We've already established that I did some silly things in high school, when my obsession with dinosaurs overtook my better judgment," writes paleontologist Steve Brusatte toward the end of his new book. He goes on to sketch his brassiest teenage move of all - picking up the phone one day in 1999 and calling Walter Alvarez at the University of California at Berkeley. Answering on the second ring, the great geologist explained his seminal theory on what led to the extinction of dinosaurs: the cataclysmic crash of a comet or asteroid into the Earth 66 million years ago.

After reading "The Rise and Fall of Dinosaurs," I think I have a pretty good idea of what made Alvarez so receptive: his young caller's infectious enthusiasm for all things dinosaurian. As a grown-up (he's now in his mid-30s), Brusatte's mastery of his field, formidable explanatory powers and engaging style have combined to produce a masterpiece of science writing for the lay reader. I would add that you'll find "Rise and Fall" fascinating even if you don't give a damn about dinosaurs - but first show me someone who doesn't give a damn about dinosaurs.

A native of Illinois, Brusatte studied at the University of Chicago and Columbia; he teaches at the University of Edinburgh. His specialty, dinosaur genealogy and evolution, gives him a wide-angled view, and his book cites the work of colleagues too numerous to count. Most of them have become his friends, including mentors he's learned from, fellow Americans he's dug up fossils with, Chinese he has sought out and two Eastern Europeans, one Polish and the other Romanian, who have "the best nose(s) for fossils of anybody I've ever known."

The only scientists Brusatte speaks ill of are long dead: the batty 19th-century rivals Edward Drinker Cope and Othniel Charles Marsh. "Once chummy," Brusatte writes, they "had let ego and pride metastasize into a full-on feud, which was so radioactive that they would do anything to one-up each other in an insane battle to see who could name the most new dinosaurs."

Here is one of the few places in the book where I wish the author had dug a little deeper. Cope and Marsh didn't want merely to name dinosaurs; they also wanted to describe and classify them in scientific journals, each man showing off his erudition, buttressing his claim to be the discipline's top dog. The Bone Wars, as the conflict was called, reached their nadir when Marsh had a fossil field dynamited to keep Cope from exploring it; to gain an edge, in other words, Marsh destroyed knowledge. And yet between them, the combatants presided over the discovery of hundreds of species, including what Brusatte calls "ones that roll off the tongue of every schoolchild: Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, Brontosaurus, Ceratosaurus, Diplodocus, Stegosaurus."

Neither Cope nor Marsh, however, found the tongue-rollingest dinosaur of all, Tyrannosaurus rex. That pleasure went to Barnum Brown, whose abilities took him from "a speck of a village on the Kansas prairie" to Montana, where he made the discovery of his career in 1902, and then to New York, where he became curator of vertebrate paleontology at the American Museum of Natural History.

Brusatte sums up the carnivorous Tyrannosaurs as "the transcendent terrors that fire our imaginations," but for me his short course on the vegetarian sauropods is the most riveting part of the book. Some of these creatures were the largest land animals ever, notably a subgroup called the titanosaurs, which could weigh in excess of 50 tons. (For comparison, the largest elephant on record tipped the scale at 11 tons.) What Brusatte calls "the money question" is this: "How were these dinosaurs able to attain sizes so completely out of scale with anything else evolution has ever produced" on land? (For the record, blue whales can weigh up to 170 tons.)

Over the next four pages, you watch enrapt as Brusatte outfits the sauropods with the features crucial to their humongousness. Long necks that gave them access to a vast range of plants high and low. Fast growth rates. Extraordinarily efficient lungs capable of processing oxygen not only on the inhale but also on the exhale. Skeletons both sturdy and light, which lent the behemoths a surprising flexibility. And the ability to get rid of excess body heat. Add this all up and you have creatures that "became biblically huge and swept around the world."

Another bravura section - the whole last chapter, really - chronicles the dinosaurs' Alvarezian end. "It was the worst day in the history of our planet," Brusatte begins, and he means our planet's entire history, not just the period up to that point (66 million years ago). Slamming down on what is now the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, the unguided missile "hit with the force of over 100 trillion tons of TNT, somewhere in the vicinity of a billion nuclear bombs' worth of energy."

Not all dinosaurs died out as a result of this juggernaut and its effects on the atmosphere. Spared were ancestral birds, whose startling claim to membership in the dinosaur club was first made by Darwin's friend and defender Thomas Henry Huxley. It took decades to confirm Huxley's hunch, but the connection is now clear. Scientists have dug up dinosaur fossils with proto-feathers, and drawings in "The Rise and Fall" - notably that of a rather frilly T. rex - show what they would have looked like in the fullness of life.

Brusatte makes another point about that planetary disaster. Devastating as it was for dinosaurs, it opened the way for surviving small mammals to flourish and develop until, eons later, one evolutionary line produced the species Homo sapiens. Absent "the worst day in the history of our planet," then, you and I probably would not have shared this interlude with the scintillating Steve Brusatte.

---

Drabelle, a former contributing editor of Book World, is writing a novel based on the Bone Wars.The Daughters of the American Revolution Fort Crailo Chapter dedicated a bench at Riverfront Park to honor Vietnam veterans Memorial Day weekend. Thailand-born Kwai Lwin, 17, who lives in Rensselaer, drew the winning design. The project began when Chapter Chaplain Kathy Baldwin Keenan sought a complete list of Rensselaer Vietnam veterans. Caitlin and Terry Mooney of Rensselaer's Everlasting Memorials donated the black granite bench. Rensselaer City Schools Alumni Association donated design contest prize money.When former president Bill Clinton traveled to North Korea in 2009 on a humanitarian mission to free two American journalists, he delivered strict instructions to his team ahead of their meeting with dictator Kim Jong Il: "We're not smiling."

In several photos, including a formal portrait with their hosts in Pyongyang, Clinton and his aides kept their game faces on - looking serious and determined, befitting the tone of the mission, according to a person familiar with the trip.

President Donald Trump took a decidedly different approach on Friday when he welcomed a North Korean official to the White House for the first such meeting in 18 years. Trump beamed as Kim Yong Chol - a former spy chief accused of masterminding the sinking of a South Korean navy vessel in 2010 that killed 46 sailors - presented him with a cartoonishly oversize envelope containing a letter from Kim Jong Un, the nation's current dictator.

The two posed for a photo in the Oval Office with Trump proudly showing off the envelope - an image that White House aides promptly distributed to the public.

FULL COVERAGE: Trump says summit with Kim Jong Un back on

The warm display left some former U.S. officials who've negotiated with North Korea arguing that Trump had already handed Pyongyang another public relations victory before winning concessions on its nuclear program.

"No question this is speed dating," said Christopher Hill, a former State Department diplomat who led the U.S. delegation in the Six-Party Talks with North Korea during the George W. Bush administration. He recalled being rebuffed in his bid to personally deliver a letter from Bush to Kim Jong Il - in a standard business-size envelope.

By contrast, Hill said, the North Koreans already "have gotten the whole enchilada" from Trump.

KIM AND TRUMP: Mattis warns of bumpy road to tense nuclear summit

The question of how to engage with a brutal, authoritarian regime has been a challenge for most presidents, but it has taken on heightened sensitivity as Trump prepares to meet Kim Jong Un in Singapore on June 12. No sitting president has ever met with a North Korean leader, and the summit will produce images that ricochet instantly around the globe.

For Trump - an impulsive and demonstrative president whose macho handshakes, scowls and thumbs-up poses are tailor-made for social media memes - the risk over his interactions with Kim go beyond the private talks at the bargaining table, former U.S. officials said.

"Photo ops of the two together, smiling, those are disseminated in North Korea to show the two leaders are equal," said Bill Richardson, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations who met with several dictators, including Iraq's Saddam Hussein, and made several trips to Pyongyang. "Trump should avoid the propaganda, the one-on-one smiling and hugging."

THE MUELLER PROBE: Report says Trump lawyers' letter to Mueller challenges subpoena

Yet Trump views the photos as a victory, too - a symbol that he is willing to discard the diplomatic conventions that have limited his predecessors and stymied their attempts to curb North Korea's nuclear program. White House aides said Trump's sudden decision in March to agree to the summit was made with the confidence that his own negotiating skills would quickly pay greater dividends than three decades of failed lower-level talks.

Time and again, Trump has also upended the more cautious diplomatic approaches of his predecessors in showing warmth toward authoritarian figures.

He treated Chinese President Xi Jinping to "the most beautiful piece of chocolate cake" during a lavish summit at Mar-a-Lago last year. He praised Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, who has presided over the extrajudicial killings of thousands of suspected drug dealers, for doing an "unbelievable job on the drug problem."

And Trump applauded Russian President Vladimir Putin in March for winning another term even though national security aides warned him in writing, "DO NOT CONGRATULATE," because the election was viewed as heavily manipulated.

"The Trump thesis of international diplomacy is the Trump thesis of New York real estate dealmaking, which is that step one is to establish a personal - individual or family to family - close relationship with your mark," said Daniel Russel, who served as a top Asia policy official in the Obama administration. "You build trust, don't talk business, establish camaraderie and allow the Trump charisma to steep and marinate to soften them up."

White House aides have emphasized that Trump's aim is to keep the door open to working with rival leaders on shared challenges despite their differences. Trump's meeting with Kim Yong Chol was a reciprocal gesture after Kim Jong Un met twice with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Pyongyang, the aides said.

It was not the first such meeting in the Oval Office. In October 2000, Clinton welcomed Jo Myong Rok, a top North Korean military official, who also presented Clinton with a letter from Kim Jong Il. But Clinton ultimately rejected Kim's invitation to a summit in Pyongyang.

Trump critics call his approach to foreign policy inconsistent and naive, handing his rivals unintended victories by allowing his instincts to undermine his own administration's strategy. On Friday, Trump said that, in the spirit of the diplomatic talks, he would no longer use the phrase "maximum pressure" to describe the administration's policy of economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation - even as his aides have vowed to keep the pressure on.

Historian Robert Dallek said presidents traditionally have been mindful of the optics when meeting authoritarian leaders. He pointed to President Dwight Eisenhower's aides cautioning him not to smile for photos during a meeting with Soviet Union officials after Joseph Stalin's death.

"They were very mindful of not wanting to appear to friendly and maybe taken into camp by the Soviet leaders," Dallek said. "In terms of domestic politics, it's a dangerous game if you seem to be too cozy with someone who has been your adversary."

With Trump, he added, "there's a feeling that he is so inexperienced and lacking in understanding of what he's dealing with. Certainly, he knows he's dealing with a dictatorial regime, but he seems to be so driven by his own desire for kudos and celebration of his own achievements."

In 2016, President Barack Obama visited Havana as part of his administration's restoration of diplomatic relations with Cuba after more than half a century. At the end of a joint news conference, Cuban leader Raul Castro attempted to raise Obama's arm in triumph, but Obama let his arm go limp.

An Obama aide told reporters that he had sought to deny Castro an "iconic photo" because the two sides still had significant disagreements.

For years, Trump and other Republicans had criticized Obama for cozying up to dictators and looking feckless and weak on the world stage. But after meeting with Kim Yong Chol for more than 90 minutes, Trump said the two did not discuss human rights - even though the Kim family regime has imprisoned tens of thousands of North Koreans in hard-labor camps and abducted American, Japanese and South Korean citizens.

"I don't do any more penance to these Republicans," said Hill, the former diplomat who was second-guessed during his negotiations with North Korea. "I did my best, held to a pretty hard line, but these guys complained we were appeasing North Korea. Where are they now?"ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia - Ethiopia's government approved a draft law Saturday to end the six-month state of emergency two months early; the latest sign of easing tensions under the new prime minister.

Since being selected two months ago by the ruling party to take over from his predecessor, who resigned in February, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has freed thousands of prisoners and toured the country listening to people's grievances. He has also reached out to opposition figures both inside and outside Ethiopia.

A number of opposition figures and experts have been cautiously optimistic that Abiy seeks to bring real democratic reform to Ethiopia.

The state of emergency was declared following the resignation of Hailemariam Desalegn as prime minister amid widespread strikes around the country, many of which disrupted supply and transportation links to the capital, Addis Ababa.

The state of emergency, the second in as many years, prohibited most gatherings and gave increased powers to security forces. It was justified on the grounds of widespread instability in the country.

"The Council of Ministers in its today's regular meeting reviewed the security situation of the country. It noted that law & order has been restored," Abiy's chief of staff, Fitsum Arega, announced on Twitter. "It has approved a draft law that lifts the State of Emergency."

Parliament, which is entirely controlled by the ruling party coalition, is expected to approve the law.

Ethiopia, Africa's second largest country by population and a key U.S. partner in the fight against extremist in the Horn of Africa, has been racked by instability for the past three years.

The two largest ethnic groups, the Oromo and the Amhara, making up two-thirds of the population, have been protesting the government over the lack of jobs and lack of political freedom. Hundreds have been killed by security and tens of thousands imprisoned.

"I am optimistic about Abiy, this measure is really encouraging even though it should have been lifted earlier," said Atnafu Berhane, a blogger that spent years in jail for his writings, was released, and then rearrested briefly under the state of emergency. "Once again he did the right thing, it's a good sign."

The accession of Abiy, an Oromo and now one of the youngest leaders on the continent at 42, appears to have defused a great deal of the tension in the country. He has authorized the release of thousands of prisoners, including Andargachew Tsige, a British citizen and leader of the opposition Ginbot 7, which the government had branded a terrorist group.

Andargachew, who was arrested by Yemeni authorities in 2014 and turned over to Ethiopia in 2014, returned to Britain on Friday.

While it has long had the trappings of a democracy, including elections and a parliament, Ethiopia has functioned as an authoritarian state with a ruling party coalition backed by a powerful military. The last two elections saw almost no opposition presence in the parliament.

Though a longtime member of the Oromo branch of the ruling coalition, Abiy has reached out to the opposition and encouraged them to return to politics.

On Friday he gave a speech to the military that made clear it had no role in the civilian politics of the country.

"We will face chaos if the army involves itself in party politics from A to Z or if it does so remotely like proxy war to influence outcomes," he said, adding that the military should serve any party that comes to power. "The army should be able to continue serving under the party that is elected by the people."Your polyester shirt may soon come with a warning label.

Lawmakers in California and New York have proposed state bills this year to raise awareness of a problem few consumers may have heard of -- synthetic fabrics shedding microfibers into the water system. Reminiscent of the plastic microbeads that were banned from cosmetics, garments made with polymer-based cloth can release as many as 1,900 microfibers per wash that eventually end up in waterways, one study shows.

But research is still at the early stages, and few are in agreement about what the best response is. The bills proposed in those two states suggest requiring that all new clothing made of more than 50 percent synthetic material carry an additional removable tag that reads: "This garment sheds plastic microfibers when washed." The retail industry is against those proposals, claiming they wouldn't solve anything -- and could create even more costs and problems.

"There's a lot of questions we don't know the answers to," said Nate Herman, senior vice president of supply chain at the American Apparel and Footwear Association, an industry trade group. "The concern with legislation is that it's getting ahead of the science."

Microfibers may pose a threat to waterways and aquatic life, according to activists and supporting research. Less than 5 millimeters long, they're not filtered by washing machines or water treatment plants and have been found in everything from bottled water to sea salt to fish.

Like plastic microbeads washed down the drain in cosmetics -- which President Barack Obama signed a law to phase out in 2015 -- the fibers are about the size of plankton, and many marine organisms may ingest the material when they're feeding. They may end up in people as well. About 83 percent of drinking water samples tested around the world contained microplastics, according to a study released last year.

Apparel tags or stickers would be an opportunity to raise awareness that microfiber pollution is a problem in the first place, said Rachel Sarnoff, executive director of the plastic pollution advocacy nonprofit 5 Gyres Institute. Sarnoff's organization encourages consumers to wash their clothes less often, use efficient front-loading washers and add another filter designed to catch microfibers to their machines. Her group isn't trying to get consumers to give up synthetic fibers altogether, but to be more aware of their possible environmental reach.

"There are certain places you're not going to give up those synthetics," Sarnoff said. "If you do wear synthetics, it's good to be aware of their impact, especially when you wash them in a machine. We have to look at ways to control the shedding."

The New York bill was introduced May 8 by assemblymember Felix Ortiz, who has also tried to eliminate single-use plastic bags in the state. It's pending with the environmental conservation committee.

California assemblymember Richard Bloom, the author of that state's bill, also wrote the state act that led to the plastic microbead ban. He said the response from the apparel and retail industry representatives to his bill has been "fairly negative," with some even denying the problem exists.

Retailers say they want more research on the issue. Laws mandating labels in New York and California would effectively force the companies to label all garments they sell nationwide due to the size of those states. That's costly, said Herman of the American Apparel and Footwear Association. And dissuading consumers from buying synthetic fabrics doesn't acknowledge the environmental impacts of other materials, like the volume of land and water required to grow and harvest cotton, he said.

It's not even clear that fabrics are the most to blame. It could be that garments become more prone to shed as they age, or that top-loading washing machines agitate pieces into releasing fibers. Car tires have also been linked to shedding microplastics, which could be a big contributing factor to the problem.

"They're not offering a solution in labeling requirements; it just gives a bad name to polyester clothing without solving the issue," Herman said. "A label doesn't educate consumers."

Retailers prefer the approach presented in Connecticut legislation or a similar tactic suggested in a competing California bill -- increasing research or forming a working group to look into the issue.

Bloom and environmental activists acknowledge synthetic fabrics like polyester will never be banned -- consumers need them for everything from fire safety to swimsuits.

"We're all wearing polyester clothing, myself included," Bloom said. Longer term, "this is an issue that demands creativity -- this is an issue we don't solve by adding a hangtag."Rescuers cradled it in a shallow canal, their arms wrapped around its slick, shuddering body. It could not eat and struggled to swim and breathe. Red umbrellas were opened above it to block the harsh sun.

It was a race against time to save the male pilot whale, slowly dying after it was discovered Monday in Thailand near the Malaysian border.

A team of rescuers deployed buoys to keep the mammal from slipping into the water and drowning as veterinarians tended to it. It vomited five plastic bags during the rescue attempt.

The whale died Friday after a five-day fight, the country's Department of Marine and Coastal Resources said, becoming the latest high-profile incident of marine life forced to live in oceans littered with human trash.

An autopsy revealed dozens of plastic bags jamming the whale's stomach, weighing 17 pounds in all, the agency wrote on Facebook.

Photos posted to social media showed so many long, black plastic bags that authorities were running out of room to maneuver in the operating room without standing on trash. A bundle of white plastic is shown next to innards stretching across an operating table.

Thai officials said they believe the whale mistook the floating plastic for food. Pilot whales primarily eat squid but are also known to hunt octopus, cuttlefish and small fish when squid prove elusive, the American Cetacean Society said.

Thon Thamrongnawasawat, a marine biologist and lecturer at Kasetsart University in Bangkok, told Agence France-Presse that the plastic probably prevented the whale from digesting food.

"If you have 80 plastic bags in your stomach, you die," he said, adding that at least 300 marine animals, including pilot whales, sea turtles and dolphins, die annually after ingesting plastic in Thai waters.

More than 5 trillion pieces of trash - and counting - are in the world's oceans, according to a 2014 study. Of that, nearly 270,000 tons of large and small plastic debris are on the surface.

A study published last year found that 83 percent of water samples from more than a dozen nations were contaminated with plastic fibers.

It was unclear whether the whale was a short-finned or long-finned pilot whale, although short-finned pilots commonly traverse the warmer waters typical of Southeast Asia. Males grow up to 20 feet and weigh up to three tons, with females topping out at 16 feet and 1.5 tons, according to the American Cetacean Society.

Trash in the ocean has affected other whale species.

In April, a 33-foot sperm whale weighing nearly 15,000 pounds was found dead on a Spanish beach. More than 60 pounds of trash clogged its digestive system.

And in 2016, some of the more than 30 beached sperm whales beached in Europe were found with plastic debris in their stomachs, National Geographic reported, including a large fishing net, an engine cover and shards of a plastic bucket.

---

The Washington Post's Kristine Phillips contributed to this report.Morgan County

Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Rebecca L. Marit, 37, of Butler was booked into the Morgan County jail at 4:13 a.m. Saturday on a warrant accusing her of possession of methamphetamine.

Jacksonville Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Harley M. Clark, 25, of 34 N. Green St., Winchester, was arrested about 4:30 a.m. Saturday on a charge of domestic battery.

 Jeffery W. Clark, 31, of 953 E. College Ave. was arrested about 4:10 p.m. Saturday on a charge of criminal trespass to property.

 Aisha R. Jackaron, 22, of Quincy was arrested about 5:30 p.m. Saturday on a charge of driving while license is suspended.

Compiled by Greg OlsonSEOUL - Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has expressed interest in traveling to North Korea to meet Kim Jong Un, North Korean media reported Sunday, adding another layer of possible intrigue onto the planning for next week's summit between President Donald Trump and the North Korean leader.

The report by the state-run KCNA news agency gave no details on the timing for a possible trip by Assad, who has rarely left Syria since the country's civil war erupted more than seven years ago. There also was no immediate comment from Syrian officials.

But even the suggestion of Assad's outreach to North Korea is certain to ripple through White House efforts to define an agenda for the planned June 12 summit in Singapore between Trump and Kim. It also reflects Kim's push to shed his reclusive image and seek wider contacts, including apparent efforts underway to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The KCNA report said Assad made the comments about a possible trip to North Korea last Tuesday while receiving the credentials of the North Korean ambassador. The report did not say why it took almost a week to note Assad's purported comments.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet HE Kim Jong Un," Assad was quoted saying in the report, using the initials for North Korea's official name and referring to Kim using letters that stand for "his excellency."

Assad's only trips outside Syria since 2011 have been several trips to key ally Russia, most recently in May.

The exact scope of the discussions planned for the Singapore summit remains unclear. The Trump administration hopes the Singapore summit will bring clear pledges from Kim to being rolling back the country's nuclear program. The North, meanwhile, has noted possible stumbling blocks for the talks, including denunciations of upcoming military exercises involving the United States and South Korea.

But Kim has also conducted his own parallel outreach - holding two meetings with South Korea's president, Moon Jae-in, and sending envoys to meet with teams from the South on other initiatives such as possible gatherings for families separated by the Korean War more than 60 years ago.

In addition, Kim has made two trips to China in recent months and met Thursday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Syria and North Korea have maintained close relations for decades. A Syrian nuclear reactor destroyed in an Israeli airstrike in 2007 was believed to be built partly on North Korean designs.I had the pleasure of spending a morning with Lila Cockrell recently in anticipation of Older Americans month, which was observed in May. Our senior population has grown from less than 9 percent when Older Americans Month was established in 1963 to more than 15 percent today.

Lila Cockrell exemplified this years Engage at Any Age theme because she has been involved in municipal and community service in San Antonio for more than six decades, serving five terms on City Council and four as mayor, improving tourism and the economy while championing gender and ethnic equality. She was instrumental in the River Walk as we know it today, bringing Valero to San Antonio and the creation of HemisFair Park.

Cockrell was inducted into the Texas Womens Hall of Fame in 1984, and now, more than 30 years later, at 96, she is still involved in the community through various boards and committees.

Cockrell answered the door of her condo in Alamo Heights and showed us into a living space saturated in shades of red, with every wall speaking of music, painting and dance. We settled in, with her gray cat Yum Yum creeping around our feet, and began talking about art. One of the first things she mentioned was how grateful she was to be able, at 96, to still live on her own, thanks to her grandson.

In addition to her gratitude, she wanted to talk about her friends and family, bragging on each one in turn. Here we are to talk about her, and the first thing she did was start gushing on everyone elses skills, character and accomplishments. As I learned over the course of the morning, thats how Cockrell operates.

She has lived many places in her life and in each one, she was compelled to get involved and do her part. When asked what drove that aspect of her character, she took it back to her mother, who always volunteered at church and school. It goes back to who you are, she said, You need to give of yourself in some way.

She described the struggles of the community during the Great Depression and how proud she was of her mother, always giving what she had. During those times when money was so tight, what she had was time, serving as PTA president, volunteering at church and being what Cockrell called a gracious hostess.

Moving from Dallas to San Antonio in 1956, Cockrell resolved to stay home and mind my own business and learn to sew. Fortunately for San Antonio, it didnt work out the way shed planned.

But what happened to the sewing machine? I think I still have it! she said, her face breaking into a big smile. She made one formal for each of her daughters and realized she didnt really enjoy sewing. By the time she came to that conclusion, shed already been elected president of the League of Women Voters.

Cockrells overarching message is one of gratitude. Even on the subject of community engagement, she expresses gratitude that she is still able to be involved. She recognizes that it can be a challenge for older people as a number of seniors enter that period of life with less than adequate financial resources.

In spite of the impact she made on the city, whose ripples can still be felt decades later, she wanted to thank you, the residents of San Antonio. She smiled and scratched Yum Yums head as she said, The city of San Antonio gave me such a wonderful privilege and I enjoyed every minute of it. I hope I gave back as much as I got.

Leslie Townsend is director of business development with Companion Hospice & Palliative Care.When you take your 15-year-old son for a physical exam, the pediatrician goes through a standard procedure  checks his weight, measures his height, takes his blood pressure. But typically, he will not be asked about his mood or whether he ever wants to hurt himself.

As a psychiatrist, I cant help but question this practice. Teens are more likely to be depressed than have hypertension. Unfortunately, our society tends to ignore the mental health of teenagers until theres an overdose or other tragedy. The time has come for doctors to reach out to teens who need help before they have a crisis.

The mass shooting carried out by a student at Sante Fe High School south of Houston has once again put a spotlight on mental health, with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and others recommending screenings as one way to deter more shootings.

We dont know whether mental illness had anything to do with the recent school shooting, and we should not assume that theres a mental health issue every time someone commits a mass shooting. But I strongly support the idea of mental health screening for teens  most important, to protect themselves and help them to lead productive lives.

More young people are struggling with depression. Suicides, the No. 2 cause of death for teens, have risen dramatically in recent years  up about 70 percent between 2006 and 2016, according to federal statistics. Nearly 13 percent of adolescents ages 12 to 17 had a major depressive episode in 2016, up from 8 percent in 2006. The rise of online bullying, family and school stresses, trauma and substance abuse are among the factors contributing to this problem.

The medical profession has slowly been recognizing the need for action. In 2016, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended all patients older than 12 be screened for depression. Earlier this year, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued guidelines for physicians to routinely screen children 12 and older for depression during regular office visits, following a similar call for adults.

Sadly, many primary care doctors are reluctant to assess a patients mental state because they havent had adequate training to treat depression or other mental conditions. And many parents fear that probing their childrens feelings will only make them feel worse.

But this is a myth. Scientific evidence has shown that you cant bring on depression just by asking someone about it. And not asking teens if they are suicidal is no way to reduce suicides.

To reverse the trend, we must educate parents about how to openly discuss the topic and provide pediatricians and primary care doctors with the training and tools they need to diagnose and treat mental illness.

In North Texas, my team at UT Southwestern Medical Center has launched an outreach campaign in area school districts, bringing trained facilitators, under the supervision of a psychologist, into classrooms to discuss mental health and suicide prevention with middle and high school students. So far, we have reached more than 8,000 students, and schools report that more teens are opening up to teachers, guidance counselors and parents, and seeking help.

To help primary care doctors and pediatricians, we have developed an innovative web-based application, VitalSign6, to enhance health care access and the standard of care for those affected by depression. Through its use, physicians have access to validated depression screening and assessment tools that measure associated symptoms and provide clinical decision support for treating depression.

There remains a stigma attached to mental illness in our society, but continuing a dont ask, dont tell approach is not the way to go. We are losing too many of our children.

Routine screening for mental health conditions, as well as early diagnosis and intervention, can change the course of  and perhaps even save  a young persons life.

Madhukar H. Trivedi is director of the Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care at UT Southwestern Medical Centers Peter ODonnell Jr. Brain Institute in Dallas.The local community in South Longford where the development of a wind farm has been proposed has expressed serious concerns this week over wind energy guidelines in respect of such developments.

Niall Dennigan of the No to Derryadd Windfarm group which met with Fianna Fail Spokesperson on Communications, Climate Action and Environment Timmy Dooley TD, and Cllr Joe Flaherty recently to discuss those concerns in more detail says the 2006 guidelines on wind energy are no longer appropriate to deal with the scale of these developments.

Deputy Dooley listened to what we had to say; we told him about our concerns too in relation to the 2006 guidelines which deal with wind energy when turbines were a lot smaller, he added.

These days the turbines on windfarms are much larger which leads to more complications for the locality in which they are based.

We want to see new guidelines published around the whole area of wind energy.

Meanwhile, Mr Dennigan also updated the Leader on the rift that has developed between the community in Lanesboro and Bord na Mona.

The company removed itself from all discussions with the local community before Christmas after objections were made in relation to its windfarm proposals.

Bord na Mona is still not communicating with any of us in relation to the windfarm, added Mr Dennigan.

It appears that its their way or the highway.

Deputy Dooley said that he would bring our concerns to Bord na Mona when he meets with the company in a few weeks time.

In a letter to the Group last November, communications manager, Bord na Mona Pat Fitzgerald said that because of the communitys decision to reject the companys proposals to form a subgroup it felt the Forum had reached a point where it was unlikely to be productive as it was currently constituted and has therefore decided not to proceed with further meetings of the Forum.

We will however, continue to use other channels available to us to communication and engage as appropriate with residents and other stakeholders relevant to the proposed Derryadd Wind Farm development, the letter stated.

Fianna Fail General Election candidate for Longford/Westmeath, Cllr Joe Flaherty has since called on the Government to publish new wind energy guidelines and ensure that the concerns of communities like those he represents are reflected in the terms.

Its clear after meeting with representatives of the No to Derryadd Windfarm that they have reasonable concerns that will have to be taken on board, he added.

Local people are also disappointed by the lack of engagement undertaken by Bord na Mona in relation to the project and this is something that both Deputy Dooley and I will be raising with the company.

Its important that the concerns raised by the local community are taken on board and dealt with in a comprehensive manner.

Cllr Flaherty went on to say that the situation had become very serious because the delay in publishing new guidelines meant that communities across the country were stuck with the old ones for the foreseeable future.

Windfarm proposals will continue to be considered under guidelines which are obsolete and are no longer fit for purpose, especially in view of the height of some of the new turbines which was never contemplated by the original 2006 guidelines, the general election candidate continued.

The Government needs to get its act together and publish new guidelines.



We cannot continue to have situations where windfarms are built in close proximity to peoples homes, schools and community centres.

Read Also: New guidelines hold key to Derryadd wind farm proposalA judge has agreed to hear a case of an alleged assault of a man in Drumlish by his uncle just over a year ago.

Liam Brady said he still suffers flashbacks from an alleged incident at Bawn, Drumlish on March 27 last year which resulted in damage to his teeth that stemmed from a punch he claims came from his uncle, Peter Brady.

The accused, also of Bawn, Drumlish was later charged with assault in accordance with Section 3 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997.

The victim said he had been standing at the back door of his uncles property when he claimed Mr Brady accused him of poisoning cattle 20 years ago, before shouting: You deserve a box in the mouth.

He said following the alleged altercation, his dentist managed to reinstate his front teeth with stitches also being inserted in his lip.

Asked by Judge Hughes whether he still was encountering any pain some 14 months on from the alleged episode, Mr Brady said: They (teeth) are very sensitive. Hot and cold drinks give me awful discomfort.

He added his dentist had also advised him further reconstructive work would be necessary, adding that he has also been referred to counselling sessions by his local GP.

Mr Brady, however, admitted he had only undertook one session so far for flashbacks and different things.

Judge Hughes attempted to probe Mr Brady further by suggesting he might be best advised to move on with his life.

At the end of the day it was a belt to the mouth and you got a couple of teeth broken.

Judge Hughes accepted jurisdiction, meaning the case was deemed suitable to be heard at District Court level.

It was subsequently put back to a special sitting of Longford District Court on July 2.Killoe naive Shauna Caherly is currently gearing herself up for the trip of a lifetime as she prepares to volunteer in one of the most poverty stricken regions in Africa this July.

The Longford woman has been busy fundraising for the programme and after setting up her GoFundMe Page, she them embarked upon two local fundraising campaigns - a table quiz in Killoe and a subsequent Coffee Morning in Cullyfad Community Centre after Mass last Sunday.

As a result of the generosity and support she received, Shauna has now exceeded her target of 2,500 to travel to Nansana, Uganda this summer to work with children affected by HIV.

She is still collecting money for the organisation and anyone wishing to donate to this very worthy cause can do so on the GoFundMe Page.

The generosity of people has been amazing, smiled Shauna talking to the Leader at the weekend.

I have reached my funding target now which is 2,500 so Im delighted with that, but I am still collecting money so people can continue to donate if they wish to do so.

Meanwhile the Killoe native has just completed a degree in Science Education at University of Limerick (UL).

And while she admits that it was tough going, both she and her classmates got there in the end and are now qualified in Biology, Chemistry and Ag Science for Senior Cycle and in Research Science.

Im delighted to be out now and looking for a job, added Shauna before pointing out that she wont have to do a HDip either as that aspect was included in the degree course.

It was like doing two degrees in one to be honest with you and while it was great to get it all done in four years, it was tough going during that time.

I have a teaching degree and a science degree, so I have some options, but Im happy enough to go with the teaching end of it for now - thats what I wanted to do.

But before she knuckles down in earnest to looking for those all important jobs, Shauna will undertake the three week volunteering programme with Nurture Africa and travel to Nansana, where she will teach in the local school and work with children affected by HIV.

Nurture Africa, meanwhile, is an Irish founded internationally registered non-governmental organisation that works in Uganda with a targeted focus on Healthcare, Education, Child Protection, Gender Equality and Economic Empowerment through business training and micro-finance projects.

Nansana is like a small town in Uganda and when I go there I will be teaching in the local schools, said Shauna, before pointing to the work that Nurture Africa does and how it centres around children and helps to empower them.

The organisation facilitates structured and tailored short term overseas volunteer placements for second and third level students and professionals willing to offer their invaluable time, skills and energy in order to assist the effort. It also aims to nurture the physical and emotional development of children in the region who are infected with or affected by HIV, by providing access to healthcare and education.

It also focuses on education, healthcare and gender equality and helps children to build themselves out of poverty; when I arrive there I will be teaching 3rd class and there is 90 children in the class, so that is going to be challenging!.

Shauna will engage in an extensive programme of learning and educating when she arrives in the region in July.

Ill be teaching in the morning and then in the evening we will be doing home visits; Ill be teaching English, Maths, Art, Science and a little bit of PE, she smiled before pointing out that Nurture Africa also established a maternity ward in the town in recent times and it has had a positive impact on the lives of the people living there.

I am hoping that I will get to see that healthcare facility when I get there.

There are already many positive developments underway in Nansana, the Longford woman continued.

At the moment there is a focus on providing children with food with they arrive at school because in a lot of cases in Nansana children only eat once a day.

They are going to start harvesting oats at the school and then they will provide the children with porridge when they arrive for classes.

One of the saddest facts about Nansana is that almost everyone living there is either infected or affected by HIV.

That, says Shauna, is why Nurture Africa remains so focused on educating people.

Even minor illness that we would take for granted here in Ireland are a huge deal for people living in Uganda because there is simply very little treatment available to them, she added.

Nurture Africa actually employs a lot of natives in the region and teaches them skills like cooking, tailoring and hairdressing so that they can work and are employable.

Shauna says too that this volunteering effort has always been something she wanted to do, and so she took the bull by the horns this year and committed to the trip.

Another girl from Mullingar whom Shauna knows is also travelling to Nansana and she is delighted to have that additional support behind her.

I have always wanted to do something like this; something really drew me to this particular initiative, she smiled.

I feel that we have so much in this country and yet there is this view that everyone is so poverty stricken in Africa.

And, while we all appreciate that there is a lot of poverty, there is also a lot of happiness among people who have a lot less than we have.

I think it would be a very humbling for me to experience that.

On this side of the world we have become so materialistic and just because others dont live like that doesnt mean they are not happy.

I think that it is important to experience the way people live in impoverished countries.

For the meantime, Shauna is focusing on the trip and enjoying her new found freedom after four years of study!

I loved Limerick and I had a great four years there but Im not sorry to be finished studying for a while though, she laughed.

Im Back in Longford now for the summer and Killoe is a great place to live.

I love it there and I would love to live and settle down in Longford.

You dont meet people like those in Longford anywhere else - they are the salt of the earth.

I want to thank everyone so much for all their support and help.The local racecourse with its state of the art facilities is the venue for the event which once again has succeeded in attracting some of the biggest names in the country music scene including Nathan Carter, Mike Denver, Robert Mizzell, Patrick Feeney, Philomena Begley, Brendan Shine, Louise Morrissey, Cliona Hagan, Johnny Brady, Gerry Guthrie, Daniel ODouble and many many more.

Speaking to The Longford Leader this week concert promoter and Shannonside Northern Sound broadcaster Joe Finnegan welcomed the fact that the event is returning to Roscommon Town for the sixth year.

Im just thrilled that the top names from Irelands country music industry will be joining us again in Roscommon, he added.

We want to make the show even more special than last year and again we are very excited about the family aspect of the day with the return of our special childrens play area and some new fun attractions.

Visitroscommon.com and Roscommon County Council are the partners of this year's event and it has been confirmed that following the main event, Mike Denver and his Band will provide the music at the special festival dance in The Abbey Hotel.

Tickets are now on sale at ticketmaster.ie and can be purchased locally in ETL Roscommon; Mulveys House of Gifts Carrick on Shannon; Toweys Ballaghadereen; Golden Discs Athlone; Donlons Newsagents, Longford; Joe OBrien, Lanesboro; McDonaghs Topaz, Boyle and ticketmaster.ie. Tickets can also be purchased at the Shannonside Northern Sound studios in Longford. Gates open at 12 midday the Show starts at 2pm. Free parking on site.

More details are available on the Shannonside website and Facebook Page.Advertisement

Researcher Trine Moholdt in NTNU's Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging collaborated on the study with cardiologist Carl J. Lavie at the John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute in New Orleans, and Javaid Nauman at NTNU.They studied 3307 individuals (1038 women) with coronary heart disease from HUNT. Data from HUNT constitute Norway's largest collection of health information about a population. A total of 120,000 people have consented to making their anonymized health information available for research, and nearly 80,000 individuals have released blood tests.HUNT patients were examined in 1985, 1996 and 2007, and followed up to the end of 2014. The data from HUNT were compared with data from the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry.During the 30-year period, 1493 of the participants died and 55 per cent of the deaths were due to cardiovascular disease."This study is important because we've been able to look at change over time, and not many studies have done that, so I am forever grateful to HUNT and the HUNT participants," said Moholdt.The study revealed that people who are physically active live longer than those who are not. Sustained physical activity over time was associated with substantially lower mortality risk.Participants in the study were divided into three categories: inactive; slightly physically active, but below recommended activity level; and physically active at or above recommended activity level.The recommended activity level is at least 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity or 60 minutes per week of vigorous physical activity.The risk of premature death was higher for the group of patients who were completely inactive than for either of the other groups. The prognosis for people who exercise a little bit, even if it is below the recommended level, is better than not exercising at all."Even being somewhat active is better than being inactive, but patients have to maintain the activity level. Physical activity is perishable - if you snooze you lose its benefits," Moholdt says.HUNT participants were asked how hard the exercise activity was for them. Moholdt points out that this is a good way to determine the intensity of the exercise. A half-hour walk can be experienced very differently depending on how fit the person is.The question then becomes how to translate these findings into practical guidelines."The clinical guidelines for heart disease patients currently include having normal weight and being physically active. I would put more emphasis on the exercise aspect. When it comes to physical activity, you have to do what gets you in better shape. That means training with high intensity. Do something that makes you breathe hard, so that it's hard to talk, but not so hard that you can't do it for four to five minutes," says Moholdt. She adds that heart disease patients are often in poor shape, so it often doesn't take much to get into high intensity mode.When asked whether any of the study results were unexpected, Moholdt said that they weren't surprising in terms of physical activity. "But the fact that gaining weight posed no increased risk when patients were already overweight, I think is a bit surprising," she said.The results indicate that weight gain does not seem to increase risk for already overweight patients, which would mean that it isn't dangerous for a fat heart patient to gain a few pounds. What is dangerous is if the person does not engage in any form of exercise.The findings in the study showed higher mortality among normal weight heart patients who lost weight. Moholdt points out that the survey is an observation study that does not look at underlying causes. It may be that patients who lost weight were sicker.The development of cardiovascular disease has a causal relationship with obesity. Despite this strong correlation, the results from major meta-analyses indicate that people with cardiovascular disease who have a body mass index (BMI) above the normal weight range have better prognoses. This is often called the obesity paradox."What we've known for a while is that for heart patients it seems to be an advantage to be fat - the so-called obesity paradox. But although it seems like it pays to be overweight and that weight loss affects these patients adversely, all of these data are based on observation studies. To prove causality, randomized controlled trials are needed," says Moholdt.The relationship between BMI and life expectancy is complicated and depends on several factors. Erroneous sources are plentiful. Results from another analysis showed that normal weight, healthy non-smokers have the lowest risk of premature death.This study's results do not mean that it is never a good idea for an overweight heart patient to slim down. Moholdt and her colleagues note in their JACC article that "in our view, desired or intentional weight reduction may be useful for overweight or obese individuals, although little data supports this view in studies of coronary heart disease patients."One hypothesis is that weight loss is associated with improved survival among overweight and obese coronary heart disease patients. This correlation was not evident in the study."It may be that weight is less important for heart patients, but we know that physical activity is very important," Moholdt says.She believes that many people start exercising to lose weight, and then quit when they don't get the desired results in the form of weight loss.Moholdt encourages people to get rid of their bathroom scale. She says that numerous studies have shown that body composition changes through exercise and that muscles weigh more than fat."Exercise has a beneficial effect on all organs in the body - on the brain, heart, liver, vascular system and of course on our musculature," she says.Source: EurekalertAdvertisement

15 percent of immunosuppressed patients with sepsis died during hospitalization compared to 12 percent of non-immunosuppressed patients with sepsis at all hospitals.

At hospitals seeing fewer than 225 immunosuppressed patients with sepsis each year, these patients were 38 percent more likely to die while hospitalized, compared to 21 percent more likely to die at hospitals that saw 225 or more of these patients yearly.

Above 225, caring for greater numbers of immunosuppressed patients with sepsis (one hospital treated 1,056 such patients) did not appear to reduce mortality.

Immunosuppressed patients with sepsis were more likely than non- immunosuppressed patients to return to their homes after discharge, rather than another health facility, 60 percent vs. 50 percent, respectively.

"While there is a lot of focus on improving sepsis outcomes through early interventions, some patients have poor outcomes from sepsis because their chronic medical conditions may worsen after the initial infectious insult," said Dr. Greenberg, an assistant professor and critical care physician at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. "We hypothesized that septic patients who are immunocompromised may have improved outcomes if they are managed at hospitals that have the most experience managing immunocompromising conditions."The study found:The authors said this last finding was a surprise. They believe that non-immunosuppressed patients may have been more likely to be experiencing declining states of health prior to sepsis than immunosuppressed patients, as they were more likely to be older and to be admitted directly from other health care facilities.Researchers adjusted their findings for a range of factors, including severity of sepsis when hospitalized, other medical problems and whether a patient's infection was hospital acquired.Study results do not explain why immunosuppressed patients fared better at hospitals treating large numbers of such patients. They speculate that "immunosuppressed patients with sepsis had improved survival at hospitals where clinicians had greater familiarity caring for immunosuppressed patients."Without this familiarity, the authors write, physicians might miss atypical signs of sepsis in an immunocompromised patient and therefore miss the opportunity to treat the disease early before it gets out of control. It is also possible that the physicians may not comply with the Surviving Sepsis Campaign's international guidelines for clinical care, which many studies have shown reduce sepsis mortality, according to the authors.Dr. Greenberg said the study is important for administrators and clinicians focused on improving quality of sepsis care because "patients with a medical condition that is relatively uncommon at a hospital may have worse outcomes from sepsis than patients with the same conditions who are managed at hospitals where the condition is more common."He added that more research was necessary to determine the "mechanism of this finding" before suggesting that an immunosuppressed patient should seek out a specific hospital based on the number of immunosuppressed patients treated by that hospital.Source: EurekalertChina was the exception, with domestic billet prices improving because of lower supply.Southeast Asias billet imports were again affected by soft demand, and few offers were reported.The latest offers from East Asia were at prices as low as $547 per tonne cfr Philippines, while CIS suppliers were asking for $560 per tonne cfr.No Chinese export offers were reported because Chinas domestic prices started improving early in the week. Previously, cheaper Chinese materials had pushed Southeast Asias prices down slightly during the week to May 28 Billet from Central Asia was heard sold to the Philippines at around $550-555 per tonne cfr.Filipino buyers still refrained from purchasing due to the rainy season in the country, while those in Indonesia were staying away from the market mainly due to the reduced activity caused by the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which will end in mid-June.Chinas domestic prices are continuing to rebound a little today, which may create some stability in [Southeast Asias import] prices soon, a Vietnam-based trader said on Thursday.Chinas domestic billet segment began to recover from Tuesday onward [LINK], after the previous weeks downtrend. The countrys rebar market also moved up steadily during the week amid decreasing stockpiles.Prices were 3,670 yuan ($573) per tonne on Friday, down by 50 yuan per tonne from a week earlier.Low inventory levels might push the billet price up, sources said. Total inventory for the semi-finished product in Tangshan was 280,000 tonnes on Friday, down by 70,000 tonnes from a week before, according to a billet trader in the city.Chinese mills were not planning to take export orders for billet due to the higher prices in the domestic market.CIS billet export prices kept sliding during the week due to sluggish trading and downward pressure from weaker Turkish scrap import prices.Few deals were concluded because of the wide bid-offer spread.CIS offers were mostly within the range of $510-515 per tonne fob Black Sea on Friday, down from $512-520 per tonne fob on Tuesday.But buyers said the workable price was nearer $495-505 per tonne fob.A 10,000-tonne cargo from Russias Rostov Electric Steel Mill (REMZ) was said to be sold to a trader at around $498 per tonne fob Black Sea. But REMZ prices are not included in Metal Bulletins assessment because the mill does not supply material regularly and its prices are lower than market levels. After the latest assessment was filed on Wednesday , sources said that a 15,000-tonne cargo from Novolipetsk Steel (NLMK) was sold to Egypt at $502 per tonne fob Black Sea.There were also rumors of bookings to Turkey at $500 per tonne fob, although sources could not confirm the information.In Turkey, billet import prices continued to soften over the week ended Thursday , tracking the downturn in the countrys scrap import prices.CIS suppliers lowered their billet offers to Turkey to $530-535 per tonne cfr, whereas Turkish buyers indicated their interest at $515-520 per tonne cfr.No significant deals have been reported in recent weeks.Meanwhile, Turkeys export prices for billet also weakened in line with the poorer scrap values.Some Turkish mills have started to focus on exporting billet, while the rebar export market was slow, a Turkish source said.Some export bookings for Turkish billet were made to Egypt at $520-525 per tonne fob, the source added.In the United Arab Emirates, uncertainty over the possibility of the US reintroducing trade sanctions on Iran kept billet import prices unchanged during the week ended May 29.Iranian billet offers to the UAE stood at $520-530 per tonne cfr, but bids were only at $495-500 per tonne cfr.As for rebar in the UAE, domestic prices for the long product rose amid optimism among producers about demand. Iranian export prices for billet softened in the week ended Thursday due to the threat of US sanctions.The few offers heard from Iranian mills were around $510-515 per tonne fob. But no transactions were heard within participants estimate of workable prices of $500-505 per tonne fob. Egypts billet import prices also declined during the week to Thursday, due to limited demand and thin trading activity during Ramadan.Deals were heard at $522-535 per tonne cfr, while offers for CIS-origin billet to Egypt were heard at $535 per tonne cfr.Domestic rebar prices in Egypt were flat in the quiet market.Jessica Zong in Shanghai, Vlada Novokreshchenova in Dnepr, Serife Durmus in Bursa, Felipe Peroni in Sao Paulo and Cem Turken in Mugla contributed to this report.HURLBURT FIELD, Florida -- The U.S. Air Force plans to double the number of Combat Aviation Advisors it sends to train partners on special operations missions at a time when the Defense Department's footprint in austere environments has come under scrutiny.

Under guidance in the National Defense Strategy, Air Force Special Operations Command is preparing to grow each of its teams, developing a planned total of 352 total force integration advisors over the next few years, officials said. The CAA mission, under Special Operations Command, has about half that now.

"This is really a second line of effort for [Defense] Secretary [Jim] Mattis," said Lt. Col. Steve Hreczkosij, deputy director of Air Advisor operations at AFSOC.

Military.com spoke with Combat Aviation Advisors here during a trip to the base last month, accompanying Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson.

Related content:

"This is AFSOC's foreign internal defense force," Hreczkosij said, referring to the U.S. mission to provide support to other governments fighting internal threats such as terrorists, lawlessness or drug activity.

The goal is to sustain five year-round advisory sites around the world by fiscal 2023, Hreczkosij said.

"That might mean five countries, that might mean five major lines of effort  but that is our resourcing strategy goal to influence five locations," he said.

An Elite Unit

The expansion comes at a time when the U.S. military is operating in smaller teams in remote regions of the world such as Africa and Southeast Asia. But the move doesn't necessarily indicate plans to work in additional countries and the idea isn't to make the force permanent.

Still, officials know it takes time to train partners and allies, such as the Afghan National Security Forces, who are employing A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft as well as Pilatus PC-12NG planes converted into intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms.

While Air Combat Command and Air Mobility Command work with partner nations in similar ways, Combat Aviation Advisors are the U.S. militarys most advanced team to train foreign partners battling tough scenarios, said Lt. Col. Cheree Kochen, who is assigned to the Irregular Warfare Plans division at the Air Force Special Operations Warfare Center.

That's why their mission is unlike the basic training Afghan and Lebanese pilots get learning how to fly the A-29 Super Tucano at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Kochen said.

"This is the advanced flying -- flying on night-vision goggles, airdrop, infiltration and exfiltration" as well as intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, she said.

"We are authorized to get in partner nation aircraft and fly on their missions," Hreczkosij said. "We integrate, we embed. We live in their squadron building. Our approach is an enduring and integrated approach to make sure they really embed this technique, mission or equipment into how they do business."

The air commando unit also sets the agenda for how host nation troops should learn and equip themselves based on U.S. and host nation goals.

"We also do security force assistance, which is kind of the catch-all term for mil-to-mil partnerships," Hreczkosij said. "We provide that last tactical mile."

The support is "about SOF mobility, ISR advising and armed reconnaissance. We're certainly not dropping bombs," he said, adding, "it's not an attacking sort of mission. It's more of a 'target of opportunity,' then you can see it."

Why Not Contractors?

Not all partnerships are the same. NATO special operations forces and those in more austere environments vary in training, skill level and mission set, officials said.

Countries CAA troops regularly deal with include Afghanistan, Cameroon, Uganda, Kenya, Mauritania, Mali, Tunisia, Chad and the Philippines.

"We don't care what type of airplane our partners are flying," Hreczkosij said.

The unit is, however, looking to acquire more C-208s, dubbed AC-208s when equipped with Hellfire missiles, here at Hurlburt to practice on and or take as trainer aircraft to countries eager to build a force of their own.

The unit commonly uses PC-6, C-208 and PC-12NG ISR aircraft; C-145/M-28, BT-67 and C-308 mobility aircraft; and AT-802, AC-235 and AC-208 armed recon aircraft.

Kochen said an upcoming project includes operations in Nepal, in which advisers are taking C-145 Skytrucks retired from nearby Duke Field in Florida and giving members maintenance training before aerial operations begin.

It isn't uncommon for contractors to have a role in host nation troops' basic pilot training either in the U.S. or overseas, she said.

But using contractors lacks "the integrated piece. It's why we try to partner with a ground SOF unit so we can tie the two together. Contractors don't necessarily have those relationships with the ground SOF that we do," Kochen said.

Hreczkosij agreed. "Contractors aren't in the current fight, so they don't get the current [tactics, techniques, and procedures] with other forces in the field, and they don't always have the trust of the partner nation," he said. "If I'm sitting across from, say, an airman in sub-Saharan Africa ... and we're both wearing a uniform, we have a common understanding."

Without naming the region, Kochen discussed a case in which contractors were overly bullish about their training, sometimes anticipating that the foreign trainees could learn faster on an aircraft than they actually could. It's led to a few crashes in recent years because "the country was doing tactics that were a little bit dangerous for them for their skill level," she said.

Hreczkosij added, "There's a place for contractors. It's just not in this place."

Standing On Their Own

AFSOC's 6th Special Operations Squadron, along with the Reserve's 711th Special Operations Squadron out of Duke Field, make up the only Combat Aviation Advisor mission in the Air Force.

There are 16 Air Force Specialty Codes within the mission, including instructors, pilots, maintainers, and Tactical Air Control Party airmen, among others. Team members can speak more than a dozen different languages.

While the job dates back to World War II, the unit's true genesis dates to Vietnam, Hreczkosij said, when the 4400th Combat Crew Training Squadron was dispatched to Southeast Asia to train the Vietnamese and Cambodian air forces to leverage older aircraft in counter-insurgency and military assistance during the war.

It wasn't until the 1990s when the Air Force would again start using air commandos as a foreign internal defense force for operations across the globe.

Both Hreczkosij and Kochen were part of the 6th SOS before moving to the Air Force Special Operations Warfare Center headquarters and have been in the mission for more than a decade.

Kochen said CAAs want to work with as many countries as they can, but are turning away work due to demand.

"We get a long list, and we can only do one-third of what we're being asked to do," she said.

The dwell-deployment rate, however, is on par with the Air Force's current deployment schedule, Hreczkosij said, adding the units are not overtasked at this time.

Kochen reiterated that their work goes only so far before the foreign partner has to step in and take over. "There's no point in sending guys over" to a country they've been working with for a while, such as Afghanistan, because "our guys would only be getting in their way," she said, referring to training the Afghan Special Mission Wing on PC-12NG ISR operations.

"Thirty months later here, they are doing 15 sorties per day and night, providing a combat effect to the organic larger Afghan air force," Hreczkosij said of the Afghan ISR unit.

"They're able to give their guys check rides without us being there anymore," Kochen said. "We give them a capability that we can just leave and hopefully they can just fight their own wars.

"That's the goal. That we don't have to send U.S. forces over there. The goal is to set up a sustaining, capable unit that can continue doing that same mission," she said.

-- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214.Pentagon Official Says He Resigned Because US Cybersecurity Is No Match for China

Nicolas Chaillan cited the Pentagon's reluctance to make cybersecurity and AI a priority as a reason he quit.Right-hander Anthony DeSclafani will make his long-awaited return to the Reds rotation with a start on Tuesday against the Rockies, John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports. Itll be DeSclafanis first major league appearance since Sept. 28, 2016. Given that DeSclafanis currently on the 60-day disabled list and the Reds 40-man roster is full, theyll need to make a corresponding move prior to activating him.

Injuries have beset DeSclafani over the past couple years, as a sprained ulnar collateral ligament kept him out for all of 2017 before a left oblique strain shelved him for the first two months of this season. DeSclafani was a quality mid-rotation starter before then, combining for 308 innings of 3.74 ERA/3.79 FIP ball from 2015-16  the ex-Marlins first two seasons as a Red. Although, DeSclafanis injury troubles began in earnest in the latter of those years, when an oblique issue cost him two months and limited him to 123 1/3 frames.

Now, if the 28-year-old DeSclafani is able to revisit his old form upon his return, it would be a boon to a rebuilding Cincinnati club that has struggled mightily to develop starting pitching. The Reds DeSclafani-less rotation has logged a league-worst 5.59 ERA since last season, and bright spots have been hard to find this year  especially with 2017 breakout starter Luis Castillo amid a disappointing campaign. Among the rotation pieces the Reds have used this season, only Matt Harvey (4.44) and Tyler Mahle (4.38) have managed ERAs under five, but even theyre well below the National League average for starters (3.98).metals

Kaynat Chainwala

So far, 2018 has not been as good as 2017 for base metals citing global trade war concerns coupled with oversupply fears in some counters. Despite all the odds, Nickel has been shining the brightest not only amongst base metals but also the entire non-agri commodities spectrum.

The silvery white metal, mainly used in the production of stainless steel, has outdone its 2017 performance, and has surged 21 percent on the LME and 31 percent on the MCX in the first five months of 2018 itself. Nickel prices have been supported by falling inventories and rising Chinese demand right from the onset of 2018. LME Nickel stocks are currently standing at four-year low of 2,87,646 tonnes while Shanghai inventories at present stand at 30-month low of 27,430 tonnes.

Not only this, Nickel ore imports by China have more than doubled to 6.6 million tonnes in the first quarter of 2018 compared to same period in 2017.

Besides, Refined Nickel and alloy imports have surged 14 percent from nearly 53,000 tonnes in the first of 2017 to 60,000 tonnes in the same period in 2018. The sharp rise can be attributed to accelerating imports from Indonesia and stable shipments from Philippines.

Related stories Kaynat Chainwala Research Analyst - Base Metals|Angel Broking

In fact, Indonesian imports in March at 1.37 million tonnes were the highest monthly total since the ban was imposed in 2014. Supplies from Indonesia have been growing fast enough to replace Philippines as the top supplier to China while Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has been stern on the mining industry.

Having said this, the major breakout in Nickel prices came only after the US imposed sanctions on Russian President Vladimir Putins allies including Russian oligarchs and companies controlled by them as well as government officials.

This sparked fears that sanctions could extend to world's second-biggest nickel producer, Norilsk Nickel, after inclusion of aluminum giant Rusal in the forbidden list and pushed average Nickel prices to $14426.7 per tonne and Rs 972.57 per kg, highest since late 2014, on the LME and MCX respectively.

Currently as well, Nickel prices are basking under the glory of output cut in China after the local government ordered Shandong Xinhai Technology Co, one of China's largest nickel pig iron producers, to cut back output ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. Also, Output of Stainless steel, which drives two thirds of Nickel demand, touched 12.2 million tonnes over the first three months of 2018, after robust growth in 2017.

Overall, falling global stocks, expectations of widening deficit coupled with electric vehicle boom will boost Nickel prices further to Rs 1,120 per kg on the MCX in the near term against current market price of Rs 1,030.3 per kg.

Disclaimer: The author is Research Analyst, Base Metals, at Angel Broking. 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.PC Jeweller Ltd | YTD loss: 69.2% (Image: Company website)

South Korea has asked India to remove restrictions on gold and silver imports, which were imposed to check abuse of free trade agreement leading to significant surge in the inbound shipments.

In August 2017, India restricted imports of gold and silver items from South Korea to check spurt in the inbound shipments of the precious metals from that country.

"South Korea is asking for removal of these restrictions but we have asked them to increase value addition norms," a government official said.

As part of the restrictions, importers have to obtain a licence from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) for importing gold and silver from South Korea.

The two nations implemented a free trade agreement in January 2010. Under the pact , basic customs duty on gold was eliminated.

Further, the 12.5 per cent countervailing duty on gold imports has been subsumed in the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Accordingly, the imports now attract only 3 per cent integrated GST.

On the other hand, imports of gold from non-FTA countries attract 10 per cent customs duty.

Gems and jewellery exporters too have asked not to ease the restrictions as it would impact their shipments.

An official of the gems and jewellery export promotion council (GJEPC) said easing of norms would again lead to significant surge in imports of the yellow metal in India from Korea.

"South Korea is not a major player in gems and jewellery sector but despite that certain players were abusing the free trade pact and exporting items to India," the council official said.

After the imposition of restrictions, no importer has sought licence from DGFT for the imports.

Gold imports from South Korea has jumped to USD 338.6 million in July 2017. The import in 2016-17 was only USD 70.46 million from that country.

India is the world's second biggest gold consumer after China. The imports mainly take care of demand by the jewellery industry.

Both the countries have started the first review of the free trade agreement. A team of senior officials is already there for the meeting.Operating profit is the amount realized from a business's ongoing operations. It serves as a highly accurate indicator of the business's potential profitability because it excludes all extra factors. Moneycontrol analysis showed there are 7 companies from the BSE universe that have given at least 15 percent operating profit growth in FY20 compared to the previous fiscal year (FY19). We considered only companies where FIIs and MFs, both, increased stake in the first two quarters of FY21. Interestingly, in FY21 so far, all of them have been trading in the green and have gained between 20 percent and 190 percent. (Data Source: ACE Equity)

Shubham Agarwal

Wouldn't it be great to know market top & bottom? But, let me set the expectation right, it indeed is a complicated task but here is as add-on indicator to help you find one i.e. PCR (Put Call Ratio).

Be it investors or traders, instead of participating the trend what mostly they are hunting for is to catch a market top or a market bottom. Though the success rate in doing so would be extremely low, the payoffs can be lucrative if you can predict one.

The Calculation:

PCR, as the name implies, is a ratio -- total Puts divided by total calls.

Market participants look at two different PCRs: 1) Open Interest based 2) Volume-based.

For this article, we shall be concentrating on Open Interest based PCR which I believe has a superior predicting power over the volume PCR.

Traditionally, the PCR was calculated as Total Put Open Interest of all expiries divided by Total Call Open Interest of all expires.

The Study:

Derivatives is a zero sum game which means that an option buyer always has an option seller and vice versa. But, still these studies exist with a subjective analysis to know who is in control; the buyer or the seller.

The seller is called the smart money as they take the maximum risk to gain a small premium and that is the reason of these analysis providing lots of weightage to them.

General Signals:

A well-known way to trade the market using the PCR is to take a contrarian bet when the PCR is at its extreme. If the PCR is too low a market bottom is expected and if the PCR is too high a market top is expected.

This is because if the PCR is too low it means that Call writers are taking the market for granted expecting it to not move up which could create a short squeeze similarly a high PCR would mean Put Writers are over-optimistic of the market up move and a slight contra move could collapse the up-move in to a sharp profit booking.

Now the question is how high is too high and how low is too low?

Well, the market keeps changing its dynamics and a hardcoded number won't really work. Looking at the rolling extremes like a 1 year rolling or 6 months rolling would help.

For example, 0.98 was the lowest PCR in the last year with 1.89 being highest, a number around these can be considered an extreme.

Which means a PCR highest in 1-year could be considered as an extreme but certainly a trade should be taken with price confirmations as PCR is just an add-on indicator.

Advanced Analysis of PCR:

What has worked even better for me is the strike wise PCR over tracking the overall PCR which could be misleading due to a far out of the money options writing adding to the overall Open Interest. Strike-wise PCR is put to call ratio of open interest for each strike.

If the strike wise PCR for an ITM (In the Money) or ATM (At the Money) Put strike starts increasing that is an indication of the market nearing a bottom and when the PCR of ITM (In the Money) or ATM (At the Money) Call starts decreasing that's an indication of a market top.

These behaviours indicate the conviction of the Option Writers at the points when they are at the break-even point to make a decision of running away or staying firm in the trade.

Disclaimer: The author is CEO & Head of Research at Quantsapp Private Limited. 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.Answer: Tata.

India's Tata Sons has issued a strong rebuttal to a claim of a USD 50 million gift to the prestigious Harvard Business School, terming the US media report "false, disparaging and defamatory" and demanded an apology.

The holding company of the Tata Group, Tata Sons has raised strong objections to a May 21 article titled 'Harvard Business School's Ignominious Gift from Tata Trusts' in The Daily Caller, a conservative American news and opinion website.

Tata Sons has said that the "article is replete with false and inaccurate statements of fact and is defamatory to Tata Sons Ltd, its directors, its Chairman Emeritus Ratan N Tata, and all of them enjoy an enormous amount of goodwill and respect globally."

Tata Sons has formally written to The Daily Caller, giving a detailed and point-by-point rebuttal of the "several errors" and "blatantly false statements" in the article and demanded an apology and that the website take down the article.

The article is authored by Alan Beard, who according to his affiliation at the end of the article is managing director of Washington-based financial advisory firm Interlink Capital Strategies and a former adjunct professor at Georgetown University.

"...Given that the article is replete with incorrect, disparaging and defamatory statements and insinuations, we behove The Daily Caller to take immediate corrective steps to take down the article and publish an apology. We also call upon The Daily Caller to disclose all the materials relied upon by it for the purpose of publishing the article," Tata Sons said.

Tata Sons said the "reputational damage and harm" caused by the article is "irreparable" and the group "continues to explore" its remedies.

In the Daily Caller article, Beard refers to the 50 million dollar gift to Harvard Business School in 2010 from Tata Trusts and Companies, saying that the institution accepted "questionable funds that go against every tenet of good governance."

The article also questioned the use of the funds to construct Tata Hall at Harvard, saying "public money has apparently been misdirected to the most privileged and wealthy in the world."

Tata Sons strongly rejected these assertions in the letter to The Daily Caller, saying the gift of USD 50 million to Harvard Business School was collectively made by the Tata Companies, Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the Tata Education and Development Trust.

"It is untrue that the Tata Trusts had alone made the gift of USD 50 million."

Tata Sons also strongly rejected the claim made in the article that the USD 50 million gift agreement was "brokered" between HBS Dean Nitin Nohria and Ratan Tata. Tata Sons said that during his service on the Board, in 2008, Ratan Tata was approached by its former Dean Jay Light to consider a gift to HBS to build a new executive education building.

"Nitin Nohria had no involvement whatsoever in these discussions and it is a false statement that the gift was brokered between him and Tata," Tata Sons said.

Tata Sons also asserted that it was "incorrect and false" to allege that public money had been "misdirected."

"To state that funds were 'taken' from 'poor Indians' is not only false, but reckless reporting. It is unfortunate that no details of the enormous philanthropic work carried out by the Tata Trusts have even been reported."

The article also noted that Nohria, as non-executive director on Tata Sons Board, had voted to out former Tata Sons Chairman Cyrus Mistry. Rejecting this, Tata Sons said Mistry had been removed as he had lost the confidence of "7 out of 9 directors" of Tata Sons.

"From the false statements in the article, it is now apparent that the article is motivated, aimed to malign the reputation of Tata Sons, its directors and Tata and probably that's the reason for irresponsibly reporting and intentionally not approaching Tata Sons or Tata for the correct facts," Tata Sons said.

Responding to a reference in the article that in the two months following Mistry's replacement as Executive Chairman, the value of Tata's listed companies dropped by USD 17 billion, Tata Sons said that the article failed to add that Mistry had, a day after being removed, written a "vitriolic email to the directors of Tata Sons wherein he made several unsubstantiated and false allegations" in relation to Tata Sons and other companies in the Tata group.

"The article is irresponsible, lacking in thorough investigation and openly partisan," Tata Sons said adding that the article's "one-sided presentation, motivated and malicious insinuations are plainly visible and buttressed by the fact that neither the Daily Caller nor the article's author approached the Tata Group for any comment and response prior to publication," Tata Sons said.A man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison in Nepal on charges of slaughtering cows, the Hindu majority nation's national animal.

Information Officer Tek Raj Gaire of District Court Arghakhanchi said that a single bench of judge Ram Chandra Poudel issued the verdict against Yam Bahadur Khatri of Bhotepokhara for killing three cows.

Khatri's neighbour Baldev Bhat had lodged the complaint against him.

In Nepal, slaughtering of a cow has been prohibited by law.

Nepal became a secular state in 2008. Cow, which is sacred to the Hindus, was declared the national animal of Nepal in 2015 in the country's secular Constitution.File Pic

Air India has asked the government to "restore" equity infusion in the carrier, after it failed to find any takers for its disinvestment.

The loss-making carrier has already received more than Rs 26,000 crore under the bailout package announced by the former UPA government in April 2012.

"We have sought restoration of the equity infusion in Air India and have written to the government last week in this regard," a senior airline official said.

The official, however, did not disclose the amount of the funds the airline was looking at.

The UPA government had approved a turnaround plan under which Air India is to receive a total equity infusion worth Rs 30,231 crore up to 2021, subject to meeting certain performance thresholds.

Amid fund crunch, during which Air India also had to defer its staff salaries, the airline borrowed Rs 6,250 crore from various banks between September last year and January this year for working capital requirements and other needs.

The carrier, which has a debt burden of about Rs 50,000 crore till March last year, had been receiving about Rs 3,000-4,000 crore equity infusion on an average per fiscal from the government till FY14. However, after that the amount was gradually reduced.

For 2018-19, the airline has been allocated Rs 650 crore in view of its now failed disinvestment plan.

The government had proposed to offload 76 per cent equity share capital of the national carrier as well as transfer the management control to private players, besides complete sale of its low-cost arm Air India Express and its entire stake in 50:50 joint venture AI-SATS.Police in the port city of Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu gave no warning last Tuesday before firing with live ammunition on protesters seeking the closure of a copper smelter owned by London-listed Vedanta Resources Plc, according to 16 witnesses interviewed by Reuters.. Friends and relatives of two people who died said they had been shot in the face.

Warning protesters before firing is stipulated in the current federal manual for crowd control, and it is also outlined in Section 129 of Indias criminal procedure code, according to a home ministry official in New Delhi, who declined to be identified. aIt is mandatory,a the official stressed.

Vappala Balachandran, a former deputy police commissioner in Mumbai, added that the manual gives detailed instructions about how force should be used. "First baton charge, then tear gas and when everything fails, firing. The constables have to squat on the ground placing one knee on the floor, take aim on the legs to incapacitate the rioters and fire,a he said.

Ten people were killed on the day of the shootings, and a further three have died since, making this one of the most deadly environmental protests in India since at least 14 were killed by the police in Nandigram in West Bengal in 2007 in a demonstration against plans for a chemicals hub.

Several state and district officials declined to comment on what happened that day, citing a pending investigation. Sandeep Nanduri, who was installed as the new district chief for Thoothukudi after the protest, told Reuters the sequence of events leading up to the firing has not yet been established.

India's home ministry has asked the Tamil Nadu government to submit a report on the police firing, a ministry spokesman said. He said the ministry wouldnt say anything else at this stage.

Indias government funded National Human Rights Commission said on Tuesday it will send a team of investigators to Thoothukudi to carry out its own probe.

Vedanta's Sterlite Copper smelter is one of only two major copper smelters in India and it had announced plans to double its capacity. The Tamil Nadu state government ordered that the plant be shut permanently on environmental grounds on Monday, and officials physically sealed the smelter, saying it was listening to residents complaints.

Vedanta, in which Indian-born resources magnate Anil Agarwal has a controlling stake, has been accused by local residents and environmentalists of polluting the citys air and ground water. The state pollution control board in April rejected the companys request to renew its license to operate, saying it had not complied with environmental laws on five counts.

The company has denied it is in breach of any environmental laws. Agarwal in a video on Twitter last Thursday expressed sadness about the protesters deaths, saying ait was absolutely unfortunatea and his full sympathy is with the families of those killed. He said he is committed to the local community and the environment, and to abiding by the law.

In response to the state shuttering the plant, Vedanta said on Monday that it will study the order and decide on its next course of action.

STORMED GOVERNMENT OFFICES

On May 22, the protest quickly got unruly and out of police control as the demonstrators reached the district offices.

The protesters had been given permission to rally in a playground in the city but not to gather outside the district government offices, police said.

The playground could hold only 2,000 and the protesters said numbers swelled to at least 50,000 on the 100th day of their campaign against the smelter - a campaign that began when the company announced plans for the expansion.

Police and protesters threw stones at each other, seven witnesses said, and protesters stormed the offices and threatened to get into an apartment building where Vedanta employees live, police and a Vedanta official added.

Four police officials and two people working at the district headquarters said police fired only after protesters threw stones at the office building.

Most of the 16 witnesses said police moved straight from using tear gas and sticks to live ammunition to try to control protesters. Police and other officials havent challenged this.

Reuters was unable to determine what or who prompted the police to fire on protesters, why live ammunition and not rubber bullets was deployed, and why some people were shot in the head.

One police officer speaking on condition of anonymity said police had to act to restore order. "Do you expect us to take it lying down and die in a riot situation? Of course we will hit back," he said.

Initially, local police and state officials defended the use of live ammunition. The state's chief minister, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, told reporters on the day of the protest that the police had been forced to act after it turned violent. And on the same day, state Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar said it had been aunavoidablea for police to fire on protesters.

In the past few days, though, Tamil Nadu state officials have declined to respond to detailed questions posed by Reuters about the police actions on that day, including deputy chief minister O. Paneerselvam during and after a news conference on Monday.

FIRED FROM TERRACE

Six of the witnesses a a mixture of protesters and bystanders a said in separate conversations that they saw gunmen shooting from behind trees. Two other witnesses said they saw a man shooting down on the crowd from the terrace of the district authority offices.

Some of the gunmen, who carried pistols and rifles, were in police uniform, while others were in plainclothes, the witnesses said.

One man, who said he lost a relative in the shootings, described seeing someone firing from the top of a van. "They were shooting from the top of a van, police were not even wearing uniforms and they gave no warning," said the 43-year-old man who gave his name as Gopal but was afraid to give his full name, citing fear of the authorities.

Television channels have also shown a man, armed with an assault rifle, lying on the roof of a police bus in a marksmans position.

aThey started shooting at us without any warning. They came with an intent to kill as if we were terrorists,a said 47-year old K. Selvam, a labourer who joined the protest and was shot in the leg.

None of the witnesses said the police used loudspeakers or other methods to give directions to the protesters. Such warnings are typical when police engage in crowd control in India.

The public uproar that has resulted from the killings last Tuesday prompted the state government of Tamil Nadu to replace both Thoothukudi's police superintendent and the district's top administrative official. It provided no reason for the removals.

The officials who had been replaced did not answer repeated calls seeking comment.

The closure of the smelter means India will have to get more copper from overseas, said Goutam Chakraborty, a securities analyst with Indian broker Emkay Global, boosting its import bill. The metal is essential for a country developing rapidly as it is used in everything from housing to autos.

HORRIFIC INJURIES

Among those who died on Tuesday was a 17-year-old girl, J. Snowlin, who was shot in her face, according to her mother J. Vanitha. She died while trying to flee from the firing at the district offices, according to her mother and a school friend who was with her during the protest.

A 43-year old fisherman said his friend Tamilarasan was mowed down in what appeared to be ablind shootinga by the police.

aHe was standing behind me, I heard a shot and I turned around, he had dropped to the ground. He had been shot in his facea the fisherman said. He requested anonymity, citing fear of retribution by the police. The state government confirmed to Reuters that a man called Tamilarasan, aged 42, died in Tuesdays violence.

It is still unclear how many died from gunshot wounds, or where they died. Some people were beaten with sticks and iron rods and may have died as a result.

Officials said the cause of death for the 13 would be known only after autopsies were completed. Not everyone died around the district offices - there were reports of deaths in at least two other parts of the city. Doctors at the city's main hospital, Thoothukudi Medical College, said they dealt with some horrific injuries that day.

There were people shot in the head, in the groin, and in the legs. People with broken spines, fractured arms and limbs and ribcage damage were also being treated in the hospital.

Altogether there at least 102 injured in addition to the dead, with 19 of them in critical condition, the state government said.WILLISTON, N.D. -- The Permian came to call on the Bakken Thursday afternoon, and what followed was an interesting exchange of information and a lot of me too moments.

The story of how Williston handled its boom has played out in a very public way, with many national media parachuting into the area to write stories about the communitys growing pains.

Officials from Midland organized the visit with Williston so they could learn more about how city leaders handled the boom, coming out the other side with what Williston Mayor Howard Klug called a lot more lung capacity.

I like showing off our town, Klug said. We are a lot better than we were six or seven years ago.

The event kicked off with an introduction by Sen. Heidi Heitkamp, who talked about the impact of lifting the oil export ban. The Democratic senator was instrumental in persuading her colleagues to lift the decades old ban. She suggested that has been crucial in helping communities like Williston and Midland avoid a bust.

I love the subject of this meeting, she said. This is the kind of long-range planning that communities need to do and that industry needs to do and that public officials and policy makers need to do to help stabilize and level economic activity as it relates to the oil industry.

Technological breakthroughs have led to a shale revolution, one that has made America a dominant energy player on the world stage.

That has really helped level the peaks and the valleys, too, she said. We dont see what we saw in the 80s, when I was taking phone calls as the tax commissioner from people in Williston whose property taxes had tripled, and they didnt know how they were going to keep their house.

Heitkamp said each boom-bust cycle has taught communities like Williston and Midland important lessons. And we can learn more from talking to each other, too, she said.

The oil export ban played a particularly important role in helping American oil and gas companies during the downturn, Heitkamp said.

If we couldnt export American oil today, wed have a 3 million-barrel surplus of oil, she said. What would that mean to the price and the economic activity in your community?

Infrastructure has been another key to avoiding the bust, Heitkamp said. We have to be able to move energy and make sure its the safest method possible, she said.

And the third key has been investing in workforce.

This isnt some kind of second-choice job, she said. This can be a first-choice, and you will get paid really well. (Oil industry officials) need to talk about what kinds of good-paying jobs you pay to American workers. You dont talk about that enough.

Oil companies also weighed in on key steps they felt Williston has taken to come through the boom years well. Among those was the TrainND center, which provides customized workforce training, mostly to the oilfield, but also for other sectors such as healthcare.

John Lee, with Oasis, said the job -specific training from TrainND was crucial to their efforts to gear up a capable and highly trained workforce, in part because it can respond so quickly to workforce needs. Companies cannot wait for a next semester to start training. They have to get their employees trained while the market bell is still ringing.

We use them for safety training pretty much across the board, Lee added.

The director of TrainND, Deanette Piesik, said the industry in turn was a critical partner in making the center what it is today.

They shared their safety trainer with me, Piesik said of Oasis.

That was during a labor shortage that made it difficult for everyone to hire key personnel. That was a great partnership, Piesik said, noting that since TrainND must hire industry experts, so must offer a salary commensurate with what industry pays.

TrainND was created in 1999 after it was realized that industry were sending thousands and thousands of workers outside the state for such training.

The state saw an exodus of business personnel and workforce leaving the state for training, and then not coming back to do the jobs, Piesik recalled. Halliburton alone was spending $25,000 to send people out of state for five weeks to get training.

By working together, oil companies, city leaders and college officials were able to forge a powerful partnership to make the case for a training center in Williston. Oil and gas contributions to the center are about $7.5 million, Piesik said, and have helped make the award-winning center possible.

I get funding based on the number of employees in my region, Piesik said. And we are accountable for providing numbers to the state about how many are trained for the northwest region.

City department heads also weighed in on Thursdays discussions, talking about what issues they decided to invest in first, and why.

Williston City Commissioner and state representative Brad Bekkedahl ran through revenue sources that helped Williston accomplish its infrastructure improvements.

Williston chose to address infrastructure needs first, Bekkedahl said, and then work on quality of life issues. Watford City, meanwhile, looked at some quality of life issues first. He suggested only time would tell which approach had been the best.

Klug acknowledged that building for the boom has meant substantial debts for the city.

Brad would say our debt is probably $240 million, he said. And we will probably add 60 to that when we get our airport built. But it is manageable debt, as long as we maintain the Hub City funding.

Bekkedahl said the city had no choice but to act at the time, and that all of the debts the city has incurred to date were necessary.

We had people living in tents in the Walmart parking lot, he recalled. It was deplorable.

But, he added, there is a plan to bring the debts back down, one that is working.

And its going to pay big rewards in terms of attracting people, Lee suggested. There are tons of great things to do here.

He recently moved to Midland, to manage Permian operations for Oasis.

Im not sure theres that much to do there, he told the Midland officials, pointing out how hot it gets in Midland in summer  107 on Thursday.

How do you attract a young, robust family? he asked, suggesting the city needed more indoors activities suitable for young families.

Brent Hilliard, chairman of the board of directors for Midland Development Corp., helped organize the tour of Williston, and said he was pleased with the range of information they were able to collect so far.

The MDC this year reached a point where it has more projects to fund than it can supply for the first time. That prompted some soul-searching, he said, trying to figure out how best to prioritize which projects will get limited funding.

Midland has many of the same needs right now that Williston faced in 2013, and what he heard form Williston city officials was helpful.

In some cases, it just helped affirm some of the things weve already done, he said. And its also giving us some new ideas to consider as well.

He was particularly impressed with the TrainND center and the way industry had partnered with the city to make that and other things possible that otherwise might not have been.

The group also visited Williston State College.Editors Note: This story first appeared on mrt.com Friday evening.

A teacher at Midland Freshman High School was placed on administrative leave and then resigned after a physical and verbal altercation with a male student in class last week.

In a video sent to the Reporter-Telegram, the teacher is heard calling the student names and using obscenities in the direction of the student. He also puts his hands on the student, pushing the student on top of a desk at one point. The district does not identify the teacher in the video.

The behavior displayed by the teacher is unacceptable and is not tolerated in our district, according to a statement MISD released to the media late Friday. As soon as campus administrators completed a thorough investigation, the teacher was removed from campus and placed on administrative leave for the duration of his contract term which ends June 2. The teacher has resigned and will not be part of Midland ISD moving forward.

RELATED: MISD: Goddard teachers in video resign, to remain on administrative leave

This is the second time in less than two months Midland ISD teachers were caught acting inappropriately on video. The first happened in April when two Goddard Junior High teachers were caught engaged in inappropriate behavior in the campus gymnasium.

The incident, according to the district, occurred after regular school hours, and the two teachers were placed on administrative leave after an investigation took place. The school district later announced both teachers turned in their resignations effective at the end of the school year. The district did not identify the Goddard teachers.

***

Here in its entirety is the school districts statement on the MFHS incident:

This week, a few videos have circulated involving an incident between a student and teacher at one of our campuses. The behavior displayed by the teacher is unacceptable and is not tolerated in our district. As soon as campus administrators completed a thorough investigation, the teacher was removed from campus and placed on administrative leave for the duration of his contract term which ends June 2nd. The teacher has resigned and will not be part of Midland ISD moving forward.

We would like to thank our students for seeing something and saying something and for providing evidence that allowed our campus administrators to complete an investigation quickly.

At Midland ISD, we believe that every student should be treated with respect and dignity from their peers and our staff. The behavior displayed by the teacher in the video is disgraceful and does not reflect the culture and values that we expect in our classrooms.If there was a turnaround campus inside Midland ISD the 2017-18 school year, it was South Elementary.

The campus in south central Midland began the year with the longest streak of failing grades  five years  of any school inside the district and one of the longest in the state.

Should the trend continue, South likely would meet the fate of the former Crockett Elementary and other MISD schools that have been targeted for dramatic change, something school officials are forced to do or the state takes control of the campus.

RELATED: South students on a mission to make water a reality

However, based on the hard work of South Elementary students, teachers and staff, a campus conversion might not be needed -- at least not yet. Those on campus say cant has been replaced by compete -- as in the students at South, they say, can compete with any school in the district. Those on campus abide by a no-excuses philosophy. It doesnt matter what happened in the past. It doesnt matter that a student who was in fifth grade this past school year had not known a time when South received a passing grade from the Texas Education Agency. It doesnt matter that the student population on Souths campus, according to school officials, is 85 percent economically disadvantaged.

This is a totally different place, fifth-grade teacher Lesley Stigall told the Reporter-Telegram. Kids are inspired by pride. They are inspired that they can compete now  with anybody in the district.

Preliminary results from the first administration of STAAR testing were released in April, giving evidence of the turnaround at South. No school could match the students of South when it came to improvement. Comparing fifth-grade math and reading scores, South students showed a more modest rise of 16 and 26 percent points, respectively. However, the greatest jump came when comparing the same group of kids from one year to another. This cohort comparison showed how far South really had come.

The percentage of fourth-grade students who passed the first administration of the STAAR reading test in 2016-17 was 42 percent. Those same students passed the fifth-grade test at a 75 percent clip, an improvement of 33 percent. On math, the improvement was more dramatic. In 2016-17, 35 percent of fourth-graders passed the first administration of the STAAR math test. That number rose to 74 percent this just completed academic year. The percentage of students who passed more than doubled. The rise was 39 percent.

There is data that shows this is not limited to one grade. Such performance is happening school-wide.

It is hard to talk about Souths rise to respectability without mentioning Lety Amalla. She was the latest in the revolving door of principals. However, when school administrators picked Amalla for the position, they had someone with experience helping a campus rise from the improvement requirement ashes. She did so as principal at Burnett, where in three years the school went from being in IR to being out of IR solid, as she said last week.

Amalla refuses to think of herself as the person who deserves credit for Souths improvement in 2017-18. She told the Reporter-Telegram this is about the teachers and staff who removed the barriers built from years of frustration. She said the teachers embraced setting goals for their students and working to allow the adults on campus to set the tone for what the school will sound and look like. They took to heart Amallas theory that adult behavior will change the student behavior.

It was the adults on campus who worked round the clock on changes when it came to drop-off, lunchtime, inside the classroom and inside the hallways to improve the infrastructure for learning.

It isnt smoke and mirrors; it is hard work, Stigall said. Every child, every minute every day, we do what is best for them.

Amalla said the leadership team and then the teachers were on board with coming up with a plan to find the targets students were missing and to sharpen the focus of everyone on campus. The targets were used to create WIGs (or wildly important goals), and those goals hung up in the school hallways to remind everyone of the task at hand.

Everything we did had to be intentional, Amalla said.

Professional learning communities and other forms of collaboration also helped team members stay on task. Amalla said the team embraced it so quickly that everything was in place by November.

The first couple weeks, teachers were like oh, my gosh, Amalla said. That opened the doors to moving into academic performance immediately. Once you eliminate those barriers to learning, you open the doors to focus on academics. That is how we started.

It is about staff and the commitment they have made to bring kids to the forefront.

Amalla said all but four of the schools 35 teachers are returning next year. And of those four, two are moving out of town and two are moving to campuses closer to where they live, Amalla said.

I havent seen a principal at MISD do what she has done, Stigall said. She is not a big cheerleader, and there are no useless meetings. Everything is purposeful, and it all benefits children.

Amalla said those teachers who stay will benefit as South leaders learn more on advocating for academic performance of their students when they attend No Excuses University, a program MISD officials are excited to partner with. Amalla said she will look at other programs inside the district  including the collegiate preparatory academy opening next year -- and see what ideas make sense for her students at South.

Still, Amalla said there will not be any reason to redesign the wheel.

When you are able to build a strong team, they know what to expect, Amalla said. The most powerful strategy I know is that adult behavior will change the student behavior.  It is the third time for me to see this.  Yes, the turnaround was fast. The teachers were hungry for structure.

The big question now is: Will South Elementary rise out of the TEAs improvement required status. Amalla is optimistic but will not jinx it with a guarantee. MISD officials arent saying, either. Leaders just smile knowing what could be.

There are great expectations of a life at South Elementary beyond improvement required. What a turnaround, indeed.QUINCY (AP)  Dan Conboys professional career focused on the legal system, but in his private time, the retired parole officer always has sought out the stage.

The Quincy Community Theatre executive director has played Bob Cratchet in the Christmas Carol five times, but he thinks the time may have come for him to seek out the Scrooge role instead. His favorite roles have been the Giver in The Giver and Man in Chair in The Drowsy Chaperone. His most recent role was as Horace Vandergelder in Hello, Dolly!

Community theater instills a sense of community, he said. You get to contribute to each other, and theres really nothing more fulfilling than that. The things that make you feel best are how you contribute and help other people.

The Monroe City, Missouri, native was a jokester in school, always drawing attention to himself while trying to make people laugh. That translated into a love of performing that started in his junior year with the annual musical. Junior year, he starred in Ondine, but his pivotal part  the one that made him fall in love with live theater  was as Lord Brockhurst, a comedic role in The Boy Friend, that he performed in his senior year. He reprised that role at QCT three years ago, 45 years or so after he first played the part.

I think like every actor I was afraid I would miss a line and cause somebody else to miss a line, he said, but the interesting thing about it is, once the curtain goes up, and the lights come up, all that fear is gone. You are that character.

After high school, he attended Northeast Missouri State University to study law enforcement and corrections.

I didnt know what I wanted to do when I went to college, he said. Im from Monroe City, and Id never really been out of town to speak of.

He worked as a parole officer for the state of Missouri for 40 years, running the Highway 15 Corridor  Monroe, Shelby, Knox and Scotland counties  out of the Hannibal office. It was hard to gauge the personal growth of his clients, but he found the work fulfilling.

Most of them werent criminals, they were just guys and girls who made dumb choices, he said. All you hear about are the ones who continually screw up, but I think Ive helped some people straighten their act out and do well.

The career helped him to shed a black-and-white view of the world, recognizing that every person has good and bad traits and that making mistakes doesnt detract from the good a person does in life.

I never wanted to lose that thought, he said. Its easy to get callused in the law enforcement field.

Later in his career, he became a supervisor. In 2006, when the Hannibal Community Supervision Center opened  which housed 18 probation and parole officers and a small residential component similar to a halfway house for those who have violated their terms  Conboy served as district administrator.

The whole time I was in probation and parole, I was involved in community theater, he said.

Conboy was involved with six shows with Hannibal Community Theatre before his family moved to Quincy in the late 1980s to have access to a better deaf education program for his son, Jess. Then he began auditioning with Quincy Community Theatre.

It took me years before I finally got a role, he said. My first one here was in 1993. I played one of Josephs brothers in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. 

He estimates he has performed in over 20 shows, and he has been volunteering with QCT for 25 years.

When the managing artistic director position was split into the artistic director and executive director positions four years ago, Conboy, a board member at the time, stepped into the executive director role. He plans to step down by the end of the year. After he leaves the position, his successor will enter as a full-time employee.

Ive loved this theater, from the first day I walked in over at 13th and Payson, he said. Theres nothing like seeing a story where people that you know are actually telling it.Top bankers from around the region will meet in Samoa next week for the 4th Pacific Islands Regional Initiative (P.I.R.I.) forum.

The P.I.R.I. is a regional grouping of the Alliance for Financial Inclusions (A.F.I.).

It comprises all the central banks in the Pacific region: Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste, Tonga and Vanuatu.

This is according to Central Banks Legal and Financial Intelligence Manager, Gafatasi Patu.

The theme of the meeting is Fintech for Financial Inclusion and will be held on 6 -7 June 2018, at Taumeasina Island Resort.

In an email to the Samoa Observer, Patu said the meeting focuses on the use of technology to support or enable banking and financial services, which is a global issue on the rise today.

Technology has changed the way we conduct business and financial transactions.

We have to understand these trends and make sure that laws are passed to regulate these technologies in such a way that it will not limit the technology, but to harness it and do it the right way or else Samoa and our region will be left behind.

According to the Manager, following the leaders roundtable, a Regulatory Training on Digital Financial Services (D.F.S.) under Alliance for Financial Inclusion Public Private Dialogue platform will be held on 8 June 2018 for the benefit of A.F.I. members in the Pacific and interested stakeholders.

This is the first time Samoa has hosted the P.I.R.I. The first forum was held in Timor Leste, then in Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea last year.

The meeting is not only beneficial for Samoa and the Pacific region in terms of financial inclusion; it will also benefit our other services that will be used by all the attendees (purchase of our goods and services such as food from restaurants, handicrafts purchases, taxis and other).

There are about 45 high officials from the different parts of the region, mostly from the central bank field. We expect to host a total of 100 participants (combination of local and overseas attendees), said Patu.

According to the P.I.R.I. website, their regional platform and the history of close cooperation among the Pacific central banks also provides an effective way of innovating and scaling up multi-country solutions.

In the early days of mobile money, the Reserve Bank of Fiji worked closely with P.F.I.P. and other partners to issue letters of no-objection and subsequently developed guidelines for agents. Similar approaches were adopted by the other jurisdictions.

In opening up the market for insurance that are relevant and affordable to low income people, P.F.I.P. has worked with P.I.R.I. in conducting a series of regional workshops to enable supervisors to understand the regulatory requirements specific to micro-insurance.

Furthermore, the P.I.R.I. website stated their members recognised that continuity was required to better address the unique constraints to increasing financial inclusion in the Pacific.

Establishing this regional initiative now provides a long-term opportunity for member institutions to share a common vision, while working toward ensuring financial services is widely accessed throughout a region with one of the highest unbanked rates globally due to factors that include geographically dispersed islands with low density populations and challenges related to physical and banking infrastructure.An East Texas minister was sentenced to 55 years in prison Monday after pleading guilty to murder in the beating death of his wife.

The Rev. Mike Tabb had originally accepted a plea bargain that would send him to prison for 50 years, but prosecutors increased the sentence after Tabb tried to commit suicide this spring on the day he was to plead guilty.

Marla Tabb, 35, was savagely beaten to death in August 2002 in the parsonage behind the Methodist church in the tiny town of Troup where her husband was pastor. She was left lying in the bedroom in a pool of blood, still wearing pajamas.

The minister's lawyer, F.R. "Buck" Files, said Tabb accepted the plea in state district court to spare his family and his wife's family the pain of a trial and to ensure that his children were never hurt by hearing about the unpleasant details.

"The question was never whether Mike killed Marla, but rather, why he killed her," Files told The Associated Press. "I agreed with his decision that it would be better to avoid the issue of why."

The minister sat stone-faced as Marla Tabb's sister, Melanie Owen of The Woodlands, gave an emotional victim's impact statement in court. She told Tabb he had orphaned his two young children _ a 3-year-old and a 15-month-old.

Owen told him that she and her family are "haunted by thoughts and images of what you did to Marla."

"Did she suffer? You mutilated her so badly that we did not have the chance to look at her beautiful face one more time," a teary-eyed Owen told Tabb during a victim impact statement in court.

Tabb started serving his sentence Monday and will be eligible for parole in about 27 years.

On the evening Marla Tabb was killed, just six weeks after she gave birth to a second son, authorities received a frantic 911 call from her husband, who said he had come home to find his wife dead.

Overturned picture frames and lamps in the bedroom showed Marla Tabb struggled fiercely with her attacker. Autopsy results indicate she sustained blunt force trauma to her head, and a jaw broken in several places. The murder weapon was never found.

The minister, a former Navy chaplain who had just moved to the town of 1,900 with his young family, maintained his innocence. Friends said his grief was convincing when he attended his wife's funeral in Beaumont.

But authorities charged Tabb with murder after finding blood on his shoes and in his truck bed

At his trial scheduled for next month, prosecutors had planned to show proof Tabb was at a gentlemen's club while his wife's family was burying her, the Tyler Morning Telegraph reported in its Tuesday editions.

They said witnesses would have testified about a secret life Tabb tried to keep from his wife.

"It was very important for our family for Mike to show up, confess that he murdered Marla," Owen said. "We didn't want him to proclaim his innocence. We wanted him to stand up before everyone and admit he murdered her."

Owen said later that she was disappointed that Tabb showed no remorse in the courtroom.Police placed a woman who was at the center of a police sex-abuse scandal on a medical hold early Sunday after a domestic disturbance, Richmond Police Chief Allwyn Brown said on Twitter after she posted a video of the incident on Facebook.

In the tweet, Brown said officers were called to the home of the woman who used the pseudonym Celeste Guap about 7 a.m. Browns tweet referred to Guap by her real name. The Chronicle does not identify victims of sexual assault, although she has asked that her first name Jasmine be used.

They met with difficulty sorting out the conflict between she and her boyfriend, Brown said. Officers placed (her) on an emergency medical evaluation hold because of her words and behavior.

Richmond police Lt. Felix Tan said the department would issue no further statement because the incident involved a medical condition.

Guaps Facebook page, however, has a video posted about that time showing a woman inside a car saying, Help me, help me, this is a idiot, you guys, Richmond Police Department.

In the video, the woman is crying and screaming when an officer takes her phone.

Oakland attorney John Burris, who is representing Guap, said he did not know where she was taken after an altercation with her boyfriend.

Were trying to locate where she is right now, Burris said. We want her to be healthy and safe.

Guap has told The Chronicle that 29 Bay Area law enforcement officers had sex with her, even when she was a minor, and at some points alerted her about anti-prostitution stings. Oakland Police Chief Sean Whent resigned as a result of the scandal, and charges were filed against six East Bay law enforcement officers. But half the cases were dismissed or the charges were dropped due to insufficient evidence. Two cases were plea-bargained, and one awaits trial.

In May 2017, the Oakland City Council approved a $989,000 settlement with Guap, who said she was happy that I can close this chapter and move on with my life.

In August, Guap sued Richmond police, Brown, former Chief Chris Magnus and internal affairs supervisor Lt. Brian Dickerson, saying the department turned a blind eye to her exploitation.

Benny Evangelista is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: bevangelista@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ChronicleBennyDrinkers with a running problem took to the streets of downtown San Antonio for the monthly First Friday Pub Run.

RELATED: Monthly pub run prepped San Antonio for Mardi Gras

Decked out to match the luau party theme, participants sprinted or ambled to bars including Pat O'Briens, the Trophy Room, the Kremlin and On the Rocks.

See if you recognize any of your friends in the slideshow above.

Regina Zilbermints | rzilbermints@mysa.comAs employees were still sweeping and hosing down the sidewalk in front of The Grille On The Drive, the bartenders and waiters inside were already taking drink and food orders. The restaurants sign also went up as the staff got to work.

On Friday afternoon, The Grille opened its doors for the first time. It sits where Tropics was located for 25 years before it closed last year.

Wilton Manors newest restaurant, located at 2000 Wilton Drive, is owned by Paul Hugo who owns The Manor, also on Wilton Drive.

Former Tropics owners Alex Meyer and Godfrey Thompson leased the building to Hugo. Meyer stated that the goal was to reopen Tropics but that they had to focus on other issues and thought it best to let someone else open a restaurant in its place.

SFGN was at the opening and the comments from customers were positive. Alex Pittman said the menu and the redesigned interior looked great. He was having a vodka and soda at the bar when he talked to SFGN. I cant wait to come back for dinner.

Pittman said he was a fan of Tropics but hes glad a restaurant was brought back into the same space but with a different name. It was an institution here, he said about Tropics.

The Grille features two bars, a piano in the nightclub area of the restaurant, and salad bar. Along with liquor, wine, and beer, the menu also offers steak, seafood, veal, burgers, sandwiches, Italian cuisine, and more.

SFGN talked to Jason Sims before he had a chance to try the new menu and he was most impressed at that point with the way the restaurant looked. It was, he said, an improvement over Tropics. The Grille was beautiful, gorgeous . . . brighter and, most appreciated by Sims, there were no pink lights.

The Wilton Manors Gazette has now launched a Facebook page to keep residents informed with all things Wilton Manors. Click here to join.Albany

There are two rules to avoid getting arrested for marijuana possession in Albany and most other places.

Rule No. 1: Don't sell or smoke pot  or carry it around for a friend.

That's a simple rule, really.

Rule No. 2: If you can't abide by the first rule, be white.

This one, obviously, isn't so simple for about half the city's population. Nevertheless, it reflects the stark reality of marijuana arrests in the city.

A review of arrest reports show that, so far this year, Albany police have arrested 14 people for nothing more than possessing small amounts of marijuana. All were black or Hispanic. Almost all of the much larger group of people arrested for selling or possessing larger amounts of marijuana were black, too.

That's not unique to Albany. Data from across the state and country shows that blacks get arrested for pot-related crimes vastly more often than whites, even though they aren't more likely to use the drug.

I don't have data about local marijuana usage rates. But take your olfactory system on a walk through Pine Hills and you can only conclude that smoking pot is popular with a lot of college kids in this town, many of whom are white.

They just don't get arrested for it.

More Information Contact columnist Chris Churchill at 518-454-5442 or email cchurchill@timesunion.com See More Collapse

To suggest racism has nothing to do with that would be akin to burying your head at the beach, but blaming the disparity on racism alone is simplistic. Poverty is part of the equation, for sure, because underground economies, including the sale of drugs, flourish when desperate people lack hope and opportunity.

Police also spend more time in poor neighborhoods where crime is a bigger problem  and many who live there want it that way.

"If the perception was that I pulled officers out of a marginalized community, I'd get a call within 10 minutes asking me where all the cops are," former Albany Police Chief Brendan Cox told me, adding that marijuana arrests often result from citizen complaints about smoking and dealing.

Still, it's blatantly discriminatory that people in one neighborhood are being arrested for a crime that is largely unpunished in another. The injustice is something conservatives and liberals alike can agree on  and is a leading argument in the strengthening push for decriminalization.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio cited racial disparities  blacks in New York are eight times more likely to be arrested for pot possession  as he announced police in the city would stop arresting people for possessing smaller amounts of marijuana and smoking it publicly.

In the Legislature, where the pressure to legalize recreational pot is growing as neighboring states do so, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie says any move to legalize should also expunge the criminal records of those already convicted on pot charges.

"If we are going to get to the point where it is going to be legal and recreational then why should people now still be having trouble getting jobs and having a record for something that now could be legal?" Heastie said.

Fair point, and one that hints at how mass incarceration for drug crimes has devastating effects in poorer areas. It pulls men  fathers, often  out of families and neighborhoods and makes them less employable when they return home.

But legalizing recreational pot is no panacea for poor neighborhoods. It could even make life within them worse.

Albany County District Attorney David Soares said as much Friday as he announced that, with an eye toward policy changes, he'll be traveling the county on a marijuana policy listening tour. Legalization and state regulation of pot is inevitable, he said, but it needs to be done thoughtfully.

Soares noted that the end of what he called the "War on Pot" promises significant annual tax revenue  $436 million for the state, $336 million for New York City, and $570 for other localities, according to a New York City Comptroller report. It will be a failure, Soares said, if some of that money isn't invested in neighborhoods where the War on Pot has been waged.

This is about education and jobs. Despite the perception, most drug dealers would rather be doing something else. They sell drugs because they struggle to find safer work, and that won't change when pot is legal.

"Those people who earn a living on the corner will still be earning a living on the corner," Soares said, "but they'll be dealing a much more lethal drug."

That doesn't sound like progress.Albany

S. was at a bus stop when she realized she didn't want to live anymore.

She felt heavy. Tired. She wanted to throw herself in front of the bus.

The 24-year-old refugee, who escaped an unwanted marriage and physical abuse in Pakistan, had been fired from her job as an overnight cashier at the Albany Medical Center Dunkin' Donuts when trauma symptoms made her shake and faint, landing her repeatedly in the emergency room. Her county social services case manager closed her case because she was unemployed, costing her food stamps and rental assistance. She attempted suicide three times by overdosing on pills and spent a week in the Capital District Psychiatric Center.

"I was so sad, so tired," she said. "There was nothing I could do."

Each year, 400 people fleeing violence and conflict are resettled in the Capital Region. Nongovernmental organizations like the Capital Region Refugee Roundtable, New York for Syrian Refugees and RISSE, Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus, provide financial, social, medical and educational services. However, the region has been struggling to provide adequate mental health care. Some refugees suffer from mental illnesses stemming from trauma experienced not only in their home countries, but also throughout the resettlement process. Cultural and linguistic barriers have long inhibited communication  and treatment. But the new attention to refugees in the field of mental health care  which has historically been tailored for white people  means treatment methods are not fully developed, compounding the obstacles to providing sufficient mental health care for newcomers. This bind is a microcosm of the void seen nationally and globally.

An emotional journey

Twenty-one years ago, when Kenneth Miller was clinical director of the Bosnian Mental Health Program in Chicago, he was usually accurate when he diagnosed refugees from the former Yugoslavia with post-traumatic stress disorder.

"Our clients had escaped ethnic cleansing, they'd been in concentration camps, watched their homes go up in flames and their loved ones go down in violence, hunger and disease," the clinical psychologist wrote in his book, "War Torn: Stories of Courage, Love, and Resilience." "They arrived in Chicago as refugees from hell, and it was natural to assume that their trauma symptoms were the result of everything they'd just survived."

But a woman named Alma, who had escaped the Bosnian War with her husband and 6-year-old son, proved him wrong.

For nine months, the clinic staff treated Alma, who had PTSD symptoms, for war trauma. Miller received a call saying she was in a hospital emergency room after attempting suicide.

"We found out she was being sexually assaulted by her husband in front of their child every day," Miller said. "We got that so wrong. Her symptoms fit the story like all the Bosnian refugees. She had trauma and depression and lived through hell, and yet what was most affecting her was the here and now."

Alma taught Miller a critical lesson.

"War is not the only source of trauma in refugees," he said. "We have to assess current traumatic stress."

Lisa Baranik made a similar discovery examining the barriers to employment that refugees face  and their impact on mental health. Baranik, a University at Albany School of Management professor, controlled for trauma refugees experience before immigrating.

"Even though refugees have faced incredibly difficult circumstances, have overcome and are coming to places like the U.S. and Europe, the thing that's causing the most stress for them is discrimination," she said.

Ilham Almahamid, founder of New York for Syrian Refugees, echoed that the here and now has been impacting the families she works with  their standard of living has plunged in their new country, they feel socially isolated, and some teenagers have faced discrimination in high school.

"But I think they understand that they have to be patient," Almahamid said, who herself is a Syrian immigrant and a research scientist for the state Department of Health Center for Environmental Health. "They're very motivated, they want to do well and excel."

A dearth in services

Almahamid and fellow volunteers are thorough in caring for 40 local Syrian families  270 people of all ages  whether it's for English lessons, furniture and clothing donations, a ride to a doctor's appointment or simply friendly company. But when Almahamid got requests from 15 refugee families for mental health care, she hit a wall.

"It's the area we struggle most with," she said.

Almahamid wrote a Facebook post asking for volunteers with mental health care backgrounds. She only received two responses, not enough to meet the need.

On top of that, many refugees don't feel comfortable having therapy sessions with a language interpreter in the room, so you end up with "many families who are not able to get mental health care," she said.

Even before language comes into play, the challenge for therapists is achieving cultural competency  and some say this is true of all minorities, not just refugees.

"In graduate school, we looked at counseling theories and methods, but they're built on counseling white people," said Christa Grant, director of the Damietta Cross-Cultural Center at Siena College, whose background is psychology. "It's not necessarily taking into account the cultural perspectives of different ethnic or racial groups."

Some therapists want to help, but recognize they lack the expertise.

Ricky Caliendo, a private practitioner in Albany, has received requests to work with refugees, mainly Syrians, but he has had to turn them down.

"My number one job is to not do harm in providing services," he said, which includes "knowing the threshold of not being able to provide the service that's needed."

The obstacles for Caliendo are familiar  language and cultural competency. Even with a translator, he said, his care would be limited.

"The number one thing that contributes to an effective therapeutic service is the client-therapist rapport," he said. "To have a translator, I imagine that would cut out a big chunk of what could go in that rapport."

Still, Caliendo helps in any way he can, calling his contacts to see where he can refer the refugees, but they often don't have the language and cultural resources.

"Every time it has led to a dead end," he said.

Better than nothing

The more Mary Bilik heard about the horrors of the Syrian civil war, the more she felt compelled to help. After responding to Almahamid's Facebook post, the art therapist and Albany private practitioner was connected to O., a woman who had escaped Aleppo and arrived in the U.S. alone in 2017. Almahamid introduced Bilik to O. as a "support person" with a background in psychology. Over the course of a year, they met weekly. Bilik spoke no Arabic, and O. spoke no English.

"The language barrier is indeed the most difficult. We got through it, sometimes comically on my part just using hand signals," Bilik said. "I was making a human connection and offering this sense of safety and support around some things that were difficult for her."

The trauma came out in unexpected ways: the bombs falling all around O. in Aleppo, the death of her parents, the family she left behind, the culture shock and social isolation upon her arrival. But by being a consistent support figure in O.'s life, Bilik said, she was able to guide O. through the healing process.

"It all comes back to the human connection. Letting her know that she is welcome, that she is heard even if she's talking in Arabic," Bilik said. "As the year ended, I really felt like I had seen so much growth and so much more empowerment and confidence."

While Bilik volunteered her time without an interpreter, public entities have been providing refugees with more standard mental health care.

Both the Albany County Department of Mental Health and Whitney Young Health Center, for example, use a language line with around 200 languages to serve refugees and immigrants. Many refugees prefer having an interpreter over the phone because it further ensures confidentiality.

"Our staff has received specific training on working with treating refugees," said Maia Betts, director of behavioral health at Whitney Young. "There's a lot to do with verbal and nonverbal communication  expression of empathy, active listening, engaging with the patient."

Miller has been using interpreters for his work with refugees and said he couldn't have done it without them.

"If you can communicate directly, that's always preferable of course, but it's an imperfect world," Miller said. "We train interpreters on their role, and therapists to work with interpreters, and then you become a team. It's not that different from any other healing team."

The Capital Region has started improving mental health providers' cultural competency with training sessions on working with refugees led by experts in the field. More trainings would help fill the void in mental health care, Caliendo and Grant said.

Where traditional therapy is ineffective, alternative, all-encompassing methods come into play.

"Now what you see in most clinics is not only psychotherapy, but social workers linking people to language classes and livelihood programs, community centers to allow people to not be so lonely and isolated," Miller said. "It was becoming really clear that just doing clinical work and sending them home to isolation and poverty wasn't that helpful."

Betts said Whitney Young sometimes receives referrals whose need for case management is confused with behavioral health. They link these refugees with a behavioral health care coordinator to provide case management and a health home care coordinator to examine the refugees' overall mental health and primary care.

Almahamid has also been trying to help with the mental health issues among the Syrian refugees  hosting coffee hours for the women and men to socialize without their kids, holding cooking and sewing classes to empower women to be more self-sufficient, and easing financial and life stress through volunteer work.

With the help of RISSE, S. has reopened her case with the Albany County Department of Social Services, alleviating at least some of her stress.

She's on anti-depressants and has had weekly, half-hour therapy sessions at Whitney Young Health Center through an interpreter where her therapist gives her activities like playing with Silly Putty or channeling her sight, scent, touch and hearing senses to cope with stress.

"I'm still very sad four or five days every week," S. said as her face clouded over.

But now she dreams of a brighter future. Her face lights up when she talks about her hopes to continue her education, learning computer skills to work in an office. And her therapy has been helpful.

"I like my doctor a lot," she said. "I'm happier now."

Two women in this story requested they be identified by their first initials.

mmikati@timesunion.com  518-454-5092  @MassarahMikatiWEST HAVEN  Sen. Richard Blumenthal has asked the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs acting chief to approve $17 million for a project to build a new sterilization plant at the West Haven VA hospital  and is likely to tie his confirmation vote to it, he said.

Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, which will approve or disapprove President Donald Trumps appointment of VA Acting Secretary Peter ORourke, sent a letter to ORourke Thursday.

Blumenthal told the New Haven Register following a briefing by VA officials that the upgrade is essential in the wake of a February 2018 inspection in which 37 of the 50 inspection teams recommendations for corrective action at the hospital were tied to adequate sterilization.

What they conveyed on the phone was that many of the recommendations and the problems that the February inspection team found related to the scope and the scale of the facilities, and that the root cause of the West Haven VAs issues with sterilization related to the size of the facility used for sterilization, he said.

The facility there is nowhere near the size and scale that is necessary and thats why Im pressing for this capital investment  and thats why I will be raising it with the new VA secretary, both privately and publicly, Blumenthal said.

He said he will make it a likely condition for my vote. I want a commitment from him that he will provide the resources necessary to upgrade the system.

In his letter to ORourke, Blumenthal wrote, I request that you immediately approve the design and construction of a new Sterile Processing Service (SPS) at the West Haven campus of the VA Connecticut Healthcare System..

Congress recently provided $2 billion to the Department of Veterans Affairs under the Bipartisan Budget Agreement Act of 2018 to fix medical facilities in need of repair or replacement, Blumenthal wrote. The $17 million required for this project is an urgent priority to ensure that veterans have continued access to the highest quality care.

A new SPS facility to serve the Connecticut VA Healthcare System will assure adherence to national guidelines to sterilize and properly store medical equipment, Blumenthal wrote. Veterans should never be put at risk and left without adequate treatment due to a facilitys inadequate capacity that impacts SPS standards and procedures that prevent infection.

Pamela Redmond, spokeswoman for the VA Connecticut Healthcare System, responded by saying, I look forward to any support that the senator can give us to address those ... related to the funding to improve the infrastructure at the hospital.

Not just the senator, but the entire delegation, she said.

The VA Connecticut Healthcare System hospital in West Haven has had issues with operating room cleanliness in the fairly recent past.

Blumenthal asked for the briefing after being contacted by the New Haven Register in mid-May about what sources said was an inspection teams visit to the hospital in early May.

The VA later confirmed that a VA team specializing in the maintenance of sterile conditions spent four days at the hospital, followed by a six-day visit by the national director of the program.

But the VAs written statement said the inspection was unrelated to issues raised by the VA Inspector Generals Office in 2014.

The West Haven VA was cited by the VA Inspector Generals office in 2014 for having dirty operating rooms as well as inadequate supervision and a high absentee rate.

The New Haven Register has submitted a request under the Freedom of Information Act for the conclusions of the SPS site team and its recommendations. The VA has acknowledged receipt of the request but has yet to provide any documents.

Blumenthal said he was very eager to see the reports that were done to determine what could be done to guarantee safe sterile processing while the facility is expanded and improved longer-term.

While the May visits were from the National VA Sterile Processing Services, or SPS, program, Blumenthal said that the May inspection was by a joint commission that assesses both VA and non-VA hospitals every few years.

These problems apparently were found initially during one of those reviews, he said.

Blumenthal said he is likely to have another, most likely face-to-face, meeting with VA officials either in Washington D.C. or in Connecticut in the near future.

Back in 2014, the VA Inspector General concluded that terminal cleaning procedures in the (VA operating room) are not performed appropriately and the hospitals Environmental Management Services, or EMS, has insufficient staff resources assigned to the OR.

That report resulted from at least one unannounced inspection. It came four months after tests at the West Haven VA hospital found low, but detectable levels of Legionella bacteria in its water sources. That bacteria was found to have been confined to one building and was found in about five faucets.

The 2014 Inspector Generals report found that hospital EMS staff at that time did not utilize standard operating procedures ... or checklists for cleaning that are consistent with recognized industry standards.

Patients with infectious diseases who may require special precautions at that time were scheduled for surgical procedures throughout the day along with patients who are not infectious, the report said.

OR staff, meanwhile, were not always made aware of an infectious patients precaution status prior to the arrival of the patient, it said.

Inspector General investigators at that time substantiated that terminal cleaning of the OR is not performed appropriately and that a shortage of trained EMS staff assigned to the OR and an incomplete SOP and checklist inconsistent with recognized industry standards were contributing factors, the report said.

With regard to supervision, the 2014 report found that during an unannounced evening inspection of the OR, we saw no EMS staff for almost an hour, when two staff members should have been present, the report stated. EMS supervisors we spoke to could not explain the absence of employees during this time.

At the time of the 2014 inspection, the VAs EMS department had an authorized staffing of 125, with 38 vacancies, the report said, but facility managers reported that on an average workday, 19 percent of EMS staff did not report to work.

mark.zaretsky@hearstmediact.comNew York

Michael Grimm doesn't want to talk about his time in prison. He just wants your vote.

The former Republican congressman from New York City's Staten Island is fighting his party, his president and the stigma of a felony conviction in a no-holds-barred primary June 26.

Just two years out of prison, the amateur boxer with a fiery temper wants his old job back. And he has a legitimate chance to seize the nomination from the incumbent, Dan Donovan.

Just don't ask Grimm about his time behind bars for tax fraud.

"I'm done talking about it," Grimm said, blaming his seven-month stay in a federal prison on a politically motivated Justice Department under the Obama administration. "It's a closed chapter in my life. I'm looking to the future."

President Donald Trump spotlighted the race this past week with a Twitter endorsement of Donovan, warning that a Grimm primary victory would risk losing the GOP's only U.S. House seat in the city.

"Remember Alabama," Trump wrote, likening Grimm to Republican Roy Moore, the Alabama Senate candidate who was nominated even despite being accused of molesting teenage girls and who lost the general election to a Democrat in the GOP stronghold.

Trump's decision to step into New York's turbulent GOP primary tests the strength of his influence in his hometown's only conservative pocket. The 11th Congressional District covers the quiet streets of Staten Island as well as a slice of southern Brooklyn.

It is truly the heart of New York's Trump country, and is home to many white working-class voters  police officers, firefighters and hairdressers  who have sent a Republican to Washington for most of the past decade.

Donovan, a 61-year-old former public prosecutor, isn't shy about highlighting Grimm's criminal history.

"Once you betray the community you don't get a second chance," Donovan said as he toured the district last week. "This race comes down to integrity: Who can the public trust?"

Grimm, 48, is a former Marine and FBI agent who represented the area from 2011 to 2015.

He survived a political firestorm in 2014 after his violent threat against a reporter on Capitol Hill was caught on video.

A year later, Grimm was forced to resign after pleading guilty to felony tax fraud involving a restaurant he partially owned before going to Congress.

On Staten Island, voters have strong opinions about Grimm's personality and his baggage.

Outside Tony's Brick Oven pizzeria on Bay Street, Victor Aasen, 61, said he's definitely voting for Donovan.

"The other guy is just full of drama," Aasen said, citing Grimm's threat against the reporter in Washington. "He's a hot head."

Later, Dennis Quirk, president of the New York State Court Officers Association, railed against Grimm's background after endorsing Donovan.

"I think it's a disgrace for someone who's a convicted felon to run for office," Quirk said. "He should be ashamed of himself."

Yet evidence of Grimm's appeal across the district is easy to find.

His red, white and blue campaign signs are plastered along businesses and homes up and down Staten Island's main streets. Constituents talk openly about his dedication to the district after Superstorm Sandy, which caused damage that's still being repaired in some cases.

Grimm is an aggressive campaigner who insists he can win simply by outworking his opponent.

At Andrew's Diner, he hugged a boy in a wheelchair and promised to write a letter of recommendation for another who hoped to go to West Point.

"I really feel that he was railroaded," Bob Demarest, 81, said of Grimm as he waited for his pancakes. "I want him back."

It's unlikely that the president will visit the district on Donovan's behalf. With far more consequential races across the country this fall, Trump is expected to focus on vulnerable Democratic Senate candidates in Republican-leaning states.It was after midnight at the Mile High Spirits bar near downtown Denver, and things were going well for the man in the middle of the dance floor. Patrons surrounded him and women smiled at him, some with their phones out, as he showed off his freestyle dance moves.

Then, he swung his arms back and squatted, as if to prepare for his next big move. He jumped up, arching his back and swinging his arms above his head. But as he was about to land his backflip, a gun flew out from his holster at the back of his pants. He landed and as he picked up his gun from the floor, it fired.Connie Kurtz, who turned her coming out as a lesbian into a lifetime of activism with her wife, Ruth Berman, including serving as plaintiffs in a lawsuit over domestic-partner benefits for New York City school employees, died Sunday at her home in West Palm Beach, Fla. She was 81.

The cause was liver cancer, said Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, who officiated at a religious ceremony uniting the couple in 2000 and then at another in 2011 after same-sex marriage was legalized in New York state.

Kurtz and Berman were married to men when they met in the late 1950s while living in the Contello Towers development in the Gravesend neighborhood of Brooklyn. They socialized together, and their children played together. Then Kurtz and her family moved to Israel. When she returned to visit in 1974 and met up with Berman again, things were different.

"Connie came back from Israel, and I felt joy," Berman said in "Ruthie and Connie: Every Room in the House," a 2002 documentary about them by Deborah Dickson. "Such a full, open breath of joy. And I hadn't experienced that since my children were born."

They became a couple, and then they became advocates for gay rights and ultimately a whole range of LGBTQ causes. Their stature is reflected in the name of recent legislation introduced in Congress to enhance the Older Americans Act: It is called the Ruthie and Connie LGBT Elder Americans Act.

Their decades-long story was a case of the personal becoming political.

"The coming out of both of us was the key to what we have done for the community and we had no clue we were doing it for the community," Berman said.

Constance Levy was born July 19, 1936, in New York to Elias and Rose (Laufer) Levy. Her father was a cabdriver, and her mother sold women's clothing.

In 1958 she married Bernard Kurtz. They had two children, at the same time that Berman and her husband were having three. That made their coming out even more anguishing.

"I walked out on my own kids," Kurtz told The Chicago Tribune in 2002. "No amount of money or gifts I can give them now will ever change what I did to them."

She and Berman were tentative at first about becoming romantically involved. In the documentary, they describe the day when Ruth asked for and received a kiss.

"It wasn't as a friend," Berman says in the film, "and it wasn't this movie kiss that you see tongues hanging out either." Kurtz then takes up the tale: "Ruthie, in her way, said, 'Can't you do better than that?'"

They gradually became more confident in their decision, and then more determined to help others in their position. One of their first efforts was to organize a forum called Women in Discovery, aimed at helping lesbians, especially mothers married to men, to find their way.

"We didn't counsel women to come out of the closet and dissolve marriages  unless that happened to be their goal," Kurtz said in 2002. "We simply wanted to help them be physically and mentally comfortable in whatever they chose  after exploring their options."

In addition to Berman, she is survived by her children, Eileen Ben Or and Moishe Kurtz; a sister, Sally; and Berman's three children, 20 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.The students watched as the sick puppy was eaten alive by a snapping turtle in a Preston, Idaho, junior high classroom in early March, state prosecutors alleged in a Friday filing.

Robert Crosland, a biology teacher at Preston Junior High School, has been accused of misdemeanor animal cruelty, the Associated Press reported.

Preston, nestled in the state's southeastern corner, was the setting for 2004's indie cult film "Napoleon Dynamite." But the incident brought new attention to the small town of just over 5,000. Calls and vague threats directed prompted authorities to bolster police presence at schools in the district, the AP reported in March.

The allegations surfaced after several parents came forward.

A mother of two boys at the school told the Preston Citizen the puppy was terminally ill and was given to Crosland by its grief-stricken owner; she said Crosland fed the dying puppy to the turtle in a graphic demonstration of the circle of life for his students.

Preston School District 201 Superintendent Marc Gee called the incident a "regrettable circumstance" but said it occurred after school hours, not in front of a full class, KTVB reported.

While the incident sparked worldwide outrage, some parents expressed frustration over the ordeal and have defended Crosland.

Farahlyn Hansen, the mother of the two boys, told the Citizen her sons were more upset about the outrage among school staff leveled at the teacher.

"I am not upset. I felt like it was the more humane thing for Robert to do than to just leave it (the puppy) to die," Hansen told the paper in March.

Despite what some defenders called a humane killing of a puppy, it also led to the turtle's death. The incident triggered an investigation, and state wildlife authorities seized and euthanized the turtle after determining it was a nonnative species, the AP reported.

The case was handed off to the Iowa attorney general after Franklin County Prosecutor Vic Pearson claimed a conflict of interest, according to the news wire.

Crosland and the attorney general's office could not be reached. The school did not return a request seeking comment.

If convicted, Crosland would face up to six months in jail and a $5,000 fine.

The feeding incident came before last month's other controversial wildlife classroom killing. A Florida teacher was accused of drowning two raccoons and a possum as high school students watched. He concluded they were likely culprits in the killing of chickens kept by his class.

But authorities declined to file charges after determining there was no intent to torture or harm the raccoons, which are considered nuisance animals.

By then, teacher Dewie Brewton III had taken an early retirement amid intense public scrutiny.TODAY (SUNDAY)

 Linn, Thomas M. His family will host a gathering 2-4 p.m. today at the family home, 821 W. Exchange St., Jerseyville. Family and friends are invited to stop by. Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville is in charge.



MONDAY

 Hamm, Rosemary L. Rosy. Noon Monday at Worthington Funeral Home. Visitation 10 a.m. Monday until the time of the service at the funeral home.

 Leonhard, Tobin Daniel Toby. 2 p.m. Monday at Williamson Funeral Home. The family will meet friends noon-2 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

 Stock, Barbara Jeanette. 10 a.m. Monday at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Beardstown. The family will meet with friends 3-5 p.m. today at Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown.

 Viar, Edward Lee. 11 a.m. Monday at Hendricker Funeral Home in Mount Sterling. Burial with military graveside rites will follow. Visitation 2-5 p.m. today and 8 a.m. Monday until the time of services at the funeral home.



TUESDAY

 Bomke, Joyce A. (Armstrong). A Celebration of Life ceremony 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church. The family will greet friends 1 p.m. Tuesday until the time of the service at the church. The Daws Family Funeral Home in South Jacksonville is in charge.

 Bricking, Carla L. 1 p.m. Monday at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Visitation will be 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, prior to the service, at the funeral home.

 Taylor, Warren J. Graveside service 11 a.m. Tuesday at Winchester City Cemetery. Visitation 4-7 p.m. Monday at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.



WEDNESDAY

 McClure, Robert Bob S. 11 a.m. Wednesday at Airsman Hires Funeral Home in White Hall. The family will meet friends 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

 Williams, Wilma L. (Meier). A Christian service in celebration of her life and as a witness to the resurrection 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Faith Lutheran Church in Jacksonville. A shared meal and time of fellowship will follow at Faith Lutheran Church. Visitation with family and friends 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Faith Lutheran Church. Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge.



SUNDAY, JUNE 10

 Smith, Gary Gene. Celebration of Garys life 3 p.m. Sunday, June 10, at his home in Bremen, Indiana. A private gathering will be held at a later date at his childhood home in Chandlerville. Elkhart (Indiana) Cremation Services is in charge.Le Collectif Cheikh Yassine a organise un certain nombre dactivites et de festivites pour les enfants de Gaza sous le theme  La joie des enfants de Gaza pour lAid . Ces activites ont commence le premier jour de lAid et continue jusquau 4eme jour de lAid dans la bande de Gaza.



Plusieurs activites, ont ete organisees parmi lesquelles : des competitions recompensees par des prix, des jeux, des animations et des chants presentes par un groupe ainsi que des distributions de cadeaux et daides financieres.



With 26,353 patients enrolled in the states medical marijuana program as of Saturday, up one-third since May 2017  and with the programs Board of Physicians scheduled to vote on whether to add opiate withdrawal to the list of approved conditions  dispensary owners are concerned about whether there will be enough supply to meet the ever-growing demand.

However, one of the producers and a lobbyist for the four growers, as well as Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle Seagull, say they are confident the four can meet the expected increase in consumers.

We have no problem handling additional patients, said David Lipton, CEO of Advanced Grow Labs in West Haven, one of the four original  and still only  licensed medical marijuana producers in the state. Were projected out to be able to handle product for about 75,000 patients.

Advanced Grow Labs, with 48 employees, has expanded twice since it opened in the fall of 2014, when there were about 2,000 certified patients in the program. The other growers, in Portland, Simsbury and Watertown, also have expanded to double or triple capacity, according to Linda Kowalski, lobbyist for the growers Connecticut Medical Cannabis Council.

Connecticuts medical marijuana program is regarded as one of the best in the country, and our members are proud to play an important role in this innovative and compassionate program, Kowalski wrote in an email.

She said the producers have spent millions in expansion and that the quality and purity of their products lead the nation while their pharmaceutical grade products are available to all patients in Connecticuts program.

The state program has ballooned in growth since it began with six dispensaries and those 2,000 patients, and could explode if the Board of Physicians adds opiate use disorder and opiate withdrawal to the 29 conditions now approved for adults and seven for children.

The board, which tabled votes on opioids and progressive degenerative disc disease of the spine when it met Feb. 26, will take up the two conditions again on June 25.

Patients who are certified to use marijuana for painful conditions such as cancer and sickle cell disease report that cannabis has allowed them to reduce or eliminate their use of opioids, said Angela DAmico, owner of the Compassionate Care Center of Connecticut in Bethel. Opioid dependence has become a national epidemic.

We get phone calls from parents whose children are coming out of rehab for opioid addiction, but we cant certify them, DAmico said.

Laurie Zrenda, owner of Thames Valley Alternative Relief LLC in Montville, said, I see people on a daily basis who have come off their opioids using medical marijuana.

Seagull said of the possible approval of marijuana to treat opioid addiction, It would likely add a large number of patients. Once Seagull ratifies the boards vote, the new condition must go through a legislative committee and regulatory review board, before its added to the approved list. And during that regulations process the state, and the production facilities, would have time to consider the appropriate options for expansion, Seagull said.

Meanwhile, there have definitely been periods of time when weve had issues and short supply of things, Zrenda said. The dispensary owners have formed their own Medical Marijuana Academy within the Connecticut Pharmacists Association and, Zrenda said, As a group we sent two representatives to go and visit the commissioner to talk about the issue of supply.

The pharmacists would like a fifth grower to be approved, Zrenda said. The patient count is increasing, new conditions are coming on board  and we have had issues of supply problems in the last couple of years.

But she said she understands the reluctance to approve another grower. I think they worry about them surviving given that it is a huge investment, Zrenda said. Its a huge expense to run a growth facility.  I know the state wants to keep them going and doesnt want them to go belly-up.

Zrenda said both growers and dispensary owners also have to contend with the U.S. tax code, specifically Section 280e, which forbids a business from deducting any expense connected to trafficking in controlled substances, and marijuana is listed as a Schedule 1 drug, along with heroin and cocaine. Selling it is still a federal crime.

That means the cannabis businesses cant deduct payroll or equipment as normal business expenses. If a normal business pays 25 percent in tax, were probably paying 60 percent, Zrenda said. It isnt the big money-maker that everybody thinks it is.

There are now nine dispensaries across the state  up from the original six  and the Consumer Protection Department has asked for applicants to open three to 10 more in the fall.

DAmico said the addition of new dispensaries could bring on shortages, because the growers are required to offer the same amount of product to each dispensary. She said the allocation should be based on each dispensarys number of patients.

Its medication. How do you tell your cancer patient in the middle of chemo, Sorry, we cant supply you with what youve been on?

Seagull said, Right now were not planning to add new producers, but were continuing to monitor the situation. Right now were comfortable that the producers have the capacity to serve our patients.

Advanced Grow Labs Lipton said his plant on Frontage Road in West Haven started at 16,000 square feet, is now up to 41,000 and were more productive per square foot. Starting with five employees, in addition to five owners, AGL now has 48 employees, he said.

Besides the growing areas, there are genetics rooms, where hybrids are developed from mothers and clones, Lipton said. We have a lot of new genetics and also a lot of new products. Weve got a lot more products that we are making for the patients in Connecticut now. In any given day in the dispensaries, theyve got 200 to 230 different products they have available to sell.

The program is based on a pharmaceutical model, with physicians  there are now 897 registered doctors  certifying their patients to buy up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis a month.

The patients then work with the pharmacists to choose a strain, from Lexikan  known on the street as lemon skunk  to Gwyniva, and what form to use, whether to smoke, vape, insert a capsule under the tongue, or eat as a cookie or brownie.

Each product has a particular ratio of THC, the hallucinogenic cannabinoid, to CBD, which doesnt make the user high but which reduces anxiety and nausea and aids in sleep.

With more products to choose from, the dispensary owners can run into spot shortages of particular items. We get deliveries twice a week from every producer, DAmico said. Each dispensary can get 200 vials of XYZ. If my pharmacist orders that late  its not available to us anymore.

Zrenda said that, for some strains that are high in CBD, there was a long time when we didnt have any [for] at least a couple months.

Supply and demand is a real issue, especially for products that people love. They cant keep it up, said Michael Petruzelli of Hamden, a medical marijuana patient who suffers from spina bifida caused by his fathers being exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War. What happens is, you find something that works for you  Guess what, its not available. Theres probably about five key strains that they should be growing every month.

He said he favors Lexikan flower. Its a very, very good sativa. "Itll make the most miserable person really happy. Sativa is one of two types of cannabis, along with indica. Hybrids are created using characteristics of the two.

Growing patient numbers means changing demands for specific types of medication, Seagull said. While growing capacity exists, producers also have to anticipate demand for specific medication types months in advance, and may not have a large stock of the exact medication a dispensary facility is looking to purchase on short notice.

Petruzelli believes adding another grower would bring prices down, although he said hes noticed prices dropping recently.

Lipton said prices have dropped now that the growers have recouped their startup costs. Prices have definitely come down for the patients since the program started, he said. Weve all put the money into our facilities, weve paid the money to the state.  I dont think someone could start new and be competitive.

The Consumer Protection Departments Board of Physicians will meet at 8:30 a.m. June 25 at 450 Columbus Blvd., Meeting Rooms C and D in the North Tower. They are expected to vote on opioid withdrawal and progressive degenerative disc disease at the meeting, which is open to the public.

edward.stannard@hearstmediact.com; 203-680-9382.Its against the law in Texas to let any loaded gun get in the hands of a child.

 Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick on May 20, in an interview on ABC News This Week

Patrick told a national TV audience after the May 18 Santa Fe High School shooting that he doesnt see a need for more gun regulation in that Texas already bars children from having loaded weapons.

We decided to check Patricks reference to law given that the Santa Fe shooting suspect reportedly used his fathers shotgun and handgun in the attack. Our research identified the 1995 law, though we also learned it wouldnt apply to the Santa Fe case because the suspect is 17.

Patrick, taking questions from George Stephanopoulos on the May 20 edition of ABCs This Week, said: Gun control, I believe, starts at home, George. Every person who owns a gun must be accountable for their guns at home.  We dont know all the facts yet. But this particular young man got his guns in some way from his parents home. You should have your guns locked up. Its against the law in Texas to let any loaded gun get in the hands of a child, for example.

Law confirmed

Our online search for such a law led us to a webpage about preventing Texas children from getting guns created by the San Francisco-based Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. That page says Texas has a law holding a person criminally liable if he or she, with criminal negligence, fails to secure a readily dischargeable firearm and a child under age 17 gains access to it.

Next, we turned to section 46.13 of the Texas penal code, titled Making a Firearm Accessible to a Child, which defines a readily dischargeable firearm as one loaded with ammunition, whether or not a round is in the chamber.

The law states:

A person commits an offense if a child gains access to a readily dischargeable firearm and the person with criminal negligence:

(1) failed to secure the firearm; or

(2) left the firearm in a place to which the person knew or should have known the child would gain access.

Under the law, secure means to take steps that a reasonable person would take to prevent the access to a readily dischargeable firearm by a child, including but not limited to placing a firearm in a locked container or temporarily rendering the firearm inoperable by a trigger lock or other means.

The law otherwise provides defenses to prosecution starting with whether the childs access was supervised by a person older than 18 and the firearm was for hunting, sporting or other lawful purposes.

Under the law, a violation is a Class C misdemeanor or a Class A misdemeanor if the child discharges the firearm and causes death or serious bodily injury to himself or another person.

Legislative history

Records show the legislation creating the law won approval in 1995, the same year that then-state Sen. Jerry Patterson, R-Pasadena, shepherded into law the states concealed-carry measure.

We connected with Patterson, who told us by email that the child-specific proposal, initiated by Rep. Al Edwards, D-Houston, had momentum that year in part due to testimony by a Houston couple whose son died in an accidental shooting. The boys mother, Linda Tarr, testified at the time: This bill is to save children. It is not a gun-control bill. This is a gun-responsibility act, and children are our responsibility.'

Effective law?

We also wondered about the laws effects.

The April 1995 Austin American-Statesman news story where we spotted Tarrs testimony said that in 1993, 42 children younger than 17 had been killed in accidents involving firearms.

There have lately been fewer such deaths, according to figures we requested from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Spokesman Chris Van Deusen emailed us a chart indicating that in 2014-15, 11 Texas children younger than 17 were killed in accidents involving firearms.

Separately, Ari Freilich, a lawyer for the Giffords center, said by email that Texas is among 27 states with child access prevention laws potentially making adults legally accountable for letting minors gain unsupervised access to guns.

But Freilich called the Texas law weaker than laws in some states because it only applies to adults who leave readily operable loaded firearms accessible to unsupervised minors. As a result, Texas law would likely not apply even if an adult left an unsupervised minor home alone with an unloaded firearm out on the table right next to a box of ammunition, Freilich wrote.

After the Santa Fe shooting, the center posted a memo to Gov. Greg Abbott stating the law should be amended, at the least, to apply to minors under 18 and to cases where an adult leaves unloaded firearms and ammunition accessible to the minor.

We also asked the NRA-tied Texas State Rifle Association about the law. By phone, Alice Gene Tripp praised it, saying: It doesnt try to criminalize how you store your guns. It simply puts a penalty in statute if you dont do it effectively. Texas allows adults to make adult decisions and penalizes those who dont do it correctly.

Our ruling

Patrick said: Its against the law in Texas to let any loaded gun get in the hands of a child.

A 1995 state law makes it a misdemeanor if a person with criminal negligence fails to secure a loaded gun and a child younger than 17 accesses it or if a person leaves the gun where he or she knew or should have known the child would get it.

We rate this claim True: The statement is accurate and theres nothing significant missing.The percentage of Texans who support stricter gun laws has dropped, the latest Quinnipiac University poll shows.

Conducted a week after the Santa Fe High School shooting, the poll shows that 49 percent of Texans support stricter gun laws while 45 percent are opposed, according to the survey of 961 residents with a margin of error of +/- 3.8 percentage points.

In April, the same poll showed 55 percent of Texans supported stricter gun laws and 41 percent were opposed a 10 percentage point drop for Texans seeking gun control measures.

AFTER SANTA FE: Ted Cruz says injured students told him 'don't take our guns'

The Quinnipiac poll also surveyed Texans on specific gun proposals.

"The tragedy at the Santa Fe school south of Houston changed few opinions among Texas voters about gun control," wrote Quinnipiac Poll analyst Peter Brown in a news release. "Support for gun control in general is down slightly, while support for background checks for all gun buyers is virtually unchanged."

Fernando Ramirez is a reporter for Chron.com and the Houston Chronicle. You can follow him on Twitter at @fernramirez93.

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Nelson Chamisa, the MDC Alliance presidential candidate, has courted controversy over statements that he has made at political rallies and other public fora lately.

The statements, including political assertions and promises, have earned him the liar tag that political observers say may have tarnished his name and could dent his presidential aspirations. MDC-T secretary-general Douglas Mwonzora (DM), however, says Chamisa is not a liar at all and advises that people should learn to distinguish between lies and political banter, including political exaggerations that he says should be expected when people are campaigning. The Standard reporter Blessed Mhlanga (BM) sat down with Mwonzora on Friday to discuss this issue and others to do with the partys preparedness ahead of the forthcoming elections. Below are excerpts from the interview:

BM: Are you confident the coming elections will be free, fair and credible?

DM: It is possible to have free and credible elections in Zimbabwe. It is possible to implement the electoral reforms that we have been asking for, contrary to what people have been saying. These electoral reforms dont require time. for example, you dont require time to remove the military element within the Zimbabwean Electoral Commission [Zec]. It does not require a day to open up the media space and the democratic space. Further outstanding issues  include the audit of the voters roll, external audit of the voters roll  that does not require time at all. We are also calling for inclusive observation of the printing of the ballot paper, an end to the abuse of traditional institutions as well as the military. These demands are not difficult to fulfil at all. They simply require political will.

BM: Some people are saying some of your demands now sound like a broken record that you have been playing for a long time, but which you know and understand will not be fulfilled.

DM: We must never get tired of making genuine demands. The more we repeat this message, the more it will get into the thick skull of this junta. We should never give up. We have been persevering and it has been bearing fruit. It may have been slow, but it has been bearing fruit and I urge Zimbabweans to be patient and resilient.

BM: There are some who think that you are not ready for an election. What is your response?

DM: The numbers that we have been drawing at our rallies are there for everybody to see. We are clearly the party with the biggest following in this country at present. Although the MDC has split, it is facing a Zanu PF that has split into five formations. It spilt into NPP, ZimPF, UPP, NPF, Zimbabwe Peoples First, and Zapu. The most fragmented Zanu PF in history is what we are facing today. We are also facing a Zanu PF without a charismatic leader. He (President Emmerson Mnangagwa) does not have oratory skills. He does not seem to have the political mastery that [former president Robert] Mugabe did have. So we know that one-on-one, we are facing a very weak opponent.

BM: But in the past the MDC-T has said Mnangagwa was behind Mugabes electoral victories?

DM: The brutality that was perpetrated on the people in the past elections was clearly traceable to him as Mugabes deputy as well as people who today constitute the core of his establishment. But the difference between this election and the previous elections is the presence of the international community, Commonwealth, European Union, African Union and the Kofi Annan foundation. All these were not welcome in Mugabes Zimbabwe.

BM: Lets talk about the oratory and eloquence skills that you were talking about. MDC Alliance president Nelson Chamisa has been accused of lying most of the time he uses his oratory skills. What do you say about this?

DM: The two are different, arent they? Let me go to the oratory skills of president Chamisa. He is a man of talent and there is no question about it. You put him in front of the people, his speaking abilities are good and he is not disrespectful of the crowd and his opponent. Now sometimes people confuse what you are calling lies and some political banter and political exaggerations that happen when you do campaigns which are meant to express a point. An example is sometimes given to its extremes and I think this is where people have been missing it. But lets go to some of the key messages such as the promise to deliver spaghetti roads: I know that for Zimbabweans to imagine a transport system as elaborate as the system in London is something that is unimaginable. This is because Zimbabweans have set themselves very low standards and when you have someone who gives them a vision with such possibilities, people then think that it is not sensible. Yet it is actually sensible and doable; it is something that other nations have achieved and it is something that some people have actually done. On the issue of so-called spaghetti road networks, South Africans have actually built them and they are there for everyone to see just across the Limpopo. That is the description of the road system that Chamisa has for a future Zimbabwe. We are not thinking of Zimbabwe tomorrow, we are not thinking of Zimbabwe next year, we are thinking of Zimbabwe in the long-term.

BM: The recent MDC-T primary elections have been disputed by some of the losers who claim they were manipulated. Have these polls not weakened the party?

DM: No, they have not. This is because the MDC system has a safety valve. Any member who is aggrieved by the process has the right to appeal. Right now, this afternoon we are sitting to determine 154 appeals of members who feel for one reason or another that their rights have been infringed. They do have that right to appeal and we hope that when we sit and hear these appeals, we will come to justice. So the availability of an internal remedy makes our people feel more at home in the understanding that if they are not happy about anything they can approach the leadership and their appeals can be heard. Most importantly, once we see that there is electoral fraud, even in the primaries, we have made it a point that we disqualify the person who wouldve won. We have evidence of people who attempted to cheat in the elections, some people who tried vote-buying, some people who tried to intimidate opponents, some people who tried to steal CVs of their opponents. Once we have that evidence, we disqualify that person. This is different from what happened in Zanu PF where members complained about cheating and so on and the party did nothing about it. At MDC we always do something about it.

BM: But we have seen senior officials in the party pulling out of the primaries, people like Jessie Majome and yet you say that you have working safety valves?

DM: Yes, we do have such valves because we are actually in the process of dialoguing with Majome. The problem was that she raised her complaint and left before the complaint could be dealt with yet we were willing to deal with the complaint. Right now the chairmans office is actually engaging Majome and we hope that the dialogue will yield something positive.

BM : But she says she doesnt know anything about that engagement.

DM: Well, the chairmans office is actually dealing with that, and I am not so sure if that is correct to say that she says she does not know about the engagement. If she is right that she doesnt know about it, then she will soon get to know about it.

BM: There have been sentiments that there is some sense of entitlement within the MDC-T parliamentarians who feel that they cannot be challenged in their constituencies. Are there such MPs?

DM: A number of our MPs were defeated in the primary elections, mostly in Harare. We have very high-profile figures who did not make it in the primaries. We opened up this contest to every member of the party. You do not have special rights in the party simply by virtue of being a parliamentarian. You have the same rights as every other member, especially when it comes to selection for the next parliament. They (incumbent MPs) do have superior rights while they are sitting in parliament before we declare the primary elections open. So its a pity if anybody has a feeling of entitlement which they should not have.

BM: Lets talk about resources: Zanu PF has been splashing on huge campaign billboards and banners, can you match that?

DM: Well, we cannot match them resource-wise because they are the government. They have access to resources including national resources. Their president campaigns on the back of the national resource  state resources. He uses a state helicopter, state fuel, state cars and so on and so do his ministers. But we do not need to match them resource for resource. In fact, we only need a quarter of what they have in order to mount a credible fight. Yes, we do not have enough money because our money comes from the government and they give us as and when they feel like and they abuse their power over us. But we have other methods of getting around that disability as the MDC.

BM: What is the real beef between Chamisa and Thokozani Khupe?

DM: It is a regrettable development, I should confess. It is unnecessary and we are trying to have dialogue between the two leaders. We hope that each one of them finds the wisdom of working together and we are confident that each one of them looks at the greater good of the Zimbabwean people. So the efforts that we are making of engaging them hopefully will help.

Going to court, I will tell you as a lawyer of 26 years of experience, that going to court should always be the last thing that people do. A court yields a winner and a loser, but dialogue yields a winner and a winner  so we are going to encourage dialogue.

BM: On the issue of the audit of the voters roll, Zec says they are using inspection as an external method to audit the voters roll. Does this provide for what you are calling for?

DM: Zec has always said that and [Zec chairperson] Justice Priscilla Chigumba in particular, talks like a person who is not a judge when it comes to that. She says that our law does not provide for external audit yet that ought not to be the reasoning. The reasoning must be that our law does not disallow the external audit; the law says in broad terms that Zec must do everything that makes the election system credible and satisfactory. External audit is one of those things, so the misinterpretation with Zec is that the law must specifically demand that. But this is reasonable, this is international practice, that is number one. the second one is that Zec has not provided us with a provisional voters roll. We did request for it and they didnt give us and they are now saying they published it on their website yesterday and that which is on the website does not comply with the law. It must be electronic, and must be analysable. The one that is on the website is a provisional one and is not analysable. They want to give us the final voters roll after nomination, yet we need the voters roll now in order to campaign because this campaign is now polling station-based. So we now need to know who is where and then we target those people. We also want to know who is capable of nominating a candidate because a candidate must be nominated by registered voters, but without the voters roll there is no way we are able to know.

BM: The MDC-T seems wary about the strength and support base of some of the candidates coming from other MDC Alliance partners.

DM: We have noticed that some of the Alliance partners have provided very weak candidates who do not have a following. We have brought that to their attention and we need candidates that are popular with the people and that suggestion does not jeopardise the alliance at all. It is an alliance predicated on truth telling, fair assessment on who is the best and that is what we are doing

BM: Will this not jeopardise the interests as well as the confidence of other alliance partners as some may question how you measured the weakness of their candidates?

DM: We use the principle of sovereignty of the people. After everything is said and done, it is the people on the ground who have to decide, otherwise this alliance becomes an elite pact. We dont want it to be an elite pact, we want it to be something organic.

BM: Where are you standing yourself?

DM: Well, I am going to be a senator for Manicaland province. I initially wanted to be a senator for Harare province, but opted for Manicaland and I am going to win.

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Related Zimbabwe Latest News- Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo state wants APGA to finally wind-up and join the ruling All Progressives Congress

- Okorocha says this has become necessary in view of the way APGA uses him to market itself even negatively

- The governor explains with details of his allegation

Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo state has asked the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to immediately start winding up and fuse into the All Progressives Congress (APC). He said through a statement by his spokesperson, Sam Onwuemeodo.

Okorocha said if the party thinks it can no longer live without brandishing his name in a quite unfortunate manner, it better fuse into the APC.

Vanguard accused the governor accusing APGA of using his name to market itself and that it was even doing it the wrong way.

READ ALSO: Police allegedly arrest politician behind Ekiti shooting

The statement read thus:

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) should, as a matter of fact, wind-up and fuse into the All Progressives Congress (APC) if the Party cannot fly again without brandishing Governor Rochas Okorochas name in a quite unfortunate manner.

Innocent Nigerians who have been following events in the past three months would agree with us that the APGA elements have decided to be using Governor Okorochas name to market their party but in a very wrong way. First, they came up with the ridiculous story of Okorocha wanting to return to APGA. And they never said anything that could convince anybody to believe them.

They never said whether he wrote to them or approached any of them, or even sent people to approach them on his behalf. They also did not mention what could be the attractions in APGA this time, that could make the Imo governor thinking about returning to a party he left with the soul and dropped it on the APC table. We kept quiet and never talked to them.

Few days ago, the national chairman of the party, Chief Victor Oye, had a press conference in Abuja and the target of the press conference was Governor Okorocha. Chief Oye heavily insulted the Imo governor unprovoked and unwarranted. He talked about how the party would not accept Rochas again, without telling the world whether there was any application from Okorocha to that effect.

It is obvious that Chief Oye and his Cohorts in APGA are yet to recover from the deep cut the exit of Governor Okorocha inflicted on APGA, for the merger that saw the emergence of APC. They are yet to recover from the shock occasioned by that patriotic action by Governor Okorocha and they cant help the situation, aside talking about Okorocha and APGA as if something is left with the Party.

Infact, Oye and co are using Okorochas name as a marketing strategy for APGA. He could do that in a more refined manner than using insults and abuses. Governor Okorocha took the soul of APGA to APC and he did it in the overall interest of Ndigbo and Nigeria. He deserves accolades from reasonable sons and daughters of Igbo land.

Chief Oye also tried to play down Governor Okorochas monumental achievements in Imo. And in case he has not read our claims on the governors achievements in Imo, we may repeat it here for his sake. What Governor Okorocha has achieved in Imo as governor have surpassed the grand total of the achievements of all those who had governed the State before him. We expect him to challenge us on this claim if he so wishes.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

Equally, Chief Oye should work and make APGA win another state in the South-East where there are five states and only one is APGA at the moment. And in 2011 Okorocha won his election for who God has made him to be and not because of APGA. If Chief Oye doubts this hypothesis let him make APGA to win in Enugu or Ebonyi that also have close boundaries with Anambra state that is controlled by APGA this time.

Finally, Igbo people like Oye should learn how to celebrate their God-given stars like Owelle Okorocha instead of trying fruitlessly to run down such men.

Legit.ng earlier reported that some leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the southeast endorsed the retention of national officers representing the zone at the partys National Working Committee (NWC).

Orji Kalu, a former governor of Abia, stated this after a meeting of the stakeholders on Thursday, May 31, in Abuja.

Why Governors Steal? Rochas Okorocha of Imo State | Legit.ng TV

Source: LegitThe Peoples Democratic Party has won the by-election held on Saturday, June 2, to fill the vacant seat of Ibarapa East constituency in Oyo state House of Assembly. The vacancy occurred following the demise of Michael Adeyemo, the speaker of the legislature.

The Nigerian Tribune reports that the result was announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The candidates name was given as Adebo Ogundoyin, 31, and graduate of Babcock University.

Daily Nigerian reports that the PDP candidate won with 6,277 votes against the APC with 4,619 votes, and Accord Party with 2,859 votes.

Adebo Ogundoyin defeated the candidate of the APC in the election. Credit: Daily Nigerian

READ ALSO: Just in: Our candidate, supporters not safe - APC suspends campaign in Ekiti

Seven parties were cleared for the election. These include Accord Party, Peoples Democratic Party, All Progressives Congress and Fresh Democratic Party.

The others are Hope Democratic Party, Nigerian Peoples Congress and Mega Party of Nigeria.

The election took place in ten ward with the following results:

Accredited voters 14333

ACCORD  2,859

APC  4,619

PDP  6,277

FDP  83

HDP  14

MPN  09

NPC  60

Total valid vote  13,871

The state recently witnessed the emergence of the minority leader of the House, Olagunju Ojo, its speaker unopposed.

READ ALSO: Video: We used to kill in PDP during congress - Orji Uzor Kalu

The emergence of Ojo followed his nomination by Joshua Oyebamiji of Akinyele II seconded by Gbenga Oyekola of Atiba constituency, at Tuesday, May 15 plenary.

Legit.ng earlier reported how Honourable Michael Adeyemo, speaker of the Oyo House of Assembly died.

The report said some members of the House of Assembly confirmed this on Friday, April 27. TVC news also reports that Adeyemo died of heart attack.

Adeyemo, in his lifetime represented Ibarapa east local government area. He emerged speaker of Oyo assembly in 2015.

It was also reported how the Oyo state government on Friday, April 27, announced a three-day mourning period in honour of the speaker of the state assembly, Michael Adeyemo who died in Ibadan at the age of 47.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

The Oyo state governor, Abiola Ajimobi in a statement said the mourning period starts from April 30 to May 2, adding that flags be flown at half mast during the period.

Why Governors Steal? Rochas Okorocha of Imo State | Legit.ng TV

Source: LegitFormer BBNaija star Abiri Oluwabusayomi popularly known as Khloe has taken to social media to call out blogger who accused her of being infected with HIV.

The blogger who was identified as Instablog9ja has received several curses from the fashion entrepreneur. It was reported that the troll started after a follower asked if Khloe was suffering from the disease because she looked frail in her pictures.

Khloe in her post warned the blogger to stay her case. She added that the blogger and her associates will know no peace has they have decided to be the demon in her life.

READ ALSO: Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola celebrates only son as he turns a year older (photos)

The post which has been taken down from Khloes page reads: @instablo9ja stay off my gaddam life yooo! Today will be the last day you and your associates will know peace. As you have decided to be the demon in my life. May Almighty God show you no mercy as you sufferin as much as God liveth all you lay your hands on as from today will be null. From today hence forth happiness, goodness, favour will never near your footstep. This is not a curse its a prayer against my enemy and this wont come to past on your life if only I have sincerely hurt anyone before or stood behind a mask to make others life miserable. @instablog9ja, go and be miserable. AMEN.

See screenshot below:

PAY ATTENTION: Get hottest gist on Naija Uncensored Facebook Group

Confirming the HIV report was true, Instablog9ja also took to their page to tender a public apology to Khloe saying:

We are writing you this letter to let you know that we have absolutely nothing against you and our hearts are pure towards you and every other person we post about. We apologise if you felt offended by our caption. Kindly permit us to give an explanation as to why it came that way, so that we can at least put this behind us. A follower asked about your HIV status and your answer was yes. We are in no way trying to pull you, its not in our modus operandi and we sincerely apologise if we have made you feel as if we are targeting you. Your affirmative response to the followers question was why we used the caption and it wasnt intended to spite you in any way. However, we are not too big to say sorry for inadvertently offending you. It wasnt our intention at all. Please do accept our unequivocal apology.

Nawa o!

What do you think will happen if women rule the world? (Nigerian Street Interview) | Legit.ng TV - on Legit.ng TV.

Source: LegitBy Don Quijones, of Spain, UK, and Mexico, and an editor at Wolf Street. Originally published at Wolf Street.

War on Cash Suffers Setback.

For over 12 hours on Friday, shopping centers in the UK and other parts of Europe were plunged into chaos as millions of consumers were unable to use their Visa debit or credit cards at points of sale. The credit card company, which was finally able to restore normal service early Saturday morning, said it had no reason to believe the hardware failure was due to any unauthorized access or malicious event.

While the mayhem caused by the outage may have been short lived, it served as a stark reminder of the risks, both for consumers and retailers, of depending purely on cashless payments. In the UK, the chaos unleashed was particularly acute since it is one of the worlds most cashless economies, pipped to the post only by Canada and Sweden, as a recent study by industry analysts reported.

In 2017, cards overtook cash for retail payments in UK for the first time ever, according to figures from the British Retail Consortium. According to Visa, payment processing through its systems accounts for a staggering 1 in every 3 of all retail spending in the UK. Which is why, when those systems stopped working yesterday, the chaos was greater in the UK than almost anywhere else as cashless customers missed trains, were unable to fill up their cars, pay for their groceries, or even clear their bar tab  this was Friday, after all!

There is never a good time for the payments system to go down but a Friday afternoon, when there is a flood of people leaving work, must be among the worst, one banking industry source said. The only way for people to pay for stuff was with co-branded Mastercard cards, or hard cold cash. Luckily, Visa cards were still working at ATMs, although the queues were considerably longer than normal.

In a beautiful irony, Visa, a company whose stated mission is to put cash out of business as quickly as possible, had little choice but to urge its customers to withdraw and use physical bank notes for transactions until the technical issue was resolved. Without access to cash, the chaos caused by yesterdays outage would have been immeasurably worse.

While the UK has happily embraced cashless living, with a resultant explosion in personal debt levels, in many other countries Visa has been dogged by the stubborn survival of cash and checks, despite widespread government and corporate efforts to kill them off. Globally, check and cash transactions totaled $17 trillion in 2016  up 2% from a year earlier. To try to counter that trend, Visa rolled out a new US initiative in the summer of 2017 that offered to award 50 eligible retail businesses (online businesses are excluded) up to $10,000 each if they committed to refusing cash payments.

Visa is thinking of extending the initiative to its UK market, although it is roundly criticized by consumer groups, who say cash is still vital for many people. Serious questions have also been raised about the oft-touted financial benefits of going 100% cashless. According to a study that Visa recently conducted, if businesses in 100 U.S. cities transitioned from cash to digital, those cities would stand to experience net benefits of $312 billion per year.

Its not hard to guess who would be the biggest beneficiary. Card fees, which are paid by merchants and usually passed on to customers via higher prices, normally range between 1% and 3%. Among the entities that get to divvy this moolah up are the bank that issued the visa card and the credit card network  such as Visa, MasterCard, Amex and the like. Visa gets just a small piece of the action, but if it is on every transaction, it adds up. In 2016 Visa extracted $15 billion from processing transactions globally without even carrying any credit risk (the banks have to deal with that).

Going completely cashless with risks, as consumers in Europe were just reminded: system outage. If the payment system goes down and all you have to pay with are cards or your mobile phone, you could suddenly find yourself quite literally cashless, as happened to many Puerto Ricans after the power outages in 2017, caused by Hurricane Maria, knocked out electronic transactions and ATMs for days or weeks on end.

It was a stark reminder of just how fragile and vulnerable a 100% cashless society would be  at least until a cashless system can be created that is 100% safe from the threats posed by natural disasters, accidents, cybercriminals, and basic human incompetence. And its why cash retains its crucial role in the payment universe, whatever Visa, driven by its desire for more profits and a larger market share, might want people to believe. Even some of Europes senior central bankers are now willing to publicly concede, printed banknotes should retain their place and their role in society as legal tender for a long time to come.

For a country to go cashless is too risky and systematically excludes the most vulnerable people. Read Even the Worlds Most Cashless Nation Doesnt Want to Go Fully CashlessNATO has played an important role in the domain of civil emergency response for twenty years. On 3 June 1998, the Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC) was established. The EADRCC is NATOs principal civil emergency response mechanism.

The EADRCC stands ready as a 24/7 clearing-house mechanism for the coordination of requests and offers of international assistance amongst NATO Allies and partners.

The coordination activities involve close cooperation with NATO Military Authorities and consultation with International Organisations such as the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA), the European Commissions Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The Centres mandate was initially limited to natural and man-made disasters and to the geographical area of fifty countries, including NATO Allies and the signatories of the Partnership for Peace. Over time, the mandate has been widened to cover also requests for assistance in the event of a major chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear (CBRN) incident and gradually extended to cover the territories of NATO partners from the Mediterranean Dialogue and the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative, as well as of other partners across the globe. Currently, the Centres mandate covers the geographical area of 70 countries.

Over the last 20 years, the Centre has been responding to more than 70 requests for assistance from nations affected by natural and man-made disasters. In 2005, the EADRCC played an important coordinating role in NATOs humanitarian relief to the United States after hurricane Katrina and to Pakistan after the devastating earthquake. In 2017 and 2018 EADRCC coordinated international assistance following requests received from countries affected by floods, forest fires, technological disasters as well as medical supply crisis.

The Centre personnel consists of members of the NATO International Staff and Voluntary National Contributions (VNCs) seconded by Allies and partner countries. Over the last two decades, 24 nations contributed with more than 40 VNCs.

In addition to its day-to-day activities and immediate responses to sudden-onset disasters, the EADRCC conducts large consequence management exercises with NATO countries and partners. Over the last two decades, 48 nations participated in seventeen EADRCC exercises. The 18th EADRCC consequence management field exercise will be hosted by Serbia in October 2018.General Petr Pavel, Chairman of the NATO Military Committee visited Nouakchott, Mauritania from 29-30 May 2018. While Mauritania has been a partner of NATOs Mediterranean Dialogue since 1995, the visit marks the first time a Chairman of the NATO Military Committee visits Mauritania as Mauritania and NATO seek to enhance their practical cooperation.

During his visit, the Chairman met with His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz, the Chief of Defence of the Mauritanian Armed Forces, Major General Mohamed Ahmed Cheikh El Ghazouani, the Minister of Defence, Mr. Diallo Mamadou Bathia, high representatives from the G5 Sahel executive secretariat, as well as other senior level military officials.

During the meeting with the President of Mauritania, discussion focused on the importance of continued cooperation between NATO and Mauritania, and Mauritanias efforts deal with the ongoing regional security issues. General Pavel thanked the President for Mauritanias continued strong commitment to NATO and welcomed the constant exchange and visits from high level military and political Mauritanian officials to NATO Headquarters in Brussels. Both NATO and Mauritania benefit from our cooperation which ranges across many levels. These meetings improve the understanding of NATOs policies and cooperation opportunities open to Mauritania as well as strengthen NATOs understanding of Mauritania, which in turn promotes better mutual understanding and trust  stated the Chairman.

Following an official welcome ceremony, General Pavel met with Major General El Ghazouani. The Generals discussed NATO and Mauritanian practical cooperation, regional security challenges and NATOs Projecting Stability initiative. The Chairman stressed how nothing happened in a vacuum, and that the threats and challenges facing Mauritian and the surrounding region, also affected the Alliance. Threats and challenges such as terrorism and extremism have a global reach so it makes sense that if we share the same challenges, we should also share solutions, said General Pavel.

Discussions with Mr. Diallo Mamadou Bathia reaffirmed NATO and Mauritanias ongoing cooperation in the framework of the Mediterranean Dialogue partnership and the need to counter regional instability. With the complex nature of regional challenges, it is essential to look for and provide holistic solutions which bring together economic, social, political, non-governmental, other international organizations as well as the military. The Chairman stressed during his press statement, in this ever changing security environment, now more than ever, it is important that we work together to increase global security and stability.

While in Nouakchott, General Pavel took the opportunity to visit the new G5 Sahel College and meet with high representatives at the G5 Executive Secretariats Headquarters. Touring the college, the Chairman stressed the importance of education and training as it enhances not only an individuals knowledge and skills but also fosters interoperability with partners. Following the meeting with the G5 Sahel high representatives, the Chairman welcomed the detailed briefings he received from the subject matter experts on the ongoing security and development projects and tasks.

G5 Sahel or G5S is an institutional framework for coordination of regional cooperation in development policies and security matters in West Africa. It was formed on 16 February 2014 in Nouakchott, Mauritania at a summit of five Sahel countries: Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger.(Natural News) Wouldnt it be nice if independent bloggers and journalists could do their work without constantly being harassed by social media giants and federal departments claiming to be combating fake news? Perhaps one day this will become a reality, but not today.

Last month, Big Law Business reported that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is now working to build a massive database on Internet journalists, editors, foreign correspondents and bloggers as a means of identifying what they consider to be top media influences. To do this, the DHS is seeking assistance from a contractor to help it monitor traditional news sources on social media and identify any and all news coverage relating to the departments operations, according to a request for information that was officially released to the public on April 3 of this year.

Ultimately, the goal is to track over 290,000 global news sources, including everything from online content to print to radio, as well as several local, national and international publications that have a prominent presence online. Additionally, the DHS is looking to be able to track media information in a wide range of languages, including Arabic, Chinese and Russian, and then instantly translate those sources to English.

Services shall provide media comparison tools, design and rebranding tools, communication tools, and the ability to identify top media influencers, said the DHS in a statement, adding that the department has a critical need to incorporate these functions into their programs in order to better reach federal, state, local, tribal, and private partners.

The move, which many people are concerned will infringe upon their First Amendment free speech rights, comes amid heightened fears that foreign nations are trying to interfere with U.S. elections by perpetuating fake news and deceptive information. However, as we have seen time and time again, fake news is often code for any content that does not explicitly conform with the liberal, social justice agenda, meaning that this stunt coming out of the Department of Homeland Security could very well be just another attack on conservatism. (Related: Anti-conservative censorship spreads from campuses to Google and other oppressive tech giants.)

The ground work has already been laid

Its not exactly a secret that Facebook has committed itself to combating what it considers to be fake news  Mark Zuckerberg and other high-level employees have discussed it openly numerous times in the past. However, there is reason to believe that its not true fake news they are interested in censoring, but rather any sources that are even remotely conservative in nature, even if those conservative sources are completely factual.

In April, the Daily Caller reported Facebook wasnt allowing users to share one of their stories that had been posted on the social media site on the basis that it could be a spam. Our security systems have detected that a lot of people are posting the same content, which could mean that its spam, read the Facebook message that was presented to users when they attempted to share the story. Please try a different post. (Related: Here is a full list of conservative news sites that have been banned by Google and Facebook.)

The only problem was that the story published by the Daily Caller was far from spam, nor was it fake news. Rather, the Daily Caller was reporting on the 300 missing text messages between FBI Agent Peter Strzok and FBI lawyer Lisa Page that were handed over to congress back in April. This was a story that numerous media outlets reported on, and the idea that it was spam, fake news or anything of the sort is truly laughable. It serves as a great example of how Facebook, as well as many other social media giants and Internet-based companies, use the excuse of combating fake news when theyre really censoring conservative content.

Independent journalists and bloggers should be extremely concerned with what the Department of Homeland Security is doing. Their free speech rights are, without a doubt, in jeopardy. Read more at Technocrats.news.

Sources include:

BigLawBusiness.com

DailyCaller.com(Natural News) Many things are being reinvented today into smaller, more portable sizes so we can easily bring them with us. From collapsible utensils to foldable ballet flats, compact cameras and compact laptops, companies always discover new ways to make our lives easier.

Recently, a startup company introduced FinalStraw to the world. It is the first-ever collapsible, reusable straw made out of stainless steel. In comparison to its counterparts, the products unique selling point is its very own sexy case which you can easily attach to your key chain.

The case itself was made from plastic, but the startup company assured that only 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic was used during production. Using metal for the case was out of question, due to the weight and costly price.

Essentially, the purpose of making it collapsible and adding its own case, is so that people wont forget it whenever they go out. By leaving them where the keys are, people are able to bring it with them anywhere, any time.

The package also includes a tiny squeegee to help maintain the cleanliness of the straw. All materials used in creating FinalStraw are BPA-free and the product is dishwasher-safe. It also boasts of its patented design that ensured soft straw-ends, making it safe even for children. In addition, the straw was designed to last a lifetime.

There are also FinalStraw Ambassador Cards provided for every purchase of the straw which the owner could leave at any restaurant or food place that still uses plastic ones. The cards serve as a request, asking these establishments to only serve straw when a customer asks for one. Furthermore, it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Using the website Kickstarter.com, the initial goal of creators, Emma Cohen and Miles Pepper, was to raise 12,500 dollars to fund both the business and the campaign it supports. However, due to great reception by the public, FinalStraw has already gathered 1,894,878 dollars worth of pledges from all over the world.

In an email interview, Cohen said, The success of our Kickstarter just goes to show that people want reusables, they just need to be convenient and [actually] make sense. She added that the project was 575 percent funded within its first 24 hours in the website.

The whole idea of straws being an environmental hazard started bothering Cohen while she was traveling in Thailand. According to her, she saw countless of straws on the beach and the disturbing sight never left her mind from then on.

FinalStraw materialized years later when she met co-founder Pepper after her talk at a TEDx conference at Los Amos National Laboratory.

Currently, the startups working on production for all orders made, and the estimated delivery of the products is on November 2018. Now that the projects proven successful, Cohen and Pepper are making it their mission to provide everyone with the highest quality, socially responsible and coolest reusables possible.

Replacing plastic straws

Single-use plastic straws take about 200 years before they completely break down, and because the human population use 8.5 billion straws a year, the earth is serving as a junkyard for these trash.

In the U.S. alone, 500 million straws are discarded in just one day and they all end up in landfills and/or find their way to different bodies of water. They become microplastics which are very harmful to marine life.

According to the Strawless Ocean Organization, at least 71 percent of seabirds and 30 percent of turtles were found with plastics inside their stomachs. Whats sad and alarming at the same time is that these creatures mortality rate is at 50 percent once they ingest plastic.

The company responsible for FinalStraw has recently teamed-up with the Plastic Pollution Coalition to support their project called The Last Plastic Straw Movement. Aside from this, there are many other non-profit organizations that support the cause that can help you learn more about the issue.

Find out more about the condition of our environment at Enviro.news.

Sources included:

EcoWatch.com

Metro.co.uk

KickStarter.comReports indicate close to 30 standardbred racehorses have perished in a barn fire that took place during the early morning hours of Saturday, June 2 at the Mount Hope Training Center in New York.

The training center is located approximately 26 miles south of Monticello Raceway and operated, according to its website, by trainer Rich Banca. The blaze was handled by the Otisville Fire Company, who has yet to offer an official statement on the blaze other than to "thank all mutual aid companies, fire investigators, Deputy fire coordinators, Mobile Life, New York State Fire for all the help at this morning's barn fire."

Since the tragic fire, a pair of GoFundMe pages (available here and here) have been started to help those affected by the loss of life and equipment.

Trot Insider will continue to follow this story and publish more details as they become available.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the connections of the horses involved in the Mount Hope Training Center barn fire.A brush fire in Laguna Beach and Aliso Viejo had been reduced to 150 acres with all evacuation orders lifted for Laguna Beach on Sunday evening.

The wind-driven Aliso Fire was 40 percent contained and at 150 acres as of approximately 6:30 p.m. Sunday, according to the Orange County Fire Authority.

Mandatory evacuation orders were lifted for Aliso Viejo around 9 p.m. Saturday, but around 300 homes and 600 residents remained evacuated as of around 10:20 a.m. Sunday, including residents in the Top of the World neighborhood of Laguna Beach, the Laguna Beach Police Department said.

Residents on the west or ocean side of Alta Laguna Boulevard were allowed to return to their homes as of 8 a.m., said Laguna Beach Emergency Operations Coordinator Jordan Villwock.

PHOTOS: Spring Wildfire Scorches Brush in Southern Orange County

"Although it doesn't seem like it's an active firefight right now, it actually is because there is the potential for growth," Orange County All Hazard Incident Team Capt. Thanh Nguyen said on Sunday morning, adding that afternoon winds could cause the fire to grow once again and that the scorching heat could pose a challenge to firefighters in full uniform.

Fortunately, that wasn't the case, as firefighters made progress and allowed residents to return home before sunset.

At one point, the fire forced mandatory evacuations of 2,145 homes and quickly grew to more than 250 acres on Saturday afternoon. The fire was first reported shortly after 1 p.m. and quickly grew from an original half-acre.

It burned in the Aliso Woods Canyon behind Soka University, the Orange County Fire Authority said. The blaze encompassed parts of both Laguna Beach and Aliso Viejo and forced evacuations in both communities.

The rapid growth of the fire was best illustrated when it more than doubled from 70 acres at approximately 4 p.m. to 150 acres at approximately 5 p.m. with zero percent containment, per the Laguna Beach Police Department.

At 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, the fire had burned 200 acres, and the Orange County Fire Authority updated that the fire had grown to more than 250 acres at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Residents in the Top of the World neighborhood all the way to Alta Laguna Park in Laguna Beach were evacuated as more than 400 firefighters battled flames.

Two firefighters were slightly injured in the firefight, Nguyen said, with one being taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure and the other being pulled from the fire line.More than 3,000 people are expected to ride out of Daly City's Cow Palace early Sunday in one of the Bay Area's most longstanding HIV/AIDS fundraising efforts, the AIDS/Lifestyle ride.

Members of the media covering the event must arrive by 6:30 a.m. in order to park inside the Cow Palace gated areas, organizers said. Any media arriving after 6:30 a.m. or leaving before 7:45 a.m. should park outside the gated areas at the Cow Palace.

The Cow Palace is located at 2600 Geneva Ave. in Daly City.

Participants are expected to begin arriving around 5 a.m. The opening ceremony is scheduled to begin at 6 a.m., and cyclists will begin riding out at 6:30 a.m., organizers said. There will be a lunch stop between 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. at San Gregorio Sate Beach.

The AIDS/Lifestyle ride is in its 25th year, and lasts 7 days, spanning 545 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The event raises millions of dollars annually to support the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the HIV and AIDS-related services of the Los Angeles LGBT center, organizers said.A happy ending is likely in store for the three mutilated puppies found in an Oakland garbage pile over Memorial Day Weekend, though their abuser hasn't yet been found.

Puppies Freya and Chloe are recovering like champs from jaw surgery and are able to eat, and the third, Frigg, is healing from having her paw chopped off, said Rebecca Katz, executive director of Oakland Animal Services.

Also, "There is a lot of interest in adoption" for Freya and Chloe, and someone has already stepped up to adopt Frigg, Katz said. Frigg is living with the person who intends to adopt her, the executive director said.

Freya and Frigg, four-month-old sisters, were found in a garbage pile at 89th Avenue and G Street May 26. Freya's jaw was so badly broken, "you could see the bone," said Pali Boucher of Rocket Dog Rescue, who worked with Animal Services to rescue all three puppies.

Frigg, too, was mutilated, with a rear paw chopped off. On Monday, a third German Shepherd puppy, Chloe, was found in the same area with a broken jaw.

VCA Bay Area Veterinary Specialists of San Leandro operated on Chloe and Beacon Veterinary Specialists in Fremont operated on Freya, Katz said.

"Their jaws could not be repaired, but the veterinarians at both places told us (the puppies) have a very good prognosis. Even with a broken jawbone, they are eating," Katz said.

"It's a happy ending for all three dogs, but it will be a happier ending if we can bring the person responsible to justice," Katz said.

As the puppies recover, law enforcement and the district attorney are looking for the person responsible for their condition.

Speaking at a news conference at the Oakland Animal Shelter Friday, Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O'Malley said, "We will work with the Oakland Police Department to figure out who hurt these puppies and bring them to justice."

O'Malley said she's concerned because many people who abuse animals also commit violent crimes against humans.

O'Malley said, "Our fear is that whoever is hurting these dogs is also hurting people."

Joining O'Malley at the Friday news conference, Oakland police spokeswoman Johnna Watson said, "Our concern is that if they are doing this to puppies are they also doing this to human beings?"

Watson said the mutilation of the three puppies is one of the worst cases of animal abuse she's seen in her 26 years with the Oakland Police Department.

"We haven't seen this to this level," she said.Dozens marched across the Golden Gate Bridge Saturday to raise awareness for gun violence on June 2, National Gun Violence Awareness Day, and events are taking place all over the Bay Area in recognition.

Narkethia Griffin lost her son to gun violence and she said she's marching because she doesn't want any mother to feel the way that she feels, to "endure this pain."

Holding orange signs that says "WE CAN STOP GUN VIOLENCE," people trekked across the 8,981-foot bridge from Marin County as well as from San Francisco.

In Redwood City, Mothers Demand Action held a rally to honor the lives lost everyday from gun violence.

March across the Golden Gate Bridge and rally underway to end gun violence. #WearOrange #NationalGunViolenceAwarenessDay pic.twitter.com/CStzCjN8om  Christie Smith (@christies_nbc) June 2, 2018

The organization works towards gun sense legislation but Sheila Brar, the volunteer spokesperson for Peninsula Chapter of Moms Demand Action, says Saturday's rally is just to honor gun violence victims' lives.

"Ninety-six lives lost each day is 96 too many," Brar said in her bright orange t-shirt.

Wear Orange was inspired by friends of Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old Chicago student killed by gunfire, who decided to honor her life by wearing orange-the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves, organizers said.

Many teens were at the rally Saturday, inspired by the young people who became vocal about change after they survived a mass shooting at their Florida high school that killed 17 people.

"I think that just by having younger voices show up, we are able to show a lot of lawmakers that we are not going to back down and we are the future generation coming to vote," Mill Valley High School senior Zoe Wynn said.At least nine people have been wounded in shootings across the city of Chicago on Saturday.

The most recent shooting wounded a 22-year-old woman in the Homan Square neighborhood on the West Side. Authorities said she was outside in the 3500 block of West Grenshaw at around 10:30 p.m., when she heard three gunshots and then realized she had been hit. She was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital with a wound to her foot. Her condition stabilized.

The two men, ages 30 and 32, were shot in the Austin neighborhood on the West Side. About 9 p.m., the men were standing in front of a house when a red truck or SUV drove by and someone inside fired shots in the 4900 block of West Adams, Chicago Police said. Both were taken to local hospitals with gunshot wounds to their legs, officials said, where their conditions were stabilized.



A 31-year-old man was shot while walking in an alley in the 5000 block of West Gladys at approximately 8:15 p.m., police said. A person in a passing vehicle fired shots at him, striking him in the left wrist and left arm.

The man was taken to Loretto Hospital in stable condition.

Earlier Saturday night, three men approached a 26-year-old man and opened fire, striking him multiple times according to police. The man was taken to University of Chicago Hospital in serious condition.

Another shooting occurred in the 8300 block of South LaSalle at approximately 6:42 p.m., according to police. A 29-year-old woman was shot multiple times in the upper torso as she was leaving a residence in the area.

She was rushed to University of Chicago in serious condition, according to authorities.

Earlier in the day, two men were shot in the 350 block of South Ashland at approximately 3:45 p.m. According to police, the men were travelling southbound on Ashland in a vehicle when they were pinned in by two other vehicles.

Three men jumped out of the cars and opened fire, striking the men. A 31-year-old was shot in the lower leg, and is in stable condition at Stroger Hospital. The other victim, a 31-year-old man, suffered a graze wound to his ear, and is in stable condition at Stroger Hospital.

No one is in custody in the shooting.

At approximately 2:55 p.m., a 20-year-old man was shot in the chest while standing on a street corner in the 4900 block of West Ohio, police said. A person in a dark colored vehicle fired shots at the victim before fleeing the scene.

The man was taken to an area hospital in serious condition.Services began Sunday for Chicago Fire Department diver Juan Bucio who died Monday evening while searching for a man who fell in the Chicago River earlier this week.

Bucio was part of the CFD dive team that responded to search for a man who fell off a boat on the Chicago River. Bucio disappeared under the water on Memorial Day and was later pronounced dead at Stroger Hospital.

Visitation for the 15-year CFD veteran took place Sunday afternoon in the chapel of St. Rita of Cascia High School, 7740 S. Western Ave.

The Cook County Medical Examiners office confirmed Saturday that the recovered body was 29-year-old Alberto Lopez. He lived in the West Lawn neighborhood on the Southwest Side.

Lopezs body was the second recovered from the river on Friday; another man was found in the North Branch near Lincoln Park about 7:30 a.m.

Bucios funeral is scheduled to take place noon Monday, at St. Rita. The burial ceremony will follow at Mt. Auburn Cemetery, 4101 S. Oak Park Ave., in southwest suburban Stickney.

A decade after her father was killed in the line of duty, an Indiana teen was cheered on by his fellow officers as she graduated from high school this weekend.

Lauren Rich was just seven when her father, Master Trooper David Rich, was shot and killed alongside U.S. 24 near State Road 115 in Wabash County, Indiana in 2007. This weekend, Richs daughter graduated from SouthWood High School, and nearly 40 of her fathers fellow officers were in attendance at the ceremony:

Congratulations Lauren on your big accomplishment, state police said in a Facebook post. We promise we will never forget your familys sacrifice.

Master Trooper Detective Rich, who was driving home in an unmarked squad car on that fateful 2007 day, stopped to help a motorist. That driver, who was driving a vehicle that had been reported stolen, fired a single shotgun blast at Rich, striking him in the chest and killing him.

Rich served in the Indiana State Police for over 17 years, and was survived by his wife and three children.East Windsor police are searching for a person of interest after an assault on Saturday morning.

According to police, one female cut another female on the face and chest with what was described as a box cutter on North Road around 8:00 a.m. The victim was transported to the hospital for treatment of her injuries.

Officers identified 32-year-old Nefertiti Walker as a person of interest. They say she resides in the Broad Brook section of town, but has fled her residence and her place of employment.

The East Windsor Police Department says they are looking to speak with her about the assault.

She was last seen leaving the scene in a grey 2004 Mercedes E500 with Connecticut license plate AN46384 with an unknown man.

If you know where Walker may be, you're encouraged to contact police at (860) 292-8240.

Officers say this was not a random act of violence and the two people involved know each other.The Atlantic hurricane season was devastating for the United States in 2017. Damage from hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria cost the United States $267 billion.

But scientists are now working to find out: Is there a link between those superstorms and our warming oceans? Could this be the new normal?

Im concerned when hurricanes are used as the poster child for global warming, said Dr. Chris Landsea, who is the science and operations officer at the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Its very difficult to say how hurricanes are now versus 100 years ago. Were still challenged today in knowing how strong a hurricane is, even in 2018, said Landsea.

Landsea understands the climate is changing and the oceans are warming, but doesnt see a direct link to the frequency or intensity of storms.

Theres periods where its busy and quiet and busy and quiet, but no trend, said Landsea, Theres no statistical change over a 130-year period. Since 1970, the number of hurricanes globally is flat. I havent seen anything that suggests that the hurricane intensity is going to change dramatically. It looks like a pretty tiny change to how strong hurricanes will be. Its not zero, but its in the noise level. Its very small.

But many, including the United Nations Intergovernmental panel on climate change dont agree.

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, some of the most advanced research on the effects of global warming on extreme weather is being done at their department of earth, atmospheric and planetary sciences.

Youll find that in any scientific discipline, theres controversy. Its actually what drives the profession forward, said Dr. Kerry Emanual, an MIT professor, and is one of the worlds leading scientists studying hurricanes. He argues the influence of climate change is much more pronounced.

Frequency, we see nothing at all. And the best most honest answer is  we dont know, said Emanual. The intensity is a little bit different. Models are more unanimous about that. 30 years ago, a 210 mph hurricane would not have even been possible. Today its possible. It might be rare, but you have one where you didnt have one before. The category fours and fives seem to be increasing.

Its a troubling trend, but one that seems to be bolstered by recent research. Rapid intensification usually found in major hurricanes has likely increased in the Atlantic Ocean since 1970 and may be more common due to global warming.

One study shows a 70 mph increase in 24 hours happens only once a century. But by 2100, that same intensification could happen once every five to ten years.

This cap on wind speed is projected to keep going up so it will become possible to have more intense storms, said Emanuel. Some people have talked about coming up with category 6. We may need to do that.

Storms over the past five years have been continually breaking records around the glove, like Hyann in the Philippines and Patricia in Mexico.

Hurricane Irma, which battered South Florida, set a global record for the longest sustained category five winds.

Were all pretty confident that were going to see higher incidents of the rare high category events and were already arguably beginning to see that, said Emanuel.

But Dr. Landsea doesnt share that confidence.

It shows stronger hurricanes but how much of that is real and how much of that is technology? Thats a difficult question to answer, said Landsea.

Other recent studies show a trend for hurricanes to move slower, which along with the ability for warmer air to hold more moisture, it can lead to considerably more rain and flooding, similar to Harvey in Houston.

And when it comes to seawater, we can expect to see a higher risk from storm surges.

We have high confidence in an increased risk from storm surges if only because sea level is going up, thats for sure, said Emanuel.

And with many wanting to live or enjoy amenities on the coast, that increases the chances for heavy damage.

Theres a lot more stuff that can be destroyed if a hurricane comes ashore and the potential for a lot of people to get hurt or killed if they dont evacuate in time, said Landsea.

Scientists also fear what they call the Gray Swan, a now theoretically possible storm that is stronger than anything ever recorded  one that could decimate a coastal area.

Tampa is something were worried about because it has a large population. Its very low-lying and they havent had a really big storm since the 1920s. Were all worried about Tampa.In the heart of North Dallas Saturday, the traditional pomp and circumstance at Conrad High Schools graduation looked more like a convention of the United Nations.

Class valedictorian Albana Gllareva gave a portion of her speech in her native tongue, translated to say, "Watching my mother suffer and sacrifice so much for my family, I decided to do my best in school to provide a better future for my mother and family."

It's one of more than 50 languages spoken by the student body.

Gllareva, like another 60 or so of her classmates, is a refugee. She came to the United States at just five years old, when her family fled the war that claimed her father's life.

It's a story so many in the class relate to though they all come from different places and backgrounds.

Eh Kaw Thaw came to the U.S. in 2009 at just nine years old.

Her walk across the stage Saturday marked a first in her family. Neither of her parents had the same opportunity back home in Thailand.

"Ive accomplished something that my parents haven't done before. It's something my brothers can also do, you know. It's achievable, Thaw said.

Soon she'll head to Texas A&M Commerce to study social work to help others navigate a new language and culture just like she did.

Alex Laywell with the International Rescue Committee helped dozens of the graduates at some point as they learned English and figured out life in a country so different from their own. He said that their walk across the stage isn't just about the students' achievements. It's a sign of their parents' sacrifice.

"For so many of their parents, they didn't get the opportunity to even go to school. And so to watch their kids walk across the stage, it's so special to them. They've been through a lot and to see their kids moving forward in their education, that's what it's all about," Laywell said.

Recently adopted from the New Vocations program, Rush N Supreme is heading to a new home for his second career. He was donated by Kelly and Sharon Walker who raced him all over North America. This beautiful bay trotting gelding made over 50 trips to the winner's circle, rolling in over $350,000.

Its not often you get to keep your favourite racehorse through his entire racing career. Rushs story is worth telling, Sharon Walker said with passion.

According to Sharon, Rush N Supreme had a little bit of a hard time getting started in his harness racing career. Before he met his recent owner, trainer, and driver, Rush would always make breaks and it seemed as if drivers had a hard time keeping him flat. Rush was sold to the Amish, then was brought back to the races, where June DeRussel asked Kelly Walker to drive him in an amateur race. From there on out, Rush N Supreme and Kelly just clicked.

"Not that Rush never broke again, it just seemed Kelly could keep him steady," Sharon explained.

From there Rush N Supreme was in the hands of Sharon and Kelly Walker, and the fit for horse and owners seemed perfect. One of Kellys fondest memories with Rush was a race at Chester on November 3, 2012.

"We had sent him to Pennsylvania trainer Bobbie Baggitt and he was having a hard time finding drivers that could get along with Rush and not let him break. I watched the races from Michigan and because I knew my horse so well I knew the mistakes the pro drivers were making. After watching him break again and the trainer putting the same driver on him for next weeks race, I called Bobbie and said take him off Bobbie, Im coming out there to drive my horse. He ended up winning the race in 1:56.1 and paid $120.60 to win!"

Rush N Supreme was so good to both Kelly and Sharon over the years while being in the barn, and he was Kellys main mount in the amateur driving events.

Rush was by far my most favourite horse to work with and groom. He was always a gentleman, Sharon said. He would let me groom him in his stall without cross ties, he preferred to stand with his head toward the back wall in the corner of the stall. He would lick and bite the boards of the wall while I groomed him and would never move unless I asked him too. He also trusted me enough to let me ride him, what a treat.

Rush was always the one that we would let the kids pet, sit on, or feed treats too. As I said before, always a gentleman. Maybe that is why he and Kelly got along so well. There was a deep, mutual respect between the two of them and a shared a competitive spirit. A winning combination, added Sharon.

Rush N Supreme is heading to Iowa to meet his new owner Melanie. She wanted a horse that she could ride with her friends on trails and do trail obstacles and small jumps with. She fell in love with Rush to be her new horse, he is just awaiting a ride to Iowa in the next week, stated Winnie Nemeth, New Vocations Standardbred Director. Rush really already came used to a rider, as Sharon had ridden him in Florida, so it took a few rides to teach him some simple queues under saddle. We rode him a few times a week since his arrival in March to make sure he had a good and solid foundation. He loves to trot under saddle and is so fancy. We have loved transitioning him to his next career. A big thank you goes to The Walkers for sending him!"

Racehorse aftercare is so important to our amazing athletes; they give us their all week in and week out, and ask for nothing in return. The least horsemen can do is make sure they go to forever homes after their racing career is over, and New Vocations is one aftercare program that can help you do that! If you or a friend are looking for your next show, pleasure, riding, or trail horse, head over to newvocations.org and make your next horse an ex-racehorse.

(Jessica Otten, for Post Time with Mike and Mike)A Dallas woman shot and killed her husband Saturday for beating the family cat, police say.

Authorities say Mary Harrison has been arrested and jailed on a murder charge in the slaying of her husband Dexter Harrison. She's being held on $100,000 bond.



Harrison, 47, told police she shot her husband, Dexter Harrison, during an argument as he was beating their cat, according to the Dallas Police Department.

The shooting occured just before 7:00 a.m. in the 13200 block of Fall Manor Drive in Dallas, according to police. Dexter Harrison, 49, was transported to Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas, where he was pronounced dead.

In a statement Sunday, Dallas police say Harrison told officers that her husband had been beating the cat.

Neighbors say the family cat recently went missing, Mary Harrison had posted signs about it disappearing and the pet eventually returned.

Mary Harrison waived her Miranda rights while she was being interviewed by detectives and admitted to shooting her husband.With just three days until election night, the top two California gubernatorial candidates arent taking a moment for granted in trying to get out their messages (and attack their opponent) one more time.

From the campus of UC Davis, Democrat Gavin Newsom shot back against political ads that portray him as an absent governor. As Lt. Governor, I took on the National Rifle Association. Comprehensive background checks now on ammunition purchases, eliminated high capacity magazine clips, first relinquishment law in the United States to get guns out of hands of dangerous felons, Newsom told NBC in the Bay Area.

He also pointed to the legalization of marijuana, lowering the prison population and fighting to keep college tuition costs down as accomplishments during his tenure.

Newsom is in first place in the polls, but Republican John Cox is a close second.

Cox, who was in San Diego Saturday for a Republican Party Get-Out-The-Vote Kick-Off Event said that Newsom is more of the same.

Hes more taxes, more spending, more big government, more partisan politics. People are sick of that stuff, Cox said.

He also called Newsom an elitist.

I started at the bottom, Cox said. Im the son of a single mom who was a working class person. I had no father growing up I had to work my way through college. Gavin Newsom is an elitist. He was put in business by Gordon Getty. He was born on third base and thought he hit a triple. I think people are going to identify with my background the fact that I made something of myself.

Cox mentioned his leading role in repealing the gas tax and his efforts to get the sanctuary state bill repealed.

Some Democrats have criticized Newsom for propping up Cox as his main opponent, saying it will galvanize Republicans to go to the polls.

I think the opportunity to have a Democrat facing a Republican in the General, where we can line up the Democratic Party not just around the gubernatorial candidate but all the down-ballot candidates, particularly these congressional candidates, is an extraordinary opportunity for Democrats in this state at this critical juncture, Newsom said in response.

California has an open primary with the top two vote-getters continuing into a runoff in November. So if the polls hold it will likely be a Democrat versus Republican race in the fall.Beverly White, NBC4s veteran general assignment reporter, has been selected to receive the National Association of Black Journalists prestigious Chuck Stone Lifetime Achievement Award.

An accomplished journalist with nearly 40 years of experience, White joined NBC4 in 1992.

She has covered a variety of breaking local and national stories for NBC4, including the 1994 Northridge earthquake; the salon mass murders in Seal Beach; the theater killings in Aurora, Colorado; the death of music icon Prince in Minneapolis; and floods, wildfires and mudslides across Southern California, including the recent deadly disaster in Montecito.

In November, White was honored by the Los Angeles chapter of NABJ, and in February her work was recognized by the City of Los Angeles.

NABJs lifetime achievement award is awarded to a journalist with at least 15 years of experience and a track record of extraordinary contributions to the enrichment, understanding and advancement of black life and culture. It is named for Chuck Stone, late columnist for the Philadelphia Daily News and former Tuskegee Airman, who died in 2014."

By Beverly White: The Legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen Lives On

NABJ president Sarah Glover praised Whites career and commitment to journalism in a statement announcing the award.

"Beverly White is simply a legend, a broadcasting mainstay," said the NABJ president, who is social media editor for NBC-owned television stations. "For more than a quarter of a century, Beverly has been delivering strong news stories in the country's second-largest market. To say she has a powerful presence that resonates with her viewers would be an understatement."

Previously, White has been the recipient of the 2017 Leadership Award from Kappa Tau Alpha, the Journalism Honor Society at Cal State University, Northridge; the 2012 Distinguished Journalist Award from the Society of Professional Journalists; the 2008 California Legislative Black Caucus Leadership Award and the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Killeen Independent School District in Killeen, Texas.

By Beverly White: 1st African-American Female LAPD Captain Continues to Serve Community

Prior to joining NBC4, White was a reporter at WTVJ, an NBC affiliate in Miami, where she was on the 1992 Peabody Award-winning team that covered Hurricane Andrew, and earlier, she anchored the morning weekday newscast for WKRC-TV in Cincinnati. She began her career in her home state of Texas at KCEN-TV, an NBC affiliate in Temple/Waco, and KENS-TV in San Antonio.

White continues to share her time and talent with colleges, community and civic groups.

White holds a broadcast journalism degree from the University of Texas at Austin. She lives in Los Angeles and enjoys traveling with her husband, a fellow journalist.A group of six American and British wounded veterans will walk from Long Beach to Newport Beach Sunday on the second day of the Walking With The Wounded's Walk of America .

The 14-week, 1,000-mile walk began Saturday with the group walking from the Dockweiler Youth Center in Playa Del Rey to the Battleship Iowa, which is docked at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro.



The walk is an effort to raise awareness of issues veterans face and more discussion about mental health issues and a fundraiser for veterans charities in both the U.S. and United Kingdom, organizers said.

The walk's patrons are Prince Harry and Jill Biden, wife of former Vice President Joe Biden.

"The men and women who serve in our military -- along with their families -- are some of the strongest, most generous and most courageous people in our nation, and we are proud to help Walking With The Wounded raise awareness of their service, sacrifice and resilience," Biden said.

Walking With The Wounded, which organizes the walk, seeks to improve the employment opportunities for veterans who have been physically, mentally or socially disadvantaged by their service. It also provides support for homeless and incarcerated veterans.

The U.S. walkers are former Marine Corps Sgt. Larry Hinkle, former Air Force Master Sgt. Adele Loar and former Army National Guard Cpl. Frankie Perez.

The British participants are Jonny Burns, who served in the Royal Anglian Regiment, an infantry regiment of the British Army, Kev Carr, who served in the Royal Logistic Corps, and Kemsley Whittlesea, who is awaiting medical discharge from the British Army, where he served with the Royal Signals for 15 years.

Hinkle was deployed three times, first to the security detail for the USS Cole hours after it was bombed in the Gulf of Aiden in 2000.

During his second tour, Hinkle was part of the Amphibious Ready Group that provided immediate presence in the Pakistan/Afghanistan region following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Hinkle's final deployment was to Iraq in 2003, where his vehicle was hit when out on patrol, causing him to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Loar lost her right eye, sustained a shrapnel injury to her left eye and damage to her left shoulder when her vehicle was hit by a warhead in Iraq.

Perez was struck by a roadside bomb during a deployment to Iraq, suffering a traumatic brain injury. He spent the following 10 years also suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Burns served in Germany and Cyprus for eight years. He was medically discharged in 2016 due to a shoulder injury and mental health challenges.

Carr was discharged from the military 14 years ago due to a broken ankle and mental health issues.

Whittlesea sustained repeated double shoulder dislocations, requiring multiple surgeries.

The walk is set to conclude Sept. 6 in New York City.

This weekend marks National Gun Violence Awareness Weekend. On Saturday, hundreds of demonstrators gathered in South Florida to raise awareness and demand change on gun laws.

Family members of victims of recent gun violence were also in attendance to spread awareness. Their voices were heard in events held across the country and in Miami-Dade and Parkland.

This weekend has been designated as wear orange weekend in the U.S. to honor the victims of gun violence. Hundreds of people showed up to Pine Trails Park in Parkland, where music was played, pictures were painted and families came together to ask for change related to gun violence.

Im a mom. I have a two-year-old and a four-year-old and thats why Im doing this. One day, theyre going to go to school and I want to be able to say, when I drop my kids off at school, that theyre going to come home, said Jennifer Rosenberg, an activist.

Parents and loved ones of the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, like Lori Alhadeff, whose daughter Alyssa was killed during the shooting, are particularly driven to fight for the cause, which hits close to home.

Meanwhile, during the wear orange event in Miami, the mother of a Pulse Nightclub shooting victim is adamant that though more stringent gun laws would not necessarily be followed by perpetrators, action needs to be taken.

Right now, it is extremely easy to get a gun. Why are we making it so easy? said Maria Wright.

We support gun sense laws. We absolutely do not want to take away the second amendment rights. We dont want to take away peoples guns but we do want to end gun violence, said Jessica Rieckhoff, an activist.

Moms Demand Action created a questionnaire that politicians, both federal and state, can request, fill out and based on their answers, be granted what they call a Gun Sense Candidate seal.What to Know Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School's graduation is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Sunday at the BB&T Center in Sunrise.

The event will commemorate the four seniors from the graduating class who were killed in the Feb. 14 school shooting.

Family members will be able to accept the diplomas of the late senior students.

The senior class from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School gathered Sunday for an emotional graduation ceremony, as they honor four classmates who lost their lives in a February mass shooting.

Seniors Nicholas Dworet, Joaquin Oliver, Meadow Pollack and Carmen Schentrup were among the 17 people killed during the harrowing Feb. 14 massacre at the Florida school. Their family members accepted their diplomas on their behalf during the Sunday ceremony.

Emotions were high even before the 2 p.m. ceremony began. April Schentrup, Carmen's mother, said that graduation day is "too painful to celebrate" without her daughter, but added that she is proud of Carmen's friends and classmates for their accomplishments. "They've overcome so much. I know they will [continue] to make positive changes," April Schentrup wrote on Twitter Sunday morning.

Hunter Pollack, Meadow's brother, said graduation was "the day my sister has been waiting for."

"Graduation where she wouldve been getting her diploma and be on her way to attend college," Hunter Pollack wrote on Twitter Sunday morning. "This is a sad day, as I will be walking [the] stage to get her diploma for her."

The graduation ceremony was held at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, which has the capacity to hold about 20,000 people. But the Broward County School District kept the event private. Only invited guests were set to be admitted and the media has been barred from inside the arena.

Scenes from inside the arena began to circulate on social media before the ceremony had ended. Attendees posted tweets and videos after comedian and host of NBC's 'Tonight Show' Jimmy Fallon gave a commencement address, bringing humor to a bittersweet day.

The school's choir also performed "Shine," a song written by two MSD students in the days after the shooting took place.

"Today you are graduating from high school. You should be incredibly proud of yourselves," Fallon said, according to videos posted on social media. "That doesn't mean you should rest on your laurels  or your yannys. Some of you will grow up to hear laurel or yanny, but the most important thing is that neither of these things will matter by the end of summer. What will matter is that you  the class of 2018, will have graduated. You won't be classmates anymore, you will be adults who Facebook search each other at two in the morning for the next ten years."

The students, their families, and the teachers and the staff who make up the Parkland school community have endured and persisted. Classes resumed just weeks after the walls of the school's 1200 building were riddled with bullets that took the lives of 14 students and three staff members.

While students  some fearful, some emotionally fatigued  firmly carried on with their studies, many also became civically engaged with the clear goal to do whatever in their power to prevent school shootings such as the one that shook their own lives from happening again.

Some of the graduating teenagers carry a considerable weight on their conscience as they traverse the decisions they confront ahead of adulthood.

David Hogg, one of the leading figures in the youth-led gun reform movement who also graduates Sunday, is taking a year off before starting college to focus on activism.

"I feel like I kind of have a bigger purpose right now," Hogg said. "People go to college to change the world and I feel like our entire movement ... we're already doing that."A U.S. citizen was found shot to death in the capital Saturday as violence and social unrest continue to grip Nicaragua.

The body of Sixto Henry Vera was lying in a street beside two burned vehicles with a bullet wound to the head, the state forensic medicine institute said. Employees at the Managua bar owned by Vera, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said he left late Friday to help a friend who was being attacked.

U.S. Ambassador Laura Dogu offered condolences via Twitter on Saturday to "the family of a U.S. citizen who died," saying the death of a U.S. citizen is of "great concern" for the embassy.

Vera's death occurred at a tense time for Nicaragua. More than 110 people have been killed in the country since mid-April amid clashes between forces loyal to President Daniel Ortega and opposition groups demanding his removal.

Streets across the country are often deserted after dark as armed groups circulate in vehicles without license plates, shooting and robbing.

On Wednesday, more than a dozen people died in shootings that erupted around protests on Mothers' Day in Nicaragua. Gunmen firing into crowds sent thousands of demonstrators running for cover at the marches, which were led by mothers of victims who died in recent protests.

Civil society groups alleged the attackers were members of paramilitary groups loyal to Ortega. Government officials blamed the opposition groups who are seeking to oust Ortega.

The rise of criminal gangs has led residents in several cities to organize neighborhood watch groups with barricades. The Red Cross reported that two people manning barricades in the city of Masaya were fatally shot Saturday.

"I beg the people of my city, Masaya, to not go out onto the street and to protect themselves in their homes, the situation is very dangerous," Managua's auxiliary Roman Catholic bishop, Silvio Baez, said via Twitter.

Leading businessmen in Nicaragua have proposed moving up the presidential election that is now scheduled for 2021. Ortega has been president since 2007.Immigration advocates accused the U.S. government on Thursday of "effectively disappearing" hundreds of children in a complaint over the widespread separation of families crossing the southern border.

The groups filed a petition with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, which investigates alleged human rights abuses in North and South America.

Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced May 7 that the Justice Department would begin to prosecute every person accused of illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. Hundreds of families have been separated since then. An official from U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently told Congress that 638 adults had been referred for prosecution between May 6 and May 19, bringing with them 658 children.

By comparison, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which shelters unaccompanied immigrant children, said in April that it had approximately 700 cases since October in which the parents were believed to be in federal custody.

Immigration lawyers and advocates say parents are being held in jail without knowing where their children are.

Efren Olivares, a lawyer with the Texas Civil Rights Project, which filed the complaint, said the U.S. government's separating of families is "clearly in violation of international law."

"No developed democracy in the world separates children and parents just because they came into the country," he said.

The Women's Refugee Commission and the University of Texas School of Law's immigration clinic also joined the complaint.

In one case outlined in the complaint, Border Patrol agents in South Texas arrested a 40-year-old man from Guatemala with his 12-year-old son. The complaint says the man was placed in a detention cell while his son was kept outside. By the time the man was taken out of the cell, the boy was gone.

A lawyer working on the man's case called the government hotline for locating immigrant children in custody. According to the complaint, the boy's information was not in the system. The lawyer and the father don't know where he is.

Advocates say they hope the complaint will lead the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to ask the government for more information about how it's keeping track of families after separating them. The American Civil Liberties Union has also filed a federal lawsuit challenging family separation.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a statement that it is "committed to connecting these family members as quickly as possible after separation," and that it will work with the Department of Health and Human Services to "set up regular communication and removal coordination, if necessary."

Neither Health and Human Services nor Customs and Border Protection responded to requests for comment.What to Know Mayor Bill de Blasio says he will push to diversify the city's elite specialized high schools

He wants to eliminate the high-stakes admissions test and instead base admissions on grades and existing statewide testing

Critics have long complained that reliance on the tests leads to a lack of diversity at the schools

Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday he wants to eliminate the high-stakes admissions tests for New York City's elite high schools over three years.

De Blasio said the move will help increase diversity at the eight academically rigorous schools, including Stuyvesant High School and the Bronx High School of Science.

Instead of the test, which students take in the eighth grade, de Blasio wants to rate students based on their grades in seventh-grade English, math social studies and science, plus scores on statewide math and English exams.

Getting rid of the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test, or SHSAT, would require legislative approval. Right now, the test is the sole criteria for admission to the schools.

Middle- and upper-income families can spend thousands of dollars on tutoring for the exams.

Critics have long complained that the reliance on the test leads to a lack of diversity at the schools, which are overwhelmingly Asian and white. Only 10 percent of students at the elite schools are black or Latino, although they make up 70 percent of the city's overall student population, de Blasio said.

Getting rid of the admissions test is expected to make 44 percent of offers go to black and Latino students, de Blasio said. It would also raise the number of offers to girls to 62 percent, compared with 44 percent now. The number of offers to Bronx residents would quadruple, he said.

There are talented students all across the five boroughs, but for far too long our specialized high schools have failed to reflect the diversity of our city, de Blasio said. We cannot let this injustice continue. By giving a wider, more diverse pool of our best students an equal shot at admissions, we will make these schools stronger and our city fairer.



De Blasio said he will also reserve 20 percent of seats at each high school for low-income students, beginning in 2019. The process will take two years, he said.A Tesla that crashed while in Autopilot mode in Utah this month accelerated in the seconds before it smashed into a stopped firetruck, according to a police report obtained by The Associated Press. Two people were injured.

Data from the Model S electric vehicle show it picked up speed for 3.5 seconds before crashing into the firetruck in suburban Salt Lake City, the report said. The driver manually hit the brakes a fraction of a second before impact.

Police suggested that the car was following another vehicle and dropped its speed to 55 mph (89 kph) to match the leading vehicle. They say the leading vehicle then likely changed lanes and the Tesla automatically sped up to its preset speed of 60 mph (97 kph) without noticing the stopped cars ahead.

The police report, which was obtained Thursday through an open records request, provides detail about the vehicle's actions immediately before the May 11 crash and the driver's familiarity with its system.

The driver of the vehicle, Heather Lommatzsch, 29, told police she thought the vehicle's automatic emergency braking system would detect traffic and stop before the car hit another vehicle.

She said she owned the car for two years and used the semi-autonomous Autopilot feature on all kinds of roadways, including the Utah highway where she crashed, according to the report.

Lommatzsch said the car did not provide any audio or visual warnings before the crash. A witness told police she did not see signs the car illuminate its brake lights or swerve to avoid the truck ahead of it.

Lommatzsch did not return a voicemail message on Thursday. A Tesla spokeswoman, Keely Sulprizio, did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment.

The car company has said it repeatedly warns drivers to stay alert, keep their hands on the wheel and maintain control of their vehicle at all times while using the Autopilot system.

Police say car data show Lommatzsch did not touch the steering wheel for 80 seconds before the crash. She told police she was looking at her phone and comparing different routes to her destination.

She broke her foot in the crash and this week was charged with a misdemeanor traffic citation. Online court records do not show an attorney listed for her.

The driver of the firetruck told police he had injuries consistent with whiplash but did not go to a hospital.

Tesla's Autopilot system uses cameras, ultrasonic sensors and radar to sense the vehicle's surrounding environment and perform basic functions automatically.

Among those functions is automatic emergency braking, which the company says on its website is designed "to detect objects that the car may impact and applies the brakes accordingly." Tesla says the system is not designed to avoid a collision and warns drivers not to rely on it entirely.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has said it is investigating the May 11 crash.

Tesla's Autopilot has been the subject of previous scrutiny following other crashes involving the vehicles.

In March, a driver was killed when a Model X with Autopilot engaged hit a barrier while traveling at "freeway speed" in California. NHTSA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating that case.

This week, Tesla said Autopilot was not engaged when a Model S veered off a road and plunged into a pond outside San Francisco, killing the driver.

Earlier in May, the NTSB opened a probe into an accident in which a Model S caught fire after crashing into a wall at a high speed in Florida. Two 18-year-olds were trapped and died in the blaze. The agency has said it does not expect Autopilot to be a focus in that investigation.Bit Of A Legend N lived up to his name on Saturday, June 2 when he won the $200,000 Battle of Lake Erie at Northfield Park. The win was the nine-year-old's 44th and fastest win of his harness racing career.

As the gate pulled away from the 'Battle' field, race-favourite Rockin Ron and Missile J both tried for the lead, with Rockin Ron prevailing early and leading through fractions of :27, :54.4 and 1:21.4. Bit Of A Legend N pulled first over approaching the half and continued on the outside the remainder of the mile, eventually overtaking Rockin Ron in the stretch and stopping the timer at 1:49.4.

Bit Of A Legend N, by Bettors Delight out of the Sokys Atom mare Sokys Legend, is owned by Vonknoblauch Stable LLC of Hampton Bays, New York. He is trained by Peter Tritton and Jordan Stratton had the winning drive.

"He went a huge mile tonight," said Stratton. "I was pretty upset with him last week [finishing 5th in the $150,000 Camluck Classic at Western Fair], but Peter [Tritton] said he had him ready and boy was he right."

Saturday's win increases Bit Of A Legend N's bankroll to $2,241,131. He returned $7.80 to win.

Trainer Brian Brown was all smiles Saturday night in the Northfield Park winners circle and with good reason. The 2017 Dan Patch Trainer of the Year did nothing less than harness every winner of the nights three $40,000 Ohio Sires Stakes (OHSS) for three-year-old pacing fillies. It was the second round of action in the four-leg series.

Its definitely a good night, Brown said. It seems that lately we were winning all the smaller races and missing in the big ones, so its definitely a good feeling to have a night like this.

Browns dominance began with the first OHSS division, when Prsntpretynperfect battled on the outside of undefeated stablemate Queen Me Again to prevail in the final yards by a quarter length in a career best 1:52.4. Sweetnfamous was third for Ronnie Wrenn, Jr.

The daughter of Big Bad John took the overland route to notch her seventh career win in nine starts for owners Jenny Brown, Richard Lombardo and Marlene Taylor.

She went a really big trip tonight and Brian [Brown] told me he had a lot of confidence in her after her strong qualifier, said winning driver Jordan Stratton.

Bred by Carl Howard, Prsntpretynperfect upped her career earnings to $145,166.

In the second OHSS division, Smiley Dragon exploded in the backstretch, making a three-wide move for driver Ronnie Wrenn, Jr. that saw her draw off to win in 1:52.4 by three-and-a-half lengths. Even-money favourite Bad Girls Rule was second, with 9-5 Pet Walker nabbing show honors.

Smiley Dragon, a Dragon Again filly, was bred and is owned by Emerald Highlands Farm. Unraced at two, she notched her first win in four tries with the OHSS score and now has $26,780 in her lifetime bank account.

McPansy, a daughter of McArdle, gave Brown his third winner in the final OHSS division, stopping the timer in 1:52.3. The 9-5 favourite was out from the half to the wire for driver Chris Page progressing to her third win in four starts. Bred and owned by Emerald Highlands Farm, McPansy pushed her career earnings to $44,500.

Believe In Waco, at 7-5, was second for Aaron Merriman one-and-three-quarter lengths behind the winner, while 24-1 longshot Princess Rougarou was third with Ryan Stahl aboard.

Second leg action of the Ohio Sires Stakes continue for three-year-olds on June 9 at Scioto Downs and June 11 at Northfield Park.

(With files from Northfield Park and the Ohio Sires Stakes)UPDATE: Police recovered the woman's body Sunday. New details here.

The search for a woman who fell into the Pennypack Creek in Philadelphia Saturday evening continued into Sunday.

The 30-year-old woman's boyfriend told police they were taking pictures in a storm drain around 6:15 p.m. Saturday near Sandyford and Ryan avenues when the water swept her away. A flash flood warning was in place at the time.

Kayla Pratt, who lives nearby, told NBC10 she heard the woman's boyfriend screaming.

"He was like, 'Me and my girlfriend were sitting on a drain. I can't find her. She got washed away,'" Pratt said.

The creek was at least 10-feet deep at the time.

"It's actually very dangerous because once the storm happens, the water will get really, really high," Richard Hurst, who also lives nearby, told NBC10.

A marine unit searched until about 9 p.m. Saturday and resumed the effort Sunday.

Warmer weather this weekend comes with an excessive heat warning for San Diegos deserts on Sunday and Monday, with temperatures well above 100 degrees expected.

Temperatures along the coast will be in the mid-70s while the inland valleys will be in the mid-80s Sunday.

Were going to warm up significantly Sunday to Monday, NBC 7 weathercaster Liberty Zabala said Saturday morning. Its going to be ticking up a bit at the coast because were going to be still protected by the marine layer.

She said temperatures would go back down in the middle of next week and heat up again next weekend.

The deserts, you really need to pay attention, because youre starting off with that triple-digit heat, jumping significantly to dangerous heat, Zabala said.

Highs in the deserts Sunday and Monday are expected to be 107 and 109.

Sunblock, water and shades will be your best friends, especially if you go head out to the fair, Zabala added.

The excessive heat warning will be in effect from 11 a.m. Sunday to 8 p.m. Monday.The California Supreme Court has ruled that Facebook and other social media companies must turn over user content that is public to criminal defendants.

The court on Thursday kicked the specific case back to the trial court to decide whether information requested by the defendants was open to the public - and, therefore, information that companies must provide.

Attorneys for the social media companies had argued that federal privacy law prevents the release of any user content and that the defendants had other ways to get the material.

At issue were requests by a defendant accused in a San Francisco slaying who wants videos and other content posted to Facebook and Instagram by the victim and a witness. The defendant, Lee Sullivan, and a co-defendant, Derrick Hunter, also sought information from Twitter.

Prosecutors charged the two men with murder in an alleged gang-related drive-by-shooting in 2013. Sullivan said the witness was his former girlfriend, and her social media posts would show she was jealous and angry because Sullivan was involved with other women.

The defendants say their constitutional right to a fair trial entitles them to the social media records to prepare their case. Attorneys for the companies say a federal privacy law prevents the release of user content, and the defendants have other ways to get the material.

They could ask the witness for her social media content and get the victim's information from prosecutors, who obtained a search warrant for his Facebook and Instagram accounts and are required to turn over any exculpatory evidence to the defense, the company's attorneys, Eric Miller and James Snell, wrote in a brief to the California Supreme Court.

Sullivan's attorneys have said they could not locate the witness to serve her with a subpoena. Both defendants also say access only to records that support the prosecution's theory of the case does not allow them to mount a complete defense, according to a 2015 appeals court ruling.

That ruling sided with the social media companies and rejected Sullivan and Hunter's requests for information.

"Criminal defendants are looking for a one-stop-shop, a fast lane to get the materials that social media sites might have," said Eric Goldman, co-director of the High Tech Law Institute at Santa Clara University School of Law.

A decision by the California Supreme Court that overturns the appeals court ruling and sides with the defendants "could substantially change companies' practices," Goldman said.

Google in a brief filed in the case warned that loosening the rules around releasing information would undermine users' confidence in the privacy of their communications and "greatly increase" its burden from requests to disclose user information.

San Francisco's public defender's office countered in its own brief that prosecutors are increasingly offering social media records as evidence and "defendants have a parallel need for these records to defend against charges."A former furniture store went up in flames Saturday in Northborough, Massachusetts.

The 4-alarm fire broke out at 40 West Main Street, sending huge plumes of smoke over downtown Northborough.

Firefighters managed to contain the fire before it spread to nearby businesses on either side of the building, but they faced challenges, including staffing levels and the weather.

The heat played a big role," Northborough Fire Chief David Parenti said. "Our on-duty staffing is five, so our initial companies in were an engine and our tower...with heavy fire showing, thats a lot of work for five guys.

One firefighter was taken to the hospital for heat-related issues but he is expected to be OK.

The building had been vacant for years but it had been a local landmark in the center of town at one point.

I used to buy all my furniture from R and T so theres a lot of memories, Susan Bessom said.

Long-time residents say the old building had become an eyesore and that it looked like it was ready to cave in even before Saturdays fire.

"Its just dilapidated. They still had a lot of things were remaining inside the store. Its for the best to clean up the center of town, Christine Moscatelli said.

Northborough residents still say it's bittersweet because so many people remember the old days when it was a thriving business in town for decades.

So as being a native I have many, many fond memories going in the store, it was a beautiful gift shop. My father worked there part-time back in the day. They had wonderful Christmas Eve parties, just a lot of memories, Moscatelli said.

Investigators were on the scene late Saturday night trying to figure out how this fire started. The fire chief says its too early to tell if it may be suspicious.A new marina is under construction on the Lake Champlain waterfront in Vermont's largest city.

Work began this week on the privately owned Burlington marina that is designed to boost access to the city by boat, a growing driver of summer tourism.

Developer Jack Wallace of the Burlington Harbor Marina says the project is expected to be ready for the 2019 boating season.

In addition to 160 slips to store boats, the marina will also have pump-out facilities and a fuel dock.

The construction will mean the temporary shutdown of the popular fishing pier on the Burlington waterfront, which has long been a destination for walkers, anglers, and those looking to relax by the lake.

The new marina is going to reserve 40 percent of its slips for short-term visitors.A motorcyclist from Barre, Vermont, was killed after he lost control on the ramp from Interstate 93 southbound to Interstate 95 southbound in Woburn Saturday afternoon.

Police said Arthur J. Healey Jr., 75, was driving his 2017 Harley-Davidson Tri-Glide at 1:01 p.m. when he lost control of the three-wheeler. The vehicle left the highway and crashed, according to police.

Healey was taken to Lahey Clinic in Burlington with serious injuries. He later died from those injuries, according to a police news release.

Police closed the ramp during the accident investigation. The ramp was reopened at 2:37 p.m.

The accident remains under investigation by state police.The 16th annual gem, jewelry and mineral show will be held June 9 from 9 am. to 4 p.m. in Kent.

The rain or shine event will be held the grounds of the Connecticut Antique Machinery Association, just north of the towns center.New Delhi: Advanced technologies like AI will spawn new jobs and fears around job losses are misplaced, IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has said, while admitting that India Inc needs to play a larger role in the efforts to upskill people.

"Remember, technology by its very nature requires skilling and I see potential for digital skilling in a big way which, by itself, will create a lot of jobs," Prasad told PTI.

He said IT ministry is working with other departments like Niti Aayog on various aspects of these advanced technologies, and is also engaged with software body Nasscom on skill development initiatives.

"We are working with Nasscom...Also, I have already set up several committees to examine the whole matter.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be used for governance...for improvement. We are working quite closely with other departments like Niti Aayog," he explained.

Asked if the corporate India needed to put more efforts in this area, the minister said: "There is a scope for that. Nasscom is doing that but there is a need to do more".

He dismissed concerns that technology may displace jobs, but added that it is important for people to upskill to keep pace with changing requirements in the digital world.

"If a person is not up to date in new technology, then he may have a problem. You have to be tuned to the new technology," the minister said in a recent interview.

He noted that 39.8 lakh people are working directly in IT sector, while indirectly the sector employed about 1.3 crore people.

Additionally, 10 lakh people are involved in Common Service Centre (CSC) - which acts as access point for delivery of electronic governance services - while 4.5 lakh people are involved in mobile manufacturing activities in the country, he added.

"All these numbers are excluding the startup and entrepreneurship movement. When a new technology comes, new skilling comes in, it is going to bring more and more jobs, be very clear about this," he said.

The comments come amid reports of layoffs across various IT companies and apprehensions that increasing automation across sectors could make existing jobs redundant.

Nasscom had refuted such reports saying the IT industry continues to hire people on "net" basis although techies will have to reskill themselves to stay relevant.

IT companies, on their part, too had defended their position saying trimming of workforce is a part of annual performance reviews, a process that weeds out bottom performers or non-performers.

Nasscom had argued that tech startups, e-commerce, Digital India and digital payments are creating new opportunities for growth. As many as three million new jobs are expected to be created in the sector by 2025, as per industry estimates.

A poll conducted by EY recently found that while business leaders are optimistic about the impact of AI on job creation, talent crisis remains.

"AI is creating jobs, yet 80 per cent of respondents say there is a lack of talent to fill positions," EY had said.

The IT sector is also battling challenges in business environment and stricter work permit regime in countries like the US, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand.New Delhi: The Supreme Court has ordered a lawyer to deposit Rs 50 lakh as a condition to stop investigation against him over charges that he duped the victims of the 2004 school fire tragedy in Tamil Nadus Kumbakonam.

A bench headed by Justice Kurian Joseph directed advocate S Tamilarasan to deposit the money in the Madras High Court within three weeks.

The court said that this money shall be used to provide compensation to the family members of the children, who died in the incident.

A deadly blaze at Sri Krishna School in Kumbakonam had claimed the lives of 94 students on July 16, 2004. On direction from the court, the government had awarded compensation to family members of the victims.

But as many as 49 petitions were moved in the High Court in March this year wherein the families contended that Tamilarasan, who was their lawyer, illegally diverted the compensation money to bank accounts held by him or his relatives.

The contempt petitions demanded action against Tamilarasan for the fraud he had allegedly committed against his clients, apart from an order to refund the money.

Last month, the Madras High Court ordered a CB-CID probe against Tamilarasan. It asked the CB-CID to attach the bank accounts and properties of the advocate, his wife and other relatives, in whose accounts the money had been allegedly transferred, for recovering the compensation amount.

The High Court further directed the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu to take appropriate action against Tamilarasan and suspend him from practising as an advocate till such time.

The advocate moved an appeal before the Supreme Court and claimed he had committed no fraud, and that the alleged transferred amounts were only for professional fee.

During the recent hearing, the bench made it clear that it was only concerned about the compensation payable to the victims of the fire tragedy and if they received their monies, the matter could end.

It then directed Tamilarasan to deposit Rs 50 lakh as a stipulation to stay the CB-CID probe as well as the order of suspension of his practise as a lawyer.

The bench maintained that the probe will stop only after the advocate deposits Rs 50 lakh and in addition to this, Rs 1 lakh each for every further complaint of misappropriation.

Refusing to go into the merits of his case, the apex court asked Tamilarasan to deposit the money in the High Court, and make further submissions there when the matter is taken up on June 5.BSEB 12th Result 2018 | The Bihar Result 2018, Bihar Board Result 2018 has been declared by the Bihar School Examination Board BSEB on June 6 (today) at 4:15 pm, board officials have confirmed. The Bihar Board Class 12th results 2018, Bihar Result 2018, Bihar Class 12 Arts Result 2018, Bihar Class 12 Commerce Result 2018 and Bihar Class 12 Science Result 2018 has been published on its official website biharboard.ac.in. Earlier, the board was scheduled to announce the Bihar Board result for class 12 on June 7 but as the Dehli University admission will begin from June 7 so they have decided to release the result day before.

The BSEB Bihar School Examination Board conducted the BSEB Inter Examination for the academic year 2017-18 from February 6 and concluded on February 16. Practical examinations were held from 11th January to 25th January, 2018. If the site is not working properly then students can check their Bihar Intermediate Class 12 Result 2018 on these websites as well bihar.indiaresults.com or examresults.net, results.gov.in

How to check Bihar Result 2018, Bihar Board Result 2018

Step 1: Click on the official website biharboard.ac.in

Step 2: Click on the Bihar Intermediate Class 12 Results 2018, Bihar Board Result 2018, Bihar Board Class 12 Results 2018

Step 3: Enter your roll number

Step 4: Your BSEB Class 12 Intermediate results 2018 will appear

Step 5: Click on 'Save' to download the BSEB result 2018

Step 6: Students can take a print out for further reference

Nearly 12,07,986 students appeared for the Bihar Intermediate Class 12 exams at 1,384 centres across the state of Bihar this year.At a time when all rhetoric on climate change is failing, a great way to put this issue on centrestage is through dance. Surprising at may sound, but this is exactly what a dance troupe, Sapphire Creations, is doing with their most popular production  Ekonama, The Beginning at the End.

What is also unique about this production is that it is an eclectic blend of Chhau dance from Purulia with contemporary moves performed by the students of the dance company.

Conceptualized by Sudarshan Chakravorty and Paramita Saha, Ekonama is a world-class production that has brought together a group of local and international artists co-choreographed by Selcuk Gikdere from Turkey with Philip Tan from Singapore working on the music, Dinesh Poddar on light arrangements and Swarup Dutta on scenography. The collaboration aims at creating awareness on global warming and ecological imbalance across the world.

The production's international debut happened at the Seattle International Dance Festival following which it toured across several cities in India, including Kolkata, Mumbai, and Jaipur. It has also been featured at the UN climate change newsroom for raising awareness about environmental issues. Talking about the production, Chakrovorty said, "The concept of global warming was always on my mind."

"My dance company has been engaged in using dance as a vehicle of social consciousness. Through dance, we try to sensitize the young generation about various topics like politics, sexuality, society, consumerism, HIV as well as climate change," he added.

Chakravorty pointed out that it is easier to understand climate change if it's put forth in front of the public with a correct perspective. "People are so busy with their lives that they don't even have time for their families. Hence, they don't notice how the sea levels are rising or glaciers are melting," said Chakravorty, who is also the choreographer of Ekonama.

Therefore, he noted that it important to give context to people in terms of the challenges of the 2016 Paris agreement or how developing nations are being affected due to environmental issues. Once the public has some context about how climate change is an immediate threat, it is easier for them to understand.

Ekonama begins on a somber note, almost reminiscent of all the dystopia one gets to watch these days. However, this dance drama draws a more vivid and lasting image of a world drained of all its natural resources. It shows Earth personified as a woman in red, writhing in pain because of the destruction of the planet.

Ekonama begins with the story of a tribal community that lives in seclusion and depends on their masked gods for protection. On a fateful day, a catastrophic storm brought about by climate change hits the Earth, followed by bouts of hurricanes, floods and droughts. Forests are wiped out off Earth and as the sea level continues to rise, it brings about the end of humanity, including the tribal community, whose gods fail to protect them.

"There are no more lands to live in, humanity falls... and the gods also become hopeless. Their masks come off and we see their thin fragile bodies," said Chakravorty.

It is the dance of the masked and unmasked Chhau dancers that mime the rhythm of nature. As the show draws to an end, we see the woman in red (Mother Earth), the sole survivor of natural destruction, trying to give birth to new life.

"I feel that the emotional context of the production is quite strong and stirring," said Chakravorty, adding, "A pregnant woman crying and almost dying is bound to be visually and emotionally impactful.

Ekonama and the troupe are leading by example when it comes to climate change. "All the costumes for the production designed by Debaditya Das Burman were made out of recycled goods like discarded fabrics from industries," noted Chakravorty.

Burman's designs are very interesting and abstract and show that this tribal community can belong to any part of the world. Not just Burman, every other aspect of the dance drama  from music to choreography  is an amalgamation of contemporary and traditional, local and global.

The main dance style used in Ekonama is an 800-year-old tribal, martial art dance form known as Chhau dance from Purulia. The distinguishing feature of Chhau dance is the colorful masks that dancers wear during their performances. They perform to rhythmic folk songs based on mohuri, shehnai and dhol. However, in Ekonama, there is a fusion of traditional folk tunes and contemporary musical instruments. The acrobatic Chhau dance movements have been mellowed by more fluid routines of modern dance.

Although Ekonama has evolved as a world-class production, it started out as an initiative by a student of the Sapphire Creations for Microsoft Create to Inspire' 2015 fellowship.

It was performed across the country in school and college campuses in a bid to sensitize students about climate change. Even after it became a well-known production, the students of Sapphire Creations did not stop performing it in public spaces because they wanted to reach out to as many people as possible through their work.

"We often perform in public spaces like cafes, stores and open-air banquets. Our main aim is to reach out to the audience and connect with them. Not just by showing them through dance the issues our world is dealing with but also by making them feel about the issues, through our art," said Chakravorty.

While climate change is yet to become a point of conversation among young children, Chhau dance is another rare form of art that most people in India are oblivious to. When Chakravorty was asked why he chose such a rare traditional dance to talk about climate change, he replied, "We try and depict things that the audience will not see on television. Of course there are many reality-based dance shows nowadays, but beyond these shows, each dance form has its own history and journey."

"Alienation from one's cultural identity shouldn't happen, so we connect and remind people of important issues through dance forms that are culturally and historically Indian," he added.

#ClimateChangeArt is our series to discover how art, music, and literature have the potential of changing opinions and beliefs about climate change.Chandigarh: To commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has sought an assistance of Rs 2,145.31 crore from the Centre for undertaking various infrastructural projects in towns and cities associated with the first Sikh Guru.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the chief minister, who is also the chairman of the state-level organising committee, has suggested that a national organising committee, under the chairmanship of the prime minister, be constituted to oversee the celebrations of this historic event across the country.

The chief minister, who will be personally meeting the prime minister soon to discuss this issue, said that while a year-long calendar of events was being prepared for organising commemorative events across various states, the primary focus of the celebrations will be at places like Sultanpur Lodhi (Kapurthala), Dera Baba Nanak and Batala (Gurdaspur) that have had a deep association with the first Sikh Guru.

Singh said that it would be in fitness of things that, as a part of these celebrations, the towns of Sultanpur Lodhi, Dera Baba Nanak, Batala and Guruharsahai, where some of the relics of Guru Nanak Dev are kept, be taken up for special infrastructural development as towns of religious and historical importance.

He urged the prime minister that besides this, the Centre should also dedicate certain special projects in Punjab to commemorate the historic event.

In a detailed memorandum, submitted along with his letter, the chief minister, as per an official release here today, has sought Rs 875.03 crore for upgradation of infrastructure in the historic towns of Sultanpur Lodhi, Dera Baba Nanak, Guruharsahai and Batala.

The proposed works listed primarily pertain to upgradation of civic roads and bridges infrastructures in these towns. The chief minister has suggested that the funds could be released from the Ministries of Housing and Urban Affairs and Road Transport and Highways.

The chief minister has also sought a special grant of Rs 350 crore from the Ministry of Human Resource Development for setting up the Sri Guru Nanak Dev National Institute of Inter-Faith Studies at Amritsar.

The institute, for which the land will be made available by the state government, proposes to focus on the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev, besides providing a forum for the study and research on the first Sikh Guru and on comparative religions.

The chief minister has sought assistance of Rs 500 crore for setting up of a 500-bed Sri Guru Nanak Dev Medical College and Super-Specialty Hospital in Gurdaspur.

Pointing out that the border districts of Gurdaspur and Pathankot had inadequate health are facilities, the chief minister said the proposed state-of-the-art super-specialty hospital will have all the major super-specialisations.

A special grant of Rs 200 crore has also been sought through the Ministry of Culture for setting up a Heritage Village -- Pind Babe Nanak Da, which will depict the life and times of Guru Nanak.Panaji: Days after a 20-year-old woman was allegedly gang-raped on a South Goa beach, state BJP women's wing president Sulakshana Sawant has said the government cannot provide security to every individual.

The opposition Congress has criticised Sawant for her "disgusting" statement and said she should resign from her post on moral grounds.

"The government cannot provide security to every individual. We need to change the mentality of the people. An individual can act as a protector of the other," Sawant told a press conference here on Saturday, while responding to a question on the alleged gang-rape of the woman on a South Goa beach on May 25.

The 20-year-old victim was allegedly sexually assaulted by three men from Indore in front of her boyfriend, the police had said.

Sawant said there was an increase in the number of rape cases being reported to the police because more women were coming forward to report such crimes these days.

"The women believe that something may change if they take a step forward (and report such cases)," she added.

Sawant said the BJP women's wing would request the state tourism department to install CCTV cameras on the crime-prone beaches of Goa, which attract lakhs of travellers every year.

Meanwhile, the Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee (GPMCC) said it was the responsibility of the government to provide security to every individual.

"It is disgusting that Sawant is making such a statement. She should immediately resign on moral grounds," GPMCC chief Pratima Coutinho said, adding that it was the government's responsibility to provide security to every individual, especially women.Kozhikode (Kerala): The Indian Homeopathic Medical Association's Kerala unit has claimed to have the medicines to treat Nipah virus.

B Unnikrishnan, an association official, said homeopathy has the appropriate medicines for all types of fever and hence they should be allowed to treat the infected patients.

The association has requested the state Health Minister KK Shailaja to allow their professionals to examine the records of all those patients who have been tested positive for Nipah. But state Health Secretary Rajiv Sadanandan told the media on Sunday that he had no knowledge of this development.

"The homeopathy department is directly under me and so far no one has approached me or the department with this. We have no issues at all to look into it," said Sadanandan.

Sadanandan said that out of the 18 positive cases, four were infected with the virus even though they never had any direct contact with the patients.

"Due to the timely intervention of the health authorities, they have been able to contain the spread. But one unfortunate thing that has happened is circulation of false news on social media. There is no need to panic or fear. Things are under control," the secretary added.

The Kozhikode police have arrested six people for circulating false news on social media.

A second round of test results from Bhopal collected from fruit bats from the affected areas near here has turned out to be negative. Earlier results from another bat species were also negative.

In several churches on Sunday at Kozhikode, the priests served the serving of the Holy Mass to the hands of the people, instead of puting it directly into their mouths.

So far, 16 people have died and two are recovering. Some 2,000 people who came in contact with the infected patients are also being monitored.Mumbai: Former media executive Indrani Mukerjea, a key accused in the murder of her daughter Sheena Bora, was admitted to the JJ Hospital on Friday night after she complained of chest pain.

She was discharged from the hospital around 7:30pm after her test results came out normal, a senior doctor at the hospital said. She was taken back to the Byculla prison.

The 46-year-old, lodged in the Byculla women's jail since her arrest in 2015, was brought to the state-run medical facility at 11.30 pm yesterday with a "history of chest pain and discomfort", SD Nanandkar, JJ Hospital dean, had said earlier.

Mukerjea underwent a series of medical tests after she was admitted to the critical care unit (CCU) of the hospital, he said.

"Accordingly, a clinical evaluation was done. ECG (electrocardiogram) showed mild changes (in heart rhythm), while her chest X-ray report was normal.

"Her MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) test report of the neck was awaited. Her condition is not serious. Some tests related to cardiology are pending," Nanandkar had said.

This was the second time in two months that Mukerjea was admitted to the hospital.

In April, Mukerjea was admitted to the hospital in a "semi-conscious" condition.

She subsequently underwent a series of medical tests. The hospital authorities had then said she had an overdose of anti-depressants that were not prescribed to her.

In October 2015, a few months after her arrest in the case, she was rushed to the hospital in an unconscious state. It was then suspected that she had drug overdose.

Mukerjea is facing trial for allegedly killing her daughter Sheena Bora.

Bora (24) was killed and her body disposed of in a forest area in the neighbouring Raigad district in April 2012, according to the police.

Mukerjea, her former husband Sanjeev Khanna and driver Shyamvar Rai were arrested for the crime which came to light in August 2015.

Rai later turned an approver (prosecution witness) in the case.

Bora, Mukerjea's daughter from an earlier relationship, was killed over a financial dispute, the Central Bureau of Investigation, which is probing the case, said.

The agency later arrested Mukerjea's husband Peter Mukerjea, a former media baron, for allegedly being part of the murder conspiracy.

The high-profile case, which has attracted a lot of media attention, was initially handled by the Mumbai Police and later transferred to the CBI.Guwahati: Expressing concerns over misleading propaganda, former Assam chief minister and Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) leader Prafulla Kumar Mahanta has said the movement against the Citizenship Bill is not anti-Bengali or anti-Hindu, but a fight for justice.

Mahanta, who is one of the three signatories of Assam Accord having led the six-year-long anti-foreigners movement (1979-1985), said a section of people might be spreading propaganda and trying to mislead people.

Some Bengali-speaking people told me that the movement against the Citizenship Bill is turning out to be against the Bengalis. We would like to tell everyone that this is not a movement against Bengalis or Hindus, Mahanta said.

Will Saudi Arabias government ask all Indian Muslims to come to Arab? Will the Bangladesh government invite all Muslims to their country? And why will India let them go? asked Mahanta.

Demanding the detection, deletion and deportation of illegal migrants, he added that Assam should get constitutional safeguards as per the Assam Accord, and that the international border should be sealed.

Mahanta recalled the involvement of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Union minister Yashwant Sinha and other political personalities in the Assam agitation against illegal migrants.

If the Bill is passed, it will dismantle the Assam Accord. We strongly oppose it, he said.

He demanded that the state government make its stand clear like the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government, which took the decision to oppose the bill a day before the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) visited the state.

The Assam Andolan Sangrami Mancha (AASM), an association of Assam Agitation veterans, of which Mahanta and former AGP MP Kumar Dipak Das are members, announced their decision to take out a mass rally on June 8 to the district post office.

We will march together to the post office and send letters opposing the Citizenship Bill to the Prime Minister, the President, Vice-President, Home Minister and others. We will also be individually meeting ministers and MPs in New Delhi soon, said Mahanta.

Mahanta, also the former president of the All Assam Students Union, alleged that the government is playing vote bank politics.

People in Bangladesh are not even aware of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016. This was conveyed to me by a Supreme Court advocate from Bangladesh I recently met. The committee of minorities there have also opposed the Bill and criticised the decision of the Indian government. They said they dont want to go to India and feel secured in their country."

"There are about 29,000 puja pandals in Bangladesh and members of the Hindu community are helped in offering prayers, said Mahanta.

Meanwhile, protests continue throughout Brahmaputra Valley, with various organisations opposed to the bill coming together for indigenous rights.New Delhi: In a swift operation, the Indian Navy on Sunday rescued 38 Indians from Socotra island in Yemen where they were stranded for nearly 10 days after a severe cyclonic storm hit the area.

The Navy on Saturday had diverted its ship INS Sunayna from the Gulf of Aden to Socotra as part of the operation 'NISTAR' to rescue the Indians, Navy spokesperson Captain DK Sharma said.

He said the stranded Indians were rescued off the coast of Socotra early this morning and are now onboard INS Sunayna, adding all of them were safe. The ship is bringing the Indians back home.

"The operation, code-named 'NISTAR', was carried out on the morning of June 3 off the coast of Socotra. The evacuated Indians were embarked on board and immediately provided with medical care, food, water and telephone facilities to call and reassure their families at home," Sharma said.

He said the ship is proceeding towards Porbandar in Gujarat.

Cyclonic storm Mekenu had hit Socotra on May 24 leaving a trail of devastation. "Three Indian dhows (vessel) at Socotra suffered damages/sank alongside in the harbour and another Dhow, MSV Safina Al Khijar with 12 Indians onboard is reported to be missing," said the Navy spokesperson.

INS Sunayna was deployed for the humanitarian and disaster relief operation after the Navy received a distress call from the Directorate General of Shipping and the Indian Sailing Vessels Association.

The Navy had undertaken two aerial sorties on May 28 and 29 to search for the missing Indians.Guwahati: Around 200 people have been rendered homeless and shifted to other areas after the Brahmaputra broke through its banks in Laharighat circle of Assams Morigaon district.

More than half of Tulsibori Lower Primary School in the area collapsed into the river a few days ago, leaving 350 students in despair. Three more schools in the village, including a madrassa and mosque, are on the verge of collapse.

Some of the villagers, on observing signs of erosion in Tulsibori, moved the furniture out of the school. A part of the structure holding two classrooms partially submerged on Friday.

We dont have a future here. I thought I would study hard to become a successful man someday, said an 11-year old student of the school.

Villagers looked on as coconut trees along the 100-meter stretch of the river bank toppled one after the other on Friday.

We have lost our house and property to erosion many times. We seek temporary shelter at someones accommodation but no one would keep us for long. We are left with no place to go. We dont have money to buy land or build new homes, said an affected villager.

The Brahmaputra flows along the northern boundary of Morigaon district and erosion of the alluvial bank has been taking place for years. Several villages have been washed away and hundreds of families continue to live under the threat. A 150-year old temple at Kathoni village crumbled into the river waters last year.

The All Muslim Minority Students Union (AAMSU) alleged that authorities are using the Brahmaputra as their golden goose.

We have heard of and witnessed erosion in this place since the 80s. I recently read that Rs 126 crore has been released as erosion fund for this revenue village. The reality, though, is that since past 30 years there has been sub-standard construction work. Both the Brahmaputra Board and the state government have been using the river as the goose that lays golden eggs, said Akhtar Hussain, AAMSU Morigaon district committee president.

Hussain was referring to the recurring construction work undertaken by the authorities after every flooding.

Meanwhile, concerned locals are planning to shift the students of Tulsibori primary school to a makeshift classroom in a nearby area. Some people said that the bankline in Laharighat circle has shifted by about 1 kilometre and strong currents have been noticed in the river area that eroded.

State Water Resources Minister Keshab Mahanta visited Tulsibori area Sunday morning and re-evaluated erosion control measures. He instructed the district authorities to aid affected families and find temporary shelter for the school.

(With inputs from Manash Jyoti Baruah)Kolkata: A soldier who passed away in Kolkata on May 25 was not infected by Nipah virus, the Armys Eastern Command has said citing test reports.

Seenu Prasad was a native of Kerala, where more than 10 people have succumbed to the Nipah virus, and resumed duty at Fort William of the Eastern Command on May 13 after a month-long visit to his home state.

He was admitted at the Command Hospital with fever on May 20 and passed away on May 25.

On May 29, soldier Seenu Prasads body fluids was sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune which is the only agency in the country to certify whether it was a case of Nipah virus or not. We have received the test report and it came to know that he was not suffering from Nipah, Eastern Command spokesperson Wing Commander SS Birdi said. The report came negative and categorically mentioned that it was not a case of Nipah virus infection.

Meanwhile, the West Bengal government has set up an isolation ward for people being admitted with the mystery fever at the Infectious Disease Hospital in Beliaghata in Kolkata.

All officials at the Integrated Disease Surveillance Progamme (IDSP) of the state health department have been asked to be alert. All hospitals across the state have been asked to report any case of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) on daily basis.

NiV can be transmitted by infected pigs/fruit bats, through their saliva secretions, urine or faeces. It causes respiratory infection leading to fever, body ache, stiff neck, nausea, breathlessness and severe cough.New Delhi: An VIP Embraer aircraft carrying Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj to South Africa lost contact over Mauritius space for nearly 14 minutes on Saturday, according to the Airports Authority of India.

Indian Air Force Flight IFC31 carrying Sushma Swaraj, Minister of External Affairs, departed from Trivandrum at 1408 IST for Mauritius. Aircraft changed over from Indian airspace to Male ATC, which then established contact with the aircraft at 1644 IST. However, IFC 31 could not contact Mauritius ATC after entering Mauritius airspace... Later at 1658 IST, IFC 31 came in contact with Mauritius ATC and landed, AAI said in a press statement.

Since the Embraer-135 aircraft, carrying the minister, does not have a long range, it had stopovers at Thiruvananthapuram and Mauritius for refuelling.

The flight had left for Mauritius from Thiruvananthapuram at 2.08 pm. After it left the Indian airspace, it was handed over to the Male ATC which established contact with the flight at 4.44 pm IST.

Soon after it was handed over to the Mauritius ATC, the incident unfolded leading to panic. However, everyone heaved a sigh of relief when the aircraft came in contact with the ATC there at 4.58 pm, the AAI said.

The Indian Air Force plane was traced after the Mauritius Air Traffic Control activated INCERFA, the code word for a situation where uncertainty exists regarding the safety of an aircraft and its occupants.

An official conversant with the ATC issues over the Indian Ocean region told PTI, the problem in contacting the flight could have arisen due to weak radar coverage as flights have to rely on VHF communication, which have their own set of issues.

While such an alert has to be issued only after 30 minutes of losing contact with the ATC, in this case, it was generated earlier perhaps because the plane was carrying a VIP, AAI said.

The External Affairs Ministry and the Minister in question haven't said anything about the said incident as yet.

Swaraj is in South Africa to attend the BRICS and IBSA meets  the two major groups where India has been playing a major role. She will also meet the top leadership of the country.Shimla: Protests continued to rock the Himachal Pradesh capital on Saturday, as the densely populated Kusumpti area reeled under acute portable water shortage for the straight 14th day.

A water tanker driver deployed by the civic body got an epilepsy attack and ran over a 65-year-old woman on the busy Mall Road, who was rushed to the Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital where she was declared dead.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Praveer Thakur confirmed that the tanker driver suffered epilepsy attack due to which the woman, Uma Keprate, got hit.

Hundreds of residents blocked the road leading to the state secretariat in Kusumpti, raising slogans against the government and the Shimla Municipal Corporation, both ruled by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"Despite instructions by the High Court on supplying water in the city on a rotational basis, there is no water supply in this locality. The piped water has not been supplied for the past eight days. Three days ago, I got just three buckets of water for a family of five from a government tanker," housewife Sanjana Jindal told IANS.

Residents were out on the streets protesting late into the night.

"We are depending on bottled water for cooking and drinking. There is no water to clean utensils and wash clothes. I have not taken bath for almost a week now. Our toilets are stinking literally as we are refraining from flushing them. We just managed to collect two buckets of water from rooftop when it rained in Shimla on Friday evening," college student Nandita Chauhan said.

"We are prepared to live with very little water but we need that little water to sustain our daily chores and personal hygiene," she said, adding: "I think the government should promote dry toilets in Shimla in order to save millions of litres of water."

The problem of water shortage persisted in Pantha Ghatti, Chhota Shimla, Vikasnagar, Kangnadhar, New Shimla and Khalini localities.

A government statement said the civic body received 24.50 million litre per day water on Friday and it was distributed as per the timetable. It said 1.70 lakh litre water was supplied to different localities through tankers.

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Saturday rushed to New Delhi to brief the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on steps taken to restore water normalcy in Shimla.

"The PMO sought information and that is a routine one about the prevailing water crisis in Shimla. We have provided the information earlier also. Today, I have given the status report personally," Thakur told reporters in New Delhi.

Blaming the previous Congress government in the state, he said the Congress deliberately ignored the gravity of the water problem for five years.

"For the past 15 days, I am monitoring the water situation of Shimla on a daily basis and also through video conferencing if I am out of Shimla. We have improved the water supply but it still needs to be strengthened," he said, admitting that the water shortage this summer was worst in 10 years.

Officials blamed water shortage on the rising mercury and the drying up of natural water channels. Shimla has a population of nearly 200,000 that requires 42 MLD water.

Facing flak from the high court, which is monitoring the water situation on a day-to-day basis, the Municipal Corporation has disconnected the water connections of over 40 hotels for their failure to clear the pending arrears.

Issuing a slew of directives on Friday, it said all 62 keymen, who are responsible for supplying water in localities, should be kept under surveillance to ensure equitable distribution.

The court has listed the case for next hearing on June 11. It has also made it categorically clear that no individual request even to the VIPs, including the judges, would be entertained.The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education announced the West Bengal HS Result 2018, West Bengal Board Result 2018 for Class 12, WB 12th Result 2018 on June 08 (today) at 10 am. The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education released, WBCHSE Result 2018, WB HS Result 2018, on its official website wbbse.org, wbresults.nic.in. The West Bengal HS Result 2018, WB HS Result 2018 can be checked online at 10:30 am.

The West Bengal Board conducted Higher Secondary examination from 27th March -11th April. Students appeared for the examination can check their WBCHSE Result 2018, West Bengal HS Result 2018, WB HS Result 2018 on these websites as well examresults.net/wb,west-bengal.indiaresults.com, results.nic.in

How to West Bengal HS Result 2018:

Step 1: Click on the official website link wbbse.org, wbresults.nic.in

Step 2: Look for a tab - West Bengal Board Result 2018, WB 12th Result 2018, West Bengal HS Result 2018

Step 3: Click on the link which says WB Result 2018, West Bengal 12th Result 2018, West Bengal Higher Secondary Result 2018

Ste 4: Enter Roll Number

Step 5: Download the West Bengal Board Result 2018 and keep a printout for future reference

Students who are waiting with much anticipation can also check their West Bengal Higher Secondary 12 Result 2018, West Bengal Board Class 12 Result 2018 via SMS as well

Get Your WBCHSE Higher Secondary Result 2018, West Bengal Higher Secondary Result 2018 ON SMSMathura: The wife of Superintendent Police (city) Mukul Dwivedi, who was killed during clashes in Mathura on June 2, 2016, is upset at the treatment given by the Yogi Adityanath government to the slain officer.

"We got neither justice nor respect from the Yogi government," said Archana Dwivedi. She said BJP leaders had promised support when their government was not in power, but so far "nothing has come from them".

"Even Jawahar Bagh has not been named after my husband who sacrificed his life," Archana said.

At least 29 people, including Mukul Dwivedi and Farah police station officer Santosh Yadav, were killed in the clashes during a drive to evict illegal occupants of Jawahar Bagh in Mathura by activists, believed to be of Azad Bharat Vidhik Vaicharik on June 2, 2016.

The CBI is investigating the case following orders of the Allahabad High Court.

Uttar Pradesh Minister for Power Srikant Sharma admitted that the CBI investigation in the case was moving slowly but said that Jawahar Bagh would be renamed soon.PALMETTO  Port Manatee is actively enhancing its relationship with Argentina, its No. 1 source of imports, as an Argentine diplomat sees fortifying the U.S. Gulf Coast ports role in linking Latin Americas second-most-populous nation with burgeoning Central and Southwest Florida markets.





"We are looking to strengthen our trade relationship with Port Manatee, further benefiting from its favorable gateway position in Central Florida, Martin de Antueno, deputy consul of Argentina, said Thursday, as he led a morning-long seminar at the International Trade Hub at Port Manatee.





"As Argentina has opened its foreign trade policy over the past 2 1/2 years, we are now entering the world, and the world is welcoming us, said de Antueno, who, following the trade seminar, was hosted at a downtown Bradenton luncheon with sponsors including Manatee County and Manatee Chamber of Commerce. "We truly appreciate the welcome we are getting at Port Manatee.





Imports into Port Manatee from Argentina totaled $675 million in value during the fiscal year ended Sept. 30, 2017, making the South American country of 45 million people Port Manatees top supplier of inbound cargo.





Noting that aluminum and biodiesel fuels are among commodities shipped to Port Manatee from Argentina, Miami-based de Antueno said Florida receives about one-third of all of Argentinas imports into the United States, while significant opportunities remain not only for growing such northbound volumes but also for increasing exports from Florida to Argentina. In years past, Port Manatee exports to Argentina have included fertilizers.





"We look forward to working with interests from Argentina in building upon our two-way trade, said Vanessa Baugh, chairwoman of the Manatee County Port Authority. "We believe we offer unique opportunities for connecting the world with a region of more than 10 million residents and which hosts some 80 million visitors a year. As we increase these productive commercial ties, we augment Port Manatees already impressive positive impacts upon our regions socioeconomic wellbeing.





Port Manatee s executive director, Carlos Buqueras, commented, "Through the International Trade Hub at Port Manatee, we continue to proactively engage leaders of commerce from around the globe, together realizing the mutual benefits of expanded trade.





Over the past several months, Port Manatee and its trade hub also have hosted high-level representatives of such diverse nations as Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Germany, Guatemala, Honduras, Japan, Mexico, Peru, Poland and Spain.Famous for its cocoa and coffee, the Ivory Coast has drawn up an ambitious five-year plan for the cashew industry, seeking to modernise production in a sector where it is already the world's number-one exporter. "We have shown that we know how to produce the nuts -- now we have to demonstrate that we can sell them and above all process them," Adama Coulibaly of the national Cotton-Cashew Council told AFP.

From tiny harvests two decades ago, the West African country now holds the cashew crown, supplanting India as the biggest producer of the nut. Helped by price guarantees for farmers, its harvest doubled from 380,000 tonnes in 2013 to 711,000 tonnes in 2017, amounting to 22 percent of global output. This year's production of the nut -- known locally as "grey gold" -- is expected to attain 750,000 tonnes.

Curvy, rich in taste and filled with protein, the cashew is a familiar ingredient in salads, stir-fries and other meals. But it also features in a widening range of other food products, including cashew butter and cheese, and its oil has found uses in medicine, industrial resins and cosmetics.

Ivory Coast has a problem, though: the processing side of its cashew sector is puny -- it is currently equipped to handle only six percent of production. This is a classic dilemma for African countries, struggling to get out of the rut of dependence on primary sourcing."It's in food processing that the real added value lies... which can generate employment. Ivory Coast cannot allow itself to be merely an exporter of raw materials," Coulibaly told AFP.

In March, the World Bank announced funding of $1 billion (866 million euros) for development purposes in Ivory Coast, including $200 million set aside to support programmes to modernise the cashew sector. Coulibaly hopes that with finance on this scale, the country might in the coming five years attain "a 50 percent rate of product transformation and 80 percent within the next 10 years."

At present, the sector includes 250,000 producers grouped into a score of cooperatives and employs some 1.5 million people, directly or indirectly. The government plans to build agro-industrial zones at four population centres -- Bouake in the centre, Korhogo in the north, Bondoukou in the east and Seguela in the northwest.

Economist Yves Ouya said the poverty-mired north and centre of the country had to be beneficiaries of the boom. "This is extremely important for the government in its fight against endemic poverty in these zones," he said.

The cashew's extraordinary success sometimes leads to speculation -- by traders who buy nuts below the floor price fixed by the state and hope to sell it on at a profit -- and to smuggling to neighbouring countries. According to official estimates, between 20,000 and 50,000 tonnes of production is diverted this way each year. The authorities recently responded by ramping up the legal arsenal to deal with such offences, which also affect the cocoa industry.

Kouadio Djedri, a planter in his 60s at N'Zere village near the capital Yamoussoukro, likes to talk about how profitable the cashew business can be. "I started out growing cashew nuts 20 years ago, when the product sold for 50 CFA francs (0.07 euros/$0.08) per kilo," the farmer, wearing a cowboy hat and green boots, said. "From a harvest of 200 kilos -- two bags -- in my early days, this year I've grown 13 tonnes for sale at 500 CFA francs per kilo," he said. Djedri, who is also village chief, has a cashew plantation of 11 hectares (27 acres) and plans to expand over a further 13 hectares. "I tell young people to go into growing cashew nuts. It's a working business that has enabled me to send my children to school," he said.An innovative project at Laguardia Airport, in which flyers can commission a writer-in-residence to write a short story for them for the length of their flight, is about mid-way through, with interesting results.

After launching in April as part of the 2018 Airport Residency Program, "Landing Pages" has given life to more than 30 short stories of varying lengths and subjects for passengers flying out of Terminal A, which serves Alaska Airlines and JetBlue.

The premise is simple: Passengers can visit the "Landing Pages" kiosk and drop off their flight information including flight number and phone number or email.

Once their flight is airborne, writers-in-residence Gideon Jacobs and Lexie Smith will have the duration of the flight to produce a story, poem or illustration.

Passengers arrive at their destination with a story or illustration waiting for them on their phone or email and on the website www.LandingPages.nyc for the public to read as well.

The project is a collaboration between the Port Authority New York and New Jersey and the Queens Council on the Arts.

For a traveler flying May 3, on flight 2149, arriving at 1:31 pm, Jacobs wrote 374 words of a woman who steps out onto the porch and feigns a cigarette break with her husband, only to be whisked back to her girlhood upon beholding a plane in the sky.

Stories are printed and displayed in real time, and copies made available for visitors to take home as a free souvenir.

Though the writing workshop ends June 30, other projects planned for the 2018 Airport Residency Program include sonic installations, on-site portrait artists, and an exhibit of a seaplane to pay homage to the terminal's past as a marine air terminal for seaplanes.

Read the stories and poems here.A vehicle on a downhill drive has a peculiar feature. It moves at high-speed and takes several sharp U-turns. In the last six months, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leadership, too, has gone on a U-turn drive, apologising to one and all, and trying to make-up with rivals, including Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.

The latest is the reported offer made by the AAP leadership to the Congress to enter into some kind of an alliance in Delhi to take on the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

This offer comes close on the heels of former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit giving an interview to a Hindi daily saying politics was all about possibilities, and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal complementing Delhi Congress president Ajay Maken for his sons performance in the Board examinations.

Dikshits interview, much to the chagrin of Maken, came on the day he was launching a weeklong agitation against the AAP governments alleged scam in the purchase of close circuit television cameras (CCTVs). Delhi is, thus, being presented with a scenario where on the one hand Maken-led Delhi Congress has upped ante against the AAP government and on the other Kejriwal is going out of his way to build bridges.

AAP leaderships moves have to be looked at both from the micro and macro perspectives. At the national level, Kejriwal is seeking space in the proposed 2019 anti-BJP alliance. This has presented the Congress leadership with a tricky situation as Kejriwals case at the central level is being pushed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Not to forget that in West Bengal, Trinamool leadership has no love lost for the local Congress leadership.

In national politics, with the Left playing the role of the lead lieutenant of the Congress, Mamata would need an aide like Kejriwal to safeguard her space in the national opposition alliance.

On the other hand, at the local level in Delhi, the benefit of the AAP-Congress alliance would be limited to those leaders of the Congress who are opposed to Maken. Kejriwal has reportedly offered such seats to the Congress which could facilitate the entry of Makens rivals into the Lok Sabha in 2019.

The offer is startling as its not easy to forget that the rise of the AAP and Arvind Kejriwal has foundations in the anti-corruption campaign launched against the Congress regimes in Delhi and at the Centre. Having unseated Congress chief minister Sheila Dikshit from power in 2013, its truly ironic that Kejriwal is now reaching out to the same corrupt Congress leader for an alliance, that too in less than five years.

What brings such change of heart? The answer probably lies in the downslide in the vote share of the AAP in Delhi ever since its peak performance in the 2015 Assembly elections. Though some analysts, and a few Congress leaders pushing for the alliance, point towards the figures of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, conveniently forgetting that much water has flowed down the Yamuna since then.

Its true that the AAP and the Congress together have got about 47 percent votes in Delhi in last few polls, whereas the vote share of the BJP since the 1998 Assembly Sabha polls has swung between 32 percent and 36 percent. Its also true that the division of the votes between the non-BJP parties has helped the BJP score facile victories in Delhi during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the 2017 municipal elections.

But there is a difference between the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and 2017 municipal polls. In 2014, AAPs vote share was 32.9 percent and Congress was a meagre 15.1%. In 2017 municipal elections, the AAP vote share came down to 26.21%, whereas the Congress improved its performance to touch 21.21%.

Those opposed to the alliance within the Congress further point out that performance check should be done taking into account the 2015 Assembly elections, where the AAP got a massive share of 54.3%, whereas the Congress was down in the dumps with a single digit figure of mere 9.7%.

Smelling a chance for revival, the present Delhi Congress leadership has also been crying foul over the Election Commission deciding not to appeal against the High Court order restoring the membership of the 20 AAP MLAs disqualified for holding office of profit. For the Congress leaders, it was a chance denied at restoring their political credibility after the zero-seat performance in 2015.

Of the 20 Assembly seats which could have gone to polls, in the event of High Court not intervening, 14 are former Congress strongholds with dominant presence of Dalit and Muslim votes. In the 2015 elections, the two communities travelled lock, stock and barrel from the Congress to the AAP. But thereafter, there have been indications of the two communities returning to the Congress.

If this trend is to continue, the Congress certainly stands to gain nothing much from an alliance with the AAP at the micro-level, though it could provide some amount of political chloramine to the ruling party. And at macro level, outside Delhi, as the results of various state Assembly elections and by-elections have shown, the AAP is fast moving towards extinction, including in states like Punjab where it had some presence.

(The author is a senior journalist. Views are personal.)Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Congress on Sunday launched a major attack against the ruling BJP government accusing it of electoral misconduct by including the names of 60 lakh "fake voters" in the electoral roll. The opposition party urged the Election Commission (EC) to remove these names from the lists of 230 Assembly constituencies.

After meeting a Congress delegation, the Election Commission on Sunday ordered a probe into the allegations of large-scale discrepancies in the voters' list of Madhya Pradesh. The poll panel has formed two teams to probe the charges, which will submit a report by June 7.

The Congress delegation led by Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath met EC officials on Sunday and alleged that the BJP government in the state had included the names of 60 lakh fake voters in the electoral roll.

Some of these 60 lakh 'voters' have the same name and photograph and are enrolled in different booths while some even have same names and same booths.

The Congress released a list of these names on Sunday.

"We have given proof to the EC that the voters' list of Madhya Pradesh is fraudulent. Sixty lakh fake voters have been enlisted in it. We have conducted our own enquiry in 100 constituencies.

"We have given proof to the EC as regards how one voter has been enlisted in different constituencies with the same name, address and father's name. This cannot be any mistake, it has been done deliberately by the present Madhya Pradesh government," Nath told reporters after meeting the EC officials.

The Congress leaders also requested the EC for a special monitoring mechanism to remove all the "multiple" and "demographically similar" entries and urged the poll panel to inform all the national political parties on a weekly basis about the status of identification of such voters at least at the district level.

The EC teams will visit the Narela, Bhojpur, Seoni-Malwa and Hoshangabad assembly seats to ascertain how the discrepancies occurred. After reaching the state on Monday, the teams would also fix responsibility for multiple and fake entries, EC said.

Demanding strict action against the returning officers for their alleged involvement in coming up with such "fraudulent" electoral rolls, the Congress leaders also said the EC should not deploy them on poll duty in the future.

"The officers, who produce the second corrected list, should also give an affidavit or a certificate, along with the correct list," Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said.

The leaders also pointed out that a 40-per cent rise in the number of voters in the state, as against a 24-per cent rise in the population, was "inconceivable and incalculable" and requested the EC to look into the matter.

(With inputs from PTI)Bengaluru: Rubbishing reports that JD(S) supremo H D Deve Gowda had a say in ministry formation and portfolio allocation in the JDS-Congress cabinet, Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday he had only given the nod to finalising the portfolio list.

"I have come across media reports that Deve Gowda played a role in formation of the ministry and allocation of portfolios. This is far from the truth. He only gave the nod to finalising the portfolio list" he told reporters here.

Kumaraswamy also denied any standoff between H D Revanna (JDS) and D K Shivakumar (Congress) for getting the energy portfolio for their respective parties.

"There is also no truth in the reported standoff between Revanna and D K Shivakumar over the energy portfolio."

"Shri Venugopalji (Congress general secretary in-charge of Karnataka K C Venugopal) held talks with Deve Gowda to finalise the (portfolio) list. He had no role in any issue pertaining to ministry formation and allocation of portfolios," he said.

Shivakumar, who had kept Congress and JDS legislators together after the fractured mandate and prevented defections, is reportedly unhappy over the party high command not rewarding him with the Deputy Chief Minister's post.

He had also held the energy portfolio in the previous Congress government.

Kumaraswamy said it was true he had asked for the finance portfolio since he had huge responsibilities to fulfil as he had made promises to the people.

On setting up of the Cauvery Water Management Authority by the Centre, Kumaraswamy said the JDS-Congress government would decide on next course of action after consulting legal and engineering experts.

"We will take the next course of action after discussing the issue on setting up of CMA by the central government with legal and engineering experts," he said.

In the gazette notification, the Ministry of Water Resources said it has framed a scheme constituting the CMA and CWRC to give effect to the decision of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal as modified by the Supreme Court order.

On February 16, the Supreme Court had directed the Centre to form CMA within six weeks in a verdict that marginally increased Karnataka's share of Cauvery water, reduced the allocation for Tamil Nadu and sought to settle the protracted water dispute between the two southern states.

Replying to a query, Kumaraswamy said the government would start work towards preparing the new budget in three to four days, which would also include new schemes.

Asked about the fate of the schemes implemented by previous government, he said schemes benefiting the people would be continued.

"There is no question their withdrawal or discontinuance," he said.

"We are also working towards conducting a joint session," (of the assembly), he added.

Meanwhile JD(S) secretary general Danish Ali said the portfolios would be shared without any hassle.

"Congress and JD(S) will distribute portfolios to the aspirants without any hassle," he told PTI.

"We will take care. It is not a major problem for both of us," he said.Ahmedabad: With Lok Sabha elections just a year away, a flurry of messages on various social media platforms last month hinting that senior Gujarat BJP leader and Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel was engineering a revolt within the Gujarat BJP has caused a stir.

While Patel has categorically stated that an attempt was being made to damage his credibility, there is a growing feeling among political observers that it was the beginning of an exercise to cut Nitin Patel to size, as the high command was angered at the way he had acted after the Gujarat Assembly elections.

After speculations of his impending revolt started gaining momentum, Nitin Patel approached the media earlier this week and clarified that vested interests were out to tarnish his image and credibility by spreading rumours that he has been holding parleys with disgruntled BJP leaders and that close to 20 MLAs had assured their support to him.

For the past few days, posts about me have been making rounds on social media. These are being done by vested interests to tarnish my image and damage my credibility. I am appealing to all my supporters and party workers not to believe in these malicious rumours. At the same time, I am contemplating filing a criminal case with the police if these rumours continue, Nitin Patel told the media earlier this week.

Quick to retweet the Twitter post by Nitin Patel, state BJP president Jitu Vaghani said, Attempts are being made by people to spread false news about Nitinbhai Patel in the media. The BJP sees through such designs of those vested interests. Nitinbhai is a senior leader of the party and has been constantly striving to work for the welfare of the people in his capacity as the deputy chief minister. All the BJP MLAs are also steadfastly with the party. Even the national leadership of the BJP has been deliberately dragged into the matter. This is condemnable and the BJP will not tolerate such acts.

Then, within a few days, the BJP appointed an 11-member committee to oversee preparations for the 2019 general elections and named Nitin Patel prominently in that committee. The committee has been entrusted with the task of screening and finalising candidates for the 26 Lok Sabha seats of Gujarat. Quite clearly, the BJP appears keen to keep Nitin Patel in good humour, at least till the Lok Sabha elections are over.

There is no doubt that Nitin Patel did antagonise the party leadership to some extent earlier this year, when he refused to attend office after the Vijay Rupani government was sworn in after the Assembly election. Saurabh Patel was named finance minister, while Nitin Patel held that portfolio prior to the elections. A sulking Patel was then handed back the finance portfolio which was now with Saurabh Patel.

One theory being discussed in political circles is that the rumours may have been floated by a section of the Gujarat BJP adversarial to Nitin Patel.

After the controversy, Nitin Patel was forced to clarify on the so-called anti-party activities and hence it puts him at a disadvantage at the party organisation level. It also drastically erodes the Patidar strongmans stature within the BJP as the cadre would wonder whether Patel is now striving for the post of the chief minister even as the party gave in to all his demands after the election.

Senior journalist and political commentator Hari Desai, who has followed Gujarat and national politics for several decades, believes Nitin Patels future is not very bright in the BJP.

The BJP is known for not tolerating defiance in any form. Stalwarts of the Jan Sangh like Balraj Madhok were also thrown out in the past. Advanis case is more recent. I believe Nitin Patels tantrums were acceded to after the Assembly elections because the BJP itself was precariously placed. But in the long run, the BJP is not likely to tolerate him and sooner or later, he will be cut to size, Desai told News18.Manila: Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has told a UN human rights expert who said the country's judicial independence was under threat to 'go to hell', warning against interference in domestic affairs.

The Philippine Supreme Court voted last month to remove Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, whom Duterte had called an "enemy" for voting against controversial government proposals, citing violations in the way she was appointed.

Her dismissal is sending a chilling message to other supreme court judges and members of the judiciary, Diego Garcia-Sayan, special UN rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, said on Friday.

"Tell him not to interfere with the affairs of my country. He can go to hell," Duterte told a news conference late Saturday night, prior to leaving for an official visit to South Korea.

The outspoken Philippine leader is known for defying international pressure and his diatribes against critics.

In particular, he has railed against former U.S. President Barack Obama and UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings, Agnes Callamard, for criticising the bloody war on drugs, his signature public safety project.

Sereno, the first chief justice to be removed by her peers, had voted against several of the Duterte's proposals including the extension of martial rule in the volatile southern Philippines.Singapore: Singapore will bear some of the cost of the planned summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, its defence minister Ng Eng Hen said on Saturday, a day after Trump put the meeting back on agenda.

Kim's trip to Singapore, which would be the furthest he would have travelled as leader, poses logistical challenges that are likely to include using Soviet-era aircraft to carry him and his limousine, as well as dozens of security and other staff.

The Washington Post reported earlier that some unresolved logistical issues relating to the summit were who would pay the hotel bills of the leader of the cash-strapped country, whose economy has been squeezed by a series of UN and unilateral sanctions for its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

Singapore, a small but wealthy Southeast Asian city-state, is determined to successfully host the summit and is willing to foot at least some of the bill.

"Obviously yes, but it is a cost that we're willing to bear to play a small part in this historic meeting," Ng told reporters without elaborating, when asked if Singapore will be bearing the cost of the summit, which is scheduled for June 12.

Kim Chang Son, the de facto chief of staff for the North Korean government was seen this week at The Fullerton, a centrally located, five-star hotel that is a refurbished government building overlooking the Singapore river. Media reports said he was in Singapore to meet US officials to work out logistics for the summit.

The Fullerton was North Korea's lodging of choice, the Washington Post said. The presidential suite may set the government back by at least 8,000 Singapore dollars ($6,000) a night, it said.

The hotel declined to provide the room charge for the presidential suite.

There was no confirmation on the location for the meeting between Kim and Trump although there are a number of sites in Singapore that can guarantee security protection, including hotels that have experience hosting high-security events, local media and a Singapore government official said.

Among the potential venues mentioned as the site of the summit include the Shangri-la Hotel, which hosted Indian Prime Minister and defense chiefs from around the world this weekend, and the Capella hotel on the resort island of Sentosa.

The 348-square meter Shangri-la Suite in the Valley Wing of the Shangri-la was priced at S$10,000 for the June 12 night.Islamabad: Pakistan's Supreme Court on Saturday issued notices to 21 politicians and military officials, including deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif and former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Asad Durrani, in the infamous Asghar Khan poll rigging case.

The action was taken as a follow up to the 2012 decision of the Supreme Court in the Asghar case of 1996, which was based on a petition of former air chief Air Marshal Asghar Khan.

Khan had alleged that the army and ISI distributed millions of rupees among politicians ahead of the 1990 elections to bring them together to defeat the Pakistan Peoples' Party of former premier and slain leader Benazir Bhutto.

While deciding the case the court in 2012 had ordered the government to probe it and take action against those involved in giving and taking money.

After years of inaction, current Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar has taken notice of the delay and asked the government as well as Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to probe and fix the responsibility.

While hearing the implementation of 2012 verdict today in Lahore registry of the Supreme Court, the chief justice ordered that the notices should be issued to the civilians and military officials involved in it.

Attorney General Ashtar Ausaf also presented a Cabinet meeting report in which it ordered the FIA and NAB to implement the apex court's order.

Later, the court adjourned the hearing till June 6.

Apart from Durrani, former army chief Gen Mirza Aslam Beg is also accused in the scam to bribe politicians to form an alliance to defeat Bhutto who eventually lost the 1990 polls and Sharif was appointed as prime minister.Tokyo: Sayako had been trying to conceive a second child for two years when her boss at a Japanese daycare centre suggested she stop because she had missed her "turn".

Sayako, who spoke to AFP using a pseudonym, learned her boss had an unwritten policy that experts say is not uncommon in Japan: an informal "pregnancy rota" for employees.

"Why don't you take a break, you already have one," her boss said, despite knowing Sayako was so keen to get pregnant that she was seeing a fertility specialist.

"I was so shocked and stunned that I couldn't answer," the 35-year-old told AFP.

Sayako's boss told her that an older newly-wed at her workplace now had priority when it came to having children.

She quit the job and moved to another daycare centre, recently giving birth to her second child.

If she had stayed, "I think I'd have said 'I'm sorry'" instead of celebrating the birth of the baby.

The issue of "pregnancy rotas" hit the headlines earlier this year when a man wrote about his wife's experience getting pregnant "out of turn".

In a letter to the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper, he said he and his wife had apologised to her boss at a nursery.

"How dare you break the rules without asking?" the boss had said, the husband recounted.

The letter sparked a debate about the practice, which experts say is particularly prevalent in sectors that struggle to find and retain employees, like the daycare industry.

It represents an intersection of two of Japan's most pressing social issues: a shrinking population and the struggle women face balancing a career and family.

'A normal practice'

A declining birth rate has created labour shortages, but workplaces often demand long hours and overtime  a difficult prospect for female employees in a society that often still expects women to take the lead on housework and childcare.

This leaves many women feeling forced to quit their jobs to have children or forego a family to stay employed and get promoted.

"When you have an underlying idea that the ideal is a full-time housewife, people think women can just quit (if they get pregnant)," said Kanako Amano, a researcher at the NLI Research Institute.

"They think that if you want to cling to your job, then you should wait your turn."

"Pregnancy rotas" have become "a normal practice at workplaces that mostly employ young female workers," she told AFP.

Some women "don't realise it is unfair, and instead feel apologetic" for taking maternity leave.

Employers argue that the labour shortage makes it impossible to manage a business if employees take maternity leave whenever it suits their family.

But the result is a situation that only exacerbates Japan's shrinking population, Amano said.

"The essence of the 'pregnancy order system'  making couples wait turns has lowered Japan's birthrate," she argues.

Legal experts say that forcing employees to conceive on a rota is against the law, but it has become almost "inevitable" at workplaces like nurseries and hospitals, said Naoki Sakasai, a senior official at the Tokyo-based Research Institute of Early Childhood Care and Education.

"It is on workers' minds, whether it is written or not."

And while some employers frame the policy as "fair", women told AFP the system had the effect of pressuring newly-weds or older women to "hurry up" and get pregnant.

Discrimination

The issue is only one of many challenges for women in the workplace in Japan, which ranks bottom of the G7 countries on female representation in politics and business.

Amano said working mothers had few role models in managerial posts and women often found themselves discriminated against after having children.

Mayu, who also spoke to AFP using a pseudonym, said "many things disappointed" her after she returned to her job as a nurse after maternity leave.

"When I asked the boss to send me to a professional programme as a step towards a future promotion, her reaction was: 'You took maternity leave and worked shorter hours. How many more favours do you want'?"

"I have been told the same thing by three bosses over the past five years," she said.

The 42-year-old mother-of-three took advantage of a Japanese law that allows parents to work shorter hours, taking a commensurate paycut to do so.

She only worked one hour less a day, but nonetheless found the decision was "a trigger that ruined the plan I had for my career".

She feared that if she complained about what she considered discrimination, she might be penalised by her superiors or transferred to a remote clinic.

Amano said a broader cultural shift was needed to boost female participation in the workplace.

"There is a phrase 'messhi boukou' in Japanese that means... killing your private life to serve," she said.

"The workstyle or culture that presents 'messhi boukou' as a touching story is the root of all these evils."Halloween fun, for adults! The Lapeer Optimist Club held its annual Nightmare on Nepessing Halloween costume party fundraiser for adults Saturday evening under a tent in front of the...

Murder suspect found guilty LAPEER  Lydell Dukes, 40, of Detroit will be sentenced Nov. 22, and will likely spend the rest of his life in a Michigan prison...

Hands-on lesson in fire safety The Hadley Twp. Fire Dept. visited students at Murphy Elementary School on Pratt Road in Metamora Township on Monday to provide children instructions in fire...Seoul: Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said he plans to visit North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, Pyongyang's state media reported today, potentially becoming the first head of state to meet Kim inside the isolated country.

"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet... Kim Jong Un," Assad said, the North's state-run KCNA news agency reported, using the abbreviated version of the country's official name.

The announcement came as anticipation mounts for a historic nuclear summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump in Singapore on June 12, following a whirlwind round of diplomacy.

"The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political calibre and wise leadership of... Kim Jong Un," KCNA cited Assad as saying during a meeting with North Korean Ambassador Mun Jong Nam on Wednesday.

The Syrian president's office refused to comment on the report when contacted by AFP.

Pyongyang and Damascus have maintained warm ties for decades and reportedly shared a military relationship for some years, including during the ongoing Syrian civil war.

Suspicions over chemical weapons trade between Pyongyang and Damascus have been raised in the past by the UN and South Korea.

There were also widespread reports that North Korea helped Syria build a nuclear plant that was destroyed by Israeli bombing in 2007.

Both regimes have been the target of international isolation  Pyongyang over its banned nuclear programme and Damascus for atrocities committed during the seven-year civil war.

Since coming to power in 2011, Kim has not met another head of state in North Korea. He only made his first overseas trip as leader this year, travelling to China to meet President Xi Jinping, an ally of the reclusive regime.New Delhi: Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gave a self-deprecating account of his India trip at the annual Parliamentary Press Gallery Dinner saying it was a chance to mock everyone elses mistake while downplaying ones own. True to that spirit he presented a stinging take-down of his own trip to India, complete with a slideshow showing off his sundry glittering sherwanis at public appearances across the country. Panned by the critics, he went on to declare, of course mockingly, that he was never going on another trip ever again.

Trudeau familys weeklong trip across India in February dominated headlines in national and international media for their highly choreographed group photos - often in bright, colourful Indian outfits - outside various monuments, their hands pressed together in namastes.

Dressed in black sherwani, Trudeau, while entering the Canada House in New Delhi, enthralled the crowd with his Bhangra moves.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh poked fun at the prime minister for his attempt at bhangra dance while on the trip, then proceeded to lead an instruction of the proper way to perform the dance.

In a light-hearted manner, Mr Trudeau spoke about being received at the Delhi airport by Minister of State for Agriculture Gajendra Shekhawat. "Apparently you people don't get this... this is a very big deal," he said to a round of applause.

In Mumbai, Trudeau was photographed standing next to Shah Rukh Khan, dressed in a golden sherwani while the actor wore a black shirt and jacket. "Wow! One of us is seriously underdressed," Mr Trudeau remarked, looking at the photo. "How embarrassing for him!"

His constant costume changes came under heavy fire from the Washington Post.

His orchestrated dance moves and multiple costume changes in heavily embroidered kurtas and sherwanis make him look more like an actor on a movie set or a guest at a wedding than a politician who is here to talk business. Suddenly, all that charisma and cuteness seem constructed, manufactured and, above all, not serious, said Washington Post on Trudeaus India visit.

In an effort to balance out the criticism, Trudeau shared a photo with Infosys Chairman Salil Parekh, "a company that, for the record, announced new investments in Canada during the course of this trip. Mr Trudeau berated journalists: "But you guys didn't report on it because I was wearing a suit and tie. Boring!"

He also displayed his youngest son Hadriens disdain for protocol in India.

Hadrien hilariously face-planted on floor as the other Trudeaus gathered around to sign the guestbook at Mahatma Gandhi's memorial Rajghat in New Delhi. "At that point, he just totally gave up on the trip," laughed Mr Trudeau.

"That was India, ladies and gentlemen," concluded Mr Trudeau. "The trip to end all trips."

"Seriously, I told my team I'm not going anywhere ever again," he joked.Whistler (Canada): The United States faced unified opposition from the world's top economies to President Donald Trump's escalating, multi-front trade offensive at the end of high-level meetings Saturday soured by the imposition of tariffs.

G7 ministers urged US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who was at the event, to express their "unanimous concern and disappointments" to the White House over new US tariffs, Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau told reporters.

Morneau, speaking at the end of the Group of Seven ministerial meeting, said that the finance ministers and central bank governors were unanimously opposed at the harsh US steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire also expressed his anger as the meetings ended.

"I want to make it clear," Le Maire said, "that it is up to the US administration to make the right decisions to alleviate the situation and ease the difficulties."

He said that events next week "will depend on the decision the (US) administration is ready to take in the next few days and in the next few hours -- I'm not talking about weeks ahead," Le Maire said.

Outraged leaders from the world's major economies launched legal challenges Friday after announcing countermeasures to retaliate against harsh steel and aluminum tariffs that Trump allowed to take effect.

No joint final statement emerged from the G7 ministerial meeting, a sign of the strong discord as the world's major economies verged on open trade conflict.

The European Union and Canada are the largest US exporters of steel and aluminum respectively.

Trump's tariffs on America's largest foreign providers of the crucial metals upended the agenda for this normally convivial event for consensus-building among countries that account for about half of global GDP.

Finance ministers at this snow-capped mountain resort north of Vancouver, British Columbia instead spoke of exasperation and an abiding sense of betrayal by a long-time ally.

- Getting an earful from allies -

Chairing the meeting, host nation Canada's Finance Minister Bill Morneau allowed participants to register grievances with Mnuchin one at a time, according to a Canadian source.

Behind the closed doors Mnuchin listened but spoke little, saying instead the discussion could continue at next week's G7 summit in the French-speaking province of Quebec at which Trump is expected to participate, according to several sources briefed on the talks.

But the week's whirlwind global developments in trade suggested de-escalation was unlikely. In Washington on Friday, Trump mooted the possibility of scrapping the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement in favor of seeking bilateral agreements with Canada and Mexico.

G7 governments were also digesting Trump's threats to impose tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars in US auto imports on purported national security grounds.

In China, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross was due to conduct trade talks with Chinese officials even as Washington finalizes planned sanctions on Beijing -- including restrictions on Chinese investment in the United States, new export controls and 25 percent tariffs on about $50 billion in tech-sector goods.

The talks come despite Washington's apparent announcement last month of a truce with Beijing following talks in Washington last month.

China has threatened to hit back with tit-for-tat tariffs on tens of billions of dollars in US goods -- as have Canadian, EU and Mexican authorities.

They have targeted goods manufactured in key US political districts that could weaken Trump's hand after November's mid-term elections.

The final list of Chinese imports affected by US tariffs will be announced June 15 and imposed shortly thereafter, while the proposed investment restrictions and enhanced export controls will be announced by June 30, according to the White House.

"China's door for negotiation remains open," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Friday.Singapore: The United States is considering intensified naval patrols in the South China Sea in a bid to challenge China's growing militarisation of the waterway, actions that could further raise the stakes in one of the world's most volatile areas.

The Pentagon is weighing a more assertive programme of so-called freedom-of-navigation operations close to Chinese installations on disputed reefs, two US officials and Western and Asian diplomats close to discussions said.

The officials declined to say how close they were to finalising a decision.

Such moves could involve longer patrols, ones involving larger numbers of ships or operations involving closer surveillance of Chinese facilities in the area, which now include electronic jamming equipment and advanced military radars.

US officials are also pushing international allies and partners to increase their own naval deployments through the vital trade route as China strengthens its military capabilities on both the Paracel and Spratly islands, the diplomats said, even if they stopped short of directly challenging Chinese holdings.

"What we have seen in the last few weeks is just the start, significantly more is being planned," said one Western diplomat, referring to a freedom of navigation patrol late last month that used two US ships for the first time.

"There is a real sense more needs to be done."

The Pentagon does not comment on future operations but a spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Logan, said "we will continue to work with our friends, partners, and allies to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific".

A more assertive Pentagon approach already appears to have started. Reuters first reported the patrol last month in which two US Navy warships sailed near South China Sea islands claimed by China, even as President Donald Trump sought Chinese cooperation on North Korea.

While the operation had been planned months in advance, and similar operations have become routine, it is believed to be the first time where two US warships have been used for a freedom of navigation operation in the South China Sea.

The Pentagon also withdrew an invitation for Chinese forces to join large multi-country exercises off Hawaii later in the year.

Critics have said the patrols have little impact on Chinese behaviour and mask the lack of a broader strategy to deal with China's growing dominance of the area.

DO NOT PAY OFF

US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis warned in Singapore on Saturday that China's militarisation of the South China Sea was now a "reality" but that Beijing would face unspecified consequences.

Questioned during the Shangri-La Dialogue security conference over whether it was too late to stop China, Mattis said: "Eventually these (actions) do not pay off."

Last month, China's air force landed bombers on Woody Island in the disputed Paracel archipelago as part of a training exercise, triggering concern from Vietnam and the Philippines.

Satellite photographs taken on May 12 showed China appeared to have deployed truck-mounted surface-to-air missiles or anti-ship cruise missiles at Woody, while anti-ship cruise missiles and anti-air missiles were also placed on its largest bases in the Spratlys.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Singapore conference, He Lei, of the PLA's Academy of Military Sciences, said China had every right to continue to militarise its South China Sea holdings.

"It is China's sovereign and legal right for China to place our army and military weapons there. We see any other country that tries to make noise about this as interfering in our internal affairs," He said.

Regional military attaches say they are now bracing for China's next moves, which some fear could be the first deployment of jet fighters to the Spratlys or an attempt to enforce an Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) similar to one Beijing created off its eastern coast in 2013.

Vietnamese military officers say they are particularly concerned by the prospect of an ADIZ, saying it could threaten the integrity of Vietnamese airspace.

Lieutenant General Nguyen Duc Hai, head of the Vietnamese military's Institute of Strategic Studies, said that while Vietnam had long sought peaceful settlements to disputes, "all options are on the table from our side to safeguard our sovereignty and territory."

"The ADIZ establishment is one option we have thought of and also have plans to deal with."

Vietnam is the most active challengers to China's sweeping claims to much of the South China Sea, with Hanoi claiming the Paracels and the Spratlys in their entirety.

Malaysia and the Philippines hold some Spratlys features while Brunei claims waters straddled by China's so-called nine-dash line claim. Taiwan claims the same area as China.

Singapore-based security expert Tim Huxley said while increased pressure might slow China's militarisation efforts, they would be difficult to stop.

"China has created a new reality down there, and it is not going to be rolled back," Huxley told Reuters.

"They are not doing this to poke America or their neighbours in the eye but they are almost certainly doing this to serve their long-term strategic objectives, whether that is projecting their military power or securing energy supplies."Sorry!

This content is not available in your regionAmerica's poor becoming more destitute under Trump: UN expert

Philip Alston, the U.N.\'s special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, attends a news conference in Beijing, China.

Reuters, Geneva :

Poverty in the United States is extensive and deepening under the Trump administration whose policies seem aimed at removing the safety net from millions of poor people, while rewarding the rich, a U.N. human rights investigator has found.

Philip Alston, U.N. special rapporteur on extreme poverty, called on U.S. authorities to provide solid social protection and address underlying problems, rather than "punishing and imprisoning the poor".

In a report, Alston said that as welfare benefits and access to health insurance were being slashed, President Donald Trump's tax reform awarded "financial windfalls" to the mega-rich and large companies, further increasing inequality.

Extreme poverty in the United States, however, is not new. Alston said U.S. policies since President Lyndon Johnson's war on poverty in the 1960s have been "neglectful at best". "But the policies pursued over the past year seem deliberately designed to remove basic protections from the poorest, punish those who are not in employment and make even basic health care into a privilege to be earned rather than a right of citizenship," Alston said.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A U.S. official in Geneva, asked for comment, told Reuters: "The Trump Administration has made it a priority to provide economic opportunity for all Americans."

Almost 41 million people or 12.7 percent live in poverty, 18.5 million in extreme poverty, and children account for one in three poor, Alston said. The United States has the highest youth poverty rate among industrialized countries, he added.

However, the data from the U.S. Census Bureau he cited covers only the period through 2016, and he gave no comparative figures for before and after Trump came into office in January 2017.

Alston, a veteran U.N. rights expert and New York University law professor, will present his report to the United Nations Human Rights Council later this month.

It is based on a mission by the Australian in December to several U.S. states, including rural Alabama, a slum in downtown Los Angeles, California, and the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico.

Alston said that a tax overhaul that passed the Republican-controlled U.S. Congress in December will ensure the United States remains the most unequal society in the developed world.

Trump has said tax cuts will lead to more take-home pay for workers and has touted bonuses some workers received from their employers as evidence the law is working.

The tax code also includes a measure to support locally-directed efforts to fight unemployment and poverty.



MARION, N.Y. -- The family of the Wayne County mother found dead near a farm at which she worked is holding a memorial for her Sunday.

The memorial for Selena Hidalgo-Calderon will be held at St. Gregory Church in Marion at 2 p.m., according to a news release from the Workers' Center of Central New York.

Hidalgo-Calderon,18, went missing on May 16 and she was found dead May 23, according to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Her boyfriend admitted to deputies that he moved Hidalgo-Calderon's body from their home after she died, deputies said.

The memorial service is just one of the remembrance events being held. The family is holding a novenario, which includes nine days of remembrance prayers. That began Monday and ends on June 5, the release said.

Selena's mother and other family and friends created an altar with pictures of Selena alongside flowers, candles and rosaries.

Deputies are still searching for her 14-month-old son, Owen.Among the myriad, clarion voices speaking out on the subject of immigration in our country, relatively few are those of the immigrants themselves. Long Wharf Theatre and IRIS have joined forces to share these stories with The American Unicorn, a performance piece written by seven refugees whove settled in New Haven. It will be performed June 8 at 7 p.m. at Long Wharf.

This initiated with Long Wharf Theatre approaching us, said Ann OBrien, communications director at IRIS, a nonprofit refugee resettlement program in New Haven. A number of their employees have volunteered with us, and they had heard about this initiative around the nation of theaters working with different populations and not-for-profits to create completely unique theater that was not just inspired by, but acted out by the populations themselves.

The American Unicorn, which is sponsored by the International Association of New Haven as part of The Newcomers Project and Theatre Communications Group, consists of monologues and scenes written and performed by Azhar Ahmed (Sudan), Lames Ahmed (Sudan), Joseph Kazadi (Democratic Republic of the Congo), Mohamad Chaghlil (Syria), Yar Jan Ahmadzai (Afghanistan/Pakistan), Balquis Ahmadzai (Afghanistan/Pakistan), and Ruben Kwigwasa (South Africa). Long Wharf staff members Elizabeth Nearing and Aurelia Clunie, along with dramaturg Madeline Charne, helped shape and stage their stories.

Nearing, Long Wharfs community engagement manager, said her team has collaborated with IRIS on American Unicorn for a year and a half, when members of both Long Wharf and IRIS scouted similar projects across the country.

(Then) we started workshops in September and we had sort of open calls, said Nearing, and we talked about what a play could be and making something of their own. Then, in about January, we sat down with everyone who came to workshops who might be interested in taking the project further.

Will Kneerim, IRISs employment and education services director, described the project as an interesting opportunity in so many ways for our clients. He and OBrien did much of the heavy lifting during the initial phase of the endeavor. They identified who among their clients could logistically participate in the project. Such factors to consider, Kneerim said, included ones interest in writing and performing the final piece, scheduling, and ones proficiency in speaking English, among many others.

As you can imagine, life for so many of our clients is fraught with challenges, especially during the first year or two when people are paying rent, holding down sometimes multiple jobs, (and) dealing with schools and hospitals, said Kneerim. It takes time to lock in participants for a long program and project.

If everyone who was interested was able to participate we would have a group of 30 or 40. We were well aware of this challenge even before the project started. Which is: if youre hoping to meet with a large group once every two weeks for many months, it will be so dependent upon such things as child care, work schedules, transportation needs. ... Its hard to hold on to all the people youd like to hold on to.

Kneerim added that though he and OBrien were thoroughly involved in the administrative side of the project, they happily got out of their clients way as they crafted their play with the Long Wharf gang.

I can tell you that I, personally, have no idea of what American Unicorn will really be about, he said. And thats the way it should be. Let me preface this just by saying over the last couple of years theres been so much press about refugee resettlement, immigration in America, and, thanks to our location near New York, near Yale, weve received a lot of press. Most of it very positive; some of it negative. But it sometimes has been sort of an onus to many of our clients who feel they have to show up at different events and talk about their culture, and tell their stories. Thats often an opportunity that people welcome, but it can also be overwhelming, and many of our clients dont want to have their picture anywhere online, dont want to do anything public, because they have family members who can be put in danger by that. And theres sort of the burnout and fatigue that goes with being the hot commodity, a group of people that the media and the public at large are interested in.

So it was very clear, not only from the grant, but the approach that Elizabeth Nearing and the Long Wharf team took that they were going to make sure that it was the IRIS clients that decided what would happen. They would talk about whether the production they were making would be based on experiences they had here, or from their home countries, or a totally different kind of storytelling. And so they guided it and decided what the content would be, which is, from our perspective, exactly as it should be.

Nearing said that the plays format is a fable of scenes and monologues serving the theme of home.

So what we did over the course of our time is develop not only stories they want to tell, but also the structure through which they want to tell those stories. And through that we came up with the image of the unicorn. In the play, the opposite of the unicorn is the Medusa, said Nearing, referring to the monster in Greek mythology with a coif of living, venomous snakes. If the unicorn represents safety and order, Medusa provides the metaphor of paralyzing fear, as Nearing described it.

That provided a language to talk about the hardest stories, and to tap into the gravity of how important hope can be and how scary fear can be, she said. So the structure of the play goes from what home meant. Its about the journey to a new home and trying to find a new, American unicorn.

Joseph Kazadi, whose previous theatrical experience consists of acting in primary school back in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, said the staff members at IRIS and Long Wharf helped me by giving me real advice for (creating the piece) and assured me that I am not obliged to do that according to our identity.

According to Kneerim, the project benefits many people, including lifelong residents of the United States.

The simple answer is a word we use a lot around here: acculturation, he said. For our clients who are involved in this, they are learning things that, even if youve been around for a couple of years, they had no idea existed in America.

Among these possibilities are cultural and civic opportunities that connect refugees with their new communities and its different groups of people.

And I think other people participating, whether it be Long Wharf staff, or a couple of volunteers whove been involved, some people in the world of IRIS  volunteers, interns, staff members  get the same kind of benefit, Kneerim said. And what an advantage it is to know different members of the community who are involved in theater, in fundraising, in awareness and education, and bring our clients in that world.

So, I think its been advantageous for a lot of different people, but certainly for our clients who are involved. Their horizons have been broadened about whats possible in America, in Connecticut, in New Haven itself.

The performance will take place June 8 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 and are available at longwharf.org or by calling 203-787-4282.The marijuana industry has continued its explosive growth in 2018, and a new report has quantified just how explosive.

Sales of legal marijuana in the United States could hit $10 billion this year and skyrocket to $22 billion by 2022, according to the 2018 Marijuana Business Factbook released by Marijuana Business Daily. Thats big growth year-over-year, with last years figure for both recreational and medical marijuana hitting about $6.2 billion.

Here are some of the factors driving projections.

California Gold

Of course, California. The legal recreational marijuana market launched in the Golden State in January of this year. The massive market is expected to help drive nationwide sales of recreational marijuana alone from about $2.7 billion in 2017 to between $4 billion to $5 billion in 2018.

Related: Hey, Hollywood! It's Time to Get Real Portraying Marijuana Users on Screen

Nevada and Massachusetts

Nevada came out of the gates fast last year. After voters approved legal recreational cannabis sales in Nevada in November 2016, the state moved faster than any other in getting a recreational marijuana market in place. Sales launched in July 2017. The state already has sold more than $304 million in adult-use marijuana, with $41 million sold in March 2018 alone. Those numbers are above the original projections. Nevada already has raked in almost $49 million in marijuana taxes.

Waiting in the wings is Massachusetts, where legal adult-use marijuana sales are expected to launch in July.

And voters in Michigan are expected to consider legalization on this falls ballot. Theres also a wave building to legalize adult-use in New York, and New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy also supports legal adult-use marijuana there.

Continued Growth in Colorado, Washington

Voters in Colorado and Washington got the legal marijuana train rolling years ago, but the states continue to increase revenue. Sales in the two states - which the report said have finally come close to plateauing - will easily eclipse a combined $2 billion.

Related: These Stats on Cannabis Sales Will Shock You

Medical Marijuana

The market for medical marijuana also continues to grow. Large population states including Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland have expanded the conditions under which medical marijuana can be used. New Mexico and Arizona also have medical marijuana markets that continue to grow, according the report.

All this adds up to medical marijuana sales coming in at a projected $3.7 billion to $4.5 billion, up from between $3.1 billion to $3.7 billion in 2017. Where does all this lead? The projects from the Factbook call for the following total marijuana sales numbers over the next five years:

2019: $10.5 to $12.8 billion

2020: $12.1 to $14.9 billion

2021: $14.7 billion to $18.1 billion

2022: $18 billion to $22.1 billion

Thats enough to make an entrepreneur stand up and take notice. However, there are many uncertainties about marijuana, including what future states will legalize cannabis and what actions might be taken by the federal government on legal adult-use marijuana sales.

Follow dispensaries.com on Twitter to stay up to date on the latest cannabis news.

Related:

Will the Cannabis Industry Be the First True Gender Equalizer?

New Numbers Reveal the Marijuana Industry Boom Has Only Just Begun

How to Finance Your Cannabis Business Without Relying on Friends and Family



Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reservedThe Orange Street Liquor Shop in the East Rock section of New Haven is one of those small neighborhood businesses where youll be greeted by name when you walk in and likely hear a joke or a funny story.

Gary (Gus) Robinson and Tom Bowery have co-owned their shop for 26 1/2 years. But after growing weary of the expanding work hours resulting from changes in state laws, along with declining profits as many people patronize large liquor stores, these two guys decided they have had enough.

Theyre selling the business.

This is sad news for their many long-time regular customers, including me. For the past 20 years, I have stopped in to buy a bottle of wine or a six-pack and to get cheered up a little if Ive had a long day.

The store is not disappearing. Joseph (Pino) Ciccone, who operates P&Ms Orange Street Market next door, is preparing to buy the liquor shop business and undertake some long-deferred renovations. Within a few weeks, Robinson and Bowery will be gone, but Ciccone is also a friendly guy and I anticipate the people he hires will be too.

Ah, but Ill miss Robinsons banter. Bowery is pleasant but he often grouses about the governor rather than smiling and tossing out amusing anecdotes or comments, as Robinson always does.

The shop, at the corner of Orange and Cottage streets, is small and certainly not fancy. Robinson and Bowery dont care about fancy fixtures.

And they sure dont care about fancy dress. This was Robinsons attire last Wednesday afternoon when I stopped in to talk with him about his past, present and future: a T-shirt with a beer company logo, plaid shorts, a Boston Bruins cap and bright green running shoes.

The reason were getting out, honestly, is the business doesnt make the money it used to make, he said. Its declined over the last 10 years. It went down then from the recession and its never recovered. If I was making now what I did in the 90s, Id have no problem supporting my family.

Over the last decade, this is what he has seen from his customers: Theyre buying less of it and the less expensive stuff.

Robinson said the liquor industry has become a cutthroat business. He told me, We cant compete against all these large liquor stores, which have definitely grown. The big competition is taking over.

When I noted he cant match their lower prices, he said: Absolutely not! We dont have the volume. We dont have the room.

This is a store of convenience, he said. You cant expect warehouse prices in a little residential neighborhood with college (Yale) graduate students.

Here I must admit  forgive me, I have sinned  that while I often use that shop for a couple of items, I buy the bulk of my wine from the big guys on Dixwell Avenue in Hamden. There really is a price difference. Thats just the way it is.

In addition to coping with lower profits from declining sales, Robinson and Bowery felt compelled to open on Sundays because all the other liquor outlets threw open their doors on that seventh day, beginning in May 2012 when a new state law allowed it. And then in July 2015, another new state law permitted package stores to stay open until 10 p.m. The shop on Orange Street then began remaining open until 9 p.m. on most Mondays through Saturdays.

So now were working more hours than we ever worked and were making less, Robinson said. When we started, it was six days a week, til 8 oclock.

And then, to top it off, came the armed robber. He walked in on a Sunday afternoon, last Dec. 31. Yes, on New Years Eve.

Robinson had never been robbed before in all his years there, so at first, he didnt believe it was real.

I was here with a friend of mine, who was helping me work. I came out of the back room and saw a guy standing there with a black ski mask on. There was a customer standing in front of him, so at that point I didnt see the gun. But my friend behind the counter saw it and he was trying to motion to me.

Honestly, I thought it was a joke; one of my friends clowning around. I was waiting for him to pull the mask off, but he didnt. So I said: What is this, a (expletive) joke?

But then he stuck the gun into the neck of the customer and threw him on the ground. Then he pointed the gun at me and said: No! Its a (expletive) robbery!

I thought I was going to get shot in the chest. I thought I was going to die. I was thinking, Oh my God, hes going to shoot me right now! This is going to hurt! Whats it going to feel like?

But I told him, Nobodys going to mess with you. Just take what you want. I opened the register and he was out of here. I gave him what he wanted and nobody got hurt.

I asked Robinson what he did after that. I stayed open til 6, just like any other Sunday. Two days later, I came back and worked. No psychological evaluation, no three-weeks-later trauma.

But he admitted, I got upset when I told my wife and kids. (He has two teenage boys). We cried a little.

Nobody has been charged with the crime. Robinson told me he doesnt think about it much.

His more pressing problem is his health. I had back surgery three years ago and I might have to have another one. He gestured toward the boxes of wine nearby. They dont move by themselves.

Yes, but periodically during our relaxed interview  we even drank a beer together  a customer would walk in and Robinson lit up to banter with him or with her.

I havent had to work a day in my life! he told me. I love this place. I love the people. I thought I would die here. (I didnt bother pointing out that he almost did, prematurely.) Im definitely going to miss it. I care about this place. Its too bad it has to end. Its sad.

When I asked Robinson, who is 55, what he will do now for work, he replied, Thats a good question. Ill probably end up selling something. Its definitely a risk. I just feel I can probably go out and get a job that makes more money.

A customer overheard our conversation and said, Im sorry to hear that the business is declining. Robinson nodded and shrugged. He told me, Make sure you thank everybody for coming in. Thanks for everything.

Twenty-four hours later, I went back to the store, to see Bowery on one of his days running things. He told me he has actually worked there for 32 years because he was a part-timer there before he and Robinson bought the business.

Bowery said he and Robinson knew one another as kids growing up in West Haven. Bowery is now 52 and, like Robinson, he has two boys.

Its time to do it, thats all, he said of their decision to sell the business. Too many nights coming home late at night. Then working every other Sunday. I want to do something different. Ive got to work outside.

But Bowery added, I think its a great move for Pino. Hes younger than we are.

Ciccone told me he will run the liquor shop as is for a couple of months after he acquires it. I want to learn the business before I hand it off to other people to run. Ill shut it down maybe in August for a week for all the renovations.

Although he doesnt own the building, Ciccone said he is willing to do that work as an investment. He envisions taking the bars out of the windows and installing rich, antique type wood to give it a little old school flavor.

He will also change the name, to Enoteca Casanova. The first word means  a wine gathering spot. The second word is the name of the champion horse his wife rides.

When I popped back into the liquor shop later and informed Robinson of the pending new name, he gave me a funny look and noted the place has been called the Orange Street Liquor Shop for 42 years. Well, all things must change.

randall.beach@hearstmediact.comDawn Ennis body and gender identity finally are in sync.

On May 15, Dr. Jess Ting, a surgeon at the Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery in New York City, performed the radical, delicate gender-affirmation surgery on Ennis, a transgender woman, changing her genitals from male to female.

The surgery went particularly beautifully, Ting said. Theres a lot of aesthetics in these operations. Its not just make a vagina. We try to make it beautiful as well.

And last week Ennis said her recovery was going well. The pain is manageable, she said. Its mostly discomfort. I still cant sit upright. That makes it difficult to travel to New York from her West Hartford home for follow-up appointments.

Im used to being the caretaker, not the person who needs to be taken care of, said Ennis, who has three children.

But Rebecca Callaghan, of Waterbury, a transgender woman and Ennis friend, apparently wont get the same life-changing opportunity.

Connecticut has one surgeon who performs vaginoplasties, but Ennis and Callaghan said that they felt he was inappropriate and insensitive when they met with him. They said he told them he had taught himself how to turn a penis into a vagina.

Two out-of-state surgeons are enrolled in Connecticuts Medicaid program, Husky Health, in addition to Ting. But the hospitals where they have privileges either refuse to accept Husky patients or are negotiating with Connecticut over reimbursement rates.

Husky, also known as the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program, has told Callaghan she is no longer eligible to receive the surgery. On Thursday, Callaghan received a letter from Husky Health.

Signed by registered nurse Deborah Cruz, the letter stated, Thank you for participating in the voluntary HUSKY Health Program Intensive Care Management (ICM) program. At this time, we are closing your case at your request.

Callaghan said she did not request to be taken out of the Intensive Care Management program, in which she must be enrolled to receive gender-affirmation surgery.

We have been arguing and the last time I argued with them I told them  Dont call me back until you have your legal issues worked out and youre ready to proceed with my treatment, Callaghan said.

Callaghans argued she should be approved to have an out-of-state surgeon perform the gender-affirmation surgery that Ennis underwent.

Later that day she received an email from Mount Sinai. According to Zil Goldstein, program director of the transgender center, Were not currently scheduling new HUSKY patients as were in negotiations with HUSKY right now to be able to see their patients.

Its despicable and aggravating and typical of what I experienced for the last year, Ennis said of the Connecticut Medicaid program. Their first response is denial and delay.  Persistent is what it means to be trans. If youre not persistent, youll never make it.

David Dearborn, spokesman for the state Department of Social Services, when asked whether there would be any reason not to approve Ting for another patient, wrote in an email, We cant engage in media discussion about individual Medicaid enrollees. But, in general, Dr. Ting and Mount Sinai are enrolled in CMAP, so Connecticut Medicaid enrollees can be cared for by these providers under CMAP reimbursement.

That was before Callaghan received the email from Goldstein.

When informed about the letter sent to Callaghan, Dearborn wrote, We cant discuss individual patients in the news media. We recommend to patients that they stay in touch with the program with questions and concerns.

Hearst Connecticut Media is not naming the Connecticut surgeon or his hospital affiliation because he has no complaints filed against him. Callaghan has had a hearing with the state Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities about his treatment of her but has not filed a formal complaint, although a CHRO staff member said, Were working on getting that accomplished.

Ennis said that when she met with the doctor, He asked me the following questions: How long have you been wearing womens clothes? Thats the kind of question you would ask if you didnt think transgender women were women.  Im not wearing womens clothes, Im wearing my clothes.

He then asked Ennis, Are you straight or gay? In what world would it matter to this doctor whether Im straight or gay? she said. When Ennis said she was a straight woman who was attracted to men, she said he told her, Im never going to be able to make it so you can please a man. He said, I think youre going to have to change your sexual orientation. I said, Well, thats not an option for me.

Ennis said the meeting was so traumatic that it was another year before she would consider undergoing the surgery. She said she reported the doctor to the hospital, to the state Medicaid program and the state medical board. Both the hospital and state Medicaid officials said, We stand by our doctors, Ennis said.

In a written statement that she read at her CHRO hearing, Callaghan reported a similar interaction.

But despite Tings willingness to enroll in Connecticut Husky, which he called quite a laborious process, he has not gotten authorization to see Callaghan, who also has sent a complaint to Attorney General George Jepsen.

For Husky to approve an out-of-state surgeon, both the doctor and the hospital must be enrolled in Connecticuts Medicaid program. The two other enrolled surgeons who perform vaginoplasties are Dr. Sherman Leis of Bala Cynwyd, Pa., who is affiliated with two hospitals  Roxborough Memorial in Philadelphia and Lower Bucks in Bristol  and Dr. Kathy Rumer of Ardmore, Pa., who has privileges at Hahnemann University Hospita, Philadelphia.

However, Roxborough Memorial Hospital, while enrolled in Husky, is not accepting fees, according to information from the Connecticut Department of Social Services; Lower Bucks Hospital is not enrolled. Both are for-profit hospitals owned by Prime Healthcare, based in Ontario, Calif. A call to Prime Healthcare was not returned.

The hospitals where Dr. Leis does his surgeries refuse to participate in CMAP, Dearborn said via email. Consequently, we cannot approve a surgery with him unless the patient chooses to pay the hospital out of pocket (which is, of course, not tenable or possible, as Medicaid enrollees by eligibility definition have low financial resources).

Hahnemann was sold in January to American Academic Health System. Hahnemann spokesman Phil Ellingsworth Jr. wrote in an email, At this time, there is not a contract in place with the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program. Hahnemann has an ongoing effort to negotiate with as many existing providers to establish new contracts, including the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program.

Concerns about surgeon

Several sources involved in transgender medicine, both in Connecticut and out of state, confirmed the in-state surgeon is neither experienced in vaginoplasty (a term originally used to refer to a procedure on a natural vagina) nor sensitive to the fraught emotional issues transgender people deal with. A 2014 survey conducted by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and National Center for Transgender Equality found that 41 percent of transgender persons attempt suicide.

Callaghans primary care physician, Dr. A.C. Demidont, who practices in Stamford and New Haven, said she has expressed concerns about the Connecticut surgeon with officials of the state Public Health and Social Services departments, including Dr. Lawrence Magras, senior vice president and chief medical officer at Community Health Network of Connecticut. The network is a nonprofit managed-care organization that administrates the states Medicaid program.

Dr. Magras reached out to me, Demidont said. She said Magras told her, We think theres a problem. What providers should we reach out to?

We, as people who take care of hundreds of transgender patients, have been arguing with top leaders of DSS and the department of health in order to have this changed, she said.

This is life or death for people, which is why I continue to fight to make sure people get appropriate care, because this is a huge, huge vacuum that needs to be filled, Demidont said.

My concern has always been that if you only give transgender women one option for that surgery that is not fair, especially when there are better surgeons out there that will create a better outcome, she said.

She said the surgery needs both a urologist to create the vagina and a plastic surgeon to create the labia or the outside of the vagina so it looks like it would on a cisgender woman. Cisgender refers to a person who identifies with the gender they were assigned at birth, a non-transgender person.

Demidont said the in-state surgeon is a competent surgeon but in these procedures he does not have the same experience as surgeons outside of Connecticut have.

A spokeswoman for the surgeons employer said he performs approximately one gender-affirming surgery per month in addition to other kinds of reconstructive urology surgeries. He has lectured on the topic and has taught other urologists this advanced surgical technique and has also educated them and the clinical and administrative staff on how to be culturally sensitive to these patients.

Callaghan, 38, said she self-identified as female at 4 years old. She said the state is resisting approving out-of-state surgeons because the Connecticut doctor charges only $4,000, and that people who work for both Mount Sinai and Leis have confirmed that figure as Connecticut Huskys reimbursement rate for vaginoplasty.

That term traditionally refers to a procedure to tighten a natural vagina, and Ennis said she thought $4,000 might be the rate for the traditional procedure. She said, in her case, Community Health Network and Mount Sinai negotiated a middle ground rate for her surgery.

Dearborn said Connecticut Medicaid would not pay as low a rate as $4,000 for gender-affirmation surgery. In an email, he wrote that Medicaid reimbursement rates are based on surveys of providers and that any doctor would be paid the same rate for a particular procedure. We are in the process of re-examining our fees in this field of practice, he wrote.

Demidont also said she doubted a doctor or hospital would charge that low a fee for such a complex surgery.

Demidont said both Mount Sinai and Hahnemann have training programs for vaginoplasty, and more than 20 procedures a month are performed at Hahnemann.

Ting said since he gave up his general plastic surgery practice in March 2016, he has performed 150 to 200 vaginoplasties. He uses a relatively new innovation in which the deepest portion of the vagina is lined with peritoneum rather than skin, he said.

The peritoneum, a thin membrane that lines the inner abdomen and bodily organs, does not grow hair, as skin does, and produces lubrication.

In order to do Dawns case, I did enroll in Husky Medicaid and it was quite a laborious process, Ting said. I give Husky Medicaid a lot of credit for approving the surgery at Mount Sinai. I dont think its too much of a stretch to say were a center of excellence, he said.

Ting said that once he began doing gender-affirming surgery, I very quickly decided to do nothing else because theres such an unmet need for doctors who can do these operations and care for transgender patients.

Historically, transgender people have been marginalized by not just the general population but by the health care system, Ting said. Until March of 2016, you couldnt get gender-affirmation surgery in New York City.

Ennis is pleased with the results of her surgery. I cant say I feel different as much as I feel relieved, she said. Im finally, finally done. Theres a long road ahead in terms of self-care and I feel like Ive accomplished something personally.

A friend struggles

Callaghan said after sending her to Leis, the state DSS, which oversees Connecticuts Medicaid program, canceled the contract with Leis hospital so they wouldnt have to give me a denial. Dr. Leis had handled many other patients before me but all of a sudden it was a big deal.

The doctor may be enrolled, but the only thing theyre cleared for is basic consultations and not all of the things they need to actually perform a surgery, Callaghan said. Doctors need a surgical contract and they need a hospital.

According to information from DSS, Leis accepts Connecticut Medicaid referrals on a case-by-case basis, as does Ting. Dearborn said Rumer also is enrolled. But negotiations between the hospitals and Husky Health appear to be preventing the doctors from taking on Connecticut Medicaid patients.

A medical professional who asked to remain anonymous but who is familiar with Leis practice said Leis performed many vaginoplasties for Connecticut Medicaid patients until about two years ago. But changes in hospital ownership and administration have led to an impasse between them and Husky.

According to DSS data, Medicaid began paying for gender-reassignment surgery in Connecticut in 2015. Since then, there have been 20 patients who have undergone male-to-female surgery and three who have had female-to-male surgery.

Connecticut was one of the first states to cover reassignment services under Medicaid, Dearborn wrote in an email. Finding endocrinologists, dermatologists, psychiatrists and other providers for transgender services has been difficult, and surgery services are more difficult to locate and enroll.

Coming out, losing a job

Ennis, who was named after her father, Donald, works as a freelance journalist. (While many transgender people do not want to talk about their identities before they came out, Ennis said shes somewhat infamous, has gotten a lot of press and is too well known to try to erase her life as a male.)

She came out as transgender in 2013 and was fired from ABC News the next year (she settled with the network and is not allowed to talk about it). She then worked for The Advocate, the LGBTQ publication, but when her wife died, she left the West Coast to be with her children, Sean, now 19, Sophie, 15, and Liam, 11. I call them my strength, my heart and my soul, she said.

They still call her Dad. We lost their mom to cancer and theres no way of replacing her, she said.

Ennis, who will be on the lead float in New Yorks Pride Parade on June 24, worries about transgender women and men losing protections theyve gained. Connecticut was ahead of the United States in terms of providing state Medicaid coverage for transgender people like me, she said. However, under President Donald Trump, theyve removed protections for transgender Americans.  Hes stripped schools from having to offer equal accommodations for transgender students and barred transgender people from serving in the military.

I dont think most people know that you can still be fired in America for being LGBT, Ennis said. We do have state laws to prevent that. The problem is there are no federal laws.Trump suggests Robert Mueller is behind Russia probe leaks

AFP, Washington :

American President Donald Trump suggested Saturday that Special Counsel Robert Mueller is deliberately leaking to the press documents about his probe into possible collusion with Russia.

"There was No Collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country," Trump tweeted after the investigation passed its one-year mark last month.

"Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media? Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?"

Earlier, The New York Times published a confidential 20-page letter the American president's legal team sent to Mueller in January, along with another sent in June 2017.

In the letters, Trump's lawyers sternly oppose attempts by Mueller's office to interview him, saying "under our system of government, the president is not readily available to be interviewed."

They also argue that Trump cannot be accused of obstructing justice because he has the constitutional power to end the investigation led by the Justice Department.

Mueller was appointed in May 2017 to investigate Russian efforts to tip the 2016 presidential election in Trump's favor.



Good Morning America adds: The president's lawyer Rudy Giuliani threatened a legal battle with special counsel Robert Mueller if he attempts to subpoena Donald Trump.

"If Mueller tries to subpoena us, we're going to court," Giuliani told ABC News.

His latest comments come on the heels of the publication of a 20-page confidential letter sent by Trump's lawyers to Mueller arguing that the president cannot legally obstruct justice in the Russia investigation due to his position as "chief law enforcement officer."

"It remains our position that the President's actions here, by virtue of his position as the chief law enforcement officer, could neither constitutionally nor legally constitute obstruction because that would amount to him obstructing himself, and that he could if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon if he so desired," reads the letter dated Jan. 29, which was first obtained and reported by The New York Times.

Although Giuliani was not on the legal team at the time of the letter, he confirmed the contents of the letter to ABC News and said it was delivered to the special counsel in January.

He told ABC News the legal strategy outlined in the letter remains in effect.

Lawyers for Trump and a spokesman for the special counsel declined to comment to ABC News.

Mueller has requested an interview with Trump, but while the president has said he would be willing to sit down with the special counsel, his legal team has advised against it.

Trump tweeted 40 minutes before the New York Times broke the news, questioning whether Mueller's team or the Department of Justice was responsible for leaking the letter.

"There was No Collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country. Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media? Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?"



Do you have information of interest to Douglas County veterans? Contact John McDonald at jd.mcdonald.jd@gmail.com or 541-580-6178. He is a combat veteran with more than 18 years of military service and serves in the Oregon National Guard. He is also a member of the Douglas County Veterans Forum, the Douglas County Veterans Advisory Committee, the Patrick W. Kelley VFW Post 2468 and the Earle B. Stewart American Legion Post 16.

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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.It was not until after watching her home in Aguada, P.R., fill with water and the roofs blow off houses during Hurricane Maria that Suzette Sanchez began noticing those around her dying.

There was the family friend whose heart surgery had to be postponed when the hospital closed. There was the volunteer who contracted leptospirosis, a bacterial infection often caused by contact with rat urine, while cleaning.

When the government said only 64 people died, I knew it wasnt true because I had many friends that lost a loved one after the storm, Ms. Sanchez said.

Days after a new study from researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health estimated that the death toll from Hurricane Maria may be as high as 4,645 people, mainly because of delayed medical care, hundreds of protesters gathered on Saturday in the shadow of the United Nations to demand that the international organization audit the number of casualties.Irving Sandler, an art critic who drew on his extensive relationships with living artists to compile authoritative histories of Abstract Expressionism and the artistic movements that followed, died on Saturday in Manhattan. He was 92.

The cause was cancer, his wife, Lucy Freeman Sandler, said. He had been in hospice care, she said.

Mr. Sandler was pursuing a doctorate in American history at Columbia University in 1952 when, wandering through the Museum of Modern Art one day, he came across Chief, an abstract painting by Franz Kline. The painting, a dynamic concatenation of thick black curves and slashes, gripped him with savage intensity.

It was the first work of art that I really saw, and it changed my life, something like Saul jumping into Paul, as Elaine de Kooning wrote of Klines own leap from figuration to abstraction, Mr. Sandler recalled in A Sweeper-Up After Artists, his 2003 memoir. My conversion was less dramatic, of course, but my life would never be the same. Or, put another way, Chief began my life-in-art, the life that has really counted for me.

Mr. Sandler began haunting the galleries along East 10th Street, the hub of avant-garde activity in the 1950s and 60s, and spending evenings at the Cedar Tavern, once the unofficial headquarters of the Abstract Expressionist movement. He came to know the principal figures in the art world of the time and eventually spent long hours interviewing them in their studios, getting them to think out loud about their work.ARTS & LEISURE

An article last Sunday about the actor Jim Parsons misspelled the given name of the author of The Boys in the Band. He is Mart Crowley, not Matt.

TRAVEL

An article on May 20 about the Montage Palmetto Bluff resort in South Carolina misidentified the resorts owner. The owner is Crescent Communities, not Montage International, which operates the resort.

THE BOOK REVIEW

The New & Noteworthy column on May 20 misstated the marital status of David Duchovny, whose novel Miss Subways was recently published. Duchovny and Tea Leoni divorced in 2014; she is not his wife.



A review on May 13 about the biography Bibi, by Anshel Pfeffer, misidentified the location of the high school Benjamin Netanyahu attended in the United States. Netanyahu graduated from Cheltenham High School in Wyncote, Pa.; he did not go to high school in Philadelphia.President Trump will host a dinner in the coming week in honor of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, restoring a White House tradition that he had abandoned during his first year in office, a West Wing official said on Saturday.

The dinner is expected to be held on Wednesday. The guest list was not made available.

Mr. Trump has a long history of making inflammatory statements about Muslims. During his campaign, he told an interviewer, I think Islam hates us.

He repeatedly insinuated over the years that former President Barack Obama might be a Muslim, and in 2015 he said he would seriously consider closing mosques. Late that year, he issued his call for a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States, and as president he issued a series of travel bans that mostly targeted Muslim nations.

The dinner, which was reported earlier by Politico, will revive a tradition that Republican and Democratic presidents have carried out for years during Ramadan, when Muslims fast during the daylight hours. A meal called an iftar breaks the fast.The authorities commissioned researchers at George Washington Universitys Milken Institute of Public Health to do this work, which has not yet been completed. However, the researchers came back with an initial report in August, which compared the total number of deaths that occurred in the months after the hurricanes with the number that would normally have been expected.

This provided the scientific foundation upon which the territorial government immediately announced that it was revising its death toll estimate upward, to match the numbers in the new report.

Is it legitimate to count both direct and indirect deaths?

The federal government says yes. In relation to hurricane deaths, the term direct means those that occurred from drowning or other effects of the storm itself. Indirect deaths include those in which related factors, such as difficulty reaching a hospital for care, or trouble refilling medical prescriptions, played a role.

George Washington researchers said they found that doctors in Puerto Rico at the time of the storm were not aware of new guidelines from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, released the month after the hurricane, which recommend that doctors also consider a natural disasters indirect impacts in assessing how to tally deaths.

What was The New York Timess estimate?

In December, The New York Times analyzed vital statistics from the Puerto Rican government. They showed that in the 42 days after Hurricane Maria made landfall on Sept. 20, 2017, 1,052 more people than usual died in Puerto Rico.

That figure was particularly striking because thousands of people had left the island, including many with chronic medical conditions. Based on the likelihood that the population there was smaller in the fall of 2017, we would have expected the number of deaths per day to decrease, not increase.

To obtain our figure of 1,052, we compared the number of deaths for each day in 2017 with the average of the number of deaths for the same days in 2015 and 2016. The figures came from the Puerto Rican government, which provided us with tables showing the number of deaths per day and deaths broken down by cause. The 2017 numbers were preliminary, so we limited our analysis to September and October.TORONTO  The British Canadian filmmaker Norman McLaren makes a peculiar protagonist for a full-length work of dance theater. Yet he, a pioneer in aspects of animation and direction, was inspired by dance throughout his career. On Friday night, the National Ballet of Canada presented, at this citys Four Seasons Center for the Performing Arts, the world premiere of a two-hour tribute to him: Frame by Frame, directed by Robert Lepage, with choreography by Guillaume Cote. Its seldom that ballet attracts a director of Mr. Lepages status; the great passages of this production are all his.

Mainly, Frame by Frame is about McLarens work  proceeding from 1937 to 1986, a year before his death, though in a less chronological order than it pretends to do so. Its two outstanding sequences, however, are about the connection of life and art. Theyre diametrically dissimilar.

The first of these is when McLaren  having just met Guy Glover, who becomes his partner  is first led to see ballet. Were shown Swan Lake back to front: McLaren, in the audience, is behind the dancers. The Swan Queen and Prince Siegfried begin with dreamlike rapidity; the musics sped up. Suddenly McLaren (played by Jack Bertinshaw), leaping over the footlights, dances too  not the same choreography as theirs, something far sillier and funnier. You feel the bathos of this nondancers dancing, but you also love the release and rapture he exhibits.

For a moment, Glover (Felix Paquet), whos working as a stagehand in the wings, is perplexed by McLarens presence onstage. But then he joins in, whereupon the ballets tempo slows to real time. Dancing around the Swan Lake pas de deux, McLaren and Glover move nothing like the ballet characters. Still, their love for each other and for the art becomes absurdly, touchingly vivid. (The effect seems modeled on that in Matthew Bournes internationally popular 1995 Swan Lake, where the tragicomic Prince longs for a lyricism he never fully masters.)This fall, thousands of billboard and lawn signs will be erected all over the country in advance of the midterms, bearing names of politicians up for election. But a new campaign by the organization For Freedoms aims to use those tools not to promote specific candidates but to galvanize debate and political participation through art. The organization has enlisted artists like Sam Durant, Theaster Gates and Marilyn Minter to create public artwork and lead town halls as part of a $1.5 million-dollar campaign.

We are hoping to bring art to the center of public life in the lead-up to the midterms, which is where we think art should belong, Eric Gottesman, one of the organizations founders, said in a phone interview.

A central aspect of the effort, called the 50 State Initiative, will be a fund-raising campaign to put up billboards across the country starting in September. Fifty-two Kickstarter campaigns will seek to raise $3,000 per state plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Dozens of artists, including the three mentioned above as well as Tania Bruguera, Trevor Paglen and Carrie Mae Weems, will contribute billboards. Mr. Paglens work, for example, will focus on the ethics of data collection; Ms. Bruguera will work with the Rhode Island School of Design to create a billboard there.

For Freedoms has also enlisted over 200 local partners  from museums to universities to galleries  to collaborate on free public programming. The Fralin Museum of Art, for example, will use public dialogues and art-making sessions to educate Charlottesville, Va., residents about the history of slavery and discrimination in that city. And the Telfair Museums in Georgia will host a community day, with the exhibiting artists Erin Johnson and Ken Ueno leading tours of their work. More than 175 artists, including Nina Chanel Abney and Emma Sulkowicz, will participate in various ways across the country.Nat'l children programming contest begins in districts

Campus Desk :

A two-day National Children and Youth Programming Contest began on Saturday at district-level giving a boost to build skilled and information technology literate youths for future to help materialize the dream of Digital Bangladesh.

Winning teams from district-level 'Scratch and Python' programming contest will be invited to participate in the national campaign and the ultimate round of the contest, reports BSS

Earlier, an intensive training event was held between May 12 and May 30 for 5400 students of 64 districts in 180 Sheikh Russell Digital Labs across the country.

A Training of Trainers (TOT) programme was also held on April 16-17 at Krishibid Institute for 360 ICT teachers and Lab Coordinators of Sheikh Russell Digital labs.

Leading youth platform 'Young Bangla' and Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC) are jointly organizing the contest to motivate children in programming.

In a recent event of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) summit, Prime Minister's ICT Advisor Sajeeb Wazed Joy announced to involve ICT schooling for primary school students.

"As the priority of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to build a skilled and IT adept youth for future, CRI (Centre for Research and Information) is carrying out a special programming contest all over the country to motivate children into programming in association with ICT Division Bangladesh" said Posts, Telecommunication and Information Technology Minister Mustafa Jabbar.

CRI Associate Coordinator Tonmoy Ahmed said "For the first time we are calling primary level students to participate in scratch programming contest and we are introducing a proper programming contest where participants will learn and have to do coding in contests not just a quiz test like past years".Bleak is the predominant adjective in writing about Michael Herschs music. Dark, somber and anguished are also omnipresent. Little wonder, given that his subjects have included the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, Dantes Inferno, the Holocaust and conditions found in a 1960s psychiatric ward.

But the quality the violinist Patricia Kopatchinskaja most associates with Mr. Herschs music? Necessity.

The despair in the music makes it a necessary experience, to play and to listen to, she said in a phone interview recently. There is nothing you can compare it to.

Ms. Kopatchinskaja is the music director of this years Ojai Music Festival in California, which runs from June 7 to 10 and gives pride of place to Mr. Herschs work, including a new piece of music theater, I hope we get a chance to visit soon. Ms. Kopatchinskaja, who has commissioned several works from him, could have asked for another for violin, but said she preferred to give him free rein.Mr. Dias knew it was not actually Sherlock Holmes. Sherlock Holmes isnt real.

It was the actor Benedict Cumberbatch, who played the eccentric detective on the BBC and PBS television series Sherlock, which was based on the short stories by Arthur Conan Doyle. (Mr. Cumberbatch has more recently appeared as Doctor Strange in the movie Avengers: Infinity War and in the title role for the television series Patrick Melrose.)

The driver and the actor worked together to stop the attack, Mr. Dias told The Sun.

I had hold of one lad and Benedict another. He seemed to know exactly what he was doing. He was very brave. He did most of it, to be honest, he said. They tried to hit him but he defended himself and pushed them away. He wasnt injured. Then I think they also recognized it was Benedict and ran away.

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police in London also shared its record of events: On Nov. 25, the police were called to reports of an assault on Marylebone High Street at 9:30 p.m. local time.

The police account read: The victim, aged in his 20s, was making a delivery on a pedal cycle traveling in the direction of Marylebone Road when he was approached by a group of males. One of the males attempted to grab the victims cycle. The victim dismounted and removed his helmet. He was then punched in the face, struck on the head and hit with his helmet.

Then, the police said, the group got away. There was no mention of a celebrity intervention, and the police did not confirm the names of any of those involved. Nothing was reported stolen. The victim did not go to the hospital. No arrests were made.Heres what to expect in the week ahead:

TECHNOLOGY

Apples conference will focus on software upgrades.

Apple opens its annual weeklong developers conference in San Jose, Calif., on Monday with the unveiling of new software features and updates. Despite a slew of new hardware devices at last year's event, Apple is expected to focus on software this year, including upgrades to the systems underpinning the iPhone and Apple Watch, and new tools for developers building apps that use augmented reality, a technology that displays digital objects in a screen's view of the physical world. Apple is also expected to address growing concerns over smartphone addiction with new tools for parents to control how their children use the companys products.

Jack Nicas

AUTO INDUSTRY

Teslas shareholders could ask tough questions.

Tesla holds its annual shareholder meeting on Tuesday, and the electric carmaker will most likely face tougher questioning from investors than in previous gatherings. The company's stock has slipped more than 15 percent in the past 12 months, it is losing money and burning cash, and it is struggling to ramp up production of the Model 3, a compact car that Teslas chief executive, Elon Musk, is counting on the make the company profitable. Some institutional investors are even pushing to force Mr. Musk to give up his role as chairman, and to vote out three directors seen as close to him, including Mr. Musks brother. While the proposals may provide some drama at the meeting, they are not expected to come close to gaining the approval of a majority of shareholders.

Neal E. BoudetteTheres no doubt that the incidence of these commercials is at least double what it was five years ago, said Larry Chiagouris, a professor of marketing at the Pace University Lubin School of Business.

For the longest time, ads presented the typical American household as Caucasian, heterosexual, two children and two cars in the driveway, he added. Theres still a part of the world thats like that, but theres a large portion that is nothing like the Father Knows Best Americana image. Its taken the advertising community, and particularly their clients, a long time to come to grips with that. Theyre risk averse.

That relatively new awareness, Mr. Chiagouris said, has resulted in not only more ads with interracial couples, but also more gay and lesbian couples.

The prevalence of these commercials is a reflection of modern society, said Sarah Block, the executive vice president and creative director of Leo Burnett USA, who has worked on several ads depicting multiracial families, including commercials for Kraft. Its portraying the situation that is out in the world.

The commercials are a way for a companies to signal that theyre open minded and progressive. I think theres an ever increasing demand from customers to understand not just what products and services you provide but also to understand who you are as a company, what your values are, said Fiona Carter, the chief brand officer of AT&T, which owns DirecTV.Anna Nicoll Jones and Dr. Adom Spencer Crew were married June 1 in Manhattan. The Rev. Susan G. Sparks performed the ceremony at Madison Avenue Baptist Church, where she is the senior pastor.

Mrs. Crew, 32, is a seventh- and eighth-grade mathematics teacher at the School for Inquiry and Social Justice, which is a public middle school in the Bronx, and for which she also runs a specialized high school admissions test-preparation program. She graduated with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and received a masters degree with distinction in teaching mathematics from the Relay Graduate School of Education in New York.

She is the daughter of Laurel Pratt Jones and Kevin W. Jones of North East, Md. The brides father retired as the president of a custom home building company that bore his name and was in North East. Her mother retired as the companys vice president.

Dr. Crew, 35, is an associate at the Long Island City, Queens, dental center of the New York Hotel Trades Council. He graduated from Brown and received a dental degree from N.Y.U.Philip Siu Chung Chan and Kevin Jay Call were married June 2 in Brooklyn. Liam Reilly, a friend of Mr. Chung who was ordained a Universal Life minister for the occasion, officiated at the W Loft hotel in Williamsburg.

Mr. Chan (left), 33, is the arts and culture director at IVY in Manhattan, a networking organization for young professionals. He graduated from Carleton College and is an adviser to the Asian-American Arts Alliance in Dumbo, Brooklyn. He is also a founder of Yellowface.org, a website that promotes racial diversity in ballet.

He is the son of Michele M. Chase of Gardnerville, Nev., and Hak Chi Chan of Union City, Calif. The grooms mother retired as a professor of health education and literacy at John F. Kennedy University in Pleasant Hill, Calif. His father, now retired, was an assistant vice president and financial adviser at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in Union City.

Mr. Call, 30, is the digital communications director for the office of Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo in Manhattan. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of California, Santa Cruz. From 2013 to 2017, was the director of social media at Everytown for Gun Safety, a Manhattan-based nonprofit organization.Susan Jacob and Jaikaran Sandhu were married June 1 at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau. Joey Taia, staff member in the New York City Clerks office, officiated. In December, the couple is to have a traditional Indian wedding ceremony in Delhi, India.

Mrs. Sandhu, 29, is known as Tina. She is a fashion merchandiser at Main Street Fashion, a clothing manufacturer in Manhattan. She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

She is the daughter of Geeta Jacob and Jacob Koshy of Mumbai, India. The brides father is the owner of Jacob & Company, an accounting firm in Mumbai.

Mr. Sandhu, 31, is the director of engineering for the test automation team in the technology department at The New York Times in Manhattan. He graduated from the Delhi College of Engineering, and received a masters degree in computer engineering from the University of Florida.If we were having this conversation in the context of drug prices being reasonable across the board  hey, good news, said Cynthia Pearson, the executive director of the National Womens Health Network, a consumer group. Its just infuriating that the price has gone up and up and up for no good reason.

She said the issue has not gotten more attention because how many people will say vagina in a public setting?

Some companies are using a playful marketing approach, signaling the issue is not as taboo as it once was. The website of Imvexxy  which rhymes with sexy  features an image of a ripe, juicy peach, boasting the product is distinctly designed for sweet relief. A similar product, Intrarosa, which does not contain estradiol, features a photo of a nude older woman, her head thrown back in pleasure.

Some of these products may soon come down in price. In October 2016, a generic of Vagifem, called Yuvafem, entered the market at a slightly reduced list price. Then, in July of last year, Teva Pharmaceuticals began selling a second generic at an even cheaper price. But the pharmacy cash price for Tevas product  $163.91 for a months supply of eight tablets in May  is still higher than what Vagifem cost in 2015, according to the GoodRx analysis.

If more generic manufacturers enter the market, the price could tumble more and Vagifem could become an inexpensive drug like many cholesterol or blood pressure medicines. The same could become true for Estrace cream, which lost its patent protection at the end of last year and now has several generic competitors.

With two generics for Vagifem now available, the drug companies are most likely negotiating big discounts with insurers, meaning patients with coverage may see their costs drop. Elizabeth Traynor, an illustrator in Guntersville, Alabama, had tried virtually every estradiol product and balked at the prices, frequently doing without. But she recently called her insurer, the Government Employees Health Association, and learned she would have to pay $20 for a three-month supply of Yuvafem. Its about time, she said. Hooray!

Estradiol has been around for so long that it has survived several rounds of debate over high prices. In 1959, a Senate inquiry found that the drug maker Schering, now part of Merck, had marked up estradiol  which comes in many forms  by more than 7,000 percent over the cost of materials.

In an echo of modern-day industry talking points, a Schering executive was quoted in an article in The New York Times, saying the high prices were necessary to finance new medical research. The consumers of today must contribute to the benefits which the future will bring, the drug executive said.I set my sights for the Memorial Day recess on Mr. Tester, one of 10 Senate Democrats up for re-election this fall in states President Trump won. In Washington, Mr. Tester has been doing things differently from the rest of that pack, voting often with liberal colleagues and, in one well-publicized episode, helping to take down Mr. Trumps nominee to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs.

I wanted to see why Mr. Tester felt so confident flouting the president. I wanted to talk to Montanans who have sent him twice to Washington despite, in overwhelming numbers, calling themselves Republicans. And I wanted to see where Mr. Tester, the Senates only active farmer, returns each weekend. Covering Congress, it is easy to fall into a trap of seeing politicians and the votes they cast strictly as products of their political parties. Following them home reminds you that politics actually come from somewhere.

The Tester farm is outside the town of Big Sandy, Mont. Mr. Tester grew up on this farm. His grandparents homesteaded it a century ago. The home-styled butcher shop where he lost three fingers as a child is just a few yards away. He told me that when he built his current house on the property, he oriented it at an angle so that the views would capture the limitless prairie encircling it, rather than a picturesque set of mountain peaks in the distance. The prairie, he said, was what hed come from and how hed made his living.

In Washington, I cover veterans policy, meaning I spend a lot of time following Mr. Tester and his Republican counterpart, Senator Johnny Isakson, through the Capitol. But here was something totally different: Mr. Tester hammering away inside the elbow of a broken grain auger, climbing skyward and then balancing himself atop a grain storage bin, bantering with his wife and farming partner, Sharla.

Is your hand in there? Ms. Tester yelled out at one point, when her husband  who has already lost three fingers  shoved his arm into the grain auger. Youre nuts, she sighed when he told her to fire up the machine anyway. (He came out fine.) Here was a man, it quickly became clear, who on the farm and in Washington trusts his instincts enough that he is willing to take risks others will not. Many Montanans, he believes, prefer it that way: They may not agree on everything he does, but they know where he stands and believes that he comes by it honestly.She has other travel plans besides the colleges: a cruise on the Queen Mary 2, to Canada, giving lectures to other passengers. She has done cruises before, and has always insisted on a behind-the-scenes session with the crew.

Usually when I go on the boat, I ask the captain to read questions to me, she said. The last time, the captain was British, very tall, and had to say orgasm and erection. Never did they think they would hear the captain talk about the things we were talking about. This time around, she said, she hoped the captain would have time. If not, I will take the second-in-command.

Then there are the new books, both written with Pierre A. Lehu, a friend who has been an adviser since 1981. (She gave me a title long ago: minister of communications, he said.) Besides the illustrated autobiography, there is Stay or Go: Dr. Ruths Rules for Real Relationships.

Anybody whos in a good relationship, dont buy this book, she said.

That does not sound like a marketing plan that would go over well with the publisher, Amazon Publishing. She is not worried. I dont check with them, she said.

A documentary is also in the works. The film crew will attend her birthday party on Monday night, taping reminiscences from the 400 friends she has invited. It will be held at the Museum of Jewish Heritage, in Lower Manhattan. She is a board member, and when she raises money for the museum, she has a unique pitch. She tells donors, You get good sex for the rest of your life.

The humor is disarming, as her humor has always been, but not disarming enough to mask a basic fact of her identity: Before she was Dr. Ruth, she was a German-Jewish refugee. She describes herself as an orphan of the Holocaust, not a victim.

I do not call myself a survivor, she said. My parents sent me to Switzerland on a Kindertransport. Her father had been taken away by the Gestapo; after World War II, she learned that her parents had been killed in the Holocaust, possibly at Auschwitz. She emigrated to Palestine, joined the paramilitary group Haganah and was wounded in an explosion.ADB grants $195m loan to support Papua New Guinea's health programme

Xinhua, Manila :

The Asian Development Bank's (ADB) said on Friday that its Board of Directors has approved a total financing package of 195 million U.S. dollars "to support the delivery of accessible, affordable, and high-quality health services" in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The financing package is comprised of two regular loans worth 100 million U.S. dollars and 45.10 million U.S. dollars and a 49.9-million-U.S. dollar concessional loan - all sourced from ADB's ordinary capital resources balance sheet - to help PNG's efforts in achieving universal health coverage, the Manila-based bank said.

Despite a period of high economic growth in recent years, averaging 6 percent annually from 20062015, the ADB said PNG failed to achieve its targets for the Millennium Development Goals on maternal and child health. Life expectancy in the country relative to income is low at 65 years and the estimated burden of disease is dominated by chronic diseases, including stroke and heart disease, together with conditions of poverty such as pneumonia and neonatal conditions, the ADB said. It said limited investments in the country's health infrastructure as well as suboptimal health sector governance also undermine service delivery. The Health Services Sector Development Program combines a policy-based operation and project financing to support critical sector reforms and investments in PNG, enabling the long-term sustainability and effective use of the country's health sector financing.

Mr. Cuomo, though he has criticized Mr. de Blasios expanded interpretation of the statute, did not include changing it among the legislative priorities in his current agenda. Mr. Cuomo, a Democrat, has moved further left as he faces a primary challenge in his bid for re-election, but as governor and previously as attorney general he has accepted tens of thousands of dollars from law enforcement unions and rarely pushed back against their interests.

Mr. de Blasio, also a Democrat, has called for removing the cloak on disciplinary records that critics blame on his administration, but he has not come up with legislative language or indicated support for any proposed measures. At a police briefing last month, he said his administration was making a big push to get the law changed by the end of June.

The commissioner, his predecessor and I are united in wanting change in the law that will create the transparency everyone wants and once and for all settle the question, he said.

Those who want the law changed concede it is unlikely as long as Republicans control the Senate. But they are still making the rounds in Albany, with the expectation that if they are not successful in the next few weeks, the political climate could be more favorable after November if Democrats regain control of the upper chamber.Cardinal Miguel Obando y Bravo, who was caught up in the turbulent politics that consumed Nicaragua for much of his adult life, at one time opposing Sandinista leaders and later defending them, died on Sunday at his home in Managua, the countrys capital. He was 92.

The cause was a heart attack, a spokesman for the Roman Catholic Church in Managua said.

Few Nicaraguans could argue when President Daniel Ortega, in conferring a decoration on Cardinal Obando in 2012, called him one of the most important personalities in modern Nicaraguan history.

He rose from poverty to great political and ecclesiastical power and made waves of enemies as he swept back and forth across the political spectrum. Many Nicaraguans loved him at some points in his career and detested him at others.

Obando was a typical product of our society, which is still rural in its culture of power, said the novelist Sergio Ramirez, who was vice president of Nicaragua in the 1980s.Most Americans are shocked by the increasingly frequent scenes of wailing mothers and babies being torn apart by government officers at the Mexican border. The Trump administration has ratcheted up the separation of children from parents as a way to deter migrants from Central America.

Some critics denounce this practice as un-American. It is certainly immoral and violates human rights. But its not unprecedented. Indeed, for long stretches of American history, it was commonplace for children to be snatched from their families.

Solomon Northup, a free black man living in New York, was kidnapped into slavery in 1841. In his memoir, Twelve Years a Slave, he described a slave auction where a woman named Eliza and her little daughter, Emily, were sold to different buyers. Never have I seen such an exhibition of intense, unmeasured and unbounded grief, he wrote.

Emilys parting words were forever seared on Elizas mind: Dont leave me, Mama! Dont leave me! Another child of Elizas was sold at an earlier auction, and the wound of knowing that she would not see her children again would never heal. In the cotton field, in the cabin, always and everywhere, Northup observed, she was talking of them  often to them, as if they were actually present.President Moon Jae-in of South Korea has expressed a hope of joining the United Statess president and North Koreas leader at their summit in Singapore on June 12.To the Editor:

Re Aristotles Wrongful Death (column, May 27):

Frank Bruni is on the mark to lament the fact that some colleges are doing away with liberal arts majors in favor of career preparation. But he conflates two different strategies for preparing students for jobs. To do away with many traditional majors, as Assumption College is doing, is not the same as the way the University of Illinois is responding to career preparation pressure.

Smart schools are encouraging students to major in liberal arts, but they are also coupling practical career and professional training with them. If Illinois is pairing anthropology with computer sciences, its on track with Stanford, which is offering Art Is My Occupation: Professional Development for Creatives.

A number of community colleges are heeding the research of Mark Schneider and Matthew Sigelman, who recently outlined skills in five high-demand career areas that could be added to a liberal arts associate degree. These skills are obvious and include communications, project management and data analysis.

As a Ph.D. in comparative literature (U.C. Berkeley, 1971) who has spent nearly 50 years working to open postsecondary opportunities to young people, I would choose that major again, but in my next life, Id also get a management certificate and a good dose of statistics.The president believes he is above the law. Thats the takeaway from the confidential 20-page memo sent by President Trumps lawyers to the special counsel, Robert Mueller, published over the weekend by The Times. And its the same sentiment that Rudy Giuliani expressed on Sunday when he suggested that Mr. Trump has the power to pardon himself.

The central claim of the legal memorandum is that it is impossible for the president to illegally obstruct any aspect of the investigation into Russias election meddling. Thats because, as president, Mr. Trump has the constitutional power to terminate the inquiry or pardon his way out of it. Therefore  and this is the key and indefensible point  he cannot obstruct justice by exercising this authority no matter his motivation.

This understanding of presidential power is radical and absolutist. It is also unsound and almost certain to be sharply rejected should it ever be proffered in court.

Even granting the contention that Mr. Trump could simply terminate the investigation, it is a non sequitur to argue, as the presidents lawyers do, that as a consequence he cannot obstruct it. Imagine, for example, that the worst version of facts proves true: that Trump fired the F.B.I. director, James Comey, tried to fire Mr. Mueller, constructed a false account of the June 2016 Russia meeting, and tried to force Attorney General Jeff Sessions to reverse his recusal decision that was driven by Justice Department policy, all to protect his own skin and his familys fortune.To the Editor:

Re Philip Roths Toxic Masculinity,  by Sam Lipsyte (Op-Ed, May 24):

When I imagine a woman writing about men with the same tone of rapacious objectification as we were subjected to for 50 years under the mind-bending thrall of Philip Roth, I am left at one place only: I know  and many women who write know  that to say something mean or nasty about men in the manner Mr. Roth wrote about women is a recipe for rejection, ridicule and non-publication.

The younger female writers in the United States who have been very successful in the last 25 or so years (it is somewhat different in Canada and Europe) often write lightly fictionalized graphic descriptions of anorexia or addiction or promiscuity cloaked in self-shaming apologia for being.

American women writers (for the most part) have not expressed the same kind of hypersexualized contempt for the opposite sex as Mr. Roth did with signature bravado for fear of offending the market, even if they might let slip a covert admission or two about secretly admiring Mr. Roth.

ERICA REX, TOURS, FRANCE

The writer is a freelance journalist.

To the Editor:

Re Roths Jewish Women, by Dara Horn (Sunday Review, May 27):

The first book I read by Philip Roth was Portnoys Complaint. It was in 1970 in London, where I had arrived from Mumbai in September of the year before. I was pregnant and unemployed, so most of my days were spent reading alone at home in a rented basement flat in North Kensington.My claim is that religion can provide direct access to this emotional life in ways that science does not. Yes, science can give us emotional feelings of wonder at the majesty of nature, but there are many forms of human suffering that are beyond the reach of any scientific alleviation. Different emotional stresses require different kinds of rescue. Unlike previous secular tributes to religion that praise its ethical and civilizing function, I think we need religion because it is a road-tested form of emotional management.

Of course, there is a well-documented dark side to spiritual emotions. Religious emotional life tilts toward the melodramatic. Religion still trades readily in good-and-evil narratives, and it gives purchase to testosterone-fueled revenge fantasies and aggression. While this sort of zealotry is undeniably dangerous, most religion is actually helpful to the average family struggling to eke out a living in trying times.

Religious rituals, for example, surround the bereaved person with our most important resource  other people. Even more than other mammals, humans are extremely dependent on others  not just for acquiring resources and skills, but for feeling well. And feeling well is more important than thinking well for my survival.

Religious practice is a form of social interaction that can improve psychological health. When youve lost a loved one, religion provides a therapeutic framework of rituals and beliefs that produce the oxytocin, internal opioids, dopamine and other positive affects that can help with coping and surviving. Beliefs play a role, but they are not the primary mechanisms for delivering such therapeutic power. Instead, religious practice (rituals, devotional activities, songs, prayer and story) manage our emotions, giving us opportunities to express care for each other in grief, providing us with the alleviation of stress and anxiety, or giving us direction and an outlet for rage.

Atheists like Richard Dawkins, E. O. Wilson and Sam Harris, are evaluating religion at the neocortical level  their criteria for assessing it is the rational scientific method. I agree with them that religion fails miserably at the bar of rational validity, but were at the wrong bar. The older reptilian brain, built by natural selection for solving survival challenges, was not built for rationality. Emotions like fear, love, rage  even hope or anticipation  were selected for because they helped early mammals flourish. In many cases, emotions offer quicker ways to solve problems than deliberative cognition.

For us humans, the interesting issue is how the old animal operating system interacts with the new operating system of cognition. How do our feelings and our thoughts blend together to compose our mental lives and our behaviors? The neuroscientist Antonio Damasio has shown that emotions saturate even the seemingly pure information-processing aspects of rational deliberation. So something complicated is happening when my students mother remembers and projects her deceased son, and embeds him in a religious narrative that helps her soldier on.Ms. Batesons experience underscores Facebooks difficulties as the Silicon Valley company aims to prevent manipulation of its ad system in elections, especially as the midterms loom this November. While the company has introduced several measures to improve the transparency of political ads on its platform, some groups and individuals appear to be finding ways to flout the new restrictions  and Facebook has not been able to catch them.

That raises questions about whether there are other gaps. Apart from improving transparency of political ads, Facebook has announced that it will not run a campaign ad in the United States unless it verifies the advertiser through a Social Security number, that it will keep a public archive of all political ads so they are easily searchable and that it has added a paid for label atop campaign ads so users can get more information.

Paul Smith, the administrator of Sierra Nevada Revolutions Facebook page, said that despite Facebooks efforts, he was able to place other political ads  some about Ms. Bateson and some about other issues  without labeling them. He didnt say how many.

There is another potential loophole in Facebooks rules. It appears that one person can go through the verification process and then give the account to someone else. Mr. Smith, for instance, said that while Facebook had authenticated him as a political advertiser, he later handed over control of Sierra Nevada Revolutions account to others. That meant others could have used his Facebook verification to post political ads without the social networks knowing it was not him.Clerical errors are common, said Mr. Clark, whose store opened in 1960 and was inspected by the A.T.F. this year. As long as dealers work with the A.T.F. to correct errors and file correctly, the violation is rarely seen as serious.

Some gun shops consider it a pain. They feel like the A.T.F. is the bad guys, Mr. Clark said. The whole idea here is to catch bad guys. I want bad guys to not have guns just as much as anybody.

Most gun dealers abide by the law and are really careful to sell guns in a responsible manner, said Avery Gardiner, the co-president of the Brady campaign. Theres a small number of gun dealers engaged in really irresponsible practices, putting everybody at risk, and the A.T.F. knows exactly who they are and allows them to continue operating.

For gun dealers to lose their licenses, the A.T.F. must prove they willfully violated the Gun Control Act. Violating the law is not enough to justify the loss of a license; inspectors must prove that store owners knew they were acting illegally.

Other regulatory statutes dont have that, said Adam Winkler, an expert on constitutional law and gun policy. This is part of a larger pattern in the federal gun laws that make it hard for A.T.F. to enforce.

In the bureau, one former A.T.F. inspector said, that standard was seen as difficult to uphold in court, where dealers would almost certainly appeal the A.T.F.s decision. That prompted supervisors to overrule inspectors recommendations to revoke licenses, said the former inspector, who requested anonymity because he continues to work with the gun industry.

To prove violations were willful, the A.T.F. seeks to establish a record of warnings. In warning letters, senior A.T.F. officials told dealers that violating the Gun Control Act again could jeopardize their license. But a review of A.T.F. records showed that even when stores had received such warnings and continued to violate the law, supervisors let them keep operating.Experts for changing attitude, raising awareness to cut maternal mortality



As women in both rural and urban areas of the country do not have adequate knowledge about reproductive health, the experts advise to raise awareness among them to reduce maternal mortality rate.

They also suggest changing mentality towards women and taking more care of pregnant mothers.

The experts say pregnancy is not a sickness. Yet, around 13 percent women aged between 15 years and 49 years die from delivery related complications. These deaths result mainly from negligence towards women. Such deaths are preventable, according to a report titled 'Maternal Mortality and Health Services for Mothers in Bangladesh Study 2016: Preliminary Report'. Such studies were conducted earlier in 2001 and 2010.

In 2001, 20 percent cause of women's death was pregnancy related while it decreased 14 percent in 2010 and after six years it came down to 13 percent.

The report showed that most women aged between 20 years and 34 years are dying from pregnancy related complications. Beside this, 24 percent women are dying of cancer and 23 percent of blood infection related diseases.

According to the study report of 2016 made by Bangladesh government, in every one lakh, a total of 196 pregnant mothers are dying every year. The report said currently the rate of delivery in health centers has increased to 47 percent (2016) which was 9 percent in 2001 and 23 percent in 2010.

Experts said all the government and non-government organisations should work together for providing necessary information of reproductive health to the adolescents for their healthy life.

They mentioned that proper knowledge and education on reproductive health could help adolescents boost their level of confidence in carrying out safe life.

Quamrun Nahar, a researcher on reproductive health, said conversations between older generation and the adolescents regarding sexuality are a rare case and to avoid complexities associated with adolescents' physiological development, parents should discuss this issue very cordially with their children.

Dr Nazmun Nahar said, "People in our country feel embarrassed to discuss about sexual topics. There was a strong belief among guardians that adolescents would be encouraged to have sexual experiment because of the discussion."

She said sometimes they feel adolescents are too young to understand the topic. Culture and religious beliefs are also barriers to talking about the issue, she added.Well as raids for immigrants continue to sweep the country, a wave of fear and panic is gripping undocumented workers. New video shows ICE agents arresting an alleged victim of domestic violence right after she was granted a protective order. ICE arrests like this could become the new normal. The precedent this sets for people who want to come forward and help solve crimes but are now afraid of being deported. If I wasnt undocumented and if he wasnt undocumented I would have called the cops. They have the right to ask me if Im documented or not. What did you see happen? Living under the same roof when someone that you know could harm you or your children and not being able to call the authorities  its a very scary situation. You have to think, what are the consequences if I call the cops? I dont want to get him in trouble. Because it wouldnt just be a day in jail and you learned your lesson. It would be a day in jail, and then youre going to get deported. Well I want to thank you all for joining me this evening as I sign a law, it ensures that law enforcement officers in Texas can and will cooperate with ICE. Elected officials and law enforcement agencies, they dont get to pick and choose which laws they will obey. Texas has now banned sanctuary cities in the Lone Star State. Senate Bill 4  it opens the window for law enforcement officers to ask for immigration status. So thats the thing. Everybodys scared. A lot of folks are scared. And then that fear has always been there. It just enhanced when S.B. 4 came in, you know, just in the talks. And so it doesnt help make our job easier. Thats for sure. It seems like theres a culture problem. Especially with Hispanics. Theres so many victims that eventually do not go far enough to stop this. What can we do. Were not interested in somebodys immigration status. If a person is a victim of a crime or the witness of a crime, we want them to understand that this department stands with the victims and witnesses of crime. But most importantly, a crime that impacts children and women disproportionately like domestic violence. Theres been a really mean-spirited debate in terms of immigration at the national level. And here in Texas with Senate Bill 4, with the anti-sanctuary city bill. It creates an environment where people feel like, If I report this, theyre going to be more interested in my immigration status rather than my value as a human being.BIG SANDY, Mont.  Under a nearly cloudless sky on the sun-speckled northern prairie last Tuesday, Jon Tester, this states senior senator, had his hands deep inside a 25-year-old grain auger.

In Washington, the White House was letting it be known that President Trump was planning a summertime blitz against Democrats running for re-election in states that he had won, a tour that would surely bring him to Montana, where the presidents margin was 20 percentage points.

Mr. Tester had recently torpedoed the nomination of the presidents personal physician, Ronny L. Jackson, to be his secretary of veterans affairs, incurring Mr. Trumps wrath  very dishonest and sick! the commander in chief thundered on Twitter.

But Mr. Tester, a third-generation lentil and pea farmer trying to make up for a late spring, was far more concerned with a broken shear pin that had stopped his bright red auger, which he needed to raise and store leftover seed from the 1,800 or so acres his family has been working for a century. Another repair job a few days earlier had taken out a fresh chunk of flesh from his famously mangled left hand. (Mr. Tester lost three fingers to a meat grinder as a child.)MEXICO CITY  During several lively campaign rallies on a recent day in Mexico City, the leftist front-runner in the Mexican presidential race told his supporters what they wanted to hear, time and again.

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, a former mayor of Mexico City, railed against corruption and what he called the mafia of power. He vowed to combat violence and impunity. He decried inequality and promised wage increases for the working class. He pledged to increase investment in social services for the young and the old.

But there was one issue notably absent from his populist oratory: international relations, specifically those with the neighbor to the north.

Mr. Lopez Obradors only mention of President Trump  who has spent the past two years hectoring Mexico, stripping the bilateral relationship of much of its hard-fought good will  was a throwaway joke about selling him the Mexican presidential plane in an effort to pare back executive branch luxuries.JALALABAD, Afghanistan  Eleven members of the Mirza Gul family, 10 of them children, gathered around an unfamiliar object on the ground outside their home. It was 6 a.m. on April 29, and the night before, the Taliban had fought Afghan soldiers nearby.

Two of the smaller children picked the object up, and 16-year-old Jalil then realized that it was dangerous: an unexploded rocket from the battle. He tried to wrest it away from them, but in the tussle, it fell and exploded.

It was a cruel day, even by the standards of Afghanistans long war.

By nightfall, four were dead, including Jalil, who had tried to save them all and died at a hospital that night. One 4-year-old girl, Marwa, lost both her twin sister, Safwa, and their mother, Brekhna, who had been nearby making dung cakes for fuel. One of Brekhnas nieces, a 6-year-old, was also killed in the blast.

Seven survivors  three brothers and four of their first cousins  were left to bear the weight of those losses, and more: Every one of them lost a leg, and two lost both.JAKARTA, Indonesia  Yanto Awerkion knew quite well that he would infuriate the local Indonesian authorities for organizing a meeting to discuss a petition for an independence referendum in the strife-torn Papua region  but he did it anyway.

I was exercising my right to free speech, said Mr. Awerkion, a senior official of the West Papua National Committee, a pro-independence organization, who said his ensuing arrest on accusations of treason was the third time he had faced charges for his political beliefs.

The local police, however, did not see the case as a free-speech issue. He was arrested after the gathering in his hometown Timika, where he is vice chairman of the local branch of the independence committee, in May last year on charges of trying to overthrow the state. He was jailed for 10 months.

At his trial this March, Mr. Awerkion, 28, was convicted of treason under an archaic Dutch colonial law, but released on Easter Sunday for time served.It was unclear if Mr. Assad had promised a concrete visit or had merely suggested it as a possibility out of diplomatic politeness.

Analysts questioned whether the report represented the true intentions of Mr. Assad, given that it gave no date or details. David Maxwell, associate director for the Center for Security Studies at Georgetown University, said that Ambassador Mun may have misunderstood Mr. Assad, or his aides may have misreported what they thought the Syrian leader said.

Given the looming summit with Mr. Trump, Mr. Maxwell said he was puzzled by the Norths announcement of a possible visit from the Syrian leader, who has been entangled in a bloody civil war and condemned by the West for the use of chemical weapons against his own citizens.

I am struggling to figure it out and trying to put aside my Western bias and look at from Kim Jong-uns perspective, Mr. Maxwell said. If they think it enhances their legitimacy, then they certainly dont have a good understanding of the international community, and certainly what the U.S. is going to think about it.

United Nations experts accused North Korea of shipping materials to the Syrian government that could be used in the production of chemical weapons during the brutal civil war it has been fighting against rebels since 2011.

The materials were part of at least 40 shipments that North Korea made to Syria between 2012 and 2017 that could be used for both civilian and military purposes, the United Nations report said. North Korean technicians had also been seen working at chemical weapons and missile facilities in Syria.

Mr. Trump has twice ordered airstrikes against Syria to punish Mr. Assad for suspected chemical attacks on civilians, saying the Syrian president had committed crimes of a monster.TOKYO  It seems as if all they would really need is a room with a table and some chairs.

The reality, however, is that planning the coming summit meeting between President Trump and Kim Jong-un to discuss North Koreas nuclear future will require deciding countless, infinitesimal details, often via tricky diplomatic negotiations.

It doesnt help that any of those details could be thrown out at the last minute by either leader, both of whom have shown a tendency to depart from any script.

Even before Mr. Trump declared last Friday that the summit meeting was back on, delegations from the United States and North Korea had arrived in Singapore last week to work out the logistics of the June 12 conference.

The two sides will be negotiating everything from the site of the meeting to which leader sits where at the table, who is allowed in the room with them, the number of meals and breaks, what to use in a toast between the two leaders (given that Mr. Trump does not drink alcohol), what gifts could be exchanged and who will pay for what.BEIJING  The United States and China ended trade talks in Beijing on Sunday without any announced deals and with Chinese officials refusing to commit to buying more American goods without a Trump administration agreement not to impose further tariffs on Chinese exports.

If the United States introduces trade measures, including an increase of tariffs, all the economic and trade outcomes negotiated by the two parties will not take effect, China said in a statement distributed by the state-controlled news media.

The apparent impasse left the Trump administration with the issue of what to do about Chinas industrial policies. It also left unresolved an awkward issue for both sides: the Chinese telecommunications company ZTE, which had violated sanctions against North Korea and Iran.

President Trump had sent to the talks what was essentially an export promotion team led by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and including senior officials from the Treasury and from the Agriculture Department. Conspicuously absent were top officials from the Office of the United States Trade Representative, which has threatened to impose 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion a year in Chinese goods, in addition to the tariffs already imposed on $3 billion a year in Chinese steel and aluminum exports.DOVER, England  Trucks rumble nonstop through Britains busiest ferry port, one every few minutes, some headed for France, others arriving here in Dover, where they trundle along an elevated roadway that scales the towns striking white cliffs.

But a cloud is hanging over the ceaseless flow of cargo to and from continental Europe  and it is more than a fog blown in from the English Channel.

Of the thousands of trucks that use Dover each day, only a fraction are stopped by British officials. That is because both Britain and France are members of the European Union and of its customs union, which removes the need for border checks on most goods.

Yet when Britain quits the bloc, a process known as Brexit, all that could change, and the question of how, when  or whether  to abandon a European customs union has divided and paralyzed the British cabinet.ROME  Days after taking office, the two pillars of Italys first populist government led rallies Sunday in Sicily, where they detailed their strategies for deporting migrants and enacting other campaign promises that helped put them in power.

Matteo Salvini and Luigi Di Maio, the leaders of the right-wing League and the euroskeptic Five Star Movement, want to capitalize on the momentum of their coalition government taking national office Friday.

But with each man emphasizing different priorities, there are doubts if the new government, led by a political novice with Five Star sympathies, Giuseppe Conte, will last a full five-year term.

During the campaign, the League stoked fears about migrants, who have arrived in large numbers in Italy. Mr. Salvini, the interior minister in the new government, vowed to expel them en masse, dismissing logistical challenges and costs.Grief and pain for slain Gaza paramedic

Mother ( centre) Sabreen al-Najjar

Al Jazeera News, Khan Younis, Gaza Strip :

Too worn out to shed more tears, Sabreen al-Najjar recalls the last time she saw her daughter alive.

"She stood up and smiled at me, saying she was heading out to the protest," the 43-year-old told Al Jazeera from her home in Khuza'a, southern Gaza Strip.

That protest was the 10th Friday demonstration held by Palestinians since March 30 near the fence with Israel dubbed the Great March of Return. Sabreen's daughter, 21-year-old Razan, had been in all of them, volunteering as a paramedic to help those shot by Israeli snipers.

"In a blink of an eye, she was out of door. I ran to the balcony to watch her outside but she had already made her way to the end of the street," Sabreen said on Saturday, surrounded by grieving relatives, friends and female patients her daughter had once treated.

"She flew like a bird in front of me." At the protest site in Khuza'a, witnesses said that Razan approached the fence on Friday in her medic's vest and with both of her arms raised to show the Israeli soldiers a 100 yards away that she posed no threat.

Her intention was to evacuate a wounded protester lying on the other side of the fence, after he had managed to cut a hole through it. Instead, Razan was shot in her chest with live ammunition, the single bullet escaping through a hole in the back of her vest. She became the 119th Palestinian to be killed by Israeli forces since the popular protests began calling for the Palestinians' right of return to the homes from which they were expelled from in 1948. More than 13,000 others have been wounded.

Rida Najjar, also a medical volunteer, said she was standing next to Razan when she was shot.

"As we entered the fence to retrieve the protesters, the Israelis shot tear gas at us," the 29-year-old, who is not related to Razan, told Al Jazeera on Saturday.

"Then a sniper fired a single shot, which hit Razan directly. The fragments of the bullet wounded three other members of our team. "Razan at first didn't realise she had been shot, but then she started crying out, 'My back, my back!' and then she fell on the ground.

"It was very clear from our uniforms, our vests and medical bags, who we are," she added. "There were no other protesters around, it was just us."

Speaking to The New York Times last month, Razan described the enthusiasm she had for the work she did.

"We have one goal - to save lives and evacuate [wounded] people," she said. "We do this for our country," she continued, adding that it was humanitarian work.

Sabreen said her daughter had been on the front lines tending to injured protesters since March 30 - and not just on Fridays. She became a familiar face at the Khan Younis encampment, one of five set up along the length of the fence east of the Gaza Strip. "She never cared about what people said," Sabreen said. "She concentrated on her work in the field as a volunteer medic, which reflected her strength and her determination."

"My daughter had no weapons; she was a medic," she added. "She gave a lot to her people."

Medics on the ground previously told Al Jazeera that Israeli forces have been shooting at demonstrators with a new type of round.

Known as the "butterfly bullet", it explodes upon impact, pulverising tissue, arteries and bone, while causing severe internal injuries. "She was deliberately and directly killed by an explosive bullet, which is illegal under international law," Sabreen said.

"I demand a UN investigation so that the murderer will be tried and convicted," she said, describing the Israeli soldiers as "brutal and unforgiving".

She then went quiet. When Sabreen spoke again, her words elicited wails from the women around her.

"I wish I could have seen her in her white wedding dress, not her shroud," she said.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health said in a statement that Israeli forces targeted a group of unarmed people east of Khuza'a on Friday, which resulted in "a team of paramedics wearing white medical coats attempting to evacuate the injured".

"The team of paramedics raised their hands, stressing that they did not pose any danger to the occupiers' heavily armed forces," the health ministry said.

"Immediately, the Israeli occupation forces fired live bullets, hitting Razan Najjar in the chest, and injuring several other paramedics."

Mohammed al-Hissi, director of Red Crescent emergency medical team, told Al Jazeera that they tried to treat Razan immediately after she was shot before she was transferred to the European Hospital in Khan Younis.

"The targeting of Razan is not the first violation in our line of work as medics in the field, and it probably won't be the last," he said. "This is a war crime against health workers and a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention which gives medics the right to offer their assistance in times of war and peace."

The spokesperson of the ministry, Ashraf al-Qidra, added that more than 100 protesters were wounded on Friday, including 40 with live ammunition. The others suffered from tear-gas related injuries.

According to the World Health Organization, 238 health personnel and 38 ambulances have been targeted by Israeli forces since the start of the Great March of Return movement.

Razan's funeral on Saturday in Khuza'a was attended by thousands of people.

Video clips showing her colleagues breaking down in tears at the hospital were circulated on social media, a sense of shock and grief etched on their faces.



Rescuers said on Sunday that dozens of migrants had drowned off the coasts of Tunisia and Turkey, while hundreds had been rescued off Spain, as the flow of people seeking to get to Europe continued despite tightened controls.

At least 46 migrants died when their boat sank off Tunisias coast, the countrys Defense Ministry said on Sunday. The Coast Guard rescued 67 others, and the operation was continuing, the ministry said in a statement.

The migrants were of Tunisian and other nationalities, according to the ministry. Security officials said the boat had been packed with about 180 migrants, including around 80 from other African countries.I will say what I have said already before: We are for solidarity, but we are against stupidity, he said, advocating a policy of discouraging migrants from coming to Europe by improving conditions in their own countries.

Since the nations independence from Communist Yugoslavia in 1991, politics in Slovenia has had a conservative tinge, but center and leftist parties have largely dominated governing coalitions. The shift to populist parties has taken place since the migration crisis of 2015 and 2016, though the shift has not been as strong as in neighboring Italy, where an anti-establishment government was sworn in last week.

The centrist party of Marjan Sarec, a former actor and the mayor of Kamnik, a small town north of the capital, Ljubljana, came in second with 13 percent of the vote. Mr. Sarec, 40, came close to unseating the incumbent, Borut Pahor, in the presidential election last year.

Mr. Sarec cast himself as an anti-establishment candidate and a leader for a new generation of Slovenians who have come of age in a democratic society and whose top concerns are the economy, jobs and social security, including a robust pension system.

He congratulated Mr. Jansa for the victory on Sunday, but said his party would heed its vow not to form a coalition with the populist party. If Mr. Jansa fails to cobble together a government, Mr. Sarec would get a chance. If he too failed, the president could call new elections.

Finishing third in the poll were the Social Democrats of Dejan Zidan, with 10 percent.

The Modern Center Party, led by the outgoing prime minister, Miro Cerar, finished fourth with 9.5 percent  a crushing defeat considering that Slovenias economy grew by 5 percent on his governments watch in 2017, one of the fastest rates on the continent, according to the European Union.

The election for the 90-seat legislature took place a few weeks earlier than the normal four years because of Mr. Cerars abrupt resignation in March after a major infrastructure project he had backed was shelved.Still, Mr. Sanchez has defied the odds before. An economist by training, he was a relative unknown when he was first elected leader of his party, in 2014. His credentials at that point were limited  he had entered Parliament not by winning votes in an election, but as an internal party substitute for a lawmaker who was leaving his seat early.

But the Socialists apparently hoped that a younger, more photogenic leader would allow them to turn the page on the fiasco of 2011, when Mr. Rajoy won a landslide election victory after voters punished the Socialists for Spains financial crisis and record unemployment.

By the time Spain held its next election, in 2015, however, Mr. Sanchez was no longer the new kid on the block. Two other parties had emerged  Podemos and Ciudadanos  to break up Spains bipartisan politics and take on the established parties with more youthful leaders even than Mr. Sanchez.

Mr. Sanchez led the Socialists to their worst-ever election result, and then lost even worse six months later, when a political deadlock forced Spain to hold another inconclusive vote. After these electoral setbacks, he came under heavy personal criticism, accused of prolonging the deadlock by putting his own ambitions ahead of those of the Socialists and of Spain as a whole.

He behaved like a fool without scruples, El Pais, a Spanish newspaper, wrote in a damning editorial at the time. The campaign to discredit Mr. Sanchez involved heavyweights in the Socialist party, notably Felipe Gonzalez, a former prime minister.India would be unlocked in a staggered manner: Here is what the govt is planning

Get used to the idea that area wise lockdowns will continue for more time

Govt invites farmers for talks again at a time and date of the unions choosing

Agri production grew during NDA rule says union minister

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

Production and productivity in agricultural sector have increased during the four years of NDA rule at the Centre, compared to the UPA regime, Union Minister Radha Mohan Singh said. The NDA government has also given push to policy reforms in the sector, the Union Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Minister said.

"In the four years of the (Narendra) Modi government, the average foodgrain production has increased to 280 million tonnes in 2017-18 from the average foodgrain production of 255 million tonnes during 2010-2014" when the Congress led UPA was in power, he said here.

Singh, a BJP leader from Bihar, was talking to reporters on various schemes, projects and achievements of his ministry in the four years of the NDA government.

He said the central government has come out with farmers' welfare schemes, which lay emphasis on increasing their income, instead of focusing only on production.

"That's why government is stressing on production of horticulture, fisheries, dairy etc," Singh said.

The average horticulture production was 265 million tonnes during 2010-2014, which increased to 307 million tonnes in 2017-18, the minister said, adding that fisheries production witnessed 26 per cent increase during the same period, while dairy production witnessed 23.69 per cent rise during 2014-2018 when compared to the figures of 2010-2014.

Stating that the NDA government has made huge allocation to the agriculture sector in the five union budgets presented so far, Singh said the allocation has been Rs 2.11 lakh crore in the NDA government as against Rs 1.21 lakh crore during the UPA regime.

Talking about some of his ministry's work for the development of Bihar, he said the central government set up Mahatma Gandhi Central University at Motihari in which a faculty of agriculture will be established.

The Rajendra Agricultural University was upgraded to a central university, the minister said, adding that Dr Rajendra Prasad's birthday, on December 3, will be celebrated as "Rashtriya Krishi Shiksha Diwas".

National Banana Research Centre has been set up at Goraul in Vaishali district, while a honey bee farming development centre will also be set up in the state, he said, adding that the Mahatma Gandhi National Integrated Research Centre has also been set up at Motihari.

To a query on special category status for Bihar, Singh said, "The 14th Finance Commission has increased states' share in central taxes. The 15th Finance Commission is visiting various places and meeting people".

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who heads the BJP-JD(U) government in Bihar, had recently made a fresh pitch for grant of special category status to the state and indicated that the demand would be put before the 15th Finance Commission.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 11:30 [IST]Businessman in Kolkata shot at after his car was stopped by 18 men

Army jawan who died in Kolkata hospital was not suffering from Nipah virus, says medical report

India

oi-Madhuri

Pune's National Institute of Virology test reports on Sunday cited that the soldier did not die of Nipah virus. The army had sent samples of a 27-year-old soldier's body fluids to ascertain whether he died of Nipah virus infection on Friday.

Seenu Prasad, who hails from Kerala and posted at the Eastern Command headquarters at Fort William, was admitted to the Command Hospital here on May 20 and passed away on May 25.

He was admitted at the Command Hospital with fever on May 20 and passed away on May 25.

Meanwhile, the West Bengal government has set up an isolation ward for people being admitted with the 'mystery fever' at the Infectious Disease Hospital in Beliaghata in Kolkata.

Prasad had been on a month's leave to Kerala before resuming duty on May 13. His samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune which is the only agency in the country to certify whether it was a case of Nipah virus or not. The deadly Nipah virus has so far claimed at least 14 lives, mostly in Kerala.

For those unversed about Nipah virus, it is spread by fruit bats, causes communicable disease and is fatal for both animals and humans. The symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, drowsiness, respiratory illness, disorientation and mental confusion. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), these signs and symptoms can progress to coma within 24-48 hours.2 more killed in gunfights

Two suspected drug traders were killed in reported gunfights in Tangail and Rangpur early Sunday amid the countrywide anti-narcotics drive.

In Tangail, a suspected drug trader was killed in a reported gunfight with members of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) during an anti-narcotics drive in Golra village of Kalihati upazila early Sunday.

The deceased was identified as Ruhul alias Kailya Ruhul.

Nazmul Alam, company commander of Rab-12, said the gunfight took place around 2 am which left Ruhul dead on the spot.

Two RAB men were also injured in the gunfight, he added.

In Rangpur, suspected drug trader Rafiqul Islam Opi, 45, son of late Ahsan Ali of Haragacha Municipality area in Kaunia upazila, was killed in a reported gunfight between two groups of drug traders.

Being information about the 'gunfight', police rushed to the spot and recovered Rafiqul's body, said Saifur Rahman, additional superintendent of district police.

The law enforcers also recovered two pistols, a sharp weapon, 40 bottles of Phensidyl and 225 pieces of Yaba tablets.Attacks in J&K continue despite unilateral ceasefire

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

The unilateral ceasefire declared by the union government in the holy month of Ramazan has had no effect on the terrorists. Terrorists continued to carry out attacks and Saturday alone reported three such incidents.

Four CRPF personnel and two civilians, including a woman, were injured on Saturday in three separate grenade attacks on security forces, police said.

In the first attack, militants lobbed a grenade towards a security forces patrol party in Fatehkadal area of Srinagar, they said. Three CRPF personnel and a woman were injured in the explosion, they said. The injured were taken to a nearby hospital, where their condition is stated to be stable.

In the second attack, militants targeted a CRPF vehicle in Budshah Chowk area near the city centre here, injuring a jawan and a civilian, the police said. The third grenade attack took place in Magarmal Bagh area of the city, they said.

However, there was no damage due to the explosion there. There have been at least six grenade attacks in Kashmir valley, including one at the residence of ruling PDP MLA Mushtaq Shah, since Friday.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 6:20 [IST]Lawyer on EC's panel resigns for values not being in consonance with poll body

TMC delegation to meet Election Commission in Delhi today; To request for early bypolls in Bengal

Congress claims 60 lakh fake voters included in MP electoral rolls, EC orders probe

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

The Congress on Sunday accused the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh of electoral misconduct by including the names of 60 lakh "fake voters" in the voters' list and requested the Election Commission (EC) to remove all such entries from the electoral rolls of the 230 Assembly constituencies in the state.

The EC has ordered the constitution of a team for Bhopal and Narmadapuram (Hoshangabad) each, who will look into the alleged errors in the Madhya Pradesh electoral rolls.The final report will be submitted to EC by June 7.

The EC teams will visit the Narela, Bhojpur, Seoni-Malwa and Hoshangabad assembly seats to ascertain how the discrepancies occurred.

After reaching the state tomorrow, the teams would also fix responsibility for multiple and fake entries, EC said

Congress on Sunday alleged irregularities in voter rolls in Madhya Pradesh and claimed that there are approximately 60 Lakh fake voters registered in the voting list of the state.

Madhya Pradesh Congress Chief Kamal Nath alleged that 60 lakh fake voters were deliberately registered in the state's voter list.

"We have given proof to the EC as regards how one voter has been enlisted in different constituencies with the same name, address and father's name. This cannot be any mistake, it has been done deliberately by the present Madhya Pradesh government," Nath told reporters after meeting the EC officials.

The Congress leaders also requested the EC for a special monitoring mechanism to remove all the "multiple" and "demographically similar" entries and urged the poll panel to inform all the national political parties on a weekly basis about the status of identification of such voters at least at the district level.

Demanding strict action against the returning officers for their alleged involvement in coming up with such "fraudulent" electoral rolls, the Congress leaders also said the EC should not deploy them on poll duty in the future.

"The officers, who produce the second corrected list, should also give an affidavit or a certificate, along with the correct list," Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said.

The leaders also pointed out that a 40-per cent rise in the number of voters in the state, as against a 24-per cent rise in the population, was "inconceivable and incalculable" and requested the EC to look into the matter.

In February this year, the Congress party had complained to the EC about discrepancies in Madhya Pradesh's voters' list and asked it to take necessary steps for ensuring free and fair elections.

OneIndia News (with PTI inputs)Congress likely to hold CWC meet next week, ambiguity over party polls to end

Prashant Kishor to Congress: No quick fix solutions to party's deep-rooted problems

Congress to hold Kisan Nyay' rally in Varanasi on Sunday

Congress councillor from Amritsar shot dead

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

A sitting municipal councillor from the Congress party was shot dead by two masked men on a motorcycle in Amritsar this evening, a senior police official said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Jagmohan Singh said Gurdeep Pehalwan was attacked when he was watching wrestling at the stadium in Goal Bagh area.

The two attackers fire seven rounds on the councillor from point-blank range and fled.

Pehalwan was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed.

DCP Singh said the police suspect old enmity between Pehalwan and gangster Jaggu Bhagwan Puria to be the reason behind the attack. Puria is lodged in Amritsar Central Jail.

Pehalwan was the councillor of ward number 50, which falls under Amritsar West constituency represented by Education Minister O P Soni.

Soni visited the hospital after learning about the attack.

The attack happened at a time when the security in the city has been stepped up in the wake of the anniversary of Operation Bluestar on June 6.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 11:10 [IST]Re-polling ordered for Faridabad booth in which man rushes to EVM when a woman was casting vote

Gruesome: 5 year old raped, murdered, stuffed inside container in Faridabad

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

A five-year-old girl was kidnapped, brutally raped and stabbed to death allegedly by a man who used to work at her father's tent house in Asaoti village in Haryana's Palwal district.

The accused, identified as Virender alias Bholu, allegedly committed the heinous act on Thursday night over some old enmity with the girl's father.

"Virender was arrested and remanded in three-day police custody today. He is being interrogated," SP, Palwal, Waseem Akram said. Virender used to work at the tent house owned by the girl's father. They had a heated argument over some issue earlier.

In order to vent his anger, the accused abducted the girl and took her to his house. He then stabbed the girl in the stomach and stuffed her body inside a container to conceal the act.

When the girl did not return to her house late in the night, the family members and villagers launched a search. It was only with the help of CCTV footages of the area that they could trace the girl's body.

The details of the incident could be revealed after police interrogated Virender, the accused.

An FIR was registered in connection with the incident under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The body has been sent for post-mortem and further investigation into the case is on, police said, adding they were also probing if there were other accomplices too.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 6:28 [IST]Indrani Mukerjea discharged from hospital

India

pti-PTI

Mumbai, Jun 2: Former media executive Indrani Mukerjea, a key accused in the murder of her daughter Sheena Bora, was admitted to the J J Hospital here last night after she complained of chest pain.

She was discharged from the hospital around 7.30 pm after her test results came out normal, a senior doctor at the hospital said. She was taken back to the Byculla prison. The 46-year-old co-founder of INX media, lodged in the Byculla women's jail since her arrest in 2015, was brought to the state-run medical facility at 11.30 pm yesterday with a "history of chest pain and discomfort", S D Nanandkar, J J Hospital dean, had said earlier.

Mukerjea underwent a series of medical tests after she was admitted to the critical care unit (CCU) of the hospital, he said. "Accordingly, a clinical evaluation was done. ECG (electrocardiogram) showed mild changes (in heart rhythm), while her chest X-ray report was normal. "Her MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) test report of the neck was awaited. Her condition is not serious. Some tests related to cardiology are pending," Nanandkar had said. This was the second time in two months that Mukerjea was admitted to the hospital.

In April, Mukerjea was admitted to the hospital in a "semi-conscious" condition. She subsequently underwent a series of medical tests. The hospital authorities had then said she had an overdose of anti-depressants that were not prescribed to her. In October 2015, a few months after her arrest in the case, she was rushed to the hospital in an unconscious state. It was then suspected that she had drug overdose.

Mukerjea is facing trial for allegedly killing her daughter Sheena Bora. Bora (24) was killed and her body disposed of in a forest area in the neighbouring Raigad district in April 2012, according to the police. Mukerjea, her former husband Sanjeev Khanna and driver Shyamvar Rai were arrested for the crime which came to light in August 2015.

Rai later turned an approver (prosecution witness) in the case. Bora, Mukerjea's daughter from an earlier relationship, was killed over a financial dispute, the Central Bureau of Investigation, which is probing the case, said.

The agency later arrested Mukerjea's husband Peter Mukerjea, a former media baron, for allegedly being part of the murder conspiracy. The high-profile case, which has attracted a lot of media attention, was initially handled by the Mumbai Police and later transferred to the CBI.

PTIJats accuse BJP-led Haryana government of betraying community

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

Jat community members in Haryana threatened to oppose programmes attended by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and his ministers for not implementing quota in government jobs and education and not withdrawing cases filed in connection with the 2016 quota stir.

At a Jat Mahasabha organised in Jassia village in Rohtak district, the All-India Jat Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti announced that it will hold dharnas from August 16 wherever Khattar or his ministers attend public programmes in the state.

"We will oppose each of their programmes until our demands are met. A resolution has been passed today in this regard," Samiti president Yashpal Malik said.

"If the prime minister holds any political rally in Haryana, we will oppose that too," Malik, who is spearheading the campaign for quota for Jats, said.

He said the government has time till August 16 to meet their demands.

Malik said the Jat community will organise 'Bhaichara Sammelans' with other sections of society including Dalits and farmers from June 15 in villages and blocks in the state.

The Jat leader accused the BJP-led Haryana government of "betraying" the community by not honouring the promises made to them.

The Jat Mahasabha was organised in the wake of the state government's submission in the Punjab and Haryana High Court last month that it would not withdraw cases related to the 2016 Jat agitation.

The government had given permission for the withdrawal of 407 cases.

A total of 2,100 cases pertaining to arson and violence were registered in connection with the February 2016 agitation. Thirty people died and several were injured during the agitation.

In another resolution passed during the rally today, Jats will make "injustice" to the community an issue during the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

For the Mahasabha today, Rohtak police had tightened security. Check posts were erected across the district and the rally participants were not allowed to enter the Rohtak city.

In February this year, Jats had threatened to disrupt BJP chief Amit Shah's rally in Jind.

They were later pacified by government representatives, including chief minister Khattar, with assurance, according to Jat leaders, that the state government would withdraw all cases registered in connection with the 2016 quota agitation.

Jats have been demanding quota in jobs and educational institutions, withdrawal of all cases registered against community members and suitable compensation to those injured in the 2016 stir.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 11:45 [IST]Kerala couple leave baby on Church doorstep with a kiss

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

A man was on Saturday arrested for abandoning his newborn baby in a church in Edappally, police said.

The two-day old's parents were traced from Wadakancherry in Thrissur. The father of the baby will be charged under various sections of IPC and Juvenile Justice Act, police said.

CCTV footage aired by television channels and circulated on social media showed a couple leaving the child in the premises of St George Forane Church on Friday evening. The security staff of the church noticed the child at around 8.30 pm and immediately alerted the police.

In the CCTV footage, the couple along with another child, is seen walking into the church premises around 8:15 pm with the baby wrapped in an orange sheet. The father kisses the baby on its forehead before carefully placing the infant on the ground.

Police said the exact reason for the couple to take such a step would be known only after a detailed interrogation of the father. The baby was admitted to a private hospital immediately after the incident. Hospital sources said the infant was healthy.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 8:23 [IST]'A permanent memory': Uncollected ashes of COVID-19 victims used to develop park in Bhopal

MP Board Class 10 result 2021 to be declared on July 14: Where to check

MP: Dancing uncle now brand ambassador of Vidisha's civic body

India

oi-Madhuri

Sanjeev Srivastava, an assistant professor at Bhopal's Bhabha Engineering Research Institute has set internet on fire with his video dancing on a number from 1987 Govinda-starrer "Khudgarz". Two of his dance videos from a wedding recently went viral on social media and news channels since Thursday evening.

Stunned by his overnight fame, the 46-year-old 'uncle dancer' has now been appointed the brand ambassador of Vidisha Municipal Corporation in Madhya Pradesh.

In one of the videos, he was seen dancing on 'Aap Ke Aa Jaane se' from 1987 movie Khudgarz, while in the other he danced on 'Chadhti Jawani'.

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had taken to Twitter to praise Srivastavas dancing skills performance.

The chief minister said, "Professor Shri Sanjeev Shrivastav ji, who has been working in Bhopal, has created massive sensation over the internet in the whole of India. Believe it or not, there is something special in the water of Madhya Pradesh."

It is learnt that the video was shot on May 12 during the ladies sangeet of Srivastava's brother-in-law in Gwalior.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 7:46 [IST]NIA makes second arrest in Nagrota terror attack case

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

The National Investigation Agency has arrested a second person in connection with the Nagrota attack which killed seven soldiers. Tariq Ahmed Dar, aged 34 was arrested by the NIA based on the disclosure made by Muneer-ul Hassan Qadri who was arrested earlier.

The NIA says that Tariq a timber dealer from Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir had assisted the Pakistani terrorists of the Jaish-e-Mohammad in carrying out the attack.

His revelations corroborate disclosures made by the previously arrested accused Muneer of Kupwara who had revealed that he along with other valley-based operatives were in touch with the JeM leadership in Pakistan and had received a freshly infiltrated group of three Pakistani terrorists a day before the attack.

They subsequently stayed at a hotel in Jammu and then left the attackers at Nagrota outside the Army camp late at night and proceeded to the Kashmir valley.

NIA officials tells OneIndia that the accused was arrested with active assistance of the J&K police.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 6:06 [IST]'If Congress isn't doing anything, we can't be sitting ducks': TMC attacks grand old party

Political murders laced with terrorism: The trouble in West Bengal and Kerala

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Back in the month of January 2017, the residence of BJP leader Krishna Bhattacharya in Uttarapura was bombed by workers of the Trinamool Congress. The same month TMC workers had attacked the BJP's office in Kolkata.

The recent Panchayat elections witnessed a bloody fight. Now two BJP workers have been found dead under mysterious circumstances and the party has called them political murders.

West Bengal like Kerala has the dubious distinction of having a large number of political murders. The politics is bloody and the rise of any party is often met with such responses. In both states the BJP has been trying to make inroads and the ruling party in both states have looked the other way when it came to such political murders.

The National Crime Records Bureau which had released a report in 2014 says that Bengal tops the chart when it comes to political murders. The state had recorded 26 political murders in 2013, which is more than 25 per cent of the 101 cases across the country. In 2012, Bengal was at the third position, but claimed its way to the top in the next year.

On Saturday, the body of another man was found hanging from a power transmission tower in West Bengal's Purulia district, with the BJP claiming he was a party worker and Union minister Prakash Javadekar alleging that it was "political murder".

The incident comes days after the body of another man, Trilochon Mahato (20), who the party said was a member of its youth wing, was found hanging from a tree in Balarampur village of Purulia district.

The BJP alleged the deaths were "political murders" and demanded a CBI inquiry into the two incidents, even as the West Bengal government transferred Purulia Superintendent of Police Joy Biswas. He has been replaced by Akash Magharia.

The alleged killings have triggered another round of face-off between the TMC and the BJP, which were embroiled in a bitter slugfest during the panchayat elections last month.

Party president Amit Shah attacked West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee in the wake of the alleged "political murders".

Kumar's death outraged locals who protested outside the Balarampur police station, demanding immediate arrest of the culprits and removal of the officer-in-charge.

A note found near Mahato's body read he was "punished for working for the BJP" during the recent panchayat polls. However, the police did not recover any such note in Kumar's case.

Going the Kerala way:

Between 2000 and 2016, Kannur district alone reported 69 political murders. In 2016 alone there were 7 such instances reported. In the year 2017 alone there have already been four such instances.

The data available for the past 17 years shows that there have been 160 political murders that have taken place. Most of the killings between 2000 and 2017 are due to political rivalry. During this period, Kerala witnessed the murders of 65 RSS or BJP workers. 85 CPM workers and 11 workers of the Congress-IUML were murdered between 2000 and 2017.

2017 list of political murders in Kerala:

Ezhuthan Santhosh, a 52 year old BJP worker was hacked to death at Andallur on 18 January 2017.

RSS worker Biju was murdered by alleged CPM activists at Payyanur on May 12 2017. Ananthu Ashokan, a teenager murdered in April 2017 Cherthala. 16 RSS workers were arrested although the case was not declared as a political murder.

RSS worker Rajesh was murdered on July 29 2017.

2016 list of political murders in Kerala:

Sujith, an RSS activist was killed on February 13.

CPM worker Cherikandath Raveendran, 55, was killed on 18 May 2016 at Kandyarmukku.

Dhanraj, 52 a CPM worker was stabbed at Payyanur on July 11.

C K Ramachandran an auto-rickshaw driver killed allegedly by CPM workers on July 11.

26-year-old RSS worker Bineesh was hacked to death by suspected CPM supporters on 4 September, 2016 in Kannur district.

Kuzhichalil Mohanan, 50 of the CPM was killed on 10 October 2016.

On October 12, BJP worker Ramith was killed in an attack.

Ramit's father Uthaman too had met with a similar fate in 2002.

When terrorism creeps in:

In both West Bengal as well as Kerala, political murders have been laced with an element of terrorism. Various probes conducted in Kerala have found that radical and terror elements have been behind the political killings.

The probe specifically into the Burdhwan blasts of 2014, revealed a major nexus between the political class and members of the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh. It was the same industry that was making bombs for the JMB as well the political class.

Bombs have always been a symbol of strength for the political parties in the state. The high demand for bombs has led to the opening of cottage industries across the state. Most of them are found largely in the bordering areas as it serves a dual purpose. Terrorists too have joined the bandwagon and continue to take advantage of the lax security system. Most of these cottage industries enjoy political patronage as a result of which activities in such cottage industries go undetected on purpose.

Right from a village panchayat election to a Lok Sabha polls, several political parties have used bombs as a tool to fight their opponents. In several cases, it has been found that cottage industries have been set up to make bombs.

Terror bombs meant to kill innocents has also become a thriving industry. The Burdhwan episode was a sign of this. In this case, we, however, got to see a full-fledged module from Bangladesh being set up in West Bengal.

It was not difficult for these persons to source and make the bombs considering the fact that there was already a thriving market for the same. The Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen operatives had easy access to material and this helped them make over 150 bombs. Investigations have shown that bombs are being made in illegal cottage industries in West Bengal.

There are several labour who have been roped in for the job. These are not skilled labour, but unemployed youth have been hired to prepare the bombs. These industries also have a large number of Bangladeshi illegal immigrants. Investigations show that the job of these persons is to prepare bombs and they are paid around Rs 70 per day. Their only brief is to prepare as many bombs as possible.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 9:47 [IST]Money laundering may accelerate ahead of election

Continuous bad performance of banking sector, worries

Staff Reporter :

The national economy is losing macroeconomic cohesion said the Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) at a presentation on Sunday. It also pointed at huge amount of money being laundered from the country cover of fake import business.

It fears that money laundering may further grow ahead of election. The other malice is the big budget for mega projects the CPD economists pointed out saying the cost of 1 KM road building in Bangladesh is more that what it costs in New York. Cost of mega projects are also draining money several times more than real project value.

The biggest worries are arising from the fact the external balance is rapidly deteriorating as imports bills are soaring over export earning and remittances. CPD figures shows that import cost increased by 24.4 percent over the ongoing fiscal 2017-18 as against a rise by 17.4 percent in remittance and 4.4 percent in export earnings.

Such mismatch is creating threats to macroeonomic stability, CPD said calling for remedial measures to stop fake invoicing and payment of import bills which are facilitating money laundering from the country.

CPD Distinguished Fellow Dr. Debapryia Bhattacharya highlighted the issue while making presentation on `State of the Bangladesh Economy' in FY 2017-18.

It was CPD's third reading as part of its `Independent Review of Bangladesh`s Development` presented at BRAC Centre Inn in the city.

The CPD concentrated its observation mainly on three sectors of the economy-finance and banking, capital market and external economy. The main concerns came out focusing on continued deteriorating performance of the banking sector and growing imbalance in the external trade and foreign debt.

CPD Distinguished Fellow Mustafizur Rahman said non-performing loan (NPL)

now stands at 9.5 percent in Bangladesh as against two to four percent in the East Asian countries. "The most concerning is that the bad loans are increasing rapidly and the NPL is highest in Asian region," he said.

He said the frustrating issue is that Bangladesh is not taking any effective measures in reducing the NPL while India and other countries have been continuously taking effective measures. Debapryia Bhattacharya said banking sector in Bangladesh is like an orphan in the

hands of powerful people and it needs quick remedial measures. It suggested constituting a commission to bring reforms.

CPD criticized taking costly very costly foreign loans which may become huge burden at the end. It said many mega projects being implemented with foreign debt will put up pressure on foreign exchange.

Dr. Debapryia said the country`s revenue collection will experience a deficit of about Tk 50,000 crore in the current fiscal 2017-18. He said the main challenge of the government in the coming budget will be increasing the tax-GDP ratio.

Criticising the government`s move to lower the corporate tax, the CPD said no country could be able to attract more foreign investment alone by such measures. The entire businesses environment must be simplified to achieve the goals.

It said the government should take steps to realize the revenue now stuck up in the court case over disputes on taxes. There should be steps for outside court settlement system to resolve such disputes to release the stuck-fund, said the CPD.

The think tank body also express grave concern over the government`s increasing dependence on borrowing from saving instruments like NSD.

It said due to borrowing from NSD, the government will have to pay Tk 32,000 crore as interest in the current fiscal.

The CPD observed that the saving certificates are sometimes misused as many rich people buy it for higher profit. CPD Executive Director Dr. Fahmida Khatun and Director Research Dr. Golam Moazzem were also present at the function.President Kovind rejects his first mercy plea of convict who burnt alive 7 of a family in Bihar

India

pti-PTI

New Delhi, June 3: President Ram Nath Kovind has rejected his first mercy petition of a death-row convict who had burned alive seven members of a family, including five children, over a case of buffalo theft.

The case pertains to gruesome killing of Vijendra Mahto and six of his family members by Jagat Rai in Raghopur block of Bihar's Vaishali district in 2006. Mahto had lodged a case of theft of his buffalo in September 2005 in which Rai, Wazir Rai and Ajay Rai were named as accused. The accused (now convicts) were pressuring Mahto to withdraw the case.

Rai had set on fire Mahto's house that resulted in the death of latter's wife and five children. Mahto, who had sustained serious burn injuries then, died after few months. After being convicted for the crime and being awarded the death penalty by the local court, the high court and the Supreme Court in 2013 too gave their nod for the hanging.

Rai's mercy plea was then sent to the president's secretariat. The office of the president had sought the Home Ministry's views which gave its recommendation on July 12 last year. The mercy petition (of Mahto) was rejected by the president on April 23, 2018, according to a Rashtrapati Bhavan communique.

This is the first mercy plea decided by Kovind after he became the president in July last year. There is no other mercy petition pending with the president's secretariat. Under Article 72 of the Constitution, The president shall have the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence where the sentence is a sentence of death.

PTIBusinessman in Kolkata shot at after his car was stopped by 18 men

Ragging horror in Kolkata: Student stripped, paraded naked

India

oi-Madhuri

In a shocking case of ragging in Kolkata, a student of St. Paul Cathedral Mission College, Kolkata on Sunday complained at Amherst Street Police station that he was ragged by some senior students inside the union room of the college. The incident occurred on May 17.

The student also claimed he was paraded naked. He was also threatened that the video would be circulated through social networking sites if he narrated the incident to anybody.

On May 17, the victim, who is a first year student, enquired about the expenses of the event after which he was allegedly beaten up and stripped naked by the ex-students. They allegedly recorded the whole incident and spread the video. The victim can be seen crying and trying to hide.

However, a complaint has yet to be registered even though the student attempted to end his life, but failed.Sangeetha, Vani Rani actress held for running flesh trade in Chennai

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Popular Tamil actress Sangeetha Balan has been arrested for allegedly running a prostitution ring in Chennai.

The actress who is known for her part in Sun TV's Vani Rani was reportedly involved in flesh trade in a private resort at Panayur in Chennai.

After getting information about a prostitution racket in the resort, police conducted a raid. According to the reports, several other young actresses apart from Sangeetha were reported to have been involved in prostitution at the private resort in Chennai's Panayur.

Besides Sangeetha, a person named Suresh has also been arrested. Suresh, according to a report in International Business Times, helped Sangeetha to operate the prostitution racket in Chennai. Sangeetha and Suresh, in fact, were also presented before Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court in Egmore.

Sangeetha is a well known face for Tamil audiences. The actress has been the part of few Television shows like Aval, Chellamey Annakodiyum Aindhu Pengalum and Sabitha Allies Sabapathi. Not only Television show, Sangeetha has also acted in few movies including Karuppu Roja and Tamilsevanum Thaniyar Anjalum.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 17:50 [IST]Shillong violence clash: Curfew relaxed, 500 people in Army shelter

India

oi-Madhuri

Curfew in parts of strife-torn Shillong has been relaxed for seven hours on Sunday after night-long violence where a mob burnt a shop, a house and damaged at least five vehicles besides injuring a senior police officer. The relaxation made people in 14 localities under curfew scramble for essentials and provided a window for stranded tourists to exit the Meghalaya capital.

Meanwhile, mobile internet and SMS services have been indefinitely suspended in Shillong to avoid the spread of rumours.

On Thursday night, a violent clash broke out between the police and a mob after a bus conductor was allegedly assaulted by a group of people from the Them Iew Mawlong area.

This led to the government imposing a curfew in areas under Lumdiengjri police station and Cantonment Beat House from 4 am on Friday. However, agitators violated the curfew and continued to clash with police and indulged in stone pelting.

The situation had become so grave that the Army had to conduct flag marches, and authorities had to suspend Internet services in the city to prevent the hate messages from spreading.

At least 10 people have been injured and at least eight arrested, triggering demands that the government take action against alleged illegal settlers in the area.

(with inputs)

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 14:00 [IST]Centre renames 2 prominent institutes after Sushma Swaraj on the eve of her birth anniversary

Sushma Swaraj's plane en route from India to Mauritius goes untraceable for 14 minutes

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

The VVIP aircraft "Meghdoot" carrying Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj to Mauritius lost contact with Air Traffic Control for 14 minutes on Saturday afternoon after entering the country's airspace.

The Indian Air Force flight carrying Ms Swaraj departed from Thiruvananthapuram at 2:08 pm. However, after entering the Mauritius air space, the aircraft could not contact the Male Air Traffic Control (ATC) between 4:44 pm and 4:58 pm. But by then an alarm had already been sounded, the Airports Authority of India said in a statement.

The plane was traced after the Mauritius Air Traffic Control activated INCERFA, the code word for a situation where uncertainty exists regarding the the safety of an aircraft and its occupants.

Mauritius ATC activated lNCERFA (uncertainty phase) without allowing the stipulated time period of 30 minutes to lapse from the time when aircraft last contacted ATC. This was perhaps done because the flight was carrying VIP."

The flight eventually landed safely in Male and Swaraj proceeded with her engagements including a meeting with the Prime Minister of the island nation Pravind Kumar Jugnauth.

Swaraj is on her five-day trip to South Africa from Sunday where she will meet the top leadership of the country and attend meetings of BRICS and IBSA - the two major groupings where India has been playing a key role.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 17:38 [IST]Lakhimpur violence case: MoS Ajay Mishra's son denied bail, one more sent to police custody

UP: FIR against Muzaffarpur girls' home after TISS report on sexual assault

India

oi-Madhuri

An FIR has been registered under POCSO act against the Seva Sankalp evam Vikas Samiti, the NGO located at Sahu Road under Town police station area in Muzaffarpur.

According to audit report, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS, Mumbai) revealed that minor girls children home are subjected to sexual assault.

The TISS report said many girls complained of physical abuses when its team interacted with them and recommended an inquiry and initiation of legal proceedings against the NGO.

The case has been filed under section 376, 120 B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act).

Meanwhile, the girls have been shifted from Muzaffarpur to Patna and Madhubani children home. The district child protection unit has taken the building under its control on the direction of the Social Welfare Directorate, Patna.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 12:23 [IST]BSP to fight solo in UP, Uttarakhand, no tie-up with Owaisi's AIMIM, says Mayawati

'Should not be misled': Mayawati reaches out to Brahmins before UP polls

UP orders probe into Mayawati bungalow allotment

India

oi-Madhuri

The Uttar Pradesh estate department on Saturday ordered a probe into the allotment of the 6, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, bungalow to BSP chief Mayawati in 2011 when she was the CM. However, the probe has been initiated by the department after finding anomalies in the allotment order of the posh property.

Mayawati, in her letter written to the UP CM six days ago, had confronted the eviction notice issued to her by the estate department to vacate 13A Mall Avenue.

UP estate officer Yogesh Shukla said anomalies were found in the order allotting the 6, LBS Marg bungalow to Mayawati since its dispatch number was the same as the one issued in the name of another allottee, Rekha Tanveer.

She was allotted an apartment in Dalibagh Colony. "An inquiry has been initiated," Shukla said. He said as per their records, the 13-A Mall Avenue bungalow was allotted to Mayawati.

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Story first published: Sunday, June 3, 2018, 10:10 [IST]Collapse of Kabul will go down as one of the greatest defeats in American history: Donald Trump

Thousands of terrorists might have been airlifted out of Kabul: Trump slams Biden

Never in history has withdrawal from war been handled so badly: Trump

Donald Trump suggests Robert Mueller is behind Russia probe leaks

International

pti-PTI

Washington, Jun 3: American President Donald Trump suggested that Special Counsel Robert Mueller is deliberately leaking to the press documents about his probe into possible collusion with Russia.

"There was No Collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country," Trump tweeted yesterday after the investigation passed its one-year mark last month.

"Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media? Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?"

Earlier, The New York Times published a confidential 20-page letter the American president's legal team sent to Mueller in January, along with another sent in June 2017.

In the letters, Trump's lawyers sternly oppose attempts by Mueller's office to interview him, saying "under our system of government, the president is not readily available to be interviewed." They also argue that Trump cannot be accused of obstructing justice because he has the constitutional power to end the investigation led by the Justice Department.

Mueller was appointed in May 2017 to investigate Russian efforts to tip the 2016 presidential election in Trump's favour. He has increasingly dug into evidence of alleged money laundering, fraud and obstruction of justice inside Trump's inner circle.

PTISix public banks get fresh bailout fund

Special Correspondent :

The government has approved Tk 2,000 crore fresh equity to six cash-strapped state-run banks to help meet their capital shortfall.

The equity will be made available for them from the FY 2017-18 budget for recapitalisation of banks.

Officials said the Finance Division will release the fund next week in line with a proposal made by Bank and Financial Institutions Division (BFID) under the Ministry of Finance.

When contacted, Bank and Financial Institution Division's (BFID) Senior Secretary Md. Eunusur Rahman confirmed the development. "Public banks will get fresh recapitalisation fund as per the government plan to bolster their regulatory capital," he told The New Nation on Sunday.

"We made the proposal reviewing the demands of public banks and it has been approved," he added.

Earlier, seven state-owned commercial and specialised banks such as Sonali, Janata, Rupali, BASIC, Bangladesh Krishi Bank and Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank (RAKUB) had approached the BFID for Tk 20,398 crore in government's bailouts funds because of capital shortfall caused by unbridled lending that resulted in record non-performing loans in public sector banks.

Among them, scam-hit Sonali, Janata and BASIC Bank sought Tk 11,000 crore bailout funds to meet their capital shortfall.

Md. Eunusur Rahman said, "They will get the bailout funds on strict conditions to avoid a repeat of unbridled lending. They have been asked to initiate prompt corrective measures to improve their performance that has slipped due to a pile-up of bad debt."

He said the government decides the mode of recapitalisation the state-run banks to help them meet their equity requirements and enable them to run normal business.

Officials said Sonali, Janata and Bangladesh Krishi Bank will receive Tk 400 crore each fresh recapitalisation fund from the budget cake, while BASIC will get Tk 300 crore and Rupali and Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank (RAKUB) Tk 250 crore each.

As on December 2017, the aggregate capital shortfall of Sonali Bank stood at Tk 5,397 crore, Janata Tk 1,273, Rupali Tk 1,250 and BASIC Bank Tk 2,500 crore.

Specialised banks such as Bangladesh Krishi Bank and Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank were facing capital shortfall of Tk 7,540 crore and Tk 800 crore respectively.

The government had injected Tk 10,622 crore into the coffers of the state banks, the House Building Finance Corporation, private IFIC bank and Grameen Bank between the fiscal years (FYs) 2012-13 and 2016-17.

In the period, the scam-hit BASIC Bank got the highest amount of Tk 3,390 crore.

Not only Ekramuls all killings outside law are punishable murder: Govt has no right to defend

Killing systemically without trial is inhuman and murder. Those who are guilty of murder shall not be able to save themselves for such crime of murder. It is no defence that they obeyed orders of higher authority. Nobody is above law; which does not mean the government is above law. What is most disgraceful is that our own police are killing their own people. It is a shame for the whole nation.





The fact is that the government itself is gripped by anarchy. No people's government can allow gun power to be the supreme power much above the law.





Pressed to comment on the audio clips related to Teknaf Municipality Councilor Ekramul Haque's death, the Home Minister yesterday said that they were looking into the allegations. Ekramul was shot and killed on May 26 under the government's controversial ongoing anti-drug crackdown. However, his family's claim is that security forces killed Ekramul in cold blood. The fact is that after allowing killing without trial there is nothing that the Home Minister can do by way of investigation into the murder of anybody killed by RAB or the police. In the name of ending drug trade no responsible government can end lives of the people.







Five days later, his family released four audio clips that recorded terrifying conversations between Ekramul and his daughter and wife before he died of multiple bullet injuries. The audio conversation recorded on a mobile phone also captured sounds of gunfire and groans of the dying man. Ekramul is just one of the many victims and our biggest question is can the police give back his life for his wife and children? The government may as political force do any thing wrong but the people police must not have any politics to kill even a single citizen of the country. The benefits they are enjoying are provided by the people's money. They are disciplined force and killing without trial is not police behaviour. We are a free country and the police must not behave like a colonial police unaccountable to people.





The recent nature of killing under the banner of 'gunfight' dates back to the post independence days of the first half of the 70s. Also today's RAB is strikingly similar to the erstwhile Rakkhi Bahini practicing extra-judicial killings. We don't want to return to that insecure and perilous era once again.







Such brutal idea of killing people without trial came with those who went to India. They tried to show they came back as victors " to punish us as enemies of independence. While those who went to India their patriotism should be accepted as beyond doubt. It is a terrible break of faith with our people who stayed in the country to suffer inhumanly and die helplessly. Any genuine leader of ours would have felt guilty for not keeping their brave words to be on our side and fight the Pakistan army.





We are against killing without trial because we want to find the guilty by a court of law. The idea of police justice is denial of judicial justice. It is not the rule of law that allows killing for the excuse of fighting drug trafficking.





We do not know if they are killing political or personal enemies as generally claimed.





The police cannot accept the methods of terrorists and kill people without recourse to law.





What we are witnessing right now in Bangladesh is the extreme state of lawlessness. Shootouts do nothing to cure the root causes. We must remember that with the death of alleged drug traders, law enforcers are losing valuable sources of information which could help them nab the masterminds-the drug kingpins-who are calling the shots.





The police must remain law enforcers and not to become killers isolating from the law of the country. We do not want to lose our police as protectors of life.PM opens 2nd Dharala Bridge

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina formally opening the \'Sheikh Hasina Dharala Bridge\' through video conferencing from Ganabhaban on Sunday.

UNB, Dhaka :

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinaon Sundayopened the second Dharla Bridge in Kurigram districton Sunday.

She inaugurated the bridge, named Sheikh Hasina Dharla Bridge, through a videoconference from her official residence Ganobhaban.

The 950-metre long bridge over the Dharla River has connected Fulbari upazila of Kurigram and Lalmonirhat Sadar upazila.

Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) implemented the bridge project. The construction work on the bridge started in 2014.

Some 10 lakh people of Fulbari, Nageshwari and Bhurungamari upazilas of Kurigram district will largely be benefited due to the construction of the

bridge as they now can communicate with the Rangpur divisional city in a short time.

The 9.8-metre wide bridge has 19 spans and 2.919 km of approach roads.

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said there have been massive development in the country over the last nine years as Awami League formed governments winning the 2008 and the 2014 elections.

"We've proved that a country can be developed and prosperous with the continuation of government and its sincerity," she said.

The Prime Minister asked all to discharge their duties properly.

Talking about the development of the northern region, Hasina said her government had removed 'famine' from the region after assuming power in 1996, but it staged a comeback when the BNP-Jamaat regime returned.Young jobseekers must be protected from fraudsters

Fake job advertisements in newspapers are making young job seekers fool in growing number. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of police picked up two fraudsters, including a private university student, from the capital in the recent past. Nazmul Hasan Sumon alias Mazharul and Tanvir Ahmed Jewel were arrested from Khilkhet and Dakkhin Khan areas, according to the report of a national daily.

Nazmul, a Southeast University student hailed from Rajbari's Goalundo and Tanvir from Babuganj in Barisal were arrested in a fraud case filed by Ziaul Islam and Hayat with Biman Bandar Police Station on last November 14. Around Tk 7 lakh was taken from them. Like Ziaul and Hayat, there are many who have fallen victim to advertisement in newspapers posted by such fraudsters.

We must say innocent job seekers must be protected from lucrative media advertisements. There are many ways it can be stopped. In our view, newspapers should carefully scrutinise advertisements before publishing those so that criminals cannot take undue advantage to defraud innocent people. The jobseekers should also verify any related information from the prospective employers before entering any agreement with an organisation or an individual.

But, no matter how vigilant the press is we can't escape one fact--the desperation of many of our economically deprived citizens to go abroad at any cost. This get-rich-quick mentality is what has led to many such cases of fraud. Many cases end up even worse--with people being held hostage, tortured for ransom, and in some cases, even killed. Studies have shown that it takes an average Bangladeshi worker about twice or more the amount of money to go abroad as it takes for others in the subcontinent. The mechanism for the search of jobs overseas can be made more efficient and transparent by requiring recruitment agencies to post information about jobs available on their websites. Likewise, for recruitments made by the government (for example within the framework of the G2G mechanism), information may be posted on the website of BMET.

There are many places to go for information now--we have many radios and TV channels which describe how to earn money from farming, weaving handlooms, and many other ways. Instead of looking for employment our citizens could, with the same amount of money, look for employment creation by starting businesses which create jobs.

Unfortunately our citizens are not deterred from trying for jobs abroad at any price. It is at the stage of job search that migrant workers face the highest probability being misled and exploited by agents and sub-agents, and hence, measures will be needed to protect them from such dangers.





Richwood, TX (77531)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this evening will become overcast overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 78F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening will become overcast overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 78F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph.Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.

Field Marshall Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has been sworn for a second four-year term in office as President of Egypt.

US-client El-Sisi was army chief when he overthrew Egypt's first freely elected president, Mohamed Morsi, in July 2013.

Field Marshall el-Sisi was sworn in following the so-called elections in March last when he received 96.9 percent of the votes.

Not surprisingly, the elections were criticized as a one-man show with no credible opposition. At least six other candidates pulled out, were prosecuted or jailed.

The only other opponent who ran against Sisi was little-known Mousa Mostafa Mousa, who entered the race hours before the deadline and whose party had previously endorsed the president.

According to Abdullah al-Arian, Georgetown University Assistant Professor of History, "one of Morsi's mistakes during his presidency was that he led people to assume that he'd taken the reins of the state when in fact he hadn't. He was simply put in a position to give people the idea that a real revolution had occurred. The state, meanwhile, was very much in the hands of the same people as it was under (the deposed President) Mubarak."

Air Force General Hosni Mubarak, another US-client, ruled Egypt ruthlessly for almost 30 years. He was forced to step down in February 2011 amid massive anri-government demonstrations.

Arrests and disappearances

Human-rights defenders have regularly accused (Field Marshall) el-Sisi of violating public freedoms and suppressing his opponents, who, along with vocal members of civil society, have been arrested in recent months, Al Jazeera reported Saturday, adding:

"Two of those arrested are the blogger and journalist, Wael Abbas, and Shadi Ghazali Harb, a youth leader during the 2011 revolution. Hazim Abdelazim, who has described his decision to head the youth committee of Sisi's successful 2014 presidential bid as his 'biggest mistake', has also been detained.



"The path the Sisi government took has been linear - eliminating the public sphere, or the political space has always run alongside arrests of dissidents, activists and human-rights advocates," Fadi al-Qadi, a commentator on human rights in the Middle East and North Africa, was quoted by Al Jazeera as saying.

"The truth is, no one is immune under Sisi ... these two incidents of arrests are probably meant to dismiss any thought that Sisi may tolerate certain types of dissent in Egypt - on the contrary, he does not," al-Qadi said.

Bloggers Sherif Gaber and Shady Abuzaid, known for their YouTube and Facebook videos, were also arrested this month. Last week, an Egyptian military court sentenced journalist and researcher Ismail Alexandrani to 10 years in prison. Alexandrani, an expert on armed groups in the Sinai Peninsula, was arrested in November 2015 and accused of belonging to the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood.

Egyptian Kangaroo Court jails 65 Morsi supporters up to 10 years

Field Marshall el-Sisi's sworn-in follows confirmation of harsh sentences by Egypt's top kangaroo court last month against 65 loyalists of the currently outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group over committing acts of violence in 2013 in the capital Cairo.

The jail terms were from seven to 10 years. The rulings of the Court of Cassation are final and un-appealable.

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See original here

By Dartagnan Community

The wannabe Dictator has made it official: his treachery can't be questioned:

"WASHINGTON -- President Trump's lawyers have for months quietly waged a campaign to keep the special counsel from trying to force him to answer questions in the investigation into whether he obstructed justice, asserting that he cannot be compelled to testify and arguing in a confidential letter that he could not possibly have committed obstruction because he has unfettered authority over all federal investigations."

Got that?

"In a brash assertion of presidential power, the 20-page letter -- sent to the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III, and obtained by The New York Times -- contends that the president cannot illegally obstruct any aspect of the investigation into Russia's election meddling because the Constitution empowers him to, 'if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.'"

It's harder to say which is being abused more by this circular legal sophistry, the law itself or the American people this grotesque mistake in the Oval Office is supposed to represent. One thing is crystal clear, however, and should not be lost in the reverberations of the media echo chamber: this is not the argument of someone who is innocent, but someone who is desperately trying to hide his guilt.

"Mr. Trump's broad interpretation of executive authority is novel and is likely to be tested if a court battle ensues over whether he could be ordered to answer questions. It is unclear how that fight, should the case reach that point, would play out."

It will be interesting to see how Trump's propaganda organs on Fox News and Breitbart fit this "novel" legal interpretation into their strategy for duping Trump's base. The Times notes that this ploy to characterize Trump as beyond the power of U.S. prosecution is part of a two-pronged strategy that also contemplates a media barrage by willing Russian tools like Sean Hannity and Lou Dobbs:

"The attempt to dissuade Mr. Mueller from seeking a grand jury subpoena is one of two fronts on which Mr. Trump's lawyers are fighting. In recent weeks, they have also begun a public-relations campaign to discredit the investigation and in part to pre-empt a potentially damaging special counsel report that could prompt impeachment proceedings."

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From Consortium News



Murray addressing crowd at Wilhelmshaven.

(Image by Photo by Elizabeth Murray) Details DMCA



We are possibly a more motley crew than the passengers aboard the S.S. Minnow in the old U.S. TV series Gilligan's Island: Among those who have joined us on one or more legs of the journey to Gaza as part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) are activists hailing from Spain, Israel, Norway, Malaysia, Canada (First Nations), Denmark and the United States.

Despite our diverse ages and backgrounds we have some important things in common: minds that comprehend the crimes and human rights violations being committed daily against the people of the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories; hearts that feel deeply the pain of those whose basic freedoms have been denied for 70 years; and consciences that want to find a nonviolent way to reach out to these people, right the wrongs of the Gaza blockade, and achieve a measure of justice.

Political representatives have failed repeatedly through a lack of the political and moral courage to secure justice for a people facing 70 years of sustained, brutal subjugation by a foreign power, Israel. Thus the international Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC) sails again.

This time the FFC will not attempt to deliver medical supplies or foodstuffs to the suffering people of Gaza. Past experience with previous FFC missions indicates that such materials will likely never end up in Gaza, or will arrive in spoiled or damaged condition. Instead, the Al-Awda will deliver itself -- a refurbished Norwegian fishing boat -- as a solidarity offering to the fishermen of Gaza. They are shot at and harassed on a daily basis, prevented from feeding their families, and have their fishing boats regularly seized and destroyed by Israel.

There is so much misery in Gaza that could easily be alleviated since nearly all of it is either deliberately manufactured by Israel (such as the bombing of sewage plants, the electricity grid, Gaza harbor, the undrinkable water) or is an immediate by-product of Israeli policy (widespread post-traumatic stress disorder and associated mental illnesses, a spike in the rates of cancer, once extremely rare among Palestinians).

The economic blockade, the restrictions on foodstuffs and construction materials, the travel bans, and the sealed borders are all aided and abetted by Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, an ally of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Under al-Sisi the Rafah border to Egypt -- the only non-Israeli outlet available to the Palestinians of Gaza seeking medical aid or travel abroad -- is almost always closed. These blatant violations of human rights and the Geneva Convention have occurred with the complicit wink of the U.S. and Europe, whose weapons manufacturers profit handsomely from their arms sales to Israel.

The relegation of Palestinians to a less-than-human status by Israel, in particular the inhabitants of Gaza who are perpetually locked into an open-air prison and subject to the Israeli blockade, was underscored by MIT professor Noam Chomsky after a 2012 visit to Gaza to attend an academic conference. In comments broadcast by Democracy Now on Nov. 14, 2012, Chomsky remarked:

"It's kind of amazing ... and inspiring to see people managing somehow to survive ... as essentially caged animals subject to constant, random, sadistic punishment -- only to humiliate them -- no pretext. They [the Palestinians] would like to have dignified lives, but the standard Israeli position is that they shouldn't raise their heads."

In Wilhelmshaven

During our ports of call in Germany, visitors to Al-Awda told us that many German politicians as well as ordinary Germans are reluctant to speak out against human rights abuses against Palestinians because they say that if they do, they will be branded as anti-Semitic and possibly have their lives and careers ruined by this smear.

Listening to these German citizens express their solidarity with the FFC mission in passionate, yet hushed tones, one cannot but think back to the suppression of free speech by the Communist-era East German government that was fiercely enforced by the secret police known as the Stasi. One can only deplore the practice of self-censorship that has become widespread in what is supposed to be a free and democratic, united Germany. It also underscores the powerful political pressure that Israel brings to bear on many European countries. Of course, Germany's uniquely evil treatment of Jews historically makes it only natural that Germans would be reluctant to criticize Israel.

Shortly before we departed from Wilhelmshaven, Germany, we were visited by Georg, a human rights advocate and photographer affiliated with the "Bundesverband Arbeiterfotographie." who made the 50-mile road trip from Bremen to take photos, express support and offer a generous personal donation to the Freedom Flotilla mission before rushing back to Bremen to collect his 9-year-old son from school. He said: "I rushed over as soon as I heard about you."

We also met Timo, a German trade union leader and youth organizer, who volunteered his time and talents to take care of some technical problems aboard the boat. Timo, who also hails from Bremen, spent an entire day driving around to half a dozen specialty maritime and hardware supply stores in Wilhelmshaven to help us obtain the proper parts; he then worked tirelessly until all was "shipshape." When we offered to compensate him for his time and trouble, he refused, saying: "Let this be my small contribution toward peace."

Meanwhile, the Palestinian-German community in Wilhelmshaven showered us with gifts of home-made Palestinian delicacies and serenaded us with singing, dancing and playing of the oud, a classical Palestinian stringed instrument. They thanked us for making this journey, saying they only wish they could join us and return to their original homes and villages. Their love and affection for our mission is overwhelming.

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(This article has been published in NewsBred).



Rajnath's words are lost on everyone

(Image by NewsBred) Details DMCA



In the wake of Kairana elections, and a loss in Noorpur by a whisker, Home Minister Rajnath Singh made a statement that escaped the attention of most political observers: "One has to take two steps backwards for a giant leap," he said.

Now the delusion of this "deep state" within India was understandable. After all, last four years have been a nightmare to them. The cloak of respectability has been torn off their break-India agenda. Celebrations have been few and far between. They have every right to wet beaks in their otherwise parched political landscape. But the disappointment of right wingers too seems to have drowned the import of this statement of the home minister.

An educated guess is that Rajnath Singh through his quip was hinting at a consolidation of Hindu voters in the light of Kairana reverse. He was echoing what Sujoy Ghosh so brilliantly elucidated in OpIndia. Around 15 percent who voted in the 2014 Lok Sabha and 2017 state assembly elections, stayed away from Kairana bypoll while the margin of victory for the opposition's Tabassum Begun was only 4.6 %. Impressively, no less than 77 percent of Hindus voted for BJP in Kairana. What happens when these missing 15% and the remaining Hindus do turn up in the 2019 general elections? Another impressive analysis in SwarajyaMag reasserts the impression.

Make no mistake, Hindus in Kairana would be smarting in anger. The same is the mood in Karnataka where despite 104 seats, BJP and the people of the state are watching the tragic comedy of Congress-JDS alliance. This groundswell of anger is bound to help BJP.

Rajnath Singh is known to be a man of few words. But when he says "two steps backwards," it suggests a great strategy of Hindu consolidation being put in place by the BJP. That perhaps might also explain why Gorakhpur and Phulpur weren't fiercely protected. The idea is for Hindus to be mindful that they could be overwhelmed in their own country in 2019. Not only BJP cadre and supporters, but even common Hindus must not lull themselves into a false sense of security. This heightened Hindu anxiety would only end up in consolidation for BJP.

It would be utterly foolish on opposition's part to believe Modi-Shah have been cornered. Their last four years have shown, if anything, that they invest a lot of time in strategizing and ruthlessly executing their designs. They are utterly capable of winning affections of people by a dramatic measure: It could be Ram Janmabhoomi; income-tax abolition; money in people's bank accounts or the long-pending Hindu issues of owning temples and Right To Education (RTE). Even an idiot would know that Modi-Shah, in the home run to 2019 general elections, would have an ace up their sleeves.

So while opposition has shown its card--alliance and understanding at all cost without an ideology or a Prime Ministerial candidate to project--nobody knows what aces BJP has up its sleeve. A party that went into 2014 general elections with 4 states today has 19 of them. In just four years such an expansion has come about because of BJP's skin-in-the-game. The micro-management of an election, from the local issues to booth management, nobody does better than BJP.

So when Rajnath Singh says "two steps backwards for a giant leap," opposition must stop in their tracks and ponder. They have walked into a trap and are more discredited than ever. Their game is out in the open even as they are clueless on the next move of Modi-Shah duo. They would have nowhere to run but to their doom, come 2019 general elections.Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.



dice

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The idea of randomly choosing members of a national legislature or parliament sounds weird. But then look at what we are getting now with conventional elections! The whole system seems designed to select people of marginal honesty, who seek public office to satisfy a craving for power and/or to profit financially. Ordinary people, if given power temporarily and the time to study the issues, with assistants to aid them, are likely to behave in a conscientious manner. It is generally accepted that people on juries generally do a good job. This approach to government was successfully used over 2000 years ago in Greece.

Text of article is at

1.cs.columbia.edu/~unger/articles/sortition.htmlFor all intents and purposes, this article could be entitled "Untouchables Beyond Justice" or better yet, "Profiles in Cowardice," At any rate, it begins with the Iraq War, clearly the most idiotic act of the new millennium. The inept and completely deranged George W. Bush administration, totally beyond the reach of human reason, was a lost cause, but Thomas Friedman and much of the staff at the New York Times might have benefited from at least a year of intense psychotherapy after actively promoting the useless act of a prepubescent president. I may never forgive them. Meanwhile, in truth, no politician backing this abomination should ever have been elected to or trusted in any political position!

The abject cowardice of journalists, politicians and the blatant stupidity of so many of my usually intelligent colleagues I found to be disgusting and unforgivable. The abject feeling of "my country right or wrong" represents the exact same excuse used by Nazi enablers in the era of World War II. Not only is the excuse as lame now as it was then, but it is this same attitude that led to the election of a confirmed and despicable coward to the presidency, one who not only actively and repeatedly shirked military responsibility, but who has seen fit to disregard and even scorn both live military heroes and even those killed in defense of their country. While I cannot criticize those who voted for our current president considering that I have already dismissed his opponent's qualification, I do condemn the cowardly schlemiels who continue to support a man who is clearly a fascist willing to destroy virtually all of our democratic institutions in order to exponentially expand his personal fortune and his craven desire for absolute power.

If the George W. Bush administration represented the worst of our country's policies, imperialism, blind stupidity, Wall Street and criminal banks' unchained, uncontrolled politically and religiously motivated prosecutions and perversion of the election system, the Barack Obama experiment, with its overwhelming promise, represented a fizzling firecracker. Yes, in a brief, but unfortunately mismanaged attempt to introduce quality medical coverage to all U.S. citizens, the Affordable Care Act did at least break through the previously impenetrable barrier of national healthcare. However, by not incorporating any Republican Congressional ideas (even if Republicans would not have voted for them), any residual political capital was totally wasted. Meanwhile Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid, both somewhat intelligent, but short-sighted highly partisan Democratic leaders, failed to unite the country when they had the opportunity. Who cares if carrying medical insurance across state lines really lowers rates or not, and it wouldn't have hurt if a few bucks thrown into a high-risk fund had been shifted from Medicaid expansion funds.

Actually, the big question is how on earth did the ACA become the signature accomplishment of the Obama presidency? Not that with all of its shortfalls, the ACA is nonetheless a major accomplishment! However, resurrecting an economy from the ashes of the massive conflagration ignited by the blatant stupidity, evil, and utter incompetence of a prepubescent president's administration, one that after purposely starting massive needles wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, proceeded to lower taxes for its fetid political donors, ought to rank as the most significant achievement since victory in World War II! And yet, with his own chronic lack of political guts and foresight, in bailing out the banks, Mr. Obama omitted the caveats necessary to insure their help in the administration of vital sanctions to dangerous foreign governments such as Iran, North Korea, and eventually Russia. Nor did he exercise any pressure on the Federal Reserve to control its squandering of trillions of U.S. taxpayer dollars given freely to crooked European banks to be distributed to brand-new oligarchs instead of their governments and citizens. Instead, Harry Reid had to spend hundreds of billions of dollars in bribes to a dozen or so traitors in the other "House" to pass any bill at all to save the economy. What a tribute to the scum we Americans were so happy to elect even before the advent of the rotting "Freedom Carcass" and the catatonic "zombie apocalypse" they so desperately look forward to.

Meanwhile, the fight for legitimate prices for pharmaceuticals was quickly abandoned by Mr. Obama as was the obvious need to incrementally cut corporate taxes in a bipartisan move, hopefully tying the cuts to some sort of wage increases: more political capital into the garbage disposal. Reticent to use the bully pulpit for the good of the people, he also failed to expose the shameful Bush "Retarded Religionist, Born Again Last Night and Never Should have Been Born in the First Place" Injustice Department. Instead, he even appointed as attorney general his uncle, Eric (better known as "Tom") Holder, chief Democratic Bush sympathizer and defender, so instrumental in insuring the election of "W" in 2000 by refusing to arrest Jeb Bush and accomplice Katherine Harris for purposely "forging" the names of thousands of innocent, mostly black voters onto a bogus list of felons, thereby depriving them of the right to vote. Holder also conveniently neglected to investigate Ohio's dirty secretary of state, Ken Blackwell, and Karl Rove and their involvement in fixing the 2004 presidential election as well as the convenient death of primary witness, RNC IT expert Michael Connell, and the equally convenient "misplacement" of his incriminating blackberry.

In addition, Mr. Obama's "fearless" attorney general, as well as his two cowardly U.S. Supreme Court picks, were apparently all handsomely rewarded for not stirring up trouble by passing on virtually every one of the "W" judicial atrocities, including the blatant framing of Don Siegelman by totally "unethical" so-called "Christian" federal prosecutors in Alabama. Unfortunately, in today's political arena the two terms are most often synonymous. Except for the Sojourners and Jimmy Carter and a few others, far too many evangelicals seem to have abandoned the real Jesus for some inferior deity who spends most of his time sitting on a jeweled throne with strange little faerie creatures twittering in the air around him while he judges people by the disgusting concept of "grace." In other words, after calculating how much praise an individual has heaped upon Him, he flips a coin to decide his victim's fate, just like any mentally ill human king would do.

Meanwhile, just how hypocritical are Trump fans? Is there any one of the miscreant's supporters who really believes that our fearless leader, after admitting that he gets faint at the site of blood, would actually run into the Parkman High School building to save those children from a gunman? Running one's mouth is not exactly the same as running a government, nor is using one's thumbs instead of one's brain to tweet unsubstantiated "factoids" by pseudo journalists on Fox News. Does anyone seriously believe that this proudly and equally prepubescent ignorant, pompous fool with his five-second attention span could possibly have dug us out of the enormous economic hole created by "W"? How, by picking the same worthless institutions and "human" beings (a loose term, I assure you) who created the problems to begin with to solve them and simply resurrecting the same policies that almost destroyed us? You bet! That's the plan.

Don't worry, when things go bad again, we can blame immigrants and if that doesn't fly, we can blame American workers for wanting higher wages. If that doesn't work, we can privatize Medicare and Social Security, shifting the colossal "reinsurance" burdens to the federal government, thus guaranteeing the insurance companies literally trillions of dollars in absolutely FREE money, courtesy of every single U.S. citizen, be they an intellectually challenged Republican/Democrat or simply the blatantly mathematically challenged Paul Ryan who never learned to count without his fingers and toes or EPA chief Pruitt who never learned how to read or write, requiring oil- and gas-industry lobbyists to ghost write all of his letters and statements. Yes, folks, we're in good hands and most of all, we deserve the scum for whom we so often vote.

Al Finkelstein, 5/25/18Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.

From The Hill

President Trump, it has been said, is his own best communications director. It should also be said, he may be the best communications director for Democrats.

Trump, even more than Richard Nixon, plays the politics of the enemy list. Virtually every day, Trump chooses an enemy to attack. His attacks dominate the news. This politics of enemy lists creates a growing anger and fear among voters who are disturbed by what damage this brand of politics will do to America if it continues unchecked.

For every voter in the Trump base who is motivated to vote by these attacks, even more voters who disapprove of Trump are motivated to vote.

Trump has always sought to undermine the investigation of Robert Mueller and his special counsel team. For many months, he used surrogates to spearhead the attack against Mueller, especially Republicans on the House Intelligence Committee, while his former lawyers claimed he was cooperating with the investigation. Those days are over. Those lawyers are gone.

Now, Trump has put Mueller atop his enemies list. He is waging a war of political destruction against Mueller. He has deployed Rudy Giuliani, who was cheered by New Yorkers after the terror attack in September 2001 and was recently loudly booed at a New York Yankees game, to execute a crude strategy in his name.

Giuliani is an advertisement for obstruction of justice. He speaks relentlessly and aggressively to discredit and politically destroy the Mueller investigation.

One must wonder what Emmet Flood, a highly regarded attorney at a highly prestigious law firm who has joined the Trump legal team, thinks about this legal strategy of Trump and Giuliani. Will Flood be the next Trump attorney to resign?

Trump is waging a war against Mueller. When he charges that he is being victimized by a "Criminal Deep State" conspiracy, he is waging war against the Justice Department and the FBI. When he virtually stalks and hounds Attorney General Jeff Sessions, he is waging war against Sessions. When he berates and insults Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, he is waging war against him.

Among the vast number of voters who have made Trump extraordinarily unpopular, these vicious attacks against bastions of American justice that Trump treats as enemies create anger, alarm and outrage.

They believe, in large numbers, that something has gone terribly wrong with America under Trump. They fear, very deeply, that something very dangerous is happening in America under Trump and Republicans who back him.

They will vote in November in huge numbers to create the check and balance against Trump that they crave and believe is not being offered by Republicans in Congress.

There is a second group whose votes are moved by Trump's war against Mueller, the Justice Department and the FBI and his transparent abuse of presidential pardons. These voters are not in the liberal or Democratic base. They are political independents and moderate Republicans, many of whom live in suburbs and small towns. Some of whom voted for Trump to "drain the swamp."

These voters ask themselves: Is Trump acting like an innocent man or a guilty man? On Election Day, a large number of them will conclude that Trump is acting like a guilty man. These voters, in large numbers, will be motivated to vote for Democrats to drain the swamp they now believe is caused by Trump and his GOP backers in Congress.

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BY THIS WEEKEND, Reality Winner, the former NSA contractor accused of releasing national security information to the media, will have been in jail for more than a full year without being convicted of a crime. Her trial, originally scheduled for October 2017, has been pushed back multiple times and is now on the docket for October 2018. It's anyone's guess whether the case will drag on even longer.

Something curious has happened along the way: Winner's case fell out of the public consciousness. National media pays scant attention to her plight, and many advocates from the left to the center of the political spectrum -- all of whom should have ample reason to loudly protest the many injustices in her case -- have been largely silent.

Winner, unfortunately, is caught between two camps -- a whistleblower without a constituency -- even as her alleged transgression proved a pivotal moment in the hot-burning media story of the investigation into potential attempts by Russia to interfere in the 2016 election.

Winner's arrest-- for leaking a document that media reports have said was the subject of a June 5, 2017, story at The Intercept -- was the opening salvo of the Trump administration's promised crackdown on leaks. (The Intercept has stated it has no knowledge of the source's identity; its parent company, First Look Media, has contributed to her legal defense through its Press Freedom Defense Fund.) Winner received wide coverage at the time of her arrest in June 2017. Since then, however, the coverage has fallen off sharply, even though media organizations should have an incentive to extensively cover, and even protest, such leak prosecutions as an affront to press freedom.

Some local media in Georgia -- not least the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the leading large paper near the site of the trial -- have been regularly coveringthe case. But, aside from a profile in New York Magazine, there has been virtually no substantial national coverage of Winner's case. At most, Winner might garner mentions in occasional brief write-ups when the judge rules against her defense team, which has happened with virtually every major motion Winner's lawyers have put forward.

Click Here to Read Whole ArticleCongress Switchboard: 202-224-3121

"Rob Kall's Bottom Up is a revaluation of values, not the empty mouthing of the word 'democracy' that is so common, but the application of belief in popular wisdom to every aspect of life. Actually believing that the views of more people is better, means a new way of thinking about the world that is democratic, feminist, localist, populist, and radically richer than the elitist perspectives that are more common even in the parts of the world that shout the word 'democracy' the most. Here we come to understand both the power of small groups and the upsides to internet crowd sourcing, the potential of nonviolent movements and ways in which the past has not been what we supposed. Don't just read this book; get lots of people to read and talk about it."



David Swanson, host, Talk Nation Radio, author of War No More: The Case for Abolition.Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.

It undercuts the veracity of Trump Jr.'s testimony to Congress.

On Saturday afternoon, the New York Times revealed a 20-page private letter that President Donald Trump's lawyers had sent special counsel Robert Mueller in January in which they contended that it was impossible for Trump to commit obstruction of justice because he, as president, has authority over all federal investigations and the power to do whatever he wants with them. The letter is a brazen declaration of executive power, and legal experts immediately challenged its premises and assertions. The missive also raised a possible problem for Donald Trump Jr.: it suggested he had not told Congress the whole truth -- and might have even misled the body -- regarding the cover story he put out when it was revealed that during the campaign he, Jared Kushner, and Paul Manafort had met with a Russian emissary after being told she would share with them dirt on Hillary Clinton, as part of a Kremlin operation to help Trump.

At issue is the statement that Trump Jr. released, when news broke last July of that June 9, 2016, meeting in Trump Tower between the senior Trump advisers and Natalia Veselnitskaya, the Russian lawyer supposedly dispatched by a Kremlin official. Trump Jr.'s first statement claimed the meeting had been about Russian adoption policy. (American adoptions of Russian children had been curtailed by Moscow in response to the implementation of the Magnitsky Act, which imposed sanctions on Russian officials suspected of human rights abuses.) That statement did not mention that the meeting had been set up by the Trump campaign in the expectation it would receive from Moscow negative information on Clinton. And Mueller's investigation has been looking at the elder Trump's involvement in concocting that cover story. Earlier this year, the Times reported that Trump had supervised the writing of the statement and had insisted that it claim that the meeting only was about Russian adoptions.Quicklink Not Found

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To see if the quicklink was renamed or re-published, please click here.Progressive Content Not Found

Sometimes, authors delete their progressive content after publishing.



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A January 29th letter from the U.S. president's lawyer Marc Kasowitz claims that the president cannot possibly obstruct justice, can refuse a subpoena to testify, and cannot be indicted while president. The letter also seems to claim that he can pardon himself for his crimes. The hope that such a reading misinterpreted the letter was pretty well smashed when the same president's lawyer Rudy Giuliani said this weekend that the Constitution says the president can pardon himself.

Here's what the Constitution actually says: "[H]e shall have power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment." The lunacy of self-pardoning does not come up in the Constitution. Nor does the royalist notion that a president cannot obstruct justice. If that were accepted, Nixon could not have been removed from office by an imminent impeachment that carefully avoided his most serious crimes in Southeast Asia; the stupid idea that a coverup is worse than a crime could not have been turned into common sense; Nixon would have pardoned himself; and any president would be able to de facto obstruct and preempt any investigation desired.

There are, I think, two basic theories as to how we reached this point in the Trumperial Presidency. One is the mainstream acceptable notion that Vladimir Putin did it to us. The other is the fringe, fact-based understanding that the gradual slide in this direction over the past couple of centuries took some major leaps forward in recent decades. George W. Bush obstructed justice in the case of Valerie Plame Wilson and was not impeached or otherwise held accountable. The Bush and Obama administrations refused to comply with numerous subpoenas, without consequence or nefarious Russian involvement. Among those who refused to comply with Congressional subpoenas, never mind requests, while George W. Bush was president were: the Department of Justice, the Secretary of State ("not inclined" was Condi's explanation), the Vice President (who preemptively announced he would probably not comply with such silliness and didn't), the White House Counsel, the White House Chief of Staff, the White House Political Director, the White House Deputy Chief of Staff, the White House Deputy Political Director, and the White House Office of Management and Budget.

As with many other elements of the imperial presidency, Obama continued the policy of complying with subpoenas only as desired. This fit with his practice of rewriting laws with signing statements in the Bushian manner, refusing to prosecute torture, murder, warrantless spying, or lawless imprisonment, expanding secrecy, expanding legal arguments for ever-greater executive powers, developing a whole new system of lawless murder by robotic airplane, launching war without Congressional authorization, etc.

There are two powers Congress has over a president. One is inherent contempt. One is impeachment.

When people refuse to comply with Congressional subpoenas these days, Congress sometimes "holds them in contempt." But it doesn't actually hold them. In fact it expects the Justice Department to do the enforcement of subpoenas -- even those addressed to the Justice Department. Needless to say, this does not work.

In decades gone by, Congress used to make use of a power called inherent contempt, which meant the power to preserve its own existence by compelling witnesses to cooperate and holding them in jail on Capitol Hill until they saw fit. No more. Now "inherent contempt" is just the feeling that bubbles up in the stomach of your average American when a member of Congress walks by. The House or the Senate or, in fact, any committee thereof, has the power, according to tradition and to rulings of the U.S. Supreme Court, to instruct the Sergeant at Arms of the House or Senate to imprison anyone being charged with contempt of Congress or being thereby punished for contempt of Congress. The difficulty of finding a place to imprison them has been easily solved in a variety of ways and could be again quite quickly.

During the latter part of the 19th Century and the early part of the 20th, the common jail of the District of Columbia was routinely used by the Sergeants at Arms of the House and Senate. While the jail did not belong to Congress, an arrangement was made to use it, housing the occasional "contumacious witness" in the same building with the general DC prison population. The District Jail is described in this 1897 New York Times article. This 1934 article from Time Magazine discusses the Senate's use of the District Jail to punish contempt in both 1860 and 1934. In 1872 a Congressional committee discussed the problem of the DC jail not being controlled by Congress, but apparently concluded that the Sergeant at Arms could keep control of a prisoner in that jail. In other instances, including that same case, a prisoner of Congress was summoned to appear by a court, and Congress instructed the Sergeant at Arms to transport the prisoner to the court to explain the situation but not to release the prisoner from his control.

Congress has not always made use of outside jails. In 1868 this measure was approved: "Resolved, That Rooms A and B, opposite the room of the solicitor of the Court of Claims, in the Capitol, be, and are hereby, assigned as guardroom and office of the Capitol police and are for that purpose placed under charge of the Sergeant-at-arms of the House with power to fit the same up for purpose specified". Resolved, That said Wooley, for his repeated contempt of the authority of the House, be kept until otherwise ordered by the House in close confinement in the guardroom of the Capitol police by the Sergeant-at-Arms until said Wooley shall fully answer the questions above recited, and all questions put to him by said committee in relation to the subject of the investigations with which the committee is charged, and that meanwhile no person shall communicate with said Wooley, in writing or verbally, except upon the order of the Speaker."

The U.S. Capitol and the House and Senate office buildings are full of rooms that could easily be transformed into guard rooms, and are in fact almost certainly full of guard rooms already. DC is chock full of jails, several of them quite close to the Capitol. In fact, the Capitol Police make extensive and frequent use of them under an ongoing understanding with the custodians of the jails. The Capitol Police also hold people, at least temporarily, in a building very near the Senate office buildings.

Reviewing the early history of Congressional contempt reveals a mixture of offenses, including refusing to answer questions (on various topics), refusing to produce documents, failing to appear, etc., but also libeling Congress, assaulting a Congress member, beating a congress member with a cane, even Congress members themselves beating up a senator, and the case of a drunken citizen applauding inappropriately. While use of police force has disappeared as a response to recalcitrant witnesses, it is still routinely used for people who applaud inappropriately.

In the early years of this country inherent contempt was not distinguished as "inherent". It was simply called contempt. But it was enforced exclusively by Congress, just as contempt of a court was enforced by a court, just as contempt of a state legislature or an earlier colonial legislature or the British Parliament was enforced by the very same body. While the Constitution did not mention contempt, it was the consensus of Congress, later supported by multiple U.S. Supreme Court rulings, that Congress had the inherent right to this form of "self-protection." This was understood most often as protection from disruptions and assaults, but also as protection from insult and from the erosion of Congressional power through the refusal to comply with requests or subpoenas. The record shows that a citation of contempt by Congress, or rather a warrant to arrest someone charged with contempt in order to put him or her on trial, does not have to be preceded by a subpoena.

Some years back, Common Cause advocated inherent contempt with this statement: "Under the inherent contempt power, the House Sergeant-at-Arms has the authority to take Karl Rove into custody and bring him to the House where his contempt case can be tried, presumably, by a standing or select committee. If he is found by the House to be in Contempt of Congress, he can be imprisoned for an amount of time determined by the House (not to exceed the term of the 110th Congress which ends the beginning of January 2009) or until he agrees to testify. The Supreme Court has recognized the power of the House to enforce its own subpoenas through the inherent contempt provision, stating that without it, Congress 'would be exposed to every indignity and interruption that rudeness, caprice or even conspiracy may mediate against it.' Before Congress asked the Justice Department to try contempt cases on its behalf, the inherent contempt power was used more than 85 times between 1795 and 1934, mostly to compel testimony and documents."

Even the Washington Post agrees: "Both chambers also have an 'inherent contempt' power, allowing either body to hold its own trials and even jail those found in defiance of Congress. Although widely used during the 19th century, the power has not been invoked since 1934 and Democratic lawmakers have not displayed an appetite for reviving the practice."

While the House must release all prisoners at the end of each two-year Congress (and has traditionally done so), the Senate -- or a committee thereof -- need not and can hold them into the next Congress. Deferring to the full House or Senate is part of the tradition of statutory contempt, not inherent contempt. It has been solidly established that inherent contempt resides in a full house or a committee.

So, what is statutory contempt? Well, in 1857 Congress passed a law criminalizing contempt of Congress (and the maximum jail time is 12 months). It did so in large part precisely because of the need to free prisoners at the end of each Congress, but also because of the time-consuming nature of putting people on trial for contempt, something that was commonly done by committee, with the accused often permitted legal counsel and witnesses. Given what Congress spends its precious time on these days, who wouldn't wish for it to have back its inherent contempt power? Well, our wish is granted. Congress never lost that power, and in fact continued to exercise it up through 1934 since when it has simply chosen not to. Inherent contempt is a power that resides in what the U.S. Constitution created to be the most powerful branch of the government. It cannot be overruled in court, and it cannot be vetoed or pardoned. It can also not be endlessly delayed by court appeals.

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In terms of volume, the global decorative laminates market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period 2017-2025. According to a new report published by Persistence Market Research titled Decorative Laminates Market: Global Industry Analysis (2012-2016) and Forecast (2017-2025), manufacturers of decorative laminates are focusing on the introduction of new application specific product offerings in order to better address the specific requirements of customers.Moreover, market players are found to be channelizing efforts towards strengthening their distribution channels along with focusing on direct sales. Among the regional markets, the Asia Pacific market is expected to account for a substantial value share in the global decorative laminates market owing to the rising construction activities in the residential sector across the region. Global sales of decorative laminates is estimated to be valued at about US$ 64 Bn in 2017 and this is projected to increase to about US$ 95 Bn by the end of 2025.Request to Sample of Report @Global Decorative Laminates Market: Factors Boosting Revenue GrowthHousing market recovery and new construction projects mushrooming across the globeA rapidly growing ready-to-assemble furniture marketGrowing demand for laminate flooring in the global marketRising per capita expenditure on furniture and flooringIncreasing expenditure on construction activities across the globeGrowing urbanization leading to new construction activities particularly in the residential sectorGlobal Decorative Laminates Market: Forecast by Product TypeOn the basis of product type, the global market for decorative laminates is segmented into low pressure laminates, high pressure laminates, and edge banding. Low pressure laminates is further sub-segmented into paper and films & foils. In terms of value, the low pressure laminates segment is expected to lose 100 BPS in 2025 as compared to 2017 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period.The paper sub-segment is expected to gain 170 BPS in 2025 as compared to 2017 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 5.2% over the forecast period. The low pressure laminates segment is expected to remain lucrative and dominate global market demand during the forecast period.Global Decorative Laminates Market: Forecast by ApplicationApplication segments include furniture and cabinets, flooring, wall panel and others. The furniture & cabinets and flooring segments are expected to dominate the global market owing to an anticipated steady growth in demand for decorative laminates across these end use applications.Global Decorative Laminates Market: Forecast by RegionAsia Pacific, Europe and North America regions are projected to be the major contributors to the growth of the global decorative laminates market throughout the forecast period. Modernization of infrastructure and growth in construction and infrastructure industry are the two factors anticipated to drive market demand for decorative laminates in the Asia Pacific region, while rapid growth in the construction sector in the U.S.  especially in the housing sector  is anticipated to bolster the demand for decorative laminates in North America. The Asia Pacific decorative laminates market is projected to hold more than half the global market value share by 2025.Request for Table of Contents @Global Decorative Laminates Market: Key PlayersFletcher Building Limited, Omnova Solution Inc., Greenlam Industries Ltd., Merino Group, Illinois Tool Works, Inc., Abet Laminati S.P.A., Archidply Industries Ltd., Fundermax GmbH, Panolam Industries International, Inc., and Stylam Industries Ltd. are some of the key players profiled in this report.About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:Protein Expression Market to Observe Strong Development by 2020

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Dear Carolyn:

My boss loves me and has really helped with my career. One little issue: She can't say my name correctly. It's a common name but she butchers it; think pronouncing Nina like Ny-nah instead of Nee-nah.

She has heard me and others pronounce my name Nee-nah hundreds of times, but she still says Ny-nah. Sometimes, she'll get the link and say Nee-nah once but then goes back to Ny-nah.

I wouldn't care except it is becoming embarrassing when she is in meetings talking about all the great things Ny-nah does and people look at me with a quizzical look. I feel like it looks bad on me that I haven't corrected her. But, she clearly hears people say Nee-nah and still says Ny-nah. For the record, she also says Moto-sicle instead of Motorcycle even though every other person in the USA says Motorcycle. What do I do??

-- Mispronounced

I think this reflects on her, not you, and therefore you can let it go.

As annoying as it is.

For what it's worth, I think what it reflects on her is mild. Presumably we've all known people here and there, bright and competent ones, who struggle with pronunciations, or use malapropisms, or can't spell to save their lives. This is personal for you so it seems unusual, but overall it's just not that uncommon for people to have a kink in their verbal wiring. Even people without any noticeable language glitch can run across their white whale, the name they Just Can't Get Right -- often for a sympathetic reason, like a childhood bestie who spelled her name Nee-nah but pronounced it Ny-nah and wore a brain-to-tongue pathway that can't be unworn.

Signed, the fourth of four sisters who in elementary school was often called every sister's name but her own.

Re: Mispronounced:

A colleague of mine has a similar problem with names. We have a colleague whose name is missing the typical consonant, as in Ronal instead of Ronald. Another that is spelled with a consonant that is pronounced atypically -- spelled with an "f," but pronounced like a "v." I've given up on correcting the pronunciation. It's just a verbal tic and nothing to get worked up over.

-- Given Up



Columnist Carolyn Hax dishes out advice daily.

Email Carolyn at

Read the Email Carolyn at tellme@washpost.com , follow her on Facebook or chat with her online at noon Eastern time each Friday at www.washingtonpost.com Read the daily Carolyn Hax columns at https://www.seattlepi.com/lifestyle/advice/

Re: Mispronounced:

I have an unusual name that is frequently mistaken for a common one. In high school I had the same math teacher for two and a half years, including my senior year. He wrote me a glowing college recommendation, but referred to me throughout by the common name that wasn't mine. It was the only time I've cared, because I thought the admissions folks might question how genuine his rec was.

Fortunately he showed it to me ahead of time (not standard practice) and we fixed it. He was glad I spoke up.

So, basically, if there is a real reason why your boss's mispronunciation could harm you, have a gentle talk with her and make it about that reason. Otherwise, no reason to let it bother you.

-- Unusual Name

Fair enough. Just don't expect to stick what hasn't ever stuck.Petoskey volleyball adds another win over Gaylord in threeGet the SC business stories that matter.

Our newsletter catches you up with all the business stories that are shaping Charleston and South Carolina every Monday and Thursday at noon. Get ahead with us - it's free.Art Form and Theatre Concepts presents "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow Is Not Enuf" at Footlight Players Theatre for Piccolo Spoleto Festival.Joseph Cranney is an investigative reporter in Columbia, with a focus on government corruption and injustices in the criminal legal system. He can be reached securely by Proton mail at jcranney@prontonmail.com or on Signal at 215-285-9083.Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.New cables being installed in the James B. Edwards Bridge over the Wando River are made up of a sheath filled with concrete and 19 strands of steel wire, which was being removed Wednesday from these spools in preparation for assembly. Wade Spees/StaffColumbia/Myrtle Beach Managing Editor

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Mr. Saraki is to be questioned over his alleged relationship with suspects arrested following the bank robbery in Offa, Kwara State, police spokesperson, Jimoh Moshood, said on Sunday in a statement.

Consequently, Mr. Saraki has been summoned to appear before a police team in Abuja for interrogation, Mr. Moshood said.

Mr. Moshood said at least five of the 22 suspects arrested in connection to the April 5 attack on five banks in Offa, which also led to the killing of at least 17 people, including nine police officers, confessed their allegiance to Mr. Saraki.

Mr. Moshoods statement read in part: Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki is being invited by the Nigeria Police Force to report to the Force Intelligence Response Team office at Guzape, Abuja to answer to the allegations levelled against him from the confessions of the Five (5) Gang Leaders, namely; Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibukunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salawudeen Azeez, Niyi Ogundiran and some of the other Seventeen (17) suspects arrested for direct involvement and active participation in the Offa Bank Robbery and the gruesome killing of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons which includes (some pregnant women and nine (9) Police personnel).

The announcement came three weeks after the police transferred some criminal suspects on an unrelated matter to Abuja.

Mr Saraki raised alarm at the time, saying the police were plotting to implicate him.

The police, however, denied the allegations, warning the top lawmaker to desist from jeopardising an ongoing criminal investigation.

READ FULL STATEMENT BY THE POLICE BELOW.

Offa Armed Robbery: Police Invite Senate President Saraki

The investigation into the Offa Bank Robbery and gruesome killings of more than THIRTY THREE (33) Innocent persons in Offa, Kwara State on the 5th April, 2018 directed by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim K. Idris, NPM, mni, has made significant progress, successes and more revelations have been recorded. The Gang Leaders and some of the principal suspects arrested for their active participation in the robbery and the killing of innocent persons have made confessional statements admitting to the various criminal roles they and their sponsors played in this dastard and heinous crime

The Five (5) gang leaders namely; Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibukunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salawudeen Azeez, Niyi Ogundiran and some of the other Seventeen (17) suspects arrested for direct involvement and active participation in the Offa Bank Robbery and the gruesome killing of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons which includes (some pregnant women and nine (9) Police personnel) admitted, confessed and volunteered statements that they were political thugs of the Senate President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Bukola Saraki and the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Alh. Abdulfatah Ahmed.

The arrests of the above mentioned Five (5) Gang Leaders and seventeen (17) others were made possible after the arrest of two principal suspects (Kunle Ogunleye aka Arrow 35yrs and Michael Adikwu an Ex-Convict) whose pictures captured by CCTV in one of the Banks during the Banks robbery were circulated to the media and the public. The two (2) principal suspects confessed to be among the suspects led by the five (5) gang leaders listed in paragraph 2 above to carry out the Offa Banks Robbery, the attack on the Divisional Police Headquarters, Offa and the killings of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons on the 5th of April, 2018.

During interrogation, the five (5) gang leaders mentioned in paragraph 2 further confessed and volunteered statements that they carried out the Bank Robberies, the attack on the Divisional Police Headquarters in Offa and the killings of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons during the robbery of the following six (6) banks (i) First Bank Offa (ii) Guarantee Trust Bank Offa (iii) ECO Bank Offa (iv) Zenith Bank Offa (v) Union Bank Offa (vi) Ibolo Micro Finance Bank Offa and (vii) the Divisional Police Headquarters, Offa on 5th April, 2018.

Millions of Naira from the Banks and Twenty One (21) AK47 Rifles belonging to the Nigeria Police Force in the Armoury of the Police Divisional Headquarters, Offa were admitted to have been carted away by the Five (5) gang leaders and the other Seventeen (17) principal suspects during the Banks robbery.

The Five (5) gang leaders confessed and volunteered statements to the Police investigators, giving a clear account of how they planned and carried out the Banks robbery operation in Offa, the attack on the Police Division in Offa and how they killed the THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons during the robbery.

The Five (5) gang leaders further confessed during investigation that they are political thugs under the name Youth Liberation Movement a.k.a Good Boys admitted and confessed to have been sponsored with firearms, money and operational vehicles by the Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki and the Governor of Kwara State, Alh. Abdulfatah Ahmed.

In the course of discreet investigation into the confessions of these five (5) gang leaders and the other seventeen (17) principal suspects, a Lexus jeep GX-300 (Ash Colour) with a sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony used by the gang leader (Ayoade Akinnibosun M 37Yrs) during the bank robbery and the killing of the THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons was taken to Government House, Ilorin on 16th May, 2018 where the sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony was removed before another plate number (Reg. No. Kwara, KMA 143 RM) registered in the name of Ayoade AKinnibosun the Overall Commander of the Offa Bank Robbery was then attached to the vehicle to cover up the identity of the said vehicle. The exhibit vehicle was subsequently recovered from the premises of the Min. of Environmental and Forestry in Ilorin, Kwara State. While the sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony removed from the vehicle was recovered from one Adeola Omiyale who drove the said Lexus Jeep to Government House, Ilorin immediately after the Bank Robbery.

The Personal Assistant (Political) to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Alabi Olalekan, who is privy to information that the Police is looking for the lexus Jeep as an exhibit used in the Offa Bank Robbery and the killings of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons directed one Adeola Omiyale to relocate the Lexus Jeep to Government House, Ilorin. The PA (Political) is currently in Police custody and has made useful statement assisting the Police in further investigation into the case. A revolver pistol and pump action gun were recovered by the Police Investigation Team from the Personal Assistant (Political) to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Alabi Olalekans Farm where he directed his brother to hide them after his arrest by the Police.

In order to conceal evidence, the Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Yusuf Abdulwahab who has been arrested and taken into Police custody, arranged the removal of the sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony from the exhibit vehicle and also registered the exhibit Lexus Jeep used in the Offa Bank Robbery and the killings of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons in the name of Ayoade AKinnibosun, the overall Gang Commander of the Offa Bank Robbery while the Ayoade AKinnibosun was already in Police custody for more than six (6) days before the registration of the vehicle.

Investigation is ongoing and effort is being intensified to arrest other suspects still at large. All suspects involved will be arraigned in court for prosecution on completion of investigation.

Meanwhile, the Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki is being invited by the Nigeria Police Force to report to the Force Intelligence Response Team office at Guzape, Abuja to answer to the allegations levelled against him from the confessions of the Five (5) Gang Leaders, namely; Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibukunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salawudeen Azeez, Niyi Ogundiran and some of the other Seventeen (17) suspects arrested for direct involvement and active participation in the Offa Bank Robbery and the gruesome killing of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons which includes (some pregnant women and nine (9) Police personnel).

The Nigeria Police Force will continue to ensure that the rule of law prevails in every case under Police investigation and every offender is brought to justice.

 Twenty Two (22) Suspects now in Police Custody.

 Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki is being invited to report to the Police to answer allegations indicting him from confessions of Five (5) Gang leaders arrested for active participation in Offa Bank Robbery and Killings of THIRTY THREE (33) Innocent persons.

SUSPECTS

i. Ayoade Akinnibosun a.k.a AY M 37Yrs  Gang Leader (Coordinated the Killings) From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State.

ii. Ibukunle Ogunleye M 36Yrs  Gang Leader, Killed Two (2) Persons. From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State

iii. Adeola Abraham M 35Yrs  Gang Leader, Killed Five (5) Persons. From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State.

iv. Salawudeen Azeez M 49Yrs  Gang Leader, Killed Two (2) Persons. From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State.

v. Niyi Ogundiran M 37Yrs  Gang Leader, Killed Two (2) Persons (Latest Confession). From Oro, Irepodun LGA, Kwara State.

vi. Michael Adikwu M 30Yrs  Sectional Gang Leader, Killed Twenty Two (22) Persons, mostly at the Police Station.

vii. Kabiru Afolabi M 26Yrs  Principal Suspect

viii. Omoseni Kassim M 28Yrs  Principal Suspect

ix. Kayode Opadokun M 35Yrs  Principal Suspect

x. Kazeem Abdulrasheed M 36Yrs  Principal Suspect

xi.. Azeez Abdullahi M 27Yrs  Principal Suspect

xii. Adewale Popoola M 22Yrs  Principal Suspect

xiii. Adetoyese Muftau M 23Yrs  Principal Suspect

xiv. Alexander Reuben M 39Yrs  Principal Suspect

xv. Richard Buba Terry M 23Yrs  Principal Suspect

xvi. Peter Jasper Kuunfa M 23Yrs  Principal Suspect

xvii. Ikechukwu Ebuka Nnaji M 29Yrs  Principal Suspect

xviii. Moses Godwin M 28Yrs  Principal Suspect

xix. Adeola omiyale M 38Yrs. From Isanlu Isin Town, Isin LGA, Kwara State.

xx. Femi Idowu M 34Yrs

xxi. Alabi Olalekan M 49Yrs-PA Political to Executive Governor, Kwara State

xxii. Yusuf Abdulwahab M 58Yrs Chief of Staff to Executive Governor, Kwara State

EXHIBITS

i. Two (2) AK47 Rifles

ii. Two (2) Barrette Pistols

iii. One (1) Pump Action Rifle

iv. One (1) Revolver Pistol  In Police Custody in Ilorin

v. Lexus RX300 Jeep with Reg. No. Kwara, KMA 143 RM belonging to Ayoade Akinnibosun (Gang Leader)  Used for the Bank Robbery

vi. Mercedes Benz  Compressor with Reg.. No. Lagos LT496 KJA belonging to Ayoade Akinnibosun (Gang Leader)  Used for the Bank Robbery

vii. One (1) Toyota Prado Jeep with Reg. No. 19KWGH belonging to the PA Political to the Executive Governor, Kwara State  In Police Custody in Ilorin

viii. One (1) Toyota Camry Saloon Car with Reg. No. LRN 481 FE  In Police Custody in Ilorin

ix. The Cash Sum of Six Hundred Thousand Naira (N600,000.00)  In Police Custody in Ilorin

x. Four (4) Phones of victims recovered

xi. One (1) Sticker plate number with inscription SARAKI Kwara, State of Harmony

ACP JIMOH MOSHOOD

FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

FORCE HEADQUARTERS

ABUJAPresident Muhammadu Buhari on Friday said he had no objections to any plan by the police to arrest Senate President Bukola Saraki over a string of murder cases in Kwara State, PREMIUM TIMES has learnt.

The president received Inspector-General Ibrahim Idris at the State House on Friday afternoon, during which he was told of at least 20 murders allegedly linked to Mr Saraki in his home state, according to multiple sources briefed of the meeting.

Sources said the police chief arrived at the State House with a cornucopia of homicide investigation documents relating to Mr Saraki. The top lawmaker could be arrested any day from now following the presidents position that the law should run its course insofar as detectives have sufficient facts to file charges.

Already, the police have declared Mr Saraki a person of interest in the deadly robbery incident in Offa, the second-largest settlement in Kwara State. The police said at least 17 persons, including nine police officers, were killed and five banks raided in the April 5 attack.

The police said the death toll from the robbery has risen steadily to 33 as at last week. Twenty 22 suspects, including a dismissed police sergeant, have been announced arrested.

Mr Saraki was amongst the first set of leaders to condemn the attack and called for a sweeping investigation and prosecution of all suspects.

In a statement on Sunday, police spokesperson, Jimoh Moshood, said at least five of the suspects arrested in the robbery admitted and confessed to have been sponsored with firearms, money and operational vehicles by Mr Saraki and Abdulfatah Ahmed, the state governor.

While parading the suspects on Sunday afternoon, Mr Moshood identified one of them as Ayoade Akinnibosun, a 37 years old resident of the state and the overall leader of the armed gang. His vehicle was allegedly one of those used in the robbery. A number plate allegedly registered in Mr Akinnibosuns name superimposed on a sticker number plate which had SARAKI boldly written on it.

Amongst top Kwara government officials named in the robbery were Yusuf Abdulwahab, the chief of staff to the governor, and the environment commissioner.

The police said Mr Abdulwahab, 58, had been taken into custody, but it was not immediately clear whether it was in connection to the robbery. Some local news reports out of Kwara said Mr Abdulwahab was arrested on fraud charges unrelated to the robbery two days ago.

Mr Sakari has been asked to turn himself in at the police intelligence department in Guzape, Abuja. No date was specified for the summon. The Senate President could be arrested if he fails to turn himself in as demanded by the police, especially as he enjoys no immunity from prosecution.

But Mr Ahmed, whose position as governor accords him absolute immunity from criminal charges, has denied the police claims against him.

In a statement to PREMIUM TIMES Monday afternoon, Mr Ahmed said the police allegation that he armed and funded suspects for political thuggery or for any other activity was false and unfounded.

The governor said he had never been involved in or encouraged thuggery or any other form of criminality. He said the state government provided funds for youth in the state for small businesses; but neither him nor the state government should be held responsible for how the youth use such funds.

On his part, it was not immediately clear whether the Senate President will honour the invitation. His spokesperson, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Sunday afternoon did not return PREMIUM TIMES telephone calls and text messages seeking comments about the police invitation and Mr Buharis approval.

Presidential spokespersons, Femi Adesina and Garba Shehu, did not return multiple requests for comments. Neither did Mr Moshood answer enquiries about Mr Idris visit to the State House and the invitation to Mr Saraki.

The disclosure that Mr Saraki had been implicated in murder cases comes three weeks after an open confrontation played out between the police and the top lawmaker.

But the confrontation was over separate criminal suspects arrested in connection to multiple gang killings the state over the past two years. The police abruptly moved the suspects to Abuja after the were arrested in Kwara and charges were being prepared against them over there.

On May 16, the day the police transferred the suspects, Mr Saraki alerted the nation of an alleged plan by Mr Idris and his police team to implicate him in criminal matters.

The top lawmaker told the Senate plenary that Mr Ahmed informed him the suspects were being transferred to Abuja to ease the alleged sinister plot by the police.

The police fiercely rejected the claim in a statement the same day, reprimanding Mr Saraki for his conduct and warning to desist from compromising an ongoing criminal investigation.

Judicial authorities in Kwara asked the police to return the suspects to the state for trial because their charges had already been prepared, a demand that hit a brick wall with the police.

There were initial reports that the suspects, some of whom PREMIUM TIMES later found were suspected cultists, confessed they were sponsored by Mr Saraki, but the Kwara government swiftly debunked the claims, insisting that the suspects did not indict anyone.

Neither the 22 suspects arrested in the Offa robbery nor the murder suspects in cultist clashes have been charged to court. The police earlier stated that they would charge all the suspects upon conclusion of preliminary investigations.

It was not immediately clear how the police arrived at the 20 murders reportedly linked to Mr Saraki when they confirmed 33 deaths in the Offa robbery incident alone. But his arrest, notwithstanding the severity, could prove politically toxic for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), said political analyst, Sola Olubanjo.

When Mr Saraki first alleged attempt to frame him up on May 16, the Senate constituted a nine-member emissary to appeal to Mr Buhari to prevail on Mr Idris to relax criminal allegations against the top lawmaker.

President Muhammadu Buhari

Mr Saraki has also been leading a pack of politicians who allege marginalisation within the APC. The politicians, under the so-called nPDP, hold individual grudges, which range from alleged marginalisation over the past three years to their future standing within the ruling party.

Last week, the members met with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the State House, but details of their discussion were not immediately disclosed. Mr Buhari was not a part of the meeting, but there was optimism amongst the nPDP members that they would still meet the president.

You have a ruling party that is facing a general election in less than a year away and its Number One is fighting its Number Three, Mr Olubanjo said of Mr Buhari and Mr Saraki, who is generally seen as the third most-powerful personality in the country, coming behind the vice president. The president is putting the party and his own political future in a critical situation.

I am not trying to defend criminality, the analyst said. But if we are to be objective in analysing how the police have handled this matter, we would see clearly that they have nothing against the Senate leader but only on a mission to destroy him by all means.

Bolaji Abdullahi, the national spokesperson for the APC, did not immediately return PREMIUM TIMES calls seeking comments about the political fallout of Mr Sarakis run-in with federal authorities.

A media consultant for the party who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES said he would not be able to immediately quantify how devastating it would be for the APC if Mr Saraki is arrested.

I would rather tell you that IGP Idris did not make such request to the president on Friday, said Ayo Akanji, who frequently visits the State House as a media consultant to the administration. Even if he did, the president did not approve it.

Arresting the Senate President could thwart the ongoing reconciliation efforts and that may not be good for the party, Mr Akanji added.

If Mr Saraki turns himself in and is charged, it would be another criminal charge since becoming Senate President in June 2015. He had been previously docked at the Code of Conduct Tribunal for false and anticipatory declaration of assets. He was discharged and acquitted on all 18 counts, but the Court of Appeal upheld all but two of the charges and returned them to the tribunal.The Senate President, Bukola Saraki, on Sunday declared that he was willing to honour the invitation of the police, once he formally receives it.

Mr Saraki also denied that he has any links to any of the robbery suspects arrested for their roles in the Offa bank robbery. The robbery caused the death of about 33 people including police officers.

The Nigeria Police earlier on Sunday said some of the arrested Offa robbery suspects confessed that Mr Saraki and Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, were their sponsors.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier published Mr Ahmeds denial of any links to the arrested suspects.

Sources at the Presidential Villa also told PREMIUM TIMES Mr Idris got President Muhammadu Buharis nod to arrest Mr Saraki on Friday after the police chief presented evidence of the senate presidents culpability to the president.

Presidential and police spokespersons have refused to speak on Fridays meeting held before the Jumaat service.

In his statement Sunday night signed by his spokesperson, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Mr Saraki said being linked to the Offa robbery suspects is a plot concocted to embarrass him.

Read Mr Sarakis full statement below.

The attention of the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has been drawn to a story circulating online and apparently derived from a Press Conference addressed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Moshood Jimoh, linking him (Saraki) to the Offa robbery.

Dr. Saraki will want the entire public to disregard this claim as a baseless allegation and another ploy by the Police to implicate him by all means. Let it be known that there is no way I could have been associated with armed robbery against my people.

When the Offa robbery incident happened, I was the first top public official to pay a visit to the place and right there in the palace of the traditional ruler, I put a call through to this same Mr. Ibrahim Idris, the IGP, requesting him to make certain specific security arrangements as demanded by the people.

Members of the public will remember that on May 16, 2018, I alerted the Senate about the information passed on to me by my State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatai Ahmed, over a plot by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Idris, to frame me up by getting some suspected cultists arrested in Ilorin to implicate me. It is believed that the timely leakage of the plot in that case aborted the use of the suspected cultists to implicate me. Now, it is the Offa bank robbery suspects that are about to be used.

This plot is concocted to embarrass me and, in the mind of the IGP, it is his own response after his refusal to honour the invitation by the National Assembly, headed me, for him to come and offer explanations on the rampant killings and violence across the country.

Like the earlier one, this frame-up will also fail as I hereby state categorically that I have no link with any band of criminals.

As a person who has utmost respect for the rule of law and all constitutional institutions, when the invitation from the Police is formally extended to me, I will be ready to honour it without any delay.

It is however sad that this abuse of the criminal investigation process aimed at intimidating and over-overawing the legislature, thereby obstructing it from doing its work, is a big threat to our democracy , the Senate President stated.The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sent an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari urging him to use his leadership position to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, SAN, and/or appropriate anti-corruption agencies to without delay investigate the alleged payment of N17 billion to the National Assembly as election expenses of its members to pass the 2015 budget, and if there is relevant and sufficient admissible evidence, prosecute anyone suspected to be involved.

The organisation also urged the president to instruct the Attorney General and/or appropriate anti-corruption agencies to publish the report of any such investigation including the names of anyone that may have benefited from the public funds, and to ensure the recovery of proceeds of corruption.

The organisation said it would institute legal proceedings to compel your government to act in the public interest if these steps are not taken within 14 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter.

A former finance minister under President Goodluck Jonathan government Mrs Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala had alleged on page 80 of her book titled Fighting corruption is dangerous, that N17 billion was forced into the budget for election expenses of members of the National Assembly with the agreement of its leadership. The funds became the price to pay to have the 2015 budget passed.

But in the letter dated June 1 and signed by SERAP deputy director Timothy Adewale the organisation said, The allegation of budgeting N17 billion as election expenses of lawmakers suggests a fundamental breach of article 15 of the UN Convention against Corruption, which Nigeria has ratified. Using public funds as election expenses of lawmakers is contrary to the convention, which prohibits bribery and requires the authorities to ensure proper management of public affairs and public funds.

According to the organization, The illicit or improper nature of the election expenses is buttressed by the fact that the election of any lawmaker is a benefit to him/her and not a matter of public interest or legitimate public spending, and implicitly amount to an abuse of legislative powers for private gain.

The organisation said: Allowing lawmakers to enjoy illicit benefits is an arbitrary or unjust exercise of executive functions. Facilitating N17 billion as election expenses has undercut access of millions of Nigerians to public services, as the funds could have been legitimately spent on services such as health, education, electricity supply or public transportation that those with few resources are dependent upon.

The statement read in part: The required elements of the offence of bribery are those of promising, offering or giving something to a public official, such as the alleged N17 billion for election expenses of lawmakers. The allegation that the members of the executive allowed the National Assembly to have their way on the N17 billion also suggests giving the lawmakers an undue advantage to get the 2015 budget passed. The undue advantage or bribe also seemed linked to the official duties of lawmakers to induce the passing of the budget.

SERAP notes that the alleged N17 billion bribe has increased attention to the growing lack of transparency and accountability of the National Assembly, and the corresponding loss of trust and faith by Nigerians in the budgeting process and disillusionment in their lawmakers.

Investigating the allegation, identifying those suspected to be involved and ensuring that they are promptly brought to justice as well as ensuring recovery of any proceeds of corruption would help address the crisis of integrity in the National Assembly and contribute to improving public trust as well as promote access of Nigerians to an honest public service.

The ultimate object of any government is to promote good governance and the greatest happiness of the greatest number. This means stopping arbitrariness in the budgeting process, and in the use of public funds as well as replacing privilege with transparency and accountability that characterize a democratic society.

SERAP is concerned that the allegation of budgeting N17 billion for election expenses of lawmakers if proven would amount to gross violations of law, abuse of power, and bribery, and indeed, undermining the law-making and budgeting process. We urge your government to use this case as an opportunity to demonstrate its willingness to comprehensively address the endemic flaws and corruption in the budgeting process.

We note that the Attorney General is a defender of public interest and has the powers under Section 174(1) of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), to institute and undertake criminal proceedings against anyone suspected to be responsible for acts of corruption.President Muhammadu Buhari has paid tribute to the former President of the Court of Appeal, Mustapha Akanbi, describing him as a man whose greatest asset in life was his enviable integrity and incorruptibility.

As the eminent jurist is laid to rest following his demise on Sunday morning in Ilorin, Kwara State, the president believes that Mr Akanbi will be long remembered for his enormous contributions in bringing credibility and respectability to the countrys judiciary.

The president notes that the death of the pioneer chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) is a colossal loss not only to the Nigerian judiciary, but the country as a whole.

According to the president, being respected by the people for your honesty and patriotism is the best legacy a man can leave behind.

In a country where corruption is perceived as fashionable, Akanbi stood out as a remarkable man who put personal integrity and selflessness before the desire for money outside his legitimate income.

The president affirms that Justice Akanbis greatest achievement was leaving the public service with his integrity intact and untainted, noting that throughout his distinguished career in the judiciary and public service, he resisted the defeatist mindset that if you cant beat them, join them.

Great men like Akanbi didnt believe in joining evil because it was popular or supported by the majority, the president said.

President Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to Mr Akanbis family, the government and people of Kwara State and the entire Ilorin Emirate.

The president prays that Almighty Allah will forgive the gentle soul of the deceased and reward his remarkable good deeds with Aljanna (paradise).In the early hours of Sunday, a former President of the Court of Appeal and pioneer chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Mustapha Akanbi, died.

He died in his hometown of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

Aged 85, Mr Akanbi was until his death a respected opinion moulder, anti-corruotion crusader and elder statesman.

Mr Akanbi served as head of the ICPC he between 2000 and 2005 during the Olusegun Obasanjo administration. He was widely reputed to be firm and incorruptible.

Early Life

Named Mustapha Adebayo Akanbi, he was born on September 11, 1932 in Accra, Ghana, where he worked as an executive officer in the Ghana Civil Service, apart from being an active member of the trade union.

Upon returning to Nigeria, Mr Akanbi earned scholarship to study law at the Institute of Administration, now Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He subsequently pursued legal studies in the United Kingdom and was called to the English Bar in 1963.

A year later in January 1964, he was called to the Nigerian Bar. In 1968, he became a Senior State Counsel after he joined the Ministry of Justice.

After setting up private practice in Kano, he was appointed a judge of the Federal Revenue Court in 1974 and in January 1977 he was elevated to the Court of Appeal Bench. In 1992 he became President of the Nigerian Court of Appeal and retired in 1999.

ICPC appointment

A year into the administration of Mr Obasanjo, he appointed Mr Akanbi pioneer chairman of the then newly established Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).

But the late jurist had a rough time at the anti-graft agency, due to the nature of the act establishing it. As of July 2005, the ICPC had charged 85 people but secured only two corruption-related convictions.

Mr Akanbi in his reaction publicly questioned the role of the government in undermining the agency at the time.

He also expressed worry about the law that hindered the agency from investigating corrupt practices dating before the creation of the ICPC.

He subsequently retired in 2005 on completion of the first term of office and in 2006, he established the Mustapha Akanbi Foundation in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The organisation was founded to focus on strengthening civil society groups, governmental agencies and private businesses to engender transparency and accountability.

In 2013, Mr Akanbis wife, Musatu Akanbi, died at an Indian hospital after a brief illness. She was aged 68.

Nigerians mourn

Meanwhile Nigerians have continued to express grief over the death of the late jurist.

President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, in his condolence message on Sunday described the death as a personal loss.

Mr Saraki in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja, described the late Mr Akanbi as an indefatigable, honest and principled jurist who upheld the fine ethics of the judicial process till he breathed his last.

I am sad that Baba (Akanbi) has left us. He was fearless, courageous and spoke truth to power during his lifetime, he said.

He was like a father to me. His death is a personal loss. Kwara State will miss him. Nigeria will miss him.

The Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, described the late elder statesman as a courageous judge who fought corruption to a standstill.

He said, Justice Mustapha Akanbi was a courageous judge who used the bench to dispense justice without fear or favour and rose to be President of Court of Appeal.

As chairman of ICPC, he fought corruption to a standstill for which we are grateful to him. His death is clearly an irredeemable loss to the country.

Ali Ahmad, speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, said late Justice Mustapha Akanbi was a source of inspiration to every Muslim, the Bar and the Bench.

Mr Ahmad, in a statement by his media aide Shuaib Abdulkadir, said the late judge was a big source of inspiration to baby lawyers in the legal profession and to a lot more people in community service.

He was very religious. We can only pray Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-janah Firdaos, he said.The Nigerian Army on Saturday said it killed 10 Boko Haram insurgents during an operation at Ngelkona in Ngala Local Government area of Borno State.

Onyema Nwachukwu, Deputy Director Public Relations Theatre Command Operation Lafiya Dole, disclosed this in a statement released in Maiduguri.

Mr Nwachukwu said that the operation was conducted by troops of 153 Task Battalion with support of the Cameroonian Defence Forces deployed in Operation Lafiya Dole at about 11:30 a.m.

The terrorists, who were mounted on horse back were overpowered by the troops in a fierce shootout, as the gallant troops killed the insurgents and captured two AK 47 rifles from them.

Other items recovered from the insurgents include one Boko Haram flag, a set of bow and arrows, two mobile handset and one Cameroonian international passport.

In a separate clearance operation, troops of 82 Task Force Battalion of Operation Lafiya Dole yesterday in a night attack routed fleeing elements of Boko Haram insurgents at Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area.

During the attack, troops killed one insurgent and recovered one AK 47 rifle, 41 rounds of locally fabricated ammunition and four Improvised Explosive Devices(IED).

The recovered IEDs have been safely defused by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, he said.

In another operational encounter, troops of 27 Task Force Battalion of Operation Lafiya Dole, on a long range fighting patrol, yesterday Friday 1st June 2018 successfully conducted a raid operation on Boko Haram camp in Yaridiri forest in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe state.

During the raid, the superior fire power of the troops forced the insurgents to flee in disarray with gunshot wounds, abandoning a huge sum of money and several other items, the colonel said.

He added that the troops also recovered three AK 47 rifle magazines, 21 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition, a motorcycle and two mobile handsets.

According tp him, the troops also recovered the N2,280,000 from the hideout.

(NAN)The Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress on Saturday dismissed the claims by the police that the Friday shooting of five of its members at the rally organised for its governorship candidate, Kayode Fayemi, in Ado Ekiti, was accidental discharge.

While blaming the police for the security lapses, the party said it has suspended electioneering campaigns until the police are able to guarantee adequate security during the campaigns.

A former member of the House of Representatives and governorship aspirant, Opeyemi Bamidele, and four others were shot at the rally by a policeman, whose intentions are yet to be fully established.

Mr Fayemi, who was standing by Mr Bamidele, narrowly escaped being hit by the bullet.

However, all the injured persons are said to be in a stable condition.

The police earlier on Saturday told journalists that the officer was not fake, but was attached to Mopol 20 in Lagos, and was on illegal duty at the rally.

The police spokesman, Caleb Ikechukwu, said a politician who hired the policeman and brought him to the rally in Ekiti had also been arrested. He refused to name the politician.

But speaking to journalists in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, the chairman of the party in the state, Jide Awe, alleged that the police were to be blamed for allowing a policeman from another state provide security at the campaign rally.

Mr Awe also blamed the police for granting the Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, the permission to hold a separate rally with commercial motorcyclists after permitting the party to hold its rally the same day.

He said the action by the police was capable of igniting crisis in the state.

Mr Awe insisted that the attack was a well contrived assassination attempt on its candidate and the hierarchy of the party.

Mr Awe stated that the party was not convinced by the claim of the police that it was a case of accidental discharge.

We raise serious doubt over police investigation claiming that it was a case of accidental discharge, he said.

The police must convince us that the policeman, who fired the shot is not fake. They claimed that he came from MOPOL 20 in Lagos. What was a policeman from Lagos doing in our rally? What was his mission and who was his principal?

We are still maintaining our stand that it was an assassination plot on our candidate, because the shooting came from a close range to where Dr. Fayemi was.

The police must get to the root of where this emanated from. Lives were involved and our people were hit, so we cant fold our arms and be watching.

That is why we are suspending our rallies pending the time the police is able to convince us that they are going to be strict with permissions for campaigns. We dont want PDP to hide under any clash campaign to unleash terror on our people,

He, however, clarified that although the party had no evidence that the Ekiti State governor was complicit, the manner in which Governor Fayose conducted himself gave room for suspicion.

Before the incident, Governor Fayose told okada riders and the people of Ikere Ekiti not to welcome Dr Fayemi to Ekiti, he explained.

When the incident occurred, the state government was the first to issue press statement reading meanings to the shooting. What was their concern about shooting in APCs rally?

All these issues prompted us to say that the PDP government was involved. Let me also clarify that we are not working at cross purposes with the police, but our approaches may be different.

Our claim was that the man who fired the shot was fake policeman and a paid agent with a mission to kill our governorship candidate and the police said he was from MOPOL 20 but on illegal duty in Ekiti.

So, what the police need now is to convince us about the veracity of their claim.The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Saturday declared Debo Ogundoyin, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the winner of the Ibarapa East State Constituency by-election in Oyo State.

Announcing the result, the returning officer, Ayodeji Omole of the University of Ibadan, said Mr Ogundoyin polled 6,277 votes to defeat Mr Olukunle Adeyemo of the All Progressives Party (APC), who came second with 4,619 votes.

Mr Omole said Adebodun Adepoju of Accord Party scored 2,859 votes while Rasheedat Oyewumi of Fresh Democratic Party garnered 33 votes.

Others were Adekemi Raheem of Hope Democratic Party, 14 votes; Grace Olarinde of Nigerian Peoples Congress, 60 votes; and Matins Adeyemo of Mega Party of Nigeria, 9 votes.

He stated that 14,332 voters were accredited and voted out of the 44,077 registered.

Total votes cast are 14,179 while valid votes are 13,871 and 308 votes were rejected, he said.

He declared Mr Ogundoyin as the winner having scored the highest votes as stipulated in the electoral law.

The by-election that was held in 140 polling units in all of the10 wards across the constituency was necessitated by the death of Michael Adeyemo, the occupant of the seat in the State House of Assembly, on April 27.

Adedeji Soyebi, the National Electoral Commissioner for Oyo, Osun and Ekiti, said the election was successful. He commended the people of the constituency for conducting themselves peacefully.

We had little issue with card readers unlike previous elections because we used enhanced smart card readers now, Mr Soyebi said.

He also commended security personnel deployed to the area for their efforts in ensuring a peaceful and violence-free exercise.

A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), who monitored the election in Eruwa and Lanlate, reports that there was heavy presence of security operatives led by Mr Abiodun Odude, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police.

Polling officials and election materials had arrived early in all polling units while accreditation and voting started on schedule in all the polling units visited.

Only the three agents of Accord, APC and PDP were present at polling units visited in Lanlate and Eruwa, although seven political parties participated in the exercise.

The turnout of voters, however, was low in Ward 6, polling units 001  005, Sango area, LA Primary school , Ward 05, polling units 001-006 as well as other polling units visited.

Hamza Adamu, the presiding officer in Ward 09, polling unit 002, Lanlate, said the exercise was peaceful and hitch-free.

Abigael Folorunsho, the PDP agent at Ward 05, unit 002, Eruwa, attributed the low turnout to the perceived likelihood of violence as being speculated.

Ms Folorunsho, however, commended INEC for providing a level playing ground for all participating political parties.

(NAN)For the New World Order, a world government is just the beginning. Once in place they can engage their plan to exterminate 80% of the world's population, while enabling the "elites" to live forever with the aid of advanced technology. For the first time, crusading filmmaker ALEX JONES reveals their secret plan for humanity's extermination: Operation ENDGAME.

Jones chronicles the history of the global elite's bloody rise to power and reveals how they have funded dictators and financed the bloodiest warscreating order out of chaos to pave the way for the first true world empire.

Watch as Jones and his team track the elusive Bilderberg Group to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III.





to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. Learn about the formation of the North America transportation control grid, which will end U.S. sovereignty forever.





Discover how the practitioners of the pseudo-science eugenics have taken control of governments worldwide as a means to carry out depopulation.





View the progress of the coming collapse of the United States and the formation of the North American Union.

Never before has a documentary assembled all the pieces of the globalists' dark agenda. Endgame's compelling look at past atrocities committed by those attempting to steer the future delivers information that the controlling media has meticulously censored for over 60 years. It fully reveals the elite's program to dominate the earth and carry out the wicked plan in all of human history.

Endgame is not conspiracy theory, it is documented fact in the elite's own words.



CHICAGO, June 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- BerGenBio ASA (OSE:BGBIO) announces that interim data from its Phase II clinical development programme with bemcentinib, a selective AXL inhibitor, was presented at a reception hosted yesterday by the company in Chicago, IL, USA. The reception, which coincides with the annual American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) meeting, provided stakeholders, including clinicians, investors, analysts and media, with interim data from the ongoing clinical trials of bemcentinib alone and in combination with standard of care drugs in multiple cancer indications. Presentations were made by key opinion leaders, clinical trial principle investigators and members of the BerGenBio team.

All materials presented at the reception are available on the BerGenBio website in the Investors / Presentations section. A conference call to discuss the presentations and updates will be held on Monday 4thJune at 8:30 AM CEST (details below).

Key Findings

Note that all Phase II trials are ongoing and results presented are preliminary and subject to change as the trials progress to completion. Updated data will be presented throughout 2018.

Bemcentinib plus KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) shows early promise in advanced lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who failed previous treatment (study BGBC008):

Tumour shrinkage was reported in 8 of 15 evaluable patients to date, including three Partial Responses (PR) and one mixed response,



Response assessment according to biomarker expression analysis available thus far:



6 of 7 PD-L1 negative patients reported clinical benefit, including 2 PRs and 2 patients with evidence of tumour shrinkage.





5 of 6 patients thus far tested for AXL expression with BerGenBio's proprietary immunohistochemistry assay, were AXL positive.





4 of 5 AXL positive patients reported clinical benefit including 1 PR and 2 patients with evidence of tumour shrinkage.





All 4 AXL positive patients reporting clinical benefit were found to be PD-L1 negative.



An acceptable safety profile of the combination was reported with only a minority of patients experiencing fully reversible adverse events.

Analysis of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients who had failed previous treatment and who were enrolled to receive bemcentinib plus KEYTRUDA (study BGBC007) showed low prevalence of AXL and PD-L1:

14 of 18 patients tested for AXL expression were AXL negative and reported no benefit.



12 of 15 patients tested for PD-L1 expression were PD-L1 negative; 6 were evaluable for efficacy with 1 reporting tumour shrinkage.

Superior response rates to bemcentinib monotherapy in relapsed/refractory (R/R) acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) could be predicted by soluble AXL (plasma sAXL) levels as determined by liquid biopsy (study BGBC003):

20 R/R AML and MDS patients who were evaluable for response were analysed for pre-treatment plasma sAXL



12 of 13 patients reporting sAXL levels below pre-defined thresholds at pre-treatment experienced clinical benefit, including 3 Complete Remissions, 3 Partial Remissions.





6 of 7 patients with sAXL above the threshold experienced a best response of progressive disease.

Bemcentinib in combination with established first-line therapies (KEYTRUDA or MEKINIST (dabrafenib) plus TAFINLAR (trametinib) in unresectable melanoma was well tolerated and showed encouraging tumour responses:

15 of 19 evaluable patients showed evidence of tumour shrinkage and to date there were 2 CRs, 8 PRs and a further 6 patients with a best overall response of stable disease.



Blood-based biomarker candidates were identified.

Bemcentinib in combination with targeted therapy TARCEVA (erlotinib) or docetaxel chemotherapy (trials BGBC004 and BGBIL005, respectively) continue to show promising activity in heavily pre-treated patients:

Part C of the BGBC004 trial of bemcentinib in combination with EGFR targeted therapy introduces bemcentinib in a first-line setting in patients who have achieved their optimum benefit from TARCEVA monotherapy. 5 of 6 evaluable patients showed evidence of tumour shrinkage including 1 PR and 1 mixed response. In parts A and B, patients who achieved an objective response continue on treatment.



3 of 7 (43%) evaluable patients in a trial combining bemcentinib and docetaxel (BGBIL005) achieved durable PRs in a disease setting where the response rate to docetaxel monotherapy is expected to be 10-20%.

BerGenBio continues to develop a Bemcentinib companion diagnostic

A standardised AXL immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay, has reported strong correlation with tumour response to bemcentinib treatment.



Blood-based biomarkers continue to report correlation with tumour response to bemcentinib treatment with particularly encouraging results in R/R AML and MDS.

Richard Godfrey, BerGenBio CEO, commented: "We are excited to present these very encouraging interim results from our broad Phase II clinical development programme in a variety of tumour types with a significant unmet medical need. These results continue to support our view that bemcentinib could become a cornerstone of future cancer therapy. This data provides further evidence of bemcentinib's activity in patients whose cancer progression is mediated by AXL. In addition, we are making good progress with our studies to identify predictive biomarkers that we anticipate may be developed as companion diagnostics for personalized therapy. We look forward to advancing these studies to completion and defining the future development strategy of bemcentinib with the greatest value for patients."

Abstracts to be presented at ASCO

Monday 4 June, 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM Central Daylight Time

Interim data from BGBC008  Poster Board: #292, Abstract 3078

Interim data from BGBC003  Poster Board: #80, Abstract 7020

To be discussed at the Poster Discussion Session. 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM

Biomarker study  Poster Board: #385, Abstract 2559

Monday 4 June, 1:15 PM  4:45 PM CDT

Interim data from BGBIL006  Poster Board: #375, Abstract 9548

The posters presented at ASCO will be made available www.bergenbio.com in the Investors / Presentations section following the sessions.

Conference call

A conference call to discuss the presentations from the reception and those to be presented at ASCO will take place on Monday 4 June 2018 at 08:30 AM CEST. Details of the call are available in the Investors section of the BerGenBio website (www.bergenbio.com). A recording of the call will be available shortly after the event at the same place. A presentation will be available at www.bergenbio.com in the section: Investors/Reports and presentations from 8:00 am CEST the same day.

About BerGenBio ASA

BerGenBio ASA is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing a pipeline of first-in-class AXL kinase inhibitors as a potential cornerstone of combination cancer therapy. The Company is a world leader in understanding the essential role of AXL kinase in mediating cancer spread, immune evasion and drug resistance in multiple aggressive solid and haematological cancers.

BerGenBio's lead product, bemcentinib (BGB324), is a selective, potent and orally bio-available small molecule AXL inhibitor in four Company sponsored Phase II clinical trials in major cancer indications, with read-outs anticipated during 2018. It is the only selective AXL inhibitor in clinical development.

The Company sponsored clinical trials are:

Bemcentinib with TARCEVA (erlotinib) in advanced EGFR mutation driven non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

Bemcentinib with KEYTRUDA in advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung, and

Bemcentinib with KEYTRUDA in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Bemcentinib as a single agent and combination therapy in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) / myeloid dysplastic syndrome (MDS)

The clinical trials combining bemcentinib with KEYTRUDA in adenocarcinoma of the lung and TNBC are conducted in collaboration with Merck & Co., Inc. (Kenilworth, NJ, USA), through a subsidiary.

In addition, a number of investigator-sponsored trials are underway, including a trial to investigate bemcentinib with either MEKINIST (trametinib) plus TAFINLAR (dabrafenib) or KEYTRUDA in advanced melanoma, as well as a trial combining bemcentinib with docetaxel in advanced NSCLC.

BerGenBio is simultaneously developing a companion diagnostic test to identify patient subpopulations most likely to benefit from treatment with bemcentinib. This will facilitate more efficient registration trials and support a precision medicine based commercialization strategy.

The Company is also developing a diversified pre-clinical pipeline of drug candidates, including BGB149, an anti-AXL monoclonal antibody.

For further information, please visit: www.bergenbio.com

KEYTRUDA is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA, TARCEVA is a registered trademark of OSI Pharmaceuticals, LLC., marketed by Roche-Genentech. TAFLINAR is a registered trademark of Novartis International AG and MEKINIST is a registered trademark of GSK plc.

Contacts

Richard Godfrey

CEO, BerGenBio ASA

+47 917 86 304

Rune Skeie, CFO, BerGenBio ASA

[email protected]

+47 917 86 513

Media Relations in Norway

Jan Petter Stiff, Crux Advisers

[email protected]

+47 995 13 891

International Media Relations

David Dible, Mark Swallow, Marine Perrier, Citigate Dewe Rogerson

[email protected]

+44 207 638 9571

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

http://news.cision.com/bergenbio-asa/r/bergenbio-provides-interim-update-on-phase-ii-clinical-programme-with-selective-oral-axl-inhibitor-b,c2539232

SOURCE BerGenBio ASA

Related Links

http://www.bergenbio.com

A date will be announced in due course for when Fiji Airways will start offering oneworld connect services and benefits (see below).

oneworld connect is the first new membership platform unveiled by oneworld since the alliance was originally announced 20 years ago.

oneworld is in discussion with other carriers interested in participating in the program, from various parts of the world including the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe.

Each oneworld connect partner will need to have a minimum of three oneworld members as its sponsors to be initiated into the program. The initial oneworld sponsors of Fiji Airways will be all four of oneworld's original founding members - American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific and Qantas. The Australian carrier will additionally mentor Fiji Airways through its oneworld connect implementation process.

American Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Qantas already code-share and have frequent flyer links with Fiji Airways. British Airways and Fiji Airways are currently discussing areas for potential bilateral cooperation.

What oneworld connect means for customers

oneworld connect partners will provide select alliance benefits to frequent flyers from any oneworld member airline travelling on their flights, with a more extensive range of benefits offered with their oneworld sponsors.

Customers with Emerald, Sapphire or Ruby status in any oneworld member airline's frequent flyer program will be able to use priority check-in desks, where available. Also, customers with Emerald or Sapphire status will be offered priority boarding.

The additional benefits offered by oneworld connect partners to customers from their oneworld sponsors and vice versa include:

Through check-in of passengers and their baggage for journeys including connections between a connect carrier and any of its one world sponsors.

carrier and any of its world sponsors. The ability to earn and redeem frequent flyer rewards, and earn frequent flyer status points, for eligible flights. (For customers from one world connect airlines, these benefits depend on the one world connect partner offering a frequent flyer programme.)

world airlines, these benefits depend on the world partner offering a frequent flyer programme.) Access to select lounges at key airports for First or Business Class passengers or those with eligible top-tier frequent flyer status.

Select other customer benefits may also be offered between oneworld connect partners and their oneworld sponsor airlines.

All oneworld connect partners will make their networks available via Global Explorer, the round-the-world fare offered by all oneworld members and select other airlines. Fiji Airways already does so.

All oneworld connect partners will be required to maintain IATA IOSA safety certification.

oneworld's regular range of services and benefits remain in place for customers flying with the alliance's full member airlines and their affiliates.

CEOs explain oneworld connect's strategic rationale

oneworld Governing Board Chairman Pekka Vauramo, CEO of Finnair, said: "In the 20 years since oneworld's conception in 1998, global airline alliances have expanded their breadth to the extent that they now account for 60 per cent of total industry revenues and capacity globally, and 70 per cent of revenues between the world's top 125 business city airports.

"With most of the world's biggest airlines already signed up, global airline alliances have reached maturity, In the future, oneworld will target as full members large airlines that have a significant presence in the alliance's prime target market, providing connections between the world's leading business centres. Meantime, oneworld connect enables us to bring together more airlines to complement the alliance's global leaders, so customers can earn rewards and feel recognised while travelling even further."

oneworld CEO Rob Gurney added: "oneworld's current network of more than 1,000 destinations in 150 plus territories offers far-reaching global coverage, but there are still some regions where we would like to strengthen our presence further. With fewer potential new candidates available to recruit based on our established membership criteria, oneworld connect enables us to link up with other airlines whose networks are relevant to a subset of our members, who cannot meet oneworld's full membership requirements at this stage or who are not interested in full membership at present.

"This enables us and them to offer our customers more services and benefits across an even wider network and strengthen our relationship going forward, with a streamlined and rapid path to full membership later on where it makes sense for all parties."

Fiji Airways CEO Andre Viljoen stated: "Fiji Airways is thrilled and honoured to be the first oneworld connect partner globally. We are delighted to link Fiji, and the South Pacific to the world's premier airline alliance and further deepen our relationships in particular with Qantas, American Airlines, British Airways and Cathay Pacific. This important step for our airline enables us to offer more services and benefits to our own customers along with the others in the oneworld family, to achieve a greater presence for our airline internationally and to build on the in-bound tourism that is so vital to our home nation and our region."

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said: "As a oneworld founding member, it is great to see the alliance evolve to bring additional benefits to more customers and expand its joint network. We've worked closely with Fiji Airways for many years and are pleased to serve as its mentor as it comes on board as the first oneworld connect partner."

American Airlines Chairman and CEO Doug Parker added: "As another oneworld founding member, American Airlines is excited to be playing our part in this latest key development for what has become the world's premier airline alliance, now making access to the South Pacific more attractive than ever."

British Airways Chairman and CEO Alex Cruz stated: "British Airways looks forward to developing links with Fiji Airways as a oneworld connect partner and sponsor, for the benefit of both our airlines, our customers and the wider oneworld community."

Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Officer Rupert Hogg concluded: "Cathay Pacific was proud to play our part in founding oneworld 20 years ago and establishing it as the leading quality alliance  and we are proud today to be playing our part again in getting this exciting new membership platform oneworld connect off the ground, as a sponsor of our long-term code-share partner Fiji Airways."

Logos, photographs and video

Logos and photographs for oneworld, oneworld connect and Fiji Airways can be downloaded in high resolution print quality format from www.oneworld-connect.com

About Fiji Airways

Fiji Airways is the flag carrier of Fiji. It serves 21 destinations in 13 countries and territories, including oneworld hubs Sydney, Hong Kong, Los Angeles and, from next month, Tokyo. Its domestic and regional subsidiary Fiji Link flies to a further nine destinations across the Fijian and neighbouring Pacific Islands nations.

Fiji Airways' inclusion in oneworld will add seven territories  its Fiji home and the neighbouring South Pacific nations of Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Samoa  and a total of nine airports to the alliance's map, strengthening oneworld's position as the leading alliance serving the South Pacific.

The group operates a fleet of 18 aircraft, including five Airbus A330s (with a sixth joining the fleet shortly), five next generation Boeing 737s plus, on its inter-island routes, eight turboprops  ATR 72 and 42s and DHC6-Twin Otters. It offers a two-class Business and Economy product on most international routes, including seats that convert to angle lie-flat beds. Fiji Airways will be the first airline in the region to receive and operate brand new 737 MAX 8, to fly on its short and medium haul routes from December, offering an excellent cabin experience with modern in-flight amenities for guests.

In 2017, the airline boarded 1.6 million customers, generating revenues of US$ 452 million and achieving profits of US$ 44 million at the operating level and US$ 38 million net. It employs more than 1,300 people. Founded in 1951, it is 51% owned by the state of Fiji, with Qantas holding 46%. Its remaining shares are held mainly by the Governments of Samoa, Tonga, Kiribati and Nauru.

About oneworld

oneworld is an alliance of some of the world's leading airlines, committed to providing the highest level of service and convenience to frequent international travellers. oneworld members include American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, LATAM Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian, S7 Airlines and SriLankan Airlines, and around 30 affiliates. As part of oneworld, these airlines:

Serve more than 1,000 airports in 150 plus territories, with some 14,000 daily departures.

Carry almost 550 million passengers a year on a combined fleet of 3,500 aircraft.

Generate more than US$ 130 billion annual revenues.

oneworld member airlines work together to deliver consistently a superior, seamless travel experience, with special privileges and rewards for frequent flyers, including earning and redeeming miles and points across the entire alliance network. Top tier cardholders (Emerald and Sapphire) enjoy access to more than 650 airport lounges and are offered extra baggage allowances. The most regular travellers (Emerald) can also use fast track security lanes at select airports.

oneworld is the "most highly prized alliance" as current holder of:

FlightStats' Airline Alliance On-Time Performance Service Award for 2017, for the fifth year running.

Business Traveller's 2017 Best Airline Alliance for the fifth year running.

Global Traveler magazine's 2017 GT Tested Reader Survey  for the eighth year in a row.

Trazees' Favorite Airline Alliance, for the second time.

Business Traveler North America's 2017 Best in Business Travel Awards, for the third consecutive year.

World Travel Awards' World's Leading Airline Alliance 2017 for the 15th year running.

Fiji Airways Executive Office

For press queries please contact:

Jessan Doton

Manager Public Relations

Fiji Airways | Nadi, Fiji

Ph: +679 673 7425; Cell: +679 9906971

[email protected]

SOURCE Fiji Airways

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DARMSTADT, Germany, June 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Not intended for UK-based media

ASCO Abstract #

Tepotinib (c-Met kinase inhibitor): 9082, 9016; M7824 (TGF- trap/anti-PD-L1): 3007, 9017, 2566; M2698 (dual p70S6k/Akt inhibitor): 2584; M6620 (ATR inhibitor): 2549; M3814 (DNA-PK):2518

Data from an ongoing Phase II tepotinib study show anti-tumor clinical activity in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations

Patients with advanced lung cancer harboring MET exon 14 mutations currently have a poor prognosis and limited treatment options

Safety data are consistent with data previously reported, with no new safety signals identified

Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company which operates its healthcare business in the U.S. and Canada as EMD Serono, today announced that the investigational, targeted therapy tepotinib[*] has shown clinical activity in an ongoing Phase II study of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations. Data from the VISION trial will be presented during the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2018 Annual Meeting in Chicago, June 1-5, 2018.

"Patients living with advanced non-small cell lung cancer harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations have limited treatment options available to them and typically face poor clinical outcomes," said investigator Enriqueta Felip, M.D., Medical Oncologist, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO). "More than half of the patients in the Phase II VISION study had an investigator-assessed confirmed response, demonstrating the potential of tepotinib and the need to further evaluate this precision medicine option."

Initial data from the Phase II VISION study of tepotinib in patients living with advanced NSCLC harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations will be presented today at ASCO during the "Lung Cancer-Non-Small Cell Metastatic" poster discussion session, 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. CDT. Treatment with tepotinib led to a confirmed complete response (CR) or confirmed partial response (PR) in 53.6% (15/28) and stable disease (SD) in 17.9% (5/28) of patients based on investigator assessment. Based on independent assessment of updated data from 28 patients (patients with at least 2 post-baseline assessments or who discontinued for any reason), 42.9% (12/28) had a PR and 21.4% (6/28) had SD.

In this ongoing study, the safety data are consistent with that observed in previous studies; no new safety signals have been identified to date. A total of 26 out of 38 patients with data available experienced treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), most commonly Grade 1/2 peripheral edema (13 patients) and diarrhea (10 patients). Seven patients reported Grade 3 TRAEs, including asymptomatic amylase increase (2 patients) and one instance each of: asthenia, generalized edema, aspartate aminotransferase increase, gamma-glutamyl transferase increase, lipase increase, hyperkalemia, dizziness and pneumonia. Four patients experienced serious TRAEs, with one instance of pneumonia, generalized edema, asthenia and dizziness, and interstitial lung disease. The VISION study is continuing to enroll patients harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations from Europe, United States and Japan.

"These data support our plans to continue with the clinical development of tepotinib in this particularly aggressive, advanced lung cancer. Patients with this form of non-small cell lung cancer currently have a poor prognosis and limited treatment options," said Luciano Rossetti, M.D., Executive Vice President, Global Head of Research & Development at the biopharma business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. "Tepotinib is an important late-stage investigational therapy and a key part of our strategic focus on innovative precision medicines."

Tepotinib, discovered in-house at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is an investigational inhibitor of the c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase. Alterations of the c-Met signaling pathway are found in various cancer types and correlate with aggressive tumor behavior and poor clinical prognosis. Tepotinib has been designed with the potential to improve outcomes in aggressive tumors that have a poor prognosis and harbor these specific mutations. In March, the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare granted SAKIGAKE 'fast-track' designation to tepotinib in patients with NSCLC harboring MET exon 14 skipping mutations.

Presentation Date Title Lead Author Abstract # / Time (CDT) Location Tepotinib Poster Sessions Can duration of response be used as a surrogate endpoint for overall survival in advanced non-small cell Boris M Sun, Jun 03, 8:00 lung cancer? Pfeiffer 9082 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Hall A Poster Discussion Tepotinib in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring MET exon 14-skipping mutations: Phase Enriqueta Sun, Jun 03, 11:30 II trial. Felip, M.D. 9016 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Arie Crown Theater

In addition to tepotinib, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is sharing data from across its oncology and immuno-oncology pipeline at ASCO 2018, including investigational immunotherapy M7824 and updates from its DNA Damage Response portfolio. Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is committed to exploring an array of targets and taking creative scientific approaches to developing novel therapies for hard-to-treat cancers.

*Tepotinib is the recommended International Nonproprietary Name (INN) for the c-Met kinase inhibitor (MSC 2156119J). Tepotinib is currently under clinical investigation and not approved for any use anywhere in the world.

About Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Globally, lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in men and the second most common in women,[1] responsible for more deaths than colon, breast and prostate cancer combined.[2] NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for 80 to 85% of all lung cancers.[3] MET exon 14 skipping mutations occur in 3-4% of lung cancers.[5],[6] The five-year survival rate for people diagnosed with lung cancer that has spread (metastasized) to other areas of the body is 1%.[4]

About Tepotinib

Tepotinib is an investigational, small-molecule inhibitor of the c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase discovered in-house at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. Alterations of the c-Met signaling pathway are found in various cancer types and correlate with aggressive tumor behavior and poor clinical prognosis. Tepotinib is currently being investigated in a Phase II study in NSCLC.

About SAKIGAKE

SAKIGAKE designation is granted by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, promoting research and development in Japan and aiming at early practical application for innovative pharmaceutical products, medical devices and regenerative medicines. SAKIGAKE designation can reduce a drug's review period down from 12 months to a target of 6 months.

The system's objective is to designate drugs that have the potential of prominent effectiveness against serious and life-threatening diseases in order to make them available to patients in Japan ahead of the rest of the world.

All Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the EMD Group Website. In case you are a resident of the USA or Canada please go to http://www.emdgroup.com/subscribe to register again for your online subscription of this service as our newly introduced geo-targeting requires new links in the email. You may later change your selection or discontinue this service.

About Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science and performance materials. Almost 53,000 employees work to further develop technologies that improve and enhance life - from biopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer or multiple sclerosis, cutting-edge systems for scientific research and production, to liquid crystals for smartphones and LCD televisions. In 2017, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, generated sales of  15.3 billion in 66 countries.

Founded in 1668, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is the world's oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company. The founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed corporate group. Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, holds the global rights to the "Merck" name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the company operates as EMD Serono, MilliporeSigma and EMD Performance Materials.

References

American Cancer Society (2015) Global facts & figures third edition. Available from: http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/content/@research/documents/document/acspc-044738.pdf. Accessed February 2018 American Cancer Society (2017) Key statistics for lung cancer. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-small-cell-lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html. Accessed February 2018 . American Cancer Society (2016) What is non-small cell lung cancer? Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-small-cell-lung-cancer/about/what-is-non-small-cell-lung-cancer.html. Accessed February 2018 . Cancer.net. Lung cancer - non-small cell: statistics. Available from: http://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/lung-cancer-non-small-cell/statistics. Accessed February 2018 . Lutterbach B et al. Lung cancer cell lines harboring MET gene amplification are dependent on Met for growth and survival. Cancer Res. (2007) 67(5):2081-8. Wong MCS, et al. Incidence and mortality of lung cancer: global trends and association with socioeconomic status. Sci. Rep. (2017) 7:143000: doi: 10.1038/s41598-017-14513-7.



Contact:

Brenda Mulligan

+978-821-5345

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/384917/merck_kgaa_Logo.jpg )

SOURCE Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, GermanyEAST HANOVER, N.J., June 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Novartis today announced positive results from the third Phase III trial of Kisqali (ribociclib) in advanced or metastatic breast cancer. MONALEESA-3 showed Kisqali plus fulvestrant significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) compared to fulvestrant alone in postmenopausal women with hormone-receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative (HR+/HER2-) advanced breast cancer. MONALEESA-3 is the largest phase III trial to evaluate efficacy and safety of a CDK4/6 inhibitor plus fulvestrant in multiple advanced breast cancer patient populations  first-line and second-line settings1. These data will be presented today as an oral presentation at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in Chicago (Abstract #1000) and published simultaneously in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Kisqali in combination with fulvestrant demonstrated a median PFS of 20.5 months (95% CI: 18.5-23.5 months) compared to 12.8 months (95% CI: 10.9-16.3 months) for fulvestrant alone (HR=0.593; 95% CI: 0.480-0.732; p=.00000041) across both treatment arms. The median PFS for the subgroup of patients receiving Kisqali plus fulvestrant in the first-line setting, including only de novo patients and those whose disease relapsed >12 months since end of neo(adjuvant) endocrine therapy, was not reached compared to 18.3 months for fulvestrant alone (HR=0.577; 95% CI: 0.415-0.802). In patients receiving treatment in the second-line setting, or those who relapsed <12 months since end of neo(adjuvant) endocrine therapy, the median PFS was 14.6 months compared to 9.1 months for fulvestrant alone (HR=0.565; 95% CI: 0.428-0.744)1.

"The MONALEESA-3 results in patients treated in this first-line setting were particularly significant. Nearly 70% of women who received ribociclib plus fulvestrant in this setting were estimated to remain progression-free at the median follow-up of 16.5 months," said Dennis J. Slamon, MD, Director of Clinical/Translational Research, University of California, Los Angeles Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. "In the advanced breast cancer setting, it is important to ensure we provide patients with treatment options that increase time to disease progression while also maintaining quality of life."

Fifty percent of the women in MONALEESA-3 had lung and/or liver metastases and showed a consistent treatment benefit compared with the overall population. Follow-up to measure overall survival is ongoing as these data remain immature1.

"MONALEESA-3 data add to the robust body of evidence demonstrating the broad potential of Kisqali to treat pre- and postmenopausal women living with advanced breast cancer in various endocrine combinations and multiple lines of therapy," said Samit Hirawat, MD, Head, Novartis Oncology Global Drug Development. "These results along with the other MONALEESA studies build a compelling case that Kisqali combination therapy should be a cornerstone of first-line treatment of HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer."

No new safety signals were observed in the MONALEESA-3 trial; adverse events were generally consistent with those observed in MONALEESA-21. The discontinuation rate due to adverse events was 8.5% for Kisqali plus fulvestrant compared to 4.1% for fulvestrant alone1. The most common (5%) grade 3/4 adverse events in patients receiving Kisqali plus fulvestrant compared to fulvestrant alone were neutropenia (53.4% vs 0%) and leukopenia (14.1% vs 0%)1.

Additional Kisqali data are being presented at the 2018 ASCO Annual Meeting. Further results from MONALEESA-7 showed consistent treatment benefit among premenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer regardless of prior chemotherapy treatment in the advanced setting (Abstract #1047)2. Initial safety data from the CompLEEment-1 trial demonstrated a consistent safety profile for Kisqali in a patient population more reflective of those seen in a real-world setting (Abstract #1056)3. Lastly, biomarker data from MONALEESA-2 showed that clinical benefit of Kisqali was consistent across gene expression subgroups with a trend toward greater Kisqali benefit in the high versus low ESR1 expression and low versus high RTK expression subgroups (Abstract #1022)4.

Novartis is in discussion with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with respect to a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA), seeking approval of Kisqali plus fulvestrant for the treatment of postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer.

About MONALEESA-3

MONALEESA-3 is a Phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating Kisqali in combination with fulvestrant compared to fulvestrant alone for the treatment of postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who received no prior or only one line of prior endocrine therapy for advanced disease. A total of 726 people were randomized in the trial, including first-line patients comprised of 367 women who were treatment-naive and 345 who had received up to one line of prior endocrine therapy for advanced disease. Patients were randomized (2:1) to receive Kisqali plus fulvestrant or fulvestrant alone. Randomization was stratified by the presence or absence of lung or liver metastases and prior endocrine therapy (first-line versus second-line).

About Kisqali (ribociclib)

Kisqali is a selective cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, a class of drugs that help slow the progression of cancer by inhibiting two proteins called cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6). These proteins, when over-activated, can enable cancer cells to grow and divide too quickly. Targeting CDK4/6 with enhanced precision may play a role in ensuring that cancer cells do not continue to replicate uncontrollably.

Kisqali was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in March 2017 and by the European Commission in August 2017, as initial endocrine-based therapy for postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer in combination with an aromatase inhibitor based on findings from the pivotal MONALEESA-2 trial. Kisqali is not currently approved for use in combination with fulvestrant or in premenopausal women.

Kisqali is approved for use in 59 countries around the world, including the United States and European Union member states. Kisqali was developed by the Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) under a research collaboration with Astex Pharmaceuticals.

About the Kisqali Clinical Trial Program

With more than 2,000 patients enrolled in current trials, the MONALEESA program is the largest industry sponsored Phase III clinical program researching a CDK4/6 inhibitor in HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer. In addition to MONALEESA-3, there are three other Phase III trials evaluating Kisqali combination therapy.

MONALEESA-7 is a Phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the efficacy and safety of Kisqali in combination with tamoxifen or a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor plus goserelin versus tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor plus goserelin, in premenopausal or perimenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who had not previously received endocrine therapy for advanced disease.

MONALEESA-2 is a Phase III global registration trial evaluating Kisqali in combination with letrozole compared to letrozole alone in postmenopausal women with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who received no prior therapy for their advanced breast cancer.

CompLEEment-1 is an open-label, multicenter, Phase IIIb study evaluating the safety and efficacy of Kisqali plus letrozole in pre- or postmenopausal women and men with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who have not received prior hormonal therapy for advanced disease.

More information about these studies can be found at www.ClinicalTrials.gov.

About Novartis in Advanced Breast Cancer

For more than 30 years, Novartis has been tackling breast cancer with superior science, great collaboration and a passion for transforming patient care. With one of the most diverse breast cancer pipelines and one of the largest numbers of breast cancer compounds in development, Novartis leads the industry in discovery of new therapies and combinations, especially in HR+ advanced breast cancer, the most common form of the disease.

Kisqali (ribociclib) Important US Safety Information

Kisqali (ribociclib) is a prescription medicine used in combination with an aromatase inhibitor as the first hormonal-based therapy to treat women who have gone through menopause with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer. It is not known if Kisqali is safe and effective in children. Kisqali can cause a heart problem known as QT prolongation. This condition can cause an abnormal heartbeat and may lead to death. Patients should tell their health care provider right away if they have a change in their heartbeat (a fast or irregular heartbeat), or if they feel dizzy or faint. Kisqali can cause serious liver problems. Patients should tell their health care provider right away if they get any of the following signs and symptoms of liver problems: yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes (jaundice), dark or brown (tea-colored) urine, feeling very tired, loss of appetite, pain on the upper right side of the stomach area (abdomen), and bleeding or bruising more easily than normal. Low white blood cell counts are very common when taking Kisqali and may result in infections that may be severe. Patients should tell their health care provider right away if they have signs and symptoms of low white blood cell counts or infections such as fever and chills. Before taking Kisqali, patients should tell their health care provider if they are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant as Kisqali can harm an unborn baby. Females who are able to become pregnant and who take Kisqali should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose of Kisqali. Do not breastfeed during treatment with Kisqali and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose of Kisqali. Patients should tell their health care provider about all of the medicines they take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements since they may interact with Kisqali. Patients should avoid pomegranate or pomegranate juice, and grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Kisqali. The most common side effects (incidence 20%) of Kisqali when used with letrozole include white blood cell count decreases, nausea, tiredness, diarrhea, hair thinning or hair loss, vomiting, constipation, headache, and back pain. The most common grade 3/4 side effects in the Kisqali + letrozole arm (incidence >2%) were low neutrophils, low leukocytes, abnormal liver function tests, low lymphocytes, and vomiting. Abnormalities were observed in hematology and clinical chemistry laboratory tests.

Please see full Prescribing Information for Kisqali, available at www.kisqali.com.

Disclaimer

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as "potential," "can," "will," "plan," "expect," "anticipate," "look forward," "believe," "committed," "investigational," "pipeline," "launch," or similar terms, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential marketing approvals, new indications or labeling for the investigational or approved products described in this press release, or regarding potential future revenues from such products. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations regarding future events, and are subject to significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be submitted or approved for sale or for any additional indications or labeling in any market, or at any particular time. Nor can there be any guarantee that such products will be commercially successful in the future. In particular, our expectations regarding such products could be affected by, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including clinical trial results and additional analysis of existing clinical data; regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; global trends toward health care cost containment, including government, payor and general public pricing and reimbursement pressures; our ability to obtain or maintain proprietary intellectual property protection; the particular prescribing preferences of physicians and patients; general political and economic conditions; safety, quality or manufacturing issues; potential or actual data security and data privacy breaches, or disruptions of our information technology systems, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AG's current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Novartis

Located in East Hanover, NJ Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation is an affiliate of Novartis which provides innovative healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis offers a diversified portfolio to best meet these needs: innovative medicines, cost-saving generic and biosimilar pharmaceuticals and eye care. Novartis has leading positions globally in each of these areas. In 2017, the Group achieved net sales of USD 49.1 billion, while R&D throughout the Group amounted to approximately USD 9.0 billion. Novartis Group companies employ approximately 124,000 full-time-equivalent associates. Novartis products are sold in approximately 155 countries around the world. For more information, please visit http://www.novartis.com/.

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References

1. Slamon J, et al. Ribociclib (RIB) + fulvestrant (FUL) in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC): Results from MONALEESA-3. Journal of Clinical Oncology 2018. 2. Hurvitz S, et al. Ribociclib (RIB) + tamoxifen (TAM) or a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) in premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC) who received prior chemotherapy (CT): MONALEESA-7 subgroup analysis. Presented at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), June 2, 2018, Chicago, Illinois (abstract #1047). 3. De Laurentiis M, et al. Ribociclib (RIBO) + letrozole (LET) in patients (pts) with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC) with no prior endocrine therapy (ET) for ABC: Preliminary results from the phase 3b CompLEEment-1 trial. Presented at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), June 2, 2018, Chicago, Illinois (abstract #1056). 4. Hortobagyi G, et al. First-line ribociclib (RIB) + letrozole (LET) in hormone receptor-positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC): MONALEESA-2 biomarker analysis. Presented at the 54th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), June 2, 2018, Chicago, Illinois (abstract #1022).

Novartis Media Relations Central media line: +41 61 324 2200 E-mail: [email protected]

Eric Althoff Novartis Global Media Relations +41 61 324 7999 (direct) +41 79 593 4202 (mobile) [email protected] Julie Masow Novartis Oncology Media Relations +1 862 778 7220 (direct) +1 862 579 8456 (mobile) [email protected]

Novartis Investor Relations Central investor relations line: +41 61 324 7944 E-mail: [email protected] Central

North America

Samir Shah +41 61 324 7944 Richard Pulik +1 212 830 2448 Pierre-Michel Bringer +41 61 324 1065 Cory Twining +1 212 830 2417 Thomas Hungerbuehler +41 61 324 8425



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SOURCE Novartis

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Week 6 of Big 7 football is upon us With this being Week 6 of Valley high school football, the mid-point of the 2021/2022 season is upon us. While some teams have played one game more or less than others, depending on when they each had their bye weeks scheduled, going into this weekend, fiveLagos, June 3 : Nigerian Police said at least 15 people have been killed when unknown gunmen attacked a village in Nigeria's Zamfara state.

Police spokesperson Muhammad Shehu, told reporters in Gusau, the state capital, that the gunmen killed the people in Zakuna village, Xinhua news agency reported.

The gunmen invaded Zakuna in the early hours of Friday and stole cows belonging to villagers, the official said on Saturday, adding that no arrest had been made.

He told reporters that investigation into the matter had commenced.Mexico City, June 3 : At least 10 people have been killed when a cargo truck slammed into a bus in Mexico's Tlaxcala state.

The accident, which left another 11 people injured, occurred on Saturday, Xinhua news agency reported.

The cargo truck reportedly had break failure and rammed into the bus, killing eight passengers on site, the police told Xinhua. Two other victims died on the way to hospital.

The truck was carrying construction materials, and the impact of the crash sent both vehicles off the highway.

The injured were taken to a hospital in Texcoco, police said.New Delhi : What makes a literary work a classic? The readers' opinion or a prominent literary figure's certification? Or could it be, as many literary critics suggest, the enduring relevance of its motifs and message, beyond the space and time it portrays? By this yardstick, this French work definitely qualifies with its themes of friendship, duty, gallantry, honour, integrity and loyalty amid pressures and perils.

Among the world's best-known historical novels, Alexandre Dumas' "Les Trois Mousquetaires", or "The Three Musketeers" (as we know it), has long been a favourite for not only readers but also filmmakers, with more than two versions made all over the world between 1903 and 2013.

The title is a little misleading -- for there are actually four musketeers -- though the actual hero, d'Artagnan, only becomes one a little over midway through the book.

But still, he and the three characters -- Athos, Aramis, and Porthos -- with their motto of "Tous pour un, un pour tous" ("All for One, One for All"), never fail to enthuse us as they live, love, dare across the backdrop of early 17th century France, where King Louis XIII reigned and his Prime Minister, Cardinal Richelieu, ruled.

The story starts with d'Artagnan, a member of an aristocratic family now in reduced circumstances, leaving his home in southern France for Paris to join the King's Musketeers. However, on the way, he gets into a brawl with a noble stranger and while he is knocked senseless, his letter of introduction to the commandant of the King's Musketeers is stolen.

Reaching Paris without further incident, d'Artagnan secures an appointment with the Commandant, M. de Treville, who is giving a stern rebuke to the three Musketeers, based on hearsay accounts of a scrap between them and the Cardinal's Guards, but changes his stand after hearing their version. D'Artagnan is received civilly but de Treville, a bit suspicious after hearing the story of his roadside affray and the loss of the letter, tells him he cannot join the Musketeers directly and proposes he join a grooming academy first.

As he is writing his letter of introduction, d'Artagnan catches a glimpse of the enemy stranger passing and rushes out to confront him. In his haste, he manages to offend Athos, Porthos and Aramis and has to duel them. As they gather in a deserted place -- as duelling is banned -- Athos and the others are amazed to see that this youth is willing to fight all three of them consecutively.

But even before they cross swords, a party of the Cardinal's Guards appear and seek to arrest them, and our heroes join forces to repulse their rivals. An elated M de Treville tells the King, who is also delighted and commands they be brought before him. But there is a delay and, meanwhile, d'Artagnan gets into another duel, which becomes a pitched battle between the Musketeers and the Cardinal's men, in which the former again win handsomely. He is eventually inducted in a Guards regiment, and promised that he will be made a Musketeer soon.

With these first few chapters that serve to show how a bond forms between the three veterans and d'Artagnan, the main story begins when his landlord seeks his help in rescuing his young wife, a handmaid and confidante of the queen. While this is done (and our hero falls in love with her), it also gets him embroiled in court intrigues -- between the King, his neglected wife, Anne of Austria, (who is in an affair with the English Prime Minister, the Duke of Buckingham) and the Cardinal.

The next 600-odd pages tell us how our heroes manage their finances (military pay was poor and infrequent), and more importantly, carry out a perilous mission for the queen -- in which d'Artagnan eventually must travel alone to London -- and try to foil the Cardinal's strategems, especially those by his beautiful but lethal aide, the Milady (who has a past with one of them and becomes d'Artagnan's sworn enemy).

This is enlivened by set pieces, like that of Athos's gambling feats and Aramis's thesis, their wager in war, d'Artagnan's two interviews with the Cardinal, and the ominous finale of dealing with Milady.

The quartet's story continues in at least two other massive books but these don't convey the magic of the initial work, and are also much darker.

Inspired to write the story after coming across an old book in which he found the names of the four who were historical characters, Dumas, however, reinvented their lives, making them a philosophical ensemble -- Aramis (realist), Porthos (apathetic), Athos (cynic), and d'Artagnan (optimist) -- while working in his views about whimsical imperial politics, religious corruption and so on.

Translated into English within two years, though a bit pruned in view of conventional mores about sexuality -- which made some major stretches incomprehensible. Recent versions have remedied this.

But above all, "The Three Musketeers" is a paean to friendship, beyond age, background or temperament. That makes it not only a classic but an essential read for today's distracted and self-seeking youth.

(Vikas Datta is an Associate Editor at IANS. The views expressed are personal. He can be contacted at vikas.d@ians.in)London, June 3 : The UK on Sunday marked the first anniversary of the deadly London Bridge terrorist attack which killed eight people.

Prime Minister Theresa May said Britain's determination to overcome the threat of terrorism "has never been stronger", Xinhua news agency reported.

"Today we remember those who died in the London Bridge attack and the many more who were injured, as we pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened and came to the aid of others," May tweeted.

Eight people died when three men drove into pedestrians on the London Bridge and then stabbed people in Borough Market.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said he was "proud" of the way the city had responded to terror attacks, by "standing united in defiance and staying true to our values and way of life".Los Angeles, June 3 : Actor Hugh Jackman says his 'ridiculously blessed' children have a responsibility to help others.

"My kids have so many advantages," people.com quoted Jackman as saying.

"And I want them to know that they have a responsibility to use those advantages to help others," added the "Greatest Showman" star.

Jackman and wife Deborra-Lee Furness share two children -- Oscar, 18, and Ava, 12.

He said: "My kids are constantly reminded about how lucky we are in our family. We're ridiculously blessed. We live in a beautiful home in places that other people dream of.

"But in terms of the world, we're even more blessed. One out of six people doesn't have clean drinking water. They can't comprehend how we live."

Jackman says that he is trying to pattern the right behaviour for Oscar and Ava. "I want to lead my kids by example when it comes to charity."

The actor says it doesn't matter if his children give back locally or around the world.

He said: "The more we can see the world as a whole, and the less as 'your team, my team', the better we will be. I am ridiculously blessed.

"I don't need any more money. I'm totally good. So if I can use whatever power I have now to share with others, that's my hope. And I want my kids to be with me every step of the way."San Francisco, June 3 : The tablet section which disappeared from Google's official Android website is back now, the media reported.

In response to a user on Twitter, Hiroshi Lockheimer, Senior Vice President of Platforms and Ecosystems at Google, replied that the tablet section's removal was just a bug that popped up while updating the website, 9to5google.com reported on Saturday.

"Oops we had a bug when we updated the site. It's back up now. Sorry for the confusion!" Lockheimer tweeted.

What's particularly weird is the fact that the three tablets highlighted on the site are the Nvidia Shield Tablet K1, Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 8.0, and the Sony Xperia Z4 Tablet, the report said.

Despite the lack of demand for Android tablets, there are newer options available for customers to purchase that would be better suited for the site.New Delhi, June 3 : The Congress on Sunday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of deliberately enrolling approximately 60 lakh fake voters in the Madhya Pradesh voters list to influence the upcoming assembly election.

In a memorandum to the Election Commission of India, the Congress demanded action against the irregularities in the voter rolls.

Madhya Pradesh Congress President Kamal Nath said they have provided evidence to the EC that there are approximately 60 lakh fake voters in the lists.

Citing figures, Nath questioned "How is it possible that population had increased by 24 per cent but number of voters had increased by 40 per cent."

Nath said that a voter was existing multiple times in the voters list with different names.

"Why has BJP not complained against these irregularities in the voter rolls? Why has BJP not demanded any inquiry?" the leader asked.

Congress MP Jyotiraditya Scindia accused the BJP of attempting to influence and win the Madhya Pradesh assembly election.

"It is an attempt to destroy democracy," Scindia said, adding "there are 5 crore voters in Madhya Pradesh of whom 12 per cent are fake." He said the difference in vote share between the two parties was just 9 per cent during the last legislative assembly election.

The party has requested the EC to enquire into the irregularities and discrepancies and take strict and prompt action against the erring officials.

The party has sought the removal of all duplicate entries in the electoral rolls of 230 assembly constituencies of Madhya Pradesh and to conduct free and fair elections.

"It is stated that repeated/demographically similar entries of bordering/adjoining assembly segments of bordering states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Gujarat are also prevalent and should be duly verified in order to ensure free and fair assembly elections in state of Madhya Pradesh," the memorandum read.Agartala, June 3 : Tripura's 'Queen' variety pineapples are finally on their way to Dubai with Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Sunday flagging off a one tonne consignment -- the first.

The exquisite variety of fruit, known for being juicy and sweet, was sent on a SpiceJet aircraft via New Delhi.

The private airliner last month signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the state government-run Tripura Horticulture Corp and a Kolkata-based company to facilitate the exports.

Deb, who personally took the initiative to export the pineapple which is famous in India and neighbouring countries, urged the people to grow more pineapples and jackfruits as both are being produced in Tripura with a rich quality due to the climatic condition, soil and the environment.

"Tripura can earn huge foreign money by cultivating bamboo. If the farmers and others cultivate pineapple, jackfruit and bamboo, their economic condition would see a sea change," he said at the function.

The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was keen to double the farmers' income.

A SpiceJet official said that by Wednesday they would carry three tonnes of pineapples to Dubai.

State Agriculture and Tourism Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, who along with other senior officials was present at the function, said the Bharatiya Janata Party-led alliance government's initiative to export the pineapples would encourage the farmers to grow pineapples in newer areas in the state.

"Tripura would be able to supply at least 200 MT best grown pineapples during the current season (May to July). The 'Queen' pineapples being sold in Tripura for Rs 20 per kg would be at least Rs 80 in the Dubai market," the minister added.

Tripura Horticulture Department Director Arun Debbarma said this year pineapples were cultivated in 8,500 hectares of land and the production is expected to be 1.28 MT.

Pineapples are one of the major fruit crops in terms of area and volume of production.

The official said the productivity of pineapples per hectare is 18.73 tonnes which is higher than the national average of 15.80 tonnes.

"Tripura pineapple is organic by default because of climatic and soil condition, besides ecological situations," Debbarma added.Bengaluru, June 3 : Senior Congress leader S.R. Patil on Sunday resigned as Working President of the party's Karnataka unit, owning moral responsibility for its defeat in the recent assembly election.

"I have resigned from the party post taking up moral responsibility for our losses in the assembly election," Patil told reporters here.

The Congress, which was in power, only won 78 of the 222 seats in the May 12 election.

"I was in-charge of the party's performance in north Karnataka. Had the party won more seats from the region, we would have formed the government independently," said Patil, who is presently in the legislative council.

Of the 90 seats in the state's region, the Congress won only 31.

Patil also claimed that he had sent his resignation to party President Rahul Gandhi by e-mail on May 25, two days after the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S)-Congress coalition government was formed with JD-S leader H.D. Kumaraswamy as Chief Minister and Congress state unit president G. Parameswara as Deputy Chief Minister.

Opposition BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, termed Patil's resignation as the beginning of his party's downfall in the state, where it came to power piggy-riding on the JD-S.

"The downfall of the empire that was built after mocking people's mandate has begun. @IN Karnataka senior leader Sri SR Patil resigns. This is only the beginning of the downfall of power hungry government," BJP Karnataka said on its twitter handle.Nadi (Fiji), June 3 : Actress Ileana D'Cruz on Sunday returned to Fiji to keep her promise of visiting the island nation again to experience its natural, cultural and adventurous bounty.

The actress, who has worked in the southern and Hindi film industry, had first visited the country in the Oceania region last year. But it was just earlier this year that she was named the official brand ambassador for Tourism Fiji in India.

"Coming back to Fiji feels like coming home again. I'm really excited about my trip this time. There's a lot of new places and new experience that I will be trying out," Ileana told IANS here.

India is an important potential tourism market for Fiji, which roped in the actress for a year-long association to showcase the destination through her travel and diverse experiences.

While here, she will be exploring different regions including Nadi, Coral Coast, the Mamanuca Islands, Pacific Harbour and Savusavu. Visiting a pearl farm, kayaking, hiking to a waterfall, snorkelling, quad biking and surfing are some of the activities on her itinerary.

She is here to shoot a campaign for the tourism board and is accompanied by beau Andrew Kneebone, an Australian photographer. They were welcomed with the traditional hello, Bula.

It is the beaches, weather and the hospitality in Fiji which attract the "Barfi" and "Raid" actress.

In her previous Instagram posts, Ileana has mentioned more than once that she is happiest by the sea.

While on her way to Fiji, Ileana posted an Instagram story, saying she was "super excited" to be back.

(The writer's trip is at the invitation of Tourism Fiji. Radhika Bhirani can be contacted at radhika.b@ians.in)Srinagar, June 3 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday said the trend of more youths joining militancy will achieve nothing except increased footprints of the security forces in the state.

Addressing a convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) here, Mehbooba reacted to reports of more young people joining militant ranks.

"The increase in the number of youths picking up the gun will increase the presence of Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the police.

"More the situation improves, the more we can ask the Army, the CRPF and the police to reduce their footprints (in Kashmir)", the Chief Minister said.

Condemning the recent grenade attacks by militants in the Valley, she said: "Despite ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. They do not see that civilians are getting killed, they do not see that Army or CRPF jawans have come from far flung areas for their bread and butter. What will this achieve?

"There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved?" she asked.

She said through peaceful means the People's Democratic Party had been able to persuade the opening of the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad and Poonch-Rawalkote roads.

"If the situation improves, I promise you that we will open more such routes."

Mehbooba made a fervent appeal to Kashmiri separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from further bloodshed and reminded them that the announcement of ceasefire by the Indian government was a step that cannot be expected always.

She said the problem can only be resolved thorough dialogue.

"This time there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre. I request all stakeholders to come forward to save Kashmir."

Mehbooba said it was for the separatists to decide whether the youths of Kashmir should come out of the culture of stones and guns.

She also appealed to New Delhi and Islamabad to start the dialogue process in order to improve the situation since Jammu and Kashmir bears the brunt of strained relations between the two countries.New Delhi, June 3 : Individuals are open to companionship with people with disabilities, according to a survey.

Inclov, a matchmaking platform for people with disabilities, conducted a survey among 30,000 people with disabilities and health disorders across 300 cities in India. The participating age group ranged from 18 to 30 years.

The survey found that a majority of 61 per cent of the audience are okay with their partners with or without disability.

It was also highlighted that a majority of the audience, at 61 per cent, are in the age group of 20-30 years followed by 18.1 per cent in the 30-40 age group, showcasing that while the majority of people with disability as an audience set here is millennial, people across age-groups are looking for companionship.

Popular prejudices suggest that people with disabilities are perceived or suggested at living isolated lives, with marriage not on their radar. The data suggests otherwise with a majority of the audience at 78 per cent being single and actively looking for a partner through marriage and dating.

Marriage is indeed a priority for this demographic, with 50 per cent of the community looking actively for marriage followed by 15 per cent looking for friendship and 13.5 per cent looking for dating.

When it comes to lifestyle and socio-economic background, 61.5 per cent still live with their families, while 28.1 per cent live alone.

Shankar Srinivasan, Co-Founder at Inclov, said: "Our core vision as a community has been to create an inclusive platform for people with disabilities to help find companionship amidst positive experiences. Through this survey, we wanted to understand them a bit deeper and help burst some popular myths and prejudices plaguing them.

"We plan to make this a regular endeavour and the track changes and progress so as to serve the community better."Ranchi, June 3 : Tribals in Jharkhand's Khuti district on Sunday defied the state rule against running a parallel administration and laid the foundation stones of the Bank of Gram Sabha, Tribal Education Board, Health Board and Defence Board.

People from several villages gathered in Udburu village under Murhu block for Pathhalgari -- an age-old tradition of tribals wherein they erect monoliths in the name of their ancestors on the borders of villages.

From September last year, the tribals in Khuti started using Pathhalgari as a form of protest against the government of India and setting up a parallel administration run by themselves.

The state government has failed to contain the parallel government run by the tribal Gram Sabha in parts of Khuti.

The tribal priest performed the traditional rituals in presence of the Gram Sabha leader Joseph Purt alias Yusuf Purty. The bank started functioning from Sunday as Purty issued bank passbooks to over 100 people.

"The Gram Sabha has done nothing wrong by opening the bank. This is for development of the tribal people," said Purty.

He said the money will come from the government's tribal sub-plan. "At this time the Indian government currency will be in circulation. In future the Gram Sabha may consider issuing its own currency notes."

The Bank of Gram Sabha will function like other banks, giving interest on the deposits.

The state government had in the past warned people against indulging in illegal form of Pathhalgari by bringing out advertisements in the local newspapers. A few leaders, involved in Pathhalgari, have also been arrested in the past.Hyderabad, June 3 : Setting a model for others, eminent breast surgeon P. Raghu Ram has undertaken various initiatives worth Rs 50 lakh in his adopted village Ibrahimpur in Telangana.

Irrigation Minister Harish Rao launched the completed projects in the village on the Telangana Formation Day on Saturday.

Along with his parents Chalapathi Rao, Ushalakshmi and wife Vyjayanthi -- all doctors -- Raghu Ram contributed the money for various projects in Ibrahimpur, a remote village in Medak district with a population of around 1,000 people and 265 homes which he adopted in 2016.

The projects launched on Saturday include 'Vaikuntam', a modern crematorium built over one acre. The villagers were earlier forced to travel 20 km to Siddipet to perform the last rites of their loves ones.

He also built 46 sheep sheds with solar electrification over three acres of land on the outskirts of the village.

"Sheep are housed away from the village so that they do not come into the village, thus preventing animal borne diseases within the village community," Raghu Ram, Director, KIMS-Ushalakshmi Centre for Breast Diseases, Hyderabad, said on Sunday.

He also got solar systems installed for 26 houses to provide free electricity to the poorest of the poor.

The minister laid the foundation stone for a community library, which would provide access to newspapers, magazines and books in addition to an Internet cafe for residents to improve their quality of lives.

Last year, he had built a dining room in the village school. The students were earlier eating their lunch in open compound which was causing great inconvenience and health hazards, particularly in summer.

He also built a digital study room in the school providing access to state of the art audio visual facilities.

The surgeon pledged to develop a Village Health Centre in partnership with the state government and providing basic healthcare to residents with active assistance from KIMS Hospitals.

As cancer is one of leading causes of deaths in the country, a regular Cancer Screening Programme would be implemented to detect breast, cervical and oral cancers in early stages, which would benefit residents in and around Ibrahimpur, thus saving many lives.

"A man's true wealth is the good he does in the world. Trust this initiative would encourage many more citizens to adopt villages and reach out to those who need help and assistance," said Raghu Ram.New Delhi, June 3 : The Election Commission on Sunday formed four teams to look into allegation levelled by Congress that lakhs of bogus voters were registered in Madhya Pradesh.

The EC has formed teams consisting of two members each to verify electoral rolls in Narela, Bhojpur, Hoshangabad and Seoni Malwa Assembly constituencies.

The teams will start their probe from Monday and submit their report by June 7.

The EC's move came hours after the Congress submitted a memorandum to the poll panel along with instances of multiple entries of the same voter with different names in a given Assembly constituency as well as those of one voter listed in multiple assembly constituencies.

The Congress alleged that there were close to 60 lakh bogus voters in the state and that it was being done at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) behest.

Madhya Pradesh Congress President Kamal Nath said they have provided evidence to the EC that there were approximately 60 lakh fake voters in the lists.

Citing figures, Nath questioned: "How is it possible that population has increased by 24 per cent but number of voters has increased by 40 per cent?"

The party has sought the removal of all duplicate entries in the electoral rolls of 230 Assembly constituencies of Madhya Pradesh to conduct free and fair elections.

The terms of reference of the teams formed by the EC include enquiring into each specific issues raised in the complaint; to find out the "alleged fake voters' name, if any"; to find out "how did it happen" and fix the responsibility to initiate appropriate action.New Delhi, June 3 : India stands at a critical threshold on its way to development where a lot depends on the opportunities which allow the cities to grow, Union Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Sunday.

Speaking here at the 'The Knowledge Coalition-Intelligent Conversations', two days ahead of the World Environment Day, he pointed out that the urbanisation process in the country will be a key driver of how much the country can benefit from the "much talked about 'urban transition'".

"... with its cities emerging as the drivers of the national economy, India stands at the threshold of a critical 'moment' in its developmental trajectory where adequate opportunities must be created for cities/towns to grow, flourish and become vibrant centres of investment and productivity," Puri was quoted as saying in a statement issued by his ministry.

The minister also acknowledged the measures pledged by India to reduce its carbon emission for a cleaner environment and emphasised that all missions under his ministry had a "strong focus on environment and ecological sustainability".Ranchi, June 3 : At least 14 patients died in the last 36 hours in the Rajendra Institute of Medical Science (RIMS) in Jharkhand as nurses and junior doctors of the institute were on a strike against an assault on one of its staff.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Sunday took cognisance of the RIMS incident and asked Chief Secretary Sudhir Tripathy and Health Minister Ramchandra Chndrabansi to hold talks with the nurses and junior doctors.

The trouble began when a patient Geeta Devi died after a nurse gave her an injection. Following her death, the nurse was thrashed by Devi's attendants on Friday night.

On Saturday morning, the nurses and junior doctors of RIMS went on a strike and did not allow admission of patients in the hospital while those already admitted were not provided medicine and treatment, resulting in the death of 14 patients.

The Chief Minister said that everyone had the right to protest but chaos would not be tolerated in the RIMS.

More than 2,000 OPD patients returned on Saturday and Sunday without treatment while family members of many patients admitted in RIMS shifted them to other hospitals.

On Sunday afternoon Chndrabansi and Tripathy reached RIMS for dialogue, following which the strike was called off.Panaji, June 3 : The Congress in Goa on Sunday demanded the resignation of BJP state women's wing President Sulakshana Sawant over her remarks that the government cannot provide security to every individual.

"It is disgusting. Is she in her senses? Being a woman, she should resign on moral grounds," said state Congress Mahila Morcha President Pratima Coutinho.

Commenting on the increase in number of rape cases in the state and gang rape of a 20-year-old woman at a south Goa beach last month, Sawant had said that the government could not provide security to every individual.

"We need to change the mentality of the people. We cannot provide security to every individual. But an individual can act as a protector for the other person," she had said.

On the contrary, Coutinho said that women should always be given the highest level of respect and security.

"Their protection and safety is a sacred duty of the society," she added.Hundreds of thousands of poor, middle-class, old, sick, and young Virginians will get increased access to health care as the Commonwealth, joining 33 states and the District of Columbia, saw the crumbling of five years of fierce GOP-led opposition to an expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare.

Partisans, who reviled an enlarged role of the state in health care, got to pin a partisan fig leaf on the states move, by amending the social support program to force more recipients to work or show that they cannot, to receive Medicaid benefits.

Although neither the Trump Administration nor congressional Republicans are likely to heed it, Virginia and other states are sending a clear message that voters see health care as a right, not a privilege, and that voters will go to the polls to deal with those who claim to represent them but who make a near religion out of seeming to want to punish the sick and poor and to make costlier the already skyrocketing price of medical services.

While GOP members of Congress unsuccessfully have spent years and cast dozens of votes to try to repeal and replace Obamacare, one of the ACAs signature elements  Medicaids expansion  has grown deep roots and may spread. (See map above, from the nonpartisan Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.)

Maine voters have approved an expansion, bitterly fought still by that states governor. (The states uncertain status with the program explains why some analysts say Medicaid has expanded in 32 not 33 states.) Utah has edged into an expansion and voters there will decide whether to increase it more. Idaho and Nebraska both are working or on the brink of fall ballot measures to determine if those states will expand Medicaid.

The states that still resist the expansion are mostly in the Deep South and Midwest. Virginia is one of the larger holdout states to finally sign on.

Independent research shows that states that have expanded the program have not experienced fiscal regrets and that claims that they would see dire financial consequences are just wrong. Medicaid expansion has led to improved health coverage by more Americans, with largely positive effects on access, affordability, and use of health care, especially among poorer participants, according to multiple independent, nonpartisan, evidence-based studies. It may be too early to tell but this also has tended to show improvements in recipients health outcomes.

Virginias Medicaid program isnt particularly generous but as many as 400,000 participants have said they will welcome the help theyll get through it. Opponents to the expansion, though entrenched in their beliefs that the ACA was wrong and its generous aid for Medicaid expansion would founder, leaving states with onerous bills for the program, found themselves on the wrong side of voters ire  many were swept out of the state house in a blue wave, fueled by opposition to Trump and with concerns about health care and its affordability and access.

Massachusetts already had a state law calling for a key component of the ACA, the individual mandate that requires citizens to show they have health coverage when they pay their taxes. New Jersey has just passed a state individual mandate.

Meantime, states and a sizable number of health advocacy groups are starting what promises to be fierce opposition to ACA alternative health plans, advocated by the Trump Administration and congressional Republicans  coverages offered short term or by defined groups or associations. These have existed before, are heavily regulated by many states now, and have been trashed by opponents and experts. They say these policies can be cheaper, especially for healthier young Americans. But they provide such skimpy or restricted benefits that theyre akin to paying small premiums for zero coverage when needed.

In my practice, I see not only the harms that patients suffer while seeking medical services but also their struggles to access and afford safe, efficient, and excellent medical care, and especially to ensure they have some kind of insurance or government support to help pay for it.

As partisans carve away at public payment for Americans medical care, and as employers, insurers, doctors, hospitals, Big Pharma, and other providers send medical costs head skyward, the idea of sharing the burdens of medical bills is not just sounding like a progressive pipe dream but a necessity to more Americans. We have a long way to go on health costs and coverage, but its good to see Virginia officials step up to try to care better for state residents. Those midterm elections, upcoming this fall, look more important than ever.It was bound to happen. Attempts to slow down the pace of automation are making their way to the top of the union agenda. The first major battle is taking place in Las Vegas. But in this case, what happens in Vegas isnt likely to stay in Vegas.

The city that never sleeps has been the site of a battle waged by the Culinary Workers and the Bartenders unions to prevent or slow the introduction of new technologies at Vegas hotels. The union threatened to strike largely based on these issues, before reaching settlements with Caesars and MGM Resorts. (Details of the agreements have yet to be released.)

The city isnt the first place where the backlash against technological progress has reared its head. A growing realization that jobs arent going to Mexico or China so much as to robots and other technologies has spawned a new ludditism, aimed at clinging to jobs by stopping or at least slowing the advance of technology. The same job-protection impulse that drives opposition to free trade is now being directed at new technologies. In New York, for example, cabbies are demanding a ban on self-driving cars. In most cities, the companies are trying to block ride-sharing services.

But it isnt surprising that the first major union battle over the introduction of artificial intelligence is taking place in the gambling mecca. A majority of Nevadas workers are employed in legacy service sector jobs especially susceptible to automation. Redlands University economist Johannes Moenius calls Las Vegas the epicenter of a potential wave of automation. He estimates that about 65 percent of the current jobs in the city may be automated within the next 20 years  including over 70 percent of hotel jobs.

One can already find many examples of leading-edge automation at Vegas hotels. Not only are many rolling out self-check-in kiosks, and voice recognition technology for guests ordering room service, but the Renaissance Hotel has robot butlers that deliver towels and toiletries to guests. A bar has replaced its bartender with two large cocktail-mixing robot arms. Not surprisingly, the name of the drinking spot is The Tipsy Robot.

But the unions are trying to move back the clock. We support innovations that improve jobs, but we oppose automation when it only destroys jobs, says union secretary-treasurer Geoconda Arguello-Kline. But if new technologies that shed jobs had been blocked in the past, we would not have automobiles (which eliminated jobs for carriage makers and blacksmiths), air travel (replacing trains), or even the telephone (which replaced telegrams.)

Arguello-Kline also argues that the hotel industry must innovate without losing the common touch. But most travellers, especially early adapters, business travelers and Millennials, want new AI services, such as web-based travel services, and use of smart phones to book rooms, change reservations, order room service and pay bills. It seems that rather than a common touch, travelers increasingly want heretofore uncommon services.

It comes down to a straightforward question: Whom are hotels built to serve? One can only feel empathy for workers who face the risk of job loss to technology, but the answer is that hotels are meant to serve their guests. If the best, most efficient, and most desired way to serve guests is through the increased adoption of AI, that is exactly what will happen. The customer truly is always right, because customers are the ones that hotels  and all businesses  are built for.

This is certainly not the first time the needs of consumers have come up against workers desire for job security. The inauguration of direct long-distance dialing over 65 years ago prompted unions to argue that AT&T had created what they called technological unemployment on a mass scale. The introduction of direct dial did indeed lead to jobs being shed. In the late 1940s, more than 350,000 operators worked for AT&T. But it also created convenience and efficiency for telephone users. The result wasnt fewer jobs but more, as a more efficient economy generated more wealth.

AI  in Las Vegas and elsewhere  will do the same thing today. In shedding jobs, smart robots and other advanced technologies can also improve our quality of life  and our economy. You can bet on it.Stand by for a torrent of slobbering stories about Robert F. Kennedy as the 50th anniversary of his assassination approaches Wednesday.The main speaker at the official ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery will be Bill Clinton. I kid you not  Bill Clinton! Look, of course it's terrible that RFK was murdered at the age of 42, leaving behind all those kids and Ethel pregnant with the last of them. But since his passing, there's been even more historical revisionism about Bobby than with almost any of the other liberal icons.The search at Barber Creek in Oconee County for two teenagers is in its fifth day with no success, according to the Oconee County Sheriffs Office.A lot goes on around Athens, and sometimes it can be hard to keep up. From the Five & Ten hiring a new chef de cuisine, to a sinkhole openWith summer now in full swing, the Terrapin Summer Kickoff at the Foundry on Thursday, June 7, aims to usher in the new season. This free evenComedy breeds controversy, and its hard to keep viewers when those viewers are offended by something said or done. Jokes turned offensive at Lily Allen, the face of female British pop, ditches her sugar-and-spice-and-everything nice attitude for a harsher truth. In No Shame, her fourth studio album, Allen adopts a self-critical evaluation of her life in what could be one of her best albums yet.WATERBURY Connecticut Community Foundation recently released its 2017 annual report, which highlights the impact of the foundations donors and community partners in improving the quality of life in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hillsparticularly in response to challenges. The Foundation awarded $5 million in grants and college scholarships in 2017 to local nonprofit organizations and students, respectively.

The report, When Communities Faced ChallengesYou Built Bridges, features the successes made possible by the Foundations donors through grants to:

Naugatuck Valley Community College - for a new student food pantry, for financial assistance for students pursuing advanced manufacturing certificates, and for on-campus job training for students.

Waterbury Public Schools - for their after-school robotics program involving four Waterbury middle schools that promotes interest in careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

New Opportunities, Inc. - for a range of programs and services that promote independence and well-being for older people in Greater Waterbury, including increased access to healthy meals.

Mental Health Connecticut - for art therapy for people challenged by mental illnesses.

Another story describes how local donors mobilized in response to the plight of Puerto Ricans affected by hurricanes Irma and Maria in the fall of 2017, aiding efforts to supply water, food, housing and medicine, both to people on the island and to those who have relocated to Greater Waterbury.

Connecticut Community Foundation was formed 95 years ago by a small group of local residents who joined their financial resources to create an endowment that would benefit communities in the region forever. Since then, more than 500 individuals, businesses and organizations have created charitable funds at the Foundation. Stewarded thoughtfully over the years, the investment proceeds have been turned into grants to nonprofit organizations serving communities in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills.

In 2017, the foundations investments realized a 16.48 percent net investment returnexceeding the benchmarkand its net assets grew to nearly $106 million.

New funds established by donors in 2017 included the Sarah Gager Family Scholarship Fund, the Womens Giving Circle and the Ingrid Martland Fund for Silas Bronson Library.

In a written statement, Julie Loughran, president and CEO of Connecticut Community Foundation, said, The transformative power of philanthropy is on full display in our 2017 annual report. We are profoundly grateful to the many donors whose charitable visions have included making lives better in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills, and we celebrate the superb local nonprofit organizations whose work helps make those charitable visions come true.

View the 2017 annual report at www.conncf.org/annual-reports.

O&G Wins Two Awards for Route 175 Bridge Project

O&Gf wins Award of Merit for projects

TORRINGTON  O&G Industries Heavy Civil Construction Group recently won the Connecticut Society of Civil Engineers (CSCE) Construction ACE Award of Merit and the Transportation ACE Award of Merit for the Rehabilitation of the Route 175 Bridge in Newington, according to a press release.

The project, awarded by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, was one of the first Accelerated Bridge Construction projects completed in the State. Accelerated Bridge Construction is a process by which a bridge is largely pre-fabricated offsite, then installed during short windows of time to reduce the impact to motorists, AMTRAK service on the rail line beneath the bridge and accelerate overall time to completion.

The Route 175 project was completed in only five months using this design/build methodology, while limiting lane closures to two weekends in late summer. Construction on the project began in May of 2017 and was completed in the fall of 2017.

The project has also been recognized with the Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) Project Team Award of Merit in the Transportation/Civil/Utilities category.

O&G is General Contractor, Construction Manager, Design/Builder and Specialty Sub-Contractor with nearly a century of experience in commercial building, power plant, road & bridge and site construction. We serve clients in educational, healthcare, industrial manufacturing, transportation, power and municipal markets throughout the U.S. O&G is headquartered in Torrington, CT.

CJR to hold annual scholarship dinner

LITCHFIELD  Connecticut Junior Republic will hold its 17th Annual Scholarship Dinner at LaBella Vista in Waterbury on Thursday, June 7, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Proceeds raised through this event will provide scholarships for boys and girls who are associated with CJRs programs in 13 locations throughout Connecticut. The scholarships will assist students in obtaining a college, university, or technical school education.

Tickets to the event are $30 per person, and include a buffet dinner. Approximately 300 sponsors, guests, scholarship recipients and family members are expected to attend.

Scholarships will be awarded to 19 young people with recipients from four of CJRs 11 community-based program locations across Connecticut anticipated to receive awards. Tickets may be purchased in advance until Thursday, May 31, by contacting the Connecticut Junior Republic (860) 567-9423 ext. 278; or via CJRs website: www.ctjuniorrepublic.org. Tickets will NOT be sold at the Scholarship Dinner.

Last year CJR raised nearly $40,000 in net proceeds through this event, said CJR Executive Director Daniel W. Rezende, in a written statement. This year we hope to exceed that amount so we can provide additional support for our young people, he said.

Founded in 1904, the Connecticut Junior Republic (CJR) provides care, treatment, education and family support for vulnerable at-risk, special needs and troubled young people so they may become productive and fulfilled members of their homes, schools and communities. Today, the organizations combined community-based and residential programs serve nearly 2,000 boys and girls annually in 13 locations throughout Connecticut.

The Junior Republic conducts three residential programs for court-referred young men on its Litchfield campus, and longer term care at its Group Home in Winchester. Regular, special, vocational and alternative education programs are provided for boys from communities throughout Connecticut at CJRs Cable Academic and Vocational Education Center, which is located on its Litchfield campus. Enhancement, transition and related services are also provided. CJR also provides educational services for girls at its new Cable Academic and Vocational Education Center in Bristol.

A broad spectrum of prevention, early intervention, family support, and intensive, home-based service and aftercare programs are provided for boys and girls through CJRs community locations in Danbury, East Hartford, Manchester, Meriden, New Haven, New Britain (two sites), Torrington and Waterbury. Behavioral and mental health services are provided at these locations, as well as Litchfield and Winsted.

For further information, contact Hedy Barton, Director of Development and Public Relations (860) 567-9423, extension 252; or by email: hbarton@cjryouth.org.Torrington Middle School students took their annual trip to Washington, DC in May. The group of students, teachers and chaperones visited several landmarks and placed a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, an honor bestowed on four selected students including Chase Brown, Amelia Russell, Sierra Doyle, Catherine Wootton.

During their visit, TMS students met up with Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-Vermont, and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut.

The following essay was contributed by Angelo Calabrese on behalf of the group.

Symbolism Comes to Life in 2018

If the lacing of shoes symbolizes the readiness for adventure, then that was where the story began for 156 students and chaperones in the early hours of Tuesday, May 26, en route to Washington, DC, the Torrington Middle Schools ninth annual eighth-grade trip.

Those shoes would traverse over 30 miles in four days in the DC area, while the other roughly 1,000 miles were covered by four buses.

The first major stop came at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Among the exhibits was a massive pile of shoes, confiscated from prisoners at one concentration camp. Numerous students were struck by their enduring leathery smell, a sensory reminder of the museums messages to bear witness and never stop asking why.

There, and later at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, students could imagine being in the shoes of those who were oppressed and those who serve as inspiration today.

Postcards act as a symbolic sharing of a journey, and that was their intended use on day two, as they were purchased to be sent home to grade eight administrator, Charlie McSpiritt. However, postcards took on a new meaning, a representation of respect, when the manager of Souvenir City gave tour leader, Jason Lafreniere, stacks of free postcards because she felt the students from Torrington were among the most respectful groups that had entered the store in recent history.

Lafreniere and others, such as fellow field trip organizers, Mike Fritch and Deb Carroll, recalled this and other cases of Torrington students impressing the people they met along the way. At one museum a mother was heard telling her young child, You better behave like that when you are in eighth grade.

Yet another positive impression was formed at Arlington National Cemetery when a member of the Rolling Thunder motorcycle club, in attendance each year to honor veterans on Memorial Day weekend, told a parent chaperone that the 136 students were more attentive than most adults who come to witness the changing of the guard. He added that he had to tell a guy to shut up, yet he witnessed nothing but respect from the Torrington contingency.

Steps are a symbol of progress, and as the field trip progressed into day three, the steps of Congress provided some of the tours highlights. Senator Richard Blumenthal spoke with the group and took questions at the steps, discussing hot button topics as well as his current work on a privacy rights bill. Senator Chris Murphy had been called away for a meeting, but Connecticut Representative Jim Himes stopped by to photo bomb and say a quick hello. During the Capitol building tour, an impressive procession of Secret Service vehicles formed, signaling Vice President Mike Pences presence. High ranking government officials could be seen outside of the building, including Senator Bernie Sanders, who happily heeded a request for a group photo with Torringtons young scholars before heading off.

A wreath brings seasonal symbolism, and on this Memorial Day weekend, the Torrington Middle School sought to remember people who died while serving the countrys armed forces. The wreaths circular design is thought to be emblematic of eternal remembrance, a fitting image at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This wreath, however, was not the only symbol present.

People often form the most powerful symbols. TMSs wreath was delivered by four representatives of the student body. One such living symbol was Caitey Wootton, representing the power of the written word. In a close contest with nine other essays, Wootton wrote,

American soldiers go through the most difficult waters to aid our nation in freedom and liberty.

A symbol of dependability, Chase Brown shared the honor of wreath laying due to his perfect attendance through his entire middle school career.

Representing scholastic excellence, Amelia Russell earned a position by edging out other outstanding students with her 99.667 grade point average. Russells cousin, Honor Guard member Jordan Russell, would meet with the group afterwards to answer questions and share his experiences.

Finally, Sierra Doyle symbolized the schools values, selected by staff members among other celebrated nominees who have contributed positive actions and behaviors to Torrington Middle School and the community.

Returning home on Friday night, students were met by their families and assistant principal, Dr. Mary Ann Buchanan, who had helped to send them off earlier in the week. Perhaps the four days of the Washington, DC, trip will be remembered as a symbol of appreciation. Many students had expressed their adoration of the WorldStrides tour guides, as well as the bus drivers from Peter Pan. While at Mount Vernon, one student, Chris Angamarca, exemplified the palpable sense of appreciation, stating, Im blessed to be here.

For each student traveler, the lasting symbol of these memories might be an object, like a pair of shoes, a postcard, a set of steps, or a wreath. Perhaps some students may even look in the mirror and see a living symbol.NATOs Saber Strike 18 exercises involving some 18,000 troops from 19 nations have kicked off in Poland and the Baltic states, as the Western alliance looks to boost readiness on its eastern flank.

The June 3-15 maneuvers come as Poland has indicated it is considering a proposal to host a permanent contingent of U.S. troops in the way that Germany and Italy have done since World War II.

The United States leads a multinational NATO battle group in Poland, while allies Germany, Britain, and Canada command three others in the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, where the Saber Strike maneuvers will be held.

The long-standing U.S. Army Europe-led cooperative training exercise is designed to enhance readiness and interoperability among allies and regional partners, the U.S. Army said.

It added that the U.S.-led annual maneuvers will demonstrate the alliances determination and ability to act as one in response to any aggression.

The United States and NATO have bolstered their presence in Poland and elsewhere on the alliances eastern flank since Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine and its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.

An information document by the Polish Defense Ministry seen by news agencies suggests that Warsaw could spend $1.5 billion to $2 billion to help cover the cost of permanently basing a U.S. tank unit in Poland.

Russia immediately attacked the proposal, saying such a deployment "in no way creates security and stability on the continent."

NATO has deployed some 6,000 troops in the region, and the U.S. Army has established a new European headquarters in Poland to command the forces.

With reporting by AFP and The Stars & StripesMilitary rule, religious extremism, and war have long made Pakistan one of the world's toughest beats for journalists.

But Pakistani reporters say free media is now being shackled like never before, as veteran reporters have been leaving after experiencing threats, the nation's most popular TV station was forced off the air, and nationwide distribution of Pakistan's oldest newspaper has been halted.

The developments are threatening the independence of the already depleted ranks of free-press torchbearers, who have come under pressure from the all-powerful army, hard-line religious groups, and militant groups.

Threats, Kidnapping

Prominent Pakistani journalist Taha Siddiqui left Pakistan in January, shortly after armed men beat, threatened, and attempted to kidnap him in broad daylight as he took a taxi to the airport in the capital, Islamabad.

"The army and intelligence agencies were threatening me and I suspect the people who tried to kidnap me were from the army," says Siddiqui, speaking to RFE/RL from Paris, where he has relocated. "They do not like investigative reporting that uncovers the wrongdoings of those institutions."

A well-known reporter, the 33-year-old's work has appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian, and other Western media outlets. In 2014, he was awarded the Albert Londres Prize, the French equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize, for his coverage of Pakistan.

Siddiqui is known in his homeland for his critical reporting on the military, which has an oversized role in domestic and foreign affairs in the South Asian country.

The Islamabad bureau chief for India's World Is One News channel, Siddiqui says he was questioned and warned by the army after a 2015 article he wrote for The New York Times about torture and abuse at army-run detention centers. He followed that up with another critical story about the army confiscating land from farmers for a military-owned housing scheme.

He says he was warned by intelligence officers that he was "writing against the country's interests and we will make a fake drugs case against you."

The Pakistani military and its notorious intelligence services have long been accused of stifling independent media and silencing opposition through intimidation, censorship, and even assassination.

'Muzzling Of Debate'

Pakistani media have come under unprecedented pressure in recent months.

Since May 15, the distribution of the country's oldest newspaper, Dawn, has been disrupted across most of the country. The disruption came days after Dawn published an interview with ousted Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, in which the former premier criticized the army and alleged it was backing militants who carried out the deadly attacks in the Indian city of Mumbai in 2008.

On April 1, Geo TV, part of Pakistan's largest commercial media group, Jang, was taken off the air in many parts of the country. The ban only ended a month later after talks between the military and the network's chiefs, who reportedly pledged to make sure the networks coverage does not cross the militarys line.

Meanwhile, prominent Pakistani columnists have had articles rejected by news outlets. Pakistani journalist Syed Talat Hussain wrote on Twitter on May 28 that his regular column was rejected for its content.

Pakistani writers have also seen the quashing of articles that cover antigovernment protests by the Pashtun ethnic minority, toward which the army has been accused of forced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and discrimination. Journalist Mosharraf Zaidi said on April 17 that his story about the Pashtun Protection Movement was rejected.

'Extreme Level Of Censorship'

Some journalists have resorted to self-censorship to keep their jobs and remain safe.

"Everyone is exercising self-censorship and even I was doing the same," says Siddiqui. "Only those media and journalists who toe the line or observe self-censorship can survive and continue their professional work without threat."

Pakistan ranks 139th out of 180 countries listed on the World Press Freedom Index 2017, compiled by Reporters Without Borders, and threats to journalists are growing.

Raza Rumi, a TV anchor and respected reporter, narrowly escaped death when gunmen opened fire on his car in an attack that killed his driver in March 2014.

He is an outspoken critic of militant groups in Pakistan and the army's alleged support for militant groups in neighboring India and Afghanistan.

Shortly after the assassination attempt, Rumi moved to the United States, where he has continued his career as an editor for Pakistan's Daily Times.

"There is an extreme level of censorship being applied to media," says Rumi, who is based in New York. "There are no formal directives, but everybody has seen the fate of two major media outlets, Geo and Dawn, and everybody is scared of crossing the line."

Rumi is planning to visit Pakistan again for the first time since the attack on his life. But he insists he cannot work as a reporter in Pakistan in the current climate.

"I'm scared and do not feel very comfortable," he says. "The killers of my driver have been detained but not punished yet."

Fear of retribution even haunts journalists who have fled Pakistan.

Cyril Almeida, a leading columnist and assistant editor at Dawn, was barred from leaving the country in 2016 shortly after he wrote an article about a rift between the government and the military. He left for New York when the government order was lifted weeks later.An Iraqi court has sentenced a French woman to life in prison for membership in the Islamic State (IS) extremist group.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was initially sentenced to six months in prison for entering the country illegally.

However, the court ordered a retrial after prosecutors presented new evidence, including photos of her French husband posing with IS fighters.

On June 3, Boughedir, 27, was found guilty of belonging to IS and handed a life sentence -- which in Iraq is equivalent to 20 years.

The verdict can be appealed.

Boughedir appeared in court with her 2-year-old daughter. Her three other children are now back in France, the AFP news agency said.

Boughedir told the judge that she was duped by her husband, who allegedly threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS.

Boughedir's husband is believed to have been killed in Mosul, during an operation to recapture the Iraqi city from IS militants.

Boughedir, who was detained in Mosul last year, was represented by three lawyers.

Last week, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said that Boughedir was a "combatant" and a IS terrorist.

"When you go to Mosul in 2016, [you go] to fight, so she is judged on the location of her actions...She fought against Iraqi units, she is judged in Iraq, the minister said on French television channel LCI.

Iraq detained thousands of people, including hundreds of foreigners, as it recaptured Mosul and other areas from the militants.

Based on reporting by AP and AFPIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has postponed a debate on legislation to recognize the mass killing of Armenians under the Ottoman Empire during World War I as genocide.

The Foreign Ministry said in a statement on June 3 that Netanyahu accepted its recommendation to postpone the debate until after Turkeys upcoming polls over concern it "would likely help the Turkish president in the election campaign.

The move comes amid a low point in relations between Israel and Turkey, which is scheduled to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on June 24, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan seeking a new mandate.

The World War I-era mass slaughter and deportation of up to 1.5 million Armenians by Ottoman Turks is a highly sensitive issue in both Armenia and Turkey.

Armenia says it is one of the first examples of genocide in modern history, predating the Holocaust carried out by Nazi Germany against more than 6 million Jews during World War II.

Turkey objects, saying that Armenians died in much smaller numbers and because of civil strife rather than a planned, systemic effort by the Ottoman government against the Christian minority.

At least 23 countries, including France and Germany, recognize the killings as genocide.

The Israeli parliament on May 23 approved a motion to hold a plenary debate on recognizing the Armenian genocide.

According to local media reports, two bills on the issue were submitted by members of both the ruling coalition and opposition, and the Ministerial Committee on Legislation is now due to debate them.

Deputy Itzik Shmuli from the opposition Zionist Union slammed the Israeli Foreign Ministrys explanation on the need to delay the debate as "false and ridiculous."

"If foreign ministries in the world would act in such a cowardly and utilitarian manner on recognizing the Holocaust, where would we be today?" he tweeted.

A new round of diplomatic confrontation arose between Israel and Turkey following the killing of dozens of Palestinians by Israeli soldiers during protests on the Gaza border last month.

Erdogan called Israel a "terror state" and compared its actions against the Palestinians to the Nazi persecution of the Jews.

Netanyahu fired back, saying the Turkish presidents hands were stained with the blood of countless Kurdish citizens in Turkey and Syria.

Ankara recalled its ambassador to Israel and expelled the Israel envoy and consul-general over the dispute, while Israel ordered the Turkish consul in Jerusalem to leave.

Israel is home to a small Armenian community, with many members living in Jerusalems Armenian Quarter.

With reporting by AFP, The Jerusalem Post, and Israel National NewsThousands of opposition supporters have protested outside Macedonia's main government building in the capital, Skopje, to demand early elections.

The VMRO-DPMNE party, which ruled from 2006-17, held a large antigovernment demonstration on June 2 against the left-wing government's one-year rule and wants early elections held in March or April next year.

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev, 43, took power in May 2017 after 11 years of conservative rule amid a deep political crisis sparked by a wiretapping scandal in 2015.

The opposition claims the government is incompetent, has wrecked the economy, lowered wages and pensions, and allowed corruption to flourish.

It also claims the government has damaged national interests by negotiating with Greece over a possible new name for the country.



Hristijan Mickoski, the leader of the VMRO-DPMNE, said his party will not support any constitutional effort to change the name of the country.

"We are very clear on this subject," he told the protest crowd.

Macedonia's dispute with Greece dates back to 1991, when it peacefully broke away from Yugoslavia, declaring its independence under the name Republic of Macedonia.

Athens objected to its neighbor's new name, saying it implied a territorial claim over Greece's northern province of Macedonia, which borders the Balkan country.

Zaev has pushed for a compromise agreement with Greece that envisages Macedonia adding a modifier to its name, such as Northern or Upper, but nationalists in both countries have resisted a deal.

Because of the issue, Greece has blocked Macedonias bids to join the European Union and NATO.

Based on reporting by AP and AFP

Almost 3.7 million children in Afghanistan are unable to go to school due to ongoing conflict, poverty, and discrimination against girls, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) says.

The figure, part of the Global Initiative On Out Of School Children report released on June 2, represents almost half of all Afghan children aged between 7 and 17.

It marks the first time that the out-of-school rate has increased since 2002, according to the study, which calls for a continued commitment on the part of the Afghan government and civil society groups to address the matter.

Now is the time for a renewed commitment to provide girls and boys with the relevant learning opportunities they need to progress in life and to play a positive role in society, UNICEF Afghanistan Representative Adele Khodr said in a statement.

The report indicates that persistent discrimination against girls is a major factor driving down school attendance. Girls account for 60 percent of those being denied an education.

In the provinces of Kandahar, Helmand, Wardak, Paktika, Zabul, and Oruzgan, up to 85 percent of girls are not attending school.

But the study also notes that dropout rates are low, with 85 percent of boys and girls who start at the primary level managing to stay in school to complete all grades. The figures are even higher for those who begin at the secondary-school level.

The report comes as the Western-backed government in Kabul has been struggling to fend off the Taliban and other militant groups since the withdrawal of most NATO troops in 2014.

The Taliban has stepped up its attacks against Afghan security forces as well as government officials across the country since the announcement of its spring offensive in April.

Khodr insisted that getting girls and boys into school is so much more than sitting in class. She said it is about providing routine and stability, which is a wise investment given the insecurity across parts of the country.

When children are not in school, they are at an increased danger of abuse, exploitation, and recruitment, she also said.Voters in Moldovas capital are heading to the polls on June 3 for the second round of a snap mayoral election that is seen as a test for the countrys political parties ahead of parliamentary polls later this year.

The candidate of the Moscow-friendly Socialist Party, Ion Ceban, and Andrei Nastase from the pro-European party Dignity and Truth Platform (DA) are facing off in Chisinau.

Ceban won the first round on May 20 with nearly 41 percent of vote, while Nastase obtained just over 32 percent, election authorities said.

The turnout was 35.5 percent.

Early mayoral elections were also held in Moldova's second-largest city, Balti, where Nicolai Grigorisin, the candidate of the pro-Russia Our Party, won in the first round with 61 percent of the vote.

The snap elections to elect the mayors of Chisinau and Balti for one year were called after the mayor of Chisinau, Dorin Chirtoaca, from the pro-European Liberal Party, and Balti Mayor Renato Usatii, the Our Party founder and leader, resigned to protest against criminal cases against them, which they say are politically motivated.. Hours after the government was approved by the Italian president, Sergio Mattarella, Salvini said: Open doors in Italy for good people and a one-way ticket for those who come to Italy to create commotion and think they will be taken care of. Send them home will be one of our top priorities. He previosly campaigned on a pledge to deport about 500,000 migrants living illegally in Italy. However its appreciated that Italy did not have the resources or legal flexibility to pursue costly mass deportations. Under current rules, every migrant who is deported by plane must be escorted by two Italian agents, at an estimated cost of 3,000 (2,600) per migrant.

Calogero Santoro who is the head of Girasoli, a non-profit organisation that promotes the integration of migrants and refugees in local communities in Sicily, said: Fake news about migrants have spread all over Italy during the last campaign. My concern is the future of asylum seekers, people who are eligible for a refugee status. What will happen to them under [Salvinis] League? Migration experts are also worried by the possibility that Salvini could reduce funding for reception centres which have already been criticised by human right groups for poor conditions.Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

There is no vacancy for the prime minister's post in 2019, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi today said, and expressed hope that BJP-led coalition will retain power in the next Lok Sabha polls. The "anti-Modi front" has over two dozen aspirants for the prime ministerial post but they will not be able to provide stability, he claimed. Naqvi alleged that some political forces were trying to disturb the Narendra Modi-led government's agenda of development, peace, and prosperity by creating fear among the minorities. Narendra ModiThe minorities in India are safe and their rights are secured, he asserted. "The people of the country are with the development agenda of the Modi-led government. But there are some people who want to hamper it," he said at a press conference here. "There are some people who are standing with the anti-Modi front but they should understand that there is no vacancy for the prime minister's post in 2019," he said.? People are with the development agenda of the Modi-led government: NaqviThe minority affairs minister was in Goa to highlight the achievements of the central government led by Narendra Modi, in the four years it has been in power. Naqvi said Modi was committed to inclusive growth and development. "You can see results on the ground. The government has taken development as a mission," he asserted. "The 'common minimum commitment' of the anti-Modi alliance is corruption, contradiction, and confusion, while our biggest fight is for development with dignity," he said.

Right from demonetization to surgical strike, important decisions are taken by the prime minister and the positive impacts are seen in the country, he said. Naqvi said the anti-Modi morcha has more than two dozen aspirants for the prime ministerial post who, he claimed, will fight among themselves. "There is a long queue in the anti-Modi front. So they cannot provide stability." Naqvi ruled out the possibility of the BJP changing its face in the next year's Lok Sabha polls.? Modi was committed to inclusive growth and development: Naqvi"Our leader is Narendra Modi and under his leadership, we would fight the 2019 elections to seek votes from people of the country. I am confident that people are in favor of development, and are against an anarchist alliance," he said. To a question, Naqvi said a political consensus is required to hold simultaneous polls for the Lok Sabha and the state Legislative Assemblies. Simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and the Vidhan Sabha are in the interest of the country.

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"That is why the prime minister requested all political parties to think about it." Some political parties have responded positively, some have not, he said. "I feel in the interest of democracy and the country, it is necessary that simultaneous elections are held. But for that you require consensus among the political parties," he said. To a question on alleged fear among minorities, Naqvi said, "Unfortunately some political forces are trying to disturb the agenda of development, peace, and prosperity."

"If you leave some isolated incidents, in the last four years there have been no major communal incidents. Some isolated incidents have happened. And those isolated incidents were controlled timely and action was taken," he said. The minister said those involved in such incidents were arrested and sent to jail. "The minorities in India are safe and their rights secured compared to any other democratic country (in the world).? BJP is honest to the alliance and committed towards it: NaqviOur stand towards the development of minorities is not related to voting bank," he said. In the last four years, the Centre has worked for the weaker sections and minorities, he said. "Before we took over, the school dropout rate among girls from the minority communities was over 72 percent, now it has reduced to 42 percent. Our commitment is that in the coming two years, we want zero dropout rate from any section of the society, especially the poor and minorities," he said.

Listing out the government's welfare schemes, he said in the last four years, the Centre has distributed scholarships worth Rs 2.66 crore to minorities, of which more than 50 percent was meant for girls. On the employment front for minorities, he said, the government has provided jobs to 5.43 lakh people and created employment opportunities in the last four years.

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To a question on if the BJP would continue its tie-up with other NDA partners in the 2019 elections, Naqvi said the BJP is honest to the alliance and committed towards it. "In 2014, we had the full mandate and numbers. But we formed the government with the alliance partners. Even today, we are honest to the alliance and we are committed to it," he added.Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti

Terming as "unfortunate" the fresh ceasefire violation along the International Border in Jammu region, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today said the DGMOs of India and Pakistan should hold dialogue again and stop the bloodshed. The ceasefire violation on the border, in which two BSF jawans have been martyred and several civilians injured, is very unfortunate and it happened despite DGMO-level talks. It should not have happened, Mehbooba told reporters here. Fresh ceasefire violation along the International Border in Jammu regionThe chief minister said people on both sides of the border are getting killed by the firing and called upon DGMOs of both the countries to talk and end the bloodshed. People on both sides are dying. The DGMOs should meet again and talk and the shelling and bloodshed on the borders should be stopped, she said. On May 29, the DGMOs of India and Pakistan agreed to "fully implement" the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit" forthwith to stop border skirmishes in J&K. Bloodshed on the borders should be stopped: MuftiFollowing the conversation between Indian DGMO Lt Gen Anil Chauhan and Pakistan's Maj Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the two armies issued identical statements saying both sides agreed to implement the 15-year-old ceasefire understanding.Two small brush fires sprung up early Saturday afternoon, one in Pittsburg and one in Livermore, officials said.

A 23-acre brush fire broke out southeast of Pittsburg at Glen Canyon Circle and Chaparral Drive and was fully contained by 5:30 p.m.

The fire was reported just after 2 p.m., said Scott McLean, a spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

The forward spread has stopped, McLean said. Firefighters feel confident theyve mitigated it from spreading.

No structures were destroyed or threatened and no injuries were reported.

A second brush fire in Livermore, at eastbound Interstate 580 and Greenville Road, was causing major delays on the freeway. McLean said he did not yet know how big that fire was, but firefighters were responding. The right lane was closed as of 3 p.m. as firefighters battled the blaze.

Fire is working on it now, but theres not estimated time for it to reopen, California Highway Patrol Sgt. Robert Nacke said.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Now Playing: Wineries, schools, hotels and neighborhoods have been destroyed in the recent Bay Area fires. Video: Ted Andersen, SFGATE

McLean said the weather Saturday was prime weather for fires. Its really hot and dry, McLean said. Youre going to have some winds down in those areas with some currents, and some dry vegetation.

Sophie Haigney is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sophie.haigney@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SophieHaigneyLand deemed free of harmful radioactivity and safe for the city to occupy has now come under question as the scandal over the purported cleanup of San Franciscos biggest redevelopment site continues to grow.

On four portions of the former Hunters Point Naval Shipyard  an EPA Superfund waste site  almost all of the radioactivity measurements that were used to confirm the soils safety are suspect, according to a newly released analysis by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and two state agencies.

The measurements were collected by the Navy contractor Tetra Tech. The EPA discovered a widespread pattern of practices that appear to show deliberate falsification. The Navy earlier flagged signs of fraud in the same data.

Over the past year, the Navy and EPA have found similar problems with soil data in other parcels at the shipyard. But those parcels havent been handed off to the city for development to begin. This is the first time that regulators have discovered evidence of probable fraud in shipyard land that was already turned over to the city.

Although the four parcels in question are relatively small, they sit next to a 75-acre tract known as Parcel A, where a developer already has built about 300 homes and where people live and work. Because by federal law no land at the site can be transferred to the city without extensive checks for pollution, the transfer of these parcels points to broader dysfunction in the vetting process for all land at the former shipyard.

The EPA documented its findings in a March report that was sent to several public agencies, including the San Francisco Department of Public Health, which is responsible for monitoring the cleanup. However, the report was not released by the EPA or the city. Instead it was obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility, an environmental watchdog in Washington, D.C.

This is a situation that is sort of spiraling down, said Jeff Ruch, executive director of the environmental group.

The report contradicts the citys recent assurances that the shipyard is safe. During a tour of Parcel A on Wednesday, Amy Brownell, an environmental engineer with the citys health department, told The Chronicle that the contamination has been cleaned up across the shipyard. We can say definitively there are no public safety concerns or health concerns out here, she added.

Brownell, who has worked on the shipyard cleanup for 25 years, was copied on the EPA report that found fresh signs of fraud and raised new questions.

Your city public health officials would be the last people youd want in denial, Ruch said. You shouldnt have responsible city officials dissembling and suggesting that there arent problems here when theyre being told, quite explicitly, these are problems.

In an email, health department spokeswoman Rachael Kagan pointed to EPA statements verifying the health and safety of the Shipyard and said her department supports a reevaluation of the Parcel A site by the state. The DPH is 100% committed to protecting and promoting the health of everyone in San Francisco, she wrote. Brownell did not return emails and a phone call.

The environmental groups release of the report follows weeks of calls by alarmed residents to retest Parcel A. It also comes on the heels of criminal charges against cleanup managers on the shipyard project. In 2017, two former supervisors for Tetra Tech, the Navys main cleanup contractor, pleaded guilty to swapping contaminated dirt with clean soil to make it appear that tainted areas were free of harmful radiation. They were both sentenced to eight months in prison.

The shipyards history with radioactivity began decades ago when ships that had been used in the Pacific during nuclear bomb tests were brought to San Francisco to be cleaned with sandblast grit. From 1946 to 1969, the shipyard also housed the Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory, which used radioactive materials on rats, dogs and other animals to determine the effects of radiation on living organisms. The experiments produced barrels of radioactive waste and leached radioactivity into the buildings, pipes and soil.

Most shipyard operations ceased in 1974, and it was shut down as part of the U.S. Base Realignment and Closure process in 1991.

Since then, the Navy and San Francisco have been trying to orchestrate a federal cleanup and transfer of the shipyard, where a developer hopes to build more than 10,500 housing units, a hotel, schools and retail space on about 500 acres.

But questions over the accuracy of Tetra Techs soil tests emerged in 2012 when the Navy flagged anomalies in the soil data gathered on one piece of the site.

Despite that discovery  and a chorus of whistle-blowers who repeatedly told regulators and media outlets that Tetra Tech was lying  the $1 billion cleanup sped forward. The Navy allowed Tetra Tech to investigate and essentially exonerate itself, and the Navy and regulators continued to let Tetra Tech vouch for the safety of other pieces of the site, including the parcels now in question.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

One of the parcels, known as D-2, bulges up to Parcel A along its southern edge. The other three are utility corridors that touch Parcel A, thin strips of land called UC-1, UC-2 and UC-3. While UC-3 is still owned by the Navy, the other three parcels were transferred in 2015 to the citys Office of Community Investment and Infrastructure.

Tetra Tech was heavily involved. Not only did the company collect the radiation data on those parcels, Tetra Tech entities also wrote the official documents that declared the parcels suitable for transfer to the city. And regulators signed off.

The safety of anyone who lives there or intends to live or work there is dependent on accurate measurements and thorough regulatory oversight, said Daniel Hirsch, retired director of the environmental and nuclear policy program at UC Santa Cruz. And all of that broke down here. The land transferred when the measurements were almost entirely fraudulent. And every aspect of the review failed to catch it.

The four questionable parcels next to Parcel A are separated from inhabited areas by fences. Lennar Corp., the master developer of the site, is not currently doing construction there, according to Nadia Sesay, executive director of the citys investment and infrastructure agency.

In an interview Saturday, Sesay said she is troubled by the findings in the EPA report, and we will hold the Navy and the regulatory agencies accountable.

We want them, at the minimum, to clean the sites, she said. We just want them clean.

Jason Fagone and Cynthia Dizikes are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: jason.fagone@sfchronicle.com, cdizikes@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jfagone, @cdizikesWith San Franciscos mayoral campaign clock ticking down, tracking polls show Board of Supervisors President London Breed remains the top choice for the most voters, but that doesnt tell the whole story.

Given San Franciscos ranked-choice voting system, theres still room for either Supervisor Jane Kim or former state Sen. Mark Leno to overtake Breed with second- or third-choice votes and come out the winner.

And that is why you have seen Kim and Leno campaigning together on TV, in the mail and on the street, said longtime San Francisco political consultant John Whitehurst, who is not working with a candidate in Tuesdays election.

Kim and Lenos one-two strategy is to ask their supporters to cast their first vote for their favored candidate and their second-choice vote for the other half of the team. The hope is that whoever places second behind Breed in the first-round count will get the needed boost to overtake her in the ranked-choice phase.

Its unclear if it will work, but that is the plan they are executing, Whitehurst said. By far, Breed has the biggest field operation and the largest campaign out there  but the idea is that combined Kim and Leno campaigns could be even bigger.

The one-two strategy was first used in the 2010 Oakland mayoral election, when front-runner Don Perata, the former state Senate president pro tem, scored 35 percent of the first-place votes  only to be bested by Councilwoman Jean Quan in the subsequent ranked-choice count.

Quan had encouraged supporters of Councilwoman Rebecca Kaplan and others to list her second, as part of an Anybody but Don campaign. When the second-choice votes were added in, Quan overtook Perata, 51 to 49 percent.

The Oakland race, however, is different from the current San Francisco mayoral sweepstakes in one key aspect.

Perata, while popular with a good portion of the voters, was disliked by even more voters  setting up that anyone-but-Perata dynamic.

Eric Risberg / Associated Press

Breed, on the other hand, has consistently polled favorably with voters, by a 2-1 margin. Polls also show Breed picking up a healthy portion of No. 2 votes from other candidates.

Most insiders agree that, at this point, the result of Tuesdays contest will depend on who actually votes.

According to Whitehurst, vote-by-mail returns from the citys Department of Elections show that 80 percent of the people who have cast ballots early are older than 40  a demographic that would probably favor Leno, who has been in politics the longest, and Breed, who has the most active operation on the citys more moderate West side.

A big turnout of techies and other younger voters would probably favor Kim.

So far, however, the new San Francisco has yet to turn out, Whitehurst said.

Either way  no one is ready to call the race.

Revolving door: Psychiatrist Aaron Chapman got an unusual call from San Francisco probation officials the other day, alerting him that the man who had burglarized his Eureka Valley home 3 years ago was about to be sentenced.

It really hit me out of the blue, Chapman said.

After all, Chapman hadnt heard a word about burglar Phillip Benard since his arrest the day after the December 2014 break-in.

It wasnt the hardest case to crack. Benard had left behind a backpack containing his hospital release form and vials of medicine with his name printed on them.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

But then Benard isnt the brightest of burglars.

He has a lengthy sheet of burglary arrests and just as many releases from custody.

The most notable case was in 2012 when, after being given a break by Community Court Judge Lillian Sing, Benard walked out of the courtroom and promptly broke into the judges car with two cops standing nearby.

Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle

Fast-forward to last week, when, after pleading guilty to felony burglary for a string of four break-ins in 2014 that included Chapmans home, Benard was sentenced to six years in state prison.

But with credit for time served, Benard will be eligible for release as soon as a bed is available for him to take part in a year-long, anti-recidivism residential treatment program.

If he violates the terms, he goes back to jail, says district attorney spokesman Max Szabo. And if he picks up another case, he would face three strikes, with the potential for 25 years to life in state prison.

Which would certainly put an end to the revolving door.

San Francisco Chronicle columnists Phillip Matier and Andrew Ross appear Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays. Matier can be seen on the KPIX-TV morning and evening news. He can also be heard on KCBS radio Monday through Friday at 7:50 a.m. and 5:50 p.m. Got a tip? Call (415) 777-8815, or email matierandross@ sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @matierandrossNow that California fire investigators have finally started naming the causes of last falls deadly wildfires, the fate of the states largest utility  Pacific Gas and Electric Co.  hangs in the balance.

PG&E already faces more than 100 lawsuits blaming it for the fires that swept through Northern California in early October, torching nearly 8,900 buildings and killing 45 people. Late last month, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, issued reports on four of the least damaging fires, saying all had been caused by branches or entire trees hitting PG&E power lines during a wind storm.

In three of the instances, investigators concluded that PG&E may not have followed state regulations on trimming trees near electrical lines. They referred their findings to the district attorneys of Butte and Nevada counties for review.

If Cal Fire holds PG&E responsible for the most destructive fires  particularly the Tubbs Fire that leveled parts of Santa Rosa and killed 24 people  the 112-year-old company could face a major financial hit. Insurance claims from the fires total roughly $10 billion, far outstripping the $800 million in liability insurance that PG&E carries. Wall Street analysts consider bankruptcy of the company a possibility, albeit a remote one. The companys stock price has already fallen by more than a third since the fires.

The crowning blow, however, may come from Sacramento.

Legislators have not forgotten the fatal 2010 explosion of an old PG&E natural gas pipeline beneath San Bruno, a blast that led to a $1.6 billion fine from state regulators and a felony conviction from a federal court jury. State Sen. Jerry Hill, a Democrat whose district includes San Bruno, has warned that if Cal Fire investigators blame the Wine Country fires on negligence by PG&E, he may try to break up the company, which serves nearly 16 million people across Northern and Central California.

Thats a serious consideration, Hill said Friday. They may be too big to succeed.

The company, which employs about 20,000, has survived an existential threat before. PG&E filed for bankruptcy in 2001 at the height of the California electricity crisis, reorganizing and re-emerging three years later.

Paul Chinn / The Chronicle

Wall Street analysts doubt that being held liable for damages from the Wine Country fires could, by itself, drive PG&E back into bankruptcy. PG&E Corp., the utilitys parent company, made a $1.66 billion profit last year, on $17.14 billion in revenue.

They could weather this, by issuing debt or equity, said Andy Smith, energy and utilities analyst for Edward Jones. They could survive it.

But Smith wont entirely rule out the possibility of bankruptcy.

PG&E is waging a fierce and very public battle against a legal doctrine known as inverse condemnation, under which California utility companies can be held liable for fire damage tied to their equipment even if they followed the states safety rules.

Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

PG&E and the states other electric utilities want the Legislature to exempt them from inverse condemnation, or at least let them pass on those costs to their customers. Although Gov. Jerry Brown in March expressed vague support, saying that the state needed to update liability rules and regulations for utility services, no such legislation has passed to date.

Smith said that if PG&E does face a huge legal bill from the Wine Country fires, the company could decide to file for bankruptcy as a way of forcing Sacramento to deal with the inverse condemnation issue. Or bankruptcy could result if Hill and other state officials decide to make an example of PG&E.

Its a remote possibility, Smith said of bankruptcy. But I couldnt say with 100 percent certainty that it wouldnt happen.

PG&E has argued in court that the Tubbs Fire may have been started by someone elses wires, installed on a private property.

In response to Cal Fires finding that trees or branches hitting power lines sparked the fall fires in Butte and Nevada counties, PG&E said: Based on the information we have so far, we believe our overall programs met our states high standards.

PG&E officials say that without a change to inverse condemnation, the states electric utilities will become, in effect, insurers of last resort for wildfires. They consider the current system neither fair nor financially sustainable.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

It is so broken that Im optimistic there will be some sort of change, said Geisha Williams, CEO of PG&E Corp., at an annual shareholders meeting last month. But what that change will look like, I dont know.

A judge overseeing many of the lawsuits against PG&E recently rejected the companys legal arguments that inverse condemnation should not apply to it. Although the suits are proceeding, the attorneys involved are also waiting for the Cal Fire reports. The results could either add fuel to the lawsuits or undercut them.

We believe it was PG&Es lines and poles that caused it, said attorney John Fiske, who represents the counties of Mendocino, Napa and Sonoma in their litigation against PG&E. If for some reason it turned out that it was legally and factually not PG&Es responsibility, then that could jeopardize recoverability for thousands of people.

Should Cal Fire agree with PG&E that a private property owners electrical line started the massive Tubbs Fire, Fiske said he doubted the many people and public agencies that have sued PG&E in connection with the fire would hold the property owner liable for damages.

The destruction is in the billions of dollars, so I dont think anyone has any interest in that, he said.

David R. Baker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dbaker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @DavidBakerSFTrevor Noah filled downtown San Francisco with laughs  and sometimes uncomfortable giggles  with an hour-long Clusterfest set at the outdoor Colossal Stage on Friday, June 1.

Sticking with what he knows best, The Daily Show host talked about the headlines that have taken over the news cycle, from Roseanne Barr and President Trump to immigration, racism and gender inequality.

How is this real life? he asked the crowd, which roared with laughter after each punch line.

But his approach to many of the topics included hilarious yet sweet anecdotes that tied back into his upbringing in South Africa and his interracial family.

At one point, recalling a racist experience he had in Chicago, Noah impersonated the driver who yelled at him by screaming n (with a hard r) into the microphone so loudly it echoed through the corridors of Civic Center Plaza as a quick hush came over the crowd.

Clusterfest, it happened in a moment but it lasted a lifetime. It was the most amazing thing ever. I stepped into the road, he drove his truck around me, rolled down the window ... and I turned and said, Yo, my n! And he almost crashed and died, he deadpanned.

Ive never seen a human being question himself so many times in a split second in my life, he continued, laughing. And then I dont know why he did this, but Ill never forget that he did: He looked at his hands  as if he magically turned black  like I cursed him with a n bomb or something.

Earlier in the buildup of the joke, Noah also skillfully weaved in commentary on carbon emissions.

Im not going to lie. I was disappointed, he said of the racist driver, mostly because he was driving a pickup truck. I just felt that was an unnecessary stereotype he didnt need to perpetuate. I feel like if youre going to be racist, do something different. Think outside of the box. Drive a Prius. Yeah, its better for the environment and its quiet. You can sneak up on me. We both win.

Noah also joined Daily Show correspondents Roy Wood Jr., Ronny Chieng, Michael Kosta, Dulce Sloan and Desi Lydic in the Larkin Comedy Club at the start of the festival on Friday for a panel titled The Daily Show Live: A Conversation With Trevor Noah and the Worlds Fakest News Team.

Mariecar Mendoza is the arts content editor for The San Francisco Chronicle. Email: mmendoza@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SFMarMendoza Instagram: @sfchronicle_sceneU.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Dublin, expected severe blowback from the gun lobby when he began to talk openly about banning possession of assault weapons. But who could have imagined that it would extend to a Facebook post celebrating his sons first birthday?

Look at this, Swalwell said, pulling out his cell phone to scroll through the 230 comments on the post from earlier this month. Among the heart emoji and exclamations of adorable! and congratulations! were caustic calls for Swalwell to leave the country  or others that were more explicit and vile.

Its a good thing Nelson is too young to read.

They have focused their fire on every post I make, Swalwell said. They just light you up.

While Congress has failed to act on even the most modest gaps in gun laws  imposing universal background checks, raising the age to 21 on rifle sales, banning the bump stocks that essentially turn semiautomatic rifles into machine guns  the escalating wave of massacres has prompted Swalwell to go where few elected officials dare to venture. In a recent opinion piece in USA Today, the third-term congressman proposed a national buyback of all military-style semiautomatic assault weapons.

Once that buyback is completed, under Swalwells proposal, it would be illegal to possess the type of guns that have become the weapon of choice for mass killers. Four of the five worst shooting massacres in modern U.S. history have been inflicted in the past year and a half.

More Information Legally aquired, lethally used How the killers got their assault weapons: In the vast majority of U.S. firearm massacres, the guns were purchased legally. Newtown, Conn. Dead: 28 Date: Dec. 14, 2012 Gunman: Adam Lanza, 20 Weaponry: He used his mother's legally purchased guns, including an assault rifle from which most of the bullets were fired. Footnote: His mother, a gun enthusiast, was the first fatality of the rampage that ended with the slaughter of 20 schoolchildren (ages 6 and 7) and six adult staff members at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Orlando, Fla. Dead: 49 Date: June 12, 2016 Gunman: Omar Mateen, 29 Weaponry: Mateen purchased an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun after passing a full background check. Footnote: He had been investigated by the FBI two years earlier about concerns about possible ties to terrorist groups, but was never criminally charged. Even if he had been on a terrorist watch list, Congress in 2015 rejected an attempt to prohibit such individuals from buying guns. Las Vegas Dead: 58 Date: Oct. 1, 2017 Gunman: Stephen Paddock, 64 Weaponry: Paddock passed all background checks in purchasing the cache of 49 weapons found in his hotel room and homes. Footnote: He purchased 33 of those weapons, including semi-automatic rifles, in the year before the attack on the crowd at a country music festival - but there was no federal law to flag the growing arsenal. Parkland, Fla. Dead: 17 Date: Feb. 14, 2018 Gunman: Nikolas Cruz, 19 Weaponry: Cruz legally purchased an AR-15-style rifle from a licensed store about three miles from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, a year before the attack. Footnote: While Cruz had once been treated for mental health issues a year, federal law requires that a person be declared "mental defective" or committed to a mental institution to be blocked from purchasing a gun. Also, Cruz could not have purchased a handgun until he turned 21 - but was able to buy get the assault weapon. See More Collapse

Other countries have mental health issues ... other countries have video games that are violent ... but no other country comes close to having that number of assault weapons, if they allow them at all, Swalwell said in an Thursday interview in a Pleasanton coffee shop.

Ever so predictably, the National Rifle Association reacted as if Swalwell were advocating the repeal of the Second Amendment. He has made clear he is not: His ban would preserve myriad options for Americans to possess guns for self-defense, hunting or sport.

NRA TVs Dan Gongino said Swalwells comments were so dumb that just watching his explanation on Tucker Carlsons Fox News show would make a viewers IQ go down five or six points. Carlson mocked the idea, asking Swalwell, Do you think that you would have a civil war? Are you worried about that?

Its understandable why the absolutists in the gun lobby would be so unnerved.

What Swalwell is proposing would thoroughly pierce two of their main arguments against reinstatement of the 1994 ban on the manufacture or sale of semiautomatic guns, weapons with military style features, and large capacity magazines. (Authored by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., the ban expired in 2004 and Congress has failed to renew it.)

The NRA and other gun advocates dismiss any ban on new assault weapons as hopelessly futile because there already are so many in circulation (between 8.5 million and 15 million by the NRAs estimate; the AR-15 has been called Americas most popular rifle). They also trot out their old line that there are more than enough laws on the books, and its a matter of enforcing them.

Yet massacre after massacre has shown that the very existence of assault weapons, even if legally purchased after a background check, poses a public-safety hazard. The shooter in the Oct. 1, 2017, assault at a Las Vegas concert legally purchased 33 weapons in the previous year; the shooter in the Dec. 14, 2012, rampage at Sandy Hook Elementary School used his mothers legally purchased weapons.

Swalwell is well aware that his idea has no chance in the current Congress. He also concedes that it would be expensive  perhaps up to $15 billion  to buy back the guns. But the former prosecutor is adamant that the conversation must go beyond incremental tinkering with gun laws. He has been inspired, in part, by the courage and conviction of the students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., demanding action after their classmates were gunned down on Valentines Day.

Their outrage resonates among students in Swalwells East Bay district.

Ive heard Livermore High School students tell me that when a book or tablet drops off a desk, everyone jumps because it might be a gunshot, he said. When a fire alarm rings, they do this calculation in their heads: Should I stay and risk burning in a fire ... or do I flee and risk walking into a trap that a shooter has set?

The NRAs Institute for Legislative Action chastised Swalwell and others who have cited Australias success in buying back semiautomatic weapons after a massacre that claimed 35 lives in 1996. Australia has not had a mass shooting since.

Australian-style gun control ... is completely foreign to and incompatible with Americas history, tradition and rights of firearm ownership, the NRA group wrote on its website.

Swalwell invoked the mantra of the Parkland students.

Their right to live was paramount to any other right, he said.

Think of all the birthdays that wont be celebrated, in Parkland, Newtown, Las Vegas and too many other places, because of the lethality of firearms capable of mass destruction the crafters of the Second Amendment never could have anticipated.

John Diaz is The San Francisco Chronicles editorial page editor. Email: jdiaz@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JohnDiazChronMatier & Ross / SFFD Local 798

The catastrophic Wine Country fires last fall awakened every Californian to the need to rethink how we prepare for and fight fire. The whole landscape has changed, said Anne Kronenberg, executive director of the San Francisco Department of Emergency Services.

Kronenberg and San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White have joined other local and state departments seeking an additional $100 million allocation in the state budget to help put firefighters in the field, at the ready, before fire ignites. Of that, $13 million would go to update fire communications and GPS systems. There is a separate $25 million line item in the proposed budget to double available state fire engines by buying 110 new rigs, each to be housed and staffed by local fire departments.I recently spent several days at a conference in South Korea, during which time Donald Trump went from seeking a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to canceling it, then suggesting it might be back on.

What does Trump want? South Korean officials at the conference kept asking me. Notably, no one asked what the United States wants. They knew it was all about Trump.

Trumps goal has nothing to do with peace on the Korean Peninsula, or even with making America great again. Its all about making Trump feel great.

They are respecting us again, Trump exulted to graduating cadets at the U.S. Naval Academy on May 25. Winning is such a great feeling, isnt it? Nothing like winning. You got to win.

In truth, the United States hasnt won anything, in Korea or anywhere else. After 16 months of Trump at the helm, America is far less respected around the world than it was before.

The only thing thats happened is Trump is now making foreign policy on his own  without Americas allies, without Congress, even without the State Department. Trump may consider this a personal win, but it hardly makes America safer.

Some earnest foreign policy experts are seeking to discover some bargaining strategy behind Trumps moves on North Korea. Hint: Theres no strategy. Only a thin-skinned narcissist needing flattery and fearing ridicule.

Trump got excited about a summit with Kim when he thought it might win him praise, even possibly a Nobel Peace Prize. He got cold feet when he feared Kim might be setting him up for humiliating failure. Now hes back to dreaming about the Peace Prize.

The delicate balance in Trumps brain between glorification and mortification can tip either way at any moment, depending on his hunches. All international relations become contests of personal dominance.

He rejected the 2015 Iran nuclear deal for no apparent reason other than that former President Barack Obama had entered into it. Trump couldnt care less that by doing so he has harmed relations with our traditional allies, who pleaded with him to stay in. And hes undermined Americas future credibility. Why would any nation (including North Korea) enter into an agreement with the United States if it can break it on the whim of a president who wants to one-up his predecessor?

Ditto with the Paris climate accord. Obama got credit for it, so Trump wants credit for unilaterally sinking it.

Trump has demanded that Americas nuclear arsenal be upgraded. Why? Since 1970, the United States has been committed to nuclear nonproliferation. What changed? Trump. A more powerful arsenal makes him feel more powerful  respected again.

Its not about American interests in the world. Its about Trumps interests.

Wonder why Trump promised to lift trade sanctions on ZTE, Chinas giant telecom company? ZTE has been trading with North Korea and Iran, in violation of American policy. Everyone around Trump advised against lifting the sanctions.

Look no further than Trumps personal needs. ZTE is important to China, and China recently pledged a half-billion-dollar loan to a project connected to the Trump Organization.

While were on the subject of high-tech, why has Trump pushed the Postal Service to double the shipping rate it charges Amazon? I mean, isnt Amazon important to Americas high-tech race with the rest of the world?

The most likely explanation is that the CEO of Amazon is Jeff Bezos, whos far richer than Trump. Bezos also owns the Washington Post, and the Post has been critical of Trump.

As you may have noticed, the man doesnt like to be criticized. As Trump explained to Leslie Stahl of 60 Minutes during his campaign, his aim is to discredit you all and demean you all so when you write negative stories about me no one will believe you.

Any halfway responsible president of the United States would be worried about Russian meddling in U.S. elections. Protecting American democracy is just about the most important thing a president does.

But Trump has turned the Russia inquiry into a dark state conspiracy against him. And hes demanded that the Justice Department investigate the people who are investigating him.

With Trump, theres no longer American foreign policy. Theres only Trumps ego.

If peace is truly advanced on the Korean Peninsula, the Nobel Peace Prize shouldnt go to Trump. It should go to South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who has tirelessly courted the worlds two most dangerous megalomaniacs.

 2018 Robert Reich

Robert Reich is a professor of public policy at UC Berkeley. To comment, submit your letter to the editor at SFChronicle.com/letters.The California governors race has narrowed into a battle for second place, and Republican John Coxs campaign is cautiously optimistic that he has secured that spot after recent polls show the San Diego County businessman stretching his lead over a field that includes former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

Whether that optimism was well founded may not be known until early Wednesday, hours after the polls close, when the count from Villaraigosas base in Los Angeles County typically comes in. But many factors could change before Tuesdays California primary in this unpredictable year of Democratic enthusiasm, vociferous opposition to President Trump, millions spent by outside groups and a Latino electorate that could outperform expectations.

Theres widespread expectation that Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, front-runner in the polls, will finish first. Villaraigosa will need some help and a strong get-out-the-vote campaign to join his fellow Democrat in the November general election.

A poll by UC Berkeleys Institute of Governmental Studies, released last week, was in line with other recent surveys that indicate Cox is solidifying his advantage for second place. The Berkeley IGS Poll showed Newsom leading with 33 percent, Cox at 20 percent and Villaraigosa at 13 percent.

If youre Antonio Villaraigosa, you never want to see those kinds of numbers, said Mindy Romero, director of the California Civic Engagement Project at UC Davis and an expert on the Latino electorate, which Villaraigosa  the son of Mexican immigrants  is counting on in the primary.

But a big unknown is the strength of the Latino turnout, Romero said. The question is, how many will turn out? Its going to be a challenge to get out the vote.

The early returns havent been promising for Villaraigosa. Among voters who already have turned in their ballots, Latinos are represented at a level typical for a midterm California primary election, said Paul Mitchell, vice president of Political Data, a company that provides voter information to campaigns and regularly tracks turnout.

Its typical in a year thats supposed to be atypical. Not like one that was supposed to be a big blue wave, Mitchell said.

He cautioned that it was still early in voting terms. Were only in the third inning, Mitchell said.

He recalled that in the weeks before the 2016 general election, the Latino electorate flashed similarly paltry early vote numbers. But those numbers were buoyed by a large turnout on election day. That could happen again, he said.

We dont know if there is a ton of motivated voters on election day, Mitchell said. There are organizing efforts in the atmosphere and a lot of inspiration out there. We cant calculate how motivated people are to vote.

The polls may be undercounting Villaraigosas support among Latinos, said Matt Barreto, a professor of political science at UCLA and co-founder of the Latino Decisions survey. The Berkeley survey, for example, indicates that 32 percent of likely Latino voters back Villaraigosa, compared with 22 percent for Newsom and 11 percent for Cox.

It's unlikely that (Villaraigosa) will only win 32 percent of the Latino vote, Barreto said. The more likely scenario is that he takes around 50 percent.

Barretos advice for Villaraigosa: He should be knocking on every single Latino door in Los Angeles ... nonstop.

Thats what Villaraigosa did late last week, campaigning for 24 consecutive hours Thursday across Los Angeles County. Senior Villaraigosa campaign adviser Mike Madrid  a longtime GOP operative who is an expert on the Latino vote  was confident in a stronger-than-usual Latino turnout.

Thats what has happened everywhere else in the country in recent elections, Madrid said. Why would it not happen in the most diverse state with the most anti-Trump sentiment?

Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press

On the other side, Cox campaign manager Tim Rosales said he was cautiously optimistic that his candidate would advance to the general election. But there were warning signs in last weeks Berkeley poll  for example, only about half those surveyed knew enough about Cox to have an opinion, and, of those, the split between positive and negative views was about even. Of course, the news wasnt much better for Villaraigosa  more people have heard of him, but more people view him negatively than positively, the poll indicated.

More ominous for Coxs campaign is that a super PAC (political action committee) supporting Villaraigosa  Families and Teachers for Antonio Villaraigosa for Governor 2018  has raised $22 million, including a couple of seven-figure contributions last week, indicating that the groups wealthy backers of charter schools still have faith in him. Rosales wonders how they will be involved in the campaigns final hours.

With that kind of money coming in, who knows? Rosales said.

One thing he is confident of  Republican voters have been moving toward Cox ever since Trump tweeted his endorsement of him last month. That nod helped Cox consolidate Republican support and propelled him past GOP Assemblyman Travis Allen of Orange County in the governors race polls.

That was helpful, Rosales said. He is the leader of our party, and that means a lot.

While Villaraigosa is spending the last days of the primary season barnstorming across Southern California  and has Bay Area campaigning scheduled Monday  Cox is headlining only one public event per day. Its a sign of the campaigns confidence. At this point, after weeks of TV commercials and mailers, there isnt much more to say to voters, Coxs people figure.

Ive never thought that any voters are going to be choosing between Villaraigosa and John Cox, Rosales said. Republicans will vote for Republicans, Democrats will vote for Democrats, and (decline-to-state voters) will break where they ideologically fit all over the map.

And Rosales is encouraged that Villaraigosa has not been running away with the Latino vote. Whether that changes, we dont know. This election is all about who turns out.

Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoliKANSAS CITY, Mo.  Oakland doesnt steal bases much, but on Sunday at Kauffman Stadium, Dustin Fowler nabbed second to kick-start the As winning rally.

Fowler got into scoring position for Jed Lowries RBI go-ahead single and the As proceeded to score four times in the eighth en route to a 5-1 victory over the Royals, giving Oakland the series victory.

The As 12 stolen bases are the fewest in the major leagues.

It was big to get someone in scoring position, As manager Bob Melvin said of the teams first steal in 10 days. We love Jed up there in scoring-position type situation. Its a whole different situation if (Fowler) is not on second.

People dont realize how big that steal was, but if hes on first, it changes the dynamic of the inning for sure, As first baseman Matt Olson said.

After a walk by Khris Davis, Olson crushed a three-run homer into the fountains in right-center to complete the scoring. The As first baseman has six hits in his past 15 at-bats with four homers. He drove in eight runs in the three-game series at Kansas City.

Got the green light 3-0, and thats one of the best fastball counts you can get, Olson said. So he threw it over the plate, and I was ready for it.

Daniel Gossett started for Oakland and turned in nice work before leaving after five with elbow tightness, a diagnosis that creates concern for pitchers because occasionally it leads to Tommy John surgery. He will return to Oakland on Monday for an MRI exam, but Gossett, who hasnt previously had an elbow issue, said its merely a precaution.

I had a little discomfort in the fifth, he said. I just didnt want to overextend anything or have it lead to anything that might be worrisome.

ALSO: A's Matt Joyce to miss a few days with back tightness

The As have had trouble getting through a road trip without losing at least one starter to an injury. Andrew Triggs (right arm nerve irritation) and Brett Anderson (shoulder) both went on the disabled list on the previous road trip, and Trevor Cahill missed 10 days with an elbow impingement earlier in May. The As lost starters Jharel Cotton and A.J. Puk to Tommy John surgery before the season even started.

We have plenty of depth and Im glad we acquired the depth we did, but weve been losing quite a bit of it, Melvin said. Hopefully, this wont be a long-term thing and its a next-man-up type of thing.

Gossetts final two innings were particularly strong Sunday; he needed just eight pitches in the fourth and seven in the fifth.

Lou Trivino (3-0) replaced Gossett to start the sixth and got extra time to warm up because he hadnt had time to do so in the bullpen. He worked two scoreless innings and got the win. Yusmeiro Petit pitched a scoreless eighth, and Blake Treinen, whose family was on hand for the series from neighboring Kansas, had a 1-2-3 ninth.

Thats always a tough situation, get loose quick when youre not expecting it, Gossett said. That was a heck of a job. Lou came in and does nasty Lou stuff to get us out of it, Petit after him, and Treinen, his shutdown stuff.

Oakland struck first. Mark Canha  in left field with Matt Joyce out with back tightness  doubled in the third and Jonathan Lucroy singled him home.

The Royals responded in the bottom of the inning, with Jon Jay smacking a homer to right-center with two outs. It was the center fielders first homer since July 5, 2017, a span of 442 at-bats, which was the longest current streak in the majors by a non-pitcher.

MORE: Former A's team chaplain Donnie Moore remembered as an inspiration

In his previous start, Gossett gave up three consecutive two-out solo homers in a loss to Tampa Bay. On Sunday, he got out of the inning quickly when Whit Merrifield flied out to the warning track in center.

Should Gossett need a stay on the DL, as is typical with elbow discomfort, right-hander Chris Bassitt is likely to be recalled. Bassitt has been up twice this season but has yet to appear in a game. James Naile has pitched well at Triple-A Nashville but is not on the 40-man roster.

Paul Blackburn is on a rehab assignment at Nashville but he is probably a start or two away from being an option after missing the entire season with a right forearm strain.

DRAFT DAY: Numerous options, high hopes for A's with draft's ninth pick

Kendall Graveman, Oaklands Opening Day starter, is on Nashvilles DL with right elbow soreness, but an MRI exam showed no structural damage. Hes not expected to miss more than 10 days or so.

Susan Slusser is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sslusser@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @susanslusserA Richmond man was arrested after another man was stabbed in BARTs El Cerrito del Norte Station late Saturday, BART police said.

The incident happened inside the fare gates on the stations lower level about 10:21 p.m., BART spokeswoman Cheryl Stalter said. Police then closed the station for the rest of the night, and service through the station was replaced by buses. The station reopened when BART service resumed early Sunday.There has been a whole lot of nothing at AT&T Park the past two nights  and the Giants are liking it.

After Chris Stratton and three relievers combined on a six-hit shutout of the Phillies on Friday evening, Andrew Suarez and two relievers combined on a three-hitter in the Giants 2-0 victory Saturday.

Hes got the stuff, manager Bruce Bochy said of Suarez. Hes got velocity; he stayed at 93 (mph) all night. He commanded the ball so well. He was on the top of his game. You could see the confidence in him.

The Giants had lost Suarezs four previous starts; he absorbed the loss in three of them. He took a no-decision in a 6-5, 10-inning loss at Colorado on Monday  but also took some confidence from it.

Thats because after allowing a three-run homer to Trevor Story with one out in the first inning, the rookie left-hander gave up just one (unearned) run and three hits over the rest of his five-inning stint in which he struck out seven.

On Saturday, Suarez (2-4) backed up Mondays performance by throwing seven innings. He allowed three hits, struck out five and did not issue a walk.

It appeared the Phillies would take the lead in the third. With two outs and a man at third, Carlos Hernandez launched a drive to deep right-center.

Suarezs thoughts when Hernandez hit it: I was like, Oh, crap, he said.

Right fielder Andrew McCutchen turned Suarezs momentary fears into cheers. McCutchen motored a long distance and then made a high, backhanded grab as he reached the warning track.

McCutchen spent most of his decade in the big leagues as a center fielder for the Pirates; he won a Gold Glove in 2012. He thought that catch very well might have been his best as a right fielder.

I didnt think he had a chance for it, to be honest, Bochy said. Its a game-changing catch.

Philadelphia starter Vince Velasquez made an impression on the Giants in a 6-3 Philadelphia win May 10. He struck out 12 in six innings.

The right-hander, who turns 26 on Thursday, often avoided San Francisco bats Saturday evening. He racked up nine Ks, including the side in the fifth.

The Giants got to him in the sixth. Joe Panik, who reached base four times in his return from the disabled list Friday night, opened the inning with a double off the wall in center, the first of his two hits.

Brandon Crawfords grounder moved Panik to third. With the infield in, McCutchen tapped one toward shortstop. Scott Kingerys throw to the plate was high, enabling Panik to beat the tag from Jorge Alfaro. Make it 1-0, Giants. McCutchens sacrifice fly in the eighth inning scored Panik for an insurance run.

Items of note:

The Giants hadnt thrown consecutive shutouts against the Phillies since Sept. 26, 1963 and May 19, 1964.

The Giants had lost their previous 24 games when scoring three or fewer runs. Their only other such wins this year were their back-to-back 1-0 decisions in L.A. to open the season.

Steve Kroner is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer.The fatal shootings of two paralegals last week in Scottsdale, Ariz., have been linked to the killing of Dr. Steven Pitt, a forensic psychiatrist who was known for his work on high-profile cases such as the JonBenet Ramsey investigation and who was shot only miles away less than a day earlier.

Pitt, 59, was shot dead as he was leaving his office building Thursday evening, said Sgt. Vincent Lewis, a spokesman for the Phoenix Police Department.

Witnesses told police they had heard a loud verbal argument and they heard shots, Lewis said. Pitt was found on a walkway outside his office building, Lewis said, and pronounced dead at the scene by the Phoenix Fire Department.

Less than 24 hours later, Scottsdale patrol officers responded to a call Friday afternoon about a shooting about 10 miles from where Pitt was killed, the Scottsdale Police Department said.

When officers arrived, they found a woman with a gunshot wound to the head, police said in a statement. The victim had walked to a bus parked in the intersection to ask for help, the statement said. She was taken to a hospital, where she died.

The officers then followed a blood trail to a business where they found a dead woman who had been shot in the head.

Police identified the victims as Veleria Sharp, 48, and Laura Anderson, 49. Both worked as paralegals at the law firm of Burt Feldman Grenier in Scottsdale.

The double homicide occurred at the law office, police said, adding that there was a suspect, although they did not provide a name.

On Saturday, the Scottsdale Police Department announced in another statement: Our investigation has determined that this double homicide is related to the shooting of Steven Pitt.

Scottsdale Police also announced it was investigating a fourth homicide in the area. The police responded to a call Saturday about a shooting at a business midway between the other killings, said police Sgt. Benjamin Hoster. Police did not immediately know whether that shooting was related to the previous attacks, Hoster said.

Lewis, of the Phoenix police, described the suspect in Pitts killing as a bald, white male wearing a dark-colored hat. He said police had been receiving continual tips from the community but that no arrests had been made.

Lewis said he could not provide details about how the two crimes were connected or whether the same person was suspected of both crimes. Hoster said that although the department believes that the homicides are related, he could not offer details about the suspect or suspects. He also said police had not determined whether there was a connection between the paralegals law firm and Pitt and his practice.

Pitt and his firm, Steven Pitt & Associates, frequently consulted with the Phoenix Police Department, Lewis said. Pitt served as a consultant on several well-known cases, including the JonBenet Ramsey homicide investigation, the Columbine High School massacre and the Baseline Killer, who was found guilty in Arizona of murdering nine people more than a decade ago.

When asked if Pitts killing could have been connected to his work, Lewis said investigators havent ruled it out.

The verbal argument suggests they might have known each other, he said. Whether they knew each other personally or professionally, were looking into that.

Christina Caron is a New York Times writer.WASHINGTON  A lawyer tapped to lead a task force at the Environmental Protection Agency overseeing cleanups at the nations most polluted places worked until recently for a top chemical and plastics manufacturer with a troubled legacy of creating some of those toxic sites.

Steven Cook has been named as the new chair of the Superfund Task Force, which EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt created last year to revamp how the agency oversees cleanups at the more than 1,300 toxic sites.1 Tourists killed: Two Vietnamese tourists were found fatally stabbed in a Las Vegas Strip hotel room, and police have ruled the deaths a double homicide. The identities of the man and woman found dead Friday in a room at Circus Circus were not released. Police Lt. Ray Spencer said both victims were stabbed multiple times and that police had not made any arrests. Spencer said investigators believe the suspect or suspects were involved in an argument that a person reported hearing in the room early Friday.

2 Wildfire: A wildfire threatening a village in northern New Mexico has doubled in size to over 42 square miles as firefighters try to protect nearly 300 homes and a Boy Scouts camp. Fire management team spokeswoman Sandra Lopez said the fire on Saturday was burnng about 3 miles west of Cimarron, which was evacuated Friday. The fire so far has destroyed as many as 14 outbuildings at nearby Philmont Scout Ranch. Approximately 450 firefighters and other personnel are assigned to the blaze. Its cause is under investigation.HOUSTON  For years, she slept with a gun under her pillow, living in fear of a boyfriend who beat her, controlled her life and threatened to kill her and her children. Domenica, who came to this country illegally from Mexico in 1995 and became part of the booming immigrant community in Houston, said her partner was a U.S. citizen and often reminded her that she could be deported if she went to the police.

He told me nobody would help me, because I dont have papers, said Domenica, 38, who has a son and daughter with her boyfriend and asked that her last name not be used to protect them.WASHINGTON  An attorney for President Trump stressed Sunday that the presidents legal team would contest any effort to force the president to testify in front of a grand jury during the special counsels Russia probe, but downplayed the idea that Trump could pardon himself.

Rudy Giuliani, in a series of television interviews, emphasized one of the main arguments in a newly unveiled letter sent by Trumps lawyers to Special Counsel Robert Mueller in January: that a president cant be given a grand jury subpoena as part of the investigation into foreign meddling in the 2016 election.

But he distanced himself from one of their bolder arguments, which was first reported Saturday by the New York Times, that a president could not have committed obstruction of justice because he has authority to terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.

Pardoning himself would be unthinkable and probably lead to immediate impeachment, Giuliani told NBCs Meet the Press. And he has no need to do it. Hes done nothing wrong.

The former New York City mayor, who was not on the legal team when the letter was written, added that Trump probably does have the power to pardon himself, an assertion challenged by legal scholars, but says the presidents legal team hasnt discussed that option, which many observers believe could plunge the nation into a constitutional crisis.

I think the political ramifications would be tough, Giuliani told ABCs This Week. Pardoning other people is one thing; pardoning yourself is tough.

Trump has issued two unrelated pardons in recent days and discussed others, a move that has been interpreted as a possible signal to allies ensnared in the Russia probe.

The letter is dated Jan. 29 and addressed to Mueller from John Dowd, a Trump lawyer who has since resigned from the legal team. Mueller has requested an interview with the president to determine whether he had criminal intent to obstruct the investigation into his associates possible links to Russias election interference.

Giuliani said Sunday that a decision about an interview would not be made until after Trumps summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore, and he cast doubt that it would occur at all.

I mean, were leaning toward not, Giuliani told ABC. But look, if they can convince us that it will be brief, it would be to the point, there were five or six points they have to clarify, and with that, we can get this  this long nightmare for the  for the American public over.

If Trump does not consent to an interview, Mueller will have to decide whether to go forward with a historic grand jury subpoena.

Jonathan Lemire is an Associated Press writer.SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)



San Franciscans are set to vote next week for a new mayor in a high-profile race, following the unexpected passing last year of Mayor Ed Lee.



Among the candidates on the ballot for Tuesday's election are former Supervisor Angela Alioto, Michelle Bravo, President of the Board of Supervisors London Breed, Richie Greenberg, Supervisor Jane Kim, former Supervisor, state assemblyman and state Sen. Mark Leno, Amy Farah Weiss and Ellen Lee Zhou.



After Lee's death Dec. 12, Breed served as both acting mayor and Board of Supervisors president. However, once she announced she would run for mayor, progressive supervisors pushed for the appointment of a "caretaker" mayor who was not running.



They argued that having her act as mayor, Board president and District 5 supervisor not only gave her an unfair advantage in the upcoming election but also violated the separation of powers envisioned in the city's charter.



Supervisors voted for then-Supervisor Mark Farrell to be mayor, with his swearing-in taking place in late January.



In a separate matter last month, supervisors voted 6-5 to reject Farrell's nominations for the reappointments of two San Francisco Police Commissioners, Sonia Melara and Joseph Marshall, reasoning that the next elected mayor should weigh-in on nominations.



Farrell responded, saying he was "extremely disappointed" that the board chose such a crucial time to politicize the appointment process.



In a final push for the coveted seat, several candidates have kicked their mayoral campaigns into high gear this week.



Voters can cast their vote at their local polling place Tuesday or at the City Hall Voting Center, open every day, including this weekend, up until Election Day at 8 p.m. For more information, voters can visit https://sfgov.org/elections/.





Copyright  2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.SEBASTOPOL (BCN)



Police were unable to apprehend a motorcyclist after he led officers on a high-speed pursuit through Sebastopol this evening.



The chase began at 5:10 p.m. in north Sebastopol and continued into a remote area off of Green Valley Road, police said.



A man on an orange dual sport motorcycle in a black helmet drove recklessly and almost lost control of his vehicle several times, police said.



Sonoma County sheriff's deputies assisted in the pursuit and Sebastopol police followed the man until he turned down a private dirt driveway, police said.



The motorcyclist went down a steep dirt trail that was inaccessible to police and officers ended the chase. A helicopter searched for the suspect but did not locate him.



Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to call police at (707) 829-4400.





Copyright  2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)



A 63-year-old San Francisco woman was convicted Friday of vehicular manslaughter and reckless driving after she hit and killed a 16-year-old boy in September 2013.



Jennie Zhu was driving a Mercedes SUV at a high rate of speed at Pine and Polk streets at 7 a.m. on Sept. 27 when the crash occurred, according to prosecutors.



She sped past a patrol vehicle and continued at speeds over 40 mph in a 25 mph zone. She continued speeding and crashed into a gold minivan that was stopped at a traffic light, prosecutors said.



The minivan was severely crushed and three other vehicles were damaged.



Kevin San, a 16-year-old inside the minivan, suffered a fatal head injury and died at the scene. He was a student at Lincoln High School.



His mother and sister suffered major injuries and were taken to the hospital, in addition to Zhu.



Surveillance cameras, patrol officers and several witnesses observed the crash.



"This verdict is a reminder that driving at dangerous speeds turns your vehicle into a deadly weapon, and that puts everyone at risk," San Francisco District Attorney George Gascn said in a news release.





Copyright  2018 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.BEIJING  China cautioned Sunday after another round of talks on a sprawling trade dispute with Washington that any deals they produce will not take effect if President Trumps threatened tariff hike on Chinese goods takes effect.

The warning came after delegations led by U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Chinas top economic official, Vice Premier Liu He, wrapped up a meeting on Beijings pledge to narrow its trade surplus. Ross said at the start of the event they had discussed specific American exports China might purchase, but the talks ended with no joint statement and neither side released details.

The White House threw the meetings status into doubt Tuesday by renewing a threat to impose 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion of Chinese high-tech goods in response to complaints Beijing steals or pressures foreign companies to hand over technology. The event went ahead despite the move, but Beijing said it reserved the right to retaliate.

Tuesdays announcement revived fears the conflict between the two biggest economies might dampen global growth or encourage other governments to raise their own barriers to imports.

If the United States introduces trade sanctions including a tariff increase, all the economic and trade achievements negotiated by the two parties will not take effect, said the Chinese statement, carried by the official Xinhua News Agency.

Trump is pressing Beijing to narrow its trade surplus with the United States, which reached a record $375.2 billion last year. That comes at the same time Trump has riled some of Americas closest allies with the imposition of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.

After a three-day meeting of finance ministers from the G7 industrial nations that ended Saturday in Canada, Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau issued a summary saying the other six members want Trump to hear their message of concern and disappointment over the U.S. trade actions. Allies including Canada and the European Union are threatening retaliatory tariffs.

Trump has threatened to raise tariffs on a total of up to $150 billion of Chinese goods. Tuesdays announcement gave no indication whether the other increases might also go ahead. In response, China threatened to retaliate by raising import duties on $50 billion of American goods.

Joe McDonald is an Associated Press writer.LJUBLJANA, Slovenia  A right-wing opposition party led by a former prime minister won the most votes in Slovenias parliamentary election Sunday, but not enough to form a government on its own, according to preliminary results.

The State Election Commission said after counting some 90 percent of the ballots that Janez Jansas Slovenian Democratic Party received around 25 percent of the vote. The second-place anti-establishment List of Marjan Sarec trailed with 12 percent.

The Social Democrats came in third with nearly 10 percent, while the Modern Center Party of the outgoing prime minister, Miro Cerar, and the Left both received around 9 percent.

The preliminary tally means no party secured a majority in Slovenias 90-member parliament, and the likely next step is negotiations to form a coalition government.

Slovenia, once part of the former Yugoslavia, joined the European Union in 2004 and has used the euro as its official currency since 2007.

Jansa, who served as prime minister during 2004-08 and 2012-13, tweeted that we do not fear tomorrow; we are looking forward to it.

However, postelection negotiations could keep Jansa away from another term in office since other groups have suggested they were unwilling to form an alliance with him.

Runner-up Sarec reiterated Sunday that a coalition with Jansa was not an option and said he hoped his party would lead a future coalition government.

Jansa is an ally of Hungarys anti-immigration prime minister, Viktor Orban. His election success mirrors the growth of right-wing populism in central and eastern Europe following a large influx of migrants from the Mideast and Africa.

A government led by Jansa would shift Slovenia to the right and add an anti-immigrant voice to the European Union.

Ali Zerdin and Jovana Gec are Associated Press writers.Paris, TX (75460)

Today

Thunderstorms, some heavy this evening, then periods of rain late. Potential for flooding rains. Low 67F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall possibly over one inch..

Tonight

Thunderstorms, some heavy this evening, then periods of rain late. Potential for flooding rains. Low 67F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall possibly over one inch.President Trump is considering giving U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman more authority over the U.S. outpost that handles Palestinian affairs, five U.S. officials said, a shift that could further dampen Palestinian hopes for an independent state.

Any move to downgrade the autonomy of the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem  responsible for relations with the Palestinians  could have potent symbolic resonance, suggesting American recognition of Israeli control over east Jerusalem and the West Bank. And while the change might be technical and bureaucratic, it could have potentially significant policy implications.

As president, Trump has departed from traditional U.S. insistence on a two-state solution for the Mideast conflict by leaving open the possibility of just one state. As his administration prepares to unveil a long-awaited peace plan, the Palestinians have all but cut off contact, enraged by Trumps decision to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem.

The deliberations come as Friedman, who has pushed for changes to the consulate since he arrived in Israel last year, faces growing indignation in the U.S. over partisan comments and other actions in which he has publicly sided with Israel over its critics. On Thursday, a top Democratic lawmaker even suggested Friedman should be recalled after he waded into domestic U.S. politics on Israels behalf, telling an Israeli newspaper that Democrats have failed to support Israel as much as Republicans.

For decades, the Jerusalem consulate has operated differently than almost every other consulate around the world. Rather than reporting to the U.S. Embassy in Israel, it has reported directly to the State Department in Washington, giving the Palestinians an unfiltered channel to engage with the U.S. government.

That arrangement was relatively clear-cut before Trump moved the embassy. Until Trumps decision in December to move it from Tel Aviv, the United States did not recognize Jerusalem as Israels capital. The Jerusalem consulate provided services to Americans in Jerusalem and also served as the de facto U.S. embassy to the Palestinians, who claim east Jerusalem for the capital of a future independent state.

But since Trump earlier this month moved the embassy to Jerusalem, the situation has become more complicated. Now the U.S. maintains an embassy in one part of the city and a separate consulate less than a mile away, potentially creating confusion about who has ultimate authority if, for example, an American citizen needs help and turns to the U.S. government.

No final decision has been made about what changes to make to the consulates chain of command. But the embassy, run by Friedman, is expected to end up with ultimate authority over the consulate, said the officials, who requested anonymity.

It wasnt clear precisely when the changes would be made, although one official said the administration is waiting until current Consul General Donald Blome leaves Jerusalem over the summer, possibly in July.

Josh Lederman and Matthew Lee are Associated Press writers.CITY HALL -- Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Saturday he plans to diversify the city's specialized high schools by eliminating the admissions test over the next three years. The plan also calls for reserving 20 percent of seats in specialized schools for low-income students who just missed the test cut-off starting in September 2019.

"There are talented students all across the five boroughs, but for far too long our specialized high schools have failed to reflect the diversity of our city," de Blasio said in a statement. "We cannot let this injustice continue. By giving a wider, more diverse pool of our best students an equal shot at admissions, we will make these schools stronger and our city fairer."

The mayor called the widely criticized current admissions system to the city's elite schools in an op-ed on Chalkbeat a "monumental injustice."

The administration said that currently specialized high schools make 5,000 admissions offers to incoming ninth graders, but this year just 172 of those students were black and 298 of them Latino.

Of the nearly 600 middle schools citywide, the city said half of the students admitted to specialized high schools last year came from just 21 of those schools.

All eight of the city's specialized high schools, including Staten Island Technical High School, base their admissions solely on the SHSAT, a test the mayor called "a roadblock to justice, progress and academic excellence."

Getting rid of the test still requires state legislation, which Assemblyman Charles Barron (D-Brooklyn) has sponsored.

The mayor said the test would then be replaced over the next three years with a new admissions process that would look at top performing students in every middle school.

According to the administration, based on modeling of current offer patterns, 45 percent of offers would go to black and Latino students -- compared to nine percent of current offers. In addition, 62 percent of offers would go to female students, compared to 44 percent currently.

The administration said on its own the city could immediately expand the Discovery program, which is a program designed to increase enrollment of low-income students at specialized high schools.

In addition to expanding the program to 20 percent of seats at each specialized high school, the mayor said the city would adjust the eligibility criteria so that only students in high-poverty schools at or above 60 percent on the city's economic need index would receive offers through Discovery.

Expanding the Discovery program will cost about $550,000 annually.

"As a lifelong educator, a man of color, and a parent of children of color, I'm proud to work with our Mayor to foster true equity and excellence at our specialized high schools," Chancellor Richard A. Carranza said in a statement. "With the partnership of the state Legislature, we're going to live up to what our public schools and what New York City are truly about - opportunity for all. This is what's right for our kids, our families, and our City."STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Staten Island youths marched with thousands of demonstrators across the Brooklyn Bridge Saturday for a rally against gun violence in Manhattan.

About 40 students, protestors and politicians gathered at Staten Island Borough Hall early Saturday morning before their commute into Brooklyn.

"Today's focus is addressing gun violence in urban communities," said Lindy Crescitelli, founder of March For Our Lives New York. "One misconception is we only care about school shootings, but we care about gun violence everywhere.

"And all of New York is united on the issue to end gun violence in all communities."

Local officials in attendance included Councilwoman Debi Rose; Assemblyman Matthew Titone; Democratic Congressional candidates Max Rose, Omar Vaid and Michael Devito; Assembly candidate and Community Activist Bobby Digi; and Assembly candidate Patricia Kane.

March For Our Lives New York organizers, including Susan Wagner High School senior John Papanier, spoke about the "unacceptable amount" of mass shootings that have taken place across the country within the past few years.

"If we can't be safe in a Waffle House, a church, a school, we can't be safe anywhere," Papanier said. "We must save our voices so we are loud enough for Washington to hear us on Election Day."

After the Borough Hall rally, the group set out to join the masses for a much larger gathering at Korean War Veteran's Plaza in Brooklyn. From there, throngs marched across the Brooklyn Bridge toward Foley Square in Manhattan.

Marchers were garbed in orange attire, the color synonymous with solidarity during Gun Violence Awareness Weekend.

Papanier says he was overwhelmed with the turnout from New Yorkers, specifically from teenagers and young adults.

"I have never been so proud of this generation," he said. "The young people will get change and will win on [gun control]."

The citywide march and rally was organized by Youth Over Guns, a gun violence prevention organization in New York City. The group was formed after the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in February.

Papanier says it's the memory of gun violence victims that drives him to push for change any chance he gets.

"We all have a responsibility to fight for those lives that were lost," he added. "We can't allow this to happen to anyone else."To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account.

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A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much!Not that long ago, Elon Musk infuriated conservatives.

He was the man with (government subsidised) plans to usher in an era of mass market electric cars and plentiful clean energy. In a local context, he sensationally intervened in South Australia's energy crisis last year, resulting in the world's biggest battery being built in the state, to the delight of the (then) Labor government, and the chagrin of the Liberals.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk (centre) and SA Premier Jay Weatherill (right). Credit:AAP Image/Ben Macmahon

Yet over the past few weeks, in the US at least, there has been a stunning reversal. The world's most celebrated entrepreneur is being cheered on by alt-right trolls, Donald Trumps eldest son (and, weirdly, comic book writer Stan Lee) following a series of Trump-style attacks on the media, and Kanye-esque online meltdowns.

After a string of press reports questioned Tesla's safety record, its efforts to prevent workers from unionising, and coverage of a fatal accident involving a vehicle on autopilot mode, Musk took to Twitter to attack the media.Australias illustrious horse racing industry just welcomed a colourful racing identity back into the fold.

Former pharmacy czar and one-time high-profile thoroughbred owner, Rohan Aujard, is due to face the Melbourne Magistrates Court again this week over legal action taken against him by the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA).

But he might be a little too busy to face the court over trifling matters like failing to disclose particulars of income to his bankruptcy trustee and allegedly intentionally provided false or misleading information to the trustee.

Bankrupt he may be, but Aujard has left behind the pharmacy game for good and returned to his real passion: horse racing.

Seven years after the collapse of his Pulse pharmacy group, Aujard has left the employment of his latest wife at Neo Pharmacy and joined the Corsten familys Malua Racing stable and Flemington Bloodstock.A lack of trust in electricity retailers and energy illiteracy is slowing Australians in driving down their power costs.

A survey carried out in April of more than 1000 people in Sydney and Melbourne found people had less trust in power companies to act in the public interest than both banking and the media, and they want electricity companies to provide them more information to help control energy usage but don't know enough about the technology available to help themselves.

Rising power bill prices have changed the way many Australians are consuming energy.

"Rising energy costs are driving increased energy awareness among consumers and simply providing comparative data with other households is no longer considered good enough," the study said.

"Almost 70 per cent of respondents revealed they would like energy companies to supply them with more information to better understand and control household energy use."Adrian Merrick was the head of EnergyAustralias retail arm for four years after spending five years working for energy business E.ON in the UK

Adrian Merrick previously led EnergyAustralia's retail arm and now believes many retailers in the industry are working against the customer.

Major retailers have spent 15 years defending their indefensible behaviour and now theyre trying to have ethical energy retailing in Australia, said Adrian Merrick, who is now the chief executive of electricity retailer Energy Locals.

The former head of EnergyAustralias retail arm says the energy industry has reached a tipping point and company behaviour is at an all-time low as the industry tries to rebuild the perception of electricity retailers.

In 2016, he started small renewable electricity retailer Energy Locals which Mr Merrick said aims to give at least half of its profits to local social causes or renewable energy development.

He said the electricity industry is at a tipping point and it needs to change to put the customer back in focus.

Mr Merrick said when electricity retailers change their tariff prices on July 1  apart from Victoria which announces changes in tariffs on January 1  they must decrease bill prices.

He said as wholesale prices have fallen as parts of the industry cut costs so too must retailers drop prices, as they can no longer lift retail margins and blame them on high wholesale prices.

Last July, one of the larger retailers and generators, who operates in NSW, Queensland and South Australia, carried out a double-digit percentage increase and blamed it on the wholesale price increases but it is these three large 'gentailers' (companies who are both generators and retailers) who control the wholesale price, Mr Merrick said.Standing in the way of corporate tax reform and wider tax and skilled migration incentives limits the nation's ability to innovate, the chief executive of biotechnology giant CSL, Paul Perreault, has warned.

Mr Perreault also said the company will continue to fight for patient access to healthcare and medical treatment when governments around the world  including US President Donald Trump  introduce policies that make access harder.

CSL CEO Paul Perreault has a warning for Australian government. Credit:Jesse Marlow

In a joint submission to the Turnbull government, blood products and vaccines manufacturer CSL and hearing implant pioneer Cochlear have warned Australia could lose out to countries overseas that offer more attractive tax incentives and easier access to skilled migration.

Mr Perreault has long called for tax policy certainty, and told Fairfax Media he still hoped the federal government's plan to reduce Australias corporate tax rate from 30 to 25 per cent for large companies would pass the Senate.Thailand: About 80 pieces of plastic rubbish weighing eight kilograms were found in the stomach of a whale that died in Thailand after a five-day effort to save it, a marine official said on Sunday.

The pilot whale was discovered on Monday in a canal in the southern province of Songkhla and received treatment from a team of veterinarians.

The whale spat out five plastic bags on Friday and later died, the Marine and Coastal Resources Department said on its website.

"This plastic rubbish made the whale sick and unable to hunt for food," the department said.USANZ president Adjunct Professor Peter Heathcote was not happy to see the ANZAUS appear on the excessive bill. Let me make it very, very clear: the ANZAUS and USANZ have no role whatsoever in setting fees, Dr Heathcote said. This is entirely unsatisfactory." Adjunct Professor Peter Heathcote, president of the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand He said the USANZ board was investigating the matter and would discuss what action to take.

The USANZ can cancel a specialist's membership if they have brought the organisation into disrepute, Dr Heathcote said. Exorbitant specialist fees have come under immense scrutiny in recent days. ABC Four Corners exposed the extent of the practices and galvanised unanimous condemnation from other peak specialist groups. Loading This is causing us enormous reputational damage," Dr Heathcote said adding 95 per cent of members charge no-gap or known gap fees. There is absolutely no evidence that paying higher fees will get you better outcomes."

President of the AMA Dr Tony Bartone said $18,000 was several orders of magnitude about what we recommend for that procedure. We would label this as egregious and we would not be pleased to see this level of misrepresentation [or] the suggestion that the fee is in line with the AMA, Dr Bartone said. The AMA were investigating the matter but Dr Bartone drew the line at naming and shaming specialists who charged egregiously. More importantly, there needs to be much better literacy and understanding among patients ... to be able to have informed financial consent, he said. President of the AMA, Dr Tony Bartone. Credit:Darrian Traynor

Urological Surgeon in Sydney Dr Henry Woo said the public outrage was an indictment on the entire medical profession. We brought this on ourselves, Dr Woo said. It may only be a minority of doctors engaging in these toxic billing practices, but our inaction makes us complicit to toxic billing." A federal government ministerial sub-committee chair by Chief Medical Officer Dr Brendan Murphy is investigating on out of pocket medical costs. Public hospital alternative

The prostate cancer patient agreed to speak to Fairfax Media on the condition that he and the surgeon not be identified. The 64-year-old did not accept the $18,000 quote. He opted to undergo a robotic prostatectomy at a public hospital at no charge. Loading I went from being out of pocket something like $25,000 to paying next to nothing, he said. His biggest fear using the public system was that he would be shunted to the back of a long wait list.

But within five weeks of his initial consultation he underwent the surgery at the Peter MacCallum Centre, Melbourne. I would have paid the price premium  its my life were talking about, he said. But after meeting with [the treating team], I was confident in their skills and capabilities, and comfortable to go down that pathway." My message to others is reach out to the public system, because it can look after you and do a very good job at little cost with little wait time.

The patient's surgeon Dr Declan Murphy tweeted a redacted image of the $18,000 bill, writing "I see lots of 'economic migrants' fleeing to Victoria to avoid extortionate fees elsewhere". "[T]empted to reveal surgeon," he tweeted. Several Sydney public hospitals (RPA, Nepean and Liverpool) also have robotic surgery programs. Cancer Council CEO Professor Sanchia Aranda said there was a tendency among some surgeons to suggest that private patients would be treated faster, Professor Aranda said. Chief executive of Cancer Council Australia Professor Sanchia Aranda said it was a myth cancer patients received better care in the private system.

A sense of urgency is created and patients get seduced into that system and told that public hospital treatment isnt available in a timely way. But was a myth that cancer care is better in private hospital, or that the public system had lengthy wait times once a patient was diagnosed. Once you have a cancer diagnosis, you would be the urgent category in almost all instances, which would take you to the front of the queue [of the public wait lists]. Loading In most cases you wouldnt wait longer than a couple of weeks, which wont make a difference to your outcome.It beggars belief that the ACT government keeps virtually no robust data on how many prisoners within the Alexander Maconochie Centre live with disabilities. Instead, prisoners are asked to self-identify any support needs, and ACT Health notified.

It is well-known that people with disability are overrepresented in prisons internationally and in Australia. UNSW criminologist Eileen Baldry and countless other academics, reports and reviews have noted that jails have become an unfortunate default where social suppports have failed.

What data the ACT does hold paints a dire picture. A detainee health survey undertaken in 2016 found 28 per cent of respondents screened positive for an intellectual disability - a rate almost 10 times that of the general population, and much greater than the national average among prison populations.

It should be noted the government has argued the figure is not directly comparable, as the measurement for intellectual disability used in the prison survey differed from other measurements.

Regardless, ACT Auditor-General Maxine Cooper in 2015 recommended that the territory government maintain data on prisoners with intellectual disability to ensure offenders with disability were properly supported and rehabilitated. This has not been done.Two Caltex petrol stations in Canberra have been conducting remediation works on land believed to be contaminated by leaking fuel storage tanks.

The two independently owned stations, in Kaleen and Mitchell, applied for exemptions related to the work in April last year.

Two Caltex service stations have been conducting remediation works in Canberra.

On April 5 an application was lodged with the ACT government seeking an environmental impact statement exemption for work at the Caltex on Maribyrnong Avenue, Kaleen.

Two days later, a similar exemption was lodged with the government concerning remediation work at the Caltex on Lysaught Street, Mitchell.Even film buffs won't know this. There's two films, not one, in the making about Ned Kelly.

First The True History of the Kelly Gang. Stars - Russell Crowe at Harry Power and George Mackay (Captain Fantastic) as Ned Kelly. Budget - millions of dollars. Based on - Peter Carey's novel he described to the State Library of Victoria as 'the most invented, made up book I've ever written'. Director - Justin Kurzel.

Ben Head (right), a film and TV student, with cameraman Ben Thompson. Credit:Justin McManus

Then there's the other one. Stringybark (that's the name of the creek where Kelly shot dead in cold blood the three officers sent to arrest him). Stars - Greg Stone (Van Diemen's Land, Blue Heelers, Neighbours), who plays one of the police officers). Budget - pretty small, well, $15,000 to be precise. Based on - historical fact and seen from the police side of things. Director: Ben Head, a 19-year-old film and TV student at Victorian College of the Arts (that's where Justin Kurzel went).Former deputy prime minister and Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce and his partner Vikki Campion have used a paid television interview to show off their newborn baby, apologise to Mr Joyce's former wife and daughters, attack Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and accuse other members of Parliament of trying to force Ms Campion to have an abortion.

In an interview on Channel Seven's Sunday Night program - for which they reportedly received $150,000 - Mr Joyce and Ms Campion responded to questions about their relationship that have consumed public debate since their affair became public this year.

On the reaction of Mr Turnbull - and his press conference in which he condemned the couple's affair - Mr Joyce said: "Yeah, well, I don't think that will ever be his Gettysburg Address, will it? I never expected a gold star, and I did not expect the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia to go and do a doorstop on it."

Mr Joyce said of the Prime Minister: "Generally what happens in these things is you admonish someone privately, and you support them publicly. That's the sort of golden rule."A Taree doctor who prescribed fentanyl and other potent painkillers to drug seekers is the fourth regional doctor, and the third from the same town, to be punished by a tribunal this year for improperly dispensing the strong drugs.

Dr Long Phan Nguyen was suspended from practising by the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for inappropriately prescribing the addictive medication to 12 patients between 2010 and 2015.

Fetanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid painkiller, was the subject of the overprescribing findings.

In a case brought about by the Health Care Complaints Commission, Dr Nguyen was found to ha

ve simultanously prescribed two benzodiazepines to a drug addict, despite his previous notes revealing the man sold drugs.Strata committees would hold some power to prohibit property investors renting out entire units on Airbnb-style websites under proposals likely to go before the Coalition party room on Tuesday.

But the onus would be on strata committees and owners corporations to decide to limit short-term letting, rather than such uses being automatically prohibited.

The governments attempt to end the uncertainty over the regulation of Airbnb-style letting in NSW was stymied last month when Coalition backbenchers pushed for more time to discuss proposed reforms.

The Member for Drummoyne, John Sidoti, centre, wants strata committees to have to opt-in to allow Airbnb in buildings Credit:Michele Mossop

Under the reforms presented to the Coalition party room, strata committees would have not had any capacity to limit Airbnb-style uses in apartment blocks.A "bottleneck" roundabout in the Moreton Bay region that has left motorists "fed up for many, many years" will be given a $30 million upgrade having been allocated funding in the upcoming state budget.

Fairfax Media can reveal the state government will announce on Monday the Petrie roundabout will be replaced by a reconfigured T-intersection featuring traffic lights, with work set to begin in 2020.

However, the Opposition Leader said the roundabout upgrades needed to be finished by 2020 because the new University of Sunshine Coast campus will open at the start of that year.

The Petrie roundabout connecting Gympie Road, Dayboro Road and Anzac Avenue. Credit:Google Maps

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said an extra $22.5 million will be set aside in the state budget, set to be delivered on June 12, in addition to $7.5 million already committed.A man has died after the hatchback he was a passenger in was hit by a ute travelling on the wrong side of the Gateway Motorway in Brisbane's south on Sunday morning.

Northbound lanes of the Gateway Motorway were closed to traffic for more than three hours as a result of the crash, but reopened just before 9am.

A 61-year-old Sunshine Coast man has died in hospital after the hatchback he was in was hit head-on by a ute. Credit:7 News Brisbane - Twitter

The collision happened at about 4.20am on the northbound side of the motorway in Rochedale, about a kilometre before the Mt Gravatt-Capalaba Road exit.

Police said initial investigations suggested the ute was travelling south in the northbound lanes when it hit the hatchback head-on.A couple have been rescued by neighbours after a fire tore through their home in Brisbanes south early on Monday morning.

A man, 74 and woman, 73, were sleeping in their Runcorn home when the fire broke out just before 5am.

Two people were home when a fire broke out at the Runcorn home early Monday morning. Credit:Bianca Stone/Twitter

Neighbours heard the smoke detectors and rushed to the aid of the couple.

Neighbour Jamie Bedington said the flames were huge.Parents feel out of their depth when their children are cyber bullied, the states peak body for psychiatrists say in their submission to the Queensland Anti-cyber bullying Taskforce.

Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists Queensland fellow Dr Laura Hamilton said the college wanted to see a streamlined, one-stop shop for resources and policy to fix a fractured response to cyber bullying.

Cyberbullying is an issue not well understood by parents and teachers, the psychiatrists college says. Credit:File

That streamlined process would also be reliant on a national, ongoing conversation about positive and respectful behaviour, with all community members shouldering the responsibility.

The taskforce, convened by the Premier in February, will provide advice on creating an anti-cyber bullying framework after conducting community consultation around Queensland.A former male model who became the leader of Victoria's Comanchero outlaw motorcycle gang has been linked to a vicious assault and extortion of a nightclub promoter in Melbourne's north-west.

It is understood Hasan Topal, 28, is accused of demanding weekly payments of $2000 before stealing the man's blue Honda Accord on May 26.

Former male model Hasan Topal. Credit:Instagram

The Age was told the nightclub promoter was lured to a meeting near a milk bar in Delahey, where he was allegedly ambushed and assaulted by two men.

The eldest son of underworld figure Nabile Maghnie - who has survived two shootings - is understood to have been present when the assault occurred.A man is in hospital and another on the run after a road rage attack in Melbourne's north on Saturday night.

Victoria Police said they believed a two car collision on Windermere Crescent, Gladstone Park, just before 9.30pm led one of the drivers to assault the other.

A man was taken to hospital following a road rage attack in Gladstone Park. Credit:Channel Nine News

The alleged offending driver left the scene before police arrived while the injured man was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Police are investigating.Former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce boasted of lobbying Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to support his friend Gina Rinehart's National Agriculture Day months before he received a $40,000 personal cheque from the mining billionaire.

Documents obtained by Fairfax Media under Freedom of Information laws show Mr Joyce wrote a personal letter to Mrs Rinehart in April 2017 in which he said he "had made a direct representation to the Prime Minister expressing my strong support for this [National Agricultural and Related Industries Day] proposal."

Two months later in June 2017, Mr Joyce's own department donated $60,000 to the National Farmers' Federation on behalf of the Australian government. It was staged in November that year.

An audience at the event's gala dinner was shocked when Mr Joyce accepted the "champion of farming" cheque from Mrs Rinehart. He said he was "humbled" and was going to use it to fix up his farm, but later returned the cheque following a public backlash.Lega is centred in Northern Italy. Think very right wing. The productive, hard-working northerners have long been fed up with what they see as the lazy, indulgent southerners. One former leader suggested declaring war on Switzerland, not engaging any troops and surrendering the next day. He said that the Swiss were probably the only people capable of organising Italy. Yes, he was joking, but he made his point. In the past they have actively considered secession from the underperforming and costly south.

The new government will be an alliance between Five Star Movement and Lega. Its roughly the equivalent of a coalition between the Greens and the Nationals. Five Star is essentially a protest movement that outgrew itself. Its founder, Bepe Grillo, is a famous comedian. Its growth is a measure of both the degree to which normal people are fed up with what they see as self-serving political parties and their gullibility in terms of completely unrealistic promises. Their strength is particularly evident in the south. The other half of this intended coalition is Lega.

Some Australians seem astounded at what has been happening in Italy as they've battled to form yet another government. Although no one should laugh too loudly. There are lessons for us in the stereotypical Italian chaos.

These two are not obvious partners. Its extremely hard to see how they can make it work. Each will have to make concessions that make them vulnerable to the accusation of being prepared to say anything to win, give up anything to get power. Thats the very criticism they make of previous governments. Five Star agreeing to some tough-love style Lega Policies is as incongruous as Lega accepting any of Five Stars dreamland, money-for-everyone ideas.

Italy has a long history of very short term governments. Ministers are overtly focused primarily on themselves. When I was there, the American ambassador had to wait more than three months to get an appointment with the education minister. By our standards thats extraordinary. Previous governments havent been over-endowed with brave hearts seeking to drag Italy out of the doldrums. Policy in Italys long-term interest takes a back seat to personal interest.

So, why shouldnt we snigger a bit? After all, we form governments easily. Yet what Italy experienced in its lower house election results and consequent difficulty forming government has an uncomfortable similarity with our Senate.

Like so many countries we have disenchanted voters looking for something better. We also have people who out of either idealism, stupidity, self-interest or some combination thereof imagine that being in Parliament and getting something done is easy. They see it as a bit like open mike night at the pub. Stand up, say what you think, get some applause and play to the crowd. Give them what they want to hear.

Disenchanted voters pay attention to whats been promised and believe, naively, that these outliers will deliver. Sadly, just like at open mike night theres no focus on the harsh reality of everyday life, no concern for the rights and needs of those with a different view.The Turnbull government maintains Liberal senator Lucy Gichuhi is in the clear after fresh concerns were raised about her dual-citizenship status.

The Kenyan-born former Family First senator is the subject of new legal advice from University of Nairobi professor Edwin Abuya, which suggests that she should have written to Kenya's nationality minister to renounce her citizenship.

The advice is at odds with Senator Gichuhi's earlier statements that she automatically lost her Kenyan citizenship when she became an Australian citizen.

Senator Lucy Gichuhi Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham, who led negotiations to bring Senator Gichuhi into the Coalition this year, dismissed the new legal advice reported by News Corp.The state government will rely on generous Victorians for the hundreds of millions of dollars it needs to fund its dream of a new arts precinct at Southbank.

The state opposition was sceptical of Sunday's big arts announcement, accusing the government of trying to fund its plan on the "never never".

Artist rendition's of the proposed NGV Contemporary and 'transformation' of the Southbank arts precinct. Credit:State government

Special Minister for State Gavin Jennings said the government would make the dream come true of Australias biggest contemporary gallery at the site behind the Arts Centre on St Kilda Road.

The government describes the project as a once-in-a-generation transformation of the city's arts precinct that would deliver new "public space, better theatres and thousands of local jobs and attract millions of visitors''.Beijing: US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross left Beijing on Sunday with no word of a breakthrough that could avert a trade war between the world's two biggest economies.

Instead, China issued a public warning that any deal is off if US President Donald Trump makes good his threat to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese technology.

Trump has stunned US allies Canada, Mexico and the EU in recent days by imposing tariffs on their steel and aluminium, invoking swift threats of retaliatory measures against American jeans, bourbon and maple syrup, among many other products.

In the days prior to Ross' arrival in Beijing, Trump set a June 15 deadline for naming $US50 billion $66 billion) of Chinese products to be hit with a 25 per cent punitive tariff in another apparent attempt at trade brinksmanship.By contrast, Hill said, the North Koreans already "have gotten the whole enchilada" from Trump. The question of how to engage with a brutal, authoritarian regime has been a challenge for most presidents, but it has taken on heightened sensitivity as Trump prepares to meet Kim Jon-un in Singapore on June 12. No sitting president has ever met with a North Korean leader, and the summit will produce images that ricochet instantly around the globe. For Trump - an impulsive and demonstrative president whose macho handshakes, scowls and thumbs-up poses are tailor-made for social media memes - the risk over his interactions with Kim go beyond the private talks at the bargaining table, former US officials said. "Photo ops of the two together, smiling, those are disseminated in North Korea to show the two leaders are equal," said Bill Richardson, the former US ambassador to the United Nations who met with several dictators, including Iraq's Saddam Hussein, and made several trips to Pyongyang. "Trump should avoid the propaganda, the one-on-one smiling and hugging."

Yet Trump views the photos as a victory, too - a symbol that he is willing to discard the diplomatic conventions that have limited his predecessors and stymied their attempts to curb North Korea's nuclear program. White House aides said Trump's sudden decision in March to agree to the summit was made with the confidence that his own negotiating skills would quickly pay greater dividends than three decades of failed lower-level talks. Time and again, Trump has also upended the more cautious diplomatic approaches of his predecessors in showing warmth toward authoritarian figures. US President Donald Trump, centre right, shakes hands with Kim Yong Chol, vice chairman of North Korea's ruling Worker's Party Central Committee, next to Mike Pompeo, centre, on the South Lawn of the White House after a meeting in Washington, D.C., Credit:Bloomberg He treated Chinese President Xi Jinping to "the most beautiful piece of chocolate cake" during a lavish summit at Mar-a-Lago last year. He praised Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, who has presided over the extrajudicial killings of thousands of suspected drug dealers, for doing an "unbelievable job on the drug problem." And Trump applauded Russian President Vladimir Putin in March for winning another term even though national security aides warned him in writing, "DO NOT CONGRATULATE," because the election was viewed as heavily manipulated.

"The Trump thesis of international diplomacy is the Trump thesis of New York real estate dealmaking, which is that step one is to establish a personal - individual or family to family - close relationship with your mark," said Daniel Russel, who served as a top Asia policy official in the Obama administration. "You build trust, don't talk business, establish camaraderie and allow the Trump charisma to steep and marinate to soften them up." White House aides have emphasised that Trump's aim is to keep the door open to working with rival leaders on shared challenges despite their differences. Trump's meeting with Kim Yong Chol was a reciprocal gesture after Kim Jong-un met twice with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Pyongyang, the aides said. It was not the first such meeting in the Oval Office. In October 2000, Clinton welcomed Jo Myong Rok, a top North Korean military official, who also presented Clinton with a letter from Kim Jong-il. But Clinton ultimately rejected Kim's invitation to a summit in Pyongyang. Trump critics call his approach to foreign policy inconsistent and naive, handing his rivals unintended victories by allowing his instincts to undermine his own administration's strategy. On Friday, Trump said that, in the spirit of the diplomatic talks, he would no longer use the phrase "maximum pressure" to describe the administration's policy of economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation - even as his aides have vowed to keep the pressure on.

Historian Robert Dallek said presidents traditionally have been mindful of the optics when meeting authoritarian leaders. He pointed to President Dwight Eisenhower's aides cautioning him not to smile for photos during a meeting with Soviet Union officials after Joseph Stalin's death. "They were very mindful of not wanting to appear to friendly and maybe taken into camp by the Soviet leaders," Dallek said. "In terms of domestic politics, it's a dangerous game if you seem to be too cozy with someone who has been your adversary." With Trump, he added, "there's a feeling that he is so inexperienced and lacking in understanding of what he's dealing with. Certainly, he knows he's dealing with a dictatorial regime, but he seems to be so driven by his own desire for kudos and celebration of his own achievements." In 2016, President Barack Obama visited Havana as part of his administration's restoration of diplomatic relations with Cuba after more than half a century. At the end of a joint news conference, Cuban leader Raul Castro attempted to raise Obama's arm in triumph, but Obama let his arm go limp. An Obama aide told reporters that he had sought to deny Castro an "iconic photo" because the two sides still had significant disagreements.Singapore: The United States is considering intensified naval patrols in the South China Sea in a bid to challenge China's growing militarisation of the waterway, actions that could further raise the stakes in one of the world's most volatile areas.

A Chinese base under construction on Mabini (Johnson) Reef, one of the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea.

The Pentagon is weighing a more assertive program of so-called freedom-of-navigation operations close to Chinese installations on disputed reefs, two US officials and Western and Asian diplomats close to discussions said.

The officials declined to say how close they were to finalising a decision.

Such moves could involve longer patrols, ones involving larger numbers of ships or operations involving closer surveillance of Chinese facilities in the area, which now include electronic jamming equipment and advanced military radars.London: British Prime Minister Theresa May joined survivors, victims' families and emergency workers at a memorial service on Sunday to mark a year since a deadly vehicle-and-knife attack brought terror to London Bridge.

A tribute is projected onto the side of London Bridge to mark one year since the attack. Credit:PA

Eight people were killed and almost 50 injured when three extremists ran down pedestrians on the bridge, then stabbed people at packed bars and restaurants in nearby Borough Market, one of London's main foodie hubs. The three attackers were shot dead by police.

The rampage came two weeks after a bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester Arena that killed 22 people.

More than 700 people gathered Sunday inside the centuries-old Southwark Cathedral, nestled between the bridge and the market on the lively south bank side of the Thames River.Bologna: Italy's new Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini started his new role by declaring his country could no longer serve as "Europe's refugee camp", as he pledged to press European Union officials for asylum law reform.

Leader of the League party, Matteo Salvini, right, stands by Luigi Di Maio, leader of the Five-Star movement, prior to their swearing-in ceremony. Credit:AP

During a visit to a migrant reception centre in the southern Sicilian port of Pozzallo, the leader of the anti-immigration far-Right League party said shipwrecks off Tunisia and Turkey that left dozens dead Sunday could have been prevented.

At least 46 people died after their boat sank off the Tunisian coast, the country's Defence Ministry said. Their bodies were recovered from the water near the island of Kerkennah. Earlier in the day, nine migrants, including six children, drowned off Turkey.Jerusalem: Gaza militants fired rockets at Israel on Saturday, the Israeli military said, drawing retaliatory Israeli air strikes on Hamas sites, Palestinian residents said, a few days after the area's most intense fighting in years.

"Two launches were identified from the Gaza Strip at Israeli territory. The IDF's Iron Dome aerial defence system intercepted one of the launches and the other apparently landed in the Gaza Strip," a statement from the military said.

None of Gaza's militant groups claimed responsibility for the rocket fire.

Hours later, residents in Gaza said Israeli aircraft struck at least three training camps belonging to Hamas, the Islamist group which controls the enclave.The New Democrats raised British Columbia's foreign-buyer tax to 20 per cent of a home's purchase price, from 15 per cent. (Ontario has a 15 per cent tax.) In addition, the party plans to impose higher property taxes on second homes, on families whose primary breadwinner's earnings come from money abroad and on homes valued at more than 3 million Canadian dollars ($2.3 million). Vancouver has passed local measures, including a tax on empty homes. "There's no question that many of the measures we are bringing in are bold, but we felt they were critical if we were really going to address this crisis," Carole James, British Columbia's finance minister, said in an interview. This would seem politically perilous. Two-thirds of Canadians own their homes, roughly the same share as in the US. And Canadians, like Australians, expect to make money from the investment. Yet polls, and interviews with homeowners like Welsh, suggest that Vancouverites are so shocked at the price levels that even homeowners want the market to cool. In 2016, the nonprofit Angus Reid Institute in Vancouver found that roughly two-thirds of residents in the metropolitan area wanted home prices to fall, including half of homeowners. More startling was that 1 in 5 homeowners in the survey expressed a desire to see home prices fall by 30 per cent or more. No doubt, many voters would think twice about that opinion if home prices actually crashed. Still, respondents "were clearly reacting from a place of deep anxiety, even desperation, about their own or their loved ones' ability to access the housing market," said Shachi Kurl, executive director of Angus Reid.

And so far, people like what they see from the new government's attempts to rein in the market: In a separate Angus Reid poll this year, large majorities of British Columbians supported the housing measures proposed by the New Democratic government. "Unbeknownst to many people in the local population, Vancouver has been sold as a subsidized resort town and retirement community to the world," said Josh Gordon, a political-science professor at Simon Fraser University here. "We are now seeing the culmination of that dynamic." Vancouver, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and wide maritime views, has never been especially cheap. But home and condominium prices are up by close to 16 per cent over the past year, and about 60 per cent over the past three, according to the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver. What makes these gains so remarkable is that unlike Silicon Valley, London or New York  where the presence of high-paying tech and finance jobs helps explain housing costs  Vancouver has relatively low salaries. As part of their bid for Amazon's second headquarters, Vancouver officials boasted about having "the lowest wages of all North American tech hubs." "We have plenty of jobs, but you might need two or three of them to be able to afford a place to live," said Andy Yan, director of the City Program at Simon Fraser.

How much of the city's housing demand is coming from China is hotly debated. Government statistics show that foreign buyers own about 5 per cent of the housing stock in the metropolitan area, but the numbers are several times as high for new condominiums, which helps to explain why a surge of building hasn't done much to reduce prices, according to an analysis by Yan. And this almost certainly underestimates the influence of foreign capital, since the data exclude Canadian immigrants with money from overseas. The real estate industry contends that the issue is not an influx of Chinese, who have been coming to Vancouver for decades, but zoning restrictions that prioritize low-density living, outside of a few high-rise areas. "I live 15 minutes from the downtown core in a house," said Keith Roy, a real estate agent. "That's crazy. I should be in a town house at this distance, maybe even a low-rise condo building." The figures show, however, that unlike other expensive West Coast cities like San Francisco, where the housing supply has long lagged behind population growth, Vancouver has consistently produced new housing. Over the past decade, the housing stock has grown by about 12 per cent, while the population has grown by about 9 per cent, according to the city. This disparity has persuaded the city to broaden its measures beyond just a push for new buildings to efforts like the empty homes tax.NASA's SOFIA airborne observatory resumed science flights May 22 after a hiatus of more than six months caused by extended maintenance on the Boeing 747SP aircraft.

WASHINGTON  A NASA airborne observatory that enjoys unusual protection from regular reviews resumed science flights recently after an extended maintenance period.

The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) made its first science flight in more than half a year May 22, a 10-hour flight out of NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in California. SOFIA is scheduled to fly to New Zealand June 1 for a campaign of southern hemisphere observations.

The science flight was the first since late 2017 for the airborne observatory, a Boeing 747SP with a 2.5-meter infrared telescope. The plane flew to Germany in November 2017 for maintenance known in aviation as a "C-check" by Lufthansa Technik. That work was scheduled to be completed in January. [A Photo Tour of NASA's SOFIA Flying Observatory]

However, during that C-check, workers found a fuel leak in the aircraft where the outer left engine attaches to the wing. In addition to repairing that leak, Boeing directed Lufthansa Technik to inspect all four engine pylons for potential leaks, a process that took several more weeks. That work was finally completed in May, and SOFIA flew back to the United States May 18.

SOFIA provides a unique platform for performing infrared astronomy, flying above most of the infrared-absorbing water in the atmosphere while also accommodating multiple instruments that can be updated or replaced. However, SOFIA is among the most expensive astrophysics missions to operate, second only to the Hubble Space Telescope.

SOFIA, whose development dates back to the 1990s, is exempt from a process called senior reviews where the agency examines the status of science projects that have completed their prime missions to determine if proposed extensions should be funded. A provision in the report accompanying the omnibus spending bill for fiscal year 2018 prevents NASA from including the mission in the next astrophysics senior review in 2019.

Congress made that determination by declaring that SOFIA now has a prime mission of 20 years. "The agreement notes that SOFIA, which began its prime mission in 2014, has a prime mission lifetime of 20 years," it states. The bill also provided SOFIA with $85.2 million, $5.3 million above the agency's request. [Photos from SOFIA, NASA's Flying Telescope (Gallery)]

A fiscal year 2019 spending bill approved by the House Appropriations Committee May 17 again provides $85.2 million for SOFIA, compared to a request of $74.6 million that declines to zero by 2022. NASA said in the request  released prior to the completion of the 2018 omnibus spending bill  that SOFIA would participate in the 2019 senior review. If it passed the review, NASA noted, it would budget funding for future years.

The new House report, though, reiterates that SOFIA is exempt from the next senior review. "The Committee is concerned with NASA's proposed inclusion of SOFIA in the 2019 Senior Review, given it began its prime mission in 2014 and has 15 years of prime mission lifetime remaining," it states. "Accordingly, the Committee directs NASA to only undertake a Senior Review of SOFIA at the time SOFIA completes its planned mission lifetime."

That language has puzzled many in the astronomy community, who note that SOFIA will not have to participate in a senior review until at least 2034. Most other NASA missions, by comparison, have far shorter prime missions, such as five years for the James Webb Space Telescope.

SOFIA's prime mission was also originally set for five years, and thus would have been part of the 2019 senior review prior to the congressional report language. A March 2017 presentation by Harold Yorke, director of SOFIA science mission operations, noted that five-year prime mission, but added there were plans to operate SOFIA out to 2034, including securing of spare parts from other Boeing 747SP aircraft.

However, agency officials said there will be other mechanisms other than the senior review process to monitor SOFIA's effectiveness, such as program implementation reviews used by NASA programs in general. "One doesn't go 20 years without reviewing a program, especially a program as complicated and as costly as SOFIA," said Paul Hertz, director of NASA's astrophysics division, during a March meeting of the National Academies' Committee on Astronomy and Astrophysics.

This story was provided by SpaceNews, dedicated to covering all aspects of the space industry.This article was originally published at The Conversation. The publication contributed the article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights.

Earlier this year, astronomers stumbled upon a fascinating finding: Thousands of black holes likely exist near the center of our galaxy.

The X-ray images that enabled this discovery weren't from some state-of-the-art new telescope. Nor were they even recently taken  some of the data was collected nearly 20 years ago.

No, the researchers discovered the black holes by digging through old, long-archived data.

Discoveries like this will only become more common, as the era of "big data" changes how science is done. Astronomers are gathering an exponentially greater amount of data every day  so much that it will take years to uncover all the hidden signals buried in the archives.

The evolution of astronomy

Sixty years ago, the typical astronomer worked largely alone or in a small team. They likely had access to a respectably large ground-based optical telescope at their home institution.

Their observations were largely confined to optical wavelengths  more or less what the eye can see. That meant they missed signals from a host of astrophysical sources, which can emit non-visible radiation from very low-frequency radio all the way up to high-energy gamma rays. For the most part, if you wanted to do astronomy, you had to be an academic or eccentric rich person with access to a good telescope.

Old data was stored in the form of photographic plates or published catalogs. But accessing archives from other observatories could be difficult  and it was virtually impossible for amateur astronomers.

Today, there are observatories that cover the entire electromagnetic spectrum. No longer operated by single institutions, these state-of-the-art observatories are usually launched by space agencies and are often joint efforts involving many countries.

With the coming of the digital age, almost all data are publicly available shortly after they are obtained. This makes astronomy very democratic  anyone who wants to can reanalyze almost any data set that makes the news. (You too can look at the Chandra data that led to the discovery of thousands of black holes!)

The Hubble Space Telescope. (Image credit: NASA)

These observatories generate a staggering amount of data. For example, the Hubble Space Telescope, operating since 1990, has made over 1.3 million observations and transmits around 20 GB of raw data every week, which is impressive for a telescope first designed in the 1970s. The Atacama Large Millimeter Array in Chile now anticipates adding 2 TB of data to its archives every day.

Data firehose

The archives of astronomical data are already impressively large. But things are about to explode.

Each generation of observatories are usually at least 10 times more sensitive than the previous, either because of improved technology or because the mission is simply larger. Depending on how long a new mission runs, it can detect hundreds of times more astronomical sources than previous missions at that wavelength.

For example, compare the early EGRET gamma ray observatory, which flew in the 1990s, to NASA's flagship mission Fermi, which turns 10 this year. EGRET detected only about 190 gamma ray sources in the sky. Fermi has seen over 5,000.

The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, an optical telescope currently under construction in Chile, will image the entire sky every few nights. It will be so sensitive that it will generate 10 million alerts per night on new or transient sources, leading to a catalog of over 15 petabytes after 10 years.

The Square Kilometre Array, when completed in 2020, will be the most sensitive telescope in the world, capable of detecting airport radar stations of alien civilizations up to 50 light-years away. In just one year of activity, it will generate more data than the entire internet.

These ambitious projects will test scientists' ability to handle data. Images will need to be automatically processed  meaning that the data will need to be reduced down to a manageable size or transformed into a finished product. The new observatories are pushing the envelope of computational power, requiring facilities capable of processing hundreds of terabytes per day.

The resulting archives  all publicly searchable  will contain 1 million times more information that what can be stored on your typical 1 TB backup disk.

Unlocking new science

The data deluge will make astronomy become a more collaborative and open science than ever before. Thanks to internet archives, robust learning communities and new outreach initiatives, citizens can now participate in science. For example, with the computer program Einstein@Home, anyone can use their computer's idle time to help search for rapidly-rotating neutron stars.

It's an exciting time for scientists, too. Astronomers like myself often study physical phenomena on timescales so wildly beyond the typical human lifetime that watching them in real-time just isn't going to happen. Events like a typical galaxy merger  which is exactly what it sounds like  can take hundreds of millions of years. All we can capture is a snapshot, like a single still frame from a video of a car accident.

However, there are some phenomena that occur on shorter timescales, taking just a few decades, years or even seconds. That's how scientists discovered those thousands of black holes in the new study. It's also how they recently realized that the X-ray emission from the center of a nearby dwarf galaxy has been fading since first detected in the 1990s. These new discoveries suggest that more will be found in archival data spanning decades.

A black-hole-powered jet of hot gas in the giant elliptical galaxy M87. (Image credit: NASA, ESA, E. Meyer, W. Sparks, J. Biretta, J. Anderson, S.T. Sohn, and R. van der Marel (STScI), C. Norman (Johns Hopkins University), and M. Nakamura (Academia Sinica))

In my own work, I use Hubble archives to make movies of "jets," high-speed plasma ejected in beams from black holes. I used over 400 raw images spanning 13 years to make a movie of the jet in nearby galaxy M87. That movie showed, for the first time, the twisting motions of the plasma, suggesting that the jet has a helical structure.

This kind of work was only possible because other observers, for other purposes, just happened to capture images of the source I was interested in, back when I was in kindergarten. As astronomical images become larger, higher resolution and ever more sensitive, this kind of research will become the norm.

This article has been updated to correct what Einstein@Home searches for.

Eileen Meyer, Assistant Professor of Physics, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. Follow all of the Expert Voices issues and debates  and become part of the discussion  on Facebook, Twitter and Google +. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. This version of the article was originally published on Space.com.An artist's illustration of NASA's Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe, a mission to study the interaction of the sun's solar wind with the winds of other stars. It will launch in 2024.

NASA will launch a new mission in 2024 to help scientists better understand the bubble that surrounds the solar system, agency officials said.

This huge bubble, which known as the heliosphere, is created by the sun; it consists of charged solar particles and solar magnetic fields. The heliosphere helps protect Earth and other solar system bodies from space radiation, blocking some highly energetic cosmic rays that originated in interstellar space.

But the heliosphere boundary is far from impenetrable. The new NASA mission, called the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP), will collect and study fast-moving particles that manage to make it through. [Solar Quiz: How Well Do You Know Our Sun?]

"This boundary is where our sun does a great deal to protect us. IMAP is critical to broadening our understanding of how this 'cosmic filter' works," Dennis Andrucyk, deputy associate administrator for NASAs Science Mission Directorate in Washington, said in a statement Friday (June 1). "The implications of this research could reach well beyond the consideration of Earthly impacts as we look to send humans into deep space."

Diagram of the heliosphere, the protective bubble of charged particles and magnetic fields that surrounds the solar system. (Image credit: Southwest Research Institute)

IMAP was chosen from a stable of candidate proposals submitted late last year, NASA officials said. The probe will launch to the Earth-sun Lagrange Point 1, a gravitationally stable spot in space about 930,000 miles (1.5 million kilometers) sunward from our planet.

IMAP will use 10 onboard science instruments to characterize the particles streaking through that neighborhood. Such work should shed light on the interaction between the interstellar medium and the solar wind  the stream of charged particles flowing constantly from the sun  and help researchers better understand how cosmic rays are accelerated inside the heliosphere, among other things, NASA officials said.

The cost of the mission is capped at $492 million, not including the launch vehicle. IMAP's principal investigator is David McComas of Princeton University, and the mission will be managed by The Johns Hopkins Universitys Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland.

IMAP is the fifth mission in NASA's Solar Terrestrial Probes program. The other four are the Thermosphere, Ionosphere, Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics mission (TIMED), which launched in December 2001; Hinode, a collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency that lifted off in September 2006; the Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO), a joint mission with the European Space Agency that launched in October 2006; and the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, which launched in March 2015.

Follow Mike Wall on Twitter @michaeldwall and Google+. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook or Google+. Originally published on Space.com.WASHINGTON  SpaceX's first Falcon Heavy launch with a commercial satellite is scheduled to occur around the end of the year, according to customer Arabsat.

The Riyadh, Saudi Arabia-based satellite operator told SpaceNews by email that the launch window for Arabsat 6A is between December and January.

SpaceX has one Falcon Heavy launch scheduled ahead of Arabsat-6A  the U.S. Air Force's STP-2 technology demonstration mission. [SpaceX's 1st Falcon Heavy Launch in Photos]

An Air Force Space Command spokesperson told SpaceNews the STP-2 mission is currently scheduled for October. STP-2 was previously up for launch this month, but slipped "due to ongoing SpaceX qualification testing and engineering review by both SpaceX and the Air Force," the spokesperson said.

Following STP-2 and Arabsat-6A, it is unclear when the next Falcon Heavy mission will occur. SpaceX still counts fleet operators Intelsat, Viasat and Inmarsat as Falcon Heavy customers, but none have assigned spacecraft to the rocket.

Viasat's ViaSat-2 and Inmarsat's European Aviation Network satellite  both originally slated for 2016 Falcon Heavy launches  launched on Arianespace Ariane 5 rockets last June. The operators switched launch providers as Falcon Heavy delays mounted.

Inmarsat spokesperson Jonathan Sinnatt said the London-based satellite operator still has an option for a Falcon Heavy launch.

Intelsat, SpaceX's earliest Falcon Heavy customer, also has a launch option dating back to 2012, but no concrete details such as payload or date.

"We still have the Falcon Heavy agreement but no satellite has been assigned to the vehicle," Intelsat spokesperson Jason Bates said.

Carlsbad, California-based Viasat, in response to SpaceNews inquiries, gave no firm commitment of a Falcon Heavy launch, though the company is still listed on the SpaceX manifest.

"Viasat had a launch contract on the Falcon Heavy for the ViaSat-2 satellite launch," Viasat said in a statement. "We continue to talk with SpaceX as well as other launch providers for our future launches. As deals are solidified with our launch providers  we'll update the market."

SpaceX launched its first Falcon Heavy in February on a demonstration mission carrying a red Tesla roadster.

This story was provided by SpaceNews, dedicated to covering all aspects of the space industry.A weekly feature in which we're trying to find the most compelling, best acted, written, directed and just generally great, memorable scenes that we've seen in past seven days on TV.Oh my god. What a mess this season is. The only thing I was praying for, the only thing that could save this season was Tony to finally resurface and save GOB from his pure agony. Sure enough, when its time to do the closet switcheroo, Tony pulls through. I love the quiet moments where the two of them talk things through. Its so painfully obvious that GOB is head over heels in love with Tony, and I think Tony loves him back but is scared to confront those feelings. And of course we get that disgustingly juicy cliffhanger. I have my theories about who planted the cement, and I hate that I have to wait so long to find out! Also, Happy Pride to GOB! Im so proud of him for finally being himself after all these years of hiding!Colony continues to improve moving towards grade A storytelling with an episode so emotionally-charged and politically complicated (and so reminiscent of so many scenes and character dynamics featured in LOST). It's no longer afraid to take risks and prove to the audience that the stakes are high, as Snyder cons the struggling Vincent to make contact with the Occupation, which results in a mass shootout throughout MacGregor's camp where all, but one Bowman makes it out alive. The loss of Charlie is so gut-wrenching after knowing how much Will in particular went through to get him back, but even more demoralizing was Snyder's Benjamin Linus-like tactics to take this path, knowing the risk.Kay admits her feelings for Cameron to Jonathan, unaware that she's talking to the wrong Black sibling. There was just so much vulnerability and pain from her, and it hurt. And it's upsetting we won't be getting a resolution to anything since the show was cancelled but Kay and Cameron's relationship will always be one of my favorite aspects of it. The two of them love each other so much, and I'm glad Kay took such a huge risk, even though she was confessing to the wrong twin.This was such a great season finale and there were so many wonderful scenes worth highlighting in the article (the wedding, the documentary, the rescue party) but in the end nothing was more memorable to me than Liv's choice at the end. I was so glad to see the lovely reunion between Dale and Clive last week and their wedding in this hour was such a fun and beautifully done surprise. But when the vows end and the happy couple leaves with the plan to turn Clive into a zombie, Liv stops the two and offers a wedding gift unlike any other - the cure for zombie virus. It's the only one she has and she's ready to take it, especially considering that she was almost executed for her recent actions hours earlier. But watching Clive and Bozzio's wedding, she realizes how much this cure would mean to her friends, the possibility to be together and have children, and she decides to give it away. It's both heartwarming and heartbreaking to watch but I loved seeing everyone's reactions to the news. The tears of joy in Dale's eyes and the embrace between Liv and Clive. Also, of course that Ravi understood what was happening right away. And Peyton's words speak volumes about Liv's character: "Isn't that just like her?" Sacrificing her own life and happiness for the people she loves - that's exactly who Liv Moore is. The strength of this hero should never be underestimated or forgotten. Very excited to see the last chapter of this story in the next season. Kudos to cast & crew for their fantastic work!Clive and Bozzio get married, Liv decides to give the cure to them so they could have kids. The weirdest vows you'll ever hear with the most honest happiness you can see on TV. Great finale and phenomenal moment.The entire final scene with Eve trashing Villanelle's apartment, both of them on the bed, and then Eve stabbing her. The entire first season has been building up to this moment of free confrontation between the two women and it did not disappoint. They're both honest and even emotional and yet maneuver and manipulate the other. It was a thrilling end to season 1 and Villanelle's escape points to an exciting season 2.These two have such a twisted relationship. Can't wait to see where it's headed next season.I mean, sparks were literally flying, I will miss this little show.Hated the casting for this one but the friendship between Ella and Chloe, and the scenes with Dan and Lucifer are the perfect example of why this show is so awesome.Philip and Elizabeth say goodbye to Henry. Philip and Elizabeth have done some terrible things: they've killed people, lied to people, destroyed marriages, ruined lives. And, over the years, they've struggled with doing many of those things. But nothing was as hard as abandoning their son while they flee to Russia. The phone call in which they say goodbye to Henry is utterly heartbreaking, not just because it's the last time they'll ever speak, but because Henry has absolutely no idea. As Philip looks set to start crying as he tells his son he's proud of him, Henry just assumes he's been drinking. The silence between each line seems to take an age, the audience on edge over whether the call could be about to end. You could not ask for two more perfectly conflicting images: Philip and Elizabeth outside in the cold and the dark, putting on their greatest ever disguise on the worst night of their lives; Henry in a busy-sounding college games room, smiling and smirking as though everything is normal. It's fitting that the last sentence of sentiment, which comes from Elizabeth, is: "I love you, Henry." But it's like a dagger to the heart, a pain that's enhanced a moment later when Henry ends the call with eight simple words: "I'll see you next week. Okay, bye, Dad." Henry has often been the background character or the punchline for jokes; here, he's the most important character the show has ever had. It's gutting, and the absolute perfect ending for that relationship.So many great scenes but I'll go with when Stan confronts Philip and Elizabeth.There were a lot of really great scenes in this nicely done series finale. I was so torn between this scene and the beautifully shot ending sequences, but I chose this one, because at least for me, Philip has always been the heart of this cathartic espionage semi-tragic story and so it was Matthew Rhys' monologue pleading with Stan that moved me to tears, and I could not say no to it. It might be true that one could have imagined other endings for this series, but the one the writers chose felt so perfectly on par with what they have always done, something painful, but yet subdued in spite of itself. The Americans was never my favorite series, but it deserved all of the critical acclaim it received for some of the best acting and for its subversive take on the period espionage drama.Elizabeth and Philip see Paige on the train station, realizing she's basically abandoned them. The entire series finale was haunting and extraordinary, including this scene and its execution. First of all, the music choice, U2's "With or Without You," was somehow so fitting. Just when their passports had been checked and you see Elizabeth's relief that theyre inching closer to their escape, she looks out the window to see that her daughter, one whom she trained to sort of follow in her footsteps, has left them behind and chosen to live in America. I loved the suddenness of the moment, the true sadness of it, pumped by the song as soon as Elizabeth sees Paige outside. Her face and expressions, as her hands are on the window taking a final look at her daughter, it is all a work of art by Keri Russell. We've rarely seen this character break down her walls and yet in this moment, she perfectly displays the grief of a mother. Losing Henry was still a choice both, Elizabeth and Philip, were grappling with and then losing Paige like this is clearly devastating. I loved that Philip's instant reaction on seeing Paige was to immediately go up to Elizabeth and silently, they comforted one another. Im glad they showed Paiges lonesome expression as she stood alone on that platform, too. Maybe she chose to stay for Henry, or maybe she realized it's the only home she knows, or maybe it was her fight with Elizabeth in the previous episode, or Philip telling Stan in the parking lot that theyve lost sight of why they do this. It all added up and shes made a choice and she has to live with it. A masterful scene.The scene where June sees Emily in the market for the first time since Emilys return to Gilead. The handmaids start introducing themselves to each other with their given birth names. Their whispered words are a small, beautiful step towards freedom. It also made me think of the power of our given names. When Africans were horribly ripped from their families and home and brought to America, they too were given new names by the slave owners. So as much as we like to think that the Handmaid's Tale is pure science-fiction, there is a lot of truth in it and that is terrifying.It's nice to see the handmaids stick together like this and slowly start to dare to break free from all of the restrictions.The Opening scene. What a powerful scene. It was beautifully shot and terrifyingly sad.I just want to preface this with the fact that I hated that this happened, the scene broke my heart and angered me because of the implications this has for the rest of the series. With that being said, it doesn't change the fact that this scene grabbed a hold of me and refused to let go until I felt all the emotions of losing a character that I have loved and hated with equal measure throughout this show. The non-verbal acting of Phoebe and the direction of Charles Michael Davis was great. Hayley was pinned by Greta and had a moment of hope (no pun intended) when she saw her daughter's father bust in followed by the man she had deeply loved, Elijah. She then had the devastating realization that Elijah was not there to save her and Klaus was physically unable to because of Elijah. She ran the gambit of emotions silently and took one final slow look at an incapacitated Klaus and then their unconscious daughter and decided the only way to save Hope was to sacrifice herself and she did it without hesitation. Say what you want about Hayley over the course of the series, but one cannot deny her devotion, fierce protection and love for Hope.It was a perfect moment and she went out like a bada*s. A really captivating performance by Phoebe who killed it with every fiber of her being. I will miss U Hayley Marshall.I think a lot of viewers expected to see Ford again, but some of us weren't sure in what capacity. And although I hope we see Host Ford at some point, I'm definitely going to enjoy this trip down the rabbit hole exploring "The Cradle" and see all that can happen inside the Matrix, errr I mean the mainframe!This was a chilling end to the episode. The return of Anthony Hopkins is a memorable one, and even though it was a short scene, it was super effective, portraying Hopkins at his most Hannibal Lecter-esque.By Sakeus Iikela



President Hage Geingob has called on the international community to compel Morocco to implement a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for Western Sahara's independence.



Geingob made the call at State House yesterday during the official visit of the president of Western Sahara, Brahim Ghali, to Namibia. Ghali's three-day state visit will focus on enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries.



The two presidents will also look at the latest developments on the Sahrawi issue at African and international levels.



Western Sahara remains one of the world's last major non-self-governing territories. Morocco controls most of the territory as its southern province.



However, Morocco's rule over the territory is not internationally recognised and is disputed by the Polisario Front, which has claimed independence for the territory. Namibia is among the countries which have supported Western Sahara in its struggle for independence.



During Ghali's visit, Geingob said the two countries enjoyed "outstanding relations", rooted in the struggle for freedom and independence.



He added that the Western Sahara had supported Namibia's liberation struggle.



"The fact that we have accorded you full state honour means that we have a commitment to the Sahrawi people as it happened to us to have a right to self-determination and independence," he said.



"Namibia continues to reaffirm its solidarity with the people of Western Sahara, and calls for the full implementation of the UN settlement plan for that country," Geingob stated.



He said Namibia would continue to contribute to the UN committee tasked with bringing about independence to "colonial countries and people".



Other African Union member countries would also work to "encourage the Kingdom of Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic" to engage in direct talks. (SPS)



062/SPS

https://www.namibian.com.na/67799/read/We-want-Western-Sahara-independent-%E2%80%93-GeingobHalloween is almost here, and while visiting a haunted house or telling scary stories or legends can be fun, it is even more exciting to see and experience ghost stories in real life.

Once booming areas all over the world now sit abandoned and decaying, making for the perfect eerie Halloween escape.T he team behind Hammersmiths Mahdi will launch a brand new luxury Persian restaurant called Beluga in Notting Hill Gate.

The new West London site will offer guests a luxury dining experience with a VIP bar and private restaurant rooms.

Beluga will feature Swarovski chandeliers and Versace cutlery as well as wallpaper by Italian designer Roberto Cavalli, in the hope that it will attract high-end diners.

The restaurants menu will serve mixed grills and meze-style dishes, similar to its sister restaurant Mahdi, as well as the food the restaurant is named after - caviar.

It will also offer an exclusive cocktail bar with high-end cocktails - a first for Notting Hill Persia restaurant group, who have not yet ventured into the drinks sector.

Food. Bars. Going out. Delivered weekly Email Sign up Sign up I would like to be emailed about offers, event and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice {{message}} {{permutiveUid}} {{message}}

Good Food Guide 2018: Top 50 UK restaurants - the top 10 in pictures 1 /12 Good Food Guide 2018: Top 50 UK restaurants - the top 10 in pictures #1 Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, Cornwall #1 Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, Cornwall The view of Port Isaac from the restaurant #2 L'Enclume, Cumbria #3 Pollen Street Social, London #3 Pollen Street Social, London #4 Restaurant Sat Bains, Nottinghamshire #5 The Fat Duck, Berkshire #6 Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, London #7 Hedone, London #8 Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Tayside #9 Claude Bosi at Bibendum, London Adrian Lourie #10 Casamia, Bristol

Arman Rahiminejad Tafreshi, of Notting Hill Persia restaurant group, told the Standard: "Its going to be fantastic."

"It will change Persian cuisine for London and be something no one has ever seen before.The announcement came as a surprise to many of the model's followers as Kloss and Kushner - who is the younger brother of Jared Kushner, husband of Ivanka Trump - announced their engagement less than three months ago.

While most weddings take a year or longer to plan, if you just cant wait to marry your love, would you ever consider planning a wedding in one month?

We spoke to Jess Dumas, Events Manager at Londons Groucho Club, who regularly plans wedding in under a month  her record being in three days  who said that yes, it really is possible.

"The idea that a wedding needs to take a year plus to plan is nonsense," she told the Standard. "The record for our fastest wedding was three days: I had the most relaxed, cool (and pregnant) couple who had booked a wedding with us just a few months before their wedding date.

She explained: "With just a week to go the couple hadnt given me numbers, food choices or any details. I finally received their details just three days before the wedding. We rallied, absorbed all the stress for the couple and worked our magic. They had the most wonderful, seamless day that looked as though it had taken a year to plan (little did their guests know).

So how did she do it?

This is Jess' cheat sheet for planning a wedding in less than a month:

No.1: Book a venue

The venue is certainly the top of your to-do list and everything else will fall into place.

Once the venue is booked and the date is in the diary, you can send out your invites, chose a dress to suit the venue and start planning the fun stuff such as the food and drink. Dont treat the tasting as a task, but make it a long lunch or dinner date and really look at each other and enjoy a bit of alone time. You dont get much of that around your wedding.

Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club - in pictures 1 /12 Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club - in pictures Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club Halfpenny London at The Groucho Club

Give your notice to the council

One drawback is getting your registrar to perform the ceremony on the date you need. For a one-month wedding remember that you must give your 28-day notice to the council.

Trust your gut instincts

"Dont over-think things  your gut instinct is usually right when it comes to taste. And, with less time, you cant sweat the small stuff. These couples are able to let go and just focus on their partner which is how it should be  everyones much happier this way, trust me.

The Groucho Club

Big wedding or small wedding? It's all the same

Size doesnt matter. Weddings big or small are a production and require a firm grip on all the details. Whether you want an intimate wedding of just 30 of your closest pals or a 150-person shindig, all the details are the same, its just the quantity that changes.

Consider the day after the wedding just as much as the day of

What every couple always says after a wedding without fail is I wish I could do it all over again. They all want a second day out of it and I advise all of our couples to consider the day after the event just as much as the day of. Gathering round over brunch the morning after looking at photos and reminiscing about the celebrations is one of the best and most relaxing parts of a wedding weekend.

The top tip?

Dont forget why youre doing this.O ne man is fighting for life after a double shooting in Peckham that saw one man "shot in the face", according to reports.

Armed officers rushed to the scene at Wodehouse Avenue shortly before 8pm on Saturday following reports of a shooting, police said.

The two young men - both in their 20s - were found suffering gun shot injuries.

Local residents on Facebook claimed one victim had been "shot in the face".

It came just one hour after another man was repeatedly stabbed elsewhere in south-east London.

An air ambulance landed near to the scene in Peckham, and one man was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.

He remains there in a critical condition, police said.

The second man was taken to hospital for assessment. His injuries are not life threatening.

A picture from the scene shared on Twitter showed a car with its door open and the driver's window blown out.

A large police presence stood nearby as a section 60 order, which allows police to stop and search people without reasonable grounds, was put in place until 7am on Sunday.

One woman, Perin Tahsin, wrote on Facebook: "Someones been shot in the face on Southampton way outside Oliver Goldsmith school. Road is blocked, armed police walking around."

Scotland Yard said in a statement: "Police in Southwark were called to Wodehouse Avenue at 7.56pm on Saturday, June 2 following reports of a shooting.

"Officers, including armed police, attended and found two men - both believed aged in their 20s - suffering gun shot injuries.

"No arrests have been made. A crime scene remains in place.

"Enquiries continue. The Trident and Area Crime Command has been informed."

Earlier on Saturday, a man in his 40s was repeatedly stabbed on Claremont Street, in Greenwich.

He was taken to a south London hospital after the incident at around 6.45pm.

A spokeswoman for Met Police said his injuries are not thought to be life threatening.A 1 million painting stolen six years ago has been returned to its owners after it was discovered under a drug dealer's bed.

The work, by Sir Stanley Spencer and titled Cookham from Englefield, was taken from the Stanley Spencer Gallery, Berkshire, in 2012.

Its whereabouts remained a mystery until police arrested Harry Fisher, 28, in June last year after finding a kilogram of cocaine and 30,000 in cash in his Mercedes.

Officers discovered the artwork under a bed next to three kilograms of cocaine and 15,000 ecstasy tablets when they searched his flat in Kingston-upon-Thames, west London.

A further raid on his family home in Fulham found more Class A drugs, making a total street value of 450,000, and 40,000 in cash.

Fisher was jailed for eight years and eight months at Kingston Crown Court in October, having pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, acquiring criminal property and handling stolen goods, Scotland Yard said.

His passenger at the time of arrest, Zak Lal, 32, of Rochester, Kent, was jailed for five years and eight months after admitting conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, acquiring criminal property and possession of an offensive weapon, police said.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said the painting's owners, who were "devastated" at the loss, were finally reunited with the artwork last month.

Arts Minister Michael Ellis said: "Spencer is one our most renowned painters and a true great of the 20th century. It is wonderful that this story has had a happy ending and the painting has been returned to its rightful owners."

Detective Constable Sophie Hayes, of the Metropolitan Police's art and antiques unit, said: "The art and antiques unit was delighted to assist with the recovery and return of this important painting.

"The circumstances of its recovery underline the links between cultural heritage crime and wider criminality.

"The fact that the painting was stolen five years before it was recovered did not hinder a prosecution for handling stolen goods, demonstrating the Met will pursue these matters wherever possible, no matter how much time has elapsed."

Described by the Stanley Spencer Gallery gallery as one of "our greatest British artists", Sir Stanley often used the Berkshire village of Cookham as inspiration for his work during a 45-year career.A teenager who died after a car ploughed into pedestrians has been praised by her family as a "little angel".

Sophie Smith, 19, died in hospital on Friday after the incident at a car meet in Manchester the previous evening.

She was one of seven people, along with her boyfriend, taken to hospital after being injured in Europa Way, Trafford Park.

Her family said in a statement: "Sophie was an amazing daughter, sister and girlfriend and our hearts are broken.

"We will always love her and never forget the time we spent together. Sophie was our little angel and loved by everyone who knew her.

"A big empty space has been left in our souls and life will never be the same without her. We will always be thinking about her and she will be in our hearts forever."

Scene of a accident where a car crashed into pedestrians in Trafford, Manchester. / Kirk Andrew Cleaver / Flynet - SplashNews

Her boyfriend, identified only as Jordan, who was also injured in the collision, added: "To my beautiful girlfriend Sophie.

"Our time together may have been short but I was the luckiest person in the world to experience the love we shared, the laughs we had and plans for the future that have been lost forever.

"You are my world, my love, my princess and always will be. Sleep tight princess, you're my angel."

On Sunday, Scott Watkins, 24, of Worsley Road North, Salford, was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing death whilst uninsured/unlicensed, four counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop after a road traffic collision and failing to report a road traffic collision.

He will appear at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Monday.

A 21-year-old man arrested earlier has been bailed pending further enquiries and a 26-year-old man has been released under investigation.

Police have appealed for dashcam footage and anyone with information to come forward.P eople have hailed the "tremendous bravery" of London's emergency services one year on from the London Bridge attack.

It comes as Londoners are sharing messages of hope and solidarity to mark the anniversary of the atrocity which left eight people dead.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan called on people to pay tribute to the innocent victims of the "cowardly act" last June by sending messages of resilience using the hashtag #LondonUnited.

Mr Khan said he is proud of how the capital has responded one year on from the attack by "staying true to our values and way of life".

Emergency services tending to the wounded after the June 3 attack / PA

Members of emergency services throughout the UK marked the anniversary by paying tribute to police and medical staff in London.

London Bridge terror attack - one year on

NHS England said London Ambulance Service "showed dedication, professionalism and extraordinary ability" in the face of terror.

"We are grateful to all emergency services who work to save lives," the health body wrote on Twitter.

The National Police Chiefs' Council also tweeted in recognition of the capital's police officers.

NPCC tweeted: "Today marks a year since the London Bridge attack and our thoughts are with those people who lost loved ones.

"That night police officers ran towards danger to keep people safe and we pay tribute to them."

Emergency services in London also shared messages to mark a year since the June 3 violence when a terrorist trio drove a van into pedestrians on London Bridge, before stabbing revellers in the nearby Borough Market with 12-inch ceramic knives.

London's Air Ambulance released a video showing paramedic Bill speaking for the first time about his role in the response, dedicated to those who lost their life that day.

British Transport Police tweeted: "Today were remembering the attack at London Bridge and Borough Market, one year ago.

"Thinking of the people who lost their lives, all those affected by events 12 months ago...and those who ran towards the danger that night."

Heroes of London Bridge attack - in pictures 1 /7 Heroes of London Bridge attack - in pictures Dr Malcolm Tunnicliff, clinical director and consultant in emergency medicine at Kings Malcolm Tunnicliff featured in TV programme 24 Hours in A&E Ex-police officer Darren Jaundrill Matt Writtle Joe Palermo, a bouncer from Italy Joe Palermo helped people to shelter in Bill's Matt Writtle Baker Florin Morariu Journalist Geoff Ho was stabbed in the neck while trying to help others Twitter

LAS wrote: "Today, one year on, we remember everyone affected by the London Bridge attacks.

"We would also like to thank again our staff and all the emergency services who responded quickly, bravely and professionally in very difficult circumstances that night."

One member of LAS, Lauren Smith, wrote: "It was the hardest night watching it unfold and knowing my @Ldn_Ambulance colleagues were there.

"Those at the scene, in the control room, at HQ managing the incident and everyone who worked on it for weeks and months afterwards are heroes. And they dont even realise it."

London Fire Brigade tweeted: "Our thoughts are with all those who were affected by the #LondonBridge attack a year ago today."

Meanwhile staff from across the Met Police shared their tweets of support.

Jim Cole of Met Police in Southwark said: "Thinking of the people killed, injured and the tremendous bravery of the men and women I work with who put themselves at risk to save others. #Proud."

The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby urged prayer for those still suffering a year on from the attack.

He tweeted: "Let us pray for those still suffering after the London Bridge attack, with deep compassion for wounded and bereaved.

"Today many who witnessed, acted with courage and saved life will feel sorrow. Let us stand with them in thankfulness for their courage."

London Bridge attack: Police officer who fought off terrorists speaks about his recovery

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said his thoughts are with all those affected by the terror attack.

Mr Corbyn tweeted: "Just as after the attacks in Manchester and Finsbury Park, our communities stood together and refused to be divided, even in the face of great tragedy."

He also praised hero police officer Wayne Marques, who was stabbed as he confronted all three attackers.

Prime Minister Theresa May said London's resolve against terrorism has never been stronger, ahead of a national minute's silence to commemorate victims of the attack.

She said: "Today we remember those who died and the many more who were injured, and also pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened or came to the aid of others.

"The many stories of courage demonstrated that night will always stay with me - such as Ignacio Echeverria, who died after confronting the terrorists with the only thing he had, his skateboard, and Geoff Ho, who spent almost two weeks in hospital after being stabbed in the neck as he shielded his friends."

Those killed in the attack were Canadian Christine Archibald, 30, James McMullan, 32, from Hackney, Frenchmen Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sebastien Belanger, 36 and Xavier Thomas, 45, Australians Kirsty Boden, 28 and Sara Zelenak 21, and Spaniard Ignacio Echeverria, 39.

The Dean of Southwark, The Very Revd Andrew Nunn, who will host the service of commemoration, said the Tree of Healing will be "a constant reminder to us all of those who were harmed but also of the importance of our communities coming together to stand against violence in all its forms".The PM said Britain's resolve to "stand firm" against terrorism was stronger than ever on the anniversary of the attack.

Eight people were killed and almost 50 injured when three Islamic State group-inspired attackers ran down pedestrians on the bridge, then stabbed people at bars and restaurants in nearby Borough Market on a warm spring evening. The three attackers were shot dead by police within minutes.

The rampage came two weeks after a bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester Arena that killed 22 people.

London Bridge attack memorial service at Southwark Cathedral 1 /6 London Bridge attack memorial service at Southwark Cathedral Sadiq Khan (left) talks to Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn at Southwark Cathedral Sadiq Khan speaks at Southwark Cathedral during the first anniversary of the London Bridge Jeremy Corbyn and Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott walk through Borough Market Theresa May arrives at Southwark Cathedral to attend the first anniversary of the London Bridge terror attack on June 3, 2018 Sajid Javid arrives at Southwark Cathedral Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, arrives at Southwark Cathedral near Borough Market Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images

Survivors, politicians and emergency workers were attending a service Sunday at Southwark Cathedral near London Bridge.

The Dean of Southwark Cathedral Andrew Nunn read the names of those killed in the attack as he welcomed their families, friends, and others who were injured, along with dignitaries, to the service.

Jeremy Corbyn speaks at London Bridge anniversary event

He said: "I hope it helps our healing. Whatever your hopes are, whatever your pain is, whatever has kept you awake at night, whatever anger, sorrow or guilt you are feeling: God is here for you.

Mr Khan performed a reading from Psalm 77 (Getty)

"Love is stronger than hate, light is stronger than darkness and life is stronger than death. It was true a year ago. It is as true today."

Mr Khan followed the Dean with a reading from Psalm 77.

Met Police Commmissioner Cressida Dick, also in attendance, said: The horrific attack on London Bridge and Borough Market will remain vivid in many of our minds.

"One year to the day since that tragic night many of us will reflect and remember in our own way.

Cressida Dick, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service / Getty Images

In the Met we remember those who were injured, all those who continue to come to terms with that night and the eight people tragically killed.

Christine Archibald; Sebastien Belanger; Kirsty Boden; Ignacio Echeverria; James McMullan; Alexandre Pigeard; Xavier Thomas and Sara Zelenak  all deeply and sadly missed.

That night was also characterised by the very best of our City. Acts of the most incredible bravery and of huge compassion.

The nation held a minute of silence at 4:30 p.m, and the words #LondonUnited were projected onto the bridge, which connects London's business district with the lively south bank side of the River Thames.

Mrs May paid tribute to the bravery of first responders and others, including Ignacio Echeverria, a Spanish man who tackled the attackers with his skateboard and died in the attack.

Jeremy Corbyn arrives at Southwark Cathedral / Getty Images

She said the fact that seven of the eight victims came from outside Britain - from France, Spain, Australia and Canada - was "a reflection of our great cosmopolitan capital, whose energy and values brings together people from across the world, and a tragic reminder that the threat from terrorism transcends borders and impacts us all."

The London Bridge carnage was one of a string of attacks in Britain in 2017 involving Islamic or far-right extremists that killed 36 people in all.

Sajid Javid arrives at Southwark Cathedral (Getty Images)

Britain's official threat level from terrorism is "severe," the second-highest of five levels, meaning that an attack is highly likely.

The government said Sunday that "we expect the threat from Islamist terrorism to remain at its current, heightened level for at least the next two years, and that it may increase further."

It said the threat from extreme-right violence is growing.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid said Sunday that he plans to recruit 2,000 new security service officers to help combat the threat.C rashing out of the EU without a deal would leave Britain facing food, fuel and medicine shortages within weeks, according to a worst-case scenario produced by civil servants.

The doomsday Brexit scenario was drawn up for David Davis as part of contingency plans for a no-deal exit, The Sunday Times reported.

Britain could face critical supply shortages as the port of Dover could collapse on day one, according to documents produced for Mr Davis Department for exiting the EU (DExEU).

There are said to be three scenarios  one mild, one severe, and one dubbed Armageddon.

In the second scenario, not even the worst, the port of Dover will collapse on day one, a source told The Sunday Times. The supermarkets in Cornwall and Scotland will run out of food within a couple of days, and hospitals will run out of medicines within two weeks.

Brexit minister: David Davis / AP

The paper said aeroplanes would need to be chartered or the RAF drafted in to transport supplies to far-flung corners of Britain.

At the end of week two we would be running out of petrol as well, the source added.

A DExEU spokesman said discussions on different scenarios had taken place, but dismissed the likelihood of the so-called doomsday outcome becoming reality.

He said: These claims are completely false. A significant amount of work and decision making has gone into our no deal plans, especially where it relates to ports, and we know that none of this would come to pass.

The Sunday Times said it was leaked details of the plans by officials in response to Brexit-backers in government who are overly-confident about the possibility of Britain trading on World Trade Organisation rules in the event of a no-deal exit.

Mark Carney: Families 900 worse off since Brexit

Plans to open up the UK's borders to cope with the lack of a trade deal have triggered worries about whether European countries would be willing to do the same.

The paper quoted a senior official as saying: We are entirely dependent on Europe reciprocating our posture that we will do nothing to impede the flow of goods into the UK. If, for whatever reason, Europe decides to slow that supply down, then were screwed.

Prime Minister Theresa May has had further questions raised about her future / PA

Liberal Democrat MP Layla Moran, who is part of the Best for Britain pro-EU campaign, urged the government to publish the scenarios in full.

She said: "It is utterly reckless that they continue to make these decisions having read these reports, with the damning consequences laid out to them in black and white.

"No-Deal could bring Britain to a grinding halt and threaten the well-being of our country. Thats why the people should be given the final say on the Brexit deal, with the option to stay and lead within the EU."

The report came as hedge fund boss and Tory donor Crispin Odey called for Prime Minister Theresa May to be replaced by Environment Secretary Michael Gove to see the country through the Brexit negotiations.

Mr Odey told the Observer the Prime Minister could not make decisions and would not see Brexit through.

He told the Observer: "Michael has got lots of attributes that make him a non-traditional Tory. He is very aware that he has to appeal not just to the wealthy, but also more broadly.H ome Secretary Sajid Javid was today embroiled in a bitter a row with one of Britains biggest Muslim bodies over allegations of Islamophobia in the Conservative Party.

Mr Javid hit out at the Muslim Council of Britain, accusing it of harbouring members with unacceptable views on extremism.

He said the MCB, an umbrella body for 500 mosques, schools and associations in Britain, did not represent the countrys Muslim community.

His comments came after the MCB called for an inquiry into Islamophobia in the Tories, after a string of alleged incidents involving candidates and representatives of the party.

Criticism: Sajid Javid hit out at the MCB / PA

But Mr Javid told the BBC: The Muslim Council of Britain does not represent Muslims in this country. You find me a group of Muslims that thinks that they're represented by the MCB.

"I would be very suspicious of anything that they've got to say, not least because under the last Labour government and a policy continued by us, we don't deal with the MCB and we don't deal with it because too many of their members have had you know, comments on extremists and that's not acceptable."

The MCB's general secretary, Harun Khan, last week told Mr Lewis that there were "more than weekly occurrences of Islamophobia" by Tory figures in April.

Mr Khan also highlighted alleged Islamophobia in the campaign run by Zac Goldsmith in his unsuccessful bid to beat Labour's Sadiq Khan to become Mayor of London in 2016.

On Sunday, Mr Khan said the Home Secretary had "chosen to shoot the messenger".

He added: "If the response is to instead attack the Muslim Council of Britain, it sadly indicates that the party has no interest in dealing with this matter with the seriousness it deserves.

"We have long spoken out and proactively challenged terrorism and extremism, as have British Muslims across the country.A lawyer for Donald Trump has stressed the president's legal team would contest any effort to force him to testify before a grand jury during the special counsel's Russia probe.

But Rudy Giuliani downplayed the idea that Mr Trump could pardon himself.

In a series of television interviews, Mr Giuliani emphasised one of the main arguments in a newly revealed letter sent by Mr Trump's lawyers to special counsel Robert Mueller back in January - that a president cannot be given a grand jury subpoena as part of the investigation into foreign meddling in the 2016 election.

But he distanced himself from one of their bolder arguments in the letter - that a president could not have committed obstruction of justice because he has authority to "if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon".

Donald Trump grapples with umbrella 1 /9 Donald Trump grapples with umbrella President Donald Trump grappled with his umbrella as he stepped off Air Force One AFP/Getty Images As he disembarked the plane, he put his umbrella up to shield himself from the rain. AFP/Getty Images But he got into difficulty due to the adverse weather conditions. AFP/Getty Images The President, who had touched down after attending a rally in Michigan, struggled to contain the umbrella. REUTERS He pulled a series of faces as he attempted to put it down AFP/Getty Images But nothing appeared to work, despite his efforts. AP Eventually, the President gave up. AFP/Getty Images He descended the steps of the plane, holding the upside-down umbrella aloft. AFP/Getty Images The airman greeting him saluted his arrival - neither of them cracking a smile. AFP/Getty Images

"Pardoning himself would be unthinkable and probably lead to immediate impeachment," Mr Giuliani told NBC's Meet the Press. "And he has no need to do it, he's done nothing wrong."

The former New York City mayor, who was not on the legal team when the letter was written, added that Mr Trump "probably does" have the power to pardon himself, an assertion challenged by legal scholars, but says the president's legal team has not discussed that option, which many observers believe could plunge the nation into a constitutional crisis.

Trump admits he has not read Kim Jong Un's letter

"I think the political ramifications would be tough," Mr Giuliani said. "Pardoning other people is one thing, pardoning yourself is tough."

Mr Trump has issued two unrelated pardons in recent days and discussed others, a move that has been interpreted as a possible signal to allies ensnared in the Russia probe.

President Donald Trump's first year in office - in pictures 1 /40 President Donald Trump's first year in office - in pictures U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington Reuters 20 January 2017 President-elect Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump are greeted by President Barack Obama and his wife first lady Michelle Obama, upon arriving at the White House in Washington, DC. before being sworn in as the nation's 45th president during an inaugural ceremony at the U.S. Capitol Getty Images 20 January 2017 President Barack Obama greets President Elect Donald Trump on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Getty Images 20 January 2017 Attendees line the Mall as they watch ceremonies to swear in Donald Trump on Inauguration Day in Washington, DC Getty Images 20 January 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump sings to the song "My Way" while dancing with first lady Melania Trump during the inaugural Liberty Ball at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC Getty Images 21 January 2017 White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer makes a statement to members of the media at the James Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House in Washington, DC. This was Spicer's first press conference as Press Secretary where he spoke about the media's reporting on the inauguration's crowd size Getty Images 22 January 2017 US President Donald Trump congratulates Senior Counselor to the President Stephen Bannon during the swearing-in of senior staff in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC AFP 22 January 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump (L) shakes hands with James Comey, director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), during an Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception in the Blue Room of the White House in Washington, DC Getty Images 27 January 2017 Prime Minister Theresa May with U.S. President Donald Trump walk along The Colonnade at The White House Getty Images 09 February 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump signs an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House February 9, 2017 in Washington, DC. Prior to signing the three executive orders, Trump participated in the swearing in ceremony for new Attorney General Jeff Sessions (R) along with U.S. Vice President Mike Pence (L) and Sessions's wife Mary (2nd R) Getty Images 19 February 2017 Muslim women protest against US President Donald Trump on in Chicago, Illinois AFP/Getty Images 27 February 2017 Counselor to the President Kellyanne Conway checks her phone after taking a photo as U.S. President Donald Trump and leaders of historically black universities and colleges pose for a group photo in the Oval Office of the White House before a meeting with US Vice President Mike Pence in Washington, DC AFP/Getty Images 17 March 2017 Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel and Ivanka Trump talk before a meeting with US President Donald Trump and business leaders in the Cabinet Room of the White House in Washington, DC AFP/Getty Images 23 March 2017 U.S. President Donald J. Trump gets in the driver's seat of an 18-wheeler while meeting with truck drivers and trucking CEOs on the South Portico prior to their meeting to discuss health care at the White House in Washington, DC, USA, 23 March 2017. The House of Representatives has yet to vote on the Republican-crafted American Health Care Act, that would replace the Affordable Care Act, as it remained unclear whether Republicans had enough votes to overcome opposition from Democrats and those within their own party. EPA/JIM LO SCALZO EPA 17 April 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks from the Truman Balcony with first lady Melania Trump and their son Barron Trump during the 139th Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images 04 May 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump (C) speaks while flanked by House Republicans after they passed legislation aimed at repealing and replacing ObamaCare, during an event in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, DC. The House bill would still need to pass the Senate before being signed into law Getty Images 22 May 2017 US President Donald Trump visits the Western Wall, the holiest site where Jews can pray in Jerusalem's Old City AFP/Getty Images 24 May 2017 Pope Francis walks along with US President Donald Trump and US First Lady Melania Trump during a private audience at the Vatican AFP/Getty Images 26 May 2017 European Council President Donald Tusk, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, U.S. President Donald Trump, Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, British Prime Minister Theresa May and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker pose for the group photo at the G7 Taormina summit on the island of Sicily on May 26, 2017 in Taormina, Italy. Leaders of the G7 group of nations, which includes the Unted States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Italy, as well as the European Union, are meeting at Taormina from May 26-27 Getty Images 7 July 2017 US President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin shake hands during a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, AFP/Getty Images 25 July 2017 Incoming White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci talks with reporters during 'Regional Media Day' at the White House July 25, 2017 in Washington, DC. Conservative media outlets were invited to set up temporary studios on the north side of the West Wing so to interview White House officials and members of President Donald Trump's cabinet Getty Images 28 July 2017 Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) leaves the the Senate chamber at the U.S. Capitol after voting on the GOP 'Skinny Repeal' health care bill on July 28, 2017 in Washington, DC. Three Senate Republicans voted no to block a stripped-down, or 'Skinny Repeal,' version of Obamacare reform Getty Images 22 August 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump looks up toward the Solar Eclipse while joined by his wife first lady Melania Trump on the Truman Balcony at the White House on August 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Millions of people have flocked to areas of the U.S. that are in the "path of totality" in order to experience a total solar eclipse Getty Images 22 August 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump gestures during a rally at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona. An earlier statement by the president that he was considering a pardon for Joe Arpaio,, the former sheriff of Maricopa County who was convicted of criminal contempt of court for defying a court order in a case involving racial profiling, has angered Latinos and immigrant rights advocates Getty Images 15 September 2017 11-year-old Frank "FX" Giaccio (L) gets a pat on the back from U.S. President Donald Trump (C) while mowing the grass in the Rose Garden of the White House September 15, 2017 in Washington, DC. Giaccio, from Falls Church, Virginia, who runs a business called FX Mowing, wrote a letter to Trump expressing admiration for Trump's business background and offered to mow the White House grass Getty Images 03 October 2017 President Donald Trump waves as he arrives at the Muniz Air National Guard Base for a visit after Hurricane Maria hit the island in Carolina, Puerto Rico. The President has been criticized by some that say the governments response has been inadequate Getty Images 11 October 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pose for photographs after Trudeau's arrival at the White House in Washington, DC. The United States, Canada and Mexico engaged in renegotiating the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement Getty Images 23 October 2017 Seven of U.S. President Donald Trump's eight border wall prototypes are shown near completion along U.S.- Mexico border near San Diego, California Reuters 30 October 2017 Former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort gets into his car after leaving federal court, October 30, 2017 in Washington, DC. Paul Manafort and Rick Gates, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in the investigation into alleged Russian meddling in the U.S. election Getty Images 06 November 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump pours fish food out as Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe looks on while they were feeding carps before their working lunch at Akasaka Palace in Tokyo, Japan Reuters 09 November 2017 China's President Xi Jinping (L) and US President Donald Trump review Chinese honour guards during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing AFP/Getty Images 21 November 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, their son Barron, National Turkey Federation Chairman Carl Wittenburg and his family and members of the Draper County, Minnesota, 4-H chapater pose for photographs after Trump pardoned, Drumstick, the National Thanksgiving Turkey in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, DC. Following the presidential pardon, the 40-pound White Holland breed which was raised by Wittenburg in Minnesota, will then reside at his new home, 'Gobbler's Rest,' at Virginia Tech Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images 30 November 2017 President Donald Trump and the first lady Melania Trump attend the 95th annual National Christmas Tree Lighting held by the National Park Service at the White House Ellipse in Washington, D.C. The Beach Boys, Wynonna, The Texas Tenors, Craig Campbell were among the artists who provided the entertainment Getty Images 01 December 2017 Michael Flynn, former national security advisor to President Donald Trump, leaves following his plea hearing at the Prettyman Federal Courthouse in Washington, DC. Special Counsel Robert Mueller charged Flynn with one count of making a false statement to the FBI Getty Images 06 December 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump signs a proclaimation that the U.S. government will formally recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel after signing the document in the Diplomatic Reception Room at the White House December 6, 2017 in Washington, DC. In keeping with a campaign promise, Trump said the United States will move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem sometime in the next few years. No other country has its embassy in Jerusalem Getty Images 14 December 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump cuts a symbolic piece of red tape during an event at the White House promoting the administration's efforts to decrease federal regulations in Washington, DC. The administration has vowed to remove two regulations for every single regulation added in an effort to reduce the amount of bureaucratic "red tape" Getty Images 18 December 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump pauses during a speech at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC. The president was expected to outline a new strategy for U.S. foreign policy through the release of the periodic National Security Strategy, a document that aims to outline major national security concerns and the administration's plans to deal with them Getty Images 20 December 2017 U.S. President Donald Trump, flanked by Republican lawmakers, celebrates Congress passing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on the South Lawn of the White House on December 20, 2017 in Washington, DC. The tax bill is the first major legislative victory for the GOP-controlled Congress and Trump since he took office almost one year ago Getty Images 22 December 2017 A Palestinian protester throws a stone during clashes with Israeli forces near the Huwara checkpoint south of Nablus in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, as protests continue in the region amid anger over US President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as its capital AFP/Getty Images 12 January 2018 US President Donald Trump shakes hands with White House Physician Rear Admiral Dr. Ronny Jackson, following his annual physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland AFP/Getty Images

The letter is dated January 29 and addressed to Mr Mueller from John Dowd, a Trump lawyer who has since resigned from the legal team.

Mr Mueller has requested an interview with the president to determine whether he had criminal intent to obstruct the investigation into his associates' possible links to Russia's election interference.

Kim Kardashian West meets Trump at White House in pardon plea

Mr Giuliani said on Sunday that a decision about an interview would not be made until after Mr Trump's summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore, and he cast doubt that it would occur at all.

"I mean, we're leaning toward not," Mr Giuliani told ABC. "But look, if they can convince us that it will be brief, it would be to the point, there were five or six points they have to clarify, and with that, we can get this - this long nightmare for the - for the American public over."

Mr Trump's legal team has long pushed the special counsel to narrow the scope of its interview.

Mr Giuliani also suggested that Mr Trump's lawyers had been incorrect when they denied that the president was involved with the letter that offered an explanation for Donald Trump Jr's 2016 Trump Tower meeting with Russians who offered damaging information on Democrat Hillary Clinton.

"This is the reason you don't let the president testify," Mr Giuliani told ABC. "Our recollection keeps changing, or we're not even asked a question and somebody makes an assumption."

If Mr Trump does not consent to an interview, Mr Mueller will have to decide whether to go forward with a historic grand jury subpoena. His team raised the possibility in March of subpoenaing the president, but it is not clear if it is still under active consideration.T wo climbers have plunged to their deaths from the world famous El Capitan rock face in the US.

The fall happened as the pair scaled the rock formation in Yosemite National Park, California, on Saturday.

They were using the so-called Freeblast route up the face when they fell at about 8.15am (3.15pm GMT).

The US National Park Service identified the climbers as Jason Wells, 46, of Boulder, Colorado, and Tim Klien, 42, of Palmdale, California.

No other information on the climbers or how high they were up on the sheer granite rock face was immediately available. Park rangers are investigating the incident.

El Capitan, which looms 3,000 feet (914 m) above the floor of Yosemite Valley, is one of the best-known landmarks in the national park and is considered a world-class challenge for rock climbers.

A British climber was killed and his wife was badly injured last September when a rockslide from El Capitan rained boulders onto a popular hiking trail.

More than 100 climbing accidents occur in Yosemite every year, and 51 climbers died from traumatic injuries in the park from 1970 through to 1990, according to data posted online by the Park Service.A pilot whale has died off southern Thailand after swallowing 80 plastic bags, marine officials said.

The whale vomited five bags during a desperate five-day effort by conservation officials to save it in a canal in the province Songkhla.

The animal died later on Friday, the Marine and Coastal Resources Department said on its website.

An autopsy found eight kg of rubbish in the whale's stomach.

Marine experts said the debris had made it impossible for the animal to hunt for food.

Thai Marine Biologist officials rescue an ailing and immobile short-finned pilot whale in Songkhla province / EPA

The small male pilot whale had been discovered sick and unable to swim in the Na Thap Canal last Monday.

Environment officials used boats to attempt to float the whale and erected a sunshade for it.

Marine biologist Thon Thamrongnawasawat told Agence France-Presse that the bags would have made it impossible for the whale to eat nutritional food.

"If you have 80 plastic bags in your stomach, you die," he said.

Jatuporn Buruspat, head of the department, said they planned to raise public awareness of the problem on World Oceans Day on June 8 and call for reduced use of plastic.

"We will use the whale case and invite all sectors to show their intentions on how to reduce the use of plastic in Thailand," he told Reuters.

Locals in Thailand use huge numbers of plastic bags but authorities have launched campaigns to try to encourage people to use fewer and to introduce reusable bags.T he Britain's Got talent judges were dazzled as finalists The Giang Brothers performed a daring leap that they had never completed without a safety harness before the final.

Giang Quoc Co and Giang Quoc Nghiep, who are from Vietnam, made it through to Sunday night's final with their acrobatic show, which sees one carry the other on his head as he walks up stairs.

During Sunday night's final the brothers stepped it up a notch.

Watch their incredible full stunt in the video below.

As the audience gasped, the acrobat jumped from a step on to a platform with his brother on his head.

Judge David Walliams said it was "beyond beyond", while Simon Cowell told the pair: "My God, you upped your game."

Amanda Holden said the brothers were "utterly extraordinary". Eleven acts are competing in the final of the ITV programme.

The Giang Brothers left viewers across the country gasping, with Paul Duckworth calling the pair "astonishing".

Others demanded the siblings be given the show's top prize.

While Chris Turner had this very logical response:

Ten made it through during this week's live semi-finals and one act, the B-Positive Choir, were picked as the judges' wildcard.

The show opened with a hilarious song and dance routine that saw presenter Declan Donnelly showing off his own acrobatic trick - a handstand.

The acts are vying to win 250,000 and a spot at The Royal Variety Performance.

Cowell has also previously hinted that he has a special prize in store for this year's winner.This will document that the new Cold War between the US and Russia did not start, as the Western myth has it, with Russias involvement in the breakaway of Crimea and Donbass from Ukraine, after Ukraine  next door to Russia  had suddenly turned rabidly hostile toward Russia in February 2014. Ukraines replacing its democratically elected neutralist Government in February 2014, by a rabidly anti-Russian Government, was a violent event, which produced many corpses. Its presented in The West as having been a revolution instead of a coup; but whatever it was, it certainly generated the new Cold War (the economic sanctions and NATO buildup on Russias borders); and, to know whether it was a coup, or instead a revolution, is to know what actually started the new Cold War, and why. So, this is historically very important.

Incontrovertible proofs will be presented here not only that it was a coup, but that this coup was organized by the US Government  that the US Government initiated the new Cold War; Russias Government reacted to Americas aggression, which aims to place nuclear missiles in Ukraine, less than ten minutes flight-time from Moscow. During the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, America had reason to fear Soviet nuclear missiles 103 miles from Americas border. But, after Americas Ukrainian coup in 2014, Russia has reason to fear NATO nuclear missiles not just near, but on, Russias border. That would be catastrophic.

If Americas successful February 2014 overthrow and replacement of Ukraines democratically elected neutralist Government doesnt soon produce a world-ending nuclear war (World War III), then there will be historical accounts of that overthrow, and the accounts are already increasingly trending and consolidating toward a historical consensus that it was a coup  that it was imposed by somebody from the new coalition  i.e., that the termination of the then-existing democratic (though like all its predecessors, corrupt) Ukrainian Government, wasnt authentically a revolution such as the US Government has contended, and certainly wasnt at all democratic, but was instead a coup (and a very bloody one, at that), and totally illegal (though backed by The West).

The purpose of the present article will be to focus attention on precisely whom the chief people are who were responsible for perpetrating this globally mega-dangerous (Cold-War-igniting) coup  and thus for creating the worlds subsequent course increasingly toward global nuclear annihilation.

If there will be future history, then these are the individuals who will be in the docks for that historys harshest and most damning judgments, even if there will be no legal proceedings brought against them. Who, then, are these people?

Clearly, Victoria Nuland, US President Barack Obamas central agent overseeing the coup, at least during the month of February 2014 when it climaxed, was crucial not only in overthrowing the existing Ukrainian Government, but in selecting and installing its rabidly anti-Russian replacement. The 27 January 2014 phone-conversation between her and Americas Ambassador in Ukraine, Jeffrey Pyatt was a particularly seminal event, and it was uploaded to youtube on 4 February 2014. I have discussed elsewhere that call and its significance. Nuland there and then abandoned the EUs hope for a still democratic but less corrupt future government for Ukraine, and Nuland famously said, on that call Fuck the EU, and she instructed Pyatt to choose instead the rabidly anti-Russian, and far-right, Arseniy Yatsenyuk. This key event occurred 24 days before Ukraines President Victor Yanukovych was overthrown on February 20th, and 30 days before the new person to head Ukraines Government, Yatsenyuk, became officially appointed to rule the now clearly fascist country. He won that official designation on February 26th. However, this was only a formality: Obamas agent had already chosen him, on January 27th.

The second landmark item of evidence that it had been a coup and nothing at all democratic or a revolution, was the 26 February 2014 phone-conversation between the EUs Foreign Minister Catherine Ashton and her agent in Ukraine investigating whether the overthrow had been a revolution or instead a coup; he was Estonias Foreign Minister, Urmas Paet, and he told her that he found that it had been a coup, and that somebody from the new coalition had engineered it  but he didnt know whom that somebody was. Both Ashton and Paet were shocked at this finding, but they proceeded immediately to ignore that matter, and to discuss only the prospects for Europes investors in Ukraine, to be able to get their money back  their obsession was Ukraine's corruption. Ashton told Paet that she had herself told the Maidan demonstrators, you need to find ways in which you can establish a process that will have anti-corruption at its heart. So, though the EU was unhappy that this had been a coup, they were far more concerned to protect their investors. In any case, the EU clearly wasnt behind Ukraine's coup. Equally clearly, they didnt much care whether it was a coup or instead what the US Government said, a revolution'.

The network behind this coup had actually started planning for the coup back in 2011. Thats when Eric Schmidt of Google, and Jared Cohen, also now of Google but still continuing though unofficially as US Secretary of State Hillary Clintons chief person tasked to plan popular movements to overthrow both Yanukovych in Ukraine, and Assad in Syria.

Then, on 1 March 2013, the implementation of this plan started: the first tech camp to train far-right Ukrainians how to organize online the mass-demonstrations against Yanukovych, was held inside the US Embassy in Kiev on that date, which was over nine months before the Maidan demonstrations to overthrow Ukraines democratically elected President started, on 20 November 2013.

The American scholar Gordon M. Hahn has specialized in studying the evidence regarding whom the actual snipers were who committed the murders, but he focuses only on domestic Ukrainian snipers and ignores the foreign ones, who had been hired by the US regime indirectly through Georgian, Lithuanian and other anti-Russian CIA assets (such as via Mikheil Saakashvili, the ousted President of Georgia whom the US regime subsequently selected to become the Governor of the Odessa region of Ukraine). Hahns 2018 book Ukraine Over the Edge states on pages 204-209:

"Yet another pro-Maidan sniper, Ivan Bubenchik, emerged to acknowledge that he shot and killed Berkut [the Governments police who were protecting Government buildings] before any protesters were shot that day [February 20th]. In a print interview, Bubenchik previews his admission in Vladimir Tikhiis documentary film, Brantsy, that he shot ahd killed two Berkut commanders in the early morning hours of February 20 on the Maidan.  Bubenchik claims that [on February 20] the Yanukovich regime started the fire in the Trade Union House  where his and many other EuroMaidan fighters lived during the revolt  prompting the Maidans next reaction. As noted above, however, pro-Maidan neofascists have revealed that the Right Sector started that fire.  Analysis of the snipers massacre shows that the Maidan protesters initiated almost all  at least six out of a possible eight  of the pivotal escalatory moments of violence and/or coercion.  The 30 November 2013 nighttime assault on the Maidan demonstrators is the only clear exception from a conclusive pattern of escalating revolutionary violence led by the Maidans relatively small but highly motivated and well-organized neofascist element."

Although Hahns book barely cites the first and most detailed academic study of the climactic coup period of late February, Ivan Katchanovskis poorly written The Snipers Massacre on the Maidan in Ukraine, which was issued on 5 September 2015, Hahns is consistent with that: both works conclude that the available evidence, as Katchanovski puts it, shows that:

The massacre was a false flag operation, which was rationally planned and carried out with a goal of the overthrow of the government and seizure of power. It [his investigation] found various evidence of the involvement of an alliance of the far right organizations, specifically the Right Sector and Svoboda, and oligarchic parties, such as Fatherland. Concealed shooters and spotters were located in at least 20 Maidan-controlled buildings or areas.

Hahn downplays US heading of the coup. But shortly before the coup, the CIA secretly trained in Poland the Right Sector founder/leader Dmitriy Yarosh ("Dmytro Jarosz"), who headed Ukraines snipers. So, even the Ukrainian ones were working for the US

On 19 November 2017 was issued Gian Micalessins The hidden truth about Ukraine  Part 1

& Part 2

Summarizing them here: Two Georgian snipers say Saakashvili hired them in Tbilisi for a US-backed operation. But they know only about the Georgian Legion part. They think it was patterned on Georgias Rose Revolution. They each got $1000 for the operation and flew to Kiev on 15 January and were promised $5000 on return. (9:00) We had to provoke the Berkut police so they would attack the people. By February 15th the situation [at the Maidan] was getting worse every day. Then the first shots were fired. It was February 15 or 16. Mamunashvili [Saakashvilis man] introduced them to an American military guy,  Brian Christopher Boyenger a former sniper for the 101st Airborne Division who after Maidan he went to Donbass to fight in the Georgian Legion but during the coup-climax, the far-right Andriy Parubiy came very often, and Brian always accompanied him and also instructing there was Vladimir Parasyuk, one of the leaders of the Maidan. The snipers were told not to aim but just to kill people randomly, to create chaos. There were also two Lithuanian snipers in the room. Some went down from the Ukraine Hotel to the second floor of the Conservatory Building, balcony. They started to take out the guns and distributed them to each group. Then I heard shots from the next room It lasted 15 minutes, then they were all ordered to escape.

On 13 February 2015 was telecast a German documentary, Maidan Snipers. German TV expose. ARD Monitor. Eng Subs in which one of the demonstrators said that many of the bullets were fired from buildings controlled by the demonstrators, but that We were also shot at from the other direction. However, at least before 21 February 2014, police (Berkut) were seized by demonstrators and at least the possibility exists that some of the Right Sector snipers were taking positions in and especially atop some of the government buildings so as to fire down into the crowd and seem to be firing from Yanukovychs side. Gordon Hahn hasnt been able to verify any firing in February 2014 by the Yanukovych government. Moreover: they were the same snipers, killing people from both sides.

On 1 February 2016 was posted to youtube a French documentary, Ukraine  Masks of the Revolution which shows, from a meeting at Davos, at 48:00, Victoria Nuland, the announcer trying to speak with her and saying to the audience, The US diplomat who came to support the Revolution, could she really ignore the existence of the paramilitaries?; 48:50 Larry Summers at a meeting in Kiev during 10-12 September 2015 and then later at the 12th YES Annual Meeting saying, Ukraine is an essential outpost of our fundamental military interests; 49:25: Petraeus also shown there and the announcer says, He also thinks that Ukraine is essential to block Putin. Petraeus urges investment in Ukraine to block Russia; 51:00 McChrystal there also urges arming Ukraine; 51:50 Nuland is there and the announcer says: The country that is most invested in Ukraines future is the US She is the architect of Americas influence in Ukraine. Nuland says there at the YES meeting, We had a significant impact on the battlefield. But the US regime blames Russia for that war.

Gordon Hahns restriction of blame for the coup only to native Ukrainian nazis doesnt fit the evidence, because there clearly is leadership of Ukraines nazis by the US regime. Furthermore, the US regime and its Ukrainian client-state are the only two nations at the U.N. who vote and repeatedly to back fascism, nazism and Holocaust-denial. The anti-Russia nazis took over Americas Government, which has taken over Ukraines. All of this goes back to the key US decision, which was made on 24 February 1990.The opportunity that has arisen to help the world step back from the nuclear abyss and make progress toward resolving the issue of North Korea is too important to let slip. The US has done its best to spoil things, true to its bull in a china shop policy. It is left for the other relevant actors to find ways to salvage the situation. That is exactly what the Europeans are trying to do now that Washington has withdrawn from the Iran nuclear deal. This is the time when actors who enjoy international credibility need to step in and give diplomacy a chance.

On May 31, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to discuss the prospects for the still fragile negotiation process and to invite him to visit Moscow. The parties agreed to schedule a summit. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. There has been no Russian-N. Korean summit since 2000, when President Putin visited Pyongyang.

Russia supports the phased lifting of sanctions against the DPRK, in tandem with gradual denuclearization, which cannot be achieved at one go. The talks revealed Pyongyangs readiness to denuclearize step-by-step  which is a good basis for further talks, but Washington wants it to disarm all at once, without any security guarantees in return. The fate of the US-N.Korean top-level meeting slated for June 12 in Singapore is still hanging in the balance.

Moscow has expressed its support of the joint Panmunjom Declaration on the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, which was made public in April. Its push for peace is aligned with the goals and efforts initiated by South Korea, Japan, and China and is based on the Russian-Chinese joint statement on North Koreas problems that was issued last July. That document proposes a joint initiative for a gradual settlement of the nuclear problem.

During the visit, Mr. Lavrov also discussed ways to expand relations during the meeting with his N. Korean counterpart, Ri Yong Ho. In addition, he conveyed the message that Russia is interested in pursuing joint economic projects, including railway construction, that are a win-win for everyone. A railway could connect Seoul with Europe by passing through Russian territory.

The reduction of tensions could make it possible to open up oil and gas pipelines stretching from Russia to South Korea and China. Ships would visit N. Korean ports. The parties are involved in talks on building a new bridge across the Tumen River that would allow traffic to cross directly, without making a lengthy detour through China. The two nations have their eyes on a trading future beyond the sanctions and military tensions. Moscow does not view punitive measures as an effective foreign-policy tool. And Pyongyang has been subject to them since 2006. They havent stopped it from going nuclear and have had no influence on Pyongyangs foreign policy.

Russia can make a substantial contribution to the budding peace process. It has lucrative economic projects to offer and its clout in the Asia-Pacific region is rising. Moscow has welcomed the planned summit between the US and North Korea. Actually, Lavrovs visit contributed to galvanizing the N. Korea-US dialog. Washington needs a foreign policy breakthrough before the November mid-term elections, but a framework agreement serving as a basis for further long, hard talks is the most realistic scenario. Even if the anticipated meeting does not take place, the negotiation process is likely to start with Russia playing an important role.

Moscow is not doing any of this just to score points before the elections, but because normalizing the situation on the peninsula is of vital interest. After all, the recently demolished N. Korean nuclear test site was located only 200 km. from its border. For the US, the DPRK is a security problem, which could potentially turn into a threat, but Russia views that nation as a neighbor with whom it shares a border. Moscow is not trying to beat America to the punch, but is rather protecting its own vital national interests.

Now that the US has left the Paris climate accord, the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement, and the Iran deal and is teetering on the edge of tearing up the INF Treaty with Russia, its hardly a reliable partner with whom to sign binding agreements. Any deal, if reached, would need guarantors. If security guarantees ever become part of the agreement between Pyongyang and the other parties, Russia is perfectly suited for this role as one of the few nations the DPRK trusts, thus making Moscow an indispensable part of the process.Six terrorists were killed and several injured after Pakistani forces responded to a cross-border attack from Afghanistan, the Inter-Services Public Relations said in a statement.

Four FC soldiers and one PAF soldier were also injured in the terrorist attacks.

Terrorists from across the border carried fire raids and physical attacks on Pakistans border posts and border fencing parties in Bajaur in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Qamar Din Qarez in Balochistan.

Taking advantage of ungoverned spaces and facilitation inside Afghanistan, terrorists are resorting to such attacks to prevent fencing and construction of border posts, the ISPR said.

Fencing of Pak-Afghan border and construction of border forts will continue irrespective of the challenges posed by inimical forces, and in order to consolidate the gains of successful kinetic operations against terrorism, the ISPR statement added.

In December last year, three FC troops were martyred in cross-border firing from terrorists on the Pak-Afghan border. The FC personnel were busy constructing a new border post when the attack took place in the Shunkrai area of Mohmand agency. At least five terrorists were killed by retaliatory fire from Pakistani forces and another 11 were injured, ISPR had said.Speaker National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq announced on Saturday that he is going to challenge Lahore High Courts decision in relation to the nomination papers.

In its verdict on Friday, Lahore High Court nullified the nomination papers, which would be submitted by candidates from General Elections 2018, ruling that they did not seek necessary information and declarations such as details on educational background, criminal record or if they are dual nationals.

The LHC also ordered ECP to again add the requirements of Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution in the nomination papers.

The decision was challenged earlier today by the ECP in the Supreme Court.

Sadiq, while speaking to media, said that all the parties in the parliament approved Election Reform Act.

He said that as the custodian of the assembly it is his responsibility that he should file a petition against the decision of the single bench and declare it void.

Sadiq said that due to the ECP forming new forms can delay the elections, therefore, he will appeal that the said date should not be changed so elections can he held on time.

He further said that similar conspiracies against the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz even took place in 2002 but they will not be successful.Saudi Arabia has warned against Qatar acquiring Russian missiles, threatening military action against its neighbor, French daily Le Monde reported.

The newspaper reported on Friday that Riyadh had written to French President Emmanuel Macron asking him to scupper Qatars deal with Russia to buy an S-400 air defense missile system, for the sake of regional stability.

There was no immediate official reaction to the report from Macrons office or the French Foreign Ministry.

Saudi Arabia, backed by other regional powers including Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, broke off relations with Qatar in June last year, accusing the Gulf state of supporting radical extremist groups and of being too close to Iran  Riyadhs arch-rival in the region.

They subsequently imposed economic sanctions on Qatar, which has consistently rejected the charges against it.

In an effort to ease its isolation, Qatar has sought new friends, including Russia.

In January, it announced that talks with Moscow on supplying the sophisticated S-400 system were at an advanced stage.

Le Monde said that in the letter sent to the French president, Saudi King Salman had expressed his deep concern with the discussions between Doha and Moscow and warned about the risk of escalation.

Saudi Arabia would be ready to take all necessary measures to eliminate this defense system, including military action, the newspaper wrote.

A year since the blockade of Qatar began, hostilities between the sides remain and in May Qatar ordered any goods from Saudi Arabia or the UAE to be removed from stores.

Bahrains Foreign Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmed al-Khalifa also said last week, in an interview with the Saudi-owned Asharq al-Awsat newspaper, that there was no glimmer of hope for an end to the crisis.Five outstanding Western Bay of Plenty surf lifesavers have been selected among a record number of participants in Surf Lifesaving New Zealands leadership programme.

Mt Maunganuis Julia Conway and Philip Pirie, Tyler Nitschke of Omanu, and Georgia Eldridge and Lucy Scown of Waihi Beach will join 11 other emerging leaders on the year-long BP Leaders for Life programme, designed to build their leadership skills and enhance the influences they can have on their local clubs and communities.

A particularly high number of quality candidates prompted Surf Lifesaving NZ to increase this years intake by one to 16.

Member Development Manager Belinda Slement says shes excited about the group of selected candidates.

It was a tough process to select only 15 from the dozens of applications we received, hence the increase to 16, but it shows how highly valued the BP Leaders for Life programme is. We had some outstanding applicants this year and were looking forward to rolling out our first workshop in July.

Tauranga-based Kiwifruit exporter Zespri are supporting the Bay of Plenty based participants, and say they are proud to be involved in such a fantastic programme for future leaders.

BP Leaders for Life was created in 2012, part of a national strategy to support a wide range of development activity for lifesavers.

Bay of Plenty will host the first workshop on July 7 and 8.

Four more will follow around the country wrapping up in May 2019.One Rotorua pound pup has made an inter-island journey of more than 1000km to become part of his forever family.

Mac, a 12-month-old Border Collie, was found roaming in Rotorua in April and after spending weeks at the pound with no owner coming to claim him or any potential adoptees the pound was running out of options.

His sad story shared through social media sparked a series of events that led him to his forever family with a few kind gestures from strangers all over New Zealand along the way.

Macs new owner, Karena Hamilton of Pleasant Point near Timaru, says she first saw Mac on a social media page.

I found out about Mac on a Facebook group NZ Border Collies that I joined recently. We were looking for another dog, perhaps a puppy, but had heard about rehoming Border Collies.

What made me want him specifically was the fact he was going to be put down. We had the space and the genuine interest in giving him a home as soon as we saw the photo of him at the pound.

Behind the scenes another kind person was also working to ensure Mac lived to see another week and hopefully find a home.

Kathleen Lindesay from Karaka, being a rescue Border Collie owner herself, is the person who sent Macs picture to NZ Border Collies so they could share his story on Facebook.

She contacted Rotorua pound to ask for an extension and was able to get some more time to find Mac a family.

I had no idea when I rang the pound how I was going to rescue this poor sad looking wee dog but I knew one thing for sure, he wasn't going to be put to sleep if I had anything to do with it!, says Kathleen.

I have a rescue border collie called Koda and he is my best friend.

Sadly the first potential owner had a change of heart but generously offered to pay for Macs desexing and registration out of his own pocket.

Kathleen remembers seeing Karenas name on the social media posts and tried her luck to see if she was still interested in adopting Mac.

She was.

All it was going to take now was transporting Mac across the country to his new home in Pleasant Point.

And after a phone call from Kathleen, Chris from Dogtainers, added another kind gesture to the story and offered to fly Mac to the Timaru airport at cost.

Kathleen stepped in to raise the funds for Macs flight via a Givealittle page which raised over $800 from just 28 donors.

Mac has been in his home for about two weeks and Karena says she is starting to see positive changes in him.

Ive noticed how much he has calmed down. Hes a friendly dog, his tail was wagging when we saw his crate being lifted of the plane at Timaru airport.

Weve given him some new experiences like walking on the beach, rides in the car, playing fetch and weve introduced him to other pets in the family.

Both women give their praise to the staff member at the pound who worked with them throughout Macs adoption.

I cant thank the staff member at the pound enough. I will never forget her saying "how long do you need... a week? says Kathleen.

I could tell she really cared about this wee dog. Their job must be so disheartening at times as they see the worst of humanity and how people treat animals so I hope this one success story will show her there are a lot of us out there who do love our dogs and do care.

Id love to thank all the people who donated to Macs cause. Without them and the generosity of Chris and his wife we wouldnt have been able to get him to his new family, she says.

Macs story has already been shared with many people across the country and is sparking interest in those who meet him.

Macs adoption and rehoming has caused a big interest from other people, especially those with Border Collies, says Karena.

I have also noticed it with people who meet Mac and learn his story. So Ive created a Facebook page for him called Mac, Life Starts Now.

I would tell others looking to adopt a rescue dog to make sure they explore the options first and get a pet who fits in with your family.

You are giving a loving home to a dog that may not have another opportunity to have that.

To see dogs currently up for adoption at Rotorua pound keep an eye on www.rotorualakescouncil.nz/homelesshounds

To keep up to date with Macs story visit www.facebook.nz/macthebordercollieBay of Plenty

You will be operating the Roller and also required to help out the team hands on. You will be working around Tauranga, for...



View or Apply on GoodWork.co.nzEight years ago, Andrew Cuomo stood on the steps of the Tweed Courthouse in Manhattan - named for the infamous Boss Tweed of Tammany Hall - and vowed to end corruption in Albany if voters elected him governor.

Eight years later, Gov. Andrew Cuomo is running for a third term, and Albany is swampier than ever. The governor has a short window to redeem himself on ethics before he faces the voters in November.

In the waning days of the Legislature's session, which ends June 20, he can use his considerable powers of persuasion to strike a deal with legislators on meaningful ethics legislation. Does he have the will to do it?

All it really takes is will. For years, Cuomo threw up his hands over the breakaway Independent Democratic Conference in the state Senate, whose alliance with Republicans kept the GOP minority in power. Turns out, a meeting with leaders over coffee and cookies - and a challenge from Cuomo's left by Cynthia Nixon - was all it took for Cuomo to orchestrate a reunion.

Cuomo talks a good game on ethics, proposing bills each legislative session that never go anywhere. Sure, the governor has advanced some incremental reforms, among them better disclosure of legislators' outside income, and a constitutional amendment that voters passed last year to strip pensions from officials convicted of felony corruption. But the Joint Commission on Public Ethics he helped create is a watchdog that doesn't bark. The governor's handpicked Moreland Commission was supposed to go after public corruption, but he meddled with it and disbanded it within months.

Nothing Cuomo or the Legislature has done so far has made a dent in Albany corruption.

The former leaders of the Assembly and Senate stand convicted of corruption, along with dozens of their colleagues. Cuomo's right-hand man, Joe Percoco, was convicted of corruption in February and awaits sentencing. Another trial involving alleged bid-rigging and "pay to play" contracts in Cuomo's Buffalo Billion economic development program begins this month.

Fighting corruption isn't rocket science. The governor and the Legislature know what to do.

Close the "LLC loophole" that allows contributors to pour an unlimited amount of money into political campaigns. Ban "pay to play" by curtailing campaign contributions from state vendors. Create a "database of deals" to disclose the recipient of every taxpayer subsidy for economic development. Give the state Comptroller authority to vet SUNY contracts over $1 million and ban nonprofit affiliates from contracting on behalf of the state, the practice at the center of the recent corruption trials. (The bill, carried by Sen. John DeFrancisco, passed the Senate and awaits action by the Assembly.)

Neither Cuomo nor legislative leaders hold out much hope for anything of consequence to get done in the 11 days left in the legislative session, despite a long list of unfinished business. Our leaders should aim higher, and voters should punish them in November if they don't.

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If you have questions about the Opinions & Editorials section, contact Marie Morelli, editorial/opinion leader, atWASHINGTON (AP) -- President Donald Trump's lawyers composed a secret 20-page letter to special counsel Robert Mueller to assert that he cannot be forced to testify while arguing that he could not have committed obstruction because he has absolute authority over all federal investigations.

The existence of the letter, which was first reported and posted by The New York Times on Saturday, was a bold assertion of presidential power and another front on which Trump's lawyers have argued that the president can't be subpoenaed in the special counsel's ongoing investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

The letter is dated January 29 and addressed to Mueller from John Dowd, one of Trump's lawyers at the time who has since resigned from the legal team. In the letter, the Trump's lawyers argue that a charge of illegal obstruction is moot because the Constitution empowers the president to, "if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon."

Trump weighed in on Saturday on Twitter, asking "Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media?" He added: "When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country."

Mueller has requested an interview with the president to determine whether he had criminal intent to obstruct the investigation into his associates' possible links to Russia's election interference. Trump had previously signaled that he would be willing to sit for an interview, but his legal team, including head lawyer Rudy Giuliani, have privately and publicly expressed concern that the president could risk charges of perjury.

If Trump does not consent to an interview, Mueller will have to decide whether to forge forward with a historic grand jury subpoena. His team raised the possibility in March of subpoenaing the president but it is not clear if it is still under active consideration. Giuliani has told The Associated Press that the president's legal team believes the special counsel does not have the authority to do so.

A court battle is likely if Trump's team argues that the president can't be forced to answer questions or be charged with obstruction of justice. President Bill Clinton was charged with obstruction in 1998 by the House of Representatives as part of his impeachment trial. And one of the articles of impeachment prepared against Richard Nixon in 1974 was for obstruction.

Topics of Mueller's obstruction investigation include the firings of both Comey and former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, as well Trump's reaction to Attorney General Jeff Sessions' recusal from the Russia investigation.

In addition to the legal battles, Trump's team and allies have waged a public relations campaign against Mueller to discredit the investigation and soften the impact of the special counsel's potential findings. Giuliani said last week that the special counsel probe may be an "entirely illegitimate investigation" and need to be curtailed because, in his estimation, it was based on inappropriately obtained information from an informant and former FBI director James Comey's memos.

In reality, the FBI began a counterintelligence investigation in July 2016 to determine if Trump campaign associates were coordinating with Russia to tip the election. The investigation was opened after the hacking of Democratic emails that intelligence officials later formally attributed to Russia.

Giuliani has said a decision will not be made about a possible presidential interview with the special counsel until after Trump's summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore.Students of Rome Free Academy celebrated at their senior ball Saturday, June 2, 2018. The event was held at Vernon Downs.

Our gallery of photos can be found above.

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See all photo galleries from proms, senior balls, and other formals around Central New York.Unequal treatment of male and female rowers has led the Cambridge University Womens Boat Club to pull out of an international regatta in Croatia.

The womens team were told that they would stay in a hostel for the Sveti Duje regatta in May and would have to pay for their own transport, despite their male counterparts enjoying a five-star resort complete with private beach.

In a statement on the events Facebook page, last years CUWBC president, Ashton Brown, criticised the inequality of accommodation and said she was much more interested in non-sexist events so decided not to attend.

The current president, Daphne Martschenko, responded to those who have emphasised the need for women to contribute to making the event more inclusive, asking how long do you expect us to wait?

Martschenko said she and her team-mates have spent two years accepting a lower standard in the hopes that the regatta would get increased attendance with our presence.

Likewise, Brown rejected the idea that the onus is on women to support the event until the sexism goes away and argued that by accepting things as they are, I would be implicitly be saying that was ok.

Some have blamed the event itself, although the regatta organisers pointed to the lack of space available to house all teams in equal accommodation. Funding, however, comes largely from sponsors; Brown suggested that if a sponsor is only willing to finance one gender, that should be a sign the sponsor isnt worth having.

The scandal comes three years after the womens Boat Race began to televised and held alongside the mens event, and it will raise questions about the progress still needed to eradicate the gender imbalance in rowing.Recap: The last few years have seen several explosive products, but the most famous (barring the Note 7) has probably been hoverboards. So many of the two-wheeled electric scooters were going up in flames in 2015 that they were banned by major airlines. Amazon, a big seller of the boards, also banned many of the devices in December of that year, but it was too late to stop one sparking a fire that burned down a familys $1 million home. Now, a judge has ruled that the retail site isnt responsible for the incident.

Brian and Megan Fox bought the $274.79 FITURBO F1 hoverboard in November 2015 as a Christmas present for their 14-year-old son. On January 9, 2016, the hoverboard exploded while the boy and their daughter were home. The pair were forced to escape through windows with the help of their father. All three suffered injuries, including lacerations that required stitches, fractured bones, and nerve damage. The family's 4000-square-foot home was destroyed.

It was never clear who manufactured the hoverboard, but the Foxs launched a $30 million lawsuit against Amazon. They claimed the company never warned them that it could explode, even though Amazon knew about the fire risks. But a Tennessee judge disagreed.

As noted by CNBC, one Amazon exec deposed in the case admitted to removing a hoverboard from his own home after hearing about their potential issues. Amazon also held onto hoverboard sellers cash for 90 days instead of 30 as it was getting ready for a deluge of returns, "There's a potential to run off with this money," an employee wrote, in an internal email.

The couple received an email on December 12, 2015, sent out by Amazon to hoverboard buyers that referenced the "recent news reports of safety issues" and offered safety tips. While there was an option to return them for a refund, there was no mention of the words fire or explosion.

Judge William Campbell dismissed the case on Wednesday, ruling that Amazon was simply a platform used to sell the product, and not legally responsible for the fire. "Amazon's role in the transaction was to provide a mechanism to facilitate the interchange between the entity seeking to sell the product and the individual who sought to buy it," he wrote

"We're disappointed in the decision and weighing our options with our clients and should make a decision in the next week or two," Steven Anderson, the Foxs lawyer, told CNBC.

An Amazon spokesperson gave the following statement. As a customer obsessed company, we closely monitored potential risks with hoverboards since they were first offered for sale, regardless of whether sold directly by Amazon or by sellers on our stores. As the Consumer Product Safety Commission noted at the time, when we learned of safety concerns about this toy, we were the first retailer to proactively stop sales, issue an alert, and refund customers. We continue to invest in our teams and technologies so we can improve our early detection systems and protect customers.The accusation is in connection with the Pandora Papers revelations about the corrupt acts of President Sebastian Pinera. | Read MoreTwo multimillion-dollar wage theft group actions will be filed in the Federal Court on Monday on behalf of hundreds of Australian door-to-door and direct sales workers.

The young workers were allegedly paid well below the legal minimum wage for sales and charity fundraising for international direct marketing companies AIDA and Credico.

Karina Smith who is part of the class action.

Affected workers sold products door to door and in shopping malls for large corporates, including Telstra, Optus and Foxtel, as well as raised funds for major charities.

Charities included Clown Doctors, World Wildlife Fund Australia, Prince of Wales Hospital, Amnesty International and the Cancer Council NSW."There should be research and evidence and resourcing given to what needs to be done to support students." Australia benefits hugely from international education. The sector last year poured $28 billion into the economy and remains the nation's third largest export. Increasingly, universities are reliant on students from overseas, with the cohort providing more funding to the sector than their domestic counterparts. The latest data has the number of international students in Australia at more than 530,000, about one-third of them Chinese. International students face particular stresses. Credit:Andrew Plant Mental illness is most prevalent among Australians aged 18 to 24. And one study from the University of Technology Sydney published in the Australian Journal of Psychology in 2015 noted Chinese students experienced significantly higher levels of anxiety and stress than their Australian counterparts. Monash University sociologist Helen Forbes-Mewett has extensively researched the experiences of international students in Australia. The move could be more challenging than expected, she noted.

"Theres always risks when you take on such a big endeavour," she said. "When you throw mental health issues into the mix, those risks escalate." One of her studies found some parents actually send their mentally unwell children overseas in the hope the health system in their host country was superior to that of home. "The parents may think they will get better while they are away from home and they will succeed and come back and everything will be alright, but of course being away compounds the issues," Professor Forbes-Mewett said. "On top of that, the students are [then] often under enormous pressure to succeed.

"When it comes to exam times or getting near the end of their degree or something, this is often when it can all fall apart for students if theyve been trying to hold it together for a long time and not seek supports that are there." The federal government this year clarified the Higher Education Standards Framework - guidelines universities must meet to maintain their registration. The standards dictate there must be avenues and contacts for support for students and that the services offered reflect the needs of different cohorts. A spokesman for the body charged with monitoring the standards, the Tertiary Quality and Standards Agency, warned "many" universities would be required to submit their applications for registration renewal in the next financial year. "During this process, universities will be required to submit evidence relating to standards in the Higher Education Standards Framework to TEQSA, including standards on student wellbeing and safety," he said. " ... where there is any doubt about whether particular support services are available, such as support services for mental health and wellbeing, we will move to ensure that these are made available."

Locally, the most recent ANU Dean of Students' report showed international students disproportionately presented with severe problems related to academic progress. Male international students were, however, strongly underrepresented in presentations for mental health issues. The report noted that some international students were studying courses chosen by their parents, rather than interest, and may face financial pressures. An ANU spokesman urged caution on the university's own data, noting up to 28 per cent of international students sought support from the university - a figure proportionate to the institution's enrolments. He added the ANU had implemented a range of measures aimed at reaching international students. "It is reasonable that students who do seek support for academic progress will also be suffering some levels of anxiety, and students suffering mental illness will also experience difficulty with academic progress," the spokesman said. "However, most international students with poor academic progress issues do not present with mental illness."

A University of Canberra spokeswoman said international students were "less than a quarter" of presentations to the services provided by the institutions Medical and Counselling Centre. The cohort makes up 18 per cent of total enrolments. Education Minister Simon Birmingham. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham this week told the Sunday Canberra Times his department and the Council for International Education would "[support] a number of initiatives to focus on improving mental health and appropriate data collection". Data was "king and queen" in identifying and responding to issues, Orygen senior policy analyst Vivenne Brown agreed. A key finding from the youth mental health organisation's 2017 report into university students' mental health was that it was difficult to paint a picture of how widespread the issues were because of the lack of comparable data. "You could understand it uni by uni or counselling service by counselling service, but thats only the students who are presenting to the service and not necessarily indicative of the extent of mental health issues on the campus," Ms Brown said.

Many students, researchers and academics the Sunday Canberra Times interviewed noted the reluctance of many international students in seeking help. Some students incorrectly feared deportation should their mental health deteriorate because of the health requirements attached to student visas. Others were unaware of their coverage under private health insurance, or worried personal information would be fed to their institutions or families. Indeed, international students were likely to leave help-seeking until they're "really, really unwell", according to Ms Brown. She added international students may come from a culture where mental illness is stigmatised or not even recognised, making seeking help near impossible. In China symptoms of mental illness such as headaches, insomnia or gastrointestinal issues may be interpreted as physiological, rather than psychological, according to the University of Technology Sydney. ANU Postgraduate and Research Students Association international student officer Harish Chakravarthy, originally from India, said some of his countrymen were unsure how to respond to homesickness, isolation, stress related to their studies or issues in finding a home.

I think [mental illness is] quite common but nobody really opens up," he said. "Its a barrier for international students to come to a different country and seek help from someone and let out what they feel. Seeking these services is a big barrier because its culturally different." Professor Forbes-Mewett, from Monash University, said it was impossible to lay responsibility with any one agency, department or university, arguing the mental health of international students was "everyone's problem". She added it was difficult to know what to provide if students had never experienced mental health support. ANU Postgraduate and Research Students Association president Alyssa Shaw has called on universities to gather more data. Credit:Fairfax Media Regardless, everyone agreed more could be done. Churchill Fellow and Melbourne-based psychiatry registrar Benjamin Veness's report The Wicked Problem of University Student Mental Health recommended universities run health screening programs matched with appropriate services to respond. This should include outreach initiatives targeted at cohorts including international students, he said.

The University of Technology Sydney report on Chinese students' mental health called on universities to provide culturally specific support services and reinforce them "constantly". Further, Thinktank China Matters has called on the federal government to provide universities with financial incentives to lessen the isolation of international students, and state and federal governments to celebrate a "National International Student Weekend" to encourage Australian families to welcome international students into their homes. Mr Kang, this week studying hard for exams at ANU, said he wasn't sure of the solution. "The difficulty faced by international students shouldn't include a search for blame, but it's just a shame that it's also exacerbated by the stereotype created of international students - that we aren't social and we aren't keen on being engaged with any local Australians," he said. "Coming to this country has been an unintended stage of my life, but I am very grateful for the experience."A man has died in hospital two days after he was allegedly attacked with a hammer on Friday during a random carjacking on the state's Far South Coast.

About 3.30pm on Friday, Murray Deakin, 20, allegedly stabbed his grandparents in their Bega home, before fleeing in their car.

The attack sparked a large police operation that involved PolAir, negotiators and specialist tactical police.

He abandoned his grandparents' car, and allegedly carjacked a stranger's vehicle in a neighbouring town.NSW energy distributors have overcharged consumers more than $1 billion in the past three years, according to advice provided by the energy regulator to the Labor opposition, which blames higher charges on the governments electricity privatisation.

But the companies  including Endeavour Energy which runs the distribution network for western Sydney and the Illawarra, and Ausgrid  will return overpayments to consumers in coming years.

Network prices account for almost half the cost of residential power bills. Increases in network prices have been the major cause of higher bills over the past decade.

Energy Minister Don Harwin says gold-plating under Labor drove up power bills. Credit:Peter Braig

A letter from the Australian Energy Regulator to Labors energy spokesman, Adam Searle, released on Sunday, said Endeavour Energy had recovered $337 million more in revenue than was permitted by the AERs 2015 pricing decision, while Ausgrid had recovered $806 million more.Melbourne is set to become home to Australias largest contemporary art gallery as part of a major transformation of the Southbank arts precinct.

Premier Daniel Andrews, who will announce the gallery on Sunday morning, described the project as a once-in-a-generation transformation of the city's arts precinct that would deliver new "public space, better theatres and thousands of local jobs and attract millions of visitors''.

Artist rendition's of the proposed NGV Contemporary and 'transformation' of the Southbank arts precinct.

Its a game-changer for our city that will cement Melbourne as the cultural capital of Australia, the premier said.Jean McLean tangles with police at a demonstration in 1971.

It started at a pottery class. It was 1965, during the Vietnam War. Women in a Beaumaris art class voiced fears their teenage sons would be conscripted and Jean McLean challenged them to do something about it.

Six years later, the young mother had been arrested multiple times and even jailed for her anti-war beliefs.

She'd been filmed linking arms with politicians and journalists, leading 100,000 people along Melbourne's Bourke Street in what remains one of Australia's largest-ever protest marches.Dont be fooled by last week's China ZhejiangAustralia Trade and Investment Symposium in Sydney. For all the positive spin put on the event, Canberra is increasingly wary of the influence Beijing reaps from its investments.

But Chinas influence doesnt flow solely from this. It uses a combination of diplomatic and political pressure, manipulation of its diaspora, illicit financing of political parties, and propaganda. According to some, Beijing spends up to US$10 billion ($13 billion) a year on its overseas operations. If this sounds familiar, it is because these are tactics taken straight from the KGB playbook Russia has followed for well over a decade.

Chinese President Xi Jinping. Credit:AP

Russias aim has been to portray itself as a great power on the world stage. Its tactics are often crude and short-term. Chinas, by contrast, are slow-burning and systemic. Beijings ultimate ambition is to create a Sino-centric regional order, based around tianxia  an imperial concept that puts China at the centre of nations. This strategy is in full force in Australia.

The effects are striking. Former Labor foreign affairs minister and one-time NSW premier Bob Carr is facing demands that he be expelled from the party because of his deep links to China; he directs a think tank founded with a donation from a Chinese billionaire with close Communist Party links and is alleged to have enlisted Labor senator Kristina Keneally to use estimate hearings to ask pro-China questions. Last December, Sam Dastyari resigned from the party over his dealings with a Chinese billionaire.Seoul: Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has expressed interest in travelling to North Korea to meet Kim Jong-un, North Korean media reported on Sunday, adding another layer of possible intrigue onto the planning for next week's summit between US President Donald Trump and the North Korean leader.

The report by the state-run KCNA news agency gave no details on the timing for a possible trip by Assad, who has rarely left Syria since the country's civil war erupted more than seven years ago. There also was no immediate comment from Syrian officials.

But even the suggestion of Assad's outreach to North Korea is certain to ripple through White House efforts to define an agenda for the planned June 12 summit in Singapore between Trump and Kim. It also reflects Kim's push to shed his reclusive image and seek wider contacts, including apparent efforts underway to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"The optics are horrendous given that Kim Jong-un is trying to posture as a good guy," said Sue Mi Terry, the Korea chair at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. "Hosting Assad, one of the worst butchers on the planet, as your first foreign leader visit is not a good PR move."The Auto Channel News Digest, Week of May 28-June 3, 2018: US Auto Sales Keep on Truckin'; Tesla 3 OK Now; Imported Car Tariffs?; FCA Electrifies; Waymo Chrysler's Biggest "Up"; CAFE Kaput; Softbank's Initial Investment To Make GM  (ICHIBAN); Challenger SRT Demon Finis; Kia, GMC Recalls; Danica Crashes In Final Race

AUTO CENTRAL, CHICAGO - June 3, 2018; Every Sunday Larry Nutson, Senior Editor and Chicago Car Guy along with fellow senior editors Steve Purdy and Thom Cannell from The Auto Channel Michigan Bureau, give you The Auto Channel's "take" on this past week's automotive news, in easy to "catch up" with news nuggets. For More search the past 25 year's millions of (Indexed By Google) pages of automotive news, automotive stories, articles, reviews, archived news residing in The Auto Channel Automotive News Library.

TV viewers, you can now enjoy The Auto Channel TV Network On Amazon TV, Google TV, HULU, ROKU and "Free and Clear" on WHDT in Boston and South Florida as well as local cable systems.

Nutson's Auto Channel News Highlights May 28-June 3, 2018

* Automotive News says U.S. new-vehicle sales jumped 4.7 percent in May behind robust light-truck demand. The SAAR for May totaled 16.91 million. Strong Jeep sales at FCA, smaller gains at Ford, Honda, Hyundai-Kia and the VW brand helped lead the way. GM no longer reports monthly sales but analysts say they were up. Sales this year are ahead of forecasts, at least so far. Researcher Kelley Blue Book said average new vehicle transaction prices hit $35,635 in May, up 3.4 percent from a year ago, driven by strong demand for trucks and SUVs.

* Following up on our report last week, Consumer Reports now recommends the Tesla Model 3, after their testers found a recent over-the-air update improved the car's braking distance by nearly 20 feet. The software update came a week after Consumer Reports published test results that showed stopping distances for the Model 3 that were significantly longer than any other contemporary car. That braking performance, along with issues with the Model 3's controls and ride comfort, initially prevented the car from getting a CR Recommendation. Last week, after CR's road test was published, Tesla CEO Elon Musk vowed that the automaker would get a fix out within days. The Model 3 still has problems, said CR, but is good enough to be recommended.

* In another controversial action by President Trump, now he wants to impose 25-percent tariffs on imported steel and 10-percent tariffs on imported aluminum coming from the EU, Mexico and Canada. A lot of this is about NAFTA renegotiations, but we can expect retaliatory tariffs that will result in Americans paying more for goods they want.

* In other presidential news, a German business magazine reports President Trump told French President Emmanuel Macron he wants to see no more Mercedes-Benz automobiles driving down New Yorks Fifth Avenue. Mr. Trump, just a week earlier, asked Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross to determine whether automotive imports threaten the national security. If that answer is yes, then the president does not need Congress to impose automobile tariffs.

* Sergio Marchionne and his team laid out a five-year product plan for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles at its Capital Markets Day 2018-2022 Business Plan conference for financial analysts and institutional investors in Milan on Friday. He promised that FCA will embrace electrification, as have most of his competitors already, saying it is the only way the company can meet ever-stricter emissions standards in most world markets, particularly China. FCA will use a modular system with five different motors fitted in a variety of ways making 12 different electrified drivetrains beginning in 2021. Core brands will be Jeep, Ram, Alfa, Maserati and Fiat. All passenger car diesel engines will be phased out by 2021. FCA will offer level 2+ and Level 3 autonomous vehicles by 2021. Chrysler and Dodge brands will continue in the U.S. but will not be in the global market.

* Good news for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles this week came in the form of an order from Googles Waymo driverless ride-hailing fleet for 62,000 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans to allow Waymo to take the first steps in a national expansion of their service. The two companies will also begin discussions that may lead to FCA using Waymo technology in a future vehicle on sale to the public. FCA shares were up 4.6% on the news. SEE ALSO: Silicon Valley On Its Way To Disrupt The Auto Industry and The Historic Need For Traditional Car Companies

* A new study published in Risk Analysis examined the question "How safe is safe enough for self-driving vehicles (SDVs)?" The results showed that the public will not accept this new technology unless it is shown to be safer, approximately four to five times as safe as human-driven vehicles (HDVs). Despite the conveniences SDVs would bring to individuals, such as the ability to watch a movie, read a book, sleep or surf the internet, the public will be much less likely to accept, or even tolerate, SDVs if they have the same risk level as human driving.

* The U.S. Department of Transportation has come up with several proposals to mitigate the Obama-era fuel economy standards known as CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) currently set and 54.5 mpg by 2025. The Trump administration has considered those standards too strict. EPA administrator Scott Pruitt has prepared three proposals for the president to choose from: leaving CAFE at 54.5 (equating to real-world 36 mpg), an option equating to a real-world average of 30 mpg or another option of even lower numbers. The president will choose.

* A Tokyo-based technology investment company called SoftBank Vision Fund just bought a 19.6% stake in General Motors' autonomous vehicle business called GM Cruise for $2.25 billion. GM president, Dan Ammann, told investors this week that the deal gives GM a connection to other SoftBank holdings and will enhance the companys ability to commercialize autonomous vehicles and ride hailing services.SEE ALSO: Silicon Valley On Its Way To Disrupt The Auto Industry and The Historic Need For Traditional Car Companies

* The last 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon rolled off the line this week at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' Brampton Assembly Plant in Ontario. The 840-horsepower beast was part of a limited run. The company intended to cap production at 3,300 Demons. The final 2018 Demon, which is heading to an upfit center for a Viper Red paint job and other Demon-appropriate final touches, will be auctioned as a pair with the last 2017 Dodge Viper June 20-23 at the Barrett-Jackson Northeast Auction in Uncasville, Conn., to raise funds for United Way, the company said in a news release.

* Kia is recalling 106,428 model year 2015-2018 Sedona minivans because their sliding doors may not automatically reverse if they close on a human limb.

* General Motors is recalling 88,129 model year 2018 GMC Terrain sport-utility vehicles because their air bags may not deploy in a crash.

* Amidst the trifecta of motorsports over the Memorial Day weekend, Danica Patrick's racing career came to a close. With a Turn 2 spin at about 220 mph in lap 67 of the Indy 500 "Danicamania" ended 13 years after its start. The 36-year old racer will now focus on the other non-racing endeavors in her life.MAG Lifestyle Development (MAG LD), the development arm of MAG Group, has announced plans to launch two new projects in Jumeirah Village Circle - MAG 612 and MAG 614 - at an investment of Dh300 million ($82 million).



MAG 614 is a 20-floor residential tower comprising 223 units including 80 studio units, 101 one- and 42 two-bedroom apartments, in addition to 261 parking spaces, said a statement from the developer.



The 280,012-sq-ft project also features a swimming pool and health club, and will be brought to life in partnership with Engineer Adnan Saffarini, one of the UAEs leading architectural and engineering consultancy companies, which is responsible for delivering real added value through its comprehensive property solutions, it stated.

MAG 612 is another 20-floor residential tower and will feature 144 units with 100 one- and 44 two-bedroom apartments, in addition to 182 parking spaces for maximum convenience.

Al Gurg Consultants is providing its services for the 251,475-sq-ft project which also includes a swimming pool and health club.

Both these developments will represent a significant addition to MAG LDs existing portfolio and will see the company entering this strategic area of Dubai for the first time, the statement added.



CEO Talal Moafaq Al Gaddah said: "At MAG LD, we are set on maximising the potential of strategic locations across Dubai for the benefit of our customers, offering them higher returns on investment, excellent connectivity, a convenient and comfortable lifestyle, and the potential for property price growth."



"Jumeirah Village Circle ticks all of these boxes as it is an established, landscaped community in the heart of Dubai with direct access to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road Hessa Street and Al Khail Road," noted Al Gaddah.



"Based on our in-depth, customer-centric research, we know that Jumeirah Village Circle is a community to watch and we are confident that we will be adding significant value to the area with MAG 614 and MAG 612. These projects will be the latest milestones in our ongoing mission to provide customers with investment and home buying opportunities that exceed their expectations," he added.-TradeArabia News ServicePete Davidson and Ariana Grande. Photo: Instagram/Pete Davidson

As the old saying goes, if you want to date a famous person, just get a job at SNL. Such a romance is happening at the moment for repertory player Pete Davidson, when it became public last month that he and his long-term girlfriend Cazzie David  daughter of Larry  broke up so he could seemingly begin dating Ariana Grande instead. He and Grande have since been acting generally cute on social media thanks to some well-timed Harry Potter dates and other youthful shenanigans, with David choosing to go on a social media blackout in the interim. But shes now back, and has a simple Instagram message for everyone questioning her sanity: Been in Africa, whatd I miss?

Well tell her what she missed: Davidson already got two tattoos dedicated to his new girlfriend. Dangerous Woman bunny ears, and Grandes initials.

Millenial love is nuts.Liberty House Group, an international industrial and metals business with global hubs in Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong, said engineering unit has won the bid to secure the last remaining French manufacturer of aluminium wheels, AR Industries (ARI).



British group Liberty Engineering is part of the GFG alliance, an international grouping of businesses, founded by the British Gupta family, which was declared winner of the bid following todays (June 3) ruling by the court of administration in Orleans, in the French region of Centre-Val de Loire.



As per the ruling, Liberty Engineering, which is owned by industrialist Sanjeev Gupta, can now put in place a comprehensive three-year recovery plan for the ARI site at Chateauroux including investments in advanced manufacturing equipment, improvements in safety and quality standards and growing its customer base.



The acquisition marks a further expansion of GFGs presence in the global automotive sector and is the latest step in the groups strategy to establish a major industrial presence in France, said the company in a statement.



It follows the recent announcement that the UK group is also buying Aluminium Dunkerque, Europes largest aluminium smelter from Rio Tinto.



The Dunkerque installation is already a major supplier of raw material to ARI. The inclusion of both upstream and downstream operations in GFGs French portfolio are part of the drive to establish France as a major operating hub for the group in Continental Europe.



The plan for the ARI plant, which will save around 350 jobs and hundreds more in the supply chain and regional economy, has been made possible by commitments, secured by GFG, from major French car manufacturers, the statement said.



This support will give the group the necessary time to implement its improvement plans for the business. The plant has capacity to make two million alloy wheels a year, it added.



On the court ruling, Gupta, also the GFG executive chairman, said: "This is a very positive result not just for our business but first and foremost for the workforce at ARI. We have been very clear that France is one of the worlds great industrial economies and a key market for us. ARI is a perfect fit for our business and our investment strategy for France."



"We want to create the kind of sustainable, vertically integrated structure in France that we have successfully established in other markets  a structure based on adding value and safeguarding skilled jobs," he added.



Over recent years, GFG has established a strong track record of industrial turnarounds particularly in the automotive sector. Around one quarter of its 12,000-strong global workforce are engaged in automotive manufacturing and the firm is already a Tier 1 supplier to top vehicle makers including Nissan, Ford and JLR.



Liberty Industries Group CEO Douglas Dawson said: "This is a great outcome and a very important acquisition for Liberty. It represents a key step in our growing and continuing plans to be a vertically integrated global, relevant and strategic Tier 1 supplier to the engineering and auto sectors."



Libertys head of business development in France and Europe, Philippe Baudon, said: "We are delighted with the courts decision. Their ruling will allow us to retain over 90 per cent of the jobs at the site and safeguard the plants role in the French automotive supply chain."



"It also means the valued expertise and know-how, developed by ARIs workers can be retained and fostered  we want to see the plant taking its rightful place as a centre of excellence not only for the GFG Alliance but for the automotive sector in general" he added.-TradeArabia News Service6-Year-Old Attacked By Family DogFamily Friend Gives a Sad Update

A 6-year-old boy has died as a result of an attack by the family dog.

Family friend Rick Vaughan said that the boy died after the pit bull attacked him on May 24. Vaughan told Altoona Mirror that the boys father was cutting grass at the time, but rushed inside after the mother screamed. He then saw the dog on the boy.

It was already too late, Vaughan said, referring to the fathers efforts to free his boy from the dog, via the Mirror.

The dog that mauled the boy is now dead, although reports did not specify when or how it died. The family also gave their other dog to police after the tragedy.

His mother is taking it very, very hard, the 32-year-old Vaughan said, via the Mirror. He passed away in her arms.

The Blair County Coroner said the boy died of blunt-force trauma. The police are still investigating, according to WTAJ. Counselors were called in to assist students and staff at Baker Elementary School, the school the boy attended.

Watch Next:

Man Rescues Toddler From Underneath a Train Carriage

Only two seconds passed between the girl going under and teh man pulling her to safety.Chinese Authorities Silence Dissidents Ahead of Tiananmen Square Anniversary

Days before the 29th anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, Chinese authorities again took measures to make dissidents disappear from the public eye.

Bao Tong, former secretary of the deceased reformist Party leader Zhao Ziyang, said that he had been visited by officials from the local state security bureau in Beijing, in an interview with Radio Free Asia (RFA) on May 31. Zhao was politically purged after the massacre due to his sympathies with the students. He was placed under house arrest until his death in 2005.

Bao said that officials told him not to accept any interviews on the eve of the June 4 anniversary; otherwise, he would be asked to go on a trip out of town.

Chinese authorities frequently forcibly take dissidents on trips during sensitive periods, such as June 4 or major Communist Party political meetings, so that dissidents cannot use the occasions to voice grievances or criticisms of the Party.

Bao also told RFA that officials warned him about people calling himan indication that his phone was likely tapped. Last year, Bao was placed under house arrest before June 4. The year prior, he was taken on a trip to Kunming, a city in Yunnan in the far southwestern reaches of China.

Any mention of the Tiananmen Square massacrewhen the Chinese military was ordered to slaughter hundreds or, by some estimates, thousands, of Chinese student protesters calling for democratic reformsis still taboo in China. The Chinese regime continues to deny having killed protesters, and it deploys its censorship apparatus to wipe out any mentions of the event.

A secret British diplomatic cable released late last year revealed that the death toll was at least 10,000.

Bao is not the only target the Chinese regime has tried to silence ahead of the June 4 anniversary. Zhang Xianling, a co-founder of Tiananmen Mothers, a group of family members of victims killed at Tiananmen, said local state security bureau officials showed up at her home in Beijing on May 28.

This year, [security officials] came later than usual. They came on the 28th. In previous years, they showed up on the 21st, 22nd, 24th, or 25th, Zhang said to RFA, adding that a police officer in his police car was watching her from downstairs. Wherever she went, she would be followed by two other security agents, she said.

Xu Yonghai, a Christian activist in Beijing, said he had been put under house arrest since May 28, in an interview with Chinese-language radio broadcaster Sound of Hope. Xu recalled seeing the army tanks rolling into Tiananmen Square 29 years ago, and he said he tended to students who were wounded amid the regimes crackdown.

Xu explained that he was under watch by security agents, who were split between two shifts, with three agents on every shift. He added that, based on past experience, they would not leave until the 7th or 8th of June.President Donald Trump before boarding Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington on May 29, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Confidential Letters From Trumps Attorneys to Mueller Leaked to NY Times

Two confidential letters from President Donald Trumps legal team to special counsel Robert Mueller were leaked to The New York Times. The newspaper published both letters in full on Saturday.

In the letters dated June 23, 2017, and Jan. 29, 2018, Trumps legal team presents a barrage of arguments and precedents for why Trump does not have to agree to an interview with Mueller. The extensive rationale, presented over the course of more than 20 pages in the most recent letter, amounts to a legal knockout punch to Muellers obstruction and collusion investigations.

Trump mentioned the leak in a Twitter message on Saturday while blasting the investigation.

There was no collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive witch hunt hoax ever end? Trump wrote in a tweet. So bad for our country. Is the special counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the fake news media? Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?

As only one of two people left who could become President, why wouldnt the FBI or Department of Justice have told me that they were secretly investigating Paul Manafort (on charges that were 10 years old and had been previously dropped) during my campaign? Should have told me!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 3, 2018

The lawyers emphasize that Trump had already gone beyond what is legally required of him and had waived the executive communications privilege in order to exhaustively satisfy Muellers queries. This fact is coupled with a legal protection that makes the president not readily available to be interviewed unless the information cannot be obtained by any other means.

The records and testimony we have, pursuant to the Presidents directive, already voluntarily provided to your office, allow you to delve into the conversations and actions that occurred in a significant and exhaustive manner, including but not limited to the testimony of the Presidents interlocutors themselves, the Jan. 28, 2018, letter states. In light of these voluntary offerings, your office clearly lacks the requisite need to personally interview the President.

Muellers investigation originally focused on allegations of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia, but over the past 12 months, the scope expanded to include unrelated charges against Trump campaign associates.

Mueller took over an existing FBI counterintelligence investigation last year. The roots of that probe have been under intense scrutiny, after recent revelations that the FBI used at least one spy to infiltrate Trumps campaign well before the investigation officially started. The FBI also used an unverified dossier funded by the Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee in order to obtain warrants to surveil Trump campaign volunteer Carter Page.

With regard to the president himself, the special counsel shifted focus from investigating collusion to an inquiry into whether Trump obstructed justice in several steps he took as president. Central among these is Trumps alleged rhetoric about the investigation of Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn and his firing of former FBI Director James Comey.

Before delving into a detailed discussion of questions raised by Mueller, Trumps legal team points out that as the chief law enforcement officer in the nation, he has the power to terminate investigations and to pardon as he sees fit. Trump decided to let Muellers probe go forward for the sake of transparency, the lawyers say.

Nevertheless, the Presidents strong desire for transparency indicated the need to obtain an honest and complete factual report from the Special Counsel, which would sustain and even benefit the Office of the President and the national interest throughout his time in office, the letter states. Thus, full cooperation was in order, and was in fact provided by all relevant parties.

Flynns Resignation

Muellers questions for Trump suggest that he is attempting to ascertain whether Trump obstructed justice by allegedly telling Comey that he hoped that Comey would let Flynn go. The account of the conversation is based on memos Comey leaked to the media after being fired. The White House denies that Trump said what Comey alleges.

Additionally, the legal team presented a list of eight reasons for why the president does not have to be interviewed in regards to the matter. Key among these is the fact that Trump has the right to offer his opinion on any investigation as part of his role as the top law enforcement official in the United States.

The legal team also points out that the investigation against Flynn proceeded unimpeded and resulted in an indictment, despite Trumps alleged comments. In addition, the letter states that Trump was under the impression, based on statements by the FBI and Comey, that there was no investigation to obstruct.

Comeys Firing

The special counsels questions about the firing of Comey suggest that the investigators are attempting to determine whether Trump fired Comey in order to obstruct the Russia investigation.

Trumps lawyers precede their arguments for why Trump should not be interviewed in regards to Comeys firing by pointing out that the president acted within the authority granted to him by the Constitution.

As you know, and as Mr. Comey himself has acknowledged, a President can fire an FBI Director at any time and for any reason, the attorneys wrote. No President has ever faced charges of obstruction merely for exercising his constitutional authority. A President can also order the termination of an investigation by the Justice Department or FBI at any time and for any reason.

Trump has stated that Comey was fired for his incompetence in handling the Clinton email investigation.

The letter states that the presidents comments in an NBC interview have been widely misreported and mischaracterized to give the impression that he was thinking of Russia when he fired Comey. The attorneys then present the relevant interview transcript in its entirety to show that Trump knew that the Russia investigation would likely be protracted if he fired Comey, but that he had to do the right thing for the American people. [Comey is] the wrong man for that position.

The lawyers conclude the letter by offering to answer questions from Mueller in written form.

We are prepared to meet to discuss a final list of questions that you need to be answered so that the Nation may move forward, and so that we may preserve the dignity of the Office of the President of the United States, the letter states.

Watch Next:

Joshua Holt Tearfully Reunited With Family in US After Being Freed by Venezuela

This is the tearful moment American citizen Joshua Holt was reunited with his family after landing in the United States, just hours after he was unexpectedly released by Venezuelas socialist government.The ZTE logo is seen on a building in Beijing on May 14, 2018. (Wang Zhao/AFP/Getty Images)

Court Records Reveal ZTEs Corruption Scheme in Liberia

Court documents newly unveiled from a civil lawsuit filed in Dallas, Texas, have revealed how Chinese telecoms giant ZTE bribed Liberian officials to win a contract to provide telecommunication services in the West African nation.

Meanwhile, American software developer Seven Networks has just filed a patent infringement lawsuit against ZTE, also in Texas.

The Dallas lawsuit was first reported on by the Australian Financial Review on May 31.

Chinas second-largest telecoms firm is beleaguered by a U.S. ban forbidding American companies from selling tech parts or software to it. ZTEs main operations have halted as a result. Since then, ZTE has become ensnared in U.S.China trade negotiations, with the Chinese side pressuring the United States to ease ZTE sanctions in exchange for China buying more American exports.

Reuters reported on June 1 that the United States was seeking a $1.7 billion penalty for ZTE, in addition to unfettered inspection visits, before allowing the company to return to business.

The ban was enacted after U.S. authorities found that ZTE had violated terms of a 2017 agreement it signed after pleading guilty to selling tech parts to Iran and North Korea, against U.S. sanctions.

New details have now emerged from a lawsuit filed in June 2010, alleging that ZTE undermined an American company to win a bid by bribing Liberian government officials.

According to court documents, Universal Telephone Exchange, a Dallas-based telecoms company, had entered into negotiations with Liberia and other West African countries between 2003 and 2004 to provide upgrades to the countrys telecommunications system.

At the same time, Universal contacted ZTEs American subsidiary company about the possibility of the latter providing switching equipment for Universals West Africa projects. The two companies signed a nondisclosure agreement.

But when Liberias state-owned telecoms company, Liberia Telecommunications Corp. (LTC), solicited bids for a project in 2005, ZTE submitted a bid in competition with Universal. Universal eventually won the bid.

Thats when ZTE began lobbying Liberian officials to cancel the contract with Universal and instead award it to ZTE.

Two LTC officials testified under oath that they were bribed, according to the documents.

ZTE offered Alfred D. Bargor, deputy managing director at LTC, a lifetime commission of 5 percent of ZTEs revenues from sales to LTC should LTC give the contract to ZTE, in addition to $30,000 in cash stashed in a brown paper bagwhich was handed to Bargor in a Liberia hotel.

ZTE staff member Liu Ruipeng also approached LTC managing director Amara M. Kromah, who was offered the same 5 percent commission, in addition to two cash payments in brown paper bags and an all-expenses-paid trip to China, where he was allowed an unlimited shopping spree.

The company also bribed then-Liberian President Gyude Bryant and court judges. Universal sued ZTE in Liberia in 2006. Though the Supreme Court ruled that the LTC contract should go to Universal, the court could not compel LTC to do business with it. That year, a criminal court also charged ZTE and several Liberian officials, including Kromah, with corruption in the same case.

According to the latest court records, Universal and ZTE entered into arbitration in 2012, but are currently in a legal dispute over the arbitration award.

In an email response to the Australian Financial Review, ZTE denied the allegations and said it maintains a high standard of ethics and integrity in its business activities throughout the world.

ZTE has a long record of corruption and bad behavior. The court documents cite a 2015 report by an ethics council for the Norwegian governments sovereign wealth fundthe worlds largestwhich found that ZTE was involved in corruption allegations in 18 countries from 2007, when it was listed publicly on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, to 2014. The council found ZTEs gross corruption reason for discontinuing investments. The fund then sold its stake in ZTE and blacklisted the company.

New Lawsuit

On May 31, UK tech news website The Register reported that American firm Seven Networks filed a lawsuit at a federal court in northern Texas, alleging that ZTE infringed upon seven patents it has filed on smartphone data transfers, battery life, notifications, and other software.

ZTEs Blade smartphones contain software that Seven Networks developed, and is now seeking monetary compensation, according to The Register.Mohel Manachem Fleischmann (L) concludes the circumcision ceremony of baby infant Mendl Teichtal at the Chabad Lubawitsch Orthodox Jewish synagogue on March 3, 2013 in Berlin, Germany. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

Danish Parliament to Vote on Banning Circumcision of Boys

Controversial vote crosses ethical and religious boundaries

A petition calling for a ban on circumcising boys in Denmark has attracted more than 50,000 signatures, forcing Danish lawmakers to debate the topic in a potential world first.

The citizens petition proposes a six-year prison sentence for anyone who carries out circumcision on boys under the age of 18 for non-medical reasons. The petition reached a 50,000 threshold on June 1, which means the Danish parliament is required to debate the issue. The vote is likely to take place in this fall.

The debate around banning the procedure raises ethical dilemmas about childrens rights as well as freedom of religion.

Male circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin. It is carried out for medical, cultural, or religious reasons.

Over a third of males around the world are circumcised, according to health officials, and about half of those for cultural and religious reasons. The procedure is performed most notably in Jewish and Muslim communities.

Legislation banning circumcision in boys was proposed in Iceland earlier this year, but it is unlikely to become law. It has sparked criticism from religious leaders in Europe, with many fearing a ban could foster anti-Semitism and Islamophobia.

The bill in Denmark is unlikely to pass, as none of the main political parties support it, according to local reports.

Wed be all alone and the first country in the world to go in that direction, Danish foreign minister Anders Samuelsen told the newspaper Altinget. It makes us vulnerable, and it means that the allies who normally help us in a precarious situation, will, in this situation, not be by our side.

But Lena Nyhus of Intact Denmark, the group that proposed the petition, says it is an issue of childrens rights.

No one should be allowed to cut their religious belief into your body, said Nyhus. Its the question of the right to bodily integrity, bodily autonomy, and to religious freedom.

Nyhus remains positive for the votes support, but added, We are definitely expecting a lot more debate before we reach any conclusion.

Like the bill in Iceland, the petition in Denmark proposes that male circumcision be criminalized in the same way as the internationally condemned cultural practice of female genital mutilation, which leads to a six-year prison sentence. Female genital mutilation is banned in most European countries.

But Milah UK, which campaigns to protect the rights of Jewish people to carry out male circumcision, says that parallels cannot be drawn between female genital mutilation and male circumcision.

It is a minor procedure, carried out by a trained practitioner in a clean environment which has no recognised negative impact on the child or on the rest of his life, the organization says.

The American Academy of Pediatrics concluded in a study that the health benefits of newborn male circumcision outweigh the risks.

According to a 2010 Pew Research Center study, less than 0.1 percent of Denmarks population of about 5.7 million are Jewish and 4.1 percent are Muslim. A poll by Megafon for the television network TV2 in Denmark showed that 83 percent of voters supported the ban on circumcising boys.

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How Doctors in China Turn into Murderers

Former Chinese surgeon Enver Tohti said he was turned into a killing robot while thinking he was working for a great cause.Disease From This Type of Animal Has Increased Dramatically Across the US  Its a Warning

The number of Americans sickened each year by bites from infected mosquitoes, ticks, or fleas tripled from 2004 through 2016, with infection rates spiking sharply in 2016 as a result of a Zika outbreak, U.S. health officials said on Tuesday, May 1.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that some 96,075 diseases caused by bites by mosquitoes, ticks and fleas were reported in 2016, up from 27,388 in 2004, in an analysis of data from the CDCs National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, Reuters reported.

Disease cases from #mosquito, #tick, and #flea bites tripled in the US from 2004-2016. Over 640,000 cases of disease spread by mosquitoes and ticks reported and 9 new germs discovered or introduced in the US. Learn more in new #VitalSigns. https://t.co/cNTztAgt5O pic.twitter.com/N6m7HhHpIx  CDC (@CDCgov) May 1, 2018

Infections in 2016 went up 73 percent from 2015, reflecting the emergence of Zika, which is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause severe birth defects. Zika was the most common disease borne by ticks, mosquitoes and fleas reported in 2016, with 41,680 cases reported, followed by Lyme disease, with 36,429 cases, almost double the number in 2004.

Almost everyone has been bitten by a mosquito, tick, or flea. These can be vectors for spreading pathogens (germs), noted the CDC.

A person who gets bitten by a vector and gets sick has a vector-borne disease, like dengue, Zika, Lyme, or plague, it said, adding that only state and local health departments and vector control organizations are the nations main defense against this increasing threat.

But, it added, that only 84 percent of local vector control organizations lack at least 1 of 5 core vector control competencies. Better control of mosquitoes and ticks is needed to protect people from these costly and deadly diseases.

It said that new infections such as the Chikungunya and Zika viruses caused outbreaks in the U.S. for the first time, and seven new tickborne germs can infect people in the U.S.

Zika, West Nile, Lyme and chikungunyaa growing list of diseases caused by the bite of an infected mosquito, tick, or fleahave confronted the U.S. in recent years, making a lot of people sick. And we dont know what will threaten Americans next, Dr. Robert R. Redfield, director of the CDC, said in a statement, ABC News reported.

The ABC report noted that the most notable increase was Lyme disease, which has doubled in cases in the 13-year span of the report. Its because ticks have spread to new areas of the country.

It enables these ticks to expand to new areas. Where there are ticks, there comes diseases, said Lyle Petersen, director of the CDCs Division of Vector-Borne Diseases.

The CDC says that Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of some ticks.

The typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system, says the CDC.

Warmer summer temperatures also tend to bring outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses, officials said, Reuters reported.

While Zika stood out as the latest emerging threat in the report, it also showed a long-term increase in cases of tick-borne Lyme disease, which can attack the heart and nervous system if left untreated.

Researchers warned that their numbers likely do not include every case as many infections are not reported.

These increases are due to many factors, including growing populations of the insects that transmit them and increased exposure outside of the United States by travelers who unknowingly transport diseases back home.

The CDC said more than 80 percent of vector-control organizations across the United States lack the capacity to prevent and control these fast-spreading, demanding illnesses. Petersen said that federal programs are increasing funding for those organizations.

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Mesmerizing Venus Flytrap Anemone Found Deep in the Ocean

Reuters contributed to this report.The Iron Dome air-defense system fires to intercept a rocket over the city of Ashdod, Israel, on July 8, 2014. (Ilia Yefimovich/Getty Images)

Hamas Launches More Rockets Into Israel, Israel Fighter Jets Return Fire on Terror Targets

JERUSALEM/GAZAHamas terrorists launched a rocket at Israel on Saturday night and four more before daybreak on Sunday triggering blaring sirens as thousands of Israelis ran to bomb shelters in southern Israel.

The rocket attacks drew retaliatory strikes by Israeli fighter jets on a number of Hamas positions in Gaza, all only a few days after the areas most intense fighting since the 2014 war. Earlier this week on May 29, a barrage of over 100 mortar shells and rockets was fired toward several locations in Southern Israel. One Hamas mortar hit an Israeli kindergarten. A resulting ceasefire came into effect Wednesday morning.

In the latest launchthe first violation of the May 30 ceasefireat least four projectiles were fired at southern Israel from Hamas sites in Gaza, the Israeli military said in a statement, adding that three were intercepted and one fell short.

Rocket alerts sounded in Israeli towns and villages near the border after dark, sending residents rushing to shelters. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the rocket fire.

Residents in Gaza said Israeli aircraft struck at least three sites belonging to Hamas, the Islamic terrorist group which controls the enclave.

The Israeli military confirmed in a statement it had carried out the air strikes, adding that the Hamas terror organization is solely responsible for all events that transpire in the Gaza Strip and emanate from it.

There were no immediate reports of casualties in any of the incidents.

This illustration depicts the rockets and mortars that terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip fired at Israeli civilians pic.twitter.com/kZvxyq5NkW  IDF (@IDFSpokesperson) May 30, 2018

Dozens of military targets that were struck within the Gaza Strip pic.twitter.com/cdHQnNEN31  IDF (@IDFSpokesperson) May 30, 2018

Terrorists from Hamas and Islamic Jihad fired over 100 rockets and mortar bombs at southern Israel throughout Tuesday and overnight into Wednesday. Hamas and Iran-backed Palestinian Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for the terrorist rocket attacks on Israel according to a Tuesday, May 29, update from the official Embassy of Israel. Israel responded with tank fire and air strikes on more than 65 Hamas and Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza.

The IDF, using fighter jets, attacked 10 terror targets in three compounds belonging to the Hamas terror group in the Gaza Strip. Among the targets that were attacked were two sites used to manufacture and store weapons and a military compound, the Israeli army said.

The border area along the Gaza strip has been under pressure in the past few weeks as Palestinians protested the blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt in 2007 when the Hamas terrorist group seized power.

More than 2 million Palestinians live in the narrow coastal enclave living under Hamas rule. Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005, but maintains tight control of its land and sea borders, for security concerns.

Egypt also restricts movement in and out of Gaza on its border.

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President Trump Says Change Must Come From Within For Peace In Middle EastBorder Patrol encounters a group of unaccompanied minors who just crossed the Rio Grande from Mexico into the United States in Hidalgo County, Texas, on May 26, 2017. (Benjamin Chasteen/The Epoch Times)

Illegal Immigrant Program Creating Proxy Foster Care System, Says Official

WASHINGTONMore than 10,000 minor children who crossed the southwest border illegally, without a parent or guardian, are currently in the custody of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The vast majority (more than 90 percent) hail from the Central American countries of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Most are aged between 15 and 17.

Steven Wagner, acting assistant secretary at HHS Administration for Children and Families, said the Unaccompanied Alien Children Program has grown vastly beyond its original intention.

The [program] was never intended, however, to be a foster care system, Wagner said on a May 29 media call.

He said the program runs at an immediate cost to the federal taxpayer of over $1 billion a year.

A total of 21,720 unaccompanied minors were apprehended on the southwest border between Oct. 1, 2017, and March 31, according to the Department of Homeland Security. An additional 4,605 were deemed inadmissible at U.S. ports of entry.

Wagner said that under a current immigration loophole, HHS is forced to release minors from Central America into the United States rather than return them to their country of origin, if they do not qualify for another immigration benefit.

The loophole is the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), which has a provision that says a minor from a noncontiguous country cannot be turned back to Mexico or flown back to their home countryeven if the individual is not a victim of trafficking, nor if their age, identity, credible fear status, or criminal background cannot be verified.

White House senior adviser for policy Stephen Miller said this creates a two-tiered illegal immigration system.

Aliens arriving illegally from Mexico, by and large, can be processed quickly and returned home together quickly. Aliens arriving from Central Americathat is not the case. And they are entitled under these current loopholes to be released inside the United States. Many [are] never to be seen or heard from again, he said.

The administration wants Congress to amend the TVPRA so that minors who are not genuine trafficking victims can be quickly returned home or removed to safe third countries.

This is an example of open borders, Wagner said. And you can see that the UAC [unaccompanied alien children] program is being utilized because it has an economic benefit to the people who are coming here, often with the aid and assistance of smugglers.

Minors Entering

When a child under the age of 18 enters the United States illegally, they often seek out Border Patrol, which is then mandated under the Flores Settlement Agreement to transfer the minor to HHS Office of Refugee and Resettlement within 72 hours.

The administration wants Congress to terminate Floresa Clinton-era settlement of a class-action lawsuitand fold relevant care provisions into the TVPRA.

HHS is mandated to temporarily house the minors and then release them to a sponsor within the United States. Most are released within an average of 57 days in HHS custody.

So HHS has been put in the position of placing illegal aliens with individuals who helped arrange for them to enter the country illegally in the first place, Wagner said. This makes the immediate crisis worse and creates an economic incentive for further violation of federal immigration law.

Many minors are brought into the United States by family members who pay to smuggle them across the border illegally. Often, the family members are also in the country illegally. HHS is then forced to house the minors and pay to transport them to where their family members live.

Were not able to deny placement just because parents or family members are in the country illegally, Wagner said.

Trump wants to clarify the unaccompanied minor designation and remove the benefits for minors who are living with a parent here illegally. Those benefits include access to food stamps, medical care, and social services.

Wagner said HHS and the Department of Homeland Security have just signed a memorandum of agreement that will give more information to HHS about the unaccompanied minor.

We think this is going to be a major step forward, as it provides information to HHS so that we can more thoroughly vet the unaccompanied alien children for a background in gang activity, Wagner said.

MS-13

The unaccompanied minor program has been used as a pipeline for recruitment for the MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, gang. The gang sends members to the United States from El Salvador as unaccompanied minors, and it recruits from recently arrived minors from Central America.

Peter Fitzhugh, deputy special agent in charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New York, said MS-13 membership has expanded since 2014, coinciding with a flood of thousands of unaccompanied minors across the southwest border.

The counties absorbing the greatest number of unaccompanied minors are Harris County in Texas, Los Angeles County, Suffolk County in New York, and Miami-Dade County in Florida.

These four counties have taken in around 30,000 minors in their communities and schools in the last several years.

All four counties are struggling with the proliferation of MS-13 gang violence. An ICE operation last year resulted in the arrest of 214 MS-13 gang members, 30 percent of whom originally entered the United States as unaccompanied alien children.

Vetting Sponsors

Under the new memorandum of agreement, HHS will also start vetting sponsors more thoroughly.

We will conduct a fingerprint-based background check on every sponsor, to further ensure theres never an incident of kids being released into human trafficking rings as regrettably occurred in 2016 under the previous administration, Wagner said.

Plus we have the problem of people fraudulently claiming to be parents, when in fact theyre not. Actually matching the family relationship is a challenge for us.

Miller said Democrats are exclusively and solely to blame for keeping the current loopholes open.

He said the Democrats who claim to be alarmed by the humanitarian situation unfolding in our hemisphere, the loopholes that they fight so hard to protect, are the source, cause, and reason for the humanitarian conditions driven by the child smuggling trade in our hemisphere.

Watch Next:

What is MS-13?Indonesian Police Raid University Over Suspected Plot to Attack Assemblies

JAKARTAIndonesian anti-terrorism police have detained three former students in a raid on a university campus in Pekanbaru, on Sumatra island, and seized crude bombs and other explosive material, police said.

The men, who have been named as suspects, are thought to have been planning to attack the local parliament in Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau province, national police spokesman Setyo Wasisto said in a statement.

During Saturdays raid on a faculty at the Islamic University of Riau, police found a pipe bomb, a homemade grenade, as well as the homemade explosive triacetone triperoxide (TATP), known as the mother of Satan, Wasisto said.

They also seized an air rifle and sets of bows and arrows, as well as other material such as fertilizer that could be used to make bombs, he said.

Authorities have highlighted concerns about a rise in radicalism at universities in the worlds biggest Muslim-majority country.

A number of recent surveys of students have pointed to significant support for ISIS, carrying out jihad and the establishment of a caliphate in Indonesia.

After some major successes tackling Islamic terrorism in the last two decades, there have also been a resurgence of attacks in recent years.

Last month, police shot dead four men who used samurai swords to attack officers at police headquarters in Pekanbaru.

That attack came soon after a series of suicide bombings by Islamic terrorists targeting churches and a police building in Indonesias second-biggest of city of Surabaya.

In all, about 30 people were killed in the attacks in Surabaya, including 13 of the suspected suicide bombers.

Police say the bombers belonged to cells of the ISIS-inspired Jemaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), an umbrella organization on a U.S. State Department terrorist list that is reckoned to have drawn hundreds of Indonesian sympathisers.

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Australias China Experts Discuss Chinese Communist Party Infiltration in Australia

The conflicts between two different values systems, and the conflicts between the two political systems are issues that cannot be ignored.People walk by a sign at the entrance to Rikers Island in New York City on March 31, 2017. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

NYC Released Nearly 40 Criminal Aliens Who Then Reoffended

Almost 40 convicted criminals who are in the country illegally were released by New York City jails and subsequently reoffended during a three-month period beginning in January.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) said it had placed detainers on all of those criminals, as well as 400 other illegal aliens who were in NYPD or Department of Corrections custody.

The detainer asked the jails to notify ICE when an alien in custody will be released, so that the agency can assume custody.

Simply put, the politics and rhetoric in this city are putting its own communities at an unnecessary risk, said Scott Mechowski, acting field office director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in New York.

One of the criminals who reoffended is a 28-year-old Salvadoran man who was arrested for assault in March, released by the jail, and then arrested for robbery in April.

A 20-year-old from Guatemala was arrested in January for a felony assault on an elderly person over 65 years of age. He was released and then arrested in February for felony grand larceny, and again in March for resisting arrest. ICE placed a detainer on him each time he was arrested.

ICE has not had an office in New York jails since 2014, when the mayors office signed a sanctuary policy that only allows detainers to be honored when the crime is one of 170 considered egregious by the city. The Mayors Office of Immigrant Affairs says ICE is allowed to enter and interview detainees in custody if the detainee provides consent.

Another individual who was released, despite a detainer, is a 20-year-old illegal alien from Jamaica who was arrested for possession of a weapon in April. His criminal history also includes arrests for fraud, robbery, and homicide.

ICE has no choice but to continue to conduct at-large arrests in local neighborhoods and at worksites, wasting valuable resources on criminal aliens who could be securely turned over to ICE custody at jails and prisons, Mechowski said.

Operation Safe City, conducted in September last year, netted 450 illegal aliens in several cities that fail to honor detainers, including New York, Washington, Baltimore, and Los Angeles.

Sanctuary jurisdictions that do not honor detainers or allow us access to jails and prisons are shielding criminal aliens from immigration enforcement and creating a magnet for illegal immigration, said ICE Deputy Director Tom Homan, after the operation.

Homan said statistics show that more than half of criminals will reoffend in the first year of being released.

Data from the Arizona state prison system shows that illegal immigrants are at least 142 percent more likely to be convicted of a crime than other Arizonans, according to a study by John Lott, founder and president of the Crime Prevention Research Center.

Lott also found that illegal immigrants tend to commit more serious crimes, serve 10.5 percent longer sentences, are more likely to be classified as dangerous, and are 45 percent more likely to be gang members than U.S. citizens. They are also much more likely to commit sexual offenses against minors, sexual assault, DUI, and armed robbery.

The data represent all of the prisoners who entered the Arizona Corrections Department from January 1985 through June 2017.

During that period, 464,641 prisoners entered the system, Lott obtained citizenship status information for 462,978 of them.

Correction: A previous version of this article stated New York City does not allow ICE to into its jails. According to the Mayors Office of Immigrant Affairs, ICE is allowed to enter and interview detainees in custody if the detainee provides consent. Epoch Times regrets the error.Plane Makes Emergency Landing Over What Passenger Did In Bathroom

Southwest Airlines passengers were partway through an uneventful flight when one of the passengers decided that the No Smoking warnings were only a suggestion.

The passenger tried to sneak a cigarette while hiding in the planes restroom but set off the smoke alarm.

Flight 1250, from San Francisco to Los Angeles, had to make an unscheduled landing at San Joses Mineta International Airport.

An earlier account of the incident reported that the passenger was smoking marijuana, but according to Business Insider, this was not the case.

The passenger was handed over to officers from the San Jose Police Department upon landing but was not arrested.

Far From the First or Worst

Passengers who dont want to follow the rules are always a problembut passengers have tried to do far worse than sneak a smoke.

On two occasions in the past ten months, passengers have decided to get off a planewhile it was in flight.

In August 2017, a man flying American Airlines from Los Angeles to Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport had to be wrestled to the floor and held down by passengers after he tried to open the emergency exit.

The passenger wouldnt have saved much time had he gotten the door openthe plane was already descending to the airports runway.

In March 2018, a woman on SkyWest Airlines flight 5449 from San Francisco to Boise, Idaho, decided to make an early exit.

Again, other passengers jumped on the woman, holding her down. A video taken onboard shows the lady thrashing around while screaming, I am God, I am God, I am God.

The travelers on board might have felt better in knowing that any attempt to open the doors mid-flight would have not succeeded anyway. According to air travel blogger Jason Rabinovitz told Travel + Leisure, Its physically impossible.

When at cruising altitude, the pressure difference between the outside of the plane and the inside of the plane, which is pressurized, creates a situation where the door cannot open.

Watch Next:

People Gather to Protest Real Bodies Exhibition in Sydney

There is reason to believe that the corpses on display have come from non-consenting Chinese citizens.Actor Benedict Cumberbatch attends a new conference to promote the film "The Current War" at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in Toronto, Canada, Sep. 10, 2017. (REUTERS/Fred Thornhill/File Photo)

Sherlock Actor Benedict Cumberbatch Saves Cyclist From Muggers in London

LONDONBritish actor Benedict Cumberbatch, known for his portrayal of fictional crime-fighter Sherlock Holmes and comic book superhero Doctor Strange in the Marvel movies, has been hailed a hero for chasing away four assailants as they mugged a cyclist in London.

Cumberbatch, 41, jumped out of his taxi and ran to the aid of the man working for food delivery company Deliveroo as he was set upon by the muggers, the Sun newspaper reported.

The cyclist was lucky, Benedicts a superhero, Cumberbatchs Uber driver Manuel Dias told the Sun. Benedict was courageous, brave and selfless. If he hadnt stepped in the cyclist could have been seriously injured.

The attempted robbery took place on Marylebone High Street, just around the corner from Holmes fictional home on Baker Street.

One of the males attempted to grab the victims cycle  He was then punched in the face, struck on the head and hit with his helmet, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement, adding that the incident took place in November last year.

Nothing was reported stolen. The victim did not require hospital treatment. No arrests have been made, the statement added.

Cumberbatch, who has played the fictional detective in TV series Sherlock since 2010, has also starred in films such as The Hobbit, Avengers: Infinity War and The Imitation Game, where he portrayed British World War Two codebreaker Alan Turing.

Dias said the actor ran up to the assailants and pulled them away, shouting leave him alone before they fled.

Cumberbatch told the Sun he was not a hero.

I did it out of, well, I had to, you know , he was quoted as saying.

By Alistair Smout

Watch Now:

Man Rescues Toddler From Underneath a Train Carriage

Only two seconds passed between the girl going under and teh man pulling her to safety.U.S. Commerce Sec. Wilbur Ross (L) chats with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He after their trade meeting in Beijing on June 3. (Andy Wong/AFP/Getty Images)

China Reports Positive Progress Made in Trade Talks With US

Third round of talks concludes after months of jockeying

The latest round of trade talks between the United States and China in Beijing made positive and concrete progress, China said as a weekend round of talks concluded between U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He on June 3.

While the details of the latest agreement have yet to be ironed out, China warned that any progress made so far would be nullified if the United States implements any trade sanctions, according to a statement released on Xinhua, Chinas state media.

The latest agreement follows an earlier appeasement on May 31, when China said it would cancel certain restrictions on foreign investments in sectors China deems strategically important.

In recent weeks, there has been a series of edicts, then reversals, followed by reversals of reversals from the Trump administration regarding its stance on China and whether it will impose punitive tariffs on Chinese goods. Each statement was met with either retaliatory or conciliatory remarks from Beijing.

The weekend concludedfor nowa tense several months of jockeying for position by both sides.

How Did We Get Here?

In 2017, President Donald Trump showed relative restraint and improved relations with his counterpart Xi Jinping. However, in January of this year, the United States fired the first shot and announced major trade tariffs.

The United States levied a 30-percent tariff on solar panels, most of which are manufactured in China, after two U.S. solar panel manufacturers petitioned the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate dumping practicesor selling products below costfrom foreign companies.

In March, the United States announced new tariffs of 25 percent on imported steel and 10 percent on imported aluminum. The trade action was again focused on China, the worlds biggest steel exporter.

That led to a tumultuous April, when several tit-for-tat tariffs were threatened involving a swath of industries in both countries, including fruits, nuts, pork, wine, machinery, medical supplies, cars, and chemicals.

The trade skirmish further escalated when the United States banned ZTE Corp., one of Chinas biggest telecommunications companies, from purchasing U.S. components for seven years due to several concerns ranging from security to violating U.S. sanctions. The sanctions forced ZTE to suspend its shares from trading in April and was on the verge of going out of business.

All of this paved the way for the bilateral talks that took place in Beijing in May.

What Does America Want?

The United States has several unresolved issues with China, some longstanding, that Trump and his cabinet are looking to address.

Some of these date back decades, and over the years have sapped American competitiveness and innovation.

The first is a trade imbalancethe United States currently purchases more than four times as much from China as China does from the United States. While China has increased purchases of U.S. agricultural products in recent years, the gap is still widening.

Lack of access to domestic Chinese markets is another major concern. While China continues to seek market access abroad, it keeps several major industries off limits to foreign investors.

The third issueand possibly the thorniestis the intellectual property theft that Chinese firms have benefited from, often condoned and conducted by the Chinese communist regime directly. The cost of Chinas intellectual property theft costs United States innovators billions of dollars a year, and China accounts for 87 percent of counterfeit goods seized coming into the United States, a May 29 White House announcement said.

This issue is one that even the presidents staunchest critics agree with: Chinas bid to dominate the high-tech industries using unscrupulous means must be checked.

But this area is also the most sensitive and impacts Americas future as well as Chinas. Through its Made in China 2025 program, Beijing has issued directives to move the country up the manufacturing value chain and become a global leader in advanced sciences such as robotics, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence.

Those ambitions are fine, but China is seeking superiority using often illegal means. In its effort, China has essentially put its entire country behind the drive, granting subsidies to state-owned companies and putting the full power of a nation against independent and disparate individual foreign companies.

Its bypassing R&D by stealing intellectual property using Chinese spies, hackers, and forced technology sharing with Chinese joint-venture partners. A 200-page report produced by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative detailed a number of complaints from U.S. companiesmostly done anonymously for fear of retaliation.Qatar-based Retaj Hotels & Hospitality Group said it has signed an agreement with Turkish Nivo Group to manage and operate Retaj Suites and Residences - Nivo Atakoy Suites & Residences.

With this, Retaj has become the first Arab company to operate a hotel in the Atakoy area, located approximately 5 km from the airport. Well-known for its charming sea-view, Atakoy area, which is 20 minutes by car from Taksim Square, makes it a great destination for visitors.

The upcoming Nivo project is being developed at Atakoy, one of Istanbul's most up-and-coming quarters in partnership with Turkey-based Cathay Group.

Retaj Hotels & Hospitality Group is keen on providing conservative tourism to Qatari and Arab visitors who are primarily targeted by Turkish tourism, remarked Dr Mohammed Bin Johar Al Mohammad, the vice chairman and managing director of Retaj Group, after signing the deal with Mahmut Alper Tugsuz, the chairman of Cathay Company, Mehmet Ylmaz, the vice chairman of Cathay and Imad Shanan, the chairman of Liderlik development.

In addition, the ceremony included the signing of a real estate marketing contract for the properties of the Turkish company in Qatar, as well as a technical support contract to provide technical advice and support by Retaj.

"Expanding the management and operation of hotels in Turkey stems from the group's vision and strategy aimed at expanding local and international investment horizons as well as Qatar's vision of diversifying its sources of income and resources," stated Dr Al Mohammed.

Retaj Hotels and Hospitality Group, he stated, aims to provide conservative tourist destinations for Qatari investors.

The Qatari investments in Turkey are in the second place in terms of size, which exceeds $20 billion and are expected to jump to the first place in few years in many sectors, topped by tourism sector, he added.

Atakoy Hotel has 314 hotel apartments, with full privacy, and this comes in line with the vision and mission of the Retaj Hotels and Hospitality Group, which aims to spread the principles of genuine Arab hospitality.

Alper Tugsuz expressed delight in Retajs interest in Atakoy project, located in one of Istanbul's most exclusive locations.

"Retaj is one of only few investors from the Gulf to invest in the Turkish real-estate development industry. Therefore, we consider their choosing our project to invest in as a global seal of approval for our project." Thanks to the partnership agreement, Nivo Atakoy will elevate both the value and the quality of life in the region," he noted.

Located right at the centre of Atakoy and supported by its architectural and social facilities, Nivo Atakoy is now a truly a world-class real-estate project, he added.

Shanan,underlining the significance of the Nivo Atakoy project, said: "We aim to offer more lucrative opportunities to our investors with our agreement with Retaj Hotels and Hospitality."

"This agreement will help us introduce many firsts under the project, which we believe make it much more appealing to international investors," he added.-TradeArabia News ServiceUS Chipmaker Micron One of Three Companies Being Investigated By China

Three chipmaking companiesone in the U.S. and two in South Koreaare being investigated simultaneously by the Chinese government.

Micron Technology, the largest American chipmaker; Samsung Electronics; and SK Hynix, the worlds second-largest memory chipmaker, are being investigated by Chinas Anti-monopoly Bureau of State Administration for Market Regulation, Chinese news site Jiwei Net reported on June 1. Micron has since confirmed that the Chinese regulators visited its sales office on May 31 for information, according to Bloomberg.

It is unclear whether Chinas investigation has to do with the class action lawsuit filed in April in the federal district court of northern California. That lawsuit, filed by the law firm Hagens Berman on behalf of U.S. consumers, accuses the three companies of DRAM price fixing, according to Forbes. DRAM is a type of computer memory chip that powers virtually all computers and most electronic devices. Together, the three companies control 96 percent of the global DRAM chip market, with Micron making up 22.6 percent of market share in the first quarter of 2018, according to Electronics Weekly.

DRAM prices hit rock bottom in 2015 and 2016. Since then, however, prices have picked up and the three companies saw their profits double from the first quarter of 2016 to the third quarter of 2017, according to technology news site Fossbytes.

Jiwei Net reported that the pricing bureau of Chinas National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) began its inquiry into Samsung Electronics late last year. The pricing bureau has since merged with the Anti-monopoly Bureau.

The timing of Chinas investigation into Micron has raised speculation that China could be holding Micron hostage as a bargaining chip in its ongoing trade discussions with the United States.

With ZTE, the Chinese telecoms firm currently being sanctioned by the United States, the regime has pressured the U.S. administration to ease sanctions in exchange for buying more American commodities.The scene is as clear to me as if it happened yesterday.

Thirty years ago, my husband and I nervously sat in the auditorium of the middle school our son would attend in the fall. Our son was smart, engaging, and quirky  some might say irritating. But it was time for him to move from his nurturing elementary school to middle school  what would it be like?

The principal dispelled any hope that it would be good. He talked about hats  not allowed. Shouting in the halls  not allowed. Missing homework  not allowed. Backtalk  not allowed. Forgetting gym clothes  not allowed. You get the picture. Rules, rules, rules. Fun? Creativity? Challenge? Not allowed.

Sure enough, middle school was a disaster for my son, and he didnt fully recover until junior year of high school.

But elementary parents in Norwalk Public Schools are having a completely different experience from mine. Middle school leaders and staff now understand that children need more than information about classes, schedules and rules; they need to feel connected to their new school.

When students are connected to school, they want to be there, and this makes all the difference, according to the Where Everybody Belongs (WEB), a middle school transition programs website. Students who are connected to school and to each other perform better.

Parent Mirlande Pressat remembers her own anxieties about getting lost and fearing the teachers.

Lucky for my daughter, she said, Roton Middle School has this summer program where they spend six weeks in the school and they get to know their teachers.

Kids who come to the Summer Academy start the school year as leaders in the building, said Roton Principal Joe Vellucci. All four middle schools offer similar programs.

Transition activities began in February. Middle school counselors visited the elementary schools to explain the choices that kids need to make. By March, fifth-graders had chosen their world language and electives.

Evening orientation programs were held at the middle schools for parents and kids. I liked that parents went from class to class like on open school night, said parent Karine Sweitzer. It got me walking around the school, meeting some teachers, and it ended in the cafeteria with information about the extra-curriculars my daughter can choose.

And in May, each middle school invited the 5th graders for a 2-hour visit to the school. Current 6th grade students led tours and answered questions; kids met the teachers and got a feel for the environment.

Were trying to come up with different ways of approaching students before and after they arrive here, said Nathan Hale Principal Albert Sackey. We team them up with students from their own elementary school, pop into classrooms, say hi to the teachers, and help build a connection our school.

A good transition program must address the social and emotional concerns of the students and their parents. In fact, the state of Georgia publishes a 94-page transition guide filled with theory, research and dozens of activities. In a list of five areas of focus, academics is third; social and emotional needs is first.

At a parent meeting at Rowayton Elementary School, Roton Guidance Counselor Kathy Mahoney summed up it up like this: They come into middle school as children, and they leave as teenagers.

She told parents that middle school kids have lots of ups and downs. They can go from happy to sad to mad in minutes. The once chatty child may now go into her room and close the door for hours.

Sweitzer, who has two older children, said its a crazy time. You dont even know what youre going to get into until you are in it, she said.

But Roton is ready to help. We offer small groups about feeling management, self-esteem, ESL acculturation, even grief counseling, Mahoney said. We have lunch bunch small groups for kids who need a safe and quiet place to talk about whats bothering them.

Parent Shiloh Martin-Adam acknowledged, I like that they will be in a middle school bubble where they can do puberty and crazy brain behavior, so when they shift out to high school they will be responsible.

Many kids are ready for the up-coming transition. Norwalk ACTS and Norwalk Public Schools published a survey of 459 5th grade students. 170 students said they were ready for middle school; 160 said they were very ready.

My daughter has a plan, said Pressat. Shes going to join as many groups as she can and find nice friends.

Sweitzers daughter is ready: She wants different teachers, wants a locker, wants to be busy. Shes not afraid.

Martin-Adam said her daughter is not worried: She seems relaxed. I feel shes been well-prepared by Brookside for the transition.

My third child, 10 years younger than my first, had a much better experience in middle school. In fact, he came home from his first day at Roton and said he loved the school. Surprised, I asked why. Because we have lockers! he said.

Sometimes, its the little things that count.Wall Street analysts have given Hertz Global a "N/A" rating, but there may be better buying opportunities in the stock market. Some of MarketBeat's past winning trading ideas have resulted in 5-15% weekly gains. MarketBeat just released five new stock ideas, but Hertz Global wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.National carrier Oman Air launched a new daily flight from Muscat to the Turkish city of Istanbul on June 1.



The inaugural flight WY 163 departed Muscat International Airport at 20.10 hrs. after a cake-cutting ceremony at Oman Airs exclusive First and Business class check-in lounge. The Oman Air delegation, led by chief commercial officer Paul Starrs, was received by key officials at the Istanbul Ataturk International Airport.



The new route was operated by a Boeing 737-800 with a flight time of 5 hours and 25 minutes.



Flight WY163 will depart Muscat International Airports new, award-winning passenger terminal daily at 20.10, arriving in Istanbul Ataturk International Airport at 00.25. The return flight WY164 will depart Istanbul each day at 01.25, arriving in Muscat at 07.25.



Oman Air will host a gala Iftar dinner and a press conference at the Kempinski hotel in Istanbul, which will see important dignitaries, media members and travel trade guests attend the events.



The new route between Oman and Turkey will strengthen the existing vibrant bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries. With the opening of this route, Oman Airs guests will be able to explore one of the worlds most thriving cities. Intertwining both ancient and modern cultures, the largest city in Turkey, Istanbul is the heart of the country's economic, cultural, and historical roots, with much to offer Oman Air guests travelling to this beautiful destination.



Oman Air is currently undergoing an exciting fleet and network expansion programme, which will see the airline operate up to 66 aircraft to 60 destinations by 2022. The airline continues to be recognised for its award-winning onboard experience; winning a raft of industry awards to add to its growing collection. - TradeArabia News Service1 hour ago

Biden tries to tame inflation by having LA port open 24/7

WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden tried to reassure Americans on Wednesday that he can tame high inflation, announcing a deal to expand operations at the Port of Los Angeles as prices keep climbing and container ships wait to dock in a traffic jam threatening the U.S.

Read ArticleHyatt Hotels has announced the opening of the first property under its Grand Hyatt brand in Abu Dhabi.



The Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residence Emirates Pearl combines iconic brand elements and awe-inspiring design and architecture with a central location in the capital that offers easy access to world-class shopping, dining and cultural events.



As the second Grand Hyatt hotel in the UAE, joining Grand Hyatt Dubai, the Abu Dhabi property is a noteworthy addition to Hyatts steadfast growing hotel portfolio in the Middle East. The hotel is currently operating with a limited room inventory and a limited number of dining options. All other facilities, including the Grand Club, are expected to be available for guests in late 2018.



A short 35-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the hotel is located along the charming Corniche, offering generous beachfront promenades and stunning landmark city views that feature famed UAE landmarks, including Emirates Palace, the Presidential Palace and The Founders Memorial.



We are excited to open Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residence Emirates Pearl today, said Julien Gonzalvez, general manager of the hotel. This opening marks an important milestone in Hyatts growing portfolio in the Middle East. The property is set to become an iconic and sought-after venue for both local and international visitors alike.



Today, we are proud to open our new landmark hotel and residences, a destination with a premium location and hospitality excellence that will strongly contribute to the growing, high-quality tourism and travel sector in the UAE capital, said Ahmed Seddiq Al Mutawaa, chairman of EPDI, the owners of Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl. With the utmost dedication, our team has designed and built an exceptional and timeless luxury property which celebrates our local culture and history, and incorporates features such as the story of the natural pearl, a historical and famously symbolic Abu Dhabi treasure.



Accommodations



Meticulously designed with bold and vibrant features, the property houses 332 guestrooms, 36 lavish suites, including the Presidential and Palatial Royal Suites, and 60 full-service one and two-bedroom residences, ranging from 968 to 1,500-sq-ft, each thoughtfully conceptualized with key locally inspired details. For those residing in Suite or Club floor, additional exclusivity can be discovered on the 26th floor, as the Grand Club Lounge will provide a luxurious living space with sweeping views of the city's skyline and the glittering Arabian Gulf.



Dining



The hotel is home to a variety of signature bars and restaurants, each offering a distinctive culinary journey with the promise of delivering truly memorable dining experiences for hotel guests and locals alike. Now open, Verso is an authentic Italian Trattoria, engaging diners in the Italian way of life with authentic flavours in a colourful and lively ambience, and the elegant Pearl Lounge where guests can enjoy a fine treat or an opulent afternoon tea.



Meetings and Events



Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residence Emirates Pearls flexible event space totals more than 50,500-sq-ft, including 12 fully integrated meeting rooms, all of which are located on the same floor and feature private outdoor terraces and natural daylight. The 11,194-sq-ft Al Bateen Ballroom, with a separate entrance, VIP room, bridal suite and pre-function space, provides an ideal location for social events, special occasions and weddings of all sizes, complete with dedicated staff to assist in planning and execution.



Well-being and Recreation

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residence Emirates Pearl offers a stunning 164-ft outdoor infinity pool and the well-being facilities extend over an entire floor with spacious outdoor terraces, providing a fully immersive well-being experience. The Luma Spa will feature dedicated separate male and female areas with private showers and changing areas. Spa highlights include specialty treatments using local techniques, signature Hammam, sauna, steam bath and relaxation rooms.



Special Offer

World of Hyatt members staying at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residence Emirates Pearl can earn 2,500 Bonus Points for every five qualifying nights when they stay from June 1 through August 31. - TradeArabia News ServiceEmirates has introduced a new non-stop service between Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Dubai, adding to its existing daily flight which operates with a stop in Athens, Greece, said a report.



The new non-stop service, operated with an Emirates Boeing 777-300ER, offers eight suites in First Class, 42 seats in Business, 306 in Economy Class, and 19 tonnes of belly-hold cargo capacity, said a report in Wam



Flight EK223 departs Dubai at 0300am and arrives in Newark at 0900am. The return flight EK224 departs Newark at 1150am, arriving in Dubai at 0820am the next day. This new timing complements the existing Emirates service, as it provides travellers with a new option of a morning arrival in Newark, and a morning departure.



The morning arrival in Dubai also means east-bound travellers can conveniently explore one of the worlds most dynamic cities on a stopover day tour, before taking an evening connection to another destination on Emirates global network.



Emirates non-stop service to Newark offers travellers in northern New Jersey enhanced global connectivity, particularly those heading to Africa, the Far East, and the Indian sub-continent. This is a boon for ethnic communities such as the nearly 700,000 Indian Americans residing in the greater New York area, who will have one-stop access to nine Indian cities on Emirates global network.



Emirates serves 12 points in the US, helping to link the worlds largest economy with emerging markets that will further drive American economic growth, trade, and job creation, the report said. - TradeArabia News ServiceSkateboards and scooters come from far and wide for chance to skateEDMONTONIf Canadians love their mountains, they will have to start paying attention to them, experts say.

A recent report on the state of Canadas mountains documented dramatic change in alpine environments caused by climbing temperatures from global warming.

Melting glaciers, rerouted rivers, shrinking lakes, shortened ski seasons, and more landslides are just a few of the symptoms listed in the report released by the Alpine Club of Canada in May.

David Hik, a biology professor at the University of Alberta and one of the editors of the report, said Canadians should be concerned about altered alpine landscapes as signals of change for the world.

Theyre sentinels of change in a warming world, Hik said. When snow and ice melts, it has a really dramatic effect on the landscape.

The big take-home message we wanted to convey with the report is that some of these rapid changes in glaciers will have huge downstream effects.

One of the biggest losses outlined in the report was the lowering level of Kluane Lake. Stretching 80 kilometres long and covering an area of about 400 square kilometres, its the largest body of water in the Yukon Territory.

Over the course of a few days in 2016, the Slims River, which feeds the lake with melt water from the Kaskawulsh Glacier nearby, drained as the glacier shrunk and poured its melt into another river.

As a result, the water level of Kluane Lake fell by more than 1.5 metres, and has remained low ever since. According to the report, the annual fishing derby held at Burwash Landing, a small community on the lake, was cancelled in 2017 due to access and safety issues.

You cant get a boat into it because all the boat launches, all the docks, are stranded way up above the water, Hik said. And that water isnt coming back.

Although mountain features, like rivers, change all the time, and often temporarily, the report suggests the Slims is unlikely to recover without substantial gains to the glacier.

Unless we go into a little Ice Age again, and the glaciers advance along the bedrock, thats not going to happen given the climate trajectory were on, the researcher said.

Hik, who studies mountain ecology, said hes worked in the area and observed the changes to Slims and Kluane over the past 30 years. With the uptick in global temperatures, and the gradual retreat of the glacier, researchers had been expecting a change for some time, but nobody thought it would happen so fast.

Experts have gone so far as to call it the Slims River piracy event, and its not the only one of its kind.

The report points to several glacial retreats ranging from Alaska to British Columbia, making rerouted rivers and draining lakes more likely in the future.

They change gradually and then theres a tipping point, Hik said. Its like the tap. Some of these mountain rivers are just going to turn off.

So far, nothing on the scale of the Slims River event has happened in Alberta, but Hik expects that in time, Canadians can expect similar changes in the Rockies that will have dramatic effects on life down below

Its estimated that by about 2080, at least half of the glaciers in the Rocky Mountains will have disappeared, given current warming thats occurring, he said. All of that water is not going to be flowing into rivers like the North Saskatchewan, or the Red River, or the Milk River.

Rivers that originate in the Rockies are a source of drinking water for some Canadian cities. Edmonton, for example, gets its drinking water exclusively from the North Saskatchewan.

And given that Canadas seven national mountain parks  Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes, Mount Revelstoke, and Glacier  saw just under nine million visitors last year (a five per cent increase from the year before), Hik and the other editors of the 2018 State of the Mountains report believe that theres a demand for accessible mountain information.

He also hopes the magazine, which the Alpine Club of Canada plans to publish on an annual basis, will inspire policy-makers to measure and monitor mountain changes to anticipate the effects of climate change.

We love our parks, and maybe some people have said, We love them to death, he said. But if were going to go visit the parks, my view is people want to know as much about what theyre seeing as possible.

Read more about:HALIFAXPolice in Nova Scotia are investigating a fatal ATV crash.

The RCMP in Lunenburg County say at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, officers, along with firefighters and paramedics, were called to a collision involving an ATV on Shingle Mill Rd. in the community of Martins River.

When police arrived on scene, they found a 76-year-old man had become trapped under the ATV, which appeared to have gone off the edge of the road, a RCMP statement said.

Police say the victim, who is from Martins River, died at the scene.

No one else was on the ATV when it crashed. Police say a RCMP Traffic Analyst will be leading the investigation to try and determine what happened.

Our thoughts are with the victim's family at this difficult time, the statement also said.

Read more about:InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has unveiled plans to open a new midscale hotel in Mexico with the recent signing of the first avid hotels property, which will be located in Fresnillo, Zacatecas.

Executives from both companies celebrated the signing in a private ceremony in Mexico City.



Jorge Apaez, chief operating officer, Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean, IHG, said: "The first signing in Mexico of IHGs new high-quality midscale brand demonstrates further momentum for avid hotels. New hotel signings continue to exceed expectations, and total more than 100 avid hotels across the US, Canada and now Mexico, almost one every other day since launch last year. This latest development demonstrates that owners believe in the strength of the avid hotels brand and the power of IHG.



German Ongay, vice president, Development, Mexico, IHG, added: The avid hotels brand was developed to meet the needs of everyday travellers who are looking for a high-quality, consistent experience from their hotel stay. We were confident this offering would resonate with owners in Mexico, and Operadora MBA has signed the first franchise agreement for an avid hotels location in the market just three months after launching the brand.



The avid hotels brand was thoughtfully designed for travellers who want a hotel experience that meets their expectations for the type of hospitality they value mostthe basics done exceptionally well at a great value.



The first avid hotels location in Mexico will be strategically located at the Paseo del Mineral Avenue at the citys main entrance in an area known for its commercial and business activity. The hotel will be a four storey, new-build hotel with 95 guest rooms and is expected to open in mid-2019. The avid hotel Fresnillo will offer all of the brands signature hallmarks:



The modern exterior hotel design will include an open and airy retail-like entry, a canopy, and will use the stairwell as an eye-catching red architectural feature.



On the inside, guests will find vibrant, open public and work areas and inviting communal spaces that allow guests to relax, work, connect or eat.



Guest rooms will include sound reducing features for a superior nights sleep; a dedicated workspace; open, easy-to-use storage. The guest bathroom experience will re-energize guests with a fresh and bright design.



The hotel will offer a high-quality, complimentary grab-and-go breakfast and marketplace options made for guests on the go.



The hotel will be equipped with IHG Connect wi-fi with the fastest speed in the industry and the ability for loyalty members to be automatically connected for all future visits, and will also leverage IHGs state-of-the-art, cloud-based next generation reservation system.



All avid hotels locations will leverage the strength and scale of the IHG parent brand to further drive confidence and assurance of this new brand and will be part of IHG Rewards Club, an industry-leading loyalty program. Guests can look forward to experiencing the first location in the US, avid hotel Oklahoma City- Quail Springs, when it opens later this summer, less than one year after the brand first launched. - TradeArabia News ServiceWHISTLER, B.C.Group of Seven nations moved closer to a trade war with the United States on Saturday, as six members of the exclusive club singled out their American partner over tariffs they warn have undermined open trade and shaken confidence in the global economy.

The groups highly unusual public rebuke of one of its own members called out the U.S. for hefty steel and aluminum tariffs the Trump administration imposed in recent days on its G7 friends.

U.S. President Donald Trumps tariffs are driving a wedge in the G7  and laying the groundwork for a potential clash among its leaders next week in Quebecs Charlevoix region.

Allies including Canada and the European Union are threatening retaliatory tariffs in hope of forcing Trump to back down from his position.

G7 finance ministers and central bankers crafted a message to Washington on Saturday at the end of a three-day meeting in Whistler, B.C. The gathering, meant to explore economic issues ahead of the leaders summit, featured discussions on trade that one minister described as tense and tough.

In the joint chairs summary, they asked their counterpart, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, to communicate their unanimous concern and disappointment to his boss.

Read more:

Ottawa files trade challenges over U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs

I love Canada, Trump says after lashing back at Canada over Trudeaus tariff criticism

From auto manufacturing to bourbon: How Canadians could see price increases because of Trump, Trudeau tariffs

Ministers urged the U.S. to quickly abandon the tariffs ahead of the leaders summit before the move causes deeper divisions within the G7.

The international community is faced with significant economic and security issues, which are best addressed through a united front from G7 countries, said the summary, agreed to by the ministers.

Members continue to make progress on behalf of our citizens, but recognize that this collaboration and co-operation has been put at risk by trade actions against other members.

Finance Minister Bill Morneau, who chaired the Whistler meetings, said even though the group found common ground on many subjects, G7 members are now forced to do whatever they can to convince Trump to move back from the tariffs.

We are concerned that these actions are actually not conducive to helping our economy  they actually are destructive. And thats consistently held across the six countries that expressed their point of view to Secretary Mnuchin, Morneau told reporters in Whistler.

I would expect that those sorts of sentiments will be passed along to the leaders round, and they will have a similar sort of discussion.

Morneau has called the steel and aluminum tariffs absurd, because Canada is by no means a security risk to the U.S. He warned the measures will destroy jobs on both sides of the border.

Frances Bruno Le Maire, the finance and economy minister, was more blunt in his assessment of the Whistler meetings, where ministers confronted Mnuchin.

It has been a tense and tough G7  I would say its been far more a G6-plus-one than a G7, said Le Maire, who called the tariffs unjustified.

We regret that our common work together at the level of the G7 has been put at risk by the decisions taken by the American administration on trade and on tariffs.

Le Maire said its now up to the U.S. to take action to rebuild confidence among G7 members  and to avoid any escalation next week during the G7 leaders summit.

That summit, which will be hosted by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, will also mark Trumps first visit to Canada as president.

On Saturday, Mnuchin told a news conference in Whistler that despite the differences in the room over trade, there were many areas the group was completely united on.

I think there was a comment out there that (this was) the G6-plus-one. It was not  We believe in the G7. Its an important group, Mnuchin said.

Im sure that the president looks forward to coming to Canada and meeting all the other leaders with many, many important issues going on throughout the world.

Read more about:MONTREALEric, an asylum seeker from southern Nigeria, crossed illegally into Quebec last February from the United States after leaving Africa to escape the threat of armed herdsmen.

He says the herdsmen from the north of the country threaten southern farmers and sometimes murder them.

A lot of killing has been going on, he told The Canadian Press during a break from French-language classes he is taking in Montreal.

The 35-year-old didnt want to use his real name out of fear it could negatively affect his hearing at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.

The herdsmen go to the community and they can slaughter as many civilians as they want, he said. We dont know who is sponsoring them and the government isnt doing anything about it.

Eric is one of 7,612 people who crossed illegally into the country during the first four months of the year, with 96 per cent of them entering Quebec, primarily through Roxham Road, a paved clearing at the forested border

In 2017, thousands of Haitians fled the United States for Montreal, but Nigerians make up a large number of would-be refugees crossing into Quebec this year, according to authorities and community organizers.

The increasing number of asylum-seekers from Nigeria  who mostly speak English instead of French  is helping to make immigration a top issue ahead of Octobers provincial election.

Both of the major opposition parties  the Parti Quebecois and the Coalition Avenir Quebec  argue the governing Liberals have failed to properly integrate newcomers by, among other things, not ensuring they learn French.

The Coalition wants to decrease immigration to the province by 10,000 people a year while the PQ has called for a full review of Quebecs immigration policies.

Opposition parties speak of high unemployment rates among immigrants and cite statistics that indicate only a third of newcomers register for free French courses and a third of those abandon their studies or just never show up.

Anait Aleksanian, head of a community centre that offers free, government-subsidized French courses for immigrants, says a lack of resources is not the problem.

Its never happened that we ask the (government)  that we tell them we have registrations for French courses and we are told the money isnt there, she said.

Immigrants can take courses in the morning, at night, on the weekend and even at work, she said.

We need to raise awareness and explain that if you want to integrate, you need to take the French courses, she added.

Premier Philippe Couillard says hes been told the majority of the recent asylum-seekers who have crossed illegally into Quebec dont want to stay in the province, but would prefer to move to more English-speaking parts of the country.

The federal government has to help people move where they want to settle, Couillard said. They need to also quicken the pace of treating asylum claims.

And they need to travel to the countries where these people are coming from and say that crossing illegally into Canada is not the right formula for immigration.

Back at Aleksanians centre, Eric, who made the journey to Quebec with his wife and two kids, said he wants to work in Montreal  as soon as he can speak French.

He was supposed to have a hearing on June 1 in front of the refugee board but, like most refugee applicants, his case was postponed indefinitely, meaning he could be in Canada for years before he learns his fate.

Sitting next to him was David  also not his real name  a 74-year-old Nigerian who has been waiting eight years to settle his status in Canada and eventually bring his wife and six children to the country.

In my case I tell them to forget about my age, said David, who used to be a taxi inspector in Nigerias Imo state. I am still strong, I can still work. I dont like to be given something. We are studious people and we are hard-working. We like to be on our own.

Both men are on government assistance but were visibly uncomfortable admitting it.

Eric, who comes from Edo state, received a masters degree in Britain and used to be a banker in Nigeria.

The Nigeria country is very hostile, Eric said, adding that someone who makes it there can make it anywhere. Thats the nature of the country. We are very determined.

Southern Nigerians are very ambitious, David said.

We like to struggle, we like education and to bring up our children to have a better life than we did, he said.

We dont like to beg.

Read more about:A Toronto jury has convicted Michael Ivezic and Demitry Papasotiriou-Lanteigne of first-degree murder.

Jurors retired Tuesday evening and returned to court Sunday morning.

The Crown had alleged Ivezic and Papasotiriou-Lanteigne conspired to murder the latters spouse, Allan Lanteigne, 49. He was bludgeoned to death on March 2, 2011 in the foyer of his Ossington Ave. home. No murder weapon was found.

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Ivezic, 57, and Papasotiriou-Lanteigne, 38, were having an affair and the prosecution alleged the pair wanted access to the victims $2 million life insurance policy so they could build a life together in Greece.

During his charge to the jury, Superior Court Justice Robert Goldstein told jurors they could convict both men of first-degree murder, but if they had reasonable doubt that Ivezic beat Lanteigne to death they would also have to acquit Papasotiriou-Lanteigne.

Ivezic, who had a wife and three children in Mississauga, claimed he was at the familys home when the attack occurred. Papasotiriou-Lanteigne was living in Greece, relying on Lanteigne as his primary means of financial support. Lanteigne, was a University of Toronto accounting clerk who also worked in catering. Papasotiriou-Lanteigne owned the Ossington Ave. home along with this aunt and uncle.

We always knew it was a domestic murder committed for the most heinous reason  pure greed, Toronto police Staff Sgt. Tam Bui said after the verdict Sunday. They killed Allan in the place where he was supposed to be safest.

Bui was on the homicide squad and worked the case with retired Det. Sgt. Dan Nielsen, who was also in court for the verdict.

Papasotiriou-Lanteigne, who has been out on bail, hugged his mother before being led out of court in handcuffs.

The two men receive automatic life sentences. They will return to court Thursday when the Lanteigne familys victim impact statements will be read in court.

In 2014, an Ontario Court judge discharged Papasotiriou-Lanteigne finding there was not enough evidence to convict him. However, the Ministry of the Attorney General signed a preferred indictment that reinstated the first-degree murder charge.

Toward the end of the trial, Gabriel Gross-Stein asked Goldstein to consider a directed verdict, arguing the Crown had failed to prove its case. Goldstein dismissed the request.

The trial, which began last November, ran several months longer than expected, in part, because Ivezic fired his lawyer halfway through the trial and represented himself.

Ivezic tried to push the theory that he had been framed and that Lanteigne was promiscuous and that there were other suspects.

Goldstein gave repeated instructions to Ivezic not to put irrelevant details before the jury.

The crux of the case was DNA found under the fingernails of Lanteignes right hand. Ivezic did not deny it was his.

But for months leading up to and during part of the trial, Ivezic argued his DNA was planted or that it got there as a result of innocent transfer.

The Crowns witness, a forensic biologist, testified Ivezics DNA did not get there through casual contact, such as a handshake, but as the result of close, physical contact.

Ivezic cross examined the witness for six gruelling days, prompting him to apologize to the jury for subjecting them to the DNA misery during his opening statement.

Ivezic floated various scenarios for the DNA, suggesting he and Lanteigne had touched the same surface. He also testified that he was friends with his lovers husband, and that the transfer may have happened when the two shared a fast-food lunch together days before the murder.

The Crown said there was no evidence Ivezic was friends with the deceased and that the lunch did not happen.

During a hearing about legal representation a year ago, Ivezic testified Lanteigne had popped a pimple on his nose over their lunch, and that that was how his DNA might have been transferred.

Testifying in his own defence in front of the jury, Ivezic made no mention of the alleged pimple popping incident.

For years leading up to the long-delayed jury trial, the two men challenged every aspect of the case, including allegations the Crown hid disclosure, tampered with police records and evidence, lied to the defence and the court and colluded with police.

Justice Ian Nordheimer, who case-managed the prosecution, found no evidence to support the allegations. Goldstein took over when Nordheimer was elevated to the Court of Appeal.

More than a dozen defence lawyers appeared on behalf of the accused men, who were also represented by court-appointed lawyers, known as amicus, at times when they were without counsel.The Toronto Police Service have lost one of their own; police service dog Odin died on Friday after a sudden illness, tweeted his handler and partner.

On Saturday, Toronto police Sgt. Mike Quinn announced on Twitter with a heavy heart the passing of his partner of five years, saying he will be sorely missed.

Quinn spent 24-hours a day, 7 days a week with his partner Odin, they trained together, worked together and lived together, said Staff Sgt. Darla Tannahill, a friend and colleague of both Quinn and Odin.

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She said Quinn is devastated, along with his entire family, both blood and blue.

We all know Odin, he was a superstar here, Tannahill said to the Star. Were all aching.

Tannahill took to Twitter to express her sadness and honour her lost team member.

We feel the same grief and loss when we lose an officer whether he has two feet or four feet, Tannahill said to the Star.

Our K9s are an incredibly important, valued and much loved asset of the Toronto Police Service ... They work for the thrill of it, for the praise from their handlers. They steal our hearts.Toronto police are investigating the possible abduction of a man in the Rexdale neighbourhood of Etobicoke.

Jammar Allison, 25, was last seen Friday at 10 p.m. in the area of Hwy. 427 and Rexdale Blvd.

Initially considered a missing person case, police now say he was abducted. According to investigators, Allison was escorted into a dark Caravan with tinted windows.

He has been described as six-foot, thin build, and was last seen wearing pink shorts, black T-shirt.

Police are asking anyone with more information to call 416-808-2300 or contact Crime Stoppers.It sounds like something out of a John Grisham novel.

Allegations of a dirty cop, and prosecutors trying to cover up and bring down the lawyer who exposed the corruption, according to a factum filed in court by defence lawyers Marie Henein and Christine Mainville.

Her Majesty the Queen vs. Leora Shemesh moves into a Kitchener court Monday in a case that will be closely watched by the legal community.

Shemesh is a well-known Toronto defence lawyer charged with perjury and attempt to obstruct justice in relation to her work as defence counsel in a Brampton drug case.

Pretrial motions start Monday before Superior Court Justice Gerald Taylor who will hear the case without a jury.

The Crown alleges Shemesh obstructed justice by claiming to have a nanny cam video showing Peel police Const. Ian Dann stealing money from her client Ha Trans residence, when no such video existed.

The Crowns position is that the alleged statement delayed or otherwise impacted other criminal proceedings and therefore obstructed justice. Defence lawyers in Brampton in other drug cases were obtaining adjournments in cases involving Dann while seeking to learn if, in fact, a video existed that could be used to challenge him.

The court faced an untenable situation having its trial list hijacked by accounts of a notorious nanny-cam video, says the factum prepared by Crown attorney Michael Carnegie who is prosecuting the case.

The prosecution also alleges Shemesh then perjured herself when, compelled to testify at a different drug case, she stated that she never told anyone that she had such a video. Instead of conceding some responsibility for the rising storm, she doubled down and distanced herself from any wrong doing, the Crown factum states.

Henein and Mainville are asking the judge to exclude Shemeshs testimony and stay the charges against her, arguing the Crown violated her constitutional rights against self-incrimination while trying to catch her out. The Crown is asking the court to dismiss the defence application.

The defence factum accuses the Crown of having an improper purpose for manufacturing Shemeshs testimony, namely, obtaining evidence for the purpose of incriminating her.

Any use of this testimony ... would violate the foundational rights against self-incrimination, protected by Section 7 of the charter and would result in an unfair trial, the factum says.

Shemesh was forced into the witness stand and compelled to give evidence after the Crown misled and made factual misrepresentations to a judge, the defence factum states.

Another defence lawyer, David Rose, now a judge in Newmarket, subpoenaed Shemesh to court in front of Superior Court Justice Bruce Durno to determine if the video existed. Shemesh, represented by Andras Schreck, also now a judge, failed to persuade Durno to quash the subpoena.

By the time she was forced to testify, it was already clear in writing and on the court record that no such video existed, the defence factum says.

The proposed examination and cross-examination was designed to trick and trap the applicant into saying something contrary to what the Crown believes she had told others.

Had the Crown informed the judge of critical information  that the officer admitted taking the money  there would have been no need for Shemesh to testify, it says.

According to the defence factum, the Peel officer involved in the drug case initially denied but then confessed to taking money from a safe in the Tran house without documenting it in any way, when confronted by a federal prosecutor.

The officer claimed that he returned the money to Tran in order to try to turn her into a confidential informant, a claim entirely disavowed by Ms. Tran and ultimately not advanced by the Crown, the factum says.

When the Public Prosecution Service formally raised the issue with Peel police, their central concern was the potential impact on its cases, not the need to address Cst. Danns misconduct, the factum says, adding that this is surprising since Dann was one of five Peel officers whom a Brampton judge found to have perjured himself in court.

The Crowns factum disputes the allegation that prosecutors failed to promptly and properly report concerns about Danns conduct to Peel Police.

In 2011, a Brampton judge slammed Dann and four other Peel drug squad officers for illegally searching a home and lying in court to cover up that one of them used excessive force against the accused.

The accused in that case was also Shemeshs client.

Read more about:A Toronto retirement home that initially said it did nothing wrong, after the body of an 82-year-old resident rotted in his room for days, has been cited for neglect and inadequate staff training.

After learning about Roy Gilletts decomposed body and his familys outrage from a Star story, the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority (RHRA) investigated to find out why staff at the Bill McMurray Residence did not thoroughly check on Gillett, who missed five days of scheduled meals in the homes dining room.

Gilletts body was found in his bed on May 23, 2017. An autopsy concluded he died from natural causes, specifically a heart attack, but also detailed advanced body decomposition.

The Bill McMurray Residence failed to ensure that the staff of the home did not neglect a resident, according to the regulators recent inspection report. As well, the home failed to ensure staff were trained in how to properly conduct checks of a residents safety, as per the homes process, the report said, adding that the home has taken corrective measures.

Gillett had a signed care agreement with the home, which was explicit that if two consecutive meals were missed, staff would be checking on his safety and may enter his suite to do so, the regulators report said.

The homes staff failed to conduct these checks of a residents safety over the course of five days. The resident was subsequently found deceased in his suite.

Gilletts son Ricky, 50, said the issue is not that his father died in bed from a heart attack, but that no one from the home checked on him before his body started decomposing. Ricky said the family had to have their father cremated because the funeral home said a casket could not contain the smell.

Bryce Taylor, spokesperson for the retirement home, had said staff did nothing wrong because residents live independently and staff were not required to knock on Gilletts door. He then said the home reviewed our routines and is using weekly meetings to discuss ways to avoid similar incidents.

After the violations were announced, Taylor said,  although there is currently no specific legislative obligation under the Retirement Homes Act and Regulations to conduct unit checks, the residence is committed to ensuring that such checks are performed.

Regarding the training violations, Taylor said the home has always conducted regular staff training and now has strengthened the documentation of that training, specifically with regards to systems that ensure the safety of our residents.

We continue to look for ways to improve our assistance to our tenants while retaining their independence and privacy. We respect the decision of the RHRA and, as always, appreciate their advice on ways to improve the residence.

No one from the retirement home or the Ontario coroners office reported the case to the regulatory authority, which licenses and inspects Ontarios 700 retirement homes.

The Retirement Homes Act does not require that all deaths be reported, but homes must report when they suspect an incident is the result of abuse, neglect, improper or incompetent treatment or care, a spokesperson for the regulator said.

After the Star published Gilletts story on April 12, RHRA spokesperson Helen Simeon said the regulator reached out to the coroners office to help them understand how to check if a home is a licensed home on our public register. The names of all licensed retirement homes are posted on the regulators website.

Dr. Roger Skinner, the regional supervising coroner, who did not handle Gilletts death, had said in an earlier interview that he was told the Bill McMurray Residence was not a retirement home. No one from the coroners office was available to comment on the regulators recent comments.

Gilletts son, Ricky, said his family is relieved the home is being held to account. We were glad to read that (the regulator) found we were right to complain about neglect. This was a treacherous time for us.

Ricky, his brother, Bill, and sister, Courtney, were regular visitors at the home near College and Dufferin Sts. Their father moved into Room 305 in January 2016 after a bad fall in his townhouse left him scared hed get injured again or die alone.

Ricky said he last spoke with his father on Thursday, May 18, 2017, just before leaving for the long weekend. He promised to bring his dad a carton of cigarettes the following Tuesday. When Rickys wife arrived in the lobby with Gilletts cigarettes that Tuesday, a resident told her to speak with management. Staff had just found Gilletts bloated body after the same resident questioned why he had not been seen for five days.

When his wife called to say his father had died, Ricky and his sister raced to the home. Once Gilletts body had been removed, his children insisted on going to his third-floor room. The lingering odour hit Ricky as he stepped off the elevator. I smelled something that Ive never in my life smelled and Ive never forgotten it  I could taste it. I can still taste it today, he said.

Gilletts children were angry their dads body suffered the indignity of decomposition and couldnt be given a proper funeral, dressed in his favourite Leafs jersey.

They pushed for an autopsy, although coroner Dr. David Giddens, in his written report dated Feb. 9, 2018, said the results would likely not move the family any further ahead with their question as to why the body was not found for three days. (The regulator said it was five days.)

The autopsy report gave a detailed description of Gilletts body: Putrefactive decomposition: bloating; foul odour; marbling; purging; skin slippage and vesiculation, green skin discoloration. Skin slippage means the skin slides off to the touch and vesiculation refers to fluid.

Ricky hopes the neglect finding means that retirement homes will keep a closer watch on residents.

What if someone was sick and couldnt leave their room? he said. Hopefully something like this will never happen to another family.

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Why was this Granddads body in his retirement home bed for days? Haunted family shares disturbing autopsy resultsOTTAWAVeteran Ottawa city Councillor Marianne Wilkinson wont make any predictions about who will take Kanata-Carleton in Thursdays provincial election.

I cant call this one, said Wilkinson, who has been involved in Kanata politics for decades.

Wilkinsons hesitance to pick a winner in the riding is understandable. There are plenty question marks in the newly-redrawn riding, which covers parts of the suburban community of Kanata as well as a number of more rural communities.

The riding was created in 2012, largely based on the former riding of Carleton-Mississippi Mills. The former riding had been as close to a safe Progressive Conservative seat as they come in this province, held by the PCs for more than a decade.

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That changed with Jack MacLaren. After a string of embarrassing gaffes made headlines, MacLaren was booted from the PC caucus by former leader Patrick Brown. MacLaren disputed Browns version of events, saying he left of his own volition to join the fledgling Trillium Party.

MacLaren is running under the Trillium banner this time around, creating the potential to split the conservative vote between himself and PC candidate Merrilee Fullerton, a family physician and lifelong Kanata resident.

Neither MacLaren nor Fullerton responded to interview requests.

For the New Democrats, John Hansen is making his third run for elected office. Hansen is an engineer by trade, has worked in Kanatas high-tech hub and lived in the community for more than 30 years.

Hansen said transportation and transit is one of the main issues he has heard while going door-to-door in the riding.

One thing that resonates with everybody, believe it or not, is bus service. Transportation in general, said Hansen, who ran for the federal NDP in 2015s ill-fated campaign.

Whether its theres too much congestion in my neighbourhood early in the morning, or I cant get a late bus because there isnt bus service, or I cant drive anymore, I need some transportation mechanism.

Kanata-Carleton and its predecessor ridings have not been kind to the New Democrats. But Hansen noted that in 2015, the federal Liberals were able to win it from the Conservatives. Hansen is hoping for a similar dynamic provincially: progressive voters coalescing behind one party, in this case the NDP, to unseat an unpopular government.

Were seeing a much stronger dynamic now that is very, very positive, Hansen said.

Kanta-Beaverbrook Community Association president Neil Thomson said its a possibility, but hes seen a lot of support for the two conservatives in the race.

I think people are going well jeeze, you know, weve got a split vote between either Ford or Jack MacLaren. And the way Jack was talking, he could see all these issues but couldnt promise anything, Thompson, who moderated an all-party debate in the riding, said.

But certainly theres very strong support  You see a lot of Jack MacLaren signs in the rural areas. But certainly in town, at the meeting, there was strong applause of Merilee Fullerton.

Thomson, who said he has no partisan affiliation, said that some conservative-inclined voters have expressed hesitation over putting PC Leader Doug Ford in the premiers office.

The people I talk to, Im the head of the community association, its like Merillee is OK, but Ford? I mean you get a lot of that.

Wilkinson, the longtime councillor, agreed.

Ive heard people say (to Fullerton) Id like to vote for you but I cant with Ford there, said Wilkinson, saying her best guess is that Kanata-Carleton will be a toss up between the Liberals and Conservatives.

The Green party has tapped Andrew West, a local lawyer, to run for the party. West said the No. 1 thing he hears from Kanata-Carleton residents on the doorstep is theyd like to vote Green  but likely wont.

Most voters are only seeing three choices. And they would like another alternative, but the question is if it will make a difference, West said in an interview.

That urban-rural split Thomson identified is pronounced in Kanata-Carleton. The community of Kanata was home to Ottawas once-booming tech sector, and was hit hard when that bubble burst in the early 2000s. Its been gradually recovering since the heydays of Nortel and Corel.

But the riding is also home to communities such as Carp and Dunrobin, smaller communities surrounded by farmland.

Unsurprisingly, the two sides of that split have different priorities. Stephanie Maghnam, the Liberal candidate for the riding, said rural residents are pushing for more support for the agricultural sector and a larger focus on rural affairs. For urban residents, Maghnam said, transportation issues such as extending Ottawas future light rail line to Kanata take priority.

We want to reach as many folks as possible, Maghnam said, when asked if her challenge was convincing those rural residents to vote Liberal.

The rural residents have been incredibly receptive to having a Liberal represent them. They know that we have a very good working relationship with our federal partners, our municipal partners.

When asked if the Liberal partys poor showing in province-wide polls is making things more difficult for her, Maghnam, an entrepreneur and former reporter, said the Liberal organization in Kanata-Carleton is still strong.

The provincial polls are not reflective of whats happening here on the ground, Maghnam said. Here in the Ottawa area, the Liberals continue to have a very big stronghold here, and in Kanata in particular with the new electoral boundary, we went Liberal in the 2015 (federal) election.

This is going to be a very interesting election to pay attention to here.

Read more about:HAMILTONIn many ways the riding of Hamilton WestAncasterDundas tells the story of this election.

The issues that matter to voters here are those that matter across the province  health care, affordability  yet it is not at all clear that these issues, rather than something more visceral, will make the difference.

A long-time Liberal stronghold, the riding now seems to be the scene of a tight race  a stark message that there is no safe Grit seat in a campaign defined by a desire for change.

Liberal MPP Ted McMeekin was first elected in the recently redrawn riding in 2000 and since then has repeatedly won re-election by large margins. But this time around, he said hes running his campaign as if hes in dead last.

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Hamilton West appears to be just the sort of riding Liberal Leader Kathleen Wynne was trying to save when she acknowledged on Saturday that she would not be premier after the June 7 vote and called on Ontarians to elect as many Liberal candidates as possible to stop any other party from winning a majority.

McMeekin is hoping voters do just that. He said at a candidates debate last week he expects the NDP to win a minority government, but is optimistic hell continue to represent Hamilton West, running a localized campaign in the face of Wynnes unpopularity.

If voters do choose change in Hamilton West, here, as elsewhere in the province, the kinds of change on offer could hardly be more dissimilar.

The campaign of Ben Levitt, the Progressive Conservative candidate, like that of his party as a whole, has been plagued by scandal. His nomination remains under scrutiny by Hamilton police, who are investigating allegations of fraud and forgery. Levitt, a 26-year-old constituency officer for a Conservative MP, said he was interviewed by police in February, and the criminal probe has hardly ever come up during his campaign.

People say to me, Im glad youre still a candidate and good for you for continuing,  Levitt said, adding the election feels like a two-way race between the PCs and the NDP, the latter of which voters are terrified will win.

A lot of people want the PCs to get in power so we can restore some fiscal accountability in this province. Doug Ford and our plan is resonating with voters, Levitt said.

Yet some residents in the area say it is the prospect of a Tory victory that fills them with terror.

Resident Trish Johnston said she is alarmed by the investigation and dreads the possibility that Doug Ford will become premier. Wheres the trust and transparency? she said.

Levitt was absent at an all-candidates meeting Thursday at a church in Dundas, feeling ill from door knocking in the heat all day, he said.

When a moderator conveyed this news to an audience of more than 160 voters, it was met with a loud chorus of boos. NDP candidate Sandy Shaw, McMeekin and Green Party candidate Peter Ormond spoke about health care, the environment and housing without him.

The other leading change option is first-time NDP candidate Shaw, a veteran of the non-profit sector, who like many of her fellow Dippers is an untested politician whose campaign seems to have quietly picked up momentum.

A couple of weeks ago she and her team were handing out signs on a busy main street on Hamiltons west mountain, she said, as car after car honked and drivers gave them the thumbs up as they passed by.

We just stood on the corner and waved, and thought is this real?  Shaw said, crediting NDP leader Andrea Horwath, who has held the Hamilton Centre riding since 2007.

The NDP had success in 2014, winning three of four Hamilton ridings, despite PCs winning in the surrounding areas of Niagara and Halton Region.

Shaw and McMeekin both said theyre banking on support from conservative voters who want to prevent PC leader Doug Ford from winning and who may be put off by the controversies surrounding Levitt.

Read more about:OTTAWAMike Schreiner is realistic about next Thursday.

He knows the Green party wont miraculously form government. He admits its an uphill battle to even get a single Green MPP through the doors at Queens Park.

But a breakthrough with voters here, an increase in the partys vote share there? Schreiner believes that could be the key for the Greens to start picking up momentum.

We have two key objectives in the campaign. One is to elect our first Green MPP or MPPs  And then also we want to see our provincial vote total go up as well, the 48-year old father of two teenage daughters said Thursday.

When you elect that first Green MPP, the next election  weve seen additional Greens elected, Schreiner said, citing the partys experiences in British Columbia and Prince Edward Island.

And so getting past that hurdle where people know Greens can get elected.

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For the first time since being elected leader in 2009, Schreiner looks closer than ever to clearing that hurdle.

Schreiner is running in Guelph, a provincial riding long dominated by former Liberal cabinet minister Liz Sandals. Sandals decision not to seek re-election appears to have opened up space for the Green party.

A recent Mainstreet Poll put Schreiner in the lead with 31.7 per cent of the vote, followed by NDP candidate Agnieszka Mlynarz following closely at 28 per cent. Schreiners lead is within the 688-person polls margin of error, however.

Itll likely be a tight race, especially with the New Democrats remaining strong in provincial polling and the possibility of strategic voting.

Were really pushing hard against strategic voting, Schreiner told the Star.

One of the messages weve been really trying to deliver in this campaign is youll never get the government you believe in if you dont vote for the party you believe in.

So who is Mike Schreiner, and does he really have a shot at becoming Ontarios first Green MPP?

Born a small-town Kansas boy who grew up on a family farm, Schreiner moved to Ontario in 1993 to follow his wife, Sandy. In 1995, he opened his first organic food business in Guelph, later going on to found a second. He also co-founded the Local Food Plus non-profit.

Schreiner took over the Green party in 2009, after longtime former leader Frank De Jong stepped down. During his leadership, Schreiner saw the Greens share of the provincial vote increase from 2.9 per cent in 2011 to 4.8 per cent in 2014  down from the partys outlier performance of 8 per cent in 2007, but moving in the right direction.

The Greens platform centres around the environment and social services. It includes changing Ontarios cap and trade system with a carbon fee and dividend system  where a cost is imposed on carbon-based fuels at the point of extraction or import, and that money is distributed directly to Ontarians.

The party is also pushing for aggressive investment in clean tech, lowering payroll taxes for small businesses and non-profits to assist with higher minimum wages, guaranteed basic income and expanded mental health services. The platform includes a sizable redirection of money to transportation and transit infrastructure.

And the Green leader is hoping his pledge to do principled politics will resonate with voters in an election that has occasionally veered into downright nastiness.

Schreiner said hes often heard that if he were running for a more established party  the status quo parties, he calls them  hed already be in the legislature. But he said that the Greens most strongly reflect the causes he believes in, and hed rather be elected the right way, not the easy way.

I believe deeply in honesty in politics, and I believe the Green party reflects my values, Schreiner said.

Anything thats worth fighting for is hard. So I am fighting for a livable future for my children, I am fighting to tackle climate change and address income inequality, social justice issues and improving our democracy.

Whether Schreiner will fight those battles inside Queens Park or from the outside will be up to Guelph voters on June 7.

Read more about:Etihad Airways has announced plans to introduce a new scheduled service linking Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Barcelona, Spain, starting on November 21.

The route will initially be operated five times a week by a two-class Airbus A330-200 before becoming a daily operation from March 31, 2019.



Barcelona will become the second city in Spain served by Etihad Airways, complementing the airlines existing daily service to the capital Madrid. The new link will provide business and leisure travellers with convenient timings to travel between Abu Dhabi and Barcelona, also providing seamless onward connections through Abu Dhabi to major cities in the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, China, Japan, Korea and Australia.



Peter Baumgartner, chief executive officer Etihad Airways, said: As one of the largest unserved markets from our Abu Dhabi base, Barcelona - a hub of culture, commerce, tourism, education, fashion and science, has witnessed a significant increase in travel demand from the emirate, and from across our wider network.



We are now delighted to announce the first direct link between these two important global hubs. We are confident it will prove very popular with UAE and Barcelona-based customers, allowing us to extend our acclaimed inflight service, hospitality and flair to this vibrant Mediterranean city, and to build on the flourishing cultural and commercial ties between the UAE and Spain.



The Catalonia region is immensely popular with business and leisure travellers alike. With 7.5 million inhabitants, beautiful mountain scenery and a 214 kilometre Mediterranean coastline, the region is rich in natural parks and protected areas. Barcelona is one of the worlds most visited cities, famed for its unique culture, Gaudi architecture, history and cosmopolitan lifestyle.



Trade between the UAE and the Catalonia region has enjoyed significant growth in recent years, with food, chemicals, motor vehicles, energy and pharmaceuticals being the main industrial sectors.



Barcelona has recently been ranked by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) as the city which hosted the most international association meetings in the world in 2017, overtaking Paris, Berlin and Vienna to claim first place for the first time since 2004. Etihad Airways will increase frequency to the city to meet passenger demand for the Mobile World Congress, which takes place from February 25-28, 2019.



The new service is being launched in time for the start of the 2018 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Middle Easts largest sporting event, held from November 23-25 at the capitals 5.55 kilometre Yas Marina Circuit.



Barcelona is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world and an important source market of cruise traffic for Etihad Airways. Abu Dhabi has also emerged as one of the leading cruise destinations in the Arabian Gulf region, with over 329,105 cruise tourists visiting the city during the 2017 season. The new direct service between the two cities will ensure Abu Dhabi remains a leading player in the regions cruise travel ambitions.



Etihad Airways operates an extensive codeshare partnership with Air Europa (UX), on the Spanish airlines scheduled services from Madrid to Barcelona and 18 other major European cities. - TradeArabia News ServiceBreaking up with partisan politics can be hard to do.

Thats what Carol MacKinnon discovered when she told Ontario election officials in Barrie that she wanted to decline her ballot  effectively voting for none of the above.

She was met with blank faces.

I was kind of shocked. I had to explain the difference between a declined vote and a spoiled vote, MacKinnon said.

They didnt know what I was talking about.

MacKinnon voted early by special ballot at the Barrie-Innisfil returning office before advance polling began last week , which may have further muddled the matter as there is a different process for collecting those ballots. Elections Ontario confirmed officials in Barrie had to consult a manual about the right to decline and to be sure proper procedure was followed.

Ontarians eligible to vote in the June 7 election have the right to formally forfeit their vote. If you arent impressed by any of the candidates, parties or platform promises on offer, you can officially send the message that youre just not into them by declining your ballot, and Elections Ontario will count it separately from spoiled or unmarked ballots in the official results.

Declining is different from spoiling a ballot because it distinguishes voter intent. You can spoil a ballot by doing things such as drawing a happy face on it, crossing out a candidates name or writing in a joke contender like Mayor Quimby. Spoiling a ballot leaves room to wonder if someone was uninformed. Declining a ballot is an unequivocal statement that the voter is unsatisfied with the choices.

Only Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan allow electors to officially decline. There is no option to do so federally.

MacKinnon is a dyed-in-the-wool Progressive Conservative but she doesnt support its leader, Doug Ford, and she wanted her voice to be heard.

If you spoil your ballot it doesnt count, and I thought, geez, well then there must be another way. Thats when I started to look it up on the Internet and I found out about declining and thought oh-ho! Thats a good way, because its counted, MacKinnon said.

Officials initially told her the option to decline didnt exist, she said.

After they looked into it, MacKinnon was concerned officials wouldnt tally her declined vote properly so she voted for the incumbent, Liberal MPP Ann Hoggarth.

My intent was to go in to decline and I thought, they dont know what the devil to do with the (declined) ballot, MacKinnon said.

She filed a formal complaint with Elections Ontario.

People need to know their (declined) vote counts.

A spokesperson at Elections Ontario said there was added confusion because special ballots are collected differently. Citizens who arent able to make it out to advance polls or on election day can vote by special ballot, which MacKinnon did. Special ballots are all lumped together and then separated and tabulated on polling day.

We understand that the voter was concerned that the election officials may not have been following proper procedure for declined special ballots, but in fact, they were.

Its not the first time Elections Ontario has faced flak over the right to decline. In 2014, a record 29,937 Ontarians declined their vote, the highest ever since Elections Ontario started keeping track in 1975 and representing 0.6 per cent of all who turned up at the polls.

Elections Ontario also recorded 22,885 rejected ballots and 12,124 unmarked ballots in 2014, when overall turnout ticked up to about 51 per cent, from 48 per cent in 2011.

At the time, the surge was attributed to social media awareness campaigns. There were reports that poll staff were confused when citizens tried to decline in 2014.

Retiree Clifford Tattersall said in the last election an official told him to spoil his ballot instead.

But I insisted that my ballot was to be declined, Tattersall said. At that point the person who handed me that ballot shouted from one end of the room to the supervisor, hey, this guy wants to decline his ballot. What do I do?

I was shocked, he said.

Declining is different from leaving a ballot blank because it involves a voter actively informing officials they are choosing to opt out. When a poll worker hands you your ballot, you can immediately hand it straight back to them, and say out loud, I decline. The official then marks the ballot as declined and places it in a separate envelope.

Duff Conacher, co-founder of Democracy Watch, has previously threatened to take Elections Ontario to court for not adequately promoting the right in its voter education and information material, including advertising, pamphlets and on its website.

Its totally patronizing to say the only thing you should do as a voter is go and hold your nose and cast your vote for one of the candidates, even if you dont like any of them, Conacher said.

Champions of the scratch vote argue it could potentially boost turnout because unhappy voters would be more likely to show up to the polls if their dissatisfaction counted.

Elections Ontario noted it has updated its website to better provide information on declined ballots.

Conacher wants to take it a step further and include space for electors to write a sentence or two explaining why theyre protesting. The idea is that it could force political parties to be more accountable and responsive to what citizens want.

For example, he said, if 5 per cent of voters chose none of the above because they didnt like what the parties were promising on climate policy, they could tell them so. Four years later, parties may try to woo those dissatisfied voters to their camp by tailoring their platform.

But no voter is a political island and the election must go on in a democracy. Some argue declining is just a way to vent steam and does not contribute to the political outcome.

Instead of using the ballot to say what you want, youre saying what you dont want  which still leaves someone else in the drivers seat when it comes to picking your representatives at Queens Park, said Dennis Pilon, an associate professor at York University who focuses on electoral systems.

Usually thats the last resort. People are turning to this because theyre so frustrated, he said.

The larger problem behind the protest vote is the lack of power a citizen feels to meaningfully participate in democratic dialogue.

The problem is inequality, that is the root of our democratic malaise, Pilon said.

Democracy isnt like a consumer market, its not a question of everybody getting exactly what they want. Democracy is more about being able to participate meaningfully in the discussion and the decisions.ROMULUS, MICH.Delta Air Lines is investigating the death of an 8-year-old pet dog during a layover at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, en route from Phoenix to Newark, N.J.

The Pomeranian, called Alejandro, was found dead Wednesday morning in its carrier in a cargo facility at the airport, southwest of Detroit in Romulus.

When he landed here in Michigan, he was alive at 6:30 a.m., and then at 8:20, he wasnt moving and it just doesnt make any sense to me, owner Michael Dellagrazie told WDIV-TV. We lost a family member. Thats exactly what happened, and somebody has to be responsible for it. He was in their care and they didnt take care of him.

Delta told WXYZ-TV that a flight attendant checked on Alejandro about 6 a.m. The attendant checked again about two hours later and the dog was dead.

The airline is conducting a thorough review of the situation to find out more about why this may have occurred to ensure it doesnt happen again, Delta said in a statement.

The Dellagrazie family is being represented by attorney Evan Oshan. He also represented the owners of a French bulldog puppy that died earlier this year after a United Airlines flight attendant ordered the dogs carrier to be stowed in an overhead bin.

I think this stretches beyond just pets, Oshan told WXYZ-TV. I think this is the way that airlines, commercial airlines in general, treat people. They are treating people horribly.

United Airlines stopped its pet-shipping business in March after several dogs were put on wrong flights, but plans to resume shipping pets as cargo in July. United said in May that it only will accept dogs and cats. It will ban 25 breeds including pit bulls, boxers, bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats. The changes dont affect pets in the cabin.

The French bulldog that died in March was not part of the cargo program.

In 2017, 18 animals died on United, three-fourths of all such deaths on U.S. airlines. United cited its willingness to carry riskier breeds barred from other airlines.The students watched as the sick puppy was eaten alive by a snapping turtle in a Preston, Idaho, junior high classroom in early March, state prosecutors alleged in a Friday filing.

Robert Crosland, a biology teacher at Preston Junior High School, has been accused of misdemeanor animal cruelty, The Associated Press reported.

Preston, nestled in the states southeastern corner, was the setting for 2004s indie cult film Napoleon Dynamite. But the incident brought new attention to the small town of just over 5,000. Calls and vague threats directed prompted authorities to bolster police presence at schools in the district, the AP reported in March.

Read more:

Idaho science teacher reportedly fed puppy to snapping turtle in front of his students

Florida teacher accused of drowning raccoons during class placed on leave

The allegations surfaced after several parents came forward.

A mother of two boys at the school told the Preston Citizen the puppy was terminally ill and was given to Crosland by its grief-stricken owner; she said Crosland fed the dying puppy to the turtle in a graphic demonstration of the circle of life for his students.

Preston School District 201 superintendent Marc Gee called the incident a regrettable circumstance but said it occurred after school hours, not in front of a full class, KTVB reported.

While the incident sparked worldwide outrage, some parents expressed frustration over the ordeal and have defended Crosland.

Farahlyn Hansen, the mother of the two boys, told the Citizen her sons were more upset about the outrage among school staff leveled at the teacher.

I am not upset. I felt like it was the more humane thing for Robert to do than to just leave it (the puppy) to die, Hansen told the paper in March.

Despite what some defenders called a humane killing of a puppy, it also led to the turtles death. The incident triggered an investigation, and state wildlife authorities seized and euthanized the turtle after determining it was a non-native species, the AP reported.

The case was handed off to the Iowa attorney general after Franklin County Prosecutor Vic Pearson claimed a conflict of interest, according to the news wire.

Crosland and the attorney generals office could not be reached. The school did not return a request seeking comment.

If convicted, Crosland would face up to six months in jail and a $5,000 fine.

The feeding incident came before last months other controversial wildlife classroom killing. A Florida teacher was accused of drowning two raccoons and a possum as high school students watched. He concluded they were likely culprits in the killing of chickens kept by his class.

But authorities declined to file charges after determining there was no intent to torture or harm the raccoons, which are considered nuisance animals.

By then, teacher Dewie Brewton III had taken an early retirement amid intense public scrutiny.LONDONBritish Prime Minister Theresa May joined survivors, victims families and emergency workers at a memorial service Sunday to mark a year since a deadly vehicle-and-knife attack brought terror to London Bridge on a warm Saturday night.

Eight people were killed and almost 50 injured when three Daesh-inspired extremists ran down pedestrians on the bridge, then stabbed people at packed bars and restaurants in nearby Borough Market, one of Londons main foodie hubs. The three attackers were shot dead by police within minutes.

The rampage came two weeks after a bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester Arena that killed 22 people.

More than 700 people gathered Sunday inside the centuries-old Southwark Cathedral, nestled between the bridge and the market on the lively south bank of the River Thames.

Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn said he hoped the service of remembrance helps our healing.

Read more:

Terrorist incidents in London leave at least six dead, 20 injured: police

Italian mother of London Bridge attacker says he was radicalized in Britain

5 people in custody over London Bridge attack as footage is released

Love is stronger than hate. Light is stronger than darkness. Life is stronger than death, he said. It was true a year ago. It is as true today.

After the service, families of the dead planted an olive tree on the cathedral grounds, using compost made from floral tributes left by mourners after the attack.

May, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and some of the injured laid flowers beside the bridge before a national minute of silence at 4:30 p.m. The words #LondonUnited were due to be projected onto the bridge at dusk.

In a statement, the prime minister paid tribute to the bravery of first responders and others, including Ignacio Echeverria, a Spanish man who tackled the attackers with his skateboard and was killed.

May said the fact that seven of the eight victims came from outside Britain  from France, Spain, Australia and Canada  was a reflection of our great cosmopolitan capital, whose energy and values brings together people from across the world, and a tragic reminder that the threat from terrorism transcends borders and impacts us all.

Our resolve to stand firm and overcome this threat together has never been stronger, she said.

The London Bridge carnage was one of a string of attacks in Britain in 2017 involving Islamic or far-right extremists that killed 36 people in all.

Britains official threat level from terrorism currently stands at severe, the second-highest of five levels, meaning that an attack is highly likely.

We expect the threat from Islamist terrorism to remain at its current, heightened level for at least the next two years, and that it may increase further, the government said Sunday. It said the threat from extreme-right violence is growing.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid said he plans to recruit 2,000 new security service officers to help combat the threat.WASHINGTONPrime Minister Justin Trudeau is overreacting to U.S. President Donald Trumps steel and aluminum tariffs, Trumps top economic adviser said Sunday.

Larry Kudlow said the tariff battle is a mere family quarrel and doesnt have anything to do with our friendship and our long-standing alliance with Canada.

To say that this is an attack on Canada is not right, Kudlow, director of the National Economic Council, said in an interview on Fox News.

I didnt say it was an attack on Canada. That was what Justin Trudeau, the prime minister, said, Fox host Chris Wallace responded.

Mr. Trudeau: I think hes overreacting, said Kudlow. I dont want to get into the middle of that. As a fine friend and ally of the United States  nobody denies that. But the point is we have to protect ourselves.

Trudeau didnt quite say that the tariffs were an attack on Canada. But he did say they were an affront given Canadas long-standing military alliance with the U.S. The official basis for the tariffs is national security.

Taking their anti-tariff case to a U.S. audience, Trudeau appeared Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press and Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland appeared on CNNs State of the Union. Both of them described the tariffs as an insult.

The idea that we are somehow a national security threat to the United States is quite frankly insulting and unacceptable, Trudeau said.

Freeland said, This is a really sad time for us. We are hurt and were insulted.

She made a direct appeal to Americans. What you are saying to us and to all of your NATO allies is that we somehow represent a national security threat to the United States. And I would just say to all of Canadas American friends, and there are so many: Seriously? Do you really believe that Canada, that your NATO allies, represent a national security threat to you?

Trump imposed the tariffs on Canada, Mexico and the European Union after previously granting temporary exemptions to all three. He has linked the tariffs on Canada and Mexico to the status of North American Free Trade Agreement negotiations, suggesting they could be avoided if a NAFTA deal were reached.

It may be worked out. These tariffs might go on for a while or they may not, Kudlow said on Fox.

Trudeau has announced retaliatory tariffs he says will stay in place as long as Trumps tariffs do. He has also launched a challenge at the World Trade Organization.

Trudeau said Mexico and Canada are showing flexibility on NAFTA issues Trump cares about  auto manufacturing rules with regard to Mexico and access to Canadian agriculture markets for U.S. dairy and other products  but that Trump continues to insist on a sunset clause that would automatically terminate the pact in five years if all three countries did not re-endorse it.

What company is going to want to invest in Canada if, five years later, there might not be a trade deal with the United States? And that, quite frankly, is probably part of the whole point of the United States to say, Well no, we dont want anyone investing in our NAFTA partners. We want people investing in us. But thats not the way trade works, Trudeau said.

Asked what he feels Trump wants from him in imposing the tariffs, Trudeau said, I dont know. At another point in the interview, he noted that Trump prides himself on being unpredictable from time to time.

Trump is scheduled to make his first visit to Canada as president this week to attend the G7 leaders summit in Quebec. In a highly unusual statement on Saturday, finance ministers for the six other G7 countries expressed their unanimous concern and disappointment over the tariffs.

Read more:

I love Canada, Trump says after lashing back at Canada over Trudeaus tariff criticism

Opinion | Hebert: A defining week for Justin Trudeau

Ottawa files trade challenges over U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs

Read more about:The deadline to legalize marijuana may have been pushed back, but establishing an amnesty for pot convictions remains urgent.

Marijuana legalization has had a winding road. After 14 months of debate and discussion, Bill C-45 goes before the Senate on Thursday for a final vote; if all goes well, it goes back to the House Commons before receiving royal assent.

The flaws in the marijuana legalization process are deeply troubling. When Bill Blair, the former Toronto Police chief and Liberal MP, was put in charge of the file, there was much chin-scratching. Hed headed up a police service that disproportionately arrested Black people for marijuana possession, and there appeared to be a contradiction in asking him to lead the process of making pot legal.

A Toronto Star analysis of a decades worth of data from 2003-2013 found that Toronto police arrested 11,299 people whose skin colour was noted  and who had no prior convictions  for possessing up to 30 grams of marijuana. These individuals were not on parole or probation when arrested. Black people comprised 25.2 percent of arrests when they only made up 8.4 percent of the citys population according to the 2006 census. This disproportionality falls firmly within the era when Blair was head of Toronto police.

The jailer, it seemed, was put in charge of correcting the injustice.

That correction has not come about. If anything, the contradictions that the Bill Blair appointment surfaced have only deepened.

Because he is not the only former cop with an apparent conflict of interest. A former RCMP head, another ex-Toronto police chief, a former police chief from Abbotsford, B.C., a former head of the Vancouver drug squad  theyre but a few of the many ex-police now involved in marijuana-based businesses.

While police are set to profit from legalization, a key part is still missing from the existing legislation: amnesty for people with convictions related to pot. The Liberal government is quick to acknowledge the existing harms of marijuana as an illegal drug. At a conference in Montreal last month, Bill Blair said, I have to tell you from experience, I know a ton of people  and Im sure many of you people have had this experience in this room  as a result of a youthful indiscretion or some choices they made when they were younger, they have this criminal record.

And yet, they have not added in amnesty as a key part of their legalization plan.

In fact, theyve said that amnesty is something they might consider, but only after legalization has been completed. A group called the Campaign for Cannabis Amnesty has put together an amendment to the existing legislation that will grant amnesty for simple possession. Lawyer Annamaria Enenajor, who is with the group, told NOW Magazine, Its really disheartening to see how people who have had their lives torn apart (are) completely left out of the conversation.

Many of those people are Black and Indigenous. Estimates put the number of affected people between half a million to one million. Yet their government remains unconcerned about their prospects while enriching the police officers who arrested them.

Marijuana legalization is set to become the law, but for far too many people the injustice remains.With budget top of mind for Ontario voters, its time to talk about whos winning and whos losing in our economy. The evidence couldnt be clearer: the divide between the rich and poor continues to widen. And many of us who are doing well simply have no clue how poor our neighbours are.

Or maybe the problem isnt that we dont know, its that we think living in poverty is a lifestyle choice. We blame people who are poor for shoddy budgeting or getting themselves into bad situations.

At Community Food Centres Canada, we know this couldnt be further from the truth. Every day, we see people like Nicole, who emigrated here as a young single mom and worked as a housekeeper, a telemarketer, and a caregiver but, with rent and child care, still couldnt make ends meet.

While charities like Community Food Centres provide programs and supports that help people like Nicole, the real solutions for poverty and food insecurity lie in the hands of government.

Thats why we need to pay close attention to the parties policy ideas and ask ourselves if their positions on issues like housing, social assistance, child care and wages will help everyone  or further undermine the health and well-being of low-income Ontarians.

Which is why were so concerned about the Progressive Conservative resolution to cancel the minimum wage increase to $15 per hour, replacing it with a tax cut for low-income workers. This will leave the nearly 9 per cent of Ontarians making minimum wage even farther outside the fold, and could cut yearly incomes by up to $712.

Thats bad news for the 595,000 Ontario households that cant afford to put food on the table. Despite the exhausted adage that people living in poverty need to pull themselves up by their bootstraps, nearly 60 per cent of those households rely on wages as their primary source of income.

Its a problem for us all because the costs associated with poverty are downloaded onto our overburdened health care system, our economy, and, by association, onto Ontario taxpayers. Research shows that food insecurity significantly increases health care costs, and that income inequality slows growth. Were doing our economy no favours by leaving our neighbours in the dust.

For many of us, a yearly earnings reduction of $712 may not sound like a big deal. But the difference between a $15 minimum wage and a $14 minimum wage (even with a tax cut) is about equal to three months worth of nutritious food  no laughing matter for those who often go without.

So lets make sure that, in addition to the economy, equality takes a starring role in this upcoming election.

When politicians in this critical election come knocking on your door, I hope youll tell them that, regardless of political stripe, we need them talking about ideas and policies that bring us together rather than pull us apart. We are all better off when we stand together.Heaven forbid one should touch a political third rail and use the word tax in the same sentence as online streaming behemoths such as Netflix.

But though it doesnt use the dreaded T-word, thats exactly what a new report from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission seems to be recommending Internet service providers, wireless companies and foreign streaming services pay to help fund production of Canadian cultural content.

And why not?

Traditional broadcasters such as Bell, Rogers, Shaw and Videotron already contribute 5 per cent of their gross revenues to the Canada Media Fund.

Foreign-owned streaming giants like Netflix and YouTube should not be exempted.

Nor is the CRTC the first to recommend that streaming services pay their fair share. Liberal members of the House of Commons heritage committee last year released a report calling for Ottawa to impose a 5-per-cent tax on broadband Internet services as a way to level the playing field.

The CRTC suggests that broadband providers make contributions of 1 per cent of their revenue to content. That would cost less than 50 cents on an average broadband bill of $47, says commission chair Ian Scott.

Call it what you will, but a tax by any name is even more important in light of the fact that revenues for traditional broadcasters are declining as consumers drop cable channels in favour of online services. Indeed, Netflix is now the highest-rated video service in Canada among kids and young adults, the CRTC said.

The government should listen to the CRTC and the heritage committee, and go much further by following up on a recommendation made this spring by the committee on international trade.

That group, dominated by Liberal MPs, recommended that the government levy sales taxes on companies that provide online services in Canada the same way it taxes firms that are physically based here.

The Internet giants have too long ducked paying their fair share of both content creation and taxes  and its costing Canadians dearly.

John Anderson, author of a study for the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives that called for a tax on Internet media services, says if Netflix collected HST as Canadian-owned media companies do, it would pay an estimated $89 million a year on revenues of about $685 million. And if it contributed 5 per cent of its gross revenues to the Canada Media Fund, that would mean $34.5 million more per year to make sure Canadian content is produced, distributed and promoted.

Unfortunately, the government been reluctant, to say the least, to impose taxes on the Internet content giants or require them to make mandatory contributions to the media fund.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised in 2015 not to bring in a so-called Netflix tax. He wasnt alone; all three federal parties took the same position, reflecting a popular view that anything that potentially raises the cost of access to the Internet is bad.

Indeed, after the CRTC report was released the consumer advocacy group OpenMedia came out with guns blazing. This proposal is a disastrous idea that will raise monthly bills and force the most vulnerable Canadians off-line, it argued.

Still, political views seem to be changing as the impact of the online services gets even larger. The NDP, for example, is changing its tune. When you read this report, you realize that if you still want Canadian content on our screens for the coming years, everybody has to chip in, says the partys heritage critic, Pierre Nantel.

Hes right. Its time the government levelled the playing field between old-line broadcasters and the new online services.

Read more about:Trudeau strikes back in tariff war, June 1

I was in the middle of purchasing new kitchen appliances, and had narrowed my decision to a couple of U.S. brands when I learned of the new tariffs. My reaction was similar to most Canadians who are baffled by President Donald Trumps decision to slap tariffs on his countrys largest trading partner.

A country of roughly 35 million people is trading step for step with a country of 350 million people  $550 billion dollars worth of goods are flowing into Canada each year from the U.S. and $550 billion worth of goods are flowing from Canada into the U.S., in a trade relationship that is admired around the world.

I will now choose appliances manufactured in South Korea and will consider very carefully every future purchase. Ill look for alternatives to items produced in the U.S. and at food labels as well. Come on Canada. Lets show the Americans that we are tough, have traded fairly and wont be bullied.

Dennis Chadala, Mississauga

Maybe someone should take, or drag, U.S. President Donald Trump into a Canadian supermarket and point out how many products on the shelves are sourced from the United States, many of which were formerly, pre-NAFTA, made in Canada.

Albert Speisman, Toronto

When the prices go up on U.S. imports, were prepared to do battle by proudly buying Canadian. In fact, were already reading labels for country of origin and making our choices based on Canadas national, economic security. Weve raised the Maple Leaf on our porch today.

Marie Prins, Colborne, Ont.

It has often been asked why Russian President Vladimir Putin would back Trump in his election bid? Now we know. Ever since Putin was ejected from the G8 group of world leaders, he has wanted to break up that group. Now Trump has taken the steps Putin could have only hoped for. He has made the G7 a new group of G6+1 and has labelled NATO and NORAD members as security risks to the U.S. Putin has to be feeling very pleased that he now has a Western World economically, militarily and politically as insecure as Russia has become  all thanks to the election of Trump.

Brian Moore, Brantford, Ont.

Donald Trump has thrown down the gauntlet and its time we stood up to him. Theres talk of cancelling the G7 meeting in Quebec next week. Lets instead have a G6 meeting and disinvite the U.S. Trump also wants the world to co-operate with trade sanctions against Iran. Lets make it clear that we will not do that. India has already announced it will not abide with any sanctions against Iran. They have said they do not acknowledge country sanctions, only UN sanctions. Why cant we do the same?

Rajiv Taneja, Toronto

The Toronto Star has been telling readers relentlessly since Donald Trump rode down the escalator on June 12, 2015, that he is a madman. Trump imposed duties on two items: steel and aluminum. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau retaliated by slapping import duties on hundreds of items, some of which are basic necessities. Who is Trudeau punishing, Trump or ordinary Canadians? Makes one wonder who the madman is.

Pat Biondi, Montreal

Read more about:Kudos and a question for column on hero, Letters, June 1

Columnist Shree Paradkar and some of your readers want Mamoudou Gassamas Muslim faith to have a central place in the coverage of his extraordinary rescue of a French toddler. They feel slighted, fretting that had he been a bomber or homicidal truck driver claiming membership in a terrorist group and shouting praises to Allah, his affiliation would have been noted. Well yes, with religion being the motivating force in such horrible cases.

It is not central, perhaps not even incidental, to this story. Mr. Gassama displayed pure human goodness and courage. While rare, such actions transcend religion, occur pretty much across all populations, and have scant to do with the petty criticism and bitterness expressed by some.Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh has announced the promotion of Italian Chef Nicola Rossi, previously chef de cuisine, to executive sous chef.



Chef Rossi, who graduated from the Istituto Tecnico Luigi Nervi, has more than 15 years of professional culinary experience. Prior to joining Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, he worked at a number of acclaimed restaurants in Italy such as the Ristorante 668, Osteria Pane & Salame, Palazzo Cattaneo and Ristorante Zahir.



"I'm looking forward to this new chapter in my culinary career," said Chef Rossi. "I'm happy that my skills will be put to use and I will be able to extensively expand my scope of experience through this new role and responsibilities.



Chef Rossi will be working hand on hand with executive chef Ahmed Fawzy, ensuring that all food and beverage offerings at the hotel are top-notch. This Ramadan, as part of his role, chef Rossi ensures to renew and present an extensive selection of mouth-watering dishes during the hotel's renowned Ramadan Iftar Tent buffet that includes global and local specialities in addition to a variety of cold and hot mezze offerings, an extensive sushi station, an enticing salad bar, an authentic homemade pasta station and much more. For this occasion, Chef Rossi has invested his outstanding skills and gastronomic experience to ensure every dish is a haven of taste, and Iftar is nothing short of spectacular.



He also aims to introduce his guests to the rich Italian history through his dishes that will certainly take them on timeless cultural experience. He added: In the kitchen the entire team works together to deliver excellent food quality and strive to be authentic and trendy at the same time with concepts and dishes that are culturally connected to guest experiences. - TradeArabia News ServiceIn a few short days, Ontario voters will head to the polls to elect our next government.

This has been an election for the history books, and there is a great deal at stake.

In the wake of #MeToo and #TimesUp, all across the province weve seen an influx of young women entering the political arena. These women have bravely put their names on ballots, knocked on thousands of doors, and brought fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the political discourse.

Ive met many extraordinary women on the campaign trail, dedicating their time and energy to impacting the outcome of the upcoming election  many of them for the first time. Feminists who care deeply for our communities, working tirelessly together to ensure the next government continues to build on and protect the gains seen under the leadership of Premier Kathleen Wynne.

Wynne proactively planned, prioritized and moved the dial on issues uniquely impacting women.

She partnered with researchers and front-line workers providing supports for victims of gender-based violence in a sincere effort to ensure the government was providing sufficient support.

Her focus resulted in much-needed increases to sexual assault crisis centre budgets as they struggle to meet local demands for services, more safe beds for women and families in need of transitional housing as they take the necessary steps to rebuild their lives following abuse, and improvements to supports in rural communities while addressing a need for culturally appropriate and safe services.

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She met with student leaders to support their work on campuses across the province, creating funded sexual violence prevention and support strategies. While there is no way to measure the exact impact of her #WhoWillYouHelp and #ItsNeverOk campaigns, we can be certain that they contributed to sparking much-needed conversations across industries about the role we each play in shifting a toxic culture and providing better supports to victims of gender-based violence.

She empowered her caucus and cabinet to identify how each of their portfolios and initiatives could contribute to her womens economic empowerment and gender-based violence prevention agenda. Stemming from this, her team piloted and expanded free legal advice for survivors of sexual assault, made great strides toward addressing the ever-persistent gender pay gap with legislation that came into effect this past April, and set mandatory targets to ensure more women have a seat at the table through provincial board and agency appointments.

Her record on measures put in place to combat a culture of harassment and violence against women is unprecedented. These are all important steps forward, and there is much more work ahead.

We dont know exactly what Doug Ford intends to do if elected as premier, as hes chosen not to produce a fully costed platform. However, from the commitments made on his website we can see that he intends to take the province backward on many of these gains.

We know he has promised to turn back the clock on the modernized sexual education curriculum, which includes a critical focus on consent and healthy relationships. He has further committed to rolling back legislation passed with the aim to ensure women are able to access abortion services without facing harassment.

Im extraordinarily proud of the work accomplished under Wynnes leadership. She has led with a refusal to settle for the status quo with a transparent, visionary and activist government. We cant afford to go backward.

We often get caught up searching for the real thing in politics. We want the Jed Bartlet of political leaders  authentic, charismatic, principled, brilliant and witty.

The truth is, there is no perfect candidate. Political leaders are regular people, like you and me, striving for better in both themselves and their communities.

I place political leaders into two categories  those who believe themselves to be dignitaries wielding power, and those who prove themselves as functionaries for progressive change.

Wynne has proven herself to be a true functionary in Canadian politics.

Despite her best efforts, Ontarians have made it clear that they want change.

Come Thursday, I hope Ontario will elect a government committed to building on her legacy rather than looking for ways to repeal her hard-fought work in support of the women of this great province.

Tiffany Gooch is a Liberal strategist at public affairs firms Enterprise and Ensight and an advocate for increased cultural and gender diversity in Canadian politics.

Read more about:A week from now we may have one party leader left standing, Premier-elect Andrea Horwath.

Kathleen Wynne will almost certainly follow convention and resign on election night. Doug Ford may try to defy convention and struggle to hang on. Like Trump he may believe that the Ford Nation Party will be able defend him against the party establishment. He is wrong, but his departure may inflict more wounds on an already badly wounded party. Blowing a 20-point lead is not an achievement any leader can survive.

There are several lessons for all the parties. For the Liberals it is that they should have listened to the party elders who tried until the end of the year to persuade the premier that she should consider retiring. She was perfectly within her rights to say that she was determined to finish her priority goals in a second term.

She may also have believed the reasons for the nudge may have been her gender and her being openly gay. It would be understandable if she reacted strongly in defence of the right of women like her to reach high office and be supported in good times and bad  as the party would have done for a man. In that she would have been right, and she might have been wise to have friends say so publicly on her behalf.

Sadly, she was wrong in terms of re-electing a Liberal government.

I am not sure that sexism or homophobia are high on the list of even hidden motives for the disillusionment that many progressive voters feel toward her. It was surely more normal voter anger that she was not fighting adequately for them and their families. She was carrying on her back the burden of some very bad policy decisions over 15 years, as well. But the depth and imperviousness of the anger at her has been real and known for nearly two years. At some point an apology is not enough. A leader bringing down their party needs to pass the baton.

For the Tories, if they are defeated, the silver lining may be a return to a more genuinely progressive conservative party for the first time in a generation. Red Tories, young and old, sitting out what may be another hard-right leaders losing campaign have, like the traditional leaders of the U.S. GOP, begun to muse about how to take back our party. A woman of that tradition as PC leader would almost certainly have delivered them a victory this time, and could do so in the future.

New Democrats should thank their elders for blocking the stillborn coup attempts against Andrea Horwath following her last disappointing campaign. Politics is a craft, it takes thousands of hours of practice to become good, learning the lessons of hundreds of early gaffes to become a pro. Horwath is an incomparably better campaigner in this election than she has ever been before. She oozed the confidence of a leader comfortable in her skin in recent weeks, with none of her earlier moments of hesitation.

Wynne stayed too long, even if she was unfairly savaged for issues far beyond her control. Ford was not ready for the NHL, perhaps will never be.

A lesson for all three parties is that they each must rethink their leadership selection process. It is surely madness to allow anyone who can buy enough votes to build a majority, made up of people who may have no stake in the party, or any investment in the wisdom of its leadership choice, to determine who gets the job. If, as in the case of Fords dubious victory, there is also more than a whiff of foul play, it is even more foolish.

Democratically elected delegates chosen by ridings remain the wisest balance of partisan needs when choosing a leader. You still broaden the base with new members, but you dont lose control of who wins to outsiders  some of whom may be Facebook fictions. Surely the parties can devise a modern form of a digital delegated convention.

Robin V. Sears, a principal at Earnscliffe Strategy Group, was an NDP strategist for 20 years.

Read more about:VANCOUVERA killer whale has been rescued from some fishing gear off Vancouver Island, and one marine mammal specialist says the freed orca delighted his rescuers by putting on a show.

Paul Cottrell with Fisheries and Oceans Canada says his team got a call early Thursday morning after a Salt Spring Island resident spotted a buoy being dragged around by a northeast Pacific transient killer whale.

Rescuers from Vancouver went out to help and arrived to find the adult male orca caught in some commercial prawn-fishing gear.

Cottrell says the team put some tension on the buoy the animal was attached to and the orca rolled out of the entanglement.

Once the whale was free, it began to swim off, and Cottrell and his team followed to make sure it was completely free of the gear.

He says the orca then began breaching and slapped the water with its tail several times.

It was quite a show he put on. Then he took off further north, Cottrell said, noting that the reason for the display is unclear, but could have been due to the animal feeling relief.

This isnt the first time this particular whale  known as T077A  has been spotted getting into trouble.

The animal has been spotted through the Strait of Georgia for many reasons, and has a bad habit of playing with floats and ropes, Cottrell said.

Rescuing an orca is a dangerous job because the animals can weigh up to five tonnes and are very active.

The majority of the time, at least when Ive been involved with entangled large whales, they dont realize that youre helping, so its very difficult, Cottrell said.

But this whale seemed calm and allowed rescuers to get close enough to assess the situation, he added.

The animal didnt seem to have any injuries as it swam away, but Cottrell said researchers will use drones and photos to keep an eye on his progress.

A Fisheries and Oceans Canada hotline (1-800-465-4336) set up to help marine wildlife in distress off B.C.s coast gets about 20 calls a year for entangled cetaceans, including killer whales.

Cottrell said anyone who sees a whale in distress should call the number immediately.

If we know right away, we can get there and, hopefully, help the animal and do it in a timely manner, he said.

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Read more about:VANCOUVERThis years edition of an annual meeting of B.C.s legal minds had the needs of Indigenous people at the top of its agenda.

Indigenous leaders and experts from British Columbia's justice system met this week for the 10th Justice Summit, an annual event held by the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General to discuss innovations and improvements to the justice system.

Doug White, co-chair of the B.C. Aboriginal Justice Council, said that the inclusion of Indigenous people in justice reform has been needed for a long time.

The justice system does not provide real justice for Indigenous peoples. What was discussed was the creation of a shared understanding about the reality of the problems of the criminal justice system, he said.

White said that there is a  low level of trust in the justice system among Indigenous people, due to the high numbers caught in the system.

There is massive over-representation of our people in jails and in care, he said. More than 60 per cent of children in care in B.C. are Aboriginal, and 30 per cent of the people incarcerated are Aboriginal. It is a real crisis.

Read more:

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But White is hopeful that the summit will result in real reforms to the system. It is just one of the meetings that will inform the B.C. Indigenous Justice Strategy Memorandum of Understanding, signed by provincial lawmakers in September 2017. The MOU will focus on a number of reforms, including reconciliation, decreasing the over-representation of Indigenous peoples and making improvements so that services are culturally relevant and appropriate.

When the MOU was signed, Attorney General David Eby said in a statement that there is a need to make changes to meet Indigenous peoples needs.

We know that the justice system is not working well for Indigenous peoples and we have heard the clear message from leaders: we must do things differently. This is the first step in working together to develop a justice system that is culturally relevant and meets the needs of these communities. The funding allows us to work collaboratively toward practical solutions and actions.

The summit will also inform the 11th justice summit in November, where participants will consider proposals to move forward on this weeks recommendations.

Read more about:VANCOUVERMore electric cars, sustainable farming, community-owned power: these were just some of the ideas brought forward by youth at a Metro Vancovuer forum on climate change strategies.

On Saturday, Metro Vancouver invited youth aged 14 to 35 to share their ideas on the regions Climate 2050 Strategic Plan.

Climate change is something I think about every day, said Shakti Ramkumar, a fourth-year geography student at the University of British Columbia. All of my friends, everyone I know is feeling the urgency of climate change right now.

Metro Vancouver is in the process of developing the Climate 2050 Strategic Plan, which aims to reduce carbon emissions and prepare the region to deal with the impacts of global warming. The 30-year plan uses a climate lens towards policies in order to reach the regional target of reducing greenhouse emissions by 80 per cent from 2007 levels by 2050.

The youth meeting was just one of almost 20 consultations Metro Vancouver will have with various regional groups.

Ramkumar said that there were a few key ideas that youth brought forward again and again in the discussions: the need to have Indigenous representation in developing climate policies, the need for community consultation, and the idea of community-owned energy. She said another major point is to continue involving young people in the discussion.

We need to keep involve youth in the policy-making process, and really co-create with young people. I think everything we discuss today can have a tangible impact, Ramkumar said.

Grade 8 student Oscar Price said that while Vancouver is already moving in the right direction with respect to climate change, there are a few other things that would make a big impact to reduce emissions.

I think we should reduce the amount of energy we use per person, and increase the usage of electric vehicleswe arent using them enough and it would make a big difference to climate change.

Roger Quan, director of air quality and climate change at Metro Vancovuer, said that youth have to be included in developing the strategy because they will be the ones to deal with the impacts in the future.

The youth audience is particularly important because ... they will be most impacted by climate change, said Quan. Its the youth that will be the benefactors of our climate change policies.

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Read more about:Editors note: This is the first of two articles in a series of six that will highlight the businesses awarded by Deluxe Corporations Small Business Revolution economic development corporate program. The businesses featured in this series will be the main focus of a reality show on Hulu, YouTube and Deluxe Corp.s websites. These articles will run each Sunday through Friday, June 22, when streaming reality show Small Business Revolution  Main Street will hold a wrap party.

ALTON  A whole new world opened for the Lovett family when Deluxe Corporation selected the familys namesake restaurant as one of its chosen six businesses to receive expertise and funding for improvements and re-branding.

Owners Merry Ann Lovett, and her son, Brad Chavours, mentioned renovation and expansion as goals for Lovetts Snoots, Fish, Chicken & More almost exactly one year ago to The Telegraph, when the Deluxe Corp.s Small Business Revolution concept was yet unknown to #OurAlton. Now, Lovett and Chavours business is re-named Lovetts Soul Food since the Revolution began.

The streaming reality show Small Business Revolution  Main Street began its on-site filming in Alton in April, first with Lovetts Snoots, Fish, Chicken & More, at 2512 College Ave. in Upper Alton, before the soul food restaurant debuted its new name, which is the name that now appears online and social media for the business.

Its really exciting. It really feels great to have someone who wants to make your dreams come true, Lovett said recently to The Telegraph.

The dream of a successful restaurant not only is Lovetts dream, but that of her family.

More Information If you go: What: "Small Business Revolution - Main Street" Cleaning Party for Lovett's Soul Food When: 9 - 10 a.m., Wednesday Where: Lovett's Soul Food, 2512 College Ave., Alton Info: Open to the public, who are encouraged to attend. The "Small Business Revolution - Main Street" crew will be filming during this event. See More Collapse

Decades ago, Albert (1925-2011) and Ophelia (1925-2004) Lovett moved to Southeast Illinois from Arkansas. The late family patriarch held a vision for such a venture as the one led by Lovett and Chavours. Last summer, his 16 of 19 children, three of whom are deceased, recalled how Albert Lovett commanded his farm and livestock at Godfreys historic Rocky Fork settlement, hoping those resources would one day be the source for a family restaurants meat and produce.

He would be so excited, Daddy would be so excited, Lovett said. He saw it, he knew this would happen. He knew the most economical way to go was raising your own food  he had veggies, he had meat  for a restaurant. Voila, we have a restaurant. Brad wants a farm, but Im too old to have a farm!

Albert Lovett, who worked at Duncan Foundry for years and was a strong union man, instilled self-sufficiency, worked hard and provided greatly for his family, Aaron Lovett recalled previously to The Telegraph. Aaron, whose mother, Ophelia, instilled the magic of music in the Lovett family, is his parents oldest son, a Vietnam War Purple Heart veteran and a musician, who led vocals in the 1970s band The Syndicate of Soul.

My dad had a passion for his farm because thats how he was raised  on a farm, he said. He knew a lot about agriculture, traditions passed down. Most of the stuff he knew, you cant find it in books. It gave him a sense of refuge away from all the city stuff, a way to relax.

In the city of Alton and surroundings, Albert also ran a trash collecting business. But, hed rather be sowing dirt, raising animals and giving away the abundance of vegetables he produced.

This is a dream of my dad, Albert Lovett, who was an entrepreneur himself, Merry Lovett said. Talk about a legacy! The restaurant was part of his vision. Our inheritance is what he did day-to-day.

Lovett already received some of her wish-list items through the Small Business Revolution campaign, including a pair of top-of-the-line stainless-steel freezers and a matching refrigerator. Those will be installed when Lovetts Soul Food will be closed from Monday, June 11, through Wednesday, June 13, for remodeling.

A cleaning party  open to the public  will take place from 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, which will be filmed by the Small Business Revolution  Main Street crew.

Theyre so sweet, theyre all so sweet, Lovett said of the crew, including Deluxes Chief Brand and Communications Officer Amanda Brinkman, who could be sighted in town this week, when she is scheduled to arrive in Alton.

Brinkman brought expert Chef Deborah VanTrece from the acclaimed Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours in Atlanta, Georgia, to meet with Lovett and her son a few months ago. This year, Zagat named VanTrece one of its 15 bad-ass chefs in the country. VanTreces Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours Facebook page describes its food as Soul Food Elevated, but that did not deter Lovett from standing by her familys recipes, handed down to Albert Lovetts children.

No way were changing that, Lovett said of the closely-held family recipes served at Lovetts Soul Food.

But, Lovett said, she will incorporate VanTreces tips about how to display the Lovett products and sauces. VanTrece also added her expertise about ways for Lovetts Soul Food to expand its menu, including more barbecue choices.

Lovetts Soul Food will debut its new logo and remodelled restaurant to the world when the third season of Small Business Revolution  Main Street gives a sneak peek at its wrap party.

Reach Jill Moon at 618-208-6448 and Twitter @jill_moon.Editors note: This is the first of two articles in a series of six that will highlight the businesses awarded by Deluxe Corporations Small Business Revolution economic development corporate program. The businesses featured in this series will be the main focus of a reality show on Hulu, YouTube and Deluxe Corp.s websites. These articles will run each Sunday through Friday, June 22, when streaming reality show Small Business Revolution  Main Street will hold a wrap party.

ALTON  Sham Pooches Grooming, now re-branded as Shampooches Dog Grooming LLC came a long way since it relocated from Milton Schoolhouse.

The singularly-owned canine salon moved last year from the start-up, small business incubator to its own standalone space at 1735 Main St. in Upper Alton. Little did owner Alicia Jeffreys know that some short months later shed be involved in a Revolution.

Its been fun, a learning experience, a lot of work on my end, but I think it will be worth it, Jeffreys said recently to The Telegraph. Ive learned a lot, as far as how to run a business.

Jeffreys already received top-of-the-line equipment, which was on her wish list.

My needs were probably a lot different from other places, she noted. I received really cool grooming tables, a couple blow dryers, Im upgrading my sign, and a lot of overall upgrades to our grooming equipment and physical upgrades to my building.

Jeffreys dream just became bigger through Deluxe Corp.s Small Business Revolution program.

More than anything, it was a dream of mine to own my own salon, she recalled, because I wanted to work hard, as a good example for my children.

Jeffreys is the mother of two young daughters: Erica, 11, who will turn 12 years old this month, and Makenzie, 7.

Seeing what Im doing encourages them, and lets them know they are able to do something like this, also. They are women, they are powerful and they can do whatever they set their minds to do.

Shampooches Dog Grooming also recently became accepted into the Illinois Professional Pet Groomers Association  the only groomer in the Alton area accepted into that association.

I signed a code of ethics for whatever is right and the most safe for the dogs in my care, Jeffreys explained. It holds you to a higher standard of sanitation and cleanliness in your salon.

Shampooches Dog Groomings renovation and remodelling is complete. It was closed for a week from May 21 through May 28, during the dog grooming business busiest season.

I just got back to work from my renovation, Jeffreys said Friday. Its been busy and taking that week off, its been a really busy week.

But, now Jeffreys is prepared more than ever before.

The upgrades have made my job more efficient, Im faster, she said. Everything I have makes my job easier. Its less strenuous on my body, easier on my dogs and just more effective.

Besides Jeffreys, two other groomers are employed at Shampooches Dog Grooming. And, because of Small Business Revolution, they benefited from industry expert Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins, brought in by Deluxes Chief Brand and Communications Officer Amanda Brinkman. Bishop-Jenkins was deemed as the first master groomer in Illinois.

She is incredible and knows everything about grooming, Jeffreys said. She teaches grooming seminars around the world. Whenever I say everything, I mean it, she knows everything.

In fact, Jeffreys is visiting Bishop-Jenkins Chicago salon this week for additional mentoring.

Shampooches Dog Grooming appropriately occupies the space of a former veterinary office. Jeffreys grew up on a farm with animals and always loved them. Since her childhood, Jeffreys dreamed of working with animals as an occupation.

We always had dogs growing up. I loved playing with them, and grooming them whenever I was little with brushes, pretending to groom, she recalled. I started volunteering at a grooming salon when I was sixteen, just as kennel help, and I fell in love with it. Ive never wanted to do anything else.

Along with her daughters, Jeffreys family members include 1-year-old beagle Jessie Ann and 3-month-old pit bull Flo Jo.

My dogs have middle names, noted Jeffreys, who recently adopted Flo from Stray Rescue of St. Louis, of which its mission is to make St. Louis a city of compassion for companion animals.

No-kill Stray Rescue is out on the streets daily, taking a progressive, proactive approach to establishing a permanent resolution to the stray companion animal problem through rescue efforts, sheltering, outreach, education and collaborations, encouraging responsible pet guardianship.

There are some dogs who hate certain things, usually the toenails, Jeffreys said. But, thats what I like about not being a corporate groomer, we are not as rushed on time. We take the time to build our trust with the dogs, and the dogs trust with us. So, they feel a little bit more comfortable. All of my dog clients are excited to walk through my door to get groomed.

To make an appointment or for more information about Shampooches Dog Grooming call or text the salon at 618-419-3833 and follow its Facebook page.

Reach Jill Moon at 618-208-6448 and Twitter @jill_moon.TheTechnical Sales/ Support Executive should be an enthusiastic sales professionalin a predominantly office-based role. This person will sell our products toexisting and potential customers, working as part of a team managing ageographic territory. We are looking for someone who can provide a high-qualitycustomer experience. The role entails both commercial and technical aspects ofthe sales process. This person must have a passion for selling and should alsobe able to organize and plan the sales activity. Additionally, the candidatemust possess technical skills in order to provide first line support for ourclients in Uganda and escalate to the respective head of department. There willbe extensive contact with customers, primarily by telephone and e-mail but willinvolve some customer meetings both in our facility and on-site visits. Youwill work as an equal team member within the sales department to manage salesfor Uganda, maximizing our sales opportunities therein. You will be qualifyingand responding to our sales leads, organizing quotations, sales information,demonstrations, samples and evaluations, and recording sales processes. Youwill from time to time be required to provide basic support to our clients andemployees. Support includes training, hardware maintenance and fixing basicsystem bugs. The exact nature of your involvement in support will be determinedon a need basis by the respective HOD.Actress Courteney Cox (L) and musician Johnny McDaid of Snow Patrol attend The 64th Annual BMI Pop Awards, honoring Taylor Swift and songwriting duo Mann & Weil, at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel on May 10, 2016 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for BMI)

British singer Johnny McDaid (L) and partner US actress Courteney Cox pose on the red carpet on arrival for the BRIT Awards 2018 in London on February 21, 2018. / AFP PHOTO / Tolga AKMEN

Courteney Cox (L) and songwriter Johnny McDaid attend The 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards at the STAPLES Center on February 8, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/WireImage)

Courteney Cox and musician Johnny McDaid attend the Los Angeles Special Screening of "Just Before I Go" at ArcLight Hollywood on April 20, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Angela Weiss/Getty Images for Darin Pfeiffer Consulting)

British singer Johnny McDaid (L) and partner US actress Courteney Cox pose on the red carpet on arrival for the BRIT Awards 2018 in London

Johnny McDaid (L) and actress Courteney Cox attend the Amazon premiere screening for original drama series "Hand Of God" at The Theatre at Ace Hotel on August 19, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Amazon Studios)

Courteney Cox (L) and songwriter Johnny McDaid attend The 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards at the STAPLES Center on February 8, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

Jennifer Aniston is reportedly set to be the maid of honour when her pal Courteney Cox ties the knot to Johnny McDaid.

The 53-year-old actress is gearing up to marry the Snow Patrol rocker, and it has been reported that she is relying on her former Friends co-star and close pal Jennifer for support as she readies herself for walking down the aisle.

A source told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: Courteney and Jennifer are thick as thieves and they have got even closer in recent months.

Courteney wouldnt want to walk down the aisle without Jennifer by her side. They have a very strong friendship.

Jennifer, 49, and Courteney have been pals since they starred on the hit sit-com together more than two decades ago, and the move would come after Courteney - who was previously married to David Arquette - was chosen to be maid of honour when Jennifer married her now-estranged husband Justin Theroux in 2015.

Courteney and Johnny, 41, plan to wed in the guitarists home in Derry, Northern Island, before travelling to Malibu, California, for a lavish second ceremony in front of their friends.

Meanwhile, the Cougar Town star - who has 13-year-old daughter Coco with her former husband David - recently admitted she would be open to expanding her brood by having a child with Johnny, even if it means carrying another womans egg in order to conceive.

She said: "I mean, I could carry someone else's egg. I may be one of the older people doing it, but I would love to, with Johnny that is. I know it's crazy, but I would.

The brunette beauty is 12 years older than Johnny and she admits she used to worry that the age difference would be a problem, but she's adamant that it's never been an issue for the guitarist.

She said: "External beauty isn't even on his radar. I used to worry about the age difference, but I don't think it matters. He appreciates beauty, but it's deeper than that. It's deeper than that for me too, but luckily I find him gorgeous and extremely sexy."At your service: The vision of wedded bliss Jilly Cooper had in mind when she wrote How to Stay Married

Almost 50 years ago, Jilly Cooper wrote a guidebook aimed at the recently married. How To Stay Married had advice on sex, rows and in-laws, and even though the author had only been married to her late husband, Leo Cooper, for seven years when she wrote the book, it quickly became a bestseller.

How To Stay Married was Jilly's first book, written long before she became known as 'queen of the bonkbuster'. It wasn't as enduring as Riders or The Man Who Made Husbands Jealous, but it transpires that the author knew a thing or two about the staying power of a marriage: the book was re-released in 2011 to coincide with the couple's golden anniversary.

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Jilly penned a new foreword for the book, written from a 50-year perspective, but first she re-read How To Stay Married - and "nearly died of horror".

"What a smug, opinionated, proselytising little know-it-all I was back then," she wrote. "How could I have insisted that 'a woman should be grateful her husband wants her', and suggested that if a wife refuses her husband sex more than two days running, then she has only herself to blame if he's unfaithful."

The author laid down the law in How To Stay Married but, 50 years later, she admitted that she didn't always practice what she preached.

She advocated "total honesty about money", yet she regularly smuggled new clothes into her wardrobe. She said no wife had the right to "go to seed" in the first edition, only to admit that she becomes "a positive hayfield" when she's approaching a deadline.

And before you ask, she regrets that there "wasn't a word for husbands on how to exert self-control to avoid a beer belly".

As the author says herself, How To Stay Married was written in a different age.

"No one had dreamt up 'new men' or paternity leave, and two-career marriages were a rarity, particularly if the couple had children," she explained.

How To Stay Married, like any 50-year-old guidebook, is old-fashioned, unapologetically sexist and, at times, downright offensive. But it's also warm, witty and - whisper it - wise.

Expand Close Popular couple Leo and Jilly Cooper / Facebook

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While a lot of the advice now seems anachronistic, it's worth remembering that this book was progressive for its day. Jilly urged would-be Stepford Wives to use a launderette if they could afford it, just as she suggested that transcendent sex was more important than a ship-shape home.

The author's wedding advice is as relevant now as it was then. "Dope yourself with tranquillisers by all means," she advised brides-to-be, "but watch the champagne later." And don't worry if you get bored on honeymoon "when you have nothing to do for a fortnight, except each other".

Her classification of men with a wandering eye has also stood the test of time. According to Jilly, they are either 'open gazers' or 'secret doers'. The former is "just testing his sex appeal like gorillas beat their chest". The latter takes the next, high-risk, step.

Her own husband had a very public affair in the Nineties. The couple survived the transgression and were devoted to one another until Leo's death in 2013. Nonetheless, Jilly cut out some of the more "hubristic" advice on infidelity from the second edition of the book.

"We've had marvellous patches, and patches so bad that they rocked our marriage to its foundations," she wrote in the forward for the new edition. "But I've come to realise that if you can cling on like a barnacle during the bad patches, your marriage will survive and, in all probability, be strengthened."

Most married people will agree with this particular piece of advice, but what about the wisdom she imparted way back when? Is it still relevant today? Let's take a look

Expand Close Happy family: Jojo Moyes visits Jilly Cooper and her husband Leo at their home in the Cotswolds / Facebook

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Sex

It's important to remember that Jilly's first book was written long before Nancy Friday, Ann Summers and Carrie Bradshaw came on the scene. Male pleasure took an unfair precedence in 1969 and there was no Twitter mob ready to take the author to task for writing: "If you amuse a man in bed, he's less likely to bother about the mountain of dust underneath it."

Jilly was absolutely right, though. Sexually satisfied men are much more forgiving. She just failed to mention that sexually satisfied women are too.

 SEX

"In any good marriage," wrote Jilly, "sex should get better as the years go by, even if you indulge in it less often."

Sage advice, but it's worth remembering that it was penned before online pornography, sleep deprivation and stress-related low libido became the banes of our sex lives.

 And more sex

"The first essential is to be honest," wrote Jilly. "Don't pretend to be in ecstasies of excitement if you are not, or your partner will assume he is doing the right things to please you."

It's hard to argue with this advice, especially since most of us received our formative sex education from Jilly's books.

The division of labour

The curious thing about How To Stay Married is that its author can go from being thoroughly modern to wincingly backward in the space of a single chapter. "If the wife is working, the husband must be prepared to give her a hand," she opines. "Equally, it's up to the wife to say when she needs help."

This seems fair and progressive, until she asserts that "men detest seeing women slaving in the house" and suggests that working women arrange to work from 8.30am to 4.30pm so that they can rush home to clean, iron and cook before their dear husband arrives home. No wonder Valium became known as Mother's Little Helper during the Sixties

In-laws

Nothing has changed in the 50 years since Jilly opined that in-laws can be troublesome. "As my mother-in-law once pointed out to me," she wrote, "nobody is ever good enough to marry one's children."

However, her suggestion for softening them up is probably best avoided in the #MeToo era. "The husband's best tack is to flirt with his mother-in-law," she suggested. Really?

Compliments

"Tell your husband when he looks handsome," wrote the author. "And even if you are the type of man who can't tell a discarded false eyelash from a centipede, compliment your wife on her outfit."

It's hard to argue with this advice almost 50 years later.

Flattery will get you everywhere, now, just as it did then. And yes, a large proportion of men still have no idea what those spindly things on the bedside table are.

Infidelity

How to Stay Married offers lots of practical pointers for detecting infidelity - for both husbands and wives. Men are told to be wary if their wife "doesn't look dismayed when you say you're going to America for three weeks". Women are advised to raise suspicion if their husband "looks happy on a Monday morning and miserable on a Friday night".

Still, it might be helpful if Jilly didn't lay the blame for a husband's infidelity squarely in the lap of his wife. She said men with moody, demanding or frigid wives are more likely to stray, but nowhere in the book does she look at the male shortcomings that might make a wife cheat.

DIY

"One of the great myths of marriage - heavily fostered by television commercials featuring smiling young couples up ladders - is that home decorating is fun when you do it together.

"It isn't," quipped Jilly. "It's paralysingly boring and caused more rows in our marriage than anything else."

This advice was penned long before the rise of flatpack furniture, which just goes to show that some things never change.

Christmas

Jilly has some timeless advice for the bone of contention that is Christmas Day. Instead of arguing over whose parents you're going to spend Christmas Day with every year, she suggests that couples "get a large dog and say you can't leave it." Bingo.

Humour

A wicked sense of humour is as important as wild sex for Jilly. The sign of a healthy marriage, she writes in the new edition of the book, is "creaking bed springs - as much as from helpless laughter as sex".

She also believes that humour is the best way to defuse a row. "My husband once, mid-row, put both feet into one leg of his underpants and fell over. I went into peals of laughter and the row was at an end."

It's a sweet vignette that suggests the author always has a wry take on a situation, and it makes it that little bit easier to take How To Stay Married with a pinch of salt.Who was John Abraham? A demure filmmaker with long, unkempt hair and piercing, intelligent eyes, who pioneered the wave of realistic Malayalam films in the 70s and 80s? A man of stories, an unfathomable nomad, rebel and alcoholic, who emerged one of the finest avant-garde directors in Indian history? Perhaps his sister Susan Abraham's words in a memoir describe him best: Everything that the world knows about John Abraham is right and wrong."

It speaks volumes about his legacy that, 31 years since the end credits of his life rolled, he lives on as a man, a myth, and a story unto himself. Here is a particularly illuminating anecdote: John was waiting for his flight to Italy, and the famous Flaiano film festival, where his 1986 film Amma Ariyan (Report to mother) was to be screened. He decided to go after clarifying that the organisers would arrange his food, accommodation and travel. Some of his friends arrived at the airport to see him off. One among them was Venu, his cinematographer (and later an acclaimed director in his own right). Venu quickly scanned Johna wraith with bedraggled hair and untameable beard, a bag slung over his shoulder, dressed in a loose trouser and a borrowed coat. Something was missing. No shoes! A master filmmaker heading to Italy, wearing a coat, but with bare feet! Venu ran to fetch a pair of shoes and socks. To this day, nobody knows if John planned to attend the film festival barefoot.

John Abraham graduated from the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, with a gold medal in screenwriting and direction. There was a rebellious side to him, as he was suspended at least four times from the institute. He started his career assisting director Mani Kaul in the latter's debut movie Uski Roti (1969).

John made just four feature filmsincluding Vidhyarthikale Ithile (This way, students) (1972) and Amma Ariyan (Report to mother) (1986)and three documentaries in his career, which lasted around a decade and half. But, a number of his scripts never saw the light of day due to his untimely death. Amma Ariyan made it to the list of top ten Indian films of all time, as curated by the British Film Institute. His 1977 Tamil language film, Agraharathile Kazhuthai (Donkey in the Brahmin ghetto), which satirised brahmanical superstitions, was adjudged the best feature film in Tamil in the national film awards. The film was banned in Tamil Nadu for hurting religious sentiments, and Doordarshan had to cancel its scheduled screening, owing to protests. But, now, it is considered one of the best Indian films ever made.

Only a good man can be a good director. John was a good man, writes photographer and actor N.L. Balakrishnan, a close friend of the director, in a memoir published by Malayala Manorama. He narrates tales about John's benevolent nature. Once, John hired a rickshaw to the Statue junction in Thiruvananthapuram city. While disembarking, the driver paid him a compliment, saying that his jeans looked good. John asked him whether he would like to have it. Not stopping at that, he stripped and gave the jeans to the driver.

He cared deeply about the nature and environment. In a number of short stories, animals played the role of the protagonist. Aamayude Aathmahathya (Suicide of a tortoise), Plastic Kannulla Alsatian Patti (An Alsatian dog with plastic eyes), and Poochadukkham (Cat Despair) are some. During a press conference in 1983, a journalist tried to make fun of John by suggesting that John in Brahmin ghetto would have been a better name for his film Agraharathile Kazhuthai (Donkey in Brahmin ghetto). Within seconds came John's witty reply: How would the donkey face this humiliation? With an animal as a motif, John was reacting to the exploitation and discrimination in the human world.

In 1984, he started the revolutionary idea of people's cinema, with the formation of a collective named Odessa. John believed in creating a culture of audience who appreciated films for their artistic values. Also, he opposed the existing mode of film production and distribution. For that, the collective toured villages and college campuses, playing street dramas and screening classics like Charlie Chaplin's The Kid, with 16mm film projectors. Odessa produced and distributed Amma Ariyan with the chanda (market) money offered by the common people. He was crowdsourcing before the word was even coined. The film was screened on a non-commercial basis. Across Kerala, Odessa organised more than 10,000 screenings of Amma Ariyan. It was John's way of extending his support to the downtrodden. Protests against the privatisation of medical colleges, ration rice protests in Fort Kochi, and a strike by rock quarry workers in Irinjalakuda, were documented in his film.

Like many of his contemporaries, John often found solace at the bottom of the bottle. And it cost him his life. Once, John visited Balakrishnan at a tourist home where the latter was doing a photo shoot. John asked Balakrishnan to take a picture where he posed as a dead body. It turned out to be grimly propheticon May 30, 1987, John slipped and fell from a terrace during a house party. He was admitted to the Kozhikode Medical College. But, allegedly, he did not get due medical care, which led to his death on May 31. If the unfortunate incident had been averted, there is no doubt that the face of Indian cinema would have been altered.

An earlier version of the article incorrectly mentioned that John Abraham attended the Cannes festival. The error has been rectified.The adage that failures can teach many lessons seems quite...The body of a 35-year-old man was found hanging in West Bengal's Purulia district today, with the BJP claiming he was a party worker and Union minister Prakash Javadekar alleging that it was a "political murder".

The incident comes three days after the body of another man, Trilochon Mahato (20), who the party said was a member of its youth wing, was found hanging from a tree in the Balarampur area of the same district.

The BJP alleged the deaths were "political murders" and demanded a CBI inquiry into the incidents.

Dulal Kumar was found hanging from a power transmission tower near the fields in Dava village early this morning, district Superintendent of Police Joy Biswas, who has been transferred, said.

No arrest has been made in connection with the incident so far, he said.

An unsigned handwritten note found near Mahato's body stated he was "punished for working for the BJP" during the recent rural polls in the state. However, the police did not find any such note in Kumar's case, Biswas said.

"According to circumstantial evidence, Kumar's death seems to be a case of suicide. We are waiting for the postmortem report," he said.

Kumar's death outraged locals who protested outside the Balarampur police station, demanding immediate arrest of the culprits and removal of the officer-in-charge.

The alleged killings have triggered another round of face-off between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP, which were embroiled in a bitter slugfest during the panchayat elections last month.

The BJP claimed that Kumar was a party worker.

"Distressed to know about yet another killing of BJP karyakarta Dulal Kumar in Balrampur, West Bengal. This continued brutality and violence in the land of West Bengal is shameful and inhuman. Mamata Banerjee's govt has completely failed to maintain law and order in the state," party president Amit Shah tweeted.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar, who was in the city, also attacked the TMC government over the two deaths.

"This is inhuman and the worst kind of crime. We condemn the brutal political murders. The people of West Bengal will definitely teach a lesson to those behind the incidents," he told reporters.

"Nineteen BJP workers have been killed so far (since the panchayat polls). The latest victims were Dulal and Trilochon Mahato," he said.

Union minister and MP Babul Supriyo demanded imposition of President's rule in West Bengal.

"The only constitutional medicine that Mamata Banerjee and her TMC goons require for their barbaric behaviour is imposition of President's rule in West Bengal," Supriyo said.

Hitting out at the Purulia SP for terming Kumar's death a suicide, BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha demanded CBI inquiry into the two deaths.

The BJP took out a number of rallies in New Delhi and in parts of the state to protest the death of Mahato.

TMC Rajya Sabha member Derek O' Brien condemned the killings and demanded a detailed probe into them. He, however, did not rule out the involvement of the BJP, the Bajrang Dal or Maoists in the incidents.

"We strongly condemn this despicable killing. All angles must be probed. The perpetrators of this heinous act must be punished. What role did Jharkhand border have to play? What elements of Bajrang Dal, Maoist or BJP involved. Let the truth be found out through proper investigation," he tweeted.

TMC secretary-general Partha Chatterjee also suspected the Bajrang Dal had a role in the deaths.

The West Bengal government has ordered a CID probe into the killing of Mahato, ADG (Law and Order) Anuj Sharma confirmed.

CID officials said the possible involvement of the people from Jharkhand would also be probed.

"As it is a bordering district, there is a possibility of outsiders being involved in the killings of Mahto and Kumar. These killings could be part of a conspiracy," a senior CID officer said.

The West Bengal government transferred Purulia Superintendent of Police Joy Biswas, officials said adding that he has been replaced by Akash Magharia.

In Purulia, the TMC and the BJP gave a tough fight to each other. They won 839 and 645 seats respectively. Out of the 38 zilla parishad seats, the TMC bagged 26 and the BJP nine.Wall Street analysts have given CBL & Associates Properties a "N/A" rating, but there may be better buying opportunities in the stock market. Some of MarketBeat's past winning trading ideas have resulted in 5-15% weekly gains. MarketBeat just released five new stock ideas, but CBL & Associates Properties wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.Medtronic Plc is a medical technology company, which engages in the development, manufacture, distribution, and sale of device-based medical therapies and services. It operates through the following segments: Cardiac and Vascular Group; Minimally Invasive Technologies Group; Restorative Therapies Group; and Diabetes Group. The Cardiac and Vascular Group segment consists of products for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cardiac rhythm disorders and cardiovascular disease. The Minimally Invasive Technologies Group segment focuses on respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, renal system, lungs, pelvic region, kidneys, and obesity diseases. The Restorative Therapies Group segment comprises of neurostimulation therapies and drug delivery systems for the treatment of chronic pain, as well as areas of the spine and brain, along with pelvic health and conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. The Diabetes Group segment offers insulin pumps, coninuous glucose monitoring systems, and insulin pump consumables. The company was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

Read MoreStantec Inc. provides professional consulting services in the area of infrastructure and facilities in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company provides consulting services in engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, surveying, environmental sciences, project management, and project economics. It also offers water, transportation, and public works; transportation planning and traffic engineering; and resource assessment, mine development, reclamation, hydrology, and geotechnical and infrastructure engineering services, as well as urban planning, traffic assessments and optimization, environmental impact assessments, and public consultation services. In addition, the company provides structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and hydraulics engineering services. It serves urban regeneration, infrastructure, education, public and private sector, tourism and leisure, and waste and water sectors, as well as office and commercial, residential, and retail and town centers. The company was formerly known as Stanley Technology Group Inc. and changed its name to Stantec Inc. in October 1998. Stantec Inc. was founded in 1954 and is headquartered in Edmonton, Canada.

Read MoreAlbany

When Amy Koren-Roth moved to Albany, she said she felt the food scene was "depressing and dismal."

Twenty-four years later, it's changed quite a bit in her estimation  there are dozens of restaurants, bars, breweries and coffee shops of every variety, specializing in different dishes, styles and brews.

"Cities, communities and food trends tend to evolve," she said Friday, as she led a group of 17 people around the city's downtown. "Albany is certainly on the upswing."

Koren-Roth, who founded the popular Taste of Troy Food Tours in 2016, recently partnered with Discover Albany to start offering tours in the city. Tours are held Friday afternoons from May through October and start at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center, 25 Quackenbush Square.

They are equal parts historical context, cultural commentary and culinary experimentation. During a tour Friday, Koren-Roth started by asking the group where they were from, whether they'd been on a food tour before and what their favorite food was. Participants hailed from Kinderhook, Averill Park, North Greenbush, Menands, Rensselaer and Albany. Several were repeat customers who'd attended the Troy tour; others were first-timers.

Then the group headed toward their first stop, Albany Pump Station, where they tried two different kinds of beer and ate pretzels with spicy mustard while Koren-Roth told them about the building's history and the growth of craft beer in New York. Over the course of three hours, they also visited The First Church on North Pearl Street, Mexican restaurant Ama Cocina, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen and coffee shop Stacks Espresso Bar before finishing with a toast to the weekend at Olde English Pub.

Koren-Roth, a history major at Mount Holyoke College and a public health nutritionist, sees the tours as a way to mesh her passions for local history and food. An avid traveler, she's visited 30 different countries and often goes on a food tour, takes a cooking class or shops at a farmers' market (or does all three) when visiting a new place. After taking a class on food tours, she decided to start offering her own.

"This is my 'What am I going to do when I retire' plan," Koren-Roth, who retired in January, said. "I'm a foodie. I love to be able to recommend places to eat all around the world."

She spent three years doing research before leading her first Troy tour, which included combing through the archives at the Rensselaer County Historical Society to peruse menus of dinner parties held by the Troy Victorian Society and researching the cuisines of immigrant communities who settled in the city.

The Troy tours are generally well-attended, averaging eight or nine attendees, and include a mix of foodies, tourists and locals. Participants visit Psychedelicatessan, The Whistling Kettle, Brown's Brewing Company, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Illium Cafe and The Dutch Udder. The tours end at the Troy Waterfront Farmers' Market.

Staff at Discover Albany contacted Koren-Roth, who also offers private tours, last year. They saw the tours as a way to bring more people into Albany and make the city more accessible, said president and CEO Jill Delaney. It's also another activity for people attending conferences and events at venues like Albany Capital Center, she added. The organization recently announced a partnership with Upstate Kayak Rentals, which will offer a rental service at the Corning Preserve Boat Launch, and a new "brewcycle" tour downtown offered by Capital City Cycle Tour.

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"Being the city that we are, we have kind of an endless stream of people to take part in this," Delaney said. "It's something to do to get yourself immersed in the city."

Similar to Troy, Koren-Roth spent time studying and reading about Albany, and staff at Discover Albany helped point her to different restaurants and points of interest. She did a practice round with her family before leading the first official tour and also received a grant from Capitalize Albany Corporation to help with the launch.

The tours introduce people to restaurants they may not be familiar with and support local businesses, but they also show seasoned residents and newcomers what Albany and Troy have to offer, Koren-Roth said.

"It helps people appreciate what we have here," she said. "There's a lot."

miszler@timesunion.com  518-454-5018  @madisoniszlerSARANAC LAKE - Emily Martz believes in the social safety net because it's caught her more than once.

If elected to Congress, she wants to protect benefits like Medicaid, food stamps and unemployment insurance so other Americans will have access to the same programs that made a difference in her life.

The first time she went on unemployment was nearly two decades ago when she was a junior employee at a financial firm and got laid off. Then as a professor at Paul Smith's College her position was cut because of a financial emergency at the college.

"I'm doing this to give back," Martz said. "I want other people to have the same opportunities as me."

The 46-year-old Saranac Lake resident is one of five Democrats vying to take on U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-Essex County, for the 21st Congressional District, a vast geographic area that stretches from the Adirondacks to northern Saratoga County.

Martz has lived in the district for less than a decade, but she isn't worried about voters holding it against her. She argues that her time in different parts of the country strengthens her background and expands her perspective.

"What matters is someone's dedication to the district and what the person has done for the district," Martz said.

In the district she helped support local businesses through her work with the Adirondack North Country Association, an economic development non-profit organization.

In particular, she highlights the expansion of a solar power company that was able to grow with the help of some seed money. "We worked to effectively bridge that gap and Apex solar has grown from approximately 30 employees to 130 employees," Martz said.

"That's the kind of real experience, here in the district, that separates me," she added.

Chester Supervisor Craig Leggett said Martz's understanding of the region's economy is one of the reasons he supports her candidacy. "She knows what we face and what our opportunities are," he said.

It was her assessment of the region that led her to decide Congress was the right place for her to begin her political career.

"The village I live in, the town I live in, the state I live in, are headed in a positive direction - what's not, is Congress," Martz said.

More Information This is another in a series of profiles of some of the candidates running in the primaries for Congress as the June 26 election nears. See More Collapse

The lack of a governmental resume didn't deter Leggett from supporting her, as he expects Martz will be a quick study. "She has the qualities to be able to jump in, learn her way around and do a good job for us," he said.

In the private sector, Martz said she created jobs and helped businesses by making partnerships and expects that background will help her get things done at the federal level.

Without the most money or supporters in the race, Leggett said Martz will have to outwork her competitors to win the primary. He said the strength of her campaign is when she connects with voters in face-to-face meetings.

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Martz added that she calls as many people as she can and distributed postcards with her phone number on them. She said a few people called her back and were appreciative of how accessible she was.

"I committed to the retail politics, which I know is tough in this district because it's so big," she said.

BIPARTISAN APPROACH

Martz doesn't shy away from the fact that Republicans are supporting her during the primary, a fact she thinks bodes well for November, and says she differs from some of her Democratic opponents because she can work across party lines.

She said her approach to governing will reflect her pragmatic thinking, which isn't tied to any ideological dogma. "Some of the other candidates have a pie in the sky approach," Martz said, while declining to label anyone specifically.

This moderate style is one of the attributes about Martz that is touted by Leggett, an unaffiliated voter who ran for office in 2015 with the support of the Democratic and Conservative parties.

"She's not your typical Democratic candidate," he said, noting that her position on the Second Amendment was grounded in the idea of individual rights.

Leggett first met Martz three years ago when they served on a panel together and he was immediately struck by her sincerity and intelligence. "I thought, here is a bright person who has her finger on the pulse of things," he recalled.

The primary is on June 26.

David.Lombardo@timesunion.com - 518.454.5427 - @Poozer87John W. Cole ran a successful auto repair chain. Sheldon Silver ran the New York state Assembly.

On May 11, both felons faced a day of legal reckoning  and neither was run off to prison.

Cole and Silver are two beneficiaries of a legal system that allows felons to stay out of prison after they have been sentenced but while they appeal their convictions.

A jury found Silver guilty in 2015 in federal court of corruption. In 2016, a judge imposed a 12-year prison sentence and ordered the Manhattan Democrat to pay nearly $7 million in fines and forfeitures. But he never went to prison.

Silver appealed and won a new trial when an appellate court overturned that conviction. He had a second trial, which ended in the conviction on May 11. Silver, who awaits sentencing, walked out of court still on bail.

That same day, some 180 miles north in state court, Cole listened as Deanna Shapiro, a longtime family friend whom Cole's alcohol-related crash left a quadriplegic, delivered an emotional plea to Saratoga County Judge James A. Murphy III asking for justice. So did her husband, Scott, and their 15-year-old son, the latter of whom left Cole in tears.

Murphy, in turn, sentenced Cole, the owner of the Cole's Collision chain, to the maximum seven years in prison for second-degree assault.

And then Cole, 53, just like Silver, 74, went home.

Most convicted felons go to prison on their sentencing dates, but New York law and federal allows post-conviction bail. Since the beginning of 2014, less than 100 applications for post-conviction release were made and approximately 25 percent granted, according to an estimate from the Third Department, which includes 28 upstate counties and covers the Capital Region.

Neither the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics, the state Office of Court Administration or the state Division of Criminal Justice Services had data on the number of convicted defendants who make bail pending appeal.

"It's not something that we have much conversation about. I think it's certainly something that I would expect the public to be surprised about," said Susan Bryant, acting director of the New York State Defenders Association. "Most people wouldn't necessarily know that there is even the opportunity to have that happen."

Bryant's not-for-profit organization, which represents lawyers in public defense, explained defendants have no constitutional right to bail pending appeal. Once convicted, their presumption of innocence is gone. She said it is likely more commonly requested by attorneys who were hired to represent a client at trial and appeal.

When wealthy business owners and powerful political figures are convicted of felonies and remain free pending appeal, it raises the question of whether they are afforded more consideration than defendants of lesser means.

"I think that's somewhat implicit in our whole process itself," said retired U.S. Magistrate Judge Randolph Treece, who sat on a federal judge in Albany for more than 14 years.

He said the wealthier defendants may have a standing community reputation, stable job, property and more to lose than poorer defendants, which could lead judges to believe they are less of risk of flight.

"Everybody has got money for a bus ticket or a friend giving you a ride. A judge has to weigh that," Treece said. "So does it endure to the benefit of people with substantial means and substantial backgrounds? Yes."

The chances of receiving bail pending an appeal hinges heavily on the strength of the upcoming argument to the appellate court, said Vincent Bonventre, a professor at Albany Law School.

"Especially if you've got a case where there are some actual substantial legal questions that might result in a reversal -- that's going to weigh heavily on a judge who has got to decide whether or not to allow bail," Bonventre said. He said if there is "some significant possibility of a reversal, certainly that's a good reason to permit bail during the pendency of the appeal."

When Cole was convicted in mid-March, Murphy ordered the auto repair businessman -- a six-time felon with the previous convictions being nearly 25 years ago -- held without bail. Days later, Cole's lawyer, Cheryl Coleman, argued successfully to Appellate Justice Eugene "Gus" Devine to let Cole remain free as he waged his appeal.

Prosecutors had successfully proved in court that on March 11, 2017, an alcohol-impaired Cole floored the gas pedal of his 2015 turbocharged BMW, rammed it into a tree and causing the catastrophic injuries to Deanna Shapiro. But that no longer factored into Cole's status  at least until the appeal was settled.

Suffice to say, his victims were not pleased.

"Unlike John," Deanna Shapiro told Murphy at the sentencing, "I wasn't afforded the opportunity of a jury trial or an appeals process that allows me to return home regardless of what happens today."

Coleman said to be granted release pending appeal, she needed to demonstrate to Devine that she had a potentially meritorious appeal, in addition to other factors, such as her client not being a flight risk. Coleman argued Murphy made an "incorrect oversimplification of the law" after jurors asked him if they could convict Cole of second-degree assault without finding he was intoxicated. Then Murphy, over objections from Coleman, replied "yes" and read the law.

Coleman said when bail is granted pending appeal, "It's usually a positive sign for the appeal."

That's not always the case.

In 2007, Joseph Houghtaling and his then-wife, Renee, were convicted of falsifying business records  the only defendants convicted at an 11-week trial in which three of their family members were acquitted of more than 100 fraud-related charges in connection with allegations they staged car crashes for money. They each stayed free on bail for four years as they appealed their cases, eventually being sent behind bars in July 2011.

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In 2013, Albany city landlord Mahadaye "Mala" Khan listed to acting Supreme Court Justice Roger McDonough scold her for her "arrogance" and "greed" for stealing security deposits intended for the Albany County Department of Social Services. He imposed a six-month jail term. But Khan was free on $50,000 until she lost her appeal in April 2015.

On the flip side is the example of former state Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno who stayed free throughout his two federal corruption trials. In May 2010, following the Rensselaer County Republican's conviction on two counts of honest services fraud, Judge Gary Sharpe sentenced the ex-lawmaker to two years in prison and ordered him to pay $280,000 in restitution.

But the judge allowed Bruno to leave court as the Supreme Court was set to decide the matter of former Enron businessman Jeffrey Skilling; the high court would later reverse elements of Skilling's conviction finding the honest services law unconstitutionally vague.

In his 2016 memoir, "Keep Swinging," in which Bruno was highly critical of Sharpe, he recalled the judge's decision to let him remain free on appeal.

"Bail would be continued until after Skilling v. United States was decided and, depending on the result, my lawyers would either submit a bail application to the Court of Appeals or I'd no longer be a convicted felon," Bruno wrote. "I squared my shoulders, held my head high and walked out to the courthouse steps."

Bruno's convictions were reversed; his case ultimately ended with his acquittal on all charges at a second trial in U.S. District Court in Albany.

"Because of the Supreme Court's ruling, we knew what Bruno was convicted of in the first instance was not even a crime," Bonventre said. "Do we really want individuals to be incarcerated prior to their appeal if there's a real possibility that these individuals will have a successful appeal  especially if what they're convicted of is not even a crime?"

The June 2016, the Supreme Court narrowed the definition of corruption in reversing the case of former Virginia Gov. Bob McConnell, who with his wife was convicted taking government action on behalf of a business executive who had given the couple loans, gifts and vacations.

The McDonnell decision led to reversals of convictions of Silver and former Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, both of whom were found guilty of political corruption in their unrelated cases in U.S. District Court in Manhattan.

In May 2016, Judge Valerie Caproni sentenced Silver to 12 years in prison. The same month, Judge Kimba Wood sentenced Skelos, a Nassau County Republican, to five years in prison. She sentenced his codefendant son, Adam, 6  years behind bars.

But with McDonnell decision looming, the judges allowed all three defendants to remain free on bail. Federal prosecutors opposed their release to no avail.

U.S. law dictates that defendants convicted and sentenced to prison should be detained pending appeal unless the judge finds by "by clear and convincing evidence that the person is not likely to flee or pose a danger to the safety of any other person or the community if released," and "that the appeal is not for the purpose of delay and raises a substantial question of law or fact likely to result in . . . reversal [or] an order for a new trial."

In both the cases of Silver and Skelos, attorneys argued that a "substantial question of law" had been raised.

In both cases, the Second Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals in Manhattan overturned their convictions. Silver remained free through his ill-fated trial this months and remains free until sentencing. Skelos and his son, to be retried June 18, are also free.

Frank O. Bowman III, a professor of law at the University of Missouri School of Law and a former federal prosecutor in Florida and Washington, D.C., said a judge's decision on bail pending appeal is tricky. If a judge presided over a trial that resulted in a conviction and declined to granted the defendant a new trial, the judge has already made legal determination that the conviction was a solid result. But a legitimate appeal argument could raise the question of why someone who will likely ultimately be found not guilty should be locked up.

"So essentially you have this tricky balancing act that judges have to perform," Bowman said. "They have to try to assess the proceedings that they themselves presided over and, in fact, try to see whether there's one or more legal issues that the defendant might genuinely prevail on at the appellate level. If that's the case, one sees the point why you'd give the person bail because you want some finality to the determination that the person actually is factually and legally guilty of the crime before you punish them."

He said it also helps to have a good lawyer.BETHLEHEM  By the time she was 12, Kelly Cusack seemed supremely confident as she forged public school friendships and excelled in class without her blindness hindering her. Her cane was almost as reliable as GPS as she threaded through crowds and halls. The Times Union profiled her after she won The Braille Institute's regional and national contests in 2013.

Then came middle school. And something bizarrely unsettling happened. Kelly was struck mute in the middle of conversations or while responding to questions. When her parents sought a medical analysis, the diagnosis was "depression, panic attacks and and autism, kind of an overwhelming diagnosis to hear all at once," Kelly said with a rueful smile.

But she was determined to create the full life and friendships that any teenager would want. Now, at age 17, she is enrolled in Bethlehem Central High's Lab School.

And she's won The Braille Institute's regional contest again. Her family will accompany her to Los Angeles for the national contest on June 16. The National Braille Challenge tests the contestants' skills in four categories: proofreading, charts and graphs, reading comprehension, and speed and accuracy of their Braille typing.

She counts herself lucky to have supportive parents and a brother she loves, even though she also enjoys annoying him. They live in a big, bright, airy Glenmont home where Kelly chatted about how her tenacity and tech skills helped her navigate blindness and autism as her mother, Jen, listened.

"I used an app to program my phone to speak for me when I can't make my voice," said Kelly, who can make her laptop do the same. "Before, when my voice shut down, people would get angry and tell me I was rude. They didn't realize it was not something I could control. I wish there were more awareness about autism among the general public so people would understand it when they saw it."

The National Institute of Mental Health devotes a website to explaining that autism can affect different people in wildly different ways.

"Autism is known as a "spectrum" disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience," NIH explains. "Although ASD can be a lifelong disorder, treatments and services can improve a person's symptoms and ability to function ... People with ASD have difficulty with social communication and interaction, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors."

Kelly credits a summer camp for the blind more than an electronic device for increasing poise and social ease. She learned outdoors skills and made friends who stay in touch. One of her best buddies was a guy from Louisiana employed as a camp mentor.

"He reassured me that I wasn't broken, that my life could be valuable in this world," she said. "He definitely had problems with his eyesight but after camp was over, he found out he was going to be completely blind. And he decided to prepare."

Sign up for The Knick  Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter.

Kelly, who's been blind since she was a baby, is now a long-distance mentor for her Louisiana friend, teaching him how to read and write braille.

There are plenty of audio books and recorded textbooks for her to use. But she likes Braille, the writing system invented in the 19th century, that uses tiny raised dots for alphabet letters and entire words. Braille dots are placed in a specific pattern within tiny squares of space known as braille cells. Each cell can represent an alphabet letter, number, punctuation mark or an entire word. Braille is not a language. It is more like a universal code. Chinese, Spanish and Arabic braille all use the same cells to say the same words and numbers.

"If there's a book that isn't deeply engaging or if it's on a subject I find easy, I don't mind listening to it read to me," Kelly explained. "But if I really want to absorb it and feel emotionally connected, somehow Braille makes the experience more meaningful."

She can read and take notes on a device that looks like a slim laptop. She demonstrates it, using Tim O'Brien's brilliant Vietnam War novel, "The Things They Carried." As the text flows on screen, Kelly flicks a button on the side of the keyboard. A refreshable strip of Braille pops up at the bottom of the keyboard. Kelly's fingertips swiftly graze the Braille dots that change formation and reads aloud words taking shape under her hand:

"They carried the sky. The whole atmosphere, they carried it, the humidity, the monsoons, the stink of fungus and decay, all of it, they carried gravity."

She pauses to drink it in then remarks, "It's kind of like you feel it more when you touch the words instead of just listening to them."All of those who lost their lives to farming accidents throughout Ireland will be commemorated in a service on Sunday, June 24, in the Church of the Most Holy Rosary, in Abbeyleix, County Laois at 2pm.

This year, will mark the fifth year that the service has been held. Embrace FARM welcomes everyone who wishes to come with open arms so as everyone can remember their loved ones together.

The group itself was first set up in 2014, by Norma and Brian Rohan from Laois after Brians father was sadly killed in a farming related accident on their family farm in 2012.

This years service will be lead by Catholic Bishop Denis Nulty and Church of Ireland bishop, Michael Burrows, with local clergy from the Church of Ireland, Canon Harvey, and, Fr Cummins also attending.

The idea behind setting it up was to provide a bereavement support group for families, who like Brian, have lost a family member or loved one to a farming accident.

Over the past 10 years, 210 people have died on Irish family farms, including 24 last year alone.So far, in 2018, there have been seven farm related deaths recorded.

Embrace Farm was contacted by 130 families to have their loved ones remembered at this years Ecumenical Service.

Behind each of these families is someone who was very important to a family and a community.

Light refreshments will be served at the Manor Hotel in Abbeyleix following the event. All are welcome.

Embrace FARM is now fully integrated with the charities Regulatory Authority in its operation.

It compiled its strategic plan to carry their vision forward from now until 2021 of being a caring and supporting agri-Community for all those affected by farming accidents.

Embrace FARM will continue to work hard throughout 2018.

Keep in touch and updated through their Facebook page or their website www.embracefarm.comIf youre an auto fan, you should know about the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, California. If youre an auto fan, you should be over the moon that often-exclusive vault inside the museum will finally open its doors to the public today, June 1. A new exhibit, called The World Tour Vault presented by Hagerty, will pull the curtains on as many as 100 cars found inside the museum, giving museum-goers an opportunity to see some of the finest machinery the industry has ever built.

Weve often called some auto-related events cant-miss opportunities, and this one definitely counts as one of them. The Pedersen Automotive Museum houses arguably the most impressive car collection in the world, and were now getting to see a big chunk of them? Thats an opportunity that should never, under any circumstances, be passed up.

Even better, the museum itself will offer a number of different public tours, ranging from a 75-minute tour at just $20 to a 120-minute tour at $30. Later this summer, the museum will also offer the Tour of the Legends at a price of $75. Its unclear what that specific tour is going to be made up of, but it should be a spectacle in its own given how much it costs to sign up for it.

All of this is made possible through the museums partnership with Hagerty, the same company that offers insurance on collectible vehicles. The new exhibit is part of a 10-year partnership between the museum and the insurance agency. As the worlds preeminent automotive museum, we constantly strive to educate our guests about automotive history, technology and design and how it has impacted both local and global culture, said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges. The Vault presented by Hagerty will offer the public an opportunity to now select their tour experience and see compelling new content that has never been displayed before at the Petersen.

Those who will go to the museum will have a staggering 40,000 square feet of additional display space to walk around, giving them an opportunity to see more than 120 years of automotive history in all that space. Dont miss out on the chance to go to the museum. If you still need to be convinced, let Hagerty CEO McKeel Hagerty talk you into going.

Car fans are going to be blown away by the vault tour, he said. Most people havent had the opportunity to see a lot of these icons up close before, so were thrilled to give them that chance. Cars this special should be seen by everybody.ALL eyes will be focused on Justice Nadia Kangaloo today, as she is set to deliver her much-anticipated judgment on whether Gary Griffith was lawfully appointed to the position in August by the Police Service Commission (PolSC).Covid-19 has exposed the fragility of food systems in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean. Pre-existing inequalities have been exacerbated by the socio-economic impacts of the crisis and the mitigation measures taken around the world.I am reposting this here as someone from the Germany Forum suggested. I am in dire need of some help about whether to buy train passes or single tickets in each country.

My daughter and I are travelling to Amsterdam, then Belgium and Germany. We will be arriving in Amsterdam on June 9th staying at Best Western Amsterdam Airport hotel. We will take the train to and from Centraal station on that day. The next day (June 10th)we will take the train to Sloterdijk station for our hotel (Urban Lodge Hotel). We want to visit The Hague, Zaanse Schan, and many other sights in Central, all of which requires Tram and train travel. On June 12th we leave for Antwerp (June 12th - 16th). We will visit Bruges, Ghent and Brussels during that time.

We leave Antwerp on June 16th for Boppard. On the way ( if possible) we would like to stop in Cologne for some sightseeing.

From the 17th- 20th we want to visit castles and other towns such as Cochem, Bacharach, St Goar etc. in the Rhine / Mosel area and do a KD line cruise from Bingen to Boppard.

On the 20th we take the train from Boppard to Frankfurt airport.

I have been on the DB Bahn website and I am confused about what places each pass covers. What pass and type should I buy if any and how many days?

Should I buy a weekend pass (Schones-Wochenende-Ticket) for June 16th & 17th to use from Antwerp to Cologne and then use on 17th and then buy a 3 day twin rail pass for 18th, 19th, 20th (can i use for KD Line cruise?)so that I can use for travel on 20th from Boppard to Frankfurt airport or should I buy a Germany/ Benelux pass or Lander pass.

What pass if any to buy in Amsterdam and Brussels?

Should I buy in advance on the DB Bahn website and how long does it take to receive it? Or can I buy in Antwerp?

Please, any help is appreciated. Also any recommendations on whether I should base elsewhere?Hello - I would love to hear thoughts/ideas for our upcoming 7-day trip to Costa Rica in mid-June. We're celebrating a very active Grandma's 75th birthday - our group has 7 adults and 8 kids, ranging from 7 to 15. We're flying into Liberia and staying 2.5 days in La Fortuna, then headed to the beach for a 4-day stay at the Riu Palace in Playa Matapalo.

We know we'd like to explore the following in La Fortuna:

-Volcano

-Hot Springs

-Waterfall

-Hanging Bridges

Other general activities we'd like to do while we're in Costa Rica:

-Ziplining

-Wildlife tour/activities

-Horseback riding

In reading forums, seems like we may have more of a need for guided excursions in La Fortuna, and that Riu Palace would be more resort activity/beach focused? Some additiional questions to the community:

-Ideas/suggestions for specific excursions/tours to cover the activities mentioned above in La Fortuna?

-Of the two locations we'll be staying, which would be best for ziplining/horseback riding/wildlife exploration?

-Are there any activities/sites specific to the Playa Matapalo area that anyone would recommend?

Open to any thoughts on any aspect of our trip, thank you very much!Hello. My wife and I are looking to do one of the two routes but we can't really decide which one is better. We are planning in doing two days (or maybe three as maximum) so regarding the Shikoku Henro we would complete just 10-11 temples.

Looking at the pictures and videos the temples in the Kumano Kodo look more impressive I guess, but it seems that the Shikoku one is more spiritual and it has all the things around such as dressing as traditional pilgrim and get the stamps in each temple.

But I would like to hear from people who have actually walked these routes. Do you have any preferences?

The last city we will be visiting before facing any of the routes will be Hiroshima and then we will head to Tokyo. Do not know if that helps but there it goes :)

Thanks a lot :)Hi All

Does anyone know which weather forecast site tends to have any degree of accuracy. It appears that there is a different forecast on every different site.

The only thing they seem to agree on is that the yasawa islands do actually exist.

I have read before somewhere that Fiji Met is not that reliable, is this true?Re: Couple visiting from Vietnam found stabbed to death inside C

15. Re: Couple visiting from Vietnam found stabbed to death inside C

Beaglesx2 is mistaken. Even CC must have cameras everywhere. No hotel has cameras everywhere, for some reason this is a common misconception. Probably TV & movies.

The hotel cameras are located to protect t the casino & property, not the guests.

Youre on camera in the casino, youre not on room floors.

A sad day, tragedy is bad enough, for the family to have to handle this out of town is an added stress.NYC vendors, IME, expect more tips than their counterparts in North America. While not wedding services, I have gone to masseuses and hairdressers (in NYC) who own their own business, do not have an assistant, and still expect a tip. It sometimes surprises me as these are from Ethnic groups where in their country of origin they would be insulted to be offered a tip. But that's New York.

OP is lucky not to be dealing with a whole fleet of services.Here's the website showing the description of the All-Access $109 tour advertised on TripAdvisor:

You get a guided walking tour that likely includes St. Paul's Chapel, the Firefighters' Memorial, and the 9/11 Memorial in the plaza above the Museum. Then you get "access" to the 9/11 Museum and to One World Observatory, but will you have docents telling you about them? Or do you get just timed admissions and you will be on your own to look around. The description isn't clear.

Here are alternates you should check:

9/11 Memorial & Museum, the official operator, has a tour of the Museum at $44, which includes admission for an adult. Admission to the Museum without a tour is $24. There is no admission charge to visit the Memorial:

9/11 Tribute Museum at Greenwich and Rector Streets is operated by people who have personal connections to 9/11. It has guided walking tours of the 9/11 Memorial and other important nearby sites at $35 for an adult, plus it has combination tickets that include OWO. I wonder if the $109 All-Access tour is actually a resale of the Tribute Museum tour and of admission tickets to the 9/11 Museum and OWO?

OWO admission starts at $34 for adults and admission with a tour for $67: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?

Events for Halloween 2019 in NYC

Thanksgiving 2019 in NYC: What to Do & Where to Eat

Christmastime in NYC 2020: Dates for the Trees-Windows-Markets-Ice Skating+MORE!

Christmas Day 2019 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!While you do need a car to really explore Long Island, it's often necessary to have a reservation for the ferries. And Long Island is so big and varied that you won't really have time to make full use (?) of the car. Traffic can be fierce all over, but especially at the beach towns during the summer. (You haven't included your home in your visible profile. If you have Atlantic beaches at home, there is no need to visit the ones on Long Island.)

If you scan this board for similar requests, you will see that exact dates are necessary for getting the best hotel advice - which you need because your budget is so low. You might also wish to read some of the posts about staying in NJ or Long Island City (part of the city of New York), because you mentioned commuting. With limited time, it is usually best to stay in Manhattan for an itinerary like yours. But both the hotel cost and the parking cost will be obstacles for your plan to make this trip by car.

You need to give the size of your car, and explain whether safe means safe from scratches, safe to leave things visible to thieves, or what. All parking in NYC proper tends to be valet, and to have height restrictions.Depending on what you pay for flights this is probably doable but you would be squeezing every penny. Hotels are expensive at that time of year. Are you willing to go for a room with a shared rather than private bath? Or a hostel? You can do food very inexpensively if you are willing to eat on the fly and the etroCard will cover trnsit for the week for only $33 - but sights cost what they do (you can esily look them up - we don;t know what your must sees are).

But do remember:

Alcohol may cost way more than you are used to

All prepared foods are taxed at 9% and the usual tip for waitstaff or bartender is 20% - adding 30% to prices listed on any menu (unless you stick to food courts or food trucks on the fly).- Obama will reportedly be in the country for a day's visit on July 16, 2018

- He is expected to hold talks with Uhuru and Raila before visiting K'Ogelo

- His family will not be coming along with him going by the unconfirmed reports

- Obama will then proceed to South Africa to deliver the 16th Nelson Mandela lecture

- This will be the first time he will be visiting Kenya since he exited White House

- He last visited Kenya in 2015 when he was serving his second term as president

Retired United States (US) President Barack Obama is expected back in Kenya, his father's motherland.

Obama will reportedly land in the country on July 16, 2018, for a day's visit before proceeding to South Africa.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

Retired President Barrack Obama last visited Kenya in 2015 when he was serving his second term as the President of the United States. Photo: CNN.

READ ALSO: Obama To Come Back To Kenya As A Private Citizen

According to a report by Daily Nation on Sunday, June 3, the former head of state is expected to meet President Uhuru Kenyatta and former prime minister Raila Odinga during his visit.

The unconfirmed reports also indicated the beloved American leader will also visit his relatives in village home K'Ogelo, Siaya County.

READ ALSO: Here Is What Barack Obama Will Do While In Kenya

He will then proceed to South Africa where he will deliver the 16th Nelson Mandela lecture on July 17, 2018, at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg.

No, he will not be traveling with the former First Lady Michelle and their two beautiful daughters, Malia and Natasha, going by the reports seen by TUKO.co.ke on Sunday.

Former US President Barrack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama and their two daughters Malia and Natasha. Photo: CNN.

READ ALSO: This Is Where Barack Obama Slept While In Kenya

This will be Obama's first visit to Kenya since he exited White House on January 20, 2017.

He made a historic and high profile visit to the country in 2015 when he was serving his second term as the President of the United States.

TUKO.co.ke understands his upcoming return to Kenya is yet to be formally announced.

Obama had promised to return home as a private citizen upon the end of his term as president.

He said his visit as head of state was very limiting in terms of places he could visit and therefore preferred to come back as a private citizen.

READ ALSO: Obama Will Not Bring Michelle, Family Along To Kenya

Obama made history in 2015 as the first sitting American president to visit Kenya out of all the 44 presidents.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Kenyans React to Loss of Public Funds - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko.co.ke- Maria and Consolata were fused at the heart

- They planned to become teachers upon completion of university education

- They were against being surgically separated and hoped to marry one husband one day

- President Magufuli led in mourning the inspirational sisters

The Tanzanian conjoined twins who were against being separated from each other have died.

The twin sisters, Maria and Consolata passed on at Iringa Provincial Hospital today Sunday, June 3, after a protracted battle with heart complications which saw them get admitted to the hospital in December 2017 until their untimely death.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

Maria and Consolata were fused at the heart and doctors advised they be referred to Jakaya Kikwete Heart Institute before being re-admitted back to Iringa where they were pronounced dead.

READ ALSO: See extraordinary life of CONJOINED twins, 16, who say no to separation (photos, video)

The two sisters passed on at Iringa Provincial Hospital today Sunday, June 3 after a protracted battle with heart complications. Photo: Bongo5.

READ ALSO: Tears as conjoined twins fused at spine and rectum are split in groundbreaking 9-hour operation

Born in Makete district in Njombe province in 1996, they went to Udzungwa Secondary School in the neighbouring Iringa province.

Despite their condition, the 22-year-old girls performed so well and booked a place at Ruaha Catholic University where they were undertaking education course.

In an interview with BBC in 2017, the two revealed their shared career dream was to become teachers one day.

READ ALSO: 4 super-lovely photos from first birthday of conjoined twins historically separated at Kenyatta Hospital

Born in Makete district in Njombe province in 1996, they performed so well in primary school and joined Udzungwa Secondary School in the neighbouring Iringa province. Photo: Bongo5.

READ ALSO: Mkewe Alfred Mutua amtambulisha dadake mrembo kwa umma

They were however against operation to separate them and had hoped to marry one husband.

The twins' mother passed away during childbirth and later their father went to be with the Lord leaving them under the care of a Catholic charity called Maria Consolata, which gave them their names.

President John Pombe Magufuli when he visited Maria and Consolata at the hospital. Magufuli has led Tanzanians in mourning. Photo: Chief Spokesperson of the Government of Tanzania/Twitter.

President John Pombe Magufuli led Tanzanians in mourning.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Kenyans React to Loss of Public Funds - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko News- Kirubi flew to US for treatment late 2017 where he stayed until a few months after 2018

- His latest photos show how he has lost so much weight and its believed he's terminally ill

- Kirubi is known for his vast investments in various sectors of the economy ranging from media, education to real estate

- He serves as an inspiration to many on how to grow and maintain wealth

Kenyans continued sending their messages of good will to terminally ill tycoon businessman Chris Kirubi on Saturday, June 2.

READ ALSO: Kenyas billionaire businessman battling acute colon cancer in the US

The business mogul hosted Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho who paid him a visit at his Kilifi home on the day.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens.

"I had pleasure of receiving a visit from Governor of Msa county Hassan Ali Joho at my home in Kilifi County. He came to wish me well as I continue to recuperate. We discussed matters of national interest in particular nation building, investment & fostering cooperation," Kirubi said through his twitter handle.

READ ALSO: First photo of ailing billionaire businessman Chris Kirubi surfaces

When photos of the meeting were shared on Kirubi's social media account, Kenyans unanimously wished the ageing influential businessman a quick recovery.

Unlike early 2017, Kirubi appears frail having lost significant weight after spending months in a US hospital reversing effects of his terminal illness.

READ ALSO: 17 brutal truths many Kenyans wish to tell billionaire businessman Chris Kirubi

Kirubu flew out of the country late 2017 to seek treatment in a US hospital where he had a lengthy stay until some months into 2018.

He is known for his vast investments across various sectors ranging from media, healthcare, education, manufacturing, real estate to agriculture.

He serves as an inspiration to many on how to grow and manage wealth but has also been criticised in some quotas for being a beneficiary of illicit wealth- claims that have never been confirmed.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

ALSO WATCH: Ringtone Disses Diamond Platinumz, Maintains His Love for Zari Hassan | TUKO TV

Source: Tuko-Kalonzo dismissed reports NASA was dead even though its top leadership suggests otherwise

- He confirmed NASA will continue to criticise the government on corruption

- Mudavadi and Wetangula have openly disowned unity pact between Raila and Uhuru

The leader of Wiper party and NASA co-principal Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has reaffirmed the coalition's commitment to its oversight role as opposition.

Kalonzo confirmed NASA will continue with its push for a corruption-free country and service delivery right from the opposition.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

He dismissed reports NASA was dead even as its top leadership publicly read from different scripts.

Speaking at the AIC Church in Athi River in Machakos county on Sunday, June 3, the former presidential candidate rejected calls by some local leaders to assume the position of the official opposition leader because ODM party Raila Odinga joined forces with the government.

READ ALSO: Raila forgives Uhuru for calling him madman

The leader of Wiper party and NASA co-principal Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has reaffirmed the coalition's commitment to its oversight role. Photo: NASA Coalition/Facebook.

READ ALSO: Joho wants to be president, let him be elected - Raila

NASA is actually under the constitution as official opposition. We are still in opposition and will continue criticizing the Jubilee Government especially on corruption, he said.

On the between President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila, Kalonzo again reiterated the need to support the two leaders so as to correct injustice and ethnicity.

"The country has for long been ethnically divided. I support the handshake between Uhuru and Raila because for a lasting solution, people have to sacrifice themselves. Let us give them the benefit of doubt, he added.

READ ALSO: Ngilu, Kibwana could soon part ways with Kalonzo

The secret meeting between Raila and Uhuru on Friday, February 9, left the opposition camp sharply divided with the fate of the vibrant NASA coalition hanging in the balance.

Just like Kalonzo, the other co-principals Musalia Mudavadi and Moses Wetangula have openly disowned reconciliation talks between NASA and Jubilee, terming it a selfish Raila-Uhuru affair only meant to please the international community.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

ALSO WATCH: Uhuru and Raila full speech at Harambee House on TUKO TV

Source: Kenya Breaking News TodayWhen the Nairobi County Assembly resumes on Tuesday, June 5, top of its business agenda will be the nomination of fiery lawyer Miguna Miguna as the deputy governor.

Already the Assembly Speaker Beatrice Elachi has indicated she will table the motion for debate before the floor of the house despite her earlier objection.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

TUKO.co.ke is reliably informed of intricate behind the scene happenings which will most likely influence the motion even as the Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko insisted his choice for the deputy governor was final.

READ ALSO: Nairobi governor reveals pressure from Jubilee leaders made him nominate Miguna Miguna

Already the Assembly Speaker Beatrice Elachi has indicated she will table the motion for debate before the floor of the house despite her earlier objection. Photo: Beatrice Elachi/Twitter.

READ ALSO: Miguna's response on nomination as Sonko's deputy leaves everyone confused

"I have no authority to reject a nominee Governor Sonko has picked. That is why I will present the letter nominating Miguna to the county assembly so that members can approve or reject it," said Elachi.

One camp led by Majority Leader Abdi Guyo and Ngara MCA Chege Mwaura has constantly threatened to shoot down the nomination of Miguna on grounds the deported politician is not a member of Jubilee party.

It will be a titanic battle pitting Jubilee against opposition ODM members.

Jubilee currently has 43 elected MCAs against ODMs 39.

READ ALSO: Miguna Migunas brutal response to Mike Sonkos gubernatorial victory

Miguna is on record as having said Sonko was a functionally illiterate person and a drug peddler. Photo: Miguna Miguna/Twitter.

READ ALSO: Miguna Migunas brutal response to Mike Sonkos gubernatorial victory

Another factor which could also tilt the debate for or against is Miguna's dual citizenship and regularisation of his citizenship could take long.

The move to nominate Miguna came as a shock as the deported opposition figure has been a critic of the governor and has had no kind words for him.

Sonko nominated Miguna for the lucrative position of the deputy governor of Nairobi which was left vacant following the resignation of Polycarp Igathe on January 12, 2018.

The former Nairobi gubernatorial candidate and a court barrister in Canada, is on record as having labelled Sonko a functionally illiterate person and a drug peddler.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Kenyans react to Sonko's 100 days in office - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko.co.ke- KANU's Baringo county politician Kamurem ended his long relationship with party leader Gideo

- He noted it was impressive Ruto has been committed to peaceful coexistence in the region

- Ruto and Moi, both of whom are from the vast Kalenjin community have announced they will run for presidency

Deputy President William Ruto on Sunday, June 3, raided KANU and ODM camps leaving the two parties seriously crippled with political casualties.

KANU's Baringo county politician and a likely candidate in the upcoming Baringo South by-election Charles Kamuren, ended his long relationship with party leader and Baringo Senator Gideon Moi on Sunday, June 3.

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His defection and that of the Orange Democratic party notable politician Amos Olempaka will serve Moi a double hot chilly sauce while at the same time dim the senator's presidential star.

READ ALSO: Gideon Moi blamed for blocking Rutos planned meeting with ex president Daniel Moi

The two leaders defected to Jubilee during a function attended by Deputy President William Ruto. Photo: William Samoei Ruto/Twitter.

READ ALSO: Ruto deserved Mois snub, he said he didnt need his blessings- Rift Valley Kanu officials

Speaking at Marigat grounds in Baringo County during a function attended by Deputy President William Ruto, the two leaders lauded Jubilee's commitment to transforming the lives of all Kenyans regardless of party affiliations.

I am happy that I am declaring here today I have ditched KANU for Jubilee with all my supporters. We have realized that Jubilee Party is committed to peace and stability of all Kenyans including this region, said Kamurem.

The independent party politician added it was impressive the deputy president has been more than committed to peaceful coexistence among all communities living along the violence-torn Kerio Valley.

READ ALSO: Gideon Moi blamed for blocking Rutos planned meeting with ex president Daniel Moi

The defection of the two politicians will serve Moi a double hot chilly sauce while at the same time dim the senator's presidential star. Photo: Gideon Moi/Facebook.

READ ALSO: Mkewe Alfred Mutua amtambulisha dadake mrembo kwa umma

Ruto and Moi, both of whom are from the vast Kalenjin community have announced they will run for the country's top seat in 2022.

The urge to cement Rift Valley bloc under one candidate has often seen them treat their supporters to ugly verbal tirade and drama as their lieutenants try to outwit each other over control of regional politics.

On Thursday, May 3, Ruto's impromptu meeting with the senator's father, ex-president Daniel Toroitich Moi failed to materialise after he was blocked from seeing the veteran politician.

A statement sent to newsrooms later clarified the retired president had booked an appointment with his personal doctor at his Kabarak home.

Do you have a hot story or scandal you would like us to publish, please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news.

Top 5 Facts About Uhuru Kenyatta - Raila Odinga Pact - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko NewsThe Babchenko case attracted the attention of various world players to Ukraine. Sergei Lavrov in Minsk recalled the "Steinmeier formula," complete with various "horror stories" about Ukraine. Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Haiko Maas visited Kyiv. Ukraine-Poland partnership is reflected in their cooperation within the UN Security Council. Andriy Parubiy paid a visit to Israel.

A high profile SBU's sting operation which thwarted the attempt on Russian journalist and Putin critic Arkady Babchenko resonated worldwide. Moreover, Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko says it allowed revealing a list of 47 potential assassination victims. The operation demonstrated that not all international human rights and journalistic organizations understand the specifics of what is happening in Ukraine, preferring to use the traditional algorithms of "expressing concern" and criticizing the country's leadership. The same can be applied to our fellow Ukrainians. Operations such as the Babchenko Hoax pay off well in an authoritarian society or that united by a common idea, where the vast majority of the population never doubts the advisability of no-ordinary methods used by security agencies. It is also worth recalling that the trust of activists or foreign actors is not a criterion for the effectiveness of efforts by security services. It is more important for them to counter threats to the national security.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has already managed to declare the operation a "Russophobic provocation by the Ukrainian authorities," as if forgetting how they launched their propaganda machine right after the initial news on Babchenko's "death," aimed at once again trying to discredit Ukraine. Another aspect is much more interesting though: when speaking in Minsk, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov recalled the so-called "Steinmeier formula" of Donbas settlement, which has long been forgotten, even in Berlin, adding to his speech traditional boogeyman stories about "Ukraine horrors." Even a superficial analysis of Mr. Lavrov's diplomatic flow of consciousness suggests that the Kremlin is not interested in settling the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

The agreement on the June meeting of the Normandy Four foreign ministers, which the chief of German diplomacy, Haiko Maas, announced, is unlikely to mislead anyone  it's not the first time such consultations are being held, without yielding real results. However, increased attention toward Ukraine on the part of Germany is easy to explain: Berlin is interested in Ukraine lifting its objections to the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline bypassing Ukraine, and Berlin will try to make every effort to this end. So, it's not a coincidence that German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, while in Kyiv, vowed Germany would keep Ukraine in close sight during negotiations on gas transit. And almost immediately after Steinmeier's assurances, Vladimir Putin claimed that Russia was ready to preserve gas transit via Ukraine (technically, Gazprom will not be able to completely abandon it in the near future anyway) without specifying its volumes.

Although certain contradictions remain between Ukraine and Poland in terms of historical memory (they were not resolved following excavation works in Hruszowice, where human remains were found), at the international level, Kyiv and Warsaw cooperate rather effectively. Polish President Andrzej Duda stressed that it is Russia that is the main threat to peace, while Foreign Minister Jacek Czaputowicz noted that Ukraine is a victim of aggression and occupation by Russia. Besides, it was Poland who initiated a special briefing of the UN Security Council late May to discuss the situation in Donbas.

The busy agenda for the outgoing week left almost no attention to the visit of Verkhovna Rada Speaker Andriy Parubiy to Israel where he met with his counterpart, Ukraine-born Yuli Edelstein and Israeli President Reuven Rivlin. Parubiy's visit is not only of practical importance in the context of the drafting of a free trade area agreement with Israel, it can also prove to American congressmen who recently expressed concern over the "rise of anti-Semitism" in Ukraine that they were misguided, to say the least.

Yevgeny Magda of the Institute of World Policy

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterThe 1030th anniversary of the baptism of Kyivan Rus will be celebrated on July 28, 2018.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko says he hopes that the Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate will green-light granting a tomos, an official church document, on autocephaly to the Orthodox church in Ukraine by the 1030th anniversary of the baptism of Kyivan Rus, which will be celebrated on July 28, 2018.

"The victory is not only when Ukrainian land has been liberated. The victory is when for the first time, more than 300 years, Ukraine has got a real chance to create a united local Orthodox church and, most importantly, a Ukrainian church," the president said at a Prayer for Peace in Ukraine event at Almudena Cathedral, a Catholic church in Madrid, Spain.

The Ukrainian community of Spain took part in the event, the Ukrainian presidential press service said.

"And we are praying that by the 1030th anniversary of the baptism of Ukraine-Rus by the holy apostolic prince Volodymyr, the Lord will give us this tomos. And I ask you, dear brothers and sisters, for your prayers. Because miracles are created with a common prayer," Poroshenko said.

The president recalled appealing to His Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew immediately after Easter, on a Great Monday, April 9, during his visit to Istanbul.

"I would be very happy to see this happen. And in the near future, I believe that we will succeed," Poroshenko added, expressing the conviction that Ukraine has won the right to have the united local church. After all, Ukraine has paid a high price for it, he said.

Read alsoPoroshenko: Russian Patriarch not authorized to veto Ukrainian church's autocephaly

As UNIAN reported earlier, Poroshenko announced on April 17 that the heads of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyiv Patriarchate and the Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox Church had decided to officially appeal to Archbishop of Constantinople and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I for autocephaly.

Autocephaly is the status of a hierarchical Christian Church whose head bishop does not report to any higher-ranking bishop (used especially in Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Independent Catholic churches).

Autocephaly opens the way for the creation of a united Orthodox church in Ukraine, which will not be subordinate to Moscow.

The split between the Moscow and Kyiv branches of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church happened during the collapse of the Soviet Union, when Ukraine's Primate Filaret broke with the Russian Orthodox Church. He argued that an independent Ukraine deserved a national church truly independent of Moscow. The Moscow Patriarchate whose parishes prevail in Ukraine has never recognized the Ukrainian Patriarchate.Poroshenko went to Spain on the first official visit.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has announced that Ukraine and Spain are preparing to sign a new agreement on social security, and work on the relevant document is now being completed.

"At my request, the joint work is being completed on a bilateral social security agreement to replace the previous one, which was signed 22 years ago, in 1996. Just like there was no [official] visit of the Ukrainian president to Madrid, to Spain for 22 years," Poroshenko said at a meeting with the Ukrainian community of Spain in Madrid on June 3, the presidential press service said.

Read alsoPoroshenko hopes for tomos on autocephaly to local Orthodox church in Ukraine by end of July

"The signing of this agreement in the near future will allow us to remove certain problematic issues of the social sphere regarding the protection of Ukrainians and the Ukrainian community," he said.

Poroshenko also emphasized that Ukraine highly appreciates the creation of favorable conditions in Spain to ensure the cultural and educational needs of Ukrainians.The situation in the Joint Forces Operation zone remains tense, but is under control.

The Ukrainian Joint Forces eliminated three enemy fighters in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, another three enemy soldiers were wounded in the past day, on June 2.

"According to intelligence reports, three invaders were eliminated, another three were wounded," the press center of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) has said in an update on Sunday morning.

Russia's hybrid military forces continued violating the ceasefire in eastern Ukraine in the past day.

They mounted 28 attacks on the Ukrainian forces on June 2, using proscribed weapons in eight instances, the JFO press center said.

Read alsoTwo Ukrainian soldiers wounded by enemy sniper in Donbas

JFO units were actively defending themselves, firing back, however, three Ukrainian soldiers were wounded in action.

"During hostilities in the past day, three Ukrainian servicemen were wounded and hospitalized," the press center said.

Hot spots in Donbas were the towns of Avdiyivka and Maryinka, as well as the villages of Krymske, Novotoshkivske, Chermalyk, and Shyrokyne.

The situation was tense, but it was under control, the JFO headquarters said.He was back to his military base on Saturday, June 2.

A serviceman from the 36th Separate Marine Brigade of the Ukrainian Navy, who went missing after a skirmish with Russian-led forces near the village of Pavlopil in Donbas on May 27, has returned to his military base.

"The serviceman who disappeared during the fighting on May 27 in the Mariupol sector and with whom the connection was lost has safely returned to his unit," the press center of the Ukrainian Joint Forces Operation (JFO) headquarters said on Facebook on Sunday, June 3.

He was back to his military base on Saturday, June 2.

As UNIAN reported earlier, the Russian-led forces in Donbas mounted 28 attacks on the Ukrainian army on June 2, using proscribed weapons in eight instances, the JFO press center said.

Three Ukrainian soldiers were wounded in action on that day.

Hot spots in Donbas were the towns of Avdiyivka and Maryinka, as well as the villages of Krymske, Novotoshkivske, Chermalyk, and Shyrokyne.The project for installing equipment along the border, which was presented in 2015, was originally estimated at EUR 79 million.

Estonia will start creating infrastructure with surveillance equipment on the border with Russia in 2019, and total costs on the project will amount to almost EUR 190 million.

In particular, Estonia will spend EUR 188 million by 2026, a statement on the website of the Riigikogu, Estonia's parliament, said.

Read alsoTrade turnover between Ukraine, Estonia increased by almost third last year  Poroshenko

Under the project, Estonia's Ministry of the Interior partnered with the European border guard service Frontex, it said.

Earlier, the legal commission and the special commission of the parliament on supervision of security institutions examined the progress of works along a trial 3.5-km-long stretch.

According to chairman of the special commission Raivo Aeg, the planned investment should create the conditions necessary for cooperation between the Estonian law enforcement agencies, security agencies and the defense forces.

The length of Estonia's border with Russia is over 330 kilometers. The project for installing equipment along the border, which was presented in 2015, was originally estimated at EUR 79 million.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 03rd Jun, 2018) On Monday, the UAE will celebrate the annual Zayed Humanitarian Work Day on 19th Ramadan, which will coincide with the anniversary of the death of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

This years celebrations will witness the launch of important humanitarian and charity initiatives, through thousands of government and community events organised by public, private and non-governmental organisations.

Sheikh Zayed prioritised local and international humanitarian and charity issues, and the amount of aid provided by the UAE till the end of 2000, as per his directives, totalled over AED98 billion, in the form of grants, loans and assistance.

The Sheikh Zayed Suburb Project in Jerusalem, worth nearly AED15 million, is one of Sheikh Zayeds critical projects in Palestine. His other projects include the reconstruction of Jenin Camp, which cost around AED100 million, as well as the construction of Sheikh Zayed City in Gaza at the cost of AED220 million, Sheikh Khalifa City in Rafah, and the Emirati neighbourhood in Khan Younis. He also launched many hospitals, schools, health centres and centres for the disabled in Palestinian villages, camps and cities, in both Gaza and the West Bank.

The Gulf is in the heart In 1981, Sheikh Zayed chaired the summit that declared the birth of the Gulf Cooperation Council, GCC, while the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development provided loans to Bahrain worth AED160 million, to fund energy and industrial projects.

In 1972, Sheikh Zayed helped Yemen by launching Sanaa Radio, and in 1974, he presented an additional amount of US$1.71 million to maintain television and radio projects.

Under Sheikh Zayeds directives, the UAE provided emergency aid worth $3 million to Yemen to reduce the effects of floods in the 1990s.

Sheikh Zayeds directives had a significant impact on Egypt, where he established numerous projects, including the construction of tourist and residential villages and cities, cultivating agricultural land, and providing financial support to medical centres and hospitals.

Following the October 1973 War, Sheikh Zayed covered the expenses of the rebuilding of the Suez, Ismailia and Port Said, which were destroyed by the Israeli attack in 1967.

During his participation in the historic international celebrations in Aswan in 1990, Sheikh Zayed donated $20 million to revive the ancient library in Alexandria.

Sheikh Zayed aimed to strengthen the ties between the UAE and Morocco, by launching many initiatives and projects that carry his name. These projects include the Sheikh Zayed Treatment Institution and the Mariam Childrens Centre, as well as the construction of integrated residential units.

In 1976, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development provided a loan of AED40 million to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments of Morocco.

Sheikh Zayed provided generous aid to Sudan and donated BHD50,000 to establish the medical college and Nasser Hospital in Wad Madani. He also gave US$3 million to combat the effects of drought in Sudan. The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development also provided a loan of AED5.16 million towards a rural development project in Darfur, in western Sudan.

In 1999, a second relief plane with 40 tonnes of food aid arrived in Khartoum, to help those affected by floods that swept through the Sudanese state of Dongola.

The reconstruction of Lebanon and supporting Syria

Sheikh Zayed was keen to help Lebanon, via a demining initiative in Lebanon's south that was conducted at his expense.

He also wanted the UAE to play a leading role in the rebuilding process in Lebanon after the war, and the country provided financial assistance, grants and loans to key development projects.

During the era of Sheikh Zayed, the UAE supported charity and development projects in Syria, and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Arab Economic Development signed three agreements in Damascus to fund three industrial projects, worth AED911 million.

In Pakistan, the cities of Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar are home to three Islamic centres that were established by Sheikh Zayed to promote Islamic and Arab culture among Pakistanis. He also contributed to the paving and widening of the mountain road in Kharan, the construction of the Dali Mosque, the digging of water wells, and the launching of schools and houses.

Sheikh Zayed donated $500,000 in 1982 to establish the Islamic Chamber for Commerce and Industry in Karachi and provided medical aid, scholarships and urgent assistance to earthquake and flood victims.

Emirati charity projects during the era of Sheikh Zayed were not limited to Arab and Islamic countries, and they also covered the developed world. In 1992, the UAE donated $5 million to the United States, US, Disaster Relief Fund, to help the victims of Hurricane Andrew that hit the state of Florida.

Sheikh Zayed also supported Bosnia and Herzegovina. On 26th April 1993, he provided the country with $10 million to rescue its people from their tragic conditions. He also ordered the shipment of relief aid that included food and medical assistance, and he instructed UAE hospitals to receive injured people for treatment while covering the accommodation expenses of dozens of families in fully equipped apartments and providing them with job opportunities.

In May 1990, an agreement was signed to establish an Islamic printing house in the Chinese capital, Beijing, through an AED3.1 million grant from Sheikh Zayed to support Chinese Muslims. He also donated $500,000 to support the UAE-China Friendship Association.

In 1999, under the directives of Sheikh Zayed, a relief plane flew to Greece from Abu Dhabi to help those affected by an earthquake that hit the country.

In 2000, under the directives of Sheikh Zayed, the Emirates Red Crescent, ERC, distributed meat to refugees from Chechnya in Ingushetia. The Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation provided 145 tonnes of food aid to those affected by famine in the Horn of Africa, and the UAE Cabinet offered emergency aid worth $100,000 to those affected people by an earthquake that hit Guatemala.

Sheikh Zayed keenly supported international and Islamic organisations, and he donated $50,000 after the establishment of the Union to support the activities of the United Nations Children's Fund, UNICEF.

The UAE donated $424,000 to the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, $100,000 to UNICEF, and $54,000 to the United Nations Refugee Agency, UNHCR.

Sheikh Zayed also increased the capital of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Arab Economic Development to $500 million.

In 1974, the UAE provided 10 million Islamic Dinars to the Islamic Development Bank and presented an interest-free loan to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO, worth $2.4 million. In 1982, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development supported the Senegal River Basin Organisation with a loan of AED259 million.ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 03rd Jun, 2018) The value of relief and humanitarian programmes that were implemented due to the directives of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, through the Emirates Red Crescent, ERC, from 1993 to 2003, reached AED1.8 billion, which benefited 21 countries, while its developmental projects, valued at AED595.7 million benefitted Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo.

Over its history of humanitarian giving, the ERC was supported and patronised by Sheikh Zayed, who made the UAE a leader in charity work and harnessed the countrys resources and his peoples energies to promote giving, protect others from harm and fulfil their needs, and combat hunger, poverty, ignorance and disease.

Under the directives of Sheikh Zayed, the ERC launched relief programmes in 21 countries suffering from disasters and crises, including Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo.

The value of the ERCs development projects in Palestine, including the West Bank and Gaza Strip, which witnessed tragic events during this period, reached AED537.8 million These projects included the reconstruction of the Jenin Camp, under the directives of Sheikh Zayed, as well as the establishment of the Sheikh Zayed Suburb in Jerusalem, the Sheikha Salama Eye Hospital in Nablus, and the Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Jerusalem, and the reconstruct of the Al Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Nativity and the launch of the Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Ramallah and Sheikh Zayed City in Gaza.

While Iraq suffered from the events of this period, Sheikh Zayed issued clear directives to support the Iraqi people in overcoming their conditions. Based on his directives, many humanitarian programmes and charity and development projects were implemented, costing AED172 million, and the ERC conducted many activities to limit the suffering of the Iraqi people and improve their humanitarian conditions, as the war created a tragedy that affected all Iraqis, especially the women and children, who witnessed the rapid deterioration of their country, where services became non-existent, especially healthcare.

By implementing the directives of Sheikh Zayed, the ERC harnessed its capabilities, crowded its energies, activated its mechanisms and implemented humanitarian programmes that answered the needs of Iraqis and helped ease their tragedy. The ERCs determination and its programmes and projects enabled it to meet its humanitarian responsibilities, and their various assistance and relief services kept pace with the countrys deteriorating health conditions and the increasing numbers of those wounded, who filled the countrys hospitals that were unable to provide the necessary healthcare, due to the lack of medicine and medical supplies.

Due to these difficulties, Sheik Zayeds initiatives came at the right time, and he ordered the establishment of the Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Baghdad, and equipped seven other Iraqi hospitals - Najaf Hospital, Karbala Hospital, Al Anbar Hospital, Samarra Hospital, Erbil Hospital, Rutbah Hospital, and Ibn Rushd Psychiatric Hospital - with specialist equipment, medicines, and health and medical supplies.

Sheikh Zayed also provided the Iraqi health sector with 12 ambulances, as well as black fever vaccines and medical equipment to detect cholera and malaria in Iraqi hospitals. When the residents of Basra and its neighbouring areas suffered from a lack of clean water, Sheikh Zayed ordered the rapid construction of three water purification plants in Shatt Al Arab, with a daily capacity of 700,000 gallons, which answered the needs of around 300,000 people for clean drinking water.

When the crisis hit the Afghan people, who have suffered from over 20 years of wars and conflicts that tore the fabric of Afghan community and made Afghan families refugees in neighbouring countries, as well as years of poverty and drought during the 1990s that caused the displacement of millions of people to search for food and a better life, Sheikh Zayed realised the size of the disaster and its effects on the Afghan people, especially on women, children and the elderly, so he issued directives to implement humanitarian and developmental programmes that will answer the needs of those aggrieved and improve their deteriorating humanitarian conditions. The ERC, with Sheikh Zayeds support, immediately performed and is still performing its role in Afghanistan.

The value of its development projects that were launched during this period reached AED22.

9 million which included the Sheikh Zayed City Project in Kabul, comprising 200 residences, a mosque and two schools, as well as the establishment of many mosques, the digging of hundreds of wells, the reconstruction of the Afghan Red Crescent Hospital, and the restoration of an orphanage managed by the Afghan Red Crescent.

The ERCs relief programmes included providing food, clothes and medicine to victims and the homeless, through 41 airlifts that transported various relief materials to Quetta in Pakistan, Mashhad in Iran, and Kabul and Mazar-i-Sharif in Afghanistan, as well as establishing a camp for Afghan refugees in the Chaman region of Pakistan on its border with Afghanistan. The camp provided over 10,000 refugees with essential services, including shelter, relief, health and education.

The bloody events that took place in the Balkans affected millions of families, who were displaced, torn apart by war and faced many tragedies, which are still fresh in the minds of the regions people. The UAE was always present and responded first to help refugees in Albania and Bosnia and support victims of the humanitarian disaster. Under the directives of Sheikh Zayed, the ERC launched a humanitarian programme to provide aid to the Kosovan people and recruited volunteers, workers and its members to assist Kosovans, ease their suffering, and help refugees in camps that are full of misery and hardship. The ERCs assistance included thousands of tonnes of food and basic supplies, as well as shelter materials, such as tents, blankets, covers and clothes, which helped children, women and the elderly in the camps.

Under the directives of Sheikh Zayed, the ERC launched a relief programme to support Kosovan refugees, which included 83 aircraft that transported relief materials. It also opened an office in Gjakova, which provided for the needs of 56,000 people local residents and distributed relief materials to the residents of the neighbouring cities of Decan, Peya, Mitrovica, and Pediva, as well as the capital, Pri?tina. The ERC then moved its office to Vushtrri, where its humanitarian services assisted orphans, the disabled, poor families, the families of missing people, and various ethnic minorities.

Kosovo witnessed the destruction of homes, possessions and all types of infrastructure, and after the ERC completed its relief programmes that helped to return stability, the second stage of its initiative began which the reconstruction of the homes of returning families, which enabled them to enjoy stability and a dignified life. In September 1999, the ERC launched a construction project that included over 15 cities and villages in various parts of Kosovo, which saw the reconstruction of 382 houses over three months.

The "White Hands Force" of the Armed Forces cooperated with the ERC to establish the Cox Refugee Camp in Kosovo on 13th April, 1999, which included 520 tents and had the capacity of 10,000 refugees, the first batch of whom were received on 27th April of the same year. The camp provided essential services, such as water and electricity, and a school was established that accommodated 2,000 children who were provided with school supplies, and 70 Kosovan teachers were appointed with monthly salaries. The camp also housed a field hospital with a capacity of 200 beds and essential medical supplies.

During his visit to Cox Camp on 20th May, 1999, Kofi Annan, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations, UN, stated that Sheikh Zayed was a leading international leader, due to his brave actions to support Arab and international causes. "The Sheikh Zayed Airport, established by the UAE, is the best assistance offered by any country since the start of the Kosovo crisis, and it has helped to transport assistance and relief aid. If not for the airport, UN aircraft could not have taken off or landed," Annan said.

Under the directives of Sheikh Zayed, the ERC undertook relief programmes worth AED39.4 million in Jordan; AED12.9 million in Algeria; AED51.3 million in Sudan; AED110.2 million in Somalia; AED58.1 million in Iraq;AED18.9 million in Morocco; AED110.4 million in Yemen;AED106.7 million in Afghanistan;AED117.9 million in Indonesia; AED53.8 million in Pakistan;AED6.5 million in Bangladesh; AED9.1 million in Tanzania; AED4.8 million in Djibouti; AED32 million in Sri Lanka; AED12.5 million in Syria; AED43.6 million in Ghana; AED141.3 million in Lebanon; AED15.6 million in Mauritania; AED80.6 million in Kosovo and AED102.5 million in Bosnia.ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 03rd Jun, 2018) The UAE will proudly celebrate the annual Zayed Humanitarian Work Day on 19th Ramadan, and to mark the occasion, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation stated in a report, titled, "The Achievements of Emirati Diplomacy in Foreign Aid".

The day of celebration will witness the unity of the UAEs people and wise leadership in commemorating the memory of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan while expressing their loyalty to his unique journey of giving and promoting the UAEs humanitarian position.

The Zayed Humanitarian Work Day is a milestone in the history of the UAE, as well as an occasion to remember and recognise the humanitarian achievements of the UAEs diplomacy and its assistance to the people of other countries.

Sheikh Zayed is a symbol of humanitarian giving, as his initiatives served the whole of humanity and reinforced the UAEs role as a global model to follow of humanitarian and development work.

Sheikh Zayed loved charity work and prioritised humanitarian and charity projects. "We believe that we should support our friends and brothers with the wealth that Allah Almighty gave us," he said.

After the establishment of the UAE, the scope of his charity work widened to include the entire world, and the value of his humanitarian and development aid, from 1971 to 2004, amounted to AED90.5 billion, which benefitted 117 countries, according to a previous official report.

The UAE provides humanitarian aid to many countries, without discrimination based on the political approaches of beneficiary countries, as well as on location, race, colour or religion.

The UAE is continuing to follow Sheikh Zayeds legacy of giving, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan,the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

"We are following in the footsteps of the father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to provide humanitarian and development aid, which is a key component of the UAEs foreign policy. The country will continue following its cultural approach in its relations with other countries, and call for justice for the oppressed, and build bridges of love and cooperation between various people, to achieve peace and prosperity," His Highness Sheikh Khalifa said.

By implementing this vision and the values of Sheikh Zayed, the UAE, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa, has accomplished many humanitarian achievements and occupied the first position as the largest donor of foreign aid in the world in 2017, according to recent statistics from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, OECD.

In 2017, the total value of official development aid expenses provided by the UAE amounted to AED19.32 billion (US$5.26 billion), an 18.1 percent growth compared to 2016.

Over half of this aid, or 54 percent, came in the form of non-refunded grants, which supported the development plans of beneficiary countries.

Over 94 percent of the UAEs official developmental assistance in 2017 was valued at AED18.3 billion while 68 percent of this assistance, or AED12.38 billion, supported public programmes and assisted the governments of beneficiary countries, which included Yemen, Jordan, Morocco, Sudan, the Palestinian Authority and Serbia, to meet their public expenditure and maintain their balance of payments, as well as to strengthen their financial and monetary stability and investment environment and serve their other development goals and plans.

The UAEs assistance also helped to fund infrastructure projects in many developing countries, through the launch of urban development, transport infrastructure, health, education and renewable energy programmes.

Despite its increasing regional humanitarian assistance, the UAE is continuing to support international humanitarian causes and keeping pace with events and crises.

These humanitarian accomplishments coincide with the UAEs celebration of the Sheikh Zayeds Centennial and the declaration of 2018 as the Year of Zayed while highlighting its efforts to work according to a clear vision and plan, with the aim of improving the outcomes of its assistance, easing the humanitarian conditions in beneficiary countries, and developing fragile and weak communities, through launching projects that comply with the countrys sustainable developmental goals and the International Agenda 2030, which focus on combating hunger and poverty and empowering women and girls.

The UAE humanitarian assistance to Yemen: A model From April 2015 to April 2018, the UAE offered aid to Yemen worth AED13.82 billion ($3.76 billion) and assisted over 13.8 million Yemenis, including 5.3 million children.

This assistance is part of the UAEs humanitarian and developmental response to the current crisis, and its efforts to assist Yemen in overcoming its ordeal, supporting its stability, and preserving its unity.

Over a quarter of the value of the UAEs aid was offered to all parts of Yemen, with the aim of supporting the countrys long-term needs, through funding various sectors, supporting public programmes, providing energy, transport and storage services, achieving government, civil society, judicial and legal development, and promoting health and education.

The UAE assistance also supported 12 Yemeni governorates by restoring their key infrastructure, such as the airports in Aden, Riyan and Socotra, as well as the seaports in Aden, Mukalla, Socotra and Mocha. The UAEs assistance has also helped to rebuild and rehabilitate 218 schools, provide over 232,000 tonnes of food aid to around 10,000 daily beneficiaries, maintain 46 hospitals and health centres, provide more than 300,000 tonnes of medical assistance, rehabilitate and maintain 12 electricity plants that provide 635 megawatts of energy, restore nine water plants and networks containing 80 pumps, rehabilitate four sewage treatment plants, construct 250 water dams, provide polio and measles vaccinations to over 488,000 children, deliver 74 ambulances and over 500 police vehicles to support local security organisations, as well as 70 buses to support the education sector, and rehabilitate 19 police stations.

The UAEs assistance aims to support the "UN Yemen: Humanitarian Response Plan 2018," and the UAE pledged $500 million to respond to the "UN Plan YHRP 2018" in Yemen, of which $465 million, or 93 percent, has been spent.

The UAE also pledged a sum of $543 million to multilateral organisations working in Yemen, which include $500 to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, OCHA, $23.7 million to the World Health Organisation, WHO, $10 million to the International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC, $6 million to the United Nations World Food Programme, and $ 2 million to the United Nations Childrens Fund, UNICEF.

The UAEs foreign aid has assisted 188 countries, through effective global multi-initiatives, international partnerships and humanitarian services.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Jun, 2018 ) :Professional beggars are having a roaring business in the holy month of Ramadan, as the police and administration could not eliminate begging particularly professional.

City Traffic Police (CTP) claimed to have launched an operation against professional beggars and succeeded to net over 2200 in May especially during Ramadan ul Mubarik.

Now a days, groups of beggars mostly women and children are seen begging in markets, shopping centers, roads and streets of the city.

The shopping malls in the town are also amongst the choicest business locations of these beggars.

It is said that no ordinary beggar could do business at such sought out locations, because they are covertly 'auctioned' by corrupt elements in police and other related departments for large sums of money called 'Bhatta' (extortion).

The beggars are witnessed everywhere particularly in the town. Several groups of beggars have occupied main traffic signals of the city where one can see a lot of children and women thronging at vehicles asking for alms. The beggars use new techniques to attract people as their sole purpose is to take money from them.

Professional beggary is becoming a social menace as more and more beggars including physically fit, healthy and young men, women and children are turning towards this profession.

Mosques and other religious places are also amongst the most profitable sources for the professional beggars.

A large number of men, women and children beg regularly at roads and streets from dawn to dusk.

Mostly these are very professional and expert beggars. Though, several drives were launched against professional beggars in the past, but the police and authorities concerned had failed to take a serious and visible action against the professional beggars.

The real deserving poor people should be provided maximum institutionalized help during this drive, while the mafias running large groups of professional beggars should be taken to the task.

In Rawalpindi, especially on busy places like Raja Bazar, Saddar bazar, Committee Chowk, Mareer Chowk, sixth road chowk, Tench Bhatta, Lal Kurti, Dhoke Syedan, commuters and drivers face irritation on roads as a large number of beggars seek financial support claiming they are not professional. Beggars sometime also turn nasty towards the customers.

City Traffic Police (CTP) claimed to have launched grand operation against professional beggars and rounded up over 2200 beggars from city roads during May particularly in Ramadan ul Mubarik while cases were also registered against the professional beggars.

According to Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Rawalpindi, Bilal Iftikhar, the beggars were handed over to Civil Line, Cantt, City and Women Police Stations where cases were registered against the rules violators.

He said, the CTP were trying to eliminate the begging from the city roads and during its efforts, as many as 2200 beggars were rounded up and handed over to district police.

He informed that three beggar children netted from the city roads were handed over to Child Protection Bureau (CPB).

He further said that special anti-beggars squad of CTP and Rawalpindi district police is conducting raids at different roads and intersections and action in accordance with the law is taken against beggars.

Directives had also been issued to the squad to register cases against the beggars and the report in this regard should be sent to CTO office on daily basis, he said.

The citizens can also use CTP helpline 051-9272616 to get registered their complaints against professional beggars.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Jun, 2018 ) :Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) is making all out efforts to promote tourism inPakistan said Managing Director (MD), PTDC, Chaudhary Abdul Ghafoor.

Attending a seminar on Tajikistan- "The land of opportunities for Tourism Industry organized herethe other day by the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan with the cooperation of PTDC, he appreciated the electronic visa system introduced by Tajikistan.

The facility is providing great relief to foreign people particularly tourists forgetting visa of Tajikistan online, he added.

The new electronic visa system, Managing Director said, has also ended hardships for the tourists to stand in queues for hours.

It is also facilitating the process of obtaining a visa of Tajikistan and increasing the number of tourists in various countries.

Pointing towards participation of leading tour operators, travel agents and hoteliers in the seminar Ghafoor Khan said that it could bring good effects in tourism sector.

He also hoped that all these would definitely play positive, practical and effective role in promoting tourism in Pakistan.

The holding of such events through joint cooperation would ultimately create good impact in the economy sector of Pakistan and Tajikistan besides making improvement of relations between the two countries.

The Ambassador of Republic of Tajikistan, Shirali Jononv on the occasion highlighted the importance of tourism and said it plays an important role in generating GDP, revitalizing foreign trade balance, creating avenues of employment and additional jobs.

Similarly, tourism promotes the development of various sectors such as transport, communications, culture, arts, production of consumer's goods and other sectors of the economy in most of the countries.

The Ambassador appreciated the Managing Director, Ghafoor Khan for making good arrangements for the seminar organized by Tajikistan Embassy.

Hailing the scenic beauty in Pakistan surrounded with mountains, parks, lakes, rivers and deserts, the ambassador said that Tajikistan has also rich historical and cultural inheritances and natural resources besides having a real potential for encouragement of more tourists to the country.

Continuing Sherali Jononov said that tourism is recognized as one of the highly profitable area of the world economy and indeed economic phenomena of the 20th Century.

He said that despite the ever increasing and unpredictable shocks from terrorist attacks and political instability, to health pandemics and natural disasters, travel and tourism continued to show its resilience in 2016, contributing direct GDP growth of 3.1 per cent and supporting six million net additional jobs in the sector.

In total, travel and tourism generated US Dollar 7.6 trillion (10.2 per cent of global GDP) and 292 million jobs in 2016, equivalent to one in 10 jobs in the global economy.

Moreover, over the longer term, growth of the travel and tourism sectorwould continue to be strong so long as the investment and development takes place in an open and sustainable manner.

In doing so, not only could we expect the sector to support over 380 million jobs by 2027, but it would continue to grow its economic contribution, providing the rationale for the further protection of nature, habitats and bio diversity, he added.SEOUL, June 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Jun, 2018 ) :South Korea and China agreed to double-track a key air corridor between Incheon and Mongolia with the aim of greatly reducing flight delays in order to benefit travelers, the government said Sunday.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said the agreement was reached at a working level meeting in Seoul, with the change to be implemented by the end of the year, said a Yonhap news agency.

The double-tracking will cover the 1,700 kilometers of the airway that is used by planes flying mostly to Mongolia, the middle East, Russia and Europe from East Asia.

The ministry said one-way traffic will be observed to improve the flow of planes and flight safety.

In 2016 some 150,000 planes used the route, up from 128,000 in 2014.

Aviation experts said that due to the large number of planes on the route and the need to maintain safe distance between each jet, delays in flights from Incheon International Airport are very common.

There were 1,344 flights that were delayed for more than an hour in 2016 due to congestion on the airway.

The ministry said that the decision to double-track the route can help 144,000 flights per year, with some 37 percent of the flights being South Korean flag carriers.

Seoul has been engaged in talks with Beijing on the issues since 2010 with the latest decision coming on the heels of a pact to double-track air routes to Southeast Asia.

This image shows planned double-tracking of the air route between Incheon in South Korea and Mongolia.Pope Francis appeals for peace in Nicaragua as the death toll from a government crackdown on protesters rises to 110, expressing his sorrow for the violence taking place in the Latin American nation.

By Devin Watkins

Pope Francis at the Sunday Angelus address appealed for peace in Nicaragua and expressed his deep sorrow for the violence that has caused many deaths and injuries.

Uniting himself to the concerns of the country's bishops, the Pope called for an end to all violence and prayed for the victims and their families.

He said the Church is always in favor of dialogue but that it requires active engagement in respect for freedom and, above all, life.



Nicaragua has seen widespread protests after President Daniel Ortega cut pensions and social security in April. He quickly revoked the legislation, but he himself then became the focus of the protests.

Church siege



On Saturday, police laid siege to a Catholic church in Masaya, some 20km south of the capital Managua, after around 30 opposition supporters sought refuge there. They had been attacked by riot police and pro-government militias.

Two people died in the church before local Church authorities intervened and those holed up there were released.

Report by Devin Watkins

Bishop Silvio Jose Baez, Auxiliary of the Archdiocese of Managua, praised the local priest in Masaya, Edwing Roman, and a human rights activist, Alvaro Leiva, for their efforts in negotiating with Nicaraguan authorities.

He also urged President Ortega to end the crackdown on protests against his government.

US citizen killed



Also on Saturday, a United States citizen was found shot to death in Managua. The body of Sixto Henry Vera was found lying dead in the street beside two burned vehicles with a bullet wound to the head.

At least 110 people have been killed since protests began in April.

Bishops suspend talks



Earlier this week, Nicaraguas bishops said they would not return to national dialogue talks called by President Daniel Ortega until certain conditions were met. We cannot restart talks while the Nicaraguan people are denied their right to demonstrate peacefully and while civilians continue to be oppressed and assassinated.

The bishops condemnation came in a statement released on Thursday in Managua.

At least 15 people were killed and more than 200 others injured on Wednesday during protests against President Ortega. Witnesses said pro-government armed groups opened fire on civilian marchers.

Deep sorrow



Nicaraguas bishops offered themselves as mediators between the government and protesters, saying they have experienced the violent acts with deep sorrow.

We firmly condemn these violent acts, which are opposed to free and peaceful protests, the bishops say. And we absolutely reject this organized and systematic aggression against civilians, which has left dozens injured and several dead.Press Conference USA Host Carol Castiel and VOA Mandarin Service Business Reporter Jingxun Li talk about the implications of President Trumps trade policy with William Reinsch, a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Reinsch served 15 years as president of the National Foreign Trade Council and served as the Under Secretary of Commerce for export administration during the Clinton administration.Iran's foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, is calling the U.S. pullout from the nuclear deal illegal and urging other signatories not to follow its lead.

State-run Iranian media said Sunday Zarif sent a letter to the foreign ministers of the remaining nations in the agreement - Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, asking them to "make up" for the Iranian losses brought on by the U.S. withdrawal if they want to save the deal.

Zarif called the 2015 nuclear agreement the result of "accurate, sensitive and balanced multilateral talks."

"The illegal withdrawal of the U.S. government ... especially bullying methods used by this government to bring other governments in line, has discredited the rule of law while challenging the principles of the U.N. charter and efficiency of international bodies," Zarif wrote.

President Donald Trump announced last month the United States was dropping out of what he calls a "horrible one-sided deal" that gives all the advantages to Iran.

Trump says the agreement, negotiated in part by the Obama administration, would allow Iran to resume some of its nuclear program in the next decade. He says it also does nothing to rein in Iran's ballistic missile program or its support for extremists across the Middle East, including the Syrian regime.

Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu both accuse Iran of violating the nuclear agreement - a claim refuted by international inspectors.

Trump has threatened to reimpose sanctions on Iran.A transport policeman was one of the first to intervene as three assailants armed with long ceramic knives went on a stabbing frenzy after driving their transit van at people near London Bridge.

Reacting to screams, he rushed to confront the attackers, who stabbed him several times, slicing and lunging at his head, legs and arms, leaving him temporarily blind and crippled.

A year on from the terror attack in the Borough district of London, Wayne Marques is still recovering and has only recently been able to walk independently. In a video released this week he said he hopes to return to work next month, but admitted he has some rehabilitation to go. He concedes his family has concerns about his desire to work but says: Its a job that I enjoy. Its who I am, to be honest.

On the first anniversary of the London Bridge attack that left eight people dead and 48 others injured, tales of heroism and loss were shared Sunday in newspaper articles, broadcast reports and at a memorial service to honor the victims of a stabbing rampage carried out by three young men in the name of jihad.

Mourning, remembering

The words London United were projected onto the bridge Sunday as British Prime Minister Theresa May noted that among the eight people killed, seven were foreign nationals, a tragic reminder that the threat from terrorism transcends borders and impacts us all, she said.

In a statement the British leader added: My message to those who target our way of life or try to divide us is clear: Our resolve to stand firm and overcome this threat together has never been stronger.

As Londoners marked the anniversary of the attack, mourning the dead and recalling acts of bravery like the intervention of PC Marques, senior counter-terror officers warned resolve will indeed be needed. The country, they said, is still facing a very significant security threat, and they revealed Britains security agencies have thwarted roughly a terror plot every month the past year.

Vigilance urged

They said Britain cant let its guard down and urged all members of the public to remain vigilant.

The police and security services are working extremely hard, foiling and disrupting terrorist attacks all the time, Dean Haydon, deputy assistant commissioner in Londons Metropolitan Police, told Britains Sky News.

Britains Interior Minister Sajid Javid is to unveil Monday new security measures including the hiring of an extra 1,000 intelligence officers to help keep suspected extremists under better surveillance. His officials say Britains police and security agencies are running at any one time more than 500 live operations focusing on 3,000 subjects of interest.

Under Javids proposals, British jihadists will be monitored more closely and given longer prison sentences on conviction. Technology companies will be required to do considerably more to tackle extremist content posted on their social-media sites. The package of measures includes plans to fast track extremists to prison even before they have finalized attacks plans.

The proposals stem from a yearlong review of Britains counterterror strategy, which found security lapses and a failure to join up intelligence data.

The suicide bombing at the Manchester arena last year, which left 22 people dead, could have been averted the review concluded, if two pieces of crucial information about the bomber, Salman Abedi, had been linked. The strategy focuses on improving data sharing and on the need to spot the importance of suspected militants who may have been overlooked or have become re-radicalized after monitoring of them has ended.

The counterterror strategy to be published Monday concludes: We expect the threat from Islamist terrorism to remain at its current, heightened level for at least the next two years, and that it may increase.

Other terror groups

But it isnt only Islamic extremism worrying Britains counterterror officers. The strategy also warns the threat from extreme right-wing terrorism is growing.

For the foreseeable future, though, counterterror analysts say that despite the defeat of the Islamic State group on the battlefield and the dismantling of its self-proclaimed state in Syria and Iraq, Islamist extremists remain the biggest threat to Britain and other European states.

Islamic States surviving leaders are desperate to be seen as a major force, say analysts, and continue to encourage and instruct followers to mount attacks in the West, like the recent attack by a lone wolf militant in the Belgian city of Liege that left three dead, including two female police officers.China is warning the United States any trade and business agreements between the two countries will be void if President Donald Trump carries out his threats to impose tariff hikes and other trade measures.

The warning came after U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Chinese Deputy Prime Minister Liu He ended a new round of talks Sunday in Beijing aimed at settling a simmering trade dispute, in which Beijing pledged to buy more American products to narrow its trade surplus with the United States. The Chinese trade surplus reached $375 billion last year.

No joint statement was issued and neither side released details.

"Our meetings so far have been friendly and frank," Ross said at the start of the talks, "and covered some useful topics about specific export items" China might buy.

Chinese envoys had promised after the last high-level meeting in Washington in mid-May to buy more American farm goods and energy products.

Ross was accompanied by agricultural, treasury and trade officials.



Liu's delegation included China's central bank governor and commerce minister.

There was no indication whether the talks also took up American complaints that Beijing steals from or pressures foreign companies.

Trump is threatening to hike duties on up to $150 billion of Chinese imports, with Beijing vowing to retaliate in kind.

The White House renewed a threat last week to hike duties on $50 billion of Chinese technology-related goods in that dispute.'

WATCH: US China trade

The state-run Chinese newspaper Global Times contended in an editorial that, "Tariffs and expanding exports - the United States can't have both. China-U.S. trade negotiations have to dig up the two sides' greatest number of common interests, and cannot be tilted toward unilateral U.S. interests."

While the U.S.-China trade and tariff disputes remain unresolved, Trump last week imposed new tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from the European Union, Canada and Mexico, angering three key U.S. allies who vowed to retaliate by imposing new duties on American goods.With the spires of Washington's National Cathedral overhead, supporters of refugees gathered Saturday morning for the first of what organizers hope will become a regular event: a day of art, music and dance designed to "shift the narrative" about refugees in the United States.

Among the first to perform on the main stage were two Mexican-American teenagers from Baltimore, stomping to Mexican folk dances as their mother watched from the lawn, recording on her phone to send to their grandparents.

"I think everybody is a refugee, you know?" said Dalila, whose parents came to the U.S. from Mexico in the 1970s. "Everybody's trying to get away from a bad situation  if it's war, hunger.  That's why our parents came to this country."

The One Journey Festival is supposed to do exactly that, said co-founder Wendy Chen: Create the feeling that "we are all one."

Chen, herself an immigrant who came to the country at 12 years old from China, insisted the event wasn't political, despite coming at a time when the Trump administration has made dramatic cuts to the refugee program.

Sharing experiences

Instead, those changes made since early 2017 ramped up enthusiasm among the 140 volunteers running information booths and art installations at Saturday's event to draw attendees closer to what refugees experience, said Chen.

One Journey was founded in 2017 by two American immigrants who wanted to share with others the positive, welcoming reception they received as newcomers.

"This particular moment helped us gain the grass-roots recognition and support that we're seeing today," she added.

In 17 months, Trump's Cabinet has carried out his repeated orders to limit travelers  including refugees  from coming to the U.S., dramatically lowering the number of refugees granted visas.

The president contends the need to protect national security justifies the travel bans, despite a lack of data to support the safety concerns regarding refugees.

Randy Hollerith, dean of the Washington National Cathedral  a church that has hosted funerals and memorials for several U.S. presidents  was pointed in his remarks to hundreds of attendees scattered across a leafy park in front of the sanctuary.

"When I hear people in this town say that refugees are some sort of danger, or threat to national security, or are unwelcome in our streets, I have one very clear message: That kind of thinking is as un-American as it is un-Christian," Hollerith told the crowd, prompting cheers and applause.

Among the young families picnicking at the event was Urna Naranbat, a native of Mongolia; her partner, born in Vietnam; and their three U.S.-born daughters, ages 2, 4 and 6.

They came out to support a relative running one of the food trucks, which were selling items to spectators taking a break from watching dance troupes and a choir made up of former refugee girls.

Reasons for hope

In the last few years, Naranbat said, she and her partner had wondered more about how to discuss racism, bigotry and anti-immigrant attitudes with their girls.

"We have small kids. We're like, 'OK, what's it going to be like for them?' " she said.

Events like One Journey, and the Women's March in Washington in January 2017, let her mind take a break from worrying as much.

"You see that ... there's hope," Naranbat said, watching her girls playing around a tree, all three oblivious to the speaker on the main stage talking about Afghan refugees as they made a new friend nearby.

"There's going to be people who fight back," she added. "So now, it's like  hope."The president of a leading Baptist seminary in Texas was dismissed because of his response to two rape allegations made years apart by students, according to officials at the Fort Worth-based school.

Kevin Ueckert, board chairman for Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, in a statement Friday criticized the actions of former President Paige Patterson.

Ueckert said Patterson sent an email to the head of campus security in 2015 to say he wanted to meet alone with a student who told him she had been raped, to break her down.

The attitude expressed by Patterson in the email was antithetical to the core values of our faith, Ueckert said.

Patterson also was criticized by the board for his response to a students allegation of rape in 2003 when Patterson was president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina.

That allegation was never reported to law enforcement, and Ueckert said Patterson gave contradictory information to the board when asked about it.

A working phone number for Patterson could not be found Saturday to answer the allegations.

Documents returned

Also contributing to the downfall of one of the leading figures of the Southern Baptist Convention were documents requested by the North Carolina school.

Southeastern Baptist had requested the return of any school records Patterson took with him when he departed to become president of Southwestern Baptist in 2003. Through an attorney, Patterson initially claimed last month not to have any such records, Ueckert said. But then the attorney later provided records clearly indicating they belonged to Southeastern Baptist, the board chairman said.

Shortly after the records were turned over, the wife of Pattersons chief of staff posted them online as part of a blog entry, Ueckert said. The records included the names of students and other information not authorized for release by officials at either school, he said.

I believe this was inappropriate and unethical, Ueckert said.

President emeritus briefly

The Fort Worth seminary initially named the 75-year-old Patterson as president emeritus May 23 after pushing him out of his position as president. The board at the time said that he and his wife could continue to live on campus as theologians-in-residence. But trustees later cut all ties after confirming the new allegations against him, officials previously said.

Patterson had drawn scrutiny in recent months based on accusations that he made remarks about a teenage girls body, said female seminarians should work hard to look attractive and argued that abused women should almost always stay with their husbands.

The comments led to a letter from a group of concerned Southern Baptist women dated May 6 to the board, asking trustees to exercise the authority you have been given by the churches of the Southern Baptist Convention and to take a strong stand against unbiblical teaching regarding womanhood, sexuality and domestic violence.

Patterson issued an apology days later: I wish to apologize to every woman who has been wounded by anything I have said that was inappropriate or that lacked clarity, his statement said. Please forgive the failure to be as thoughtful and careful in my extemporaneous expression as I should have been.Families of Chinese democracy protesters killed in the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown have urged President Xi Jinping to acknowledge their suffering and "re-evaluate the June Fourth massacre" as its 29th anniversary approaches.

Open discussion of the crackdown is forbidden in China, where hundreds -- by some estimates more than a thousand -- died when the Communist Party sent tanks to crush demonstrations in the square in Beijing on June 4, 1989, after student-led protesters had staged a peaceful seven-week sit-in to demand democratic reforms.

In an open letter to Xi dated "the eve of 2018 June 4th", the Tiananmen Mothers, an association of parents who lost children in the violence, said: "each year when we would commemorate our loved ones, we are all monitored, put under surveillance, or forced to travel".

"No one from the successive governments over the past 29 years has ever asked after us, and not one word of apology has been spoken from anyone, as if the massacre that shocked the world never happened," said the letter, which was released on Thursday by the non-profit Human Rights in China.

"The 1989 June Fourth bloody massacre is a crime the state committed against the people. Therefore, it is necessary to re-evaluate the June Fourth massacre," the letter said, calling for "truth, compensation, and accountability" from the government.

The protests are branded a "counter-revolutionary rebellion" by Chinese authorities and many on the mainland remain unaware of the crackdown, with discussion banned from books, textbooks, movies and censored on social networks.

The semi-autonomous territory of Hong Kong is the only place on Chinese soil where the anniversary is openly marked with a famous vigil in Victoria Park on June 4 each year.U.S. President Donald Trump's attorney Rudy Giuliani says it is an "open question" whether Trump will answer questions from investigators probing Russian meddling in the 2016 election, but that his legal team is leaning to not allowing him to be interviewed.

Trump has long said he wants to answer questions from special counsel Robert Mueller, but on Sunday Giuliani told ABC News, "It's beginning to get resolved" to not permitting the U.S. leader to sit for questioning. Giuliani has suggested Trump could be caught in a perjury trap, and charged with lying under oath, a criminal offense.

Giuliani, a former New York City mayor, said Trump's legal team might allow an interview if it is "brief, to the point," but are "leaning to not."

Trump lawyers contended in a 20-page letter to Mueller in January, before Giuliani joined the president's legal team, that he cannot be compelled to testify through a subpoena and argued he could not have obstructed justice by firing FBI director James Comey when he was leading the Russia investigation because as president he has unlimited power to terminate the investigation.

Giuliani called the letter, first disclosed Saturday by The New York Times, "very, very persuasive," but said Trump's lawyers would contest in court any attempt to subpoena Trump to answer questions.

Giuliani said Trump's lawyers would tell Mueller's team that "you've got everything you need, 1.4 million documents, 28 witnesses" to conclude its investigation.

"So we'll say, 'Come on, own up and make your decision," Giuliani said. Adding, Trump "believes he's telling the truth. He is telling the truth" that there was no collusion with Russia to help him win and that he did not obstruct justice.

The Trump lawyer said "at best there was ambiguity" whether Trump obstructed justice in his dismissal of Comey in May 2017, which then led Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, over Trump's objections, to name Mueller to lead the probe.

Within days of ousting Comey, Trump said that when he dismissed him he was thinking of "this Russia thing," because he thought it was a made-up excuse by Democrats looking for a reason for Trump's upset win over former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Last week, Trump said that was not the reason, but offered no other explanation.

Giuliani said Trump, who has pardoned notable conservative figures who have been convicted of crimes, has "no intention of pardoning himself," but added that "it would be an open question" whether he could do so, acknowledging there would be a political firestorm in the United States if he did.

Giuliani said he believes Mueller will conclude the investigation by September 1, "so we can get this long nightmare over for the American people."

Long-standing Justice Department rules have concluded that a sitting president cannot be indicted for criminal wrongdoing. But Mueller could lay out his findings in a report that could eventually be turned over to Congress, where lawmakers could, if they decided there was wrongdoing by Trump, pursue his impeachment.

Trump in recent days has contended that the Federal Bureau of Investigation planted a "spy" in his campaign, although there is no evidence that the investigative agency embedded anyone in the Trump operations ahead of the November 2016 vote. But an FBI informant, Stefan Halper, an American-born professor at Britain's University of Cambridge, reported to the FBI about conversations he had with three Trump campaign officials as part of its investigation into Russian interference in the election.

A leading Republican lawmaker, Congressman Trey Gowdy, said last week the FBI did nothing wrong, but Giuliani said he has "tremendous suspicion" that the operation was meant to spy on the Trump campaign.

Trump on Sunday offered three more Twitter comments on the election and Mueller investigation.

He quoted conservative Fox News analyst Jesse Watters as saying, The only thing Trump obstructed was Hillary getting to the White House. So true!"

Trump also complained about Mueller's indictment of Paul Manafort, for three months his campaign manager in mid-2016, who was charged with criminal offenses linked to his lobbying efforts for Ukraine that predated his involvement with the Trump operations.

"As one of two people left who could become President, why wouldnt the FBI or Department of Justice have told me that they were secretly investigating Paul Manafort (on charges that were 10 years old and had been previously dropped) during my campaign? Should have told me!" Trump said.

"Paul Manafort came into the campaign very late and was with us for a short period of time (he represented Ronald Reagan, Bob Dole & many others over the years), but we should have been told that Comey and the boys were doing a number on him, and he wouldnt have been hired!" Trump concluded.An accident, a stroke, or a disease can leave someone paralyzed and unable to walk. That happens to more than 15 million people around the world each year.

But new technological advances and physical therapy could help some of them walk again.

Among the most promising is the use of robotic exoskeletons, like one made by Ekso Bionics. It looks a bit like a backpack that straps on the users back and around the midsection. Robotic legs complete with foot panels extend from either side of the pack and wrap around the patients legs. A video game-style controller attaches to the pack with a long cord.

Im going to be a robot!

Lindsey Stoefen has been doing physical therapy with the exoskeleton for an hour a day, as she works to recover from the rare disorder that put her in a wheelchair in October.

The 17-year-old athlete climbed into a specially designed exoskeleton for the first time in late April, after becoming an in-patient at Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital in Chicago.

She recalls being nervous. I was like 'Dang, Im going to be a robot!' I was scared at first. I was like, Am I going to like it? Will I be okay? And once I got into it, I loved it.

Lauren Bularzik, Lindseys physical therapist, says the exo robots help to accelerate the rehabilitation process. For someone who takes a lot of energy to only walk a few feet, exo can get them up, can get them moving, it can supplement their movements, get that reciprocal pattern, encourage the correct motor planning.

Beside speeding up recovery times, these robotic skeletons are especially helpful for those with paralysis, from spinal cord injuries and strokes. Using the machine can help some patients rewire their brains to use secondary muscles, so they can eventually walk again - without the device.

The downside



Scientists at the University of Notre Dame are leading the way with their work on wearable robots that allow patients to regain some or all of their mobility. But Patrick Wensing, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, says exoskeletons have one big drawback.



While existing exoskeletons are very powerful, they dont understand what the user wants to do. So in order to transition between activities in daily life, you often have to press a button interface to tell the exoskeleton I would like to stand up now.



Wensing and his team are collaborating with Ekso Bionics, a leading developer of wearable robots, to create a machine that can understand what its user wants to do without implanted sensors and complicated control panels.



The new three-year project funded by The National Science Foundations robotic initiative, hopes to achieve a more fluid, intuitive system.



Taylor Gambon has spent the last year analyzing data from exoskeleton users and comparing them to models of everyday walking. What were seeing is that slow walking in general, whether in the exoskeleton or just the human, is much different from walking at a speed that you would choose naturally.



Later this year, the team will travel to Ekso Bionics' California headquarters, where they will work directly with exoskeletons to design programs that interact with users of various disabilities, so that more people like Lindsey Stoefen can get back on their feet again.An Iraqi court sentenced a French woman to life in prison on Sunday for membership in the Islamic State group.

Melina Boughedir, 28, was initially sentenced to six months in jail for entering the country illegally, but the court imposed a tougher sentence after prosecutors presented new evidence, including pictures of her French husband posing with IS fighters. The verdict can be appealed.



Boughedir, who was detained in the northern city of Mosul last year, appeared in court with her two-year-old daughter. She was represented by three lawyers.



Iraq detained thousands of people, including hundreds of foreigners, as it drove IS from Mosul and other areas. Some have been deported, while others have been sentenced in quick trials as the judiciary works through the large number of cases.



French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said last week that Boughedir was a "combatant" and a "Daesh terrorist,'' on French television channel LCI. "When you go to Mosul in 2016, [you go] to fight, so she is judged on the location of her actions... She fought against Iraqi units, she is judged in Iraq.''



The comments prompted anger from Boughedir's lawyers. They made public a letter Saturday in which they denounced a breach of the presumption of innocence.Gaza militants fired rockets at Israel on Saturday, drawing retaliatory Israeli airstrikes on Hamas sites, the Israeli military said, a few days after the area's most intense fighting in years.

At least four projectiles were fired from Gaza at Israel, the military said in a statement, adding that three were intercepted and one fell short.

Rocket alerts sounded in Israeli towns and villages near the border after dark, sending residents rushing to shelters. None of Gaza's militant groups claimed responsibility for the rocket fire.

Residents in Gaza said Israeli aircraft struck at least three sites belonging to Hamas, the Islamist group that controls the enclave.

The Israeli military confirmed in a statement it had carried out the airstrikes, adding that "the Hamas terror organization is solely responsible for all events that transpire in the Gaza Strip and emanate from it."

There were no immediate reports of casualties in any of the incidents.

Israel and Palestinian armed groups in Gaza reached a de facto cease-fire this week after the most intense flare-up of hostilities since a 2014 war, both sides signalling they did not want a wider escalation.

Militants from Hamas and Islamic Jihad fired dozens of rockets and mortar bombs at southern Israel throughout Tuesday and overnight into Wednesday, to which Israel responded with tank fire and airstrikes on more than 50 targets in the small, coastal enclave.

Violence along the Israel-Gaza frontier has surged in recent weeks. At least 120 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli troops during mass demonstrations along the Gaza border that began on March 30.

Israel, which has drawn international condemnation for its use of deadly force, says many of those killed were Hamas members and militants trying to launch attacks under cover of the protests.

The Palestinians say most of the dead and the thousands wounded were unarmed civilians against whom Israel was using excessive force.

More than 2 million Palestinians are packed into the narrow coastal enclave. Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza in 2005, but maintains tight control of its land and sea borders, citing security concerns.

Egypt also restricts movement in and out of Gaza on its border.Jordans prime minister refused to scrap an IMF-backed tax reform bill Saturday that has sparked the largest protests in more than five years against steep price hikes, saying it was up to parliament to decide its fate.

Several thousand demonstrators staged protests near the Cabinet office for the third consecutive night over the draft legislation, chanting anti-government slogans and urging King Abdullah to sack Prime Minister Hani Mulki.

Security forces blocked main roads leading to the Cabinet office to prevent demonstrators coming close, witnesses said.

Activists said hundreds of people also protested peacefully in other towns, such as Ramtha in north and Maan city in the south.

Sending the draft law does not mean parliament will agree to it or even agree on its articles. Parliament is its own master, Mulki told reporters after meeting trade union leaders and lawmakers.

Broader austerity

Unions say the tax bill, which is part of broader austerity measures recommended by the International Monetary Fund, will worsen a decline in living standards.

Earlier this year, a general sales tax was hiked and a subsidy on bread was scrapped as part of the three-year plan that aims to cut the Arab nations $37 billion debt  equivalent to 95 percent of gross domestic product.

The government says it needs the funds for public services and argues that tax reforms reduce social disparities by placing a heavier burden on high earners and leaving lower-paid state workers relatively unscathed.

Mulki said the IMF had completed its latest mission to the country Thursday and hoped the kingdom would conclude by mid-2019 most of the reforms needed to get the economy back on track.

King Abdullah, appeared to back Mulki, was quoted by state media as saying both parliament and government should engage in a national dialogue to reach a compromise over the bill.

The monarch blamed regional turmoil for the worsening the fiscal plight of the aid-dependent kingdom, which borders war-torn Syria to the north and Iraq on its eastern border.

Widening the gap

Critics say the measures will hurt the poor and accuse politicians of squandering public funds and corruption.

Parliament speaker Atef Tarawneh said more than 80 deputies, a majority of the 130-member assembly, wanted the government to withdraw the tax bill.

We wont submit to the dictates of the IMF, Tarawneh said after meeting Mulki, local media reported.

Unions representing state and private sector employees said the government had caved in to IMF demands and was widening the gap between rich and poor in the nation of 8 million people that hosts hundreds of thousands of refugees from Syrias conflict.

The Professional Unions Association, which had threatened new strikes before meeting with Mulki on Saturday, said it would meet to decide on the next steps.

We came with a request to withdraw the law and we heard something else, Ali al Abous, the head of the association said.

Jordans economy has struggled to grow under chronic deficits as private foreign capital and aid flows have slipped.U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis says international sanctions on North Korea will only be lifted when Pyongyang takes concrete steps to dismantle its nuclear program.

We will continue to implement all U.N. Security Council resolutions on North Korea, Mattis said as he wrapped up a visit to Singapore Sunday. North Korea will receive relief only when it demonstrates verifiable and irreversible steps to denuclearization.

Mattis, speaking alongside his South Korean and Japanese counterparts, attempted to dial back expectations for the ongoing talks between the United States and North Korea.

We can anticipate at best a bumpy road to the negotiations, Mattis said.

Laying groundwork

U.S. and North Korean officials continue to lay the groundwork ahead of the expected summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The meeting is set to take place June 12 in Singapore.

On Saturday, Mattis said U.S. troop levels in South Korea will not be on the table at the Trump-Kim summit. Those discussions, if they take place, will be separate and distinct from the talks with Pyongyang, Mattis said.

It is not clear what either side is prepared to offer during the negotiations. Its also not clear how long the talks will last.

Trump initially called for a quick denuclearization process, saying a phased approach has not worked in the past. But after meeting with a senior North Korean leader Friday, Trump seemed to walk back that approach.

Take your time, Trump told Kim Yong Chol, a top aide to Kim. We can go fast, we can go slowly. Trump also insisted that he never said it happens in one meeting.

Cautious optimism

South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo on Saturday said he was cautiously optimistic.

Given North Koreas past, we must be cautious in approaching this. However, some of North Koreas measures it has taken give us reason to be positive, he said.

The United States and its allies have repeatedly said they are looking for the complete, verifiable, irreversible dismantlement of North Koreas nuclear weapons program.North Korea's state-run news agency reported Sunday that Syria's President Bashar Assad is interested in visiting North Korea and meeting leader Kim Jong Un.



The KCNA report said Assad made the comments May 30 while receiving the credentials for the North Korean ambassador.



"I am going to visit the DPRK and meet HE Kim Jong Un," Assad was quoted saying, using the acronym for the North's official name.



There was no indication that such a trip had been planned.



The report also quoted Assad saying he was sure Kim that would "achieve the final victory and realize the reunification of Korea without fail."



Syria's government did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday.



The report comes as international attention is focused on a summit between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump scheduled for June 12 in Singapore.Pakistan says at least six militants were killed and five soldiers wounded in shootouts along the troubled border with Afghanistan.



A military statement noted that in the past 24 hours "terrorists" from the Afghan side have staged repeated "fire raids and physical attacks" on Pakistani outposts and border fencing teams.



It said security forces responded "effectively and repulsed" the attacks in the northwestern Bajaur and southwestern Qamar Din Qarez areas.The Bajaur area suffered seven cross-border militant attacks since Saturday.



Pakistan shares nearly 2,600-kilometer frontier with Afghanistan. It is in the process offensing the largely porous frontier and constructing new forts to deter terrorist infiltration in either direction, according to military officials.



"Taking advantage of ungoverned spaces and facilitation inside Afghanistan, terrorists are resorting to such attacks to prevent fencing and construction of border posts," said Sunday's statement.



It went on to reiterate Pakistan's resolve to continue with its crucial border security project"irrespective of the challenges posed by inimical forces"to consolidate Islamabad's counterterrorism gains on its side.



Afghanistan historically disputes the 1893 boundary line drawn during the British colonial rule and opposes the fencing effort by Pakistan, insisting it will add to problems facing divided families.



Islamabad rejects Afghan assertions and maintains it inherited the international border after Pakistan was carved out of British India in 1947.



Pakistani officials have long urged Afghan and U.S.-led international forces to enhance surveillance and number of border posts on their side to deter militant infiltrations, while Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of harboring Taliban insurgents fighting Afghan and NATO forces in the country.The government Papua New Guinea is considering blocking Facebook while it investigates how to best to regulate the social networking site. Critics say the move would be authoritarian.

Authorities in Papua New Guinea, or PNG, say Facebook has become a magnet for illegal and unsavory activity. The government is considering a temporary ban on the site while it works out the best way to regulate the social media platform.



Only about 10 percent of the nearly 7 million people in PNG use Facebook, but some officials have become increasingly agitated by content being posted online.They have asked experts to help in their search for the best way to impose controls on the social media site.



PNG Communications Minister, Sam Basil, says illegal use of Facebook must be curbed.



"Defamatory publications or the fake news, identity theft and, of course, unidentified Facebook users. Most of those users are the ones that are really breaching all the laws in terms of posting pornography materials and, of course, posting fake news," he said.

But critics believe the government's attempts to muzzle Facebook are an attack on free speech. They believe that ministers are motivated by a desire to silence those who expose official corruption and wrongdoing online.



Lawrence Stephens, the chairman of Transparency International PNG, says a temporary ban of Facebook would be a draconian move.



"To talk about stopping this for a month whilst someone, somewhere does an analysis of what we should be able to see sounds pretty authoritarian and pretty worrying," said Stephens.



The move to temporarily ban Facebook comes as PNG prepares to host the 2018 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, or APEC, leaders' summit later this year.



PNG is a South Pacific nation and is Australia's closest neighbor.German police shot at a "rampaging" man wielding a knife in a cathedral in Berlin on Sunday, according to city officers.

"Shortly after 4 pm (1400 GMT) police shot at a rampaging man at Berlin Cathedral," police said in a tweet.

"He was wounded in the leg," police said, later adding that an officer had been wounded, without providing further details.

Officers rushed to the Berliner Dom, a major tourist attraction on the historic Museum Island in the German capital, after an employee called emergency services to report the incident.

Police have said the suspect is a 53-year-old man, and that there is no reason to believe the attack was related to terrorism.Pope Francis prayed for peace in Nicaragua Sunday, calling for dialogue in the Latin American country where over 100 people have been killed amid anti-government protests in recent weeks.



"I am united with my brother bishops in Nicaragua and their grief over violence committed by armed groups," the Argentine pope said to tens of thousands of people attending a traditional prayer in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican.



Protests against President Daniel Ortega began in April over proposed changes to pensions, but have since ballooned into larger calls for his resignation.

"The Church is always in favor of dialogue, but for that it requires an active commitment to respect for freedom and, above all, life," the pope said. "I pray that all the violence will cease so that the conditions for dialogue can be restored as quickly as possible."



Fifteen people were killed and 200 more injured on Wednesday, the country's mother's day - the bloodiest day in Nicaragua since violent protests began over a month ago. Gunmen shot into crowds of thousands in the city of Masaya during a march led by the mothers of victims of recent protests.President Donald Trumps lawyers composed a secret 20-page letter to special counsel Robert Mueller to assert that Trump cannot be forced to testify while arguing that he could not have committed obstruction because he has absolute authority over all federal investigations.

The existence of the letter, which was first reported and posted by The New York Times on Saturday, was a bold assertion of presidential power and another front on which Trumps lawyers have argued that the president cant be subpoenaed in the special counsels ongoing investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

The letter is dated January 29 and addressed to Mueller from John Dowd, one of Trumps lawyers at the time who has since resigned from the legal team. In the letter, the Trumps lawyers argue that a charge of illegal obstruction is moot because the Constitution empowers the president to, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon.

Trump weighed in on Saturday on Twitter:

Mueller interview

Mueller has requested an interview with the president to determine whether he had criminal intent to obstruct the investigation into his associates possible links to Russias election interference. Trump had previously signaled that he would be willing to sit for an interview, but his legal team, including head lawyer Rudy Giuliani, have privately and publicly expressed concern that the president could risk charges of perjury.

If Trump does not consent to an interview, Mueller will have to decide whether to forge forward with a historic grand jury subpoena. His team raised the possibility in March of subpoenaing the president, but it is not clear if it is still under active consideration. Giuliani has told The Associated Press that the presidents legal team believes the special counsel does not have the authority to do so.

A court battle is likely if Trumps team argues that the president cant be forced to answer questions or be charged with obstruction of justice. President Bill Clinton was charged with obstruction in 1998 by the House of Representatives as part of his impeachment trial. And one of the articles of impeachment prepared against Richard Nixon in 1974 was for obstruction.

Topics of Muellers obstruction investigation include the firings of Comey and former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, as well Trumps reaction to Attorney General Jeff Sessions recusal from the Russia investigation.

Public relations campaign

In addition to the legal battles, Trumps team and allies have waged a public relations campaign against Mueller to discredit the investigation and soften the impact of the special counsels potential findings. Giuliani said last week that the special counsel probe may be an entirely illegitimate investigation and need to be curtailed because, in his estimation, it was based on inappropriately obtained information from an informant and former FBI director James Comeys memos.

In reality, the FBI began a counterintelligence investigation in July 2016 to determine if Trump campaign associates were coordinating with Russia to tip the election. The investigation was opened after the hacking of Democratic emails that intelligence officials later formally attributed to Russia.

Giuliani has said a decision will not be made about a possible presidential interview with the special counsel until after Trumps summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore.Saudi Arabia temporarily released eight people accused of communicating with organizations opposed to the kingdom and held nine others in detention, state news agency SPA reported Saturday.

The public prosecutor said it had interrogated people arrested last month, whom human rights groups and activists identified as women's rights activists.

In a statement, the public prosecutor said the detainees had admitted communicating and cooperating with individuals and organizations opposed to the kingdom, recruiting people to get secret information to hurt the country's interests, and offering material and emotional support to hostile elements abroad.

The statement did not identify the detainees, and Reuters was unable to immediately verify their identity.

17 arrested in all

A total of 17 people have been arrested, including five women and three men, the statement said. Nine people, five men and four women, remain in detention "after sufficient evidence was made available and for their confessions of charges attributed to them."

International rights watchdogs have reported the detention of at least 11 activists in the past few weeks, mostly women who previously campaigned for the right to drive and an end to the kingdom's male guardianship system, which requires women to obtain the consent of a male relative for major decisions.

The United Nations called on Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to provide information about the arrested activists and ensure their legal rights were guaranteed.

A ban on women driving in the kingdom, set to be lifted on June 24, has been hailed as proof of a progressive trend. But the recent arrests have soured that image.

The government announced two weeks ago that seven people had been arrested for suspicious contacts with foreign entities and offering financial support to "enemies overseas," and said other suspects were being sought. It did not name the detainees.

Last week, Saudi Arabia released four women's rights activists, fellow activists and Amnesty International said. The terms of the release were unclear.

Message to activists?

Activists and diplomats have speculated that the new wave of arrests may be aimed at appeasing conservative elements opposed to social reforms pushed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. It may also be a message to activists not to push demands out of sync with the government's own agenda, they said.

State-backed media had labeled those held as "agents of embassies," unnerving diplomats in Saudi Arabia, a key ally of the United States.

The crown prince has courted Western allies in a bid to open up the deeply conservative Muslim kingdom and diversify its oil-dependent economy, the region's largest.Saudi Arabia's prosecutor says 17 people have been detained on suspicion of trying to undermine security and stability, a case activists say has targeted prominent women's rights campaigners just weeks before the country lifts its ban on women driving.



The statement from the Public Prosecutor's office on Sunday did not name those detained, and said eight have been temporarily released. It says five men and four women are still being held with sufficient evidence against them, as well as their confession to the charges.



The statement says the accused admitted to communicating with people and organizations hostile to the kingdom, recruiting people in a sensitive government entity to obtain confidential information, and providing financial support to hostile elements abroad.



Rights groups have condemned the arrests.An anti-immigration opposition party led by former prime minister Janez Jansa won the most seats in Slovenia's parliamentary election Sunday, but may struggle to put together a coalition government.

With nearly every vote counted, the Slovenian Democratic Party will finish with about 25 seats in the 90-seat parliament.

The so-called "anti-establishment" party led by former comedian turned politician Marjan Sarec, will finish in second place with about 12 seats.



Both Jansa and Sarec have said they will refuse to work with each other to form a government. Jansa will have to turn to other less popular conservative parties and perhaps leftists in the hope to get enough seats to cobble together a majority.

Jansa did not appear to regard his first-place finish Sunday as a triumph.

"We'll do everything to build a firm and stable government in the interest of Slovenia. If we fail, we'll applaud anyone trying to achieve that. Regardless of whether in government or in opposition, the Slovenian Democratic Party will work for the good of Slovenia and the Slovenian people."

While congratulating Jansa and his party, Sarec repeated his refusal to join in a coalition with the right-wingers and said he will also make an effort to form a government.

Sarec strongly criticized some of Jansa's harsh anti-immigrant rhetoric during the campaign as well as his association with Hungary's far-right Prime Minister Victor Orban.

Jansa called illegal migration one of Europe's most serious problems, saying many come to Europe not to escape war and poverty only to take advantage of the generous European welfare system.

Jansa was prime minister from 2004 to 2008 and again from 2012 to 2013. He was forced to step down because of a corruption conviction that was later overturned.

Slovenia is a former Yugoslav republic that managed to avoid much of the ethnic and political upheaval other republics suffered when Yugoslavia broke apart.

The new prime minister would replace Miro Cerar.

Cerar resigned in March when the Supreme Court threw out a referendum authorizing construction of a major railroad project he insisted was needed to keep the economy growing.The International Organization for Migration says it has repatriated 150 Somali migrants stranded in Libya this past week. Most had been held in government-run detention centers for months under abysmal conditions.



The returning Somali migrants account for only a fraction of the hundreds of thousands of migrants and refugees living in precarious conditions in Libya.



The International Organization for Migration believes as many as one million people, most from Arab and African countries, have made the dangerous journey to Libya as the gateway to Europe and a better life.



But, the reality upon arrival is quite different. IOM says migrants in Libya are exposed to many risks, including smuggling, trafficking, kidnapping, abuse, detention and torture. IOM spokesman Joel Millman says the organization's voluntary repatriation program has thousands of migrants of different nationalities from this dire fate.



"We believe that these flights and other activities that IOM is doing in Libya is assisting in getting people home and that is reducing the risk and the actual fatalities of some of the world's most vulnerable migrants from this route across the Mediterranean," he said.



Data show nearly 30,000 Somali migrants and refugees have left Libya by sea for Italy since 2014.



Millman says this latest voluntary humanitarian return of migrants from Libya to Somalia was the fourth and the largest. He says it also was the first chartered, non-stop flight from the Libyan capital Tripoli to Somalia's capital, Mogadishu.



He says IOM plans to return around 300 other vulnerable Somali migrants in Libya back to Mogadishu in the coming weeks. Upon return, he says the migrants are given psychological counseling and some assistance to help them reintegrate into their home communities.Australia's intelligence laws are to be reviewed in the most comprehensive overhaul of national security legislation in decades.



The review will take 18 months and will be led by a former spy chief. It will be the most comprehensive review of Australia's intelligence laws since the 1970s. Much of its terms of reference are being kept secret but officials say the shake-up will look at how information is shared among the nation's six security and intelligence agencies, as well with other law enforcement bodies.



Analysts say the review is long overdue with existing laws designed for a previous era. They say the review would likely address the main threats facing Australia; terrorism, cyber-warfare and influence by foreign powers.



Australia's federal Attorney-General Christian Porter says the overhaul will help to integrate the various agencies that keep the nation safe.



"The control, direction and coordination of all of these agencies, and the way they interact with non-intelligence agencies and state-based agencies, such as state police forces. It is looking at how we share information and whether or not that can be improved on.It is looking at the overall staffing and resourcing, so it has a very holistic approach, and the other thing it will look at is accountability and oversight," said Porter.



The review comes amid rising fears in Australia over the influence of China in its domestic affairs.



Earlier this week media reports detailed allegations apparently contained in a top-secret report that China has attempted to influence Australia's political parties for the past decade, as well as every level of government.



Beijing has previously accused Australia of being anti-China.



Last year the Australian government introduced new foreign interference laws into federal parliament, which, if passed, would put a ban on all overseas political donations. In January, Australian opposition Senator Sam Dastyari was forced to resign over alleged links to Chinese authorities.



Australia's National Terrorism Threat Level remains set at "probable," which means security agencies believe that individuals or groups have the intent and capability to carry out a terrorist attack in Australia.Several thousand supporters of Macedonia's opposition VMRO-DPMNE party protested on Saturday against changing the name of the country and to demand an early election because of the poor state of the economy, which

contracted last year.

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev has promised to boost the economy and accelerate the country's accession to NATO and the European Union, moves that have so far been blocked by its neighbor and EU member Greece in a row over Macedonia's name.

People waving Macedonian and party flags gathered in front of the government building in the capital, Skopje, with some of them holding banners that read: "Macedonia will win."

Macedonia and Greece have been holding talks to resolve the long-running row over the use by the former Yugoslav republic of the name Macedonia, which Greece says implies a territorial claim because its northern province has the same name.

"I am disappointed that they are negotiating to change of our name," said Kiril Stojanovksi, a 41-year-old accountant. "Our name should not be changed. They must know that we are not going to get into NATO and the EU in the next 10 to 15 years. Why are they doing this?"

Goal is stability

Western countries see integration of the Western Balkan countries into the EU and NATO as a way to bring stability to the region that is still recovering from the wars and economic turmoil of the 1990s.

VMRO-DPMNE leader Hristijan Mickoski has called for an early election to be held next year. He told the crowd that the prime minister "will do irreparable damage from which there is no coming back."

The opposition party is against any change of the constitution "with an aim

to change our name."

VMRO-DPMNE led the country for nearly 10 years until the 2016 elections, which ended a two-year crisis.Finance leaders of the closest U.S. allies vented anger over the Trump administrations metal import tariffs but ended a three-day meeting in Canada on Saturday with no solutions, setting the stage for a heated fight at a G7 summit next week in Quebec.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin failed to soothe the frustrations of his Group of Seven counterparts over the 25 percent steel and 10 percent aluminum tariffs that Washington imposed on Mexico, Canada and the European Union this week.

The other six G7 member countries asked Mnuchin to bring to President Donald Trump a message of regret and disappointment over the tariffs, Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau said at a press conference after the end of a three-day meeting in the Canadian mountain resort town of Whistler, British Columbia.

Were concerned that these actions are actually not conducive to helping our economy, they actually are destructive, and that is consistently held across the six countries that expressed their point of view to Secretary Mnuchin, he added.

In a statement issued by Canada, the G7 finance officials agreed that decisive action is needed on the tariff issue at a summit of G7 leaders next week in Charlevoix, Quebec.

'G6 plus one'

Speaking separately after the meeting, frequently referred to as the G6 plus one, Mnuchin told reporters he was not part of the summary statement and said Trump was focused on rebalancing our trade relationships.

Mnuchin rejected comments from some G7 officials that the United States was circumventing international trade rules with the tariffs or ceding global economic leadership.

I dont think in any way the U.S. is abandoning its leadership in the global economy, quite the contrary. I think that weve had a massive effort on tax reform in the United States which has had a incredible impact on the U.S. economy, Mnuchin said.

The U.S. Treasury chief said he has relayed some of the G7 comments to Trump and added that the U.S. president would address trade issues with other G7 leaders, but declined to speculate on any outcomes.

Washingtons move

Trump on Saturday took to Twitter to complain about the higher tariffs charged by some U.S. trading partners under World Trade Organization agreements.

All six of the other G7 countries are paying the tariffs, which are largely aimed at curbing excess production in China.

Exemptions expired for Canada, Mexico and EU countries on Friday, while Japanese metals producers have been paying the levies since March 23.

Canada and Mexico, which are embroiled in talks with the United States to update the North American Free Trade Agreement, responded to the U.S. move by announcing levies of their own on a variety of American exports.

The EU is set to retaliate with tariffs on a range of U.S. goods from Harley-Davidson motorcycles to blue jeans and bourbon whiskey.

Days before trade war

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said the United States has only a few days to avoid sparking a trade war with its allies and it is up to Washington to make a move to de-escalate tensions over tariffs.

Speaking after the meeting, Le Maire said the EU was poised to take counter-measures against the new U.S. tariffs.

Some officials at the meeting said the tariffs made it harder for the group to work together to confront China over its trade practices. Mnuchin disagreed, saying there was support for dealing with Chinas joint venture requirements, technology transfer efforts and other policies.

German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said G7 countries also told Mnuchin about their opposition to new U.S. sanctions on Iran, which will affect European companies. Trump announced last month that he was pulling the United States out of an international nuclear agreement with Tehran.

There were several issues discussed at the G7 over which there was no agreement, Scholz told reporters. Thats really quite unusual in the history of the G7.

The meeting of top economic policymakers was seen as a prelude to the trade disputes that will dominate the two-day G7 summit that begins on Friday in Quebec.The UN has called for calm in Mali after dozens of people were hurt during banned opposition protests in Bamako, sparking calls for the prime minister to resign two months ahead of a presidential election.

The opposition said some 30 people were hospitalized  including prominent opposition figure Etienne Fabaka Sissoko who was left "in a coma"  after security forces fired "live ammunition" at protesters on Saturday.

The government rejected the claims outright.

"It is absolutely false to say that shots were fired using live ammunition," a source close to the security ministry told AFP.

Earlier Sunday, the ministry said the security forces were bound by three words  "professionalism, courtesy and firmness" and that the police had acted to maintain public order.

It denounced the protestors for having injured a policeman in the head.

A "transparency" rally outside the party headquarters of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita attracted several hundred people.

Police fired tear gas and beat demonstrators with batons, according to an AFP reporter at the scene. Clashes also took place in other locations.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who visited Mali last week, called late Saturday for "calm and restraint by all parties".

"[He] calls on the Malian government to ensure the protection of fundamental human rights and freedom of expression to peaceful demonstrations, including in the context of the ongoing state of emergency," a UN statement said.

Mali is one of the so-called "G5 Sahel" states  along with Burkina Faso, Chad, Mauritania and Niger  which have launched joint operations against jihadist groups.

Most protests are banned as the nation has lived under a near-constant state of emergency since an attack on a hotel in Bamako in November 2015 left 20 people dead.

Terrorize the opposition

"In a dozen places, unarmed protesters were attacked with tear gas and clubs," the office of opposition presidential candidate Soumaila Cisse said in a statement.

"The headquarters of the ADP [Alliance for Democracy and Progress] was attacked by police special forces, who threw grenades. The prime minister's security services fired live ammunition at protesters gathered" in front of the building, the statement charged.

"Three opposition leaders were violently beaten on the head with clubs and batons," it added.

"The intention of the government was clear: to terrorize the opposition and all democratic forces."

The statement also called for "the resignation of the prime minister".

The demonstrations come ahead of July 29 elections in which Mali President Keita, 73, will face more than a dozen challengers.

The opposition has called for equal access to public radio and television for campaigning.

"The UN secretary-general regrets the government-imposed ban on the demonstrations by opposition parties," the UN said.

"[He] urges political actors and the civil society to favor dialogue in order to maintain an environment conducive to the holding of credible and transparent elections."

Opposition leaders have called for new demonstrations next Friday.A U.S. citizen was found shot to death in the capital Saturday as violence and social unrest continue to grip Nicaragua.

The body of Sixto Henry Vera was lying in a street beside two burned vehicles with a bullet wound to the head, the state forensic medicine institute said. Employees at the Managua bar owned by Vera, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said he left late Friday to help a friend who was being attacked.

U.S. Ambassador Laura Dogu offered condolences via Twitter on Saturday to the family of a U.S. citizen who died, saying the death of a U.S. citizen is of great concern for the embassy.

Veras death occurred at a tense time for Nicaragua. More than 110 people have been killed in the country since mid-April amid clashes between forces loyal to President Daniel Ortega and opposition groups demanding his removal.

Dangerous streets

Streets across the country are often deserted after dark as armed groups circulate in vehicles without license plates, shooting and robbing.

On Wednesday, more than a dozen people died in shootings that erupted around protests on Mothers Day in Nicaragua. Gunmen firing into crowds sent thousands of demonstrators running for cover at the marches, which were led by mothers of victims who died in recent protests.

Civil society groups alleged the attackers were members of paramilitary groups loyal to Ortega. Government officials blamed the opposition groups who are seeking to oust Ortega.

The rise of criminal gangs has led residents in several cities to organize neighborhood watch groups with barricades. The Red Cross reported that two people manning barricades in the city of Masaya were fatally shot Saturday.

I beg the people of my city, Masaya, to not go out onto the street and to protect themselves in their homes, the situation is very dangerous, Managuas auxiliary Roman Catholic bishop, Silvio Baez, said via Twitter.

Calls for elections

Leading businessmen in Nicaragua have proposed moving up the presidential election that is now scheduled for 2021. Ortega has been president since 2007.A major U.S.-led military exercise with 18,000 soldiers from 19 primarily NATO countries has kicked off in the alliance's eastern flank involving Poland and the three Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania.

The U.S. Army Europe said Sunday the Saber Strike 18 drill is spread around the region until June 15 as "a demonstration of the commitment and solidarity of the Alliance" at the time when Russia's military maneuvers are increasingly worrying nearby NATO members.



It stressed, however, that Saber Strike "is not a provocation of Russia.''



NATO has deployed some 6,000 troops in the Baltics and Poland.



Lithuania's Defense Ministry also announced the start of the country's largest-ever national drill, "Thunder Storm," with some 9,000 troops.



Non-NATO member Israel will be taking part in Saber Strike for the first time.Click here to search our database for earlier earthquakes in the same area since 1900!

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We truly love working to bring you the latest volcano and earthquake data from around the world.We need financing to increase hard- and software capacity as well as support our editor team.If you find the information useful and would like to support our team in integrating further features, write great content, and in upgrading our soft- and hardware, please PayPal or Online credit card payment )., these features have been added recently:The Navy and White House have been decidedly more modest about the militarys shipbuilding plans since Donald Trump said on the campaign trail that he wanted to build a 350-ship Navy. Estimates put together by the Congressional Research Service and the Congressional Budget Office found that the Navys long-term shipbuilding plan to build a 355-ship Navy would not be attained until at least 2050 under current budgets. (The Navy has fewer than 300 ships today.)Under WTO rules, the national security tariff is supposed to be wielded only in times of war or when there is a direct threat to a country. Trumps team is arguing that any nation should be able to determine on its own when its national security is at risk and impose tariffs when it wants, a major shift that opens the door to any country erecting trade barriers whenever it wants.The middle section looks at the 25-year run of the Oprah Winfrey Show, the highest-rated talk show in history. Using artifacts from Winfreys Harpo Studios in Chicago, where the show was filmed, this section focuses on its evolution, its variety of subject matter and guests, and its reach into social issues such as racism and equality.Slowly but inexorably, Robert Kennedys life receded. As his condition changed from critical to extremely critical to extremely critical as to life, there was little to do but wait. Ethel Kennedy stayed by his bedside. Meanwhile, Jacqueline Kennedy and Coretta King, along with Pierre Salingers wife, Nicole, remained in a room nearby. She watched the two widows converse and, recognizing their unique bond, left them alone. What struck her most that night was how dark and silent the room was: For all the two widows shared, what was there, really, for them to say? At one point, all three were summoned for a last look at Robert Kennedy. I dont think he was totally dead yet, but not far, she recalled.NEW YORK  After more than 45 years in fashion, Diane von Furstenberg has been looking for a graceful exit. She is 71, and she has designed a lot of frocks. But the one that matters most is the classic wrap dress, a few yards of slinky jersey that manage to flatter not all but most figures. Its not cheap, but it isnt terribly expensive. It has a knack for being appropriate in a multitude of situations. And it comes with its own empowering narrative: that women can have dominion over their own reality with a single sexy, authoritative dress.This is a city where more incumbents have lost than virtually any other big city in the country, said Tom Lindenfeld, a political strategist and former adviser to Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D), as well as former mayors Adrian Fenty and Anthony Williams. It is possible for non-incumbents to win. I just dont see a whole lot of potential this year given the nature of the races.Most interesting: The researchers confessed that the weakness of their work sometimes made it difficult to convince people that it reflected the truth. They used the word causality a lot. People want to know what causes U.S. students to learn less than children in Japan, Singapore and Finland. As I typed that last sentence, I reminded myself that we really dont know how valid those comparisons are.I wanted to make the painting look pretty, but you can tell by the expression of the models in the painting that they are in fear, said Solis, a 16-year-old junior from Miami who is gay. Theyre in fear of society telling them what they cant wear or how they have to act. I want people to know that they have to be true to themselves, be who they are. Especially now.She was born Julia Cooper in Charlottesville. She was a connoisseur of antiques and concluded several years ago that it was time for a reappraisal of the painting Norman Rockwell Visits a Country Editor, which hung outside the Press Club bar for 50 years, said William McCarren, executive director of the club. She advised that it be put up for sale. In 2015, it was sold to an anonymous buyer at a Christies auction for almost $11 million.Todays Headlines

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By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy PolicyCox is a 62-year-old white conservative in a state where the electorate is increasingly young, brown and liberal. He runs for office a lot, and has yet to win. He dropped out of the 2004 race for U.S. Senate in his home state of Illinois, where he debated the eventual winner, Barack Obama. He ran for president in 2008 and lost again. This time out, he has become that rare Republican who did not vote for Trump in 2016 but wrangled his endorsement anyway.Israel strikes Hamas in Gaza after rocket fire resumes: The Israeli military struck Hamas militant sites in Gaza early Sunday in response to the resumption of rocket fire toward Israel, which threatened to unravel an informal cease-fire that had held since a flare-up of violence last week. Israel has also been battling fires caused by kites rigged with incendiary devices, or attached to burning rags, launched from Gaza that have damaged forests and burned southern agricultural fields. The military said it hit 15 Hamas targets, including military compounds, munition factories and naval forces.That is a fanciful hypothetical, but the more reality-based one also underscores the extreme nature of the Trump lawyers claim. It is obvious enough that it would be wrong for the president to order spurious investigations of his political opponents in order to harass them, Hemel and Posner write. But it would seem to follow that the president should not call off investigations of his political aides and allies (and of himself) in order to protect them (and himself) from legal jeopardy. If he could, then he or his aides could engage in criminal activity in order to harass their political opponents  as the Watergate burglary, a spy operation against the Democratic National Committee, illustrates  without fear of legal liability.Ohio Gov. John Kasich (R), who hasnt ruled out mounting a primary challenge against Trump in 2020, criticized the inaction to date of congressional Republican leaders nominally committed to free trade. I have been frankly shocked at the fact that our leaders think they have to ask permission from the president to do anything, he said, in an appearance on the same program. I think they ought to make it very clear that theyre not going to just sit back and tolerate this.Long gone is the GOPs post-2012 autopsy, titled the Growth and Opportunity Project, which, following the loss to President Barack Obama, called for the party to adopt a more liberal position on immigration and work harder to court Hispanics and other minorities. Those ideas were part of the arguments in 2016 from some of Trumps rivals, such as Jeb Bush and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), but Trumps triumph and continued popularity with GOP voters have made clear that strong opposition to illegal immigration is key to winning the party base.But nothing in the race so far has borne out his optimism. Indeed, the campaign has proved anew the difficulty of dislodging a well-regarded incumbent in a far-flung state where it takes years and millions of dollars to become known to voters. The very thing that de Leon implicitly criticizes  a Senate tenure that has stretched from late 1992  has helped to cement Feinsteins substantial advantage. A beneficiary of the first Year of the Woman in 1992, Feinstein is poised to gain from a second wave of womens activism this year.The letter aimed to rebut each piece of the case. The lawyers asserted that Comeys firing was justified because it was recommended by the attorney general and deputy attorney general. They wrote that Trump disputes having told Comey to let go of the Flynn investigation, and that even if he had, the president could not have intended to obstruct justice because the White House had indications the Flynn investigation was not ongoing at the time.Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan will travel to Beijing this week for meetings with representatives from government and business. Last month, the premier defended spending more than $250,000 leading a delegation to China and Japan in November, saying it was a worthwhile 10-day trip to promote the state and secure jobs. Premier Mark McGowan said the trip was important to building business relationships with the region. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Sixteen people, including ministers and bureaucrats, spent almost $120,000 on airfares, accommodation and "associated costs", and more than $118,000 on expenses in China alone. Less than a year later, Mr McGowan said he planned to visit Beijing for the first time as premier from this coming Wednesday to Saturday.

"China is Australia's biggest trading partner and I want to ensure that WA is in the box seat to maximise opportunities that will create more jobs in the resources sector, as well as industries like tourism and education," he said in a statement on Sunday. "The benefits from the visit last year are already starting to flow, with a new strategy launched to promote Perth as a study destination and positive discussions about direct flights from Shanghai." In a press conference later on Sunday, Mr McGowan took a swing at Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and his reported promise to announce an 80-cent GST floor for Western Australia. The premier said he would believe it when he sees it. Mr Turnbull will reportedly take his solution to the GST revenue distribution formula to cabinet shortly, and is expected to announce it at the Liberal state conference in Perth on August 11.WESTPORT  In the midst of a divisive presidential campaign where insults and derogatory remarks were the norm, some Westport teenagers took to social media to air similar thoughts.

A private Staples High School Facebook group of about 200 students, circulating offensive and defamatory memes pertaining to gender, race and religion, was called to the attention of the administration on Nov. 7.

Superintendent of Schools Colleen Palmer said a group of concerned students alerted the administration about the group because it violated the core beliefs of our district.

The Facebook group was immediately taken down and appropriate consequences were given to those involved, she said. Any of the students directly involved and active in the group were assigned community service.

Some of the students felt it was political satire, but it went beyond that, Palmer said. There were some statements in there that targeted gender, certain religious groups, targeted certain ethnic backgrounds. There were various statements where a lot of the content was extracted (from) other sites and posted on the Facebook group.

Palmer refused to say whether any students were suspended and did not answer what grade levels the group included or was limited to, simply repeating, appropriate consequences were given to those involved.

The administration did reach out to the families of any student who was involved to make sure they understood the effect of posting such material online.

In an email to the Staples community, Principal James DAmico explained how he told the student body it is crucial for everyone in the community to feel more empowered to be upstanders in the face of hurtful speech toward others.

DAmico maintained there was no bullying aimed at specific individuals, adding the school will move to engage students by discussing the school districts guiding principles: being socially and emotionally aware, sincere kindness, principled thought and action and a constant state of learning.

Keeping school environments positive has been especially difficult recently in the wake of the election between President-elect Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

According to a report from The Detroit News, students at Royal Oak Middle School in Michigan started chanting Build that wall, a day after Trump was elected  a reference to Trumps pledge to build a wall between the United States and Mexico to stop the flow of illegal immigration.

The Washington Post and other news organizations reported and posted video about an incident in which two students carried a Trump campaign sign through the hallways at York County (Pa.) School as another student, according to police, shouted, white power.

On the campaign trail, Trump stirred up support from white nationalists, prompting others to fear his tenure. He also called for a ban on Muslims entering the country.

The Staples student newspaper, Inklings, ran a story detailing reactions from students ranging from shock and despair to euphoria at Trumps election.

As a woman, I am having trouble coming to terms with the fact that I need to survive four years of Trumps presidency, Zoe Hulina, a junior, told Inklings. He has openly admitted and bragged about sexually assaulting women, called women he doesnt like fat, ugly pigs, and believes that women who have abortions should be punished.

In his email, DAmico said the election had taken a toll, and the principal said counselors would continue to be on hand for students who want to talk about it.

Bill Mecca, an intervention specialist at Trumbull High School, said if he were to encounter a student with such a concern, he would work with the student to make them feel more empowered.

If that were to happen, counselors have to allow a person to express their feelings and to help them verbalize the impact its having on them, said Mecca, a certified school social worker with 17 years of experience in public schools. We would be skilled enough to help them label their feeling and then help lead them to what they would do, in terms of making efforts to move from feeling a certain way to feeling more empowered, so that they would feel secure and comfortable in their present environment.

He added that student leadership groups, of which Staples has many, play a helpful role in fostering a safe climate for students in the sense that they can work to define what their high schools climate is.

@chrismmarquette; cmarquette@bcnnew.comRaymond James Financial, Inc., a financial holding company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the underwriting, distribution, trading, and brokerage of equity and debt securities, and the sale of mutual funds and other investment products in the United States, Canada, Europe, and internationally. The company operates through Private Client Group, Capital Markets, Asset Management, RJ Bank, and Other segments. The Private Client Group segment provides securities brokerage services, including the sale of equities, mutual funds, fixed income products, and insurance products to their individual clients; and borrowing and lending of securities to and from other broker-dealers, financial institutions, and other counterparties. The Capital Markets segment offers securities brokerage, trading, and research services to institutions with a focus on sale of the United States and Canadian equities and fixed income products; and manages and participates in underwritings, merger and acquisition services, and public finance activities. The Asset Management segment engages in the operations of Eagle, the Eagle Family of Funds, Cougar, the asset management operations of Raymond James & Associates, trust services of Raymond James Trust, and other fee-based asset management programs. The RJ Bank segment provides corporate loans, SBL, tax-exempt loans, and residential loans. The Other segment engages in private equity activities, including various direct and third party private equity investments; and private equity funds. Raymond James Financial, Inc. was founded in 1962 and is based in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Read MoreBanco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA engages in the traditional banking businesses of retail banking, asset management, private banking, and wholesale banking. It operates through the following segments: Spain, the United States, Mexico, Turkey, South America, and Rest of Eurasia. The Spain segment includes mainly the banking and insurance business that the group carries out in Spain. The United States segment consists of the financial business activity of BBVA USA in the country and the activity of the branch of BBVA SA in New York. The Mexico segment refers to banking and insurance businesses in this country as well as the activity of its branch in Houston. The Turkey segment reports the activity of Garanti BBVA group that is mainly carried out in this country and, to a lesser extent, in Romania and the Netherlands. The South America segment comprises of operations in n Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. The Rest of Eurasia segment includes the banking business activity carried out by the group in Europe and Asia, excluding Spain. The company was founded in 1857 and is headquartered in Madrid, Spain.

Read MoreConocoPhillips engages in the exploration, production, transportation and marketing of crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, natural gas liquids, and liquefied natural gas on a worldwide basis. It operates through the following geographical segments: Alaska; Lower 48; Canada; Europe, Middle East and North Africa; Asia Pacific; and Other International. The Alaska segment primarily explores for produces, transports and markets crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. The Lower 48 segment consists of operations in the U.S. and the Gulf of Mexico. The Canada segment is comprised of oil sands development in the Athabasca Region of northeastern Alberta and a liquids-rich unconventional play in western Canada. The Europe, Middle East and North Africa segment consists of operations and exploration activities in Norway, the United Kingdom and Libya. The Asia Pacific segment has explorations and product operations in China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Australia. The Other International segment handles exploration activities in Columbia and Argentina. The company was founded in 1875 and is headquartered in Houston, TX.

Read MoreBank of America Corp. is a bank and financial holding company, which engages in the provision of banking and nonbank financial services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking, Global Wealth and Investment Management, Global Banking, Global Markets, and All Other. The Consumer Banking segment offers credit, banking, and investment products and services to consumers and small businesses. The Global Wealth and Investment Management provides client experience through a network of financial advisors focused on to meet their needs through a full set of investment management, brokerage, banking, and retirement products. The Global Banking segment deals with lending-related products and services, integrated working capital management and treasury solutions to clients, and underwriting and advisory services. The Global Markets segment includes sales and trading services, as well as research, to institutional clients across fixed-income, credit, currency, commodity, and equity businesses. The All Other segment consists of asset and liability management activities, equity investments, non-core mortgage loans and servicing activities, the net impact of periodic revisions

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of TransDigm Group: ARA Deutschland GmbH, ARA Holding GmbH, Abbott Electronics Ltd., Acme Aerospace, Acme Aerospace Inc., Adams Rite Aerospace GmbH, Adams Rite Aerospace Inc., Advanced Inflatable Products Limited, Aero-Instruments, AeroControlex Group Inc., Aerosonic, Aerosonic LLC, Air-Sea Survival Equipment Trustee Limited, Airborne Acquisition Inc., Airborne Global Inc., Airborne Holdings Inc., Airborne Systems, Airborne Systems Canada Ltd., Airborne Systems Group Limited, Airborne Systems Holdings Limited, Airborne Systems Limited, Airborne Systems NA Inc., Airborne Systems North America Inc., Airborne Systems North America of CA Inc., Airborne Systems North America of NJ Inc., Airborne Systems Pension Trust Limited, Airborne UK Acquisition Limited, Airborne UK Parent Limited, Aircraft Materials Limited, AmSafe, AmSafe Aviation (Chongqing) Ltd., AmSafe Bridport (Kunshan) Co. Ltd., AmSafe Bridport (Private) Ltd., AmSafe Bridport Ltd., AmSafe Global Holdings Inc., AmSafe Global Services (Private) Limited, AmSafe Inc., Arkwin Industries, Arkwin Industries Inc., Aviation Technologies, Aviation Technologies Inc., Avionic Instruments, Avionics Instruments, Avionics Specialties Inc., AvtechTyee Inc., Beta Transformer Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Beta Transformer Technology Corporation, Beta Transformer Technology LLC, Breeze-Eastern Corporation, Breeze-Eastern LLC, Bridport Erie Aviation Inc., Bridport Holdings Inc., Bridport Ltd., Bridport-Air Carrier Inc., Bruce Aerospace Inc., Bruce Industries, CDA InterCorp, CEF Industries LLC, Champion Aerospace, Cobham, DDC Electronics K.K., DDC Electronics Ltd., DDC Electronics Private Limited, DDC Electronique S.A.R.L., DDC Elektronik GmbH, DDL195 Limited, Data Device Corp., Data Device Corporation, Dukes Aerospace Inc., Edlaw Limited, Electromech Technologies LLC, Elektro-Metall Export GmbH, Elektro-Metall Paks KFT, Esterline, Extant Components Group Holdings Inc., Extant Components Group Intermediate Inc., GQ Parachutes Limited, HARCO LLC, Harco, Hartwell Corporation, ILC Holdings Inc., Irvin Aerospace Limited, IrvinGQ France SAA, IrvinGQ Limited, Johnson Liverpool LLC, Kirkhill Elastomers, Kirkhill Inc., Kunshan Shield Restraint Systems Ltd., MarathonNorco Aerospace Inc., McKechnie Aerospace, McKechnie Aerospace (Europe) Ltd., McKechnie Aerospace DE Inc., McKechnie Aerospace DE LP, McKechnie Aerospace Holdings Inc., McKechnie Aerospace US LLC, Mecanismos de Matamoros S.A. de C.V., Militair Aviation Ltd., Norco, Nordisk Asia Pacific Limited, Nordisk Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, Nordisk Aviation Products (Kunshan) Ltd., Nordisk Aviation Products AS, North Hills Signal Processing Corp., North Hills Signal Processing Overseas Corp., Pascall Electronics Limited, Pemberton 123 Ltd., Pexco Aerospace, Pexco Aerospace Inc., PneuDraulics, PneuDraulics Inc., Rancho TransTechnology Corporation, Retainers Inc., SSP Industries, Schneller, Schneller Asia Pte. Ltd., Schneller S.A.R.L., Schroth Safety Products, Semco Instruments, Semco Instruments Inc., Shield Restraint Systems Inc., Shield Restraint Systems Ltd., Signal Processing Matamoros S.A. de C.V., Skandia, Skandia Inc., Skurka Aerospace, Skurka Aerospace Inc., Symetrics, Symetrics Industries LLC, Symetrics Technology Group LLC, TDG Germany GmbH, TEAC Aerospace Holdings Inc., TEAC Aerospace Technologies Inc., TTERUSA Inc., Tactair Fluid Controls Inc., Takata Protection Systems, Technical Airborne Components Industries SPRL, Telair International, Telair International AB, Telair International GmbH, Telair International LLC, Telair International Services PTE Ltd (JV 70.5%), Telair US LLC, Texas Rotronics Inc., TransDigm (Barbados) SRL, TransDigm European Holdings Limited, TransDigm Ireland Ltd., TransDigm Receivables LLC, TransDigm UK Holdings plc, Transicoil (Malaysia) Sendirian Berhad, Transicoil LLC, Whippany Actuation Systems, Whippany Actuation Systems LLC, XCEL Power Systems Ltd., Young & Franklin, and Young & Franklin Inc..Webcam hosting service will be discontinued on October 21, 2021. Read more about our decision here.(SINGAPORE)  It will be a bumpy road to the nuclear negotiations with North Korea later this month, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis warned Sunday, telling his South Korean and Japanese counterparts they must maintain a strong defensive stance so the diplomats can negotiate from a position of strength.

Mattis was speaking at the start of a meeting with South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo and Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera on the final day of the Shangri-La Dialogue security conference. He said allies must remain vigilant.

We can anticipate, at best, a bumpy road to the negotiations, Mattis said. In this moment we are steadfastly committed to strengthening even further our defense cooperation as the best means for preserving the peace.

Plans are moving forward for a nuclear weapons summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore. And Mattis repeated the U.S. position that North Korea will only receive relief from U.N. national security sanctions when it demonstrates verifiable and irreversible steps to denuclearization.

Through an interpreter, Song said that this is a great turning point as North Korea takes its first steps toward denuclearization.

Of course, given North Koreas past, we must be cautious in approaching this, he added that some of North Koreas recent measures give us reasons to be positive and one can be cautiously optimistic as we move forward.Francisco Goya's 1795 painting St. Francis Borgia Helping a Dying Impenitent - www.alamy.com

It is a phenomenon that is on the rise throughout the world: The number of cases of demonic possession - and demands for priests to carry out exorcisms - is, according to multiple sources, soaring.

Medical science remains sceptical. However, a Princeton-and-Yale-educated mainstream psychiatrist believes demonic possession is indeed very real - and claims that the majority of Americans agree with him.

With 25 years experience in a private psychiatric practice and as a professor at New York Medical College and Columbia University, Dr Richard Gallagher has a rare vantage point to observe human behavior. And then there is the inhuman.

Gallagher

He is also a sought-after psychiatrist for discernment, the initial step in determining the need for exorcism. Dr Gallagher has evaluated hundreds of cases of possible possession and, in a wide-ranging and rare interview with the Telegraph, explains why he believes the phenomenon is genuine.

In April, at a Vatican training course for exorcist priests, participants were told that demand for exorcism is booming as a result of a decline in Christian faith and the internet providing easy access to black magic, the occult and Satanism.

Theyre very, very smart. The intelligence level of a fallen angel, which is what I call them, is far superior to human beings

Dr Gallagher on demons

Pope Francis has repeatedly reminded his followers that Satan is "a real being, roaming the Earth to devour souls like a lion". In April, he wrote: Hence, we should not think of the Devil as a myth, a representation, a symbol, a figure of speech or an idea. This mistake would lead us to let down our guard, to grow careless and end up more vulnerable. He observed that life can be a constant struggle against the devil, the prince of evil.

Last year, speaking to priests attending a Vatican course on confession, the Pope said confessors should not hesitate to refer penitents who are suffering from genuine spiritual disturbances to exorcists. Describing the Rite of Exorcism as a delicate and necessary ministry, the Pope admonished that exorcist priests must be selected with great care and great prudence.

Story continues

In the US, the number of priest exorcists has increased from twelve to fifty over the past decade. While demand for exorcism continues to surge, Dr Gallaghers medical assessment of whether a person is mentally ill or possessed by demons will determine whether some exorcisms are conducted.

Pope Francis at his weekly address on April 25 2008, during which he reportedly praised exorcisms as a 'way to fight against evil' and 'escape from the power of sin' Credit: Barcroft Media

He is not the only American psychiatrist who evaluates for possession - there are many others who consult on discernment. But Dr Gallagher is one of the few who is willing to talk about it. He has also written a forthcoming book on the subject, being published by Harper Collins, called Demonic Foes, A Psychiatrist Investigates Demonic Possession in the Modern United States.

There are many other psychiatrists and mental health care professionals who do what I do - perhaps not to the scope that I do - who seem hesitant to speak out," he explained. "Thats what gives my work some singularity. That I have had so much experience and that I am willing to speak out. I feel an obligation to speak out. I think that I should.

Dr Richard Gallagher, a Princeton-and-Yale-educated psychiatrist Credit: Rachel Ray

Of the cases referred to him for possible possession, he noted that they are people who suffer tremendously.

There is very strict criteria for determining the persons problem. I am not just intuiting. Im dealing with it from a very scientific point of view, he said.

Speaking to the Telegraph at his office in Westchester County New York, Dr Gallagher said that while possession is very rare, in his medical opinion, it is real. There are cases of spirit possession in pretty much every culture, he said. He has evaluated cases referred to him by priests, rabbis, Christian ministers and representatives of other spiritual traditions.

Dr Gallagher does not view himself as being outside the American mainstream in his beliefs about the existence of demons. Noting that the United States is a more religious country than somewhat secular countries in Europe, he cited poll numbers indicating that about 70 to 75 per cent of Americans believe in the Devil and at least half of those believe that demons have the ability to affect human beings, possessed or otherwise.

How does exorcism work?

Then you can go to some countries like Madagascar where about 100 per cent of the population believes in spirit possession," he said. "So it varies a lot from country to country. Haiti is another country that believes a lot in demons and spirit possession. It depends on what subculture youre addressing. Some secular subcultures on the east coast and the west coast of the United States are very sceptical but the majority of Americans are not only open to these ideas but believe them. So I dont feel that Im out of the mainstream.

At one time, Dr Gallagher, a board certified psychiatrist with a primary focus on individual psychotherapy and psycho pharmacology, was also doubtful. Although a practicing Catholic, he had never volunteered to evaluate people for possession. But early in his medical career two prominent exorcists, one of whom helped found the International Association of Exorcists, referred cases to him that were so dramatic, he concluded that possession exists. One such flamboyant and dramatic case was that of Julia".

History of exorcism in the Catholic Church

Julia: 'A once-in-a-century case of possession'

Julia gave Dr Gallagher permission to write about her on the condition that her name and other identifying information such as where she lived in the US be changed. Other than those details, he said he took no literary license in telling her story.

A direct worshipper of Satan and a self-described high priestess of a cult, Julias demonic possession was not in question. The core concern for the exorcism team was whether she could leave the cult so that the exorcism would succeed in liberating her from possession.

Jesus Christ healing a mute man by performing an exorcism, as described in Luke 11:14, in an engraving from Merian's Illustrated Bible, published c. 1627 Credit: Rex

Dr Gallagher was brought onto the team to talk to her about her ambivalence in leaving the cult and her fears and anxieties about the possession. The cult was like a home to Julia and she was in love with the cult leader. She told Dr Gallagher, regarding the cults power over her: The sex orgies are a pretty big part of it. But it was not just the sex. Julia had paranormal abilities that did not exist before joining the cult, according to Dr Gallagher. She directly attributed these abilities to Satan:

I worship Satan. I dont know about this God thing. Theres a lot of crap in the world. I dont see how people can believe in a good God. But Satan I know. He gives me favours.

Julia revelled in her psychic ability and demonstrated her powers for Dr Gallagher. At 3am one morning, the Gallaghers normally placid cats went berserk fighting in the couples bedroom and had to be separated. Such behaviour had never happened before and has never happened since. Later that morning, Dr Gallagher was introduced to Julia for the first time. According to the psychiatrist: The first thing out of her mouth was So Dr Gallagher, how did you like the cats last night?. I even have a letter from her to a priest that says we raised a little hell in Dr Gallaghers house last night.

A Haitian voodoo follower wearing white clothes is seen in trance while participate in a voodoo ceremony in Souvenance, a suburb of Gonaives, 171km north of Port-au-Prince, on April 1, 2018 Credit: AFP

On another occasion, Julia demonstrated her ability at remote viewing. She told Dr Gallagher we really hate Father -------, referring to a priest on the exorcism team. She explained that it was her job to keep an eye on him although she lived in a different part of the United States. Whereupon she described the priest at that moment walking along a beach in his blue windbreaker and khaki pants and hes saying prayers. Dr Gallagher promptly called the priest on his mobile phone and confirmed everything that Julia had described. The priest noted that normally he would be in his rectory at that time but on that particular day had decided to say his breviary while walking on the beach.

I worship Satan. I dont know about this God thing. Theres a lot of crap in the world. I dont see how people can believe in a good God. But Satan I know. He gives me favours

Julia

A sign of true possession is the victim going into a trance as the demons take over the body. The victim of full-blown possession typically will not recall what happened after coming out of the trance. In his multiple consultations with Julia, Dr Gallagher heard a demonic voice taking over. The voice would say things from Julias body such as "leave her alone you ----ing priest! You monkey priest - shes ours! The voice would continue for about five minutes and then she would come out of the trance. Julia would then say to him: What just went on?

A voodoo devotee with a skull on top of his head is seen during ceremonies honoring the Haitian voodoo spirit of Baron Samdi and Gede on the Day of the Dead in the Cementery of Cite Soleil, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on November 1, 2017 Credit: AFP

Dr Gallagher heard the same voice break into a phone conversation with one of the exorcism team priests. Julia was thousands of miles from his office in New York at the time. Speaking with the priest about Julias next exorcism, the doctor explained that because of a scheduling conflict he would not be able to attend. The same voice that had emanated from Julia while she was in a trance now broke into the call, stating: We told you, shes ours, you leave her alone! Dr Gallagher asked the priest on the call if he had heard the voice too, to which the priest replied: Yes, its a dramatic case.

Julia feared for her life in the Satanic cult and also worried that the cult leader was falling out of love with her because she was aging. And just as a crazy person might fear being labelled possessed, Julia feared being labelled crazy and being admitted to a mental hospital. But her exorcism, consisting of multiple attempts, ultimately failed because she could not leave the cult and continued to worship Satan.

Gallagher number 2

About a year after the last failed attempt at liberation, Julia called one of the team priests and said she wanted to resume the exorcisms because she had cancer and did not want to die demonically possessed. The priest, described by Dr Gallagher as a very kindly man, told her that he wanted Dr Gallagher to evaluate her again. Although he believes that Julia always told him the truth, Dr Gallagher requested permission to review medical records from her oncologist. Julia told him that she had to think about it. He and the priest never heard from her again and presume that she died.

History of exorcism in religions other than Catholicism

Demonic Foes, A Psychiatrist Investigates Demonic Possession in the Modern United States

Dr Gallaghers forthcoming book will be the first mainstream publication by an experienced, highly credentialed American psychiatrist presenting research and case studies on church-referred discernment. In an endorsement of Dr Gallaghers research, Joseph English, former Psychiatry Department Chairman at New York Medical College, stated:

Contrary to a widespread impression, such phenomena (suspected demonic possession) not only continue to be reported in todays world, but they still defy easy explanation as simplistically conceived medical or psychiatric disorders.

Two of the most popular books published to date on demonic possession are Glimpses of the Devil by Scott Peck and Hostage to the Devil by Malachi Martin. Both authors are deceased. Dr Gallagher describes his book as a much broader treatment of the subject of possession. He goes into the history of the concept, how to discern and which cases cause confusion, and describes people who may think they are possessed but are not.

Such people could be suffering from seizure disorders or other neurological disorders such as temporal lobe epilepsy. People hearing the devils voice might be psychotic and having auditory hallucinations. Others suffering from delusions that they are possessed might be bipolar, schizophrenic, or have drug-related conditions.

malachi martin scott peck

Dr Gallagher noted that borderline or anti-social people can have an internal battle of evil warring with a sense of decency. People who are suggestible and the histrionic may have the misconception that there is a demonic presence around them and/or that they are being manipulated by other people into believing that. Those with multiple personality disorders might have an evil alter ego that can be misinterpreted as demonic by overly credulous or fundamentalist people, according to Dr Gallagher.

Demonic Foes profiles dramatic possession cases discerned by Dr Gallagher who gave their permission for their stories to be told. Julia is one.

Discernment

The discernment process requires a broad spectrum of information. Dr Gallagher not only examines and interviews the victim but also speaks to the clergy involved and the victims family. A challenge of discernment is gathering enough information. If Dr Gallagher has enough history and information he says he can make a determination in one meeting with the victim. Sometimes it takes several meetings.

The Exorcism by Francisco de Goya

Dr Gallagher will want to know if the victim turned to evil, was heavily involved in the occult, or was a Satanist, which he believes is a rare phenomenon. He noted that this kind of history is typical of people who are possessed. There are other specific criteria used to evaluate for possession: the ability to speak in other languages, abnormal strength, paranormal ability, and the knowledge of secret things. What all those criteria have in common, he said, is that they are indicative of another entity being in possession of the person.

Dr Gallagher has heard demonic voices come out of possessed people when they are in trance-like states, which they go in and out of. When they come out of the trance they are more or less themselves but do not remember what happened.

The clergy of many different faiths who have sent people to me sense that something is happening that is of the world beyond

Dr Gallagher

Over time, people have offered inadequate explanations for the manifestation of possession criteria, Dr Gallagher said. For example, a theory is espoused that knowledge of hidden things really just amounts to a cold reading, which law enforcement officers can be trained to do by observing facial expressions. But the hidden knowledge of someone who is possessed is true esoteric knowledge. Julia, for example, accurately told Dr Gallagher how his mother had died.

The Exorcism

Dr Gallagher has directly observed 100 full blown possessions over the past twenty-five years. He has attended a few hundred other exorcisms as an observer, none of whom were his patients. He only attends exorcisms where the team knows what theyre doing. And that includes proper restraint of the victim to prevent that person from trying to run away or attack the exorcist. In the United States, the victim must sign a legal form indicating they have agreed to the ritual. According to Dr Gallagher, when the demonic is accessed, the demon is in control and would do all sort of things if not restrained.

Sir Anthony Hopkins plays a Jesuit exorcist who runs an exorcism course in Rome in the 2011 film The Rite Credit: Rex

Attending an exorcism, Dr Gallagher says, is spooky and creepy. He draws a comparison to his experiences interviewing terrorists and criminals committed to an evil life. Describing himself as pretty devout, Dr Gallagher says he has people praying for him when he attends an exorcism and is not afraid because he believes hes on the winning side.

He has heard victims speak in different languages, noting that demons know all languages. When priests are conducting the Rite in Latin, victims are clearly following along, Dr Gallagher said, and will often comment in English. An entity with a nasty attacking personality with one or more of the other criteria for possession is demonic. He said he had seen all those traits on one or more occasions.

exorcism

At one exorcism, the priest was reciting prayers in Latin, which Dr Gallagher knows and the priest knew, and the demon in the possessed woman was sarcastically commenting on it. According to Dr Gallagher, the woman had the equivalent of an education up to around age 14 and was not Catholic at the time. She had never been exposed to Latin. He said the following dialogue occurred:

Priest: Credo in unum Deum (I believe in one God)." Victim/demon, sarcastically: Well I dont.

Priest: Tertio die resurrexit (he rose on the third day)." Victim/demon: No he didnt.

Priest: Descendit ad infernum (on the third day Christ descended into hell)." Victim/demon: And hes still there.

Priest: Ad vitam aeternum (life everlasting)." Victim/demon, wearily: There is no life.

A scene from the 1973 film The Exorcist Credit: Rex

Dr Gallagher believes that demons have been observing human beings since the beginning of time. "Theyre very, very smart. The intelligence level of a fallen angel, which is what I call them, is far superior to human beings. Which is why they denigrate human beings. They sometimes call us monkeys," he said.

Jennifer Carpenter in the 2005 film The Exorcism of Emily Rose

Eight people, including two nuns and two priests, told Dr Gallagher that Julia levitated during one of her exorcisms and he believes them although he was not an eyewitness. But he would not believe film or videotape showing levitation. Demons are intelligent, malevolent, manipulative creatures. They arent going to perform for a camera. They know theyre being taped, he said.

Cardinal Ernest Simoni at a course for aspiring exorcists in Rome in April 2018 Credit: Reuters

He does not believe in group exorcisms, which he says can potentially harm the merely mentally ill, preventing them from getting the medical help they need. For the truly possessed, he said, the ritual must be done privately not publicly. And he is opposed to anyone who charges for an exorcism as it goes against biblical teaching.

Dr Gallagher made it clear that he has discerned possession only in cases where it was already suspected. The clergy of many different faiths who have sent people to me sense that something is happening that is of the world beyond. These victims, he said, should not be left to suffer because of the scepticism of conventional medical opinion.TNI Staff

Security, Asia

U.S. President Trump talks with media afdter meeting with North Korean envoy Kim at the White House in Washington

Jacob Heilbrunn and Harry Kazianis discuss Trumps decision to meet with the North Korean leader.

Its Back On: Trump Will Meet with North Koreas Kim Jong Un

Editor's Note: In our latest Facebook Live interview (please like our Facebook page to see more of these events) Jacob Heilbrunn, editor of the National Interest, and Harry Kazianis, director of defense studies at the Center for the National Interest, discuss Trumps decision to meet with Kim Jong-un.

Harry Kazianis recently wrote on how Trump can prevent getting played by North Korea. An excerpt of the article can be found below:

There are moments when a person must stare into the abyss to see the possibilitiesor perilsof the choice before him. In many respects, that could be the simplest of explanations as to why Kim Jong-un has offered, and President Trump has accepted, to meet to negotiate what could be the greatest diplomatic opening since Nixon went to China in 1972.

We are a long way from such a moment. Just because Kim has offered to sit down and talk to President Trump and discuss denuclearization doesnt mean that peace is at hand on the Korean peninsula. Far from it.

In many respects, what North Korea is doing is throwing the ultimate Hail Mary passand Donald Trump is 90 yards downfield with three all-start cornerbacks defending him.

But history tells this likely isnt the diplomatic equivalent of a David Tyree moment, the moment when the New York Giants receiver hauled down Eli Mannings pass to win Super Bowl XLII. The cold, hard truth is that North Korea has offered talks followed by months and sometimes years of fruitless efforts to drive towards a bargain many times in the past. All the while, Pyongyangs nuclear weapons and missile arsenal improves a little more every single day. There is no reason to think Kim Jong-Un is just dusting off the old North Korean playbookagain.

If talks were to fail, and that is a very distinct possibility given the lack of mutual trust, decades of hostility and the simple fact that North Koreas nuclear weapons are its true only trump cardno pun intendedit will likely stem from the fact that each side approaches them with wildly different sets of starting points for negotiations. Washington and Pyongyang will blame the other for failure, and we could very well go back to the same set of conditions that brought us to the brink of war last year, or worse: missile and nuclear tests followed by threats of a military strike. Indeed, the diplomatic fallout from a collapse in talks could be so severe that Trump may feel politically he may have no choice but to strike with all the falloutgeopolitically as well as atomicallythat comes with it. The stakes are thus very high indeed.

Story continues

How to avoid this dire scenario?

In my view, there are five things Team Trump must do.

First, we must ensure we have a clear understanding with South Korea as well as Japan about our collective diplomatic redlines. What sort of deal is acceptable to Washington but also South Korea and Japan, two nations that due to geographic proximity must live with such a deal? All three capitals must be on the same diplomatic page for talks to succeed.

Next, the meeting can only take place in one place: South Korea, with the best option being in the stark setting of the Demilitarized Zone. Here is where Trump must avoid a clear trap by Kim, as he is likely to demand the meeting be held in North Koreathe optics proving he has defeated his imperialist enemy for good. No way. Trump would risk legitimizing a tyrant who has 100,000 or more of his citizens imprisoned in a modern-day Gulag and who had his own brother murdered with VX gas, not to mention countless other sanguinary acts against members of his own regime. If North Korea demands the talks take place on Kims home court, Trump must refuse.

Third, Trump must explain to Kim that there will be no letup in planned U.S.-South Korea joint military exercises, especially the Foal Eagle exercise, later this month. Sovereign nations and allies have the right to train their forces, just as North Korea did all winter long. If Pyongyang demands these exercises being cancelled, Trump once more needs to hold firm.

Also, for talks to commence, North Korea must detail a preliminary roadmap as to what it would offer in terms of denuclearization. If Pyongyang refuses to offer even the faintest idea of how it will eliminate its nuclear weapons, and it looks like Kim is just playing for time, Trump needs to decline his invitation.

Finally, and most important, the maximum pressure campaign initiated by Trump, which is surely the reason the Kim regime issued its invite, must not be deployed as a bargaining chip to ensure that Kim actually meets with Trump. If the North makes any economic demands for the simple pleasure of a meetingsomething it has done time and time againthen we will know that North Korea is simply trying to weaken the sanctions regime without making any concessions.

If Trump remains tough, he will know quickly whether Washington and Pyongyang can truly make historyor whether they are on a path to armed conflict.

Image: Reuters

Read full articleBy MacDonald Dzirutwe HARARE (Reuters) - A play that was banned by Robert Mugabe about a 1980s government crackdown in which rights groups say 20,000 civilians were killed has been performed in Zimbabwe for the first time. The play, "1983, The Dark Years", was stopped by the censors in 2012 but following November's de facto army coup against Mugabe, its director feels political freedoms are improving. The now president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, was Mugabe's security minister at the time and many say he played a big role during the Gukurahundi massacres - making the play's airing, just months after he took power, even more significant. "We, as a theater group thought it is the right time to try and trigger this kind of debate whereby we need the nation to actually know what happened because as we speak the nation is divided by this term (Gukurahundi)," director and actor Adrian Musa, told Reuters after the show. The massacres began after Mugabe said his government had discovered weapons hidden by former liberation fighters belonging to PF-ZAPU led by his rival Joshua Nkomo, whom he accused of plotting an insurgency. In the local Shona language, Gukurahundi means "the early rain that washes away the chaff". "This is a very sensitive issue and where we come from in Matabeleland if you term the word Gukurahundi people will start raising their eyebrows to see who is talking," Musa said. During Mugabe's near 40-year rule, few families and victims, mostly minority Ndebeles, spoke openly about the Gukurahundi offensive carried out by a North Korean-trained brigade. Mugabe has called the period a "moment of madness". Mnangagwa has never publicly addressed in Zimbabwe any role he played, but when asked about it at the Davos meeting of world leaders in January, he said: "The most important thing is that what has happened has happened, what can we do about the past? "We would like to say wherever wrong was committed, the government of the day must apologize. Wherever any community has suffered any injury, if it is that injury that has to be repaired, we do it." The play is set in Gwanda, southwest Zimbabwe, which experienced some of the worst atrocities. In the play, soldiers in red berets chase after an elderly woman and hang her on a tree and in other scene, soldiers high on dagga amputate a man's leg with a bayonet and chop off a high school boy's genitals. When a Reuters reporter in February visited Sawudeni, a village west of Harare where some of the killings took place, villagers said they wanted Mnangagwa and Mugabe to apologize publicly and compensate the families of victims. "In my opinion we have been parking the issue of Gukurahundi for a very long time," said Davis Guzha, executive director at the theater company that brought the show to Harare. "If anything, because the president keeps talking about 'Zimbabwe is open for business,' let's discuss everything." (Editing by James Macharia and Alison Williams)In an interview with controversial host Bill Maher, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders attacked President Donald Trump and said the presidents penchant for authoritarians is something that should worry all Americans.

Sanders says this is one of the many reasons the 2018 midterms are so important.

Its the most important because we have a president who is a pathological liar, Sanders told Maher on Real Time with Bill Maher Friday. We have a president who has strong authoritarian tendencies, who wants to everyday undermine American democracy.

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While Maher said politicians have long cried wolf when it comes to the most important election in history, he said it really is this time. Sanders concurred, saying its time for the people who made this country to come together to stop Trump.

In my state and all over this country [we] have men and women who have fought and died to defend American democracy and this guy looks all over the world and he kind of likes all of these authoritarian leaders, Sanders said. He attacks the media every day, trying to make it harder for them to be critical of him.

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Sanders said that while people rightly criticize Trump, the Democrats have to have an actual agenda and message this year. Frankly from a political point of view, it's not good enough to attack trump every single day, he said. 2016, it's not that Trump won, its the Democrats lost.

He said its time to focus on people who take showers at the end of the day not at the beginning of the day.

We're overwhelmed with Trumps tweets and the absurdity of today, Sanders added. We gotta unite, bring our community together to take on the most outrageous president in the history of this country.

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Story continues

Fridays show marked the first time Maher was on the air since he became the focus of conservative outrage following Roseanne Barrs racist Valerie Jarrett tweet. Barrs show was canceled by ABC after the comedian compared Jarrett to an ape.

Many conservative commentators went after Maher for Hollywoods double standard because he has compared Trump an orangutan before. "I'm so old I remember when Bill Maher claimed President Trump's "mother had sex with an orangutan" and kept his job," Jack Posobiec said.

Bernie-Sanders

Win McNamee/Getty Images

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekTwo bobcat kittens taken in by a Texas woman who says she thought they were domestic cats have died from feline parvovirus. (Photo: City of San Antonio Animal Care Services)

Two bobcat kittens have died after a Texas woman said she thought they were domestic kittens and took them into her home earlier this month.

We are saddened by this tragedy but must take this important opportunity to repeat the message that wild animals should be left alone and only belong in the wild, Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Inc. said in a Thursday Facebook post announcing the deaths. The group had been caring for the bobcats after the family surrendered them to authorities.

Earlier this month, the kittens made headlines after San Antonio woman Jane Dinscore told city animal care workers that she found the felines in an alleyway and was attempting to rescue them, thinking they were domestic cats. However, she later changed her story, telling local media that her brother actually found them on his property in rural Atascosa County.

In both versions, Dinscore maintained she always initially believed the kittens were domestic cats. She contacted San Antonios Animal Care Services, she said, after the kittens started behaving aggressively, biting her and her family and ripping up milk bottles. It was then that animal care workers determined they were actually wild bobcats.

One of the two kittens shortly after Dinscore turned them over to San Antonio Animal Care Services. (Photo: San Antonio Animal Care Services)

Dinscore received a criminal citation on May 15, local news station KSAT 12 reported. It was not immediately clear what the specific citation against her was.

Mason Payne, a veterinarian for the wildlife rehab group, told KSAT 12 that the kittens died from feline parvovirus. The virus causes feline panleukopenia, a serious and highly contagious disease that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including vomiting, dehydration, fever and neurological symptoms.

Payne said its possible that the kittens were taken from their mother too early, increasing their susceptibility to the illness.

Because of their history and how they came to WRR, it is impossible to know whether the bobcats received proper immunity from their mothers colostrum  the first milk produced by the mother  which would have transferred antibodies to the two kittens, he said.

Story continues

On Facebook, WRR also noted that the experience of being separated from their mother and natural habitat would have likely put stress on their immune systems.

The group had previously hoped to rehabilitate the cats and release them into a protected area.

Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Zachary Keck

Security, Asia

Will the deal be worth it for Moscow in the long-run?

China's Last Order of Russia's Su-35 Fighter Is Coming This Year

The last of the Su-35s that China is purchasing from Russia will be delivered this year, according to a Russian state-owned corporation.

During the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum from May 2426, Rostec, a state-owned company, announced that the last ten Su-35s would be delivered to China in 2018, according to reports in Russian media. Rostect was the entity that officially signed the agreement for the fighter jets with the Chinese government. Beijing became the first foreign country to purchase the Su-35 when it agreed to pay $2.5 billion for twenty-four planes in November 2015.

As the National Interest has previously noted, China received the first four planes from Russia in late 2016 before getting another ten Su-35s last year. Beijing formally inducted the Su-35s into service in April of this year. The Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) has commissioned Su-35 fighter jets, a spokesperson for Chinas Ministry of Defense said at the time. As a multi-role fighter jet, the Su-35 is capable of precision strikes on ground and sea targets. Even before then, in February 2018, Chinas Su-35s took part in air combat drills over the South China Sea. According to media outlets, this was the first time Beijing had sent the planes on a public deployment.

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The Su-35 is Russias most advanced fighter jet, and is often referred to as a 4++ generation fighter. While based off of the Su-27, the Su-35 offers a number of significant improvements, including high maneuverability as well as advanced electronics. RT, the Russian-stated owned media outlet, has said that the plane is able to detect, track, and engage multiple targets at long ranges because it is equipped with a phased array antenna radar. The same source says each plane has an internal thirty millimeter cannon and twelve hardpoints capable of carrying eight thousand kilograms of missiles and bombs. The Su-35 also has a maximum speed of 2,500 kilometers per hour and a range of 3,400 kilometers (combat radius of 1,600 km).

Story continues

This range and the Su-35s high fuel capacity is perhaps of most interest to China as it greatly enhances Beijings ability to enforce its claims in the South China Sea. China claims roughly 90 percent of the South China Sea, various parts of which are also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, as well as Taiwan. It is an extreme challenge for Beijing to maintain a regular presence over the enormous waters, which are roughly 1.4 million square miles (2.25 million square kilometers). This can be mitigated by the construction of bases and airstrips on Beijings man-made islands in the South China Sea. Just last month Beijing landed H-6K bombers on Woody Island (a non-artificial island) in the Paracel Islands.

Still, having a longer-range aircraft like the Su-35 enhances Beijings ability to project sustained power in the South China Sea, allowing it to keep its aircraft on the mainland or bases closer to Chinas coast. As Peter Wood has noted for The Diplomat:

One important improvement of the Su-35 over the Su-27/J-11B is the ability to carry external fuel tanks . . . a major factor limiting the Su-27, which does not have aerial refueling capability. This is in addition to a 20 percent increase in fuel capacity over the Su-27 and air refueling capability. This later capability is another important part of Chinas strategy of increasing loiter times and distances.

Although China is the first foreign customer of the Su-35, negotiations between Beijing and Moscow over the Su-35 were fairly prolonged. China first expressed interest in purchasing the jets in 2006, and Beijing and Moscow spent the better part of five years trying to reach an agreement. In 2012, the two sides signed a preliminary agreement but talks continued to encounter obstacles. Most of these roadblocks related to technology transfers and Russias concerns that Beijing would reverse engineer the plane. This is what occured when Russia agreed to sell China two hundred Su-27SKs for $2.5 billion. Later, China debuted its own version of the Su-27 called the J-11B. Russia ended up cancelling part of that contract in protest of the J-11B.

There was also speculation that China was seeking the Su-35 for its engine, which some believed Beijing would use on its J-20. I assume the reason why they are buying twenty-four . . . is to get hold of some of the embedded technologies,: Roger Cliff, a Chinese military expert at CNA, said when the 2015 agreement was signed. The basic airframe of the Su-35 isnt much changed from the Su-27 and Su-30, which China already has, so presumably they are going after other things such as thrust-vectoring, the Su-35s passive electronically scanned array radar, or its infrared search-and-track system.

Zachary Keck (@ZacharyKeck) is a former managing editor of the National Interest.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Read full articleBeijing (AFP) - Liu Xia, widow of dissident Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo, has said she felt that loving her husband was a "crime" for which she had received a "life sentence", according to an audio recording released Friday.

Liu Xia, 57, has been under de facto house arrest -- despite facing no charges -- ever since her husband was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010, in a move that angered Beijing.

Liu Xiaobo, a veteran of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, died last year while serving an 11-year jail sentence for "subversion", making him the first Nobel laureate to die in custody since the era of Nazi Germany.

Liu Xia faces daily restrictions on movement and surveillance, although Chinese authorities maintain she is free.

In an emotional phone call with her close friend Chinese writer Liao Yiwu last week, Liu Xia said, "they should add a line to the constitution: 'Loving Liu Xiaobo is a serious crime -- it's a life sentence'".

"They are going to keep me here to serve out Xiaobo's sentence," Liu said, between bouts of continuous sobbing.

"I want to see just how much more cruel they can get and how much more shameless they will become; I want to see how much more depraved this world is."

Liao on Friday released a recording of the call through the US-based website China Change.

The German embassy offered in April to help Liu Xia travel to Germany but the move did not take place.

Liao asked her to wait until July to see if the authorities would allow her to travel out of China.

June is a month of particular political sensitivity for the ruling Communist Party, which heightens surveillance and censorship around June 4, the day China cracked down on democracy protesters in Beijing's Tiananmen Square.

Liao said their conversation left him feeling shocked and anguished.

"The 29th anniversary of the Tiananmen massacre is approaching, and I decided to send out this message to the world, continuing to call for her to be freed," he wrote in a letter that accompanied the recording.

Story continues

"Since when did love become a crime?"

Last month, dozens of the world's leading writers and artists, from Michael Chabon to Paul Auster and Khaled Hosseini, called on China to release Liu Xia in an online campaign.

AFP reporters have tried to visit Liu's home multiple times in recent years but were blocked each time by plain-clothes men.A blaze in southwest Colorado that is being called the 416 Fire was discovered 10 miles north of the small city of Durango on Friday morning and had spread to about 2,000 acres by Saturday.

The wildfire spread across an estimated 1,973 acres by late morning, according to a tweet and map by La Plata County. It started in the right of way of Highway 550, which remains closed for about 10 miles, and made its way into the San Juan National Forest. The county as of the afternoon used four heavy tankers, two air tankers, four helicopters, 14 engines and seven firefighting crews, to fight the inferno.

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There was no containment of the fire as of Saturday morning.

Mandatory evacuation was ordered for about 825 homes from Bakers Bridge at County Road 250, north to Electra Lake Road. A pre-evacuation notice was issued for about 760 residences from north Electra Lake to Meadow View Drive. Evacuees are being directed to Escalante Middle School in Durango, located at 141 Baker Lane.

United States Forest Service spokesman Jim Mackensen told The Durango Herald that winds on Saturday were lower than the previous day, but that fuel levels continued to pose a threat.

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Its likely we can loft embers at quite a distance, Mackensen said. Its going to depend on what the winds do with it.

USPS Colorado reported that the fire was impacting about 540 home deliveries along Highway 550 and that mails was being held at post offices.

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The county declared a state of local disaster on Friday evening.

Anyone wishing to help fire evacuees can donate money to the Community Emergency Relief Fund by the Community Foundation Serving Southwest Colorado, at 970-375-5807. The Discover Goodwill of Durango at 1230 Escalante Drive is accepting clothing and household donations.

Story continues

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekA dog on a Delta Airlines flight was found dead in its cage during a transfer stop in Detroit while on a flight from Arizona to New Jersey on Wednesday, the dog owners and airline said.

Alejandro the Pomeranian was on a Delta Airlines flight from Phoenix, Arizona to Newark, New Jersey on Wednesday and was placed in a kennel hold in the cargo hold of the plane. Michael Dellegrazie, who owned Alejandro with his girlfriend, said on Good Morning America on Saturday that they followed the airlines rules of having Alejandro undergo a physical before the flight from Phoenix to Newark.

The couple, who were moving from Phoenix to Newark, were shocked to find their dog dead and want to know what happened.

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I want to know what happened," said Michael Dellegrazie, one of Alejandros owners told Good Morning America. "The dog is not a pet. He's a member of our family.

964619950

Photo by Al Seib/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

Dellegrazies attorney, Evan Oshan, told Good Morning America that the plane had made a stop in Detroit and Alejandro was checked on.

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There was a stop in Detroit at approximately 6 oclock in the morning," Oshan told Good Morning America. "Alejandro was checked on. He was fine. Then approximately at 8 oclock and 8:30 in the morning, the dog was again checked on. He was dead, and there was vomit in the cage, according to Delta."

But, a spokesperson for Delta Airlines said Alejandro was pronounced dead after an airline employee had checked on the dog in between transfers Detroit to Newark, New Jersey. According to the spokesperson, the dog was not transferred onto the flight from Detroit to Newark.

Story continues

In a statement to Newsweek, Delta Airlines said they are working with Alejandros family and are conducting a review of the situation.

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We know pets are an important member of the family and we are focused on the well-being of all animals we transport. Delta is conducting a thorough review of the situation and have been working directly with Alejandros family to support them however we can. As part of that review, we want to find out more about why this may have occurred to ensure it doesnt happen again and we have offered to have Alejandro evaluated by a veterinarian to learn more, the statement read.

The Delta spokesperson also told Newsweek that the airline offered the couple several times to perform an independent necropsy on Alejandro, but was turned down.

The news comes just a few months after passengers blamed a United Airlines flight attendant for the death of a 10-month-old puppy after asking the family it was required of them to put the dog in an overhead bin. Since the incident, lawmakers introduced "the WOOF Act," which would force the Federal Aviation Administration to give fines for dogs kept in overhead bins if passed.

Update: This story has been updated to clarify that the dog was found dead in between transfers during the flight.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekPhoto: CBS New York

Yet another dog has been found dead on an airplane, and the devastated family wants answers.

Delta Air Lines said on Saturday it is investigating the death of Alejandro, an 8-year-old Pomeranian, who died after it traveled in one of its planes cargo holds during a cross-country flight, CBS reports.

The dog was traveling from Phoenix to Newark via Detroit this week, when he was found dead inside his cage.

I want to know what happened, said Michael Dellegrazie, who with his girlfriend was Alejandros owner. The dog is not a pet. Hes a member of our family.

There was a stop in Detroit at approximately 6 oclock in the morning, Dellegrazies attorney, Evan Oshan said in a statement to ABC. Alejandro was checked on. He was fine. Then approximately at 8 oclock and 8:30 in the morning, the dog was again checked on, he was dead, and there was vomit in the cage, according to Delta.

In a statement to ABC News, Delta said, We know pets are an important member of the family and we are focused on the well-being of all animals we transport. Delta is conducting a thorough review of the situation and have been working directly with Alejandros family to support them however we can. As part of that review, we want to find out more about why this may have occurred to ensure it doesnt happen again and we have offered to have Alejandro evaluated by a veterinarian to learn more.

Alejandro is the latest dog to be lost or killed on a cross-country flight. In March, a French bulldog died on a flight from Houston to New York after a United flight attendant told its owners to put the dog in an overhead bin. The dog, Kokito, suffocated.

This little guy fought hard for his life, filling our flight with his cries until he finally ran out of breath, passenger June Lara wrote on Facebook after the incident. United Airlines does not care about the safety of their furry travelers. This poor family paid $125 for their pet to be murdered in front of them.

Story continues

And last Tuesday, a woman traveling from Oregon to Kansas with her family on a United Airlines flight was stunned when she went to collect her dog from the cargo facility and instead discovered a Great Dane waiting in its place. Their dog had become the unwitting victim of a mix-up with the other dog, which was scheduled to fly to Japan.

The dog was flown back to her on a plane after landing in Japan.

They had no idea where the dog was, Swindle said.

According to the Department of Transportation, 506,994 animals were transported on U.S. airlines last year. Delta carried 57,479 animals in 2017, and said two of them died, CNBC reports.

Yahoo Lifestyle has contacted Delta for comment and will update this story when we hear back.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:Donald Trump, right, talks to Kim Yong Chol, left, outside of the White House - AP

Donald Trump has announced his June 12 meeting with Kim Jong-un is back on and revealed he is considering lifting economic sanctions on North Korea.

The US president reversed his cancellation of the Singapore summit from last week, telling reporters on Friday he would attend the meeting.

Mr Trump downplayed the chance of a sudden breakthrough, saying it would be the beginning of a process after years of hostility.

The announcement came after Mr Trump met Kim Yong Cho, one of Kims closest officials and a former North Korean spy chief, for talks in the Oval Office.

The meeting lasted more than 90 minutes and included discussions about economic sanctions. The president was also hand-delivered a letter from the North Korean leader.

Donald Trump, right, talks to Kim Yong Chol, left, outside of the White House Credit: AP Photo/Andrew Harnik

It marked a historic breakthrough in diplomacy  the first time a senior North Korean official has attended the White House for talks in 18 years.

Footage showed Mr Kim being greeted at the White Houses southern entrance by John Kelly, Mr Trumps chief of staff, before being walked into the building.

Around an hour and a half later, Mr Kim emerged with Mr Trump by his side. The pair talked via a translator, often shaking hands and smiling.

The US president eventually walked Mr Kim, who just a few years ago was subject to American sanctions, to his car and posed for photographs.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, Mr Trump confirmed that he would now attend the June 12 summit. He had cancelled the meeting last week.

Mr Trump said the talks went very well and offered insights into how he sees the process of denuclearisation happening.

The US president said June 12 would only be the start of a relationship, but added: I think youre going to have a very positive result in the end.

He raised the possibility of lifting sanctions on the North Korean regime  something his administration had previously suggested would only happen after full denuclearisation.

Story continues

Mr Trump said: "I look forward to the day I can take the sanctions off North Korea."

He added that he no longer wanted to use the phrase maximum pressure to describe his approach on North Korea.

That has been the defining policy of his administration towards the regime to date, involving ramping up sanctions on the regime to force it into talks.

Mr Trump also suggested that he and Kim could formally end the Korean War when they meet on June 12.

Kim Yong Chol, left, and John Kelly, centre, walking in the White House Credit: SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images

The announcement will intensify a frantic scramble to ensure all security and policy arrangements are in place for the summit, now less than two weeks away.

The Trump administration continues to hold Americas long-held aim of achieving complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of North Korea.

Senior US officials have suggested that the North Korea government will have to give up its nuclear programme in full before any economic sanctions are lifted.

However Kim has reportedly said he wants a phased approached, which would see the regime give up its programme in parts in return for some economic benefits.

Mr Trump has previously expressed interest in the idea. In recent weeks other world leaders and their aides have scrambled to meet Kim in an attempt to help shape expected talks on denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula.

Vladimir Putin offered an invitation for Kim to visit him in Russia through Sergey Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, who met the North Korean leader this week.

Xi Jinping, the Chinese president, and Moon Jae-in, the South Korean president, have both met Kim twice this year while a meeting with Shinzo Abe, the Japanese prime minister, remains possible.President Donald Trump pushed forward claims made on Fox News that former Central Intelligence Agency director John Brennan is a "liar" who has done "more to discredit" the federal agency than any other person in history.

The claims were originally made on Fox & Friends by Dan Bongino, a former secret service member who espouses conservative commentary. Trump tweeted Bongino's remarks on Brennan Saturday morning.

"John Brennan, no single figure in American history has done more to discredit the intelligence community than this liar," Trump quoted Bongino as saying. "Not only is he a liar, hes a liar about being a liar."

Trending: Justin Trudeau: Idea Canada Is a Security Threat to U.S. Is 'Insulting'

In a follow-up quote, Trump repeated Bongino's claims that the investigation into Russian meddling is a "scam" and that "Americans are being worked."

Brennan served as CIA director from 2013 to January 2017 after having been with the department for more than two decades. Since leaving the administration, he has been immensely and publically critical of Trump, stoking the president's notorious ire. Trump has slammed Brennan before through the veil of retweets, but the impetus for Saturday morning's rebuke may have been due to Brennan penning a scathing op-ed on Trump for The Washington Post, in which he defended himself against critics who say he should stay quiet on his animosity toward Trump.

"Presidents throughout the years have differed in their approaches to policy, based on political platforms, ideologies and individual beliefs," Brennan wrote. "Mr. Trump, however, has shown highly abnormal behavior by lying routinely to the American people without compunction, intentionally fueling divisions in our country and actively working to degrade the imperfect but critical institutions that serve us."

Don't miss: Critics Are 'Fat-Shaming' President Donald Trump, Fox News' Jesse Watters Says

Story continues

Brennan has also been critical on Twitter. When the president tweeted on March 5 that he believed that the Obama administration launched an investigation into election meddling to help former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Brennan called Trump a "charlatan."

"This tweet is a great example of your paranoia, constant misrepresentation of the facts, and increased anxiety and panic (rightly so) about the Mueller investigation," Brennan wrote. "When will those in Congress and the 30 percent of Americans who still support you realize you are a charlatan?"

Most popular: Donald Trump Isnt King: Watergate Prosecutor, Dems Say President Can Obstruct Justice

On March 17, he went even further, calling the blustery business mogul a "disgraced demagogue."

"When the full extent of your venality, moral turpitude, and political corruption becomes known, you will take your rightful place as a disgraced demagogue in the dustbin of history," Brennan tweeted at Trump. "You may scapegoat Andy McCabe, but you will not destroy America...America will triumph over you."

GettyImages-687321060 (1)

Alex Wong/Getty Images

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekCalifornia Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), a former mayor of San Francisco, is the odds-on favorite to become governor. (Photo: Bloomberg/Getty Images)

Gavin Newsom is doing something odd.

Californias lieutenant governor, the Democratic front-runner in this years race for governor, looks like hes trying to help GOP rival John Cox by trumpeting Coxs endorsement from President Donald Trump.

Newsom, and a pro-Newsom super PAC, have blanketed the airwaves with attacks against Republican John Cox that would sound an awful lot like an endorsement if a Republican campaign were airing them.

John Cox stands with Donald Trump and the NRA, the narrator in Newsoms 30-second ad intones.

Helping out a Republican in Tuesdays nonpartisan primary may seem counterintuitive, but its the result of the Golden States top two system for picking who will be on the ballot in November. The top two performers on Tuesday will proceed to the general election  regardless of the party they belong to.

While the move may help Newsom in the general election, some Democrats in California say he risks hurting the prospects of fellow party members in other races  and that could be a dangerous game as the national party looks to California in its quest to retake the U.S. House of Representatives.

Hes just going to screw everybody below him, said Natalie Higley, northern vice chair of the California Democratic Partys progressive caucus and a supporter of long-shot left-wing candidate Delaine Eastin, a former public schools chief in the state. Its almost like hes completely forgotten what its like to be in a smaller race.

Newsom seems to be going all in with this gambit.

While his campaign would not reveal the size of its ad buys when asked, the ad has aired statewide across Californias expensive media markets for over a month. That means it has surely cost the deep-coffered candidate more than a million dollars, if not more.

Newsoms team has also bombarded registered voters with text messages reminding them of the Trump endorsement. The campaign admitted to HuffPost that after an initial text-message blitz targeting registered Democrats, in subsequent blasts, it reached a broader universe of voters that includes the states Republicans.

Story continues

Just got this text from a @GavinNewsom "volunteer". His campaign prefers @TheRealJohnHCox. Guess what? I do too, and be careful what you wish for sneaky Gavin. #cagov #cagop pic.twitter.com/MfyLKrghrM  Tony Krvaric (@TonyKrvaric) May 22, 2018

And Newsom has made Trumps support for Cox a theme during his campaign stump speeches.

A broad array of election watchers view Newsoms focus on Cox as a sly way to avoid a costly race against a Democrat  the most competitive of whom is former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa  in a state where Republicans have not won a statewide election since 2006.

Newsom campaign spokesman Nathan Click claimed that the main goal was to draw a contrast between the front-runners, and insisted that the campaign did not micro-target Republicans. But he did acknowledge that these measures might have the effect of rallying Republicans behind Cox, and made no effort to deny the possible ancillary benefits of that.

Of course, public polling showed Newsom and Cox leading the pack  with Cox a distant second  as far back as early April, before the Newsom campaign began its ad blitz.

But the governors race isnt the only one this year, and some in Newsoms party worry that this Machiavellian tactic could increase overall Republican turnout in November, and thereby undermine the chances of Democrats flipping down-ballot seats.

Karen Bernal, chairwoman of the California Democratic Partys progressive caucus, and Cullen Tiernan  both progressive activists supporting Eastin for governor  voiced these concerns.

Newsoms move could crash the blue wave, said Tiernan, a Fremont-based Marine veteran who chairs the California Democratic Partys veterans caucus.

Villaraigosas campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But a billionaire-backed, pro-charter school super PAC supporting Villaraigosa pointed to Newsoms messaging as evidence that the lieutenant governor is putting his personal political fortunes ahead of his party and state.

This is in keeping with Gavin Newsoms track record, said Gary Borden, executive director for the California Charter Schools Association Advocates, the political arm of the trade association running the super PAC.

Republican John Cox, a San Diego businessman, is currently poised to make it into the general election for governor, preventing a two-Democrat race. (Photo: John Cox for Governor/Facebook)

Thats where theres another twist in the story. Bordens super PAC, Families and Teachers for Antonio, has also engaged in its own bit of expensive interference on the Republican side. In a bid to elevate Villaraigosa by depressing support for Cox, the nonpartisan pro-charter school group spent $1.1 million attacking Cox, a San Diego businessman and accountant, as insufficiently conservative. The super PAC hopes to boost Coxs more marginal conservative opponent, Assemblyman Travis Allen, to make room for Villaraigosa in the top two slots.

The pro-Villaraigosa super PAC claims that its kind of interference is different because it does not risk spiking Republican turnout in the same way. But that is less a reflection of the more moderate Villaraigosas principles and more a serendipitous feature of his underdog status.

Griping about Newsom is the latest Democratic headache unique to Californias top-two primary system.

The problems this system creates for Democrats in a high-enthusiasm year have been most evident in contentious House races in Southern California. In that part of the state, a glut of Democratic candidates threatens to split the Democratic vote between multiple contenders, locking the party out of the general election.

Whats more, the stakes are especially high in California, where Republicans hold just 14 of the states 53 congressional districts. Hillary Clinton won seven of those 14 districts in 2016, making the state especially fertile ground for Democratic pickups of the kind the party will need to retake the House in November.

The state party has long viewed the prospect of having two Democrats at the top of the ballot  in both the gubernatorial race and the Senate race, where Sen. Dianne Feinstein is likely to face fellow Democrat Kevin de Leon  as a silver lining in an unfortunate situation created by the top-two system. The theory goes that without a Republican gubernatorial or Senate candidate to support at the top of the ticket, Californias dejected Republicans would be more likely to stay home entirely and make it easier for Democrats in contentious House races.

A Newsom-Cox showdown for governor takes some of the air out of that scenario.

It compounds the top-two problem, said a prominent California Democratic activist who declined to be named for fear of undermining the likely Democratic front-runner.

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Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa (D) is running against California Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom as a slightly more moderate Democrat. (Photo: Lucy Nicholson / Reuters)

By all appearances though, the national Democratic Party does not share these concerns. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, which supports Democrats running for the House, has not issued any public statements aimed at discouraging Newsom.

A partisan race for the top of the ticket could possibly be a net-benefit on the Democratic side, said a national Democratic strategist familiar with the race. The fear of having a Republican governor could drive out Democrats more than the sort of motivation Cox could provide to Republicans.

Its of a piece with the argument that Newsoms campaign makes. Click, the Newsom campaign spokesman, noted that the nonpartisan primary had already cost over $50 million. A Newsom-Villaraigosa battle would undoubtedly cost tens of millions more, while a less competitive Newsom-Cox race would free up donor resources for down-ballot contests.

If Gavin is the Democrat in the race, the state party can run a fully coordinated campaign up and down the state, which, among other perks, would enable it to benefit more directly from Newsoms fundraising, Click argued.

One way or another, the exorbitant chess game that Newsom and Villaraigosa are playing strikes many Californians as still more evidence that the top-two nonpartisan primary system has been a failure.

The policy became law in 2011 thanks to Proposition 14, a 2010 ballot initiative promoted by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R). To restore the traditional partisan primary system, Californians would have to undo the current policy in a new referendum.

In the meantime, the policys biggest victims might just be the states hardened progressive activists, many of whom trace their involvement in politics to Bernie Sanders 2016 presidential run.

The states militantly progressive, pro-Sanders nurses union  the California Nurses Association  is backing Newsom, largely thanks to his pledge to prioritize implementing state-level single-payer health insurance. (Villaraigosa has made opposition to the proposal a centerpiece of his campaign.)

But Sanders-turned-Eastin backers like Bernal, Tiernan and Higley argue that an intra-Democratic contest for governor would offer more opportunities to pressure the eventual winner to embrace progressive positions.

By contrast, a contest between a Democrat and a Republican would encourage the Democratic candidate to court centrist voters  and potentially take progressives for granted.

And the candidates top-two-inspired gimmickry smacks of the cynical campaign tactics and backroom dealing that Sanders acolytes believe is a part of a rigged political system.

People are frustrated with the two-party system, and this was meant to be a way to address that, Tiernan said. But they just opened up a whole other can of worms.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story indicated California has 54 congressional districts. It has 53.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.President Donald Trump doesnt intend to pardon himself, Rudy Giuliani said on Sunday  but he probably does have the power to do so.

He has no intention of pardoning himself ... not to say he cant, Giuliani, a lawyer and adviser to Trump on the Russia probe, told ABCs George Stephanopoulos. He characterized the question of a self-pardon as a really interesting constitutional argument.

I think the political ramifications of that would be tough, he said. Pardoning other people is one thing. Pardoning yourself is another.

JUST IN: Does Pres. Trump have the power to pardon himself?



"He's not, but he probably does," Rudy Giuliani tells @GStephanopoulos. "He has no intention of pardoning himself, but that doesn't say he can't." https://t.co/IEUEWnjQqe #ThisWeek pic.twitter.com/IE1AocigYl  This Week (@ThisWeekABC) June 3, 2018

In another Sunday interview, this one on NBCs Meet The Press, Giuliani took a stronger stand on both the unlikeliness of such a move, and the possibility for political fallout.

Its not going to happen, he said, arguing that Trump had done nothing wrong that would require him to pardon himself.

He added that the president of the United States pardoning himself is unthinkable... it would probably lead to immediate impeachment.

House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) also weighed in against the idea. I dont think a president should pardon themselves, he said on CNNs State of the Union.

Preet Bharara, a former U.S. attorney fired by Trump, said on the same program that the idea of the president deciding to pardon himself as almost self-executing impeachment.

Story continues

Giuliani said on Meet The Press that Trump has the power to terminate any federal investigation, although he described such a move as a very unrealistic thing.

The Department of Justice is a creature of the president, he said. I know based on presidential rulings... [the] Justice Department is given a certain amount of independence. I am tremendously in favor of it, but thats all the presidents decision.

The presidents lawyer defended Trumps shifting explanations about a meeting with Russians at Trump Tower during the 2016 campaign that included his son, Donald Trump Jr. This is the reason you dont let the president testify as part of the special counsel probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 election, Giuliani told ABC. Our recollection keeps changing, or were not even asked a question and somebody makes an assumption.

He predicted that special counsel Robert Mueller would wrap up his investigation by the start of this September. Hes as sensitive as everybody to not doing another Comey and interfering horribly in the election, Giuliani said.

Giuliani tells @ThisWeekABC he still believes Mueller will wrap up probe by September 1.



"He's as sensitive as everybody to not doing another Comey and interfering horribly in the election." https://t.co/qHd6FpOTBx pic.twitter.com/RUPuPGklxC  This Week (@ThisWeekABC) June 3, 2018

He was referring to then-FBI Directors Jim Comey announcement less than two weeks before the 2016 vote that the agency was reopening aspects of its probe into Democratic candidates Hillary Clintons private use of email when she served as secretary of state. Although days later Comey said the probe was again being closed without charges being filed, Clinton has blamed his initial announcement as a key reason Trump went on to defeat her.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.WASHINGTON  Candidate Donald Trump bragged that he could shoot someone on New Yorks Fifth Avenue and not lose any support, and now President Donald Trumps lawyer says Trump could shoot the FBI director in the Oval Office and still not be prosecuted for it.

In no case can he be subpoenaed or indicted, Rudy Giuliani told HuffPost Sunday, claiming a presidents constitutional powers are that broad. I dont know how you can indict while hes in office. No matter what it is.

Giuliani said impeachment was the initial remedy for a presidents illegal behavior  even in the extreme hypothetical case of Trump having shot former FBI Director James Comey to end the Russia investigation rather than just firing him.

If he shot James Comey, hed be impeached the next day, Giuliani said. Impeach him, and then you can do whatever you want to do to him.

Norm Eisen, the White House ethics lawyer under President Barack Obama and now a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, said the silliness of Giulianis claim illustrates how mistaken Trumps lawyers are about presidential power.

A president could not be prosecuted for murder? Really? he said. It is one of many absurd positions that follow from their argument. It is self-evidently wrong.

Eisen and other legal scholars have concluded that the constitution offers no blanket protection for a president from criminal prosecution. The foundation of America is that no person is above the law, he said. A president can under extreme circumstances be indicted, but were facing extreme circumstances.

Giulianis comments came a day after The New York Times revealed that Trumps lawyers in January made their case to special counsel Robert Mueller that Trump could not possibly have obstructed justice because he has the ability to shut down any investigation at any time.

He could, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon if he so desired, Jay Sekulow and John Dowd wrote in a 20-page letter. Dowd has since left Trumps legal team, replaced by Giuliani.

Story continues

The letter also admits that Trump dictated a statement that was then released by his son, Donald Trump Jr., regarding a meeting held at Trump Tower in June 2016 between top Trump campaign officials and Russians with links to that countrys spy agencies.

That meeting was scheduled after the Russians said they had damaging information about Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton that would be of use to the Trump campaign. The Trump-dictated statement falsely claimed the meeting was primarily about the adoption of Russian children by American families  the same topic that Trump claimed had been the substance of a conversation he had had with Russian leader Vladimir Putin the previous evening in Germany.

Trump shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the their bilateral meeting at the G-20 summit in Hamburg, Germany, on July 7, 2017. (Photo: Carlos Barria / Reuters)

The U.S. intelligence community concluded during the 2016 campaign that not only was Russia interfering in the U.S. election, but was actively trying to help Trump win.

Both Sekulow and White House press secretary Sarah Sanders claimed, falsely, that Trump had not dictated the statement, but had merely offered his son suggestions. Sanders on Sunday referred questions about the matter to Trumps outside legal team.

Giuliani said Sekulow was misinformed about the Trump Tower meeting, which in any case was not that significant. In this investigation, the crimes are really silly, he said, arguing that the firing of Comey last year could not be construed as obstruction of justice because Trump had the right to fire him at any time and for any reason. This is pure harassment, engineered by the Democrats.

Comey had been leading the FBI probe into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian intelligence until his dismissal, which led to the appointment of Mueller to take it over. Within two days of the firing, Trump told both NBC News and Russian officials visiting him in the Oval Office that he had done it because of the investigation.

Eisen said Giulianis assertion, taken to its logical conclusion, would mean that a mob boss under investigation by the FBI could give Trump a bribe to fire the FBI director, Trump could explain on television that he had done so because of this Mafia thing, and then not face criminal charges.

Well, of course it would be appropriate to initiate a prosecution, he said. I think the legally correct answer is, as usual, the opposite of Giulianis answer.

Giuliani, once the mayor of New York City and prior to that the U.S. attorney there, took charge of Trumps outside legal team in April, saying then that he planned to wrap the whole thing up within a few weeks. Now he said he is not sure when it will end because Mueller is taking too long and not turning over material to Giuliani  such as a report of what was learned from an FBI informant who made contact with several members of the Trump campaign with links to Russia.

Giuliani said he has so far met with Trump about 10 times and spoken to him on the phone another 40 or so times, totaling at least 75 hours of conversation. Im not billing by the hour, otherwise I could tell you exactly, he joked about the case he has taken on for free.

Muellers investigation has so far resulted in the guilty pleas of five people, including three former Trump campaign staffers, and the indictment of 14 other people and three companies. That total includes 13 Russians, Trumps former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, and the Internet Research Agency, a troll farm that was used to create and disseminate propaganda to help Trump win.

A related investigation by Giulianis former U.S. attorneys office is examining the dealings of longtime Trump lawyer Michael Cohen. A former business partner has agreed to cooperate in that probe and plead to New York state charges.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.By Paresh Dave and Heather Somerville

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Alphabet Inc's <GOOGL.O> Google will not renew a contract to help the U.S. military analyse aerial drone imagery when it expires in March, a person familiar with the matter said on Friday, as the company moves to defuse internal uproar over the deal.

The defence program, called Project Maven, set off a revolt inside Google, as factions of employees opposed Google technology being used in warfare. The dissidents said it clashed with the company's stated principle of doing no harm and cited risks around using a nascent artificial intelligence technology in lethal situations.

Google plans to honour what is left of its contract on Project Maven, the person said. More than 4,600 employees signed a petition calling for Google to cancel the deal, with at least 13 employees resigning in recent weeks in protest at Google's involvement, according to a second person familiar with the deal.

Through Project Maven, Google provides artificial intelligence technology to the Pentagon to help humans detect and identify targets captured by drone images. Company executives have defended the contract, saying its cloud computing and data analysis tools were being used for non-offensive tasks and would help save lives.

Tech publication Gizmodo first reported that Google Cloud Chief Executive Diane Greene told employees on Friday Google's role in the program would end.

A source confirmed that, but Google declined to comment.

"I am incredibly happy about this decision, and have a deep respect for the many people who worked and risked to make it happen. Google should not be in the business of war," Meredith Whittaker, a research scientist affiliated with Google and New York University, wrote on Twitter.

More than 700 Google employees had joined an online group inside the company called Maven Conscientious Objectors, using it to vent their concerns about the project and discuss ways of protesting against it.

Story continues

Some employees planned to hold a public rally in San Francisco in July, coinciding with a Google conference, according to one source. Company officials have told employees in recent months that the deal was seen as a gateway to further, more lucrative government work, the source said.

As Google ventures into new territory, a group of nine people are working on a set of ethical guidelines for any future military contracts. The guidelines will be released, "very, very soon," Google Chief Executive Sundar Pichai said in a recording of a staff meeting last week reviewed by Reuters.

Maven had an initial budget of $70 million. Google has told employees it was getting less than $10 million for its work on the program, according to one source who requested anonymity because the information has not been made public.

Selling cloud computing services, including the object detection tool being used with drone footage, is one of the top areas Google is counting on to diversify revenue. But Amazon.com Inc <AMZN.O> and Microsoft Corp <MSFT.O> have won far more cloud business.

Google in August 2017 hosted defence executives to demonstrate its artificial intelligence capabilities, according to a document shared with Google employees and seen by Reuters.

An internal email sent in October 2017 entitled "MAVEN Kickoff Meeting Notes" quoted Deputy Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan as saying during a meeting with Google in Mountain View, California, that he wanted "a built-in AI capability" in all future Department of Defense systems deployed in the field.

The email was shared with the Maven Conscientious Objectors and Reuters viewed it on the group's online forum.

Google declined to comment on internal documents and messages seen by Reuters.

Project Maven includes several subcontractors. Pentagon spokeswoman Major Audricia Harris said in email to Reuters on Friday that the Pentagon values "all of our relationships with academic institutions and commercial companies involved with Project Maven."

The primary contractor on the project, ECS Federal, did not respond to a request to comment.

(Reporting by Paresh Dave and Heather Somerville, additional reporting by Kristina Cooke; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien and Tom Brown)Doctors have been warned to 'think really carefully' before prescribing antibiotics

GPs overprescribing antibiotics is significantly damaging the survival chances of cancer patients, leading oncologists have warned.

A major new NHS study has found that sufferers undergoing the latest cancer treatments survived for only half as long if they were also taking the common infection-fighting drugs.

Family doctors have been warned to think really carefully, before prescribing antibiotics after the analysis of more than 300 patients at the Christie Hospital in Manchester concluded the drugs were wiping out gut bacteria crucial for fighting cancer.

The warning comes amid escalating concern that the profligate use of antibiotics by doctors has fuelled the rise of lethal drug-resistant superbugs.

Researchers analysed data from 303 patients with melanoma, renal and non-small cell lung cancer being treated with immunotherapy drugs, known as checkpoint inhibitors, between 2015 and 2017.

Survival rates among patients who took antibiotics - at any stage from two weeks before their cancer treatment started, to six weeks after treatment - were compared with those of patients who took none.

The antibiotic group survived for an average of 317 days, while those who had not taken antibiotics survived for 651. Meanwhile those who had used antibiotics over a longer period or been given multiple types of the drug had an even lower survival span of just 193 days.

In numbers | Antibiotic resistance

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to patients undergoing traditional chemotherapy, as the treatment weakens the body, making it more vulnerable to bacterial infection.

However, immunotherapy, hailed as the future of cancer drugs, relies on a lively pool of bacteria in the gut to produce friendly T Cells to take on the cancer.

Dr Matthew Krebs, a consultant in experimental cancer medicine at The Christie, who co-authored the study, said: People see their GP and the GP thinks, 'Oh my goodness its a cancer patient, they need antibiotics'.

Story continues

If someone genuinely has a need, then of course we should prescribe them antibiotics.

What were saying is think really carefully about it.

Immunotherapy drugs work by prompting the bodys immune system into recognising and fighting cancer cells.

The family of treatments is currently routinely available for NHS patients suffering from forms of lung and bladder cancers and melanoma, although it is expected to become the standard treatment for many more categories of patient in the coming years.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in April even suggested that using immunotherapy before undergoing surgery to remove tumours significantly reduced the chances of the disease returning.

However, currently only around 20 per cent of patients respond to immunotherapy and The Christie researchers, funded by Cancer Research UK, began their research because they believed antibiotics may be partly responsible for the failure.

The new study, presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (Asco) meeting in Chicago, is the first large clinical analysis to show a definitive link.

Five cancer red flags to never ignore

Nadina Tinsley, clinical fellow and lead author, said the greater the number and diversity of bacteria in the gut, the more T cells there are available to take on cancers, but a course of antibiotics can suppress bacteria levels for weeks.

I think potentially its quite a big problem, she said. Clearly antibiotics are a really important part of patient management and we need to treats serious infections and prevent life-threatening infection, even death.

But the challenge is striking the right balance and making sure that we identify those patients that are at risk of having a serious infection, without giving antibiotics for less justified indications and maybe overusing antibiotics.

Dr Sumanta Pal, an Asco expert and authority on immunotherapy, described the new NHS study as the most robust to date, adding: It ties into a theme of really not using antibiotics for frivolous or non-indicated uses, he said.Baghdad (AFP) - An Iraqi court Sunday jailed a French woman for 20 years for belonging to the Islamic State group as her lawyers accused authorities in Paris of "interference" to prevent her returning to France.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country, and was set to be deported back to France.

But another court ordered the re-trial of the 27-year-old French citizen under Iraq's anti-terror law.

On Sunday she was found guilty of membership of IS and handed a life sentence -- which in Iraq is equivalent to 20 years.

"I am innocent," Boughedir told the judge in French.

"My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said.

"I am opposed to the ideology of the Islamic group and condemn the actions of my husband," she added.

Her Iraqi lawyer, Nasureddin Madlul Abd, urged the court to acquit Boughedir, describing her spouse as a "jailkeeper not a husband" who had "forced" her to join him in Iraq.

Her French defence team -- William Bourdon, Martin Pradel and Vincent Brengarth -- said they were "relieved" she had been spared the death penalty, but vowed to appeal the verdict.

In Paris, the foreign ministry said France respected sovereign Iraqi justice.

"We note that the judicial procedure is not over," the ministry told AFP.

"France will continue to respect the sovereignty of Iraqi jurisdiction and the independent judicial proceedings."

Boughedir, who wore a black dress and headscarf, arrived in the courtroom carrying her youngest daughter in her arms. Her three other children are now back in France.

Hers is the latest in a series of verdicts doled out to foreigners who flocked to join IS in its self-declared "caliphate" after the jihadist group seized the northern third of Iraq and swathes of Syria in 2014.

Story continues

On May 22, an Iraqi court sentenced Belgian jihadist Tarik Jadaoun, also known as Abu Hamza al-Beljiki, to death by hanging -- although he pleaded not guilty to a range of terror charges.

Jadaoun had earned the moniker "the new Abaaoud", after his compatriot Abdelhamid Abaaoud, one of the organisers of November 2015 attacks in Paris.

- 'Unacceptable interference' -

Even before she was sentenced, Boughedir's case sparked anger from her defence team, who had accused French authorities of interfering.

On Thursday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Boughedir was a "Daesh (IS) terrorist who fought against Iraq" and should be tried on Iraqi soil.

Her French lawyers sent a letter of protest to Le Drian, seen by AFP, in which they denounced "pressure on the Iraqi judicial system" and "unacceptable interference".

Bourdon on Sunday condemned the verdict, saying it had been influenced by "extra-judicial reasons".

During the hearing, which lasted about one hour, the judge asked Boughedir -- who was arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul -- to explain why and under what circumstances she had arrived in Iraq.

He then declared that "the proof that has been gathered is enough to condemn the criminal" to a life sentence.

Bourdon said Le Drian wanted his client to be tried in Iraq to "ensure that she won't be heading back home to France any time soon", as part of efforts to prevent the return of jihadists.

Boughedir's family and her defence team want her to face a court in France, Bourdon said.

After being sentenced in February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry, she was set to be deported home.

But upon re-examining her file, an Iraqi court said she had "knowingly" followed her husband to Iraq to join IS.

- Second Frenchwoman sentenced -

Boughedir's husband is believed to have been killed during operations by US-led coalition-backed Iraqi forces to regain control of Mosul, Iraq's second city and the jihadists' former stronghold.

On Sunday she told the court that the man she had been married to for five years had disappeared one day, walking out and saying he was going out "to look for water".

Since then, she said, she had received no information about his fate or his whereabouts.

Boughedir is the second French citizen sentenced to life in prison by an Iraqi court for belonging to IS, after Djamila Boutoutaou, 29, in April. Boutoutaou also said she had been tricked by her husband.

Thousands of foreign fighters from across the world flocked to the black banner of the jihadists after the group seized swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014.

Multiple offensives have since reduced their "caliphate" to a sliver of desert in the east of war-torn Syria.

Iraqi courts have sentenced to death more than 300 people, including dozens of foreigners, for belonging to IS, judicial sources have said.

Dozens of French citizens suspected of having joined IS are believed to be in detention in Iraq and Syria, including several minors.Baghdad (AFP) - An Iraqi court on Sunday sentenced a French woman to life in jail for membership of the Islamic State jihadist group, an AFP reporter at the courthouse said.

Melina Boughedir, a mother of four, was sentenced last February to seven months in prison for "illegal" entry into the country and was set to be deported back to France, but another court ordered her re-trial under Iraq's anti-terrorist law.

The 27-year-old was found guilty on Sunday of belonging to IS.

"I am innocent," Boughedir told the judge in French.

"My husband duped me and then threatened to leave with the children" unless she followed him to Iraq, where he planned on joining IS, she said.

On Thursday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told French news channel LCI that Boughedir was a "Daesh (IS) terrorist who fought against Iraq" and said she should be tried in Iraq.

This prompted her French lawyers to send a letter of protest to Le Drian, seen by AFP, in which they denounced "unacceptable pressure on the Iraqi judicial system" and "interference".

On Saturday, one of her lawyers, who travelled to Baghdad for the trial, William Bourdon, told AFP that Boughedir's family and her defence team want her to return to France and face a court there.

Boughedir was arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul, the capital of IS's self-declared "caliphate".

Her husband is believed to have been killed during a vast operation by US-led coalition-backed Iraqi forces to seize the country's second city back from jihadist control.

In April, an Iraqi court sentenced another French women, Djamila Boutoutaou, to life in prison for belonging to IS, despite her pleas that she too had been tricked by her husband.

Dozens of French citizens suspected of having joined IS ranks are believed to be in detention in Iraq and neighbouring Syria, including several minors.By Maayan Lubell and Nidal al-Mughrabi JERUSALEM/GAZA (Reuters) - The Israeli military said on Saturday it was investigating the apparent killing by its troops of a Palestinian nurse on Friday during protests along the Gaza border. Health officials and witnesses said Israeli forces shot dead 21-year-old Razan al-Najar, a volunteer medic, as she ran toward the border fence, east of the south Gaza city of Khan Younis, in a bid to reach a casualty. The Israeli military said Palestinian militants had attacked its troops along the border with gunfire and a grenade. In a written statement on Saturday, the military said it would investigate al-Najar's death. Thousands of people attended al-Najar's funeral in Gaza on Saturday, including some she had treated when they were wounded at previous border protests. Her body was wrapped in a Palestinian flag and carried through the streets on a stretcher by mourners. "With our souls and blood we redeem you martyr Razan," cried mourners as the body was brought to her home for a last farewell before burial. Residents said al-Najar was a popular figure at the protest sites and pictures depicting her as an angel circulated on Palestinian social media. Her death brought to 119 the number of Palestinians killed in weekly demonstrations launched on March 30 in the Gaza Strip, an enclave controlled by the Islamist group Hamas and long subject to grinding Israeli and Egyptian embargoes. The U.N. Middle East peace envoy Nickolay Mladenov said on Twitter: "Medical workers are #NotATarget!" "#Israel needs to calibrate its use of force and Hamas need to prevent incidents at the fence. Escalation only costs more lives," he added. CONDEMNATION Israel has drawn international condemnation for its use of deadly force during the mass demonstrations. It says many of those killed were Hamas members and militants trying to launch attacks under cover of the protests. The Palestinians say most of the dead and the thousands wounded were unarmed civilians against whom Israel was using excessive force. In a statement published by the Palestinian official news Agency Wafa on Friday, Health Minister Jawad Awwad condemned al-Najar's killing and said it violated international law. The Israeli military said in its statement: "The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) constantly works to draw operational lessons and reduce the number of casualties in the area of the Gaza Strip security fence. Unfortunately, the Hamas terror organization deliberately and methodically places civilians in danger." On Friday the United States, Israel's ally, vetoed a Kuwaiti-drafted U.N. Security Council resolution that condemned Israel's use of force against Palestinian civilians. Later, a second, U.S.-drafted resolution that blamed Hamas for the violence and upheld Israel's right to defend itself failed to attract any other country's support when it was put to vote in the 15-member council. The protests, dubbed the "Great March of Return" have seen thousands gather to demand the right of return to their families' lost homes or lands, now in Israel. Israel rules that out, concerned it would lose its Jewish majority. Two-thirds of the two million Palestinians in Gaza are war refugees or their descendants. (Writing by Maayan Lubell; Editing by Helen Popper amd David Stamp)Jerusalem (AFP) - Israel's Supreme Court on Sunday met in an expanded panel of nine justices to consider striking down a law on settlements so contentious that the attorney general refuses to defend it.

The law, allowing expropriation of private Palestinian land for Jewish settlers, triggered an outpouring of condemnation from around the world when it was passed by the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, in February last year.

Israeli and Palestinian rights groups, on behalf of 17 Palestinian villages, asked the court to declare the act unconstitutional and in August it issued a restraining order against implementation, pending its ruling.

On Sunday, attorney Harel Arnon, argued in defence of the legislation in place of attorney-general Avichai Mandelblit, who has warned the government the law could be unconstitutional and risked exposing Israel to international prosecution for war crimes.

Israeli public radio quoted him as saying in court that to disqualify legislation passed by parliament would be "abetting a coup against this administration."

It would be, he added, "the dismemberment of the sovereignty of the Knesset".

The act legalises dozens of wildcat outposts and thousands of settler homes in the occupied West Bank.

Its opponents see it as promoting at least partial annexation of the territory, a key demand for parts of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government.

The petition against the act, seen by AFP, argues that by giving preference to Jewish settlers over the rights of Palestinian landowners it breaches an international convention on Apartheid.

"The clear, declared purpose of the law, which seeks to privilege the interests of one group on an ethnic basis and leads to the dispossession of the Palestinians, leaves no doubt that this law involves crimes under the convention," it says.

It was not known on Sunday when the court would deliver its ruling.

International law considers all settlements to be illegal, but Israel distinguishes between those it sanctions and those it does not, dubbed outposts.

The new law allows Israel to legally seize Palestinian private land on which Israelis built outposts.

Palestinian landowners whose property was taken for settlers would be compensated with cash or given alternative plots.ABIDJAN (Reuters) - Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara said he is free to stand for a third term in the 2020 presidential election under the country's new constitution, according to an interview in this week's edition of French magazine Jeune Afrique. This is the first time Ouattara, who was first elected in a 2010 election that sparked a brief civil war, has made the claim, which will anger his political foes. "The new constitution authorizes me to serve two terms starting in 2020," Ouattara, 76, told Jeune Afrique, implying that his two election wins under the old constitution would not count against the new constitution's two-term limit. "I will only make a definitive decision then, based on the situation in Ivory Coast. Stability and peace come before all else, including my principles," he said. A government spokesman could not be immediately reached for comment. Ivorian voters overwhelmingly approved the new constitution in a November 2016 vote that was boycotted by Ouattara's main opposition. It scrapped a provision in the previous constitution requiring both of a presidential candidates' parents be natural-born Ivorian citizens, which had been used to disqualify Ouattara from a 2000 election and helped fuel regional tensions that saw the country split into two from 2002-11. Ouattara has family ties that straddle the borders with Burkina Faso and Mali. Prospective successors have been jockeying for political position ahead of the 2020 election, threatening to break apart Ouattara's governing coalition and raising fears the country could experience renewed civil conflict. The presidents of other African countries, including Rwanda and Congo Republic, have altered their constitutions in recent years to get around term limits, but Ouattara had previously promised to step down in 2020. Under Ouattara, Ivory Coast, the world's top cocoa producer, has routinely recorded some of the highest economic growth rates in Africa on the back of record cocoa production and investments in infrastructure and services. But historical divisions based on ethnicity, land and religion have not healed and a string of army mutinies and public sector strikes have taken some of the shine off the country's economic successes. (This version of the story has been refiled to remove extraneous word in paragraph two and to fix typo in paragraph eight) (Reporting By Joe Bavier; Writing by Aaron Ross. Editing by Jane Merriman)Ljubljana (AFP) - War, corruption scandals, a spell in prison -- the career of veteran Slovenian centre-right leader Janez Jansa, leading in Sunday's election, has truly seen it all.

And now, with nearly all the votes counted, his SDS party looks to have won just over 25 percent of the vote, putting him in a strong position to seek a third stint as prime minister.

But first Jansa, 59, will have to find coalition partners -- no easy task as so many of Slovenia's other parties have said they won't work with him.

His close alliance to Hungary's authoritarian prime minister and his aping of Viktor Orban's anti-immigration rhetoric stirred controversy over the course of the campaign.

"Thanks to its (migration) policy, Hungary is a safe country, while Belgium, due to its wrong policy, isn't," read a recent Jansa tweet.

Despite condemnation from other parties his campaign proved effective, particularly the way in which Jansa stirred memories of the migration crisis in Europe in late 2015 and early 2016.

And Jansa benefited from the infighting among the parties in the outgoing coalition, according to analyst Janez Markes.

"(Jansa) didn't need to do anything. Just stand there, laugh quietly and stay calm, and put his basket out to collect the votes of those fighting among themselves," Markes said in the Delo newspaper.

- 'Prince of Darkness' -

Jansa's staying power, coupled with his abrasive personality, once led former President Danilo Turk to dub him Slovenia's "Prince of Darkness".

Like his close ally Orban, Jansa's career stretches back to the pro-democracy movements that brought about the collapse of communism.

He wasn't even 30 when he first came to prominence as one of four dissidents prosecuted for their criticism of Yugoslavia's Serb-dominated army. They were eventually freed after huge demonstrations.

Named defence minister in Slovenia's first democratically-elected government in 1990, he oversaw a guerrilla strategy which ended in the retreat of Yugoslav troops in the Ten-Day War for independence.

Story continues

Forced to resign in 1994, he staged the first of many comebacks in 2004, winning his first term as prime minister just after Slovenia joined the European Union and overseeing entry to the eurozone in 2007.

- Campaigning from jail -

However, on the eve of the 2008 elections he was implicated in a bribery scandal connected to a 278 million euro ($324 million) deal with Finnish company Patria -- Slovenia's biggest defence deal ever -- and a spell in opposition beckoned.

But neither the scandal nor the fact that he came second in elections in late 2011 stopped him from embarking on a second term as prime minister a few months later.

In 2013, only a year into his second term, he was forced out by another corruption scandal and subsequently given a two-year jail sentence for a bribery conviction relating to the Patria case.

He ploughed on regardless, contesting parliamentary elections in 2014 from his cell in Dob prison near Ljubljana.

The bribery conviction was later overturned by the Constitutional Court -- it ordered a retrial, but that couldn't take place as too much time had elapsed.

Not content with his freedom, Jansa then demanded 900,000 euros ($1.04 million) in compensation from the state for having lost the 2014 elections - the case is ongoing.

Now he stands on the brink of yet another comeback, reinventing himself once again as part of Europe's growing anti-migrant populist movement.Jimmy Fallon brought some levity and laughter to a somber graduation ceremony on Sunday honoring the 2018 class of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

In a surprise speech, Fallon addressed 748 seniors, along with their families and friends during the commencement that honored four classmates who died in the Feb. 14 school shooting in Parkland, Florida. The school gave posthumous diplomas to Nicholas Dworet, Joaquin Oliver, Meadow Pollack and Carmen Schentrup. The degrees were accepted by family members.

In total, 17 students and educators were killed in the massacre.

Fallon previously joined survivors of the shooting at the March for Our Lives, the gun control rally in March that Stoneman Douglas students organized in Washington and around the country following the attack.

At the graduation ceremony, he referred to the time he spent meeting some of the students at the rally, and he thanked the whole class for their courage and bravery.

You are not just the future  you are the present, he said. Keep changing the world. Keep making us proud.

JIMMY FALLON CAME TO OUR GRADUATION DAWG WTF pic.twitter.com/7Mys8t5l6H  sid  (@sidfischer00) June 3, 2018

Jimmy Fallon at Douglas High graduation: The whole world has heard your voice.  Hal Habib (@gunnerhal) June 3, 2018

Jimmy Fallon to Douglas grads: Youre not the future. You are the present.  Hal Habib (@gunnerhal) June 3, 2018

His speech also included some lighter moments  he joked to big laughs that the graduates would no longer be classmates, but instead adults who Facebook search each other at 2 in the morning for the next 10 years.

Story continues

Congratulations Marjory Stoneman Douglas Class of 2018! You are not just the future - you are the present. Keep changing the world. Keep making us proud. #MSDStrong #YouAreThePresent pic.twitter.com/czvZwezKSt  jimmy fallon (@jimmyfallon) June 3, 2018

The Tonight Show host also gave students some words of encouragement.

Choose to move forward, he said. Dont let anything stop you.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.The bombshell 20-page letter written by Donald Trumps attorneys to special counsel Robert Mueller early this year and obtained by The New York Times Saturday includes the intriguing revelation that the president dictated the misleading statement about Donald Trump Jr.s controversial meeting with a Russian representative during the 2016 election.

Trumps eldest son met at Trump Tower in Manhattan in June 2016 with Kremlin-linked attorney Natalia Veselnitskaya, who said she could deliver damaging information on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.

After the Times reported on the Trump Tower meeting last summer, The president dictated a short but accurate response ... on behalf of his son, stated the newly obtained letter, written by Trump attorneys Jay Sekulow and John Dowd (who has since left the Trump legal team).

The presidents response stated that the meeting primarily discussed a program about the adoption of Russian children. It omitted any mention of Clinton.

Veselnitskaya did mention the Magnitsky Act, which the U.S. Congress passed as a sanction on Russian officials and led Russia, in response, to ban U.S. adoption of Russian children. But the initial focus of the meeting was Clinton, Trumps son said last year.

The presidents letter on the meeting could cause him problems if its seen as an attempt to obstruct Muellers investigation into possible Russia collusion with his campaign.

It could also cause problems for Trumps son, who testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee last September that he didnt have a clear idea who was responsible for the misleading statement about the meeting being focused on the adoption issue.

Trumps authorship of the problematic response  confirmed for the first time by his own attorneys  was an intriguing aside in the letter in which the key point was that he is essentially legally untouchable because he is the president. He cant be compelled to testify in the Mueller investigation, and has the power to shut down any Justice Department probe and pardon whomever he wants, according to the letter.

Story continues

Indeed, the President not only has unfettered statutory and Constitutional authority to terminate the FBI director, the letter states, he also has Constitutional authority to direct the Justice Department to open or close an investigation, and, of course, the power to pardon any person before, during, or after an investigation and/or conviction.

Its a position that legal experts have already attacked (check out the video above).

The real secret is how real lawyers couldve crafted such a wildly extravagant claim on behalf of any real president who insists hes no dictator and purports to love the American flag and, as our pledge puts it, the Republic for which it stands.https://t.co/oYVlz22Jyw  Laurence Tribe (@tribelaw) June 3, 2018

Trump was angry the letter was leaked.

There was No Collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country. Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media? Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2018

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story indicated the Magnitsky Act dealt with Russian adoptions. In fact, the act imposed U.S. sanctions on Russian officials, and Russia responded with a ban on U.S. adoptions of Russian children.

Also on HuffPost

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.CAIRO (Reuters) - A Lebanese tourist who posted a video on Facebook complaining of sexual harassment and conditions in Egypt has been referred to criminal trial and ordered to be detained for 15 days, Egypt's public prosecutor said on Sunday. Mona el-Mazboh has been held since Thursday when she was arrested at Cairo airport at the end of her stay in Egypt after her outspoken video went viral on social media. In the video, Mazboh complains of being sexually harassed by taxi drivers and young men in the street, as well as poor restaurant service during the holy month of Ramadan and an incident in which money was stolen from her during a previous stay. Reuters could not reach Mazboh for comment or immediately verify the authenticity of the 10-minute video, in which she calls Egypt a "son of a bitch country". She could face three to five years in prison if found guilty, according to one of the lawyers who filed a complaint against her. Referring to President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who was sworn in for a second term as president on Saturday, she says: "You deserve what Sisi is doing to you, I hope God sends you someone more oppressive than Sisi." Egyptian rights activists say they face the worst crackdown in their history under Sisi, accusing him of erasing freedoms won in the 2011 Arab Spring uprising that ended Hosni Mubarak's 30-year rule. Mazboh later posted a second video apologizing to "respectable Egyptians" for her remarks. In a statement, the public prosecutor said Mazboh was charged with "deliberately spreading false rumors that are harmful to society and infringe upon religions." In a similar incident last month, Egyptian police detained activist Amal Fathy after she posted a video on social media criticizing the government for failing to protect women against sexual harassment and over worsening living conditions. (Reporting by Haitham Ahmed and Mohamed Abdellah; Writing by Eric Knecht; editing by David Evans)Tardigrades are probably the most paradoxical animals on the planet. On the one hand, these microscopic organisms are impossibly cute, seeming like tiny blimps that bumble around harmlessly on their stubby legs. But they also enjoy a legendary reputation as the toughest, most indestructible creatures on Earth.

Just 0.04 inches (1 millimeter) long (or less), their little bodies contain biological superpowers that help them withstand conditions that would spell certain death for other organisms. Taking their toughness into account, how long can these creatures live?

That depends on where they're found. Tardigrades occur almost everywhere on the planet, but most are happiest frolicking about in moist habitats, such as the moss that adorns river stones. When tardigrades have enough food and water to support their bodily functions, they live out the natural course of their lives, rarely lasting for longer than 2.5 years, according to Animal Diversity Web , a database run by the University of Michigan. [ How Did Life Arise on Earth? ]

And yet, tardigrades can survive for much longer if they go into a state called cryptobiosis, which is triggered when environmental conditions become unbearable.

"Tardigrades are fascinating little beasties," said Sandra McInnes, a tardigrade researcher with the British Antarctic Survey, who has been studying species that occur in the frozen snowscapes of Antarctica since 1980. "Tardigrades have this ability to cope with extreme environments by shutting down their metabolism. This ability to cope with drying out or freezing is what gives them their durability in the Antarctic."

Cryptobiosis puts tardigrades into a "tun" state, slowing their metabolism to a halt, reducing their need for oxygen and ridding their cells of water almost completely, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica . In this shrunken state, tardigrades mimic death so closely that they're able to survive in places devoid of water , at temperatures as low as minus 328 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 304 degrees F (minus 200 Celsius and 151 degrees C). When these mummy-like tardigrades are exposed to water again, they simply reanimate, returning to normal life in a matter of hours.

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"So long as the tardigrade can get into the tun, it will cope with anything that you throw at it," McInnes told Live Science.

McInnes once defrosted a moss sample from a former experiment and found it contained live tardigrades. She deduced that the organisms had survived, frozen, for at least eight years. In 2016, a paper published in the journal Cryobiology made waves when it showed that a handful of tardigrades, frozen in another Antarctic moss sample back in 1983, had survived in this frigid state for 30 years until they were revived in 2014. It's thought that the tardigrade's talent for self-preservation comes down, in part, to its production of unique proteins that can lock fragile cell components into position. That protects the membranes, proteins and DNA from being shattered, pierced and torn when cells become desiccated, according to a 2017 study in the journal Molecular Cell .

But the range of risky scenarios that tardigrades can survive has left scientists puzzled by just how these little beasties pull it off. "We are literally just scratching the surface of the biochemistry, the molecular pathways by which these animals cope with these environments," McInnes said. For instance, along with being frozen, boiled and dried, it's known that tardigrades can withstand pressures of up to 87,000 pounds per square inch (600 megapascals)  six times what you'd experience at the bottom of the sea. Just half this pressure would kill most other organisms on Earth. [ What's the Oldest Living Organism? ]

Many researchers have gone to extreme lengths to test tardigrade resilience, by blasting them (in their tun state) into space. In many of these studies, the space-traveling tardigrades were exposed to direct solar radiation and gamma-rays. But when they were popped into a water-filled petri dish back on Earth, they "basically walked away and said, 'OK, where's dinner?'" McInnes said. Tardigrades are seemingly able to resist radiation and even repair their DNA, which may explain why they're so resilient to radiation's extreme effects, a 2013 PLOS ONE study reported.

"If they've got this ability to last over time, how long do they live? Well, how long is a piece of string?" McInnes said. But she cautioned against the prevailing belief that tardigrades are invincible: "They can't live forever," she said. The widely publicized notion that tardigrades can survive in a tun state for 100 years or more is an overstatement , for instance. And high-stress living does take its toll on their physiology. Only some tardigrades survive the torments of experimental freezing, boiling and radiation that we humans subject them to.

But there is another way to appreciate their resilience: on a species level. Not only have tardigrades existed since the Cambrian period 541 million years ago, but they may well go on to outlive us  and probably all other life on Earth, according to a 2017 paper published in the journal Scientific Reports . It found that if a cataclysmic event like an asteroid impact were to befall Earth and destroy life, a group of tardigrades inhabiting the ocean's Mariana Trench would endure.

As well as being impossibly cute, it would therefore seem that tardigrades are our surest hope for maintaining life on this planet.

Original article on Live Science .

Editor's RecommendationsHundreds of ancient stolen tablets, seized from the company Hobby Lobby and returned to Iraq, provide clues about what a lost 4,000-year-old city called Irisagrig was like.

Billionaire and Hobby Lobby owner Steve Green started collecting artifacts in 2009 and soon amassed a collection 40,000 strong, which he used to fill the newly created Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. However, some of those artifacts had been smuggled illegally into the U.S., and last summer, officials with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) seized thousands of looted items from his collection. Those artifacts were recently returned to Iraq. They include about 450 tablets holding cuneiform text, many of which describe Irisagrig.

"The new texts from Irisagrig cast some fascinating light on what is, indeed, quite literally a 'lost city,'" said Eckart Frahm, a professor of Near Eastern languages and civilizations at Yale University. ICE asked Frahm to assess the content and origins of the seized tablets in the fall of 2016. [In Photos: Ancient City Discovered in Iraq]

"I had only about two and a half days to study them in the warehouse where they were temporarily stored, in fairly poor lighting conditions," Frahm told Live Science in an email. "Each individual tablet was wrapped, and it took a considerable amount of time to unwrap and number them, and then rewrap them again."

Many of the tablets are fragile, "with salt incrustations covering large parts of their surfaces," Frahm said. "It seems likely that these tablets all come from the same archive, which must have fallen prey to destruction at some point in time, with the tablets falling on the ground with one side exposed [possibly] to water and the other protected."

In the end, Frahm was able to review about 250 of the cuneiform tablets. And he did find that many came from the lost city.

One of the looted tablets from Irisagrig records rations that female weavers working for the government received in the year 2037 B.C. Eckart Frahm

"Among the most exciting tablets from the lot inspected by me is a large document that records allocations of sustenance plots to royal dependents, and another that records food distributed to the 'dogs of the palace,' who were apparently well fed," Frahm said.

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Some of the tablets "record food allocations for royal envoys and other officials, and specify their missions, which include inspecting work on a canal, improving the 'royal road,'" Frahm added.

The lost city

The tablets seized from Hobby Lobby are far from the only tablets from Irisagrig that have appeared on the antiquities market in the past two decades. Live Science combed through the Cuneiform Digital Library Initiative's(CDLI) database, the Database of Neo-Sumerian Texts and numerous journal articles, and found tablets from Irisagrig that are now in collections in Texas, California, Illinois, New York, Australia, Japan, Canada, Israel, Lebanon, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Germany and France, among other places.

"In my view, it is certain that all tablets identified by scholars as coming from ancient Irisagrig have been looted," said Manuel Molina, a research professor with the Spanish National Research Council who has conducted research into Irisagrig. "The reason is simply because the only ones who know the location of Irisagrig are the looters of the site, who found it around 2003."

A few of those tablets provide geographical information that helps narrow down the location of Irisagrig, Molina wrote in a paper published in the book "From the 21st Century BC to the 21st Century AD: Proceedings of the International Conference on Neo-Sumerian Studies Held in Madrid 22-24 July 2010" (Eisenbrauns, 2013).

Molina has narrowed down the likely location to an area in southern Iraq near the modern-day town of Afak. One of the most promising candidates within this area is a "tell" (a mound formed by the debris left by its ancient inhabitants) called "site 1056" that has never been excavated by archaeologists, Molina wrote in the book. Satellite images show that the tell was heavily looted between 2003 and 2009, Molina wrote. [25 Strangest Sights on Google Earth]

This satellite image, shot on March 10, 2018, also shows site 1056. Although looting eased off after 2009, holes left by looters can still be seen. DigitalGlobe

New imagery of the site provided by DigitalGlobe suggests the looting has decreased since 2009, according to Molina, who compared the new images with his images from earlier.

But even with the new imagery, archaeologists can't be sure site 1056 is Irisagrig, said Molina, who noted that there are other possible candidates for the lost city. On-the-ground archaeological work is needed to come to any conclusions, he said.

Provenance hunt

Live Science contacted several of the identified owners (some remain anonymous) of the tablets mentioned in the databases in hopes of tracking down the looters to discover the location of the city and the motivations behind the looting. Ultimately, attempts to find the looters were unsuccessful.

Only a few of the owners responded. For instance, Jim Falk, a professor at the University of Melbourne in Australia, pointed to his website that indicates he got his tablet from Artemis Gallery in September 2015. Before that, it was held by Harlan J. Berk Ltd., which did not respond to requests for comment.

Bron Lipkin, a retired doctor and collector who owns the company Collector Antiquities, hasn't ever owned an Irisagrig tablet. But some of the owners contacted him to ask for help in deciphering the texts.

"After all this time, I don't have any easy way of working out which collector had which tablet," Lipkin said, adding that he recalls some individuals had bought the tablets on eBay and that three tablets came from an Australian dealer.

Documents from the U.S. Department of Justice said the artifacts returned to Iraq were sold to Hobby Lobby from three unnamed Israeli antiquities dealers. Live Science also found that one of the largest known private collections of tablets from Irisagrig (containing more than 100 tablets) belongs to Jawad Adra, a businessman in Lebanon. He did not respond to requests for comment.

Return controversy

There's been a debate about whether the cuneiform tablets should be returned to Iraq before they have been studied and described in scientific journals. David Owen, a professor of Near Eastern studies at Cornell University who has published descriptions of hundreds of tablets from Irisagrig, has called for them to remain in the United States for study.

"Once they enter the bowels of the Iraq Museum, it is unlikely scholars will ever have access to them, nor are there any Iraqi scholars capable of publishing them given the many thousands of unpublished texts already in storage in the museum for generations and mostly inaccessible to scholars," Owen told Live Science.

Frahm said that, while "it would have been helpful if the tablets could have been more properly documented before being sent on another trans-Atlantic journey," and that conservation work is urgently needed on the tablets, he thinks Iraqi scholars will be able to get the job done.

"I have faith in my Iraqi colleagues, who are aware of their responsibility not only to safeguard, but also to publish, the archaeological and epigraphic heritage of their country, and who have shown in recent years a laudable willingness to collaborate with scholars from other countries in an effort to do so in the best possible way," Frahm said.

Owen, on the other hand, is not at all confident that these tablets will be published after they return to Iraq. "Who knows what new data the tablets sent to Iraq contain," he told Live Science. "But we'll never see this new evidence now thanks to the stupidity of our government."

Owen Jarus can be reached at owenjarus@gmail.com.

Originally published on Live Science.

Editor's RecommendationsBy Julie Steenhuysen CHICAGO (Reuters) - An experimental cancer drug from Loxo Oncology performed even better in patients with a rare mutation of the RET gene than previously reported, according to updated results from an early stage clinical trial presented on Saturday. Last month, Loxo released preliminary data that showed its drug, LOXO-292, targeting RET mutations shrank tumors in 69 percent of advanced cancer patients regardless of whether their disease originated in the lung, pancreas or thyroid. Loxo shares rose 20 percent on the news. The new results, which included additional patients and more months of treatment, showed an overall response in 77 percent of those with RET fusion mutations who received the Loxo pill, researchers said on Saturday at the American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting in Chicago. For more coverage of the meeting, see: https://www.reuters.com/conquering-cancer The 77 percent was seen in patients whose RET gene was abnormally fused with another gene, driving cancer growth. In medullary thyroid cancer with a different type of RET mutation, LOXO-292 shrank tumors in 45 percent of patients. "The activity was pretty impressive," said Dr. Alexander Drilon, the study's lead investigator from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. "To date, there is no drug approved for RET fusions or RET mutations." Loxo attracted attention at last year's ASCO meeting with data showing that its drug larotrectinib shrank tumors in patients with more than a dozen different types of cancer all driven by a mutation known as TRK fusion. Loxo's discoveries have highlighted the value of more widespread genomic testing of tumors to find the best treatment. Both the TRK and RET mutations are rare but occur in different types of cancer. The company has since forged a partnership with Germany's Bayer and its stock price has quadrupled in value. Larotrectinib is expected to be Loxo's first drug on the market, with Wall Street analysts forecasting eventual annual sales reaching $500 million to $1 billion. Earlier this week, U.S. drug regulators said it would receive an expedited review, with an approval decision likely by late November. RET fusions occur in about 2 percent of lung cancers, 10 to 20 percent of papillary thyroid cancers, and a small number of other cancers. Activating RET point mutations account for about 60 percent of medullary thyroid cancers, which comprise 3 percent of all thyroid cancers. The Loxo study showed early evidence of lasting benefit of its drug in RET-driven cancers, with about 90 percent of patients still on therapy as of an April cut-off, with the earliest patients still responding after 10 months. Blueprint Medicines is developing a rival RET drug. Drilon, who consults on RET-targeted drugs from both companies, said it was too early to determine which is better. "These trials started a year ago. It's not reasonable to say this or that about the Blueprint versus Loxo drug," he said. (Reporting by Julie Steenhuysen; Editing by Bill Berkrot)Scientists have produced the firmest evidence yet of so-called sterile neutrinos, mysterious particles that pass through matter without interacting with it at all.

The first hints these elusive particles turned up decades ago. But after years of dedicated searches, scientists have been unable to find any other evidence for them, with many experiments contradicting those old results. These new results now leave scientists with two robust experiments that seem to demonstrate the existence of sterile neutrinos, even as other experiments continue to suggest sterile neutrinos don't exist at all.

That means there's something strange happening in the universe that is making humanity's most cutting-edge physics experiments contradict one another. [The 18 Biggest Unsolved Mysteries in Physics]

Sterile neutrinos

Back in the mid-1990s, the Liquid Scintillator Neutrino Detector (LSND), an experiment at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, found evidence of a mysterious new particle: a "sterile neutrino" that passes through matter without interacting with it. But that result couldn't be replicated; other experiments simply couldn't find any trace of the hidden particle. So the result was set aside.

Now, MiniBooNE  a follow-up experiment at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), located near Chicago  has picked up the hidden particle's scent again. A new paper posted to the preprint server arXiv offers such a compelling enough the missing neutrino to make physicists sit up and notice.

The new data from MiniBooNE confirms that this tension in the data is real. This data can (to my best knowledge) NOT be fitted with the standard framework. It requires either new particles (sterile neutrinos) or some kind of symmetry violation. 4/6  Sabine Hossenfelder (@skdh) May 31, 2018

If MiniBooNE's new results hold up, "That would be huge; that's beyond the standard model; that would require new particles ... and an all-new analytical framework," said Kate Scholberg, a particle physicist at Duke University who was not involved in the experiment.

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The Standard Model of physics has dominated scientists' understanding of the universe for more than half a century. It amounts to a list of particles that, together, go a long way toward explaining how matter and energy interact in the cosmos. Some of these particles, like quarks and electrons, are pretty easy to imagine: They're the building blocks of the atoms that make up everything we'll ever touch with our hands. Others, like the three known neutrinos, are more abstract: They're high-energy particles that stream through the universe, barely interacting with other matter. Billions of neutrinos from the sun pass through the tip of your finger every second, but they're overwhelmingly unlikely to have any impact on the particles of your body.

Electron, muon and tau neutrinos  the three known "flavors"  do interact with matter, though, through both the weak force (one of the four fundamental forces of the universe) and gravity. (Their antimatter twins sometimes interact with matter as well.) That means specialized detectors can find them, streaming down from the sun as well as from certain human sources, such as nuclear reactions. But the LSND experiment, Scholberg told Live Science, provided the first firm evidence that what humans could detect might not be the full picture.

As waves of neutrinos stream through space, they periodically "oscillate," jumping back and forth between one flavor and another, she explained. Both LSND and MiniBooNE involve firing beams of neutrinos at a detector hidden behind an insulator to block out all other radiation. (In LSND, the insulator was water; in MiniBooNE, it's a vat of oil.) And they carefully count how many neutrinos of each type strike the detector.

Both experiments have now reported more neutrino detections than The Standard Model's description of neutrino oscillation can explain the authors wrote in the paper. That suggests, they wrote, that the neutrinos are oscillating into hidden, heavier, "sterile" neutrinos that the detector can't directly detect before oscillating back into the detectable realm. The MiniBooNE result had a standard deviation measured at 4.8 sigma, just shy of the 5.0 threshold physicists look for. (A 5-sigma result has 1-in-3.5-million odds of being the result of random fluctuations in the data.) The researchers wrote that MiniBooNE and LSND combined represent a 6.1-sigma result (meaning more than one-in-500 million odds of being a fluke), though some researchers expressed a degree of skepticism about that claim.

6.1 sigma "combined" is a big statement which needs lots of detail.  Will Kinney (@WKCosmo) May 31, 2018

If LSND and MiniBooNE were the only neutrino experiments on Earth, Scholberg said, that would be the end of the matter. The Standard Model would be updated to include some sort of sterile neutrino.

But there's a problem. Other major neutrino experiments, like the underground Oscillation Project with Emulsion-Tracking Apparatus experiment in Switzerland, haven't found the anomaly that both LSND and MiniBooNE have now seen.

As recently as 2017, after the IceCube Neutrino Observatory in Antarctica failed to turn up evidence for sterile neutrinos, researchers made the case to Live Science that another reported signal of the particles  missing antineutrinos around nuclear reactors  had been a mistake, and was actually the result of bad calculations.

Sterile neutrinos weren't a rejected idea, Scholberg said, but they weren't accepted science.

The MiniBooNE result complicates the particle picture.

"There are people who doubt the result," she said, "but there's no reason to think there's anything wrong [with the experiment itself]."

It's possible, she said, that the anomaly in the LSND and MiniBooNE experiments might turn out to be the "systematics," meaning there's something about the way neutrinos are interacting with the experimental setup that scientists don't yet understand. But it's also looking more and more possible that scientists are going to have to explain why so many other experiments aren't spotting very real sterile neutrinos that are turning up in Fermilab and Los Alamos Lab. And if that's the case, they'll have to revise their entire understanding of the universe in the process.

Originally published on Live Science.

Editor's RecommendationsBamako (AFP) - Mali's government on Sunday condemned "false and slanderous" claims by the country's opposition that live ammunition was used against protesters during banned demonstrations two months ahead of a presidential election.

Twenty-five people were wounded in clashes in the capital Bamako on Saturday, a hospital source said, and the United Nations called from calm just days after Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited the West African country.

The allegations of live fire prompted a strong reaction from Prime Minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga, who said he read of the news "with indignation".

"I formally and vigorously deny this false and slanderous statement, which has no other goal than to distract the Malian people and government from the concerns of the moment, which are peace and security for transparent, fair and credible elections," he said in a statement.

His advisor Cheick Oumar Coulibaly said none of the wounded spent the night in hospital, and "no bullet wounds were recorded".

The capital's Gabriel Toure hospital said 25 people were admitted to emergency, but none were shot.

The "transparency" rally outside the party headquarters of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in Bamako attracted several hundred people on Saturday.

Police fired tear gas and beat demonstrators with batons, according to an AFP reporter at the scene. Clashes also took place in other locations.

The demonstrations came ahead of July 29 elections in which President Keita, 73, will face more than a dozen challengers.

On Sunday police officers in riot gear remained at several crossroads in the Malian capital, an AFP correspondent said.

- 'Intolerable attack' -

Opposition presidential candidate Soumaila Cisse on Sunday called for an "investigation" into the incident after his office earlier accused the prime minister's security services of firing live ammunition at protesters outside the headquarters of the Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP).

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Cisse denounced an "intolerable attack on fundamental freedoms", adding that "we absolutely must avoid an electoral crisis by establishing dialogue".

He added that the opposition would hold another protest on June 8, to call for "transparent elections" and equal access to public radio and television for campaigning.

Most protests are banned as the nation has lived under a near-constant state of emergency since an attack on a hotel in Bamako in November 2015 left 20 people dead.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who visited Mali last week, called late Saturday for "calm and restraint by all parties".

"The UN secretary-general regrets the government-imposed ban on the demonstrations by opposition parties," the UN said in a statement.

"(He) urges political actors and the civil society to favour dialogue in order to maintain an environment conducive to the holding of credible and transparent elections."

"(He) calls on the Malian government to ensure the protection of fundamental human rights and freedom of expression to peaceful demonstrations, including in the context of the ongoing state of emergency."

Mali is one of the "G5 Sahel" states -- along with Burkina Faso, Chad, Mauritania and Niger -- which have launched joint operations against jihadist groups.As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot last month, a man appearing to be a British expert on the Royal Family gave interviews to international broadcasters.

But according to US media reports, he is in fact an American from upstate New York.

Thomas J Mace-Archer-Mills Esq, the chairman of the British Monarchist Society and Foundation (BMSF), featured in the royal wedding coverage for several overseas outlets who interviewed him in the belief they were speaking to an authentic Englishman.

However, according to the Wall Street Journal, he is 38-year-old Thomas "Tommy" Muscatello - an Italian-American, who grew up in New York.

Speaking to a Norwegian broadcaster, he reportedly warned the former Suits actress that the marriage should be about "keeping integrity, keeping formality and making sure that the traditions and heritage that we have as British people remain at the forefront".

In another interview he gave to a US outlet, he reportedly told the bride-to-be not to upstage members of the Royal Family "especially when you're coming in the way you are".

Videos posted to the BMSF YouTube page document his many media appearances and his work at various monarchist conferences.

In one video filmed in St James' Park, near Buckingham Palace, he jokingly talked to a Shaun the Sheep statue, which was wearing a crown, and he said: "We have a little fun here in London, monarchy is always so stiff and proper and firm and 'how dare you make fun and have a laugh'.

"But the Royal Family and the Queen herself, they have a wicked sense of humour and so should we."

Mr Mace-Archer-Mills told the Wall Street Journal he identified more as being British than American and that he had been obsessed with the UK as a child. However, he declined to talk about his nationality.

He said he had adopted a British accent and started ending conversations by saying "God save the Queen" - despite living in Bolton Landing, New York.

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The royal enthusiast said he adopted his surname by putting together "names of friends and distant relations". He also told the paper he had an agreement with two unrelated, elderly British people to call them his grandfather and grandmother.

Mr Mace-Archer-Mills, who is editor of Crown & Country Magazine and even launched a royal-themed cryptocurrency, responded to the original article and said the Wall Street Journal "omitted truths".

"The Wall Street Journal breached journalistic trust, omitted truths and mis-sold what the initial interview was for," he said.

"Many of the facts in the article are inaccurate and the Wall Street Journal itself was given many opportunities to ensure that the article was published with the most accurate information available. The WSJ chose not to adhere to the facts or their integrity."(Reuters) - Wildfires stoked by low humidity and high temperatures raged in northern New Mexico and southern Colorado on Saturday, threatening nearly 1,900 homes and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of residents from remote communities, fire officials said. The two fires, about 250 miles (400 km) apart in the drought-parched Four Corners region of the Southwestern United States, have consumed nearly 32,000 acres (12,000 hectares)between them, officials said. The larger of the two, the so-called Ute Park Fire in Colfax County, New Mexico, was zero percent contained after scorching some 30,000 acres by Saturday evening near Cimarron, a town of about 1,100 people northeast of Santa Fe, according to a bulletin on the New Mexico Fire Information website. About 300 structures were threatened in Cimarron, where officials issued a mandatory evacuation on Friday. The town lies just northeast of the Santa Fe National Forest, which was indefinitely closed to the public on Friday in a rare measure prompted by the heightened fire risk from prolonged drought. About a dozen outbuildings went up in flames on an adjacent ranch, fire officials said. But showers were expected to bring some relief to firefighters on Sunday, though lightning strikes and erratic winds from thunderstorms could also worsen the situation. "The Village of Cimarron is STILL safe," village councilor Laura Gonzales said on Facebook. "Continue to pray for our community." The cause of the fire, which began on Thursday and has been burning through grassland and pine forest, is not known. A second wildfire started on Friday about 10 miles north of Durango, Colorado, raging across nearly 2,000 acres and forcing the evacuation of about 1,500 people near the southern border of the San Juan National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service said. Officials of La Plata County, Colorado, said they opened evacuation centers after ordering residents out of about 825 homes and issuing pre-evacuation notices for residents of another 760 homes. The Forest Service said the intensity of the Colorado wildfire, known as the 416 Fire, had slightly diminished by Saturday morning and that firefighters were focused on protecting neighborhoods and infrastructure as they managed to carve containment lines around 10 percent of the blaze. (Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee and Peter Szekely in New York; Editing by Paul Simao, Rosalba O'Brien and Edwina Gibbs)Calling the communications "inappropriate and highly prejudicial," attorney Michael Avenatti released emails that showed the previous attorney representing adult film star Stormy Daniels sent questions he received from a reporter to Trump Organization lawyer Michael Cohen.

California attorney Keith Davidson represented Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, in the confidentiality contract she signed for $130,000 in October 2016. The agreement, which Avenatti and Daniels are seeking to nullify, stipulated that the adult film star stay silent about an alleged affair she had with President Donald Trump in 2006.

"Why were Mr. Cohen and Mr. Davidson communicating in this fashion earlier this year? It was entirely inappropriate and prejudicial to my client," Avenatti commented on the documents, which he released Friday. "If Mr. Cohen had nothing to hide, then why go to these efforts to cover it up?"

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The documents appear to show that Davidson forwarded questions sent by the Associated Press and CNN to Cohen in January 2018, tipping him off on what news outlets were in the process of reporting. "FYI," Davidson emailed Cohen, attaching the CNN questions about Cohen's payment to Daniels possibly violating campaign finance lawssomething the Trump and his surrogates have repeatedly denied.

Davidson, who also represented another alleged Trump paramour in a confidentiality agreement, was still representing Daniels at the time he pushed the emails to Cohen, according to Avenatti.

It's not the first time Avenatti blasted his client's former representative for communicating with Cohen. Citing Davidson representing another alleged Trump paramour Karen McDougal, Avenatti has accused the attorney of "conspiring" with the embattled Trump attorney to silence women who had affairs with Trump. What's more, he previously filed a letter demanding that Cohen turn over "privileged and confidential communications" he alleges Cohen received from Davidson.

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"Mr. Davidson lied to them and conspired with Mr. Cohen in 2016," Avenatti said in a March 29 statement. "This is why we have demanded to see all of Davidson's docs for mos and will sue if need be."

He was more candid in an interview with CNN in early April, calling the attorney an "absolute tool."

Davidson, who could not be reached for comment, has stayed mostly mum on the subject. He said he was unable to go into detail on what occurred, although he did concede to contacting Cohen as a "professional courtesy."

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"I feel like I'm fighting with one hand tied behind my back," he added, saying that ethics barred him from speaking about the Daniels or McDougal case. "

04_18_18_AvenattiCon

Drew Angerer/Getty Images

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekRabat (AFP) - Two people were killed Sunday at an abandoned mine in a northeastern region of Morocco that has been hit by social unrest sparked by similar accidents, authorities said.

The accident happened when a shaft collapsed on the pair in the Sidi Boubker commune of Jerada province as they tried to mine lead.

"Two people, aged around 33 and 42, died on Sunday following the partial collapse of a lead gallery in Sidi Boubker," the local authorities said, quoted by Moroccan news outlets.

"The victims were extracted from inside the gallery by a group of their companions," they were quoted as saying.

"One of the victims, who was still alive, was rushed to hospital at Oujda university... but later succumbed to their injuries."

Moroccan authorities have vowed to close all abandoned mines in Jerada after months of social unrest in the former mining region.

In March, police told AFP a maximum of 300 of the mines remained open out of more than 3,200 wells in Jerada, with those abandoned presenting a "clear danger".

Jerada has seen waves of peaceful demonstrations since the deaths in December of two brothers trapped in an abandoned mine shaft, as they tried to mine coal.

Two additional deaths under similar circumstances sparked anger and indignation among residents in the economically devastated town, which official statistics rank among the poorest in the kingdom.

Protesters have demanded "economic alternatives" to "death mines", from which hundreds of miners have struggled to make a living despite their closure in the late 1990s.

Protesters have also lambasted the "coal barons", local notables who are mostly elected officials and have permits to resell coal taken from closed mines.When President Donald Trump on Thursday met with victims, families and others affected by the shooting at Santa Fe High School in Texas, which left 10 people dead and 13 wounded, at least one parent was not impressed with his demeanor, continuing a pattern of the president failing to show empathy during tragedies.

Rhonda Hart, whose daughter, Kimberly Vaughan, was among eight students who died in the shooting last month, told The Associated Press her conversation with Trump was like talking to a toddler.

According to Hart, Trump repeatedly brought up arming teachers, a policy proposal he has frequently promoted after school shootings.

Hart, an Army veteran, said she also suggested employing veterans as sentinels in schools. She said Trump responded, And arm them? She replied, No, but said Trump kept mentioning arming classroom teachers. It was like talking to a toddler, Hart said.

She said the president also focused on the shooter and his appearance, repeatedly describing him as wacky.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the meeting, which was closed to reporters.

On Thursday, deputy press secretary Hogan Gidley told reporters on Air Force One that the meeting was very impactful and a very emotional time.

I dont want to get into the private meeting as it relates to the grieving families that experienced such a horrific tragedy. But it was very impactful. It was a very emotional time, he said. Theyve suffered a great loss and a great tragedy. And out of respect for them and the grieving process, Im not going to get into the details of the meeting.

While presidents have long assumed the role of consoler-in-chief as part of their leadership duties, Trump has regularly demonstrated a lack of empathy in responding to tragedies, from school shootings to deadly storms.

After the shooting massacre at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in February, survivor Samantha Fuentes told The New York Times that Trump didnt make me feel better in the slightest and that she had never been so unimpressed by a person in my life.

Story continues

During a White House listening session after the shooting, Trump was seen holding a notecard reminding him to tell victims and families that I hear you.

Trump received backlash after being seen holding a notecard reminding him to tell shooting victims and families that "I hear you." (Photo: Chip Somodevilla via Getty Images)

Last year, while touring hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico, Trump downplayed the damage as not a real catastrophe like Katrina, told a family to have a good time, encouraged officials to praise him and the governments widely criticized response to the storm and reveled in throwing paper towels to residents at a church.

Other attendees of Thursdays meeting with Trump reported more positive interactions. John Tisdale, the brother-in-law of substitute art teacher Cynthia Tisdale, wrote in a Facebook post that her widower, William, enjoyed meeting President Trump Thursday.

Galveston County Sheriff Henry Trochesset told the Houston Chronicle that Trump got emotional while listening to survivors.

He was concerned about what was going on with them, and the families, he said. He listened to their ideas, how things could be maybe put in a place to change or prevent this from happening again.

If you have more information about Trumps meeting, email marina.fang@huffpost.com.

This story has been updated with additional details from Trumps meeting.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Lagos (AFP) - Nigerian police on Sunday summoned the head of the upper house of parliament for questioning after members of a criminal gang implicated him following a brutal bank robbery that left 33 people dead.

Senate President Bukola Saraki, the third-most powerful politician in the country who has denied the allegation, served from 2003 to 2011 as state governor of Kwara, where the brazen daylight robberies took place in the central town of Offa on April 5.

National police spokesman Jimoh Moshood said 22 suspects have been arrested over the robbery of six Offa banks, including five ring leaders who alleged Saraki's involvement in the gang.

"Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki is being invited by the Nigeria Police Force... to answer to the allegations levelled against him from the confessions of the five gang leaders," Moshood said in a statement.

He said the gang leaders confessed to be working for Saraki as "political thugs under the name Youth Liberation Movement a.k.a. 'Good Boys'."

They also "admitted and confessed to have been sponsored with firearms, money and operational vehicles by the Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki and the Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed."

Moshood said a Lexus jeep purportedly owned by Saraki and used during the robberies had been traced to the government office in Ilorin, Kwara's state capital, and two of the governor's personal aides had also been arrested.

"Investigation is ongoing and effort is being intensified to arrest other suspects still at large. All suspects involved will be arraigned in court for prosecution on completion of investigation," he added.

The embattled Saraki, who is currently facing graft charges, last month hinted at a plot by the police to implicate him in the robberies.

- 'Baseless allegation' -

In a statement on Sunday, the Senate president promised to honour the police summons, but insisted he had no link with the robbers.

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He accused the nation's number one police officer of planning to frame him and called on the public "to disregard this claim as a baseless allegation".

"Let it be known that there is no way I could have been associated with armed robbery against my people," he said.

"When the Offa robbery incident happened, I was the first top public official to pay a visit to the place and right there in the palace of the traditional ruler, I put a call through to this same Mr. Ibrahim Idris, the IGP (Inspector General of police), requesting him to make certain specific security arrangements as demanded by the people," he added.

Saraki said he was being framed because of his differences with the police boss over his shoddy handling of killings of innocent people across the country.

"This plot is concocted to embarrass me and, in the mind of the IGP, it is his own response after his refusal to honour the invitation by the National Assembly, headed me, for him to come and offer explanations on the rampant killings and violence across the country," Saraki said.

"Like the earlier one, this frame-up will also fail as I hereby state categorically that I have no link with any band of criminals."

Saraki however promised to honour the police invitation "as a person who has utmost respect for the rule of law and all constitutional institutions."

Saraki is a member of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), the party of President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.WASHINGTON (Reuters) - North Korea's top three military officials have been removed from their posts, a senior U.S. official said on Sunday, as U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un prepare to meet on June 12 in Singapore. The U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, was commenting on a report by South Korea's Yonhap news agency that all three of the North's top military officials were believed to have been replaced. Trump on Friday revived the summit after canceling it a week earlier. The United States is seeking a negotiated end to North Korea's nuclear weapons program. U.S. officials believe there was some dissension in the military about Kim's approaches to South Korea and the United States. The U.S. official did not identify the three military officials. Yonhap identified them as defense chief Pak Yong Sik; Ri Myong Su, chief of the Korean People's Army's (KPA) general staff; and Kim Jong Gak, director of the KPA's General Political Bureau. Trump wants North Korea to "denuclearize," meaning to get rid of its nuclear arsenal, in return for relief from economic sanctions. North Korea's leadership is believed to regard nuclear weapons as crucial to its survival. Citing an unnamed intelligence official, Yonhap said No Kwang Chol, first vice minister of the Ministry of People's Armed Forces, had replaced Pak Yong Sik as defense chief, while Ri Myong Su was replaced by his deputy, Ri Yong Gil. The White House, State Department, CIA and Office of the Director of National Intelligence did not immediately respond to requests for official comment. South Korea's unification and defense ministries declined to confirm the report, while an official at the Unification Ministry said the government was watching the leadership situation in the North very closely. All of the newly promoted officials are younger than their predecessors, according to Yonhap, especially Ri Yong Gil, 63, who is 21 years younger than Ri Myong Su. "This points to two things: the consolidation of Kim Jong Un's power as the sole leader of North Korea and strengthened cooperation between the North's party and military as the country works towards further economic development," said Yang Moo-jin, professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. "They're all young but capable people," Yang added. Army General Kim Su Gil's replacement of Kim Jong Gak as director of the KPA's General Political Bureau was confirmed in a North Korean state media report last month when Kim Su Gil accompanied North Korea's Kim Jong Un on a field guidance trip to a beach tourist zone with other officials. Lower-level U.S.-North Korean talks to prepare for the summit are continuing but have made only "halting progress," according to a second U.S. official briefed on the discussions. That official said U.S. negotiators' efforts to press for definitions of immediate, comprehensive, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization by North Korea had run into opposition from the White House. In a remarkable shift in tone eight days after canceling the summit, citing Pyongyang's "open hostility," Trump welcomed North Korea's former intelligence chief, Kim Yong Chol, to the White House on Friday, afterward exchanging smiles and handshakes. (This version of the story has been refiled to fix typographical error in spelling of analyst's name in paragraph 11) (Reporting by John Walcott in Washington; Additional reporting by Christine Kim in Seoul; Writing by Arshad Mohammed; Editing by Peter Cooney)Photo: Instagram courtesy Paris Hilton

Famous for nothing superstar Paris Hilton is welcoming summer in her own unique way on the island of St. Barts, posting self-portraits in extremely low-cut monokinis.

First up, the 37-year-old is standing in high heels in the sand, on what is presumably a beach, looking off into the distance. Total power pose. Her caption? A simple #BeachBae.

#BeachBae  A post shared by Paris Hilton (@parishilton) on Jun 1, 2018 at 4:47pm PDT

Next up, we get a closer shot of the bathing suit. Hilton is no stranger to headline-grabbing, and this is definitely a headline-grabbing look, down to the Gucci sunglasses.

Hilton has been in the spotlight for nearly two decades, after signing with Donald Trumps modeling agency T Management when she was 19 and starring in the reality show The Simple Life at 22.

#LifeisGood A post shared by Paris Hilton (@parishilton) on Jun 1, 2018 at 6:49pm PDT

She returned to the gram in another look, a white crocheted one-piece. She also switched up her hair and sunglasses.

Recently she spoke about her look with Phillip Picardi, chief content officer at Teen Vogue and Them, Ive never done any Botox, any filler, any plastic surgery in my life. I swear on my soul! Hilton said at the BeautyCon Festival in New York City. Instead, she revealed that shes a stickler for staying out of the sun, a piece of advice she learned from her mother, Kathy Hilton.

#LifeisBeautiful in #Paradise A post shared by Paris Hilton (@parishilton) on Jun 2, 2018 at 1:03pm PDT

Whats a perfume mogul doing in the Greater Antilles? Spending time with her family, by the looks of her Instagram stories, which show her mugging with mom Kathy and sister Nicki. Also in attendance? Real Housewife Kim Richards, Pariss aunt (sister of Kathy).

Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/Paris Hilton

Photo: Courtesy of Instagram/Paris Hilton

The family seems well schooled in Instagram filters, as expected. No word on whether old friends Kim K. or Nicole Richie will be joining the fun.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.



Photo: Instagram

For most people, high school graduation is a time of joy and celebration. But for students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., this weekends graduation was bittersweet.

In February, 17 people were killed in a school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas. As CNN reported, four of the victims  Nicholas Dworet, Joaquin Oliver, Meadow Pollack, and Carmen Schentrup  were seniors who would have been a part of the schools class of 2018.

During the graduation ceremony on Sunday, students and faculty at Marjory Stoneman Douglas honored the four lost seniors, as well as two other members of the student class whose cause of death was unrelated to the shooting, NBC News reported.

Dworets parents told NBC News that their sons friends wore his name on their graduation caps in his honor. The outlet reported that Dworet had planned to attend the University of Indianapolis on a full swimming scholarship. The grieving parents also told NBC News that their sons childhood friend and classmate Alexandra Greenwald was accepting his diploma at the graduation ceremony.

One senior, Amanda Edwards-Berlingeri, explained her mixed feelings about graduation to NBC News. It kind of hurts to graduate because youre graduating and everyone is supposed to be in on this together, and now you dont have four people that are supposed to be with you, Edwards-Berlingeri told the outlet.

And while the students are no longer living, their families have created scholarships and nonprofit organizations in their honor. The lost seniors wont get to attend college, as many of their classmates will, but their legacies will live on through the charitable programs.

Story continues

Thanks @mrjefffostermsd (My AP Gov teacher) for teaching me what a discharge petition is earlier this year pic.twitter.com/cL30cHdpHC  David Hogg (@davidhogg111) June 3, 2018

The surviving seniors also honored their fellow classmates by wearing graduation sashes that read MSD Strong at the ceremony, the Hill noted.

School shootings are unfortunately all too common in the United States. But the Parkland students have gained national attention because of their resilience and activism in the wake of tragedy. The students organized the March for Our Lives protest in March, and many Marjory Stoneman Douglas students have become outspoken proponents for gun control. Some Parkland students also honored their lost classmates at their prom.

School shootings arent something anyone should have to live through, but the Parkland students continued to inspire people across the country at their graduation ceremony.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.



As President Donald Trump participated in the coast guards change of command ceremony Friday morning, the Pentagon told Congress it estimated U.S. military action killed nearly 500 civilians last year.

But that number could be much higher, as the Department of Defense still has 450 additional reports of civilian casualties to evaluate before the final number is tallied, CNN reported. So far, the number of civilians injured due to military operations is at 169, but that number could rise as well.

Other organizations claimed that the number of civilian deaths was significantly higher. Monitoring group Airwars reported that between 3,923 and 6,102 civilians were killed by the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq and Syria alone in 2017, representing a rise of more than 200 percent on the previous year.

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The deaths reported by the Pentagon occurred in U.S. counterterrorism efforts against the Islamic State militant group, the Taliban and Al-Qaeda groups in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria and Yemen, through both ground combat operations and air strikes.

RTX5X5QC

Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

The numbers reflect a more aggressive military strategy that Trump initiated when he took office 16 months ago. According to United States Air Forces Central Command data, in 2016 there were about 31,000 air strikes in both Iraq and Syria. But as terrorist groups gained ground in major urban cities like Mosul, Iraq and Raqqa, Syria, the U.S. responded with a period of increased strikes, totaling 39,000 in 2017.

Trump also placed thousands more troops on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq, along with an indefinite military presence in Syria.

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Story continues

During his 2016 campaign, Trump often failed to outline a specific strategy he would employ for handling problems in the Middle East. But he did say that he would quickly and decisively bomb the hell out of ISIS, will rebuild our military and make it so strong no-oneand I mean no onewill mess with us.

After a recent air strike on Syria, President Trump wrote on Twitter that the attack was perfectly executed and mission accomplished.

A perfectly executed strike last night. Thank you to France and the United Kingdom for their wisdom and the power of their fine Military. Could not have had a better result. Mission Accomplished!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 14, 2018

The Department of Defense report "acknowledges that there are differences between DoD assessments and reports from other organizations." It added that "these differences result from a variety of factors," including the use of "different types of information and different methodologies to assess whether civilian casualties have occurred," according to CNN.

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But that wasn't sufficient for Amnesty International, which released a sharply worded statement in the wake of the report.

"We call on the U.S. government to meaningfully investigate all claims of civilian casualties and to be transparent about who is killed and harmed in U.S. military operations," Daphne Eviatar, director of security with human rights at Amnesty International USA, said.

This Pentagon report is the first of its kind in the wake of former President Barack Obama signing an executive order near the end of his second term requiring the Department of Defense to begin investigating the number of civilian casualties caused by military force.

Civilian casualties are a tragic and at times unavoidable consequence of the use of force in situations of armed conflict or in the exercise of a state's inherent right of self-defense, Obama stated in the order. The U.S. Government shall maintain and promote best practices that reduce the likelihood of civilian casualties, take appropriate steps when such casualties occur, and draw lessons from our operations to further enhance the protection of civilians."

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekVatican City (AFP) - Pope Francis on Sunday called for dialogue in Nicaragua, where weeks of deadly anti-government demonstrations have left more than 100 people dead.

"I am united with my brother bishops in Nicaragua and their grief over violence committed by armed groups," the pope said after leading the traditional Angelus prayer in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican.

The opposition in Nicaragua on Saturday renewed calls for President Daniel Ortega's resignation as protesters again clashed with police in the city of Masaya.

"The Church is always in favour of dialogue, but for that it requires an active commitment to respect for freedom and, above all, life," the Argentine pope said.

"I pray that all the violence will cease so that the conditions for dialogue can be restored as quickly as possible."

Ortega, 72, has dominated Nicaraguan politics since leading the Sandinista revolution that ousted dictator Anastasio Somoza in 1979.

He took over the country as head of a ruling junta and then president until 1990, then returned to power in 2007 -- and looks determined to stay there, despite the protests and the devastating loss of his once-solid support from the business elite.

The protests began over a much-hated pension reform and ballooned into a mass threat to Ortega's rule.

The embattled president denies repressing them.Sayako had been trying to conceive a second child for two years when her boss at a Japanese daycare centre suggested she stop because she had missed her "turn".

Sayako, who spoke to AFP using a pseudonym, learned her boss had an unwritten policy that experts say is not uncommon in Japan: an informal "pregnancy rota" for employees.

"Why don't you take a break, you already have one," her boss said, despite knowing Sayako was so keen to get pregnant that she was seeing a fertility specialist.

"I was so shocked and stunned that I couldn't answer," the 35-year-old told AFP.

Sayako's boss told her that an older newly-wed at her workplace now had priority when it came to having children.

She quit the job and moved to another daycare centre, recently giving birth to her second child.

If she had stayed, "I think I'd have said 'I'm sorry'" instead of celebrating the birth of the baby.

The issue of "pregnancy rotas" hit the headlines earlier this year when a man wrote about his wife's experience getting pregnant "out of turn".

In a letter to the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper, he said he and his wife had apologised to her boss at a nursery.

"How dare you break the rules without asking?" the boss had said, the husband recounted.

The letter sparked a debate about the practice, which experts say is particularly prevalent in sectors that struggle to find and retain employees, like the daycare industry.

It represents an intersection of two of Japan's most pressing social issues: a shrinking population and the struggle women face balancing a career and family.

- 'A normal practice' -

A declining birth rate has created labour shortages, but workplaces often demand long hours and overtime -- a difficult prospect for female employees in a society that often still expects women to take the lead on housework and childcare.

This leaves many women feeling forced to quit their jobs to have children or forego a family to stay employed and get promoted.

Story continues

"When you have an underlying idea that the ideal is a full-time housewife, people think women can just quit (if they get pregnant)," said Kanako Amano, a researcher at the NLI Research Institute.

"They think that if you want to cling to your job, then you should wait your turn."

"Pregnancy rotas" have become "a normal practice at workplaces that mostly employ young female workers," she told AFP.

Some women "don't realise it is unfair, and instead feel apologetic" for taking maternity leave.

Employers argue that the labour shortage makes it impossible to manage a business if employees take maternity leave whenever it suits their family.

But the result is a situation that only exacerbates Japan's shrinking population, Amano said.

"The essence of the 'pregnancy order system' -- making couples wait turns -- has lowered Japan's birthrate," she argues.

Legal experts say that forcing employees to conceive on a rota is against the law, but it has become almost "inevitable" at workplaces like nurseries and hospitals, said Naoki Sakasai, a senior official at the Tokyo-based Research Institute of Early Childhood Care and Education.

"It is on workers' minds, whether it is written or not."

And while some employers frame the policy as "fair", women told AFP the system had the effect of pressuring newly-weds or older women to "hurry up" and get pregnant.

- Discrimination -

The issue is only one of many challenges for women in the workplace in Japan, which ranks bottom of the G7 countries on female representation in politics and business.

Amano said working mothers had few role models in managerial posts and women often found themselves discriminated against after having children.

Mayu, who also spoke to AFP using a pseudonym, said "many things disappointed" her after she returned to her job as a nurse after maternity leave.

"When I asked the boss to send me to a professional programme as a step towards a future promotion, her reaction was: 'You took maternity leave and worked shorter hours. How many more favours do you want'?"

"I have been told the same thing by three bosses over the past five years," she said.

The 42-year-old mother-of-three took advantage of a Japanese law that allows parents to work shorter hours, taking a commensurate paycut to do so.

She only worked one hour less a day, but nonetheless found the decision was "a trigger that ruined the plan I had for my career".

She feared that if she complained about what she considered discrimination, she might be penalised by her superiors or transferred to a remote clinic.

Amano said a broader cultural shift was needed to boost female participation in the workplace.

"There is a phrase 'messhi boukou' in Japanese that means... killing your private life to serve," she said.

"The workstyle or culture that presents 'messhi boukou' as a touching story is the root of all these evils."Washington (AFP) - Human rights groups took to the streets in cities across the United States on Friday to protest the Trump administration's policy to separate asylum-seeking Central American immigrant children from their parents.

Hundreds of people chanted "families belong together" in front of the Justice Department in Washington, accusing the government of violating human rights and traumatizing children for political reasons.

"This is indeed an emergency -- every single day children are ripped apart from their parents and the Trump administration must immediately cease this policy," said Jessica Morales, chairwoman of We Belong Together, an immigrant advocacy group.

The protests came after President Donald Trump's administration confirmed that it had split hundreds of families who crossed the southern border without immigration documents since October.

Last month, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced an official policy of arresting and separating all parents from their children if they cross the border illegally.

The government sees the policy as a necessary deterrent to illegal immigration, but the critics say it is cruel to refugees and asylum seekers fleeing violence in Central America.

"This attorney general made a decision to separate our kids from their parents. This is immoral, it's a crime, and we are not going to accept that," said Gustavo Torres, executive director of the immigrant advocacy group CASA.

The backlash has placed Trump, who has promised to halt illegal immigration, on the defensive, ironically blaming Democrats for a policy choice his administration has made.

The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a lawsuit challenging the policy, calling it a violation of human rights.

"Separating families is more than cruel and unnecessary -- it's torture," the ACLU said.

- Surge of asylum requests -

The policy aims to stem a surge of poor families mostly from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras pouring into the United States.

Story continues

Citing the daily violence in their home countries, thousands each week cross the US-Mexico border and immediately turn themselves in to authorities asking for asylum.

They are part of a broader rebound in illegal immigration that has deeply angered Trump.

In April alone, 50,924 people were detained after crossing the border without papers, including 4,314 unaccompanied children and 9,647 family units, according to US Customs and Border Patrol.

Late last year, the Trump administration quietly began separating some illegal border crossers from their children, sending the youngsters to holding facilities for several weeks before either transferring them back to parents or to relatives already living in the United States.

From October to April, about 700 children were separated from their parents.

With illegal border crossings and asylum requests undeterred, Sessions announced last month a "zero tolerance" policy that will see every unauthorized border crosser charged with a crime even before they can request asylum.

"Today, we are here to send a message to the world: we are not going to let this country be overwhelmed... If you cross this border unlawfully, then we will prosecute you," Sessions said.

"If you are smuggling a child, then we will prosecute you and that child will be separated from you as required by law," he said, adding: "If you don't like that, then don't smuggle children over our border."

- Migrants fleeing real dangers -

The administration says the families who send or bring their children across the border are working with organized human smugglers who teach them exactly what to say to be placed into the asylum processing. That gives an incentive for people to head to the United States, they argue.

The immigrants say they are fleeing real dangers in their home countries.

In the two weeks that followed Sessions's announcement, authorities arrested 658 children together with 638 adults, US Border Patrol deputy chief of operations Richard Hudson told lawmakers last week.

The children are believed to have been taken away from their parents, but Hudson would not confirm that.

At the Washington protest, Guatemala native Exel Estrada, who came to the United States at 15 and just finished his first year in a US college, said the Trump administration is "against all immigrants."

"I too was an unaccompanied minor, I too was in a detention center," Estrada said.

"If there were policies like these four years ago, I would not be standing here today."One hundred people have been injured and a 21-year-old medical volunteer was killed during violent protests in Gaza on Friday.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health said Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) killed medical nurse 21-year-old Razan Ashraf al-Najjar, The Times of Israel reported. The young nurse was shot near Khan Yunis along the fence that separates Gaza from Israel.

Health ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra told The Times of Israel that this brings the death toll of people killed by the IDF to 123, according to a count by the ministry.

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Najjar, 21, was treating a man who had been hit with a tear gas canister when she was shot, a relative by the name of Ibrahim al-Najjar told the New York Times. He said she was just 100 yards from the border fence when she was killed and he had to carry her to an ambulance. Qudra said Najjar used to volunteer at the ministry often and was wearing the white medic uniform when she was killed.

966075118

Ashraf Amra/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

Being a medic is not only a job for a man, Its for women, too, Razan al-Najjar said during an interview at a Gaza protest camp last month, according to The New York Times.

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Since March, protesters have been demanding the right for Palestinian refugees to return to Israel after they left or were forced to leave after Israel was created in 1948. The worst of the protests came after the opening of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem on May 14 as 1,600 people were injured and 37 Palestinians were killed, marking it the bloodiest day since the war in 2014 with Israel.

Story continues

On Tuesday morning, at least 25 mortar shells were fired into the south of Israel from the Gaza strip, landing in Israeli communities, including one that exploded in the yard of a kindergarten.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekKanye Wests projects since he teamed up with his now-wife Kim Kardashian West in 2012the abrasive Yeezus, the sprawling The Life of Pablo, the series of personal appearances punctuated by top-of-the-head singleshave had varying stylistic contours. The one thing theyve consistently focused on is contrast: Light and dark, ugly and beautiful, self-aggrandizing and self-loathing.

West is perhaps uniquely qualified to grapple with this. In the public mind of 2018 he is Kanye, shorthand for an outspoken black man who says a lot of outre things in a world still struggling mightily with its racial politics, who Barack Obama has called a jackass, and whos married to a similarly polarizing figure. (Among other things.) Hes also Kanye West, rapper and producer born in Chicago, happy when hes eating ice cream. The back-and-forth between Kanye and the public can be excruciating to watch unfold in real time, particularly when it deals with topics like mental illness and opioid addiction, and even moreso when it touches even more volatile third rails like President Donald Trump. Its perhaps most disheartening when it crosses onto platforms that take the wink-and-nod approach to any subject they tackleyour TMZs, your 24-hour news networks, your drive-by Tweeters looking for an excuse to blow off steamand erase the humanity at the stars nucleus.

But West didnt reach his exalted position because he went on a reality show with no interest in making friends. He was an innovative producer who minted hits, both for himselfthe Ray Charles callback Gold Digger, the dreamy P.Y.T. flip Good Lifeand for others, like former confidante Jay-Z and pop megastars Rihanna and Paul McCartney. This year, in addition to his gossip-blog-poking appearances, he returned to music, chopping samples from the sunken place (as he said on Twitterhe apparently meant Jackson Hole, Wyoming) on albums for himself, as well as other artists in his G.O.O.D. Music stable.

Story continues

I'm hand producing all the albums I tweeted about. Been chopping samples from the sunken place ????Pusha May 25th My album June 1st me and Cudi June 8th and Teyana June 22nd and oh yeah...  KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) April 22, 2018

Ye, Wests eighth solo album and the second in this pre-summer flurry, was launched at a splashy listening party in Jackson Hole on Thursday. West collected boldfaced names and influencers in order to hear the record around a campfire. It opens in the dark; the first track is unnervingly called I Thought About Killing You, and it opens with West in monologue, his voice stretching and shifting as he talks about murder and suicide over watercolor synths. I think this is the part where Im supposed to say something good to compensate it, so it doesnt come off bad, he says, then chuckles mirthlessly before his voice is pitched to an even lower point, so as to emphasize the really, really, really bad things knocking around his brain. (Think American Psycho where the exalted business cards are flaunted on Instagram.) Those impulses recede, but linger over the rest of the record.

Sonically, Ye resembles Pablo but, perhaps appropriately given its terse title, more stripped-down, with the occasional pitch-shifted voice dropped in to add uneasiness. Ye doesnt deviate too much from the lyrical concepts of Pabloit blends the trivial and the life-or-death like on the darkened-club Yikes, where he declares his bipolar syndrome (which he calls out on the scrawled-on-iPhone-pic cover) to be his superpower and compares the U.S.-North Korea tensions to his long-simmering beef with Wiz Khalifa. Wouldnt Leave is a love song that doubles as an apology to his wife; closing track Violent Crimes, which features a shoutout to and cameo by fellow stratosphere-dweller Nicki Minaj, draws from the I respect women more now that I have daughters well thats simultaneously frustrating and a relief. But it wouldnt be a Kanye album without fundamental contradictions to the very end.Embattled comedian Roseanne Barr says she "begged" ABC to not cancel her hit television show after she was lambasted for posting a racist tweet about Valerie Jarrett, a former aide to President Obama.

In a Twitter rant Thursday that has since been deleted, the comedian said she pleaded with Disney-ABC Television Group President Ben Sherwood to spare her sitcom's celebrated revival.

"I begged Ben Sherwood at ABC 2 let me apologize & make amends," she tweeted. "I begged them not to cancel the show. I told them I was willing to do anything & asked 4 help in making things right. I'd worked doing publicity 4 them 4 free for weeks, traveling, thru bronchitis. I begged 4 ppls jobs."

The posts were the latest in a series of rants from the TV star since her series was canceled Tuesday. The decision was made following Barr's tweet that Jarrett looked like the offspring of the Muslim Brotherhood & Planet of the Apes. Jarrett, an African-American, was born in Iran to American parents.

Sherwood asked, "What were you thinking when you did this? I said: I thought she was white, she looks like my family! He scoffed & said: 'What u have done is egregious, and unforgivable,'" Barr wrote Thursday. "I begged 4 my crews jobs. Will I ever recover from this pain? omg."

She also wrote she was ashamed of what her 8-year-old African-American co-star, Jayden Rey, would think of her.

"The saddest part of all is 4 Jayden Rey on the show whom I grew 2 love so much & am so ashamed of myself that she would ever think I do not love her bc she is African American," Barr tweeted. "It's the most gawd awful painful thing. I can't let myself cave in tho."



Barr was seen in public Thursday for the first time since losing her job. She was photographed by paparazzi walking near her Salt Lake City home, smoking cigarettes and talking on her cell phone.

When asked for comment, she said, "I believe in one law for all people. I love all people. Have a nice day."

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Related Articles:Construction began on a section of President Donald Trumps border wall along the U.S. and Mexico border and will include an anti-climbing plate in one of its sections.

The new anti-climbing plate, according to FOX 4 News, will take over 14 miles of improvised border fencing and is created from scrap metal in Border Field State Park in San Diego, California. The new feature will start half a mile from the Pacific ocean and will stand between 18-30 feet tall, FOX 4 reported on Friday.

Chief of Customs and Border Patrol of San Diego, Rodney Scott, told the news station that construction of the wall and the new plate will help keep the public safe.



The construction of this new substantial wall will improve overall border security, the safety and effectiveness of Border Patrol agents, the safety of the public, and will enhance the atmosphere for business and commerce in the area, Scott said.

Trending: Star Wars: Episode IX Goes From Black Diamond to New Working Title

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David McNew/Getty Images

The Texas construction company, SLSCO, is in charge for building the San Diego part of the wall. The construction will cost an estimated $147 million, according to FOX 4. This will be the third project in San Diego County.

Ronald Vitiello, U.S. Customs and Border Protections Acting Deputy Commissioner said the beginning of the construction is an important milestone and will upgrade our existing infrastructure in San Diego.



Under this Presidents leadership, we have a renewed commitment to secure our border, Vitiello said. "The new primary wall-project represents an important milestone in our work to secure the international border. Not only does it significantly upgrade our existing infrastructure in San Diego, it also marks the third concurrent wall project in the U.S. and reflects CBPs unwavering commitment to secure our borders and protect our Nation.

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Don't miss: Rick Santorum: Obama Inflamed Racism in U.S. By Siding With People Of Color, Against Police

U.S. Customs and Border personnel are not the only ones that think construction of the wall is vital for the U.S. More than 300 sheriffs across 40 states signed a letter in March to call on to Congress to build the border between the U.S. and Mexico borders.

Without border security and immigration reform, more Americans will continue to be victims of crime. Now is the time to act, the letter from the National Sheriffs Association read.

Funding for the construction of the wall has become a problem for the Trump administration, as Mexico as has refused to pay for it. In March, Trump suggested using funding for the U.S. Military to pay for the construction, according to multiple sources from CNN.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekRIYADH (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia has temporarily released eight people accused of communicating with organizations opposed to the kingdom but is holding nine others in detention, state news agency SPA reported on Saturday. The public prosecutor said it had interrogated people arrested last month, whom human rights groups identified as women's rights activists. In a statement, the public prosecutor said the detainees had admitted to communicating and cooperating with individuals and organizations opposed to the kingdom, recruiting people to get secret information to hurt the country's interests, and offering material and emotional support to hostile elements abroad. The statement did not identify the detainees, and Reuters was unable immediately to verify their names. A total of 17 people were arrested, eight of whom have been temporarily released, comprising five women and three men, the statement said. Nine people, five men and four women, remain in detention "after sufficient evidence was made available and for their confessions of charges attributed to them". International rights watchdogs have reported the detention of at least 11 activists in the past few weeks, mostly women who previously campaigned for the right to drive and an end to the kingdom's male guardianship system, which requires women to obtain the consent of a male relative for major decisions. The United Nations called on Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to provide information about the arrested activists and ensure their legal rights were guaranteed. On Sunday, the chief of the religious police, officially known as the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, hailed the prosecutor's statement and warned against groups and individuals who "target the government's security and stability". A ban on women driving in the kingdom, set to be lifted on June 24, has been hailed as proof of a progressive trend. But the recent arrests have soured that image. The government announced two weeks ago that seven people had been arrested for suspicious contacts with foreign entities and offering financial support to "enemies overseas", and said other suspects were being sought. It did not name the detainees. Last week, Saudi Arabia released four women's rights activists, fellow activists and Amnesty International said. The terms of the release were unclear. Activists and diplomats have speculated that the new wave of arrests may be aimed at appeasing conservative elements opposed to social reforms pushed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. It may also be a message to activists not to push demands out of sync with the government's own agenda, they said. State-backed media had labeled those held as "agents of embassies", unnerving diplomats in Saudi Arabia, a key ally of the United States. Prince Mohammed has courted Western allies in a bid to open up the deeply conservative Muslim kingdom and diversify its oil-dependent economy, the region's largest. (Reporting by Sarah Dadouch, Editing by Stephen Kalin and Dale Hudson)PARIS (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia's King Salman has threatened to take military action if Qatar installs a Russian air defence system, France's Le Monde newspaper reported.

Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates severed diplomatic and economic ties with Qatar last year, accusing Doha of supporting terrorism, which it denies.

Qatar and Russia signed an agreement on military and technical cooperation last year. Qatar's ambassador to Russia was quoted as saying in January that it was in talks to buy the Russian S-400 missile air defence systems.

Le Monde said that Saudi King Salman had written a letter to French President Emmanuel Macron, expressing his profound concern over negotiations between Doha and Moscow and the possibility that Qatar could deploy the missiles.

"The kingdom would be ready to take all necessary measures to eliminate this defence system, including military action," Le Monde quoted the letter to Macron as saying. It said the letter had been sent "recently", but was not more specific.

Salman asked Macron for his assistance to prevent the sale of the missiles and preserve peace in the region, Le Monde said.

The French president's office and the Saudi government's communications office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

(Reporting by Yann Le Guernigou and Marine Pennetier in Paris and Stephen Kalin in Riyadh; Writing by Maya Nikolaeva; Editing by Peter Graff)If you thought Environmental Protection Agency chief Scott Pruitts expenditures couldnt possibly get more ridiculous, guess again.

The Washington Post on Friday reported that the EPA purchased a dozen silver fountain pens from a jewelry store in Washington, D.C., featuring the agencys seal and Pruitts signatures. The cost to taxpayers: $130 apiece.

The pens were part of a $3,230 order in August from Tiny Jewel Box that also reportedly included personalized journals.

The cost of the Qty. 12 Fountain Pens will be around $1,560.00, an account manager at the jewelry store wrote in an email to Millan Hupp, Pruitts head of scheduling and advance. All the other items total cost is around $1,670.00 which these items are in process. Please advise.

Yes, please order, Hupp responded that same day. Thank you.

EPA spokesman Jahan Wilcox defended the pen purchase in a statement to the Washington Post, saying they were made for the purpose of serving as gifts to the Administrators foreign counterparts and dignitaries upon his meeting with them.

The expense comes as Pruitt faces a whirlwind of corruption accusations and ethical scandals. While pushing for sweeping budget cuts at the federal agency, Pruitt has been seemingly loose with the taxpayers dime.

In April, a government watchdog found that Pruitt broke the law when he spent $43,000 to install a soundproof phone booth in his office. Other questionable, high-end expenses include non-commercial and first-class airfare and an unprecedented security detail. Several high-ranking officials at the agency were reassigned, demoted or opted to leave after expressing concerns about pricey office furniture, as well as requests for a bulletproof SUV, a 20-person security detail and $100,000-a-month charter aircraft membership, as The New York Times reported in April.

Pruitt has largely pointed the finger at his own staff at the agency he runs.

Im having to answer questions about decisions that others made, Pruitt said in an interview with the Washington Free Beacon this week. And thats not an excuse, its just reality.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.(MADRID)  Prime Minister-elect Pedro Sanchez vowed Friday to root out the corruption that helped bring down Spains outgoing conservative government and pledged to help people affected by years of public spending cuts under his predecessor, Mariano Rajoy.

Minutes after narrowly winning a no-confidence vote in parliament, the Socialist party leader signaled a change in tone and priorities from Rajoys unbending commitment to reducing the national debt during his more than six years as prime minister.

Sanchez, the 46-year-old head of what has been Spains main opposition party, has never held a government post.

He said he would address what he called the social emergencies of Spaniards after years of government austerity.

Im aware of the responsibility and the complex political moment of our country, Sanchez said in brief comments to reporters after the 180-169 vote in the Congress of Deputies, Spains parliament. One lawmaker abstained.

Sanchez will be sworn in Saturday at 11 a.m. (1000 GMT, 6 a.m. EDT) by King Felipe VI at the Zarzuela Palace in Madrid and will appoint his Cabinet over the coming days. His triumph was a dramatic return to the spotlight after being fired as party leader less than two years ago.

Sanchez said he intended to call elections before the end of this parliamentary term in 2020, but he didnt say when, and he probably will want to make his mark first with some headline policies before going to the polls.

A tough path lies ahead for his minority government, however. It will face a political minefield as it tries to steer legislation through parliament by winning support from rival parties. The Socialists only have 84 seats  just under a quarter of the total.

Sanchez said he would seek to build a consensus to try to weed out corruption.

He also said he wanted to transform and modernize Spain, including improving job security, fighting inequality, providing a better life for the elderly and investing in public health care.

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The former economics professor and career politician inherits a strong economy in which growth last year reached 3.1 percent. But a question remains over where he might find the money to pay for his Socialist partys ambitions.

Like the other 18 member countries of the eurozone shared currency bloc, Spain is locked into rules that keep a lid on spending and hold debt at sustainable levels. After the eurozones recent financial crisis, any easing of those rules could spook markets.

Spain is the eurozones fourth-largest economy and an influential member of the European Union. Sanchez and his party are staunch supporters of the EU and the shared currency.

Madrids stock exchange didnt appear worried by Sanchezs rise to power, however, and it closed nearly 1.8 percent up from the previous day.

The downfall of Rajoys government after nearly eight years in power came just days after his Popular Partys reputation was badly bruised by a court verdict that identified it as a beneficiary of a large kickbacks-for-contracts scheme. That ruling spelled the end of Rajoys rule, and Sanchez was keen to portray himself as a fresh start.

Rajoy shook hands with Sanchez after the result was announced, leaving the chamber while lawmakers with the anti-establishment leftist party Podemos shouted Yes, we can.

Sanchez has set himself apart from Rajoys confrontational stance with separatists in Catalonia, Spains wealthiest region, where the Catalan government is making a noisy new push for independence. Sanchez has promised to open talks with new Catalan President Quim Torra, despite having previously called the fervent secessionists comments xenophobic.Tampa (AFP) - Pluto is covered with surprising dunes made of methane ice, which have formed relatively recently despite the frigid dwarf planet's very thin atmosphere, international researchers said Thursday.

Pluto's atmosphere has a surface pressure 100,000 times lower than Earth's, which researchers suspected might be too little to allow tiny grains of solid methane to mobilize and become airborne.

Yet mild winds blowing across Pluto's surface at speeds of some 19-25 miles (30-40 kilometers) per hour have forged these ripples at the border of an ice plain and mountain range, said the report in the journal Science.

"The likely source of the dune grains is methane ice blown from nearby mountains," said the Science report. "Although nitrogen ice cannot be ruled out."

The dunes are scattered across a belt-like area some 45 miles (75 kilometers) across, and were spotted with NASA's New Horizons spacecraft when it flew by in 2015, said the report.

"When we first saw the New Horizons images, we thought instantly that these were dunes but it was really surprising because we know there is not much of an atmosphere," said co-author Jani Radebaugh, associate professor in the department of geological sciences at Brigham Young University.

"However despite being 30 times further away from the Sun as the Earth, it turns out Pluto still has Earth-like characteristics."

Other cosmic bodies that are known to have dunes -- besides Earth -- include Mars and Venus, as well as Saturn's moon Titan and the comet 67P/ Churyumov-Gerasimenko.

"We knew that every solar system body with an atmosphere and a solid rocky surface has dunes on it, but we didn't know what we'd find on Pluto," said lead author Matt Telfer, lecturer in physical geography at the University of Plymouth.

"It turns out that even though there is so little atmosphere, and the surface temperature is around -230 Celsius (-382 Fahrenheit), we still get dunes forming."

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Scientists also believe the dunes, which seem undisturbed, likely formed within the last 500,000 years, possibly much more recently.

On Earth, to form such dunes with sand requires stronger winds, said co-author Eric Parteli, lecturer in Computational Geosciences at the University of Cologne.

"The considerably lower gravity of Pluto, and the extremely low atmospheric pressure, means the winds needed to maintain sediment transport can be a hundred times lower," he said.

On Pluto, solar radiation also causes temperature gradients in the granular ice layer, which contributes to the ability of dunes to form.

"Together, we have found that these combined processes can form dunes under normal, everyday wind conditions on Pluto," Parteli said.(DICKSON, Tenn.)  Looking haggard and defeated after two days on the run from a massive manhunt, a suspect in the slaying of a deputy was arrested Friday by a single state trooper with no use of force, authorities said.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation tweeted photos of a handcuffed Steven Joshua Wiggins, grimacing as he was placed into the back seat of a law enforcement vehicle. His clothes were muddy and his jeans were ripped open.

Authorities said Wiggins was being booked into jail wearing the handcuffs of Dickson County sheriffs Sgt. Daniel Baker, who was found dead in his car on Wednesday.

The state of Tennessee will seek the death penalty against Wiggins and a woman arrested the day before on charges of first-degree premeditated murder, District Attorney General Ray Crouch Jr. announced.

Trooper Kevin Burch was driving down a road Friday morning when he saw a man near the edge of the wood line matching the description of Wiggins, who has a lengthy arrest record and tattoos on both arms, they said. He approached the suspect, who was considered armed and dangerous, with his service weapon drawn, but Wiggins was totally obedient as he was arrested, Tennessee Highway Patrol Col. Dereck Stewart said.

Wiggins was being treated for injuries that are not serious, TBI spokeswoman Susan Niland said. He will be booked after being treated for the injuries, which were not disclosed.

Baker was killed after responding to a call about a suspicious car on Wednesday, the TBI said. Baker couldnt be contacted for some time, but the deputys car was eventually tracked by GPS to a wooded area 2 or 3 miles (3 to 5 kilometers) away. The deputy was found dead inside of it.

The TBI said a video recording enabled them to identify Wiggins as the suspect. Federal, state and local authorities searched for Wiggins over two days, checking into hundreds of tips.

He was able to hide for an extended period of time, Stewart said. Its not clear where Wiggins hid or how he evaded authorities.

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Burch found Wiggins not far from where the shooting occurred. Rewards totaling $46,000 had been offered for information leading to his arrest.

Dickson County Sheriff Jeff Bledsoe said Baker, 32, was one of their best, working his way up to sergeant on patrol during 10 years with the department.

Baker, who also served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, is survived by his wife and daughter. Bledsoe said his agency lost a brother, and the community lost a hero. The sheriff broke down as he read a statement from Bakers wife thanking law enforcement and others for the manhunt.

I would like to ask our family, friends and community to help our daughter, Meredith, to always know how wonderful and amazing her father is, the statement said. His service and dedication to his country and community will always be remembered.

Wiggins had been already wanted on charges that he assaulted a woman and stole her car when he was pulled over Wednesday, according to a report from the Kingston Springs Police Department.

That woman was in the car with Wiggins when he pulled the trigger, and is now jailed on a murder charge in Bakers death, according to court documents.

The report says 38-year-old Erika Castro-Miles told police early Tuesday that Wiggins had slapped her in the face and pulled out some of her hair, then put a gun to her head and threatened to kill her if she called police. She said he then grabbed her keys and took her car without her permission.

Castro-Miles also told police Wiggins had been doing meth all night and smoking marijuana. She told police she planned to press charges, the report said.

The next day, she was sitting in the car with Wiggins when he shot the deputy, according to an affidavit filed in Dickson County court.

She fled the shooting scene Wednesday and hid under a house, the affidavit says. Now shes in the Dickson County Jail.

Both Wiggins and Castro-Miles are being held without bail, the district attorneys statement said.Newly released court documents show Joseph James DeAngelo, the recently named suspect in the decades-old Golden State Killer case, was arrested after police obtained DNA from his car door as he shopped.

DeAngelo -- suspected of 57 attacks, 13 homicides and 120 burglaries in California between 1974 and 1986 -- was inside a Hobby Lobby store on April 20, when police gathered the DNA evidence from his car door handle in the Roseville, Calif., parking lot.

According to the affidavit released on Friday, that DNA sample was linked to a sample from the 1980 Lyman and Charlene Smith double homicide.

Additional DNA samples were taken by police three days later from DeAngelos trash can located at his Citrus Heights residence, and were also linked to the Golden State Killer case, the affidavit states.

Investigators went looking for DeAngelos DNA in the Hobby Lobby parking lot after they established the 72-year-old former police officer as a suspect in the Golden State Killer case through genealogy website data.

DNA from the Golden State Killers crime scenes had been compared with that data, and investigators were able to make a familial match to someone blood-related to their suspect. Investigators then searched that matchs family tree for possible suspects in the case, which led them to DeAngelo.

See original article on Fortune.com

More from Fortune.comNairobi (AFP) - Two conjoined sisters, who became famous when they began their studies at a Tanzanian university last September, have died at the age of 21 following a long illness, the president of the east African nation announced on Sunday.

Maria and Consolata Mwakikuti, who were joined at the abdomen, become minor celebrities in Tanzania where the media had closely followed their path through high school.

Their admission to the Ruaha Catholic University in Iringa in September 2017 had marked a first in a country where disabled people are often marginalised or abandoned at birth.

They had begun a course in education with a view to becoming teachers in history, English and Swahili, when they became ill in January, notably suffering from cardiac problems.

"I am saddened by the death of twins, Maria and Consolata. When I last visited them at hospital they prayed for the nation. My condolences to their family... Rest in peace my children," President John Magufuli tweeted.

After an apparent improvement in their health, the sisters continued their treatment at a hospital near their university, where they died on Saturday.

The twins were abandoned by their mother after the death of their father, and later taken in by a Catholic mission.

In an emotional statement on state television last July, Maria urged parents not to "hide or lock up their handicapped children".

"They must know they as human beings, handicapped or not, are equal and have the same rights," she said.

At the time, the sisters, who enjoyed knitting and cooking together, thanked the teachers who helped them through high school, as well as the government who provided a vehicle to take them from their home to school each day.

"We didn't expect this day to come, it is by the grace of God that we are here today," said Consolata, the chattier of the two, on their admission to university.Skopje (AFP) - Thousands of supporters of Macedonia's rightwing opposition VMRO-DPMNE party took to the streets of the capital Skopje on Saturday to protest against plans to change their country's name, which has been at the centre of dispute with neighbouring Greece.

Zoran Zaev, prime minister of the former Yugoslav republic, said Wednesday that negotiations with Athens to resolve the 27-year-old dispute were in "the final stages".

Athens objects to the neighbouring state's constitutional name, Republic of Macedonia, because Greece has its own northern province called Macedonia, and fears it may imply territorial ambitions.

The contentious issue has stymied Macedonia's hopes of joining the European Union and NATO, as Greece can veto its membership bids.

The VMRO-DPMNE will not support any constitutional bid to change the name of the country, said Hristijan Mickoski, new leader of the opposition party.

"We are very clear on this subject," he added during the protest march.

Former prime minister and VMRO-DPMNE leader Nikola Gruevski, who governed Macedonia from 2006 to 2016, was absent from the rally after being sentenced on Wednesday to two years in jail by a Skopje court for abuse of power over the purchase of a luxury Mercedes.

Hungary's firebrand nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban sent a video message of support in which he hailed the party's "wise and courageous leaders... who won't bend under pressure from foreign powers".

Protests are also being organised for next week in northern Greece where some oppose what they see as a compromise solution being finalised between the Greek and Macedonian leaders.

The agreed new name will almost certainly contain "Macedonia", an outcome ardently opposed by many Greeks protective over their won northern province of Macedonia -- the cradle of the ancient empire of Alexander the Great.

Names in discussion have included "New Macedonia" and "Upper Macedonia".

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According to a senior Macedonian official any name change agreed with Greece would have to be ratified by parliament and then put to a referendum.

In light of Greece's objections, the country joined the United Nations in 1993 with the unwieldy name of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, or FYROM for short.

But dozens of countries including the United States and Russia have already recognised the country as "Macedonia".New report finds millions of children are without food and homes, and the prospect of escaping poverty is impossible under Trump

A school bus in Cleveland, Mississippi, where 12% of teens were not in school in 2015. Photograph: Rogelio V Solis/AP

The Trump administration must pay urgent attention to the shockingly high number of children living in poverty in the US, the United Nations special rapporteur on extreme poverty declares in a heavyweight report on the condition of America today  warning of the prospect of the American dream becoming the American illusion.

Philip Alston, who acts as the UNs watchdog on poverty and inequality around the world, spells out in blunt and unremitting terms the damage wrought by child poverty in one of the worlds richest countries. In his findings on conditions in the US, he highlights the personal suffering of millions of children who are left without food, homes and futures and warns that such deprivation is killing the American dream.

He lays out the brutal statistics:

18% of American children  some 13.3 million  were living in poverty in 2016, making up almost a third of the total poor;



more than one in five homeless people are children, including 1.3 million school students who were without a home during the academic year;



infant mortality, at 5.8 deaths per 1,000 live births, is almost 50% higher than other advanced nations;



the US ranks 25th out of 29 industrialised countries in terms of the amount it invests in young children.



This is tragic and unconscionable, to treat so many children in this way, but it is also a totally self-defeating economic policy, Alston said in an interview with the Guardian. The ramifications are clear and considerable  the US is building a future citizenry that is under-nourished, under-educated, under-stimulated, and that in turn will rebound dramatically on the society itself.

Children who grow up in poverty have very little prospect of escaping from it. That's being locked in Philip Alston

While child poverty has been a pressing problem for many years in the US, Alston warns that policies being pursued by the Trump White House are likely to make it much worse. Food stamps, known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or Snap, helped almost four million children stay out of the clutches of poverty in 2015  now Trump is proposing in his 2019 budget to cut the program by almost a third.

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Carolyn Miles, president and chief executive of Save the Children US, said the food stamp program was critical for struggling families. This is certainly not the time to be cutting these benefits in America, she said.

A new report by Save the Children on the US finds that children in America are at least twice as likely to be poor as children in Norway, Iceland, Slovenia, Ireland, Sweden and Germany. That disparity rises to more than five times as likely to be poor when compared to children in Finland and Denmark.

One of the most insidious aspects of poverty among the under-18s is how it eviscerates individuals prospects of advancement, and thus undercuts one of the main glues of American society  the almost universally shared belief in the American dream of an equal opportunity to achieve success through hard work and aspiration. Alston points out that the US has one of the lowest rates of social mobility between generations of any rich country  not least because child poverty is so prevalent.

We know children who grow up in poverty have very little prospect of escaping from it, he said. Thats being locked in, here, ensuring the American dream is rapidly becoming the American illusion.

Some of the most visceral child poverty can be found in rural areas, particularly in the midwest and deep south, paradoxically where a lot of Trump voters live. Carolyn Miles recently returned from Duncan, Mississippi, a small town of about 500 people in the heart of depressed cotton country where a stunning 80% of the children live in poverty.

This area is completely desolate, its a really rough place to live for kids. Families cant put food on the table every day. Every single child in local schools is on the federal school lunch program, many schools serve breakfast and some even dinner, she said.

Save the Children works with Mississippi children to try to improve literacy rates. They have found that by the time they start kindergarten at age four, many kids are already 18 months behind the national average educational ability.

We are trying to get these kids a shot, just to have a chance at an even playing field, she said.

The paucity of health care and other services, particularly in rural areas, forces parents into having to make painful decisions about how to allocate their meager incomes. Alston, who carried out an official UN fact-finding mission in December that took him to some of the poorest parts of the US, came across a particularly emotive dilemma.

Parents explained they had to decide between buying their child a Christmas present or saving it for essential food or shoes. There was no money to spare, and anything that was done out of the ordinary, such as buying a present, would penalize the child, he said.President Trump complained Sunday morning that the Federal Bureau of Investigation never warned him about its investigation into Paul Manafort before he joined Trumps 2016 presidential campaign team.

In a handful of tweets, Trump asked why the FBI did not tell Democrat Hillary Clinton and him about a secret investigation into Manafort after they had won their respective partys nominations. He scoffed at the Department of Justices commitment to fairness by placing justice in quotes.

As only one of two people left who could become President, why wouldnt the FBI or Department of Justice have told me that they were secretly investigating Paul Manafort (on charges that were 10 years old and had been previously dropped) during my campaign? Should have told me!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 3, 2018

Manafort, a veteran conservative political consultant, joined Trumps campaign as convention manager in March 2016 and was responsible for transitioning the campaigns activities toward the Republican National Committee in Cleveland. He was promoted to campaign manager on May 19 and resigned that August amid scrutiny into his pro-Russian work in Ukraine.

President Trump and his former campaign chairman Paul Manafort. (Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: AP, Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP)

On Sunday, Trump continued to distance himself from Manafort by pointing out that he came to his team late in the process, only stayed for a few months and had contributed to several other Republican presidential bids in the past. These included campaigns for Presidents Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, as well as Republican presidential nominee Bob Dole.

Trump insisted he should have been informed that former FBI director James Comey and the bureaus investigators  whom the president called Comey and the boys  were doing a number on Manafort. With this knowledge, he continued, Manafort would have never been hired.

.Paul Manafort came into the campaign very late and was with us for a short period of time (he represented Ronald Reagan, Bob Dole & many others over the years), but we should have been told that Comey and the boys were doing a number on him, and he wouldnt have been hired!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 3, 2018

This is a continuation of Trumps efforts to rationalize his ties to Manafort that kicked into high gear after Robert Mueller, the special counsel for the FBIs investigation into Russias interference with the U.S. presidential election, indicted him and his former business partner Rick Gates in October 2017. Despite Trumps claims to the contrary, CNN reported that U.S. intelligence officials warned Trump in August 2016 that Russia would likely try to infiltrate his campaign and interfere with the election.

Story continues

Manafort faces charges of acting as an unregistered foreign agent, conspiring to launder money and making false statements to the Justice Department about his political work in Ukraine. U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson has rejected several of Manaforts attempts to get certain charges dismissed. He had unsuccessfully filed motions challenging Muellers authority, insisting some charges amounted to double jeopardy (being charged twice for the same offense) and arguing that piling up charges could prejudice jurors against him.

Manafort, who has pleaded not guilty, is expected to stand trial in July.

Read more from Yahoo News:Trump spoke to reporters about Korea and Mexico

President Donald Trump falsely claimed the Korean War was the longest war in history. It was one of a host of inaccurate or puzzling statements he made to reporters Friday.

WHAT WAS SAID

We talked about ending the war. And you know, this war has been going on  its got to be the longest war  almost 70 years, right?

 Trump, speaking to reporters after a meeting with a North Korean envoy Friday

THE FACTS

False.

The Korean War began in 1950 and an armistice ended the fighting in 1953, but no peace treaty was officially signed. Still, Trump is wrong that the uneasy 65-year truce could constitute the longest war.

It is difficult to definitively say what was the longest war ever. Some involved a continuing fight while others were a series of conflicts with periods of peace. But no matter the parameters, there are numerous examples of wars that ran longer than the Korean War.

For example, the Hundred Years War between England and France spanned from 1337 to 1453.

The Punic Wars, from 265 B.C. to 146 B.C., lasted longer but were made up of three wars between Rome and Carthage.

Like the Korean War, several wars have been technically extended because no formal peace treaty was signed.

The Punic Wars can be said to have lasted over two millenniums, until 1985, when the mayors of Rome and Carthage agreed to an official peace treaty. And Japan and Russia have yet to sign a treaty to end World War II because of a continuing territorial dispute (although they currently are discussing a formal resolution).

Theres also the curious case of the Scilly conflict, a war between the Netherlands and Isles of Scilly in England that technically lasted more than three centuries but involved no injuries and no shots fired. A formal declaration of war went unheeded until 1986, when a peace treaty was signed.

South Korea, North Korea and the United States are discussing a peace treaty to formally end the Korean War.

WHAT WAS SAID

Dont forget, this was a meeting where a letter was given to me by Kim Jong Un, and that letter was a very nice letter. Oh, would you like to see what was in that letter? Would you like it?

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 Trump to reporters, at 2:43 p.m.

THE FACTS

This is contradicted eight minutes later.

I havent seen the letter yet. I purposely didnt open the letter. I havent opened it. I didnt open it in front of the director.

 Trump to reporters, at 2:51 p.m.

Trump is referring to a letter from Kim, the North Korean leader, that his envoy delivered to the president at the White House. It was not immediately known what the letter said, and Trump shed no clarity on its contents.

An hour later, an unnamed White House official told Reuters correspondent Steve Holland that Trump had read the letter  but did not specify whether that was before or after his comments to reporters.

WHAT WAS SAID

Mexico is making over $100 billion a year and theyre not helping us with our border because they have strong laws and we have horrible laws. We have horrible border laws.

 Trump, nearing the end of his 15-minute remarks to reporters.

THE FACTS

This requires context.

The presidents claim would have been more accurate a decade ago, when unauthorised immigration was a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. But in 2008, Mexican lawmakers decriminalised illegal immigration, which is now considered a minor offence.

Under US law, a first-time violation of illegally entering the United States can be punished by fines of up to hundreds of dollars or a jail sentence of up to six months.

The two countries have similar laws and protocols for inspection and documentation at their respective ports of entry. But Mexico is much weaker in enforcing its border laws, said Rey Koslowski, a professor at the University at Albany who specialises in international migration.

To say that somehow or another that Mexico is stronger and better equipped, Koslowski said, is laughable.

The United States also detains and deports more people than Mexico. Thats partly because of its larger population of unauthorised immigrants but also because of aggressive enforcement  which Trump has previously lauded.

OTHER CLAIMS

Trump also overstated the United States trade deficit with Mexico as over $100 billion a year (it was $69 billion last year); falsely claimed the United States loses many, many billions of dollars with Canada (it has a trade surplus); and said the 3.8 per cent unemployment rate was the lowest in 50 years (it was also 3.8 per cent in 2000).Rudy Giuliani said Mr Trump's legal team was 'leaning toward not' agreeing to an interview with special counsel Robert Mueller: REUTERS/Joshua Roberts

Donald Trump could pardon himself over allegations of collusion with Russia if he wanted to, his lawyer Rudy Giuliani has said.

In a round of TV interviews, the former New York mayor also detailed how the president's legal team would likely fight any summons to testify before special counsel Robert Mueller's probe into obstruction of justice.

We will say hey. You got everything you need...what do you need us for? Mr Giuliani said during an interview on ABCs This Week.

His remarks came after the New York Times detailed a memorandum from Mr Trumps legal team arguing against Mr Muellers team compelling Mr Trump to testify - foreshadowing a potential historic clash as Mr Mueller seeks to determine whether the president hindered the probe into Russian election interference and links to the Trump campaign.

A paramount question for the presidents lawyers is whether Mr Trump will sit for an interview - and, if he were to refuse, whether Mr Mueller has the legal power to compel his testimony by issuing a grand jury subpoena.

While Mr Giuliani stopped short of saying the president categorically could not be subpoenaed, he said Mr Trumps attorneys are leaning towards not allowing the president to be interviewed - overriding Mr Trump's desire to set the record straight.

He believes hes innocent, Mr Giuliani said. He believes if he gets the chance to explain it people will understand: no collusion with the Russians, no obstruction of justice.

Mr Giuliani rejected the memorandums explosive contention that a president cannot be investigated for obstruction of justice and can halt a legal inquiry at any time, saying I would not go that far. In a separate appearance on Meet the Press, the presidents counsel acknowledged the political peril if Mr Trump were to try and dissolve Mr Mueller's inquiry.

It could lead to impeachment - if he terminated an investigation of himself, it could lead to all sorts of [outcomes], Mr Giuliani said.

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Similarly, while Mr Giuliani affirmed that Mr Trump probably does have the power to pardon himself - wielding a tool he has repeatedly used on his political allies - he said it would not happen.

The president of the United States pardoning himself would just be unthinkable, Mr Giuliani said, and it would lead to probably an immediate impeachment.

Mr Giuliani continued to resist the argument that Mr Trump had sought to undercut the Russia probe by urging former FBI director James Comey to ease off former Trump adviser Michael Flynn - who has since pleaded guilty to lying about his contacts with Russia - and subsequently firing Mr Comey. Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein has since assumed responsibility for overseeing Mr Muellers probe.

Firing an employee when you know that another employees going to come in and take that job and further the investigation cannot possibly obstruct the investigation, Mr Giuliani said.

As Mr Muellers inquiry into the presidents actions has reached a crescendo, Mr Giuliani has made a series of statements about the limits of Mr Muellers power to investigate a sitting president.

Last month, Mr Giuliani said he had been made to understand that Mr Muellers team would adhere to longstanding legal precedent saying a president cannot be indicted. The Justice Department has not publicly confirmed that Mr Mueller has reached that conclusion.Washington (AFP) - President Donald Trump suggested Friday the United States might pursue separate free trade agreements with Canada and Mexico to replace the 24-year-old three-nation NAFTA pact.

The announcement came as Ottawa and Mexico City announced they were retaliating against steep metal tariffs imposed Friday and Washington faced a barrage of complaints at a finance ministers summit in Canada.

"To be honest with you, I wouldn't mind seeing NAFTA where you'd go by a different name where you make a separate deal with Canada and a separate deal with Mexico," Trump told reporters.

"You're talking about a very different two countries."

Negotiators from the three North American partners have failed to reach an agreement to modernize the North American Free Trade Agreement, which Trump again called "a terrible deal."

Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau said that Washington's decision to impose the tariffs -- Canada provides half of all US aluminum imports -- had lessened the chances for a successful outcome of the NAFTA talks.

Morneau said the US tariffs had also weakened the prospects for successful negotiations to overhaul the North American Free Trade Agreement.

"Certainly, these actions taken on these tariffs are not ones that are conducive to a positive dialogue," he told reporters as a meeting of Group of Seven finance ministers got underway in British Columbia.

"It's a negative for Canadians. We as a job have to defend Canadians. It puts us in a position where we're defending first principles, which is Canadians' rights to a strong and healthy economy for their families."

US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Thursday that Washington would not extend tariff exemptions for Mexico and Canada because the current NAFTA talks were "taking longer than we had hoped."

There is "no precise date" to reach an outcome, he added.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had also said Thursday that US Vice President Mike Pence had insisted on including a "sunset" privision -- which would require the trade pact's renewal in five years -- as a precondition for a meeting to handle out final details.

Canadian officials and much of US industry consider this a poison pill and Trudeau said no meeting occurred as a result.Washington (AFP) - A lawyer for Donald Trump said Sunday that the president "probably" had the power to pardon himself from any charges stemming from the probe into Russian meddling, while adding that the chances were dimming of the president agreeing to an interview with the special counsel leading the inquiry.

Former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, a recent addition to the Trump legal team, told ABC's "This Week" that a president "probably does" have the power to pardon himself, even while he insisted that Trump had no intention of doing so.

"I think the political ramifications of that would be tough," Giuliani added. "Pardoning other people is one thing. Pardoning yourself is another."

But the very notion sparked sharp dissent, including from a fellow Republican and sometime Trump adviser, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie.

"Listen, there's no way that'll happen," Christie told ABC.

"The reason it won't is because then it becomes a political problem ... If the president were to pardon himself, he'll get impeached."

Video: Watch Rudy Giuliani's Full Interview on 'This Week'

House Republican Majority leader Kevin McCarthy also told CNN that no president should pardon himself.

And Preet Bharara, who like Giuliani is a former New York prosecutor, agreed.

Bharara, who was appointed by former president Barack Obama, told CNN that for a president to pardon himself would be "outrageous."

It would amount, he added, to "almost self-executing impeachment."

- Raised eyebrows -

The talk of self-pardoning has raised eyebrows amid the roiling debate over the Russia meddling inquiry and the president's cooperation -- or lack of it. Trump has issued a series of ever-sharper tweets attacking the Mueller probe as politically motivated and insisting there was "no collusion" between his campaign team and Russia.

Story continues

The debate over a self-pardon has been further fueled as Trump has issued -- or hinted at -- a series of pardons to political allies, and done so in a way Democrats say is meant to signal his present and former aides that they need not fear resisting the Mueller probe.

Meantime, Giuliani has said before that the president's lawyers oppose Trump sitting down for an interview with Mueller. The president's lawyers fear an interview could lead to Trump inadvertently, and they say innocently, committing perjury.

Video: Giuliani Claims President Can Terminate Investigation

While saying on Sunday that Trump wanted to sit down with Mueller, Giuliani added, "It's beginning to get resolved in favor of not doing it."

His comment suggested that Trump's lawyers were beginning to persuade the president of the dangers involved.

Asked about a January memo from Trump's legal team to Mueller -- which conceded, after multiple White House denials, that the president himself had dictated a misleading letter last July about a meeting involving his son Donald and a Russian lawyer -- Giuliani said, "That is why you don't let the president testify. Our recollection keeps changing" and sometimes needs to be corrected.

That memo, first reported by the New York Times, also asserted that a president has full power over Justice Department investigations and therefore cannot be charged with obstruction of justice.

Giuliani was asked on ABC whether a president accused of a crime as serious as murder or bribery could terminate the investigation.

"I would not go that far," he said.President Donald Trumps lawyers, in a newly reported confidential letter hand-delivered to Russia probe special counsel Robert Mueller, tried to keep Trump from testifying by arguing that it is not possible for him to have committed obstruction of justice and that he could he could be unfairly exposed to accusations if he answers questions.

The memo, with a letterhead in Comic Sans font, is dated January 29 and was obtained by The New York Times on Saturday.

It remains our position that the Presidents actions here, by virtue of his position as the chief law enforcement officer, could neither constitutionally nor legally constitute obstruction because that would amount to him obstructing himself, and that he could, if he wished, terminate the inquiry, or even exercise his power to pardon if he so desired, Trumps lawyers John Dowd and Jay Sekulow wrote.

Trending: Who Is Munroe Bergdorf? Azealia Banks Slams 'Kanye Kardashian,' Says West Should Date Amber Rose Again

Trumps lawyers in the 20-page letter wrote that the president can fire the FBI director at any timeas acknowledged by former FBI Director James Comey, whom Trump firedand that No President has ever faced charges of obstruction merely for exercising his constitutional authority.

The most sweeping assertion that Dowd and Sekulow make in the memo, according to the Times, is the broad view of Trumps constitutional powers.

Even assuming, arguendo, that the President did order the termination of an investigation (and the President, along with Mr. Comey in his testimony and in his actions, have made it clear that he did not) this could not constitute obstruction of justice, they claim.

Don't miss: How Will LeBron James and Cavs Respond to the J.R. Smith Play in Game 2 of NBA Finals?

Dowd and Sekulow expressed concern that Trump could be exposed to accusations by investigators of lying or committing a crime or an impeachable offense. They have been trying to sway Mueller away from seeking a subpoena to force Trump to testify before a grand jury.

Story continues

The president on Saturday afternoon addressed the letter directly on Twitter.

There was No Collusion with Russia (except by the Democrats). When will this very expensive Witch Hunt Hoax ever end? So bad for our Country. Is the Special Counsel/Justice Department leaking my lawyers letters to the Fake News Media?" Trump tweeted. "Should be looking at Dems corruption instead?

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekThe US president speaks during a Change of Command ceremony in Washington, DC on Friday: AFP/Getty

The Trump administrations declaration of a trade war with friends and foes alike should not have come as a total surprise. The unpredictability and instability created by this presidency has long become a source of concern and is resulting in new international alliances being formed and old adversaries coming together in a changing geopolitical landscape.

US President Donald Trumps abrupt announcement on slapping steel and aluminium tariffs on the European Union, Canada and Mexico as well as China came after messages from Washington that the Western allies may get exemptions and the confrontation with Beijing was winding down.

The contradictions and confusion are due both to deep divisions between the presidents economic advisors and the frequency with which he himself has been changing his mind.

A classic example of this has been Treasury secretary Steven Mnunchin saying that the punitive measures against China had been put on hold only for Mr Trumps trade advisor, Peter Navarro, to dismiss the statement as an unfortunate sound bite.

The president refused to take any action over the undermining of a senior member of his cabinet by Mr Navarro just as nothing was done after reports that members of the American team negotiating with Beijing were found to be shouting at each other in the corridor outside.

The first retaliatory shots on this commercial conflict are being fired with the European Union issuing a list of US products to face tariffs, from Harley Davidsons to peanut butter.

Canada is planning to impose duties of up to 25 per cent on $13bn (9.7bn) worth of American goods including steel, yoghurt and whiskey and Mexico focusing on steel, pork, fruit and cheese from the US.

Amid rising alarm and stock markets crashing, Mr Trump holds that trade wars are good.

Some countries are not keen to wait around to find out where all this ends, and are instead taking precautionary steps.

China and India, engaged in decades of acrimony, have seen a hurried bolstering of relations.

Story continues

Iran, with Trump reneging on the nuclear agreement and threatening a new raft of sanctions, has turned to Russia and China for trade and security.

Mexico is seeking allies in Latin America to counter the re-emergence of US bullying.

The European Unions decision to hit back is another sign that plummeting relations with Washington are unlikely to get better as long Mr Trump is in the White House.

One of the most significant developments was the summit in Wuhan, Chairman Maos old summer retreat, between Xi Jinping of China and Indias Narendra Modi coming not long after their countries troops were involved in a standoff at the disputed border area of Doklam.

Beijing may be the primary target of US tariffs, but there have been vocal threats from Washington of swingeing duties on Indian goods as well.

Both China and India have benefited greatly from globalisation with technological and social progress intrinsically linked to the strides being made economically.

The GDPs of the two countries will exceed those of the G7 nations in the next two decades and has led to increased rivalry between the worlds two most populous nations.

But they are being drawn together by deepening apprehension that Mr Trumps actions will have a cataclysmic effect.

It is ironic that India is being pushed towards China by Washington after years of efforts by successive American administrations to turn Delhi into a strategic ally against Beijing through a raft of economic, political and military initiatives.

The US only recently succeeded in getting India to become part of a revamped quadrilateral alliance with America, Japan and Australia to combat Chinese hegemony in the region.

Mr Trump has often spoken of the special relationship he has quickly forged with Mr Modi, with the Indian prime minister becoming the first foreign leader to have a working dinner at the White House during the current administration.

But Japans Shinzo Abe was also said to have had such a special relationship  that did not stop the US president from accepting bilateral talks with Kim Jong-un against the position of Tokyo and, indeed, of previous US administrations, that the North Korean regime must give specific undertakings before such a meeting is held.

Iran is another subject of confrontation between the US and its allies. The other signatories to the nuclear deal  Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China  have repeatedly stated that it is working, as does the UN.

Strategies are being discussed on how to counter the Trump administration threat to penalise companies which continue to trade with Iran.

But Washington seems to think that the European states will be cowed into backing down. John Bolton, Trumps new national security advisor, has asserted Europeans will see that its in their interests to come along with us. As the American sanctions kick in  it will have an even broader effect.

We have yet to see whether the European nations admit defeat on this. But there are other economic powers who have important trade with Iran.

The country is third biggest supplier of oil to Indias booming economy while China is the biggest importer of Iranian oil. Both Beijing and Delhi have said they will continue buying oil as have other major consumers, South Korea and Japan.

China is on its way to becoming a major beneficiary of Americas Iran policy, with the strong possibility that it will take over the $5bn contract for the South Pars gas fields with the French multinational, Total, likely to pull out because of the threat of US fines.

Tehran is now looking towards Russia and China: the Moscow-led Eurasian Economic Union has signed a deal with Iran to lower tariffs on hundreds of goods and becoming part of a free-trade zone.

Mr Trumps trade war, and the salvo on steel and aluminium, is cheered on by his hardline supporters and advisors. But the leadership of his party is deeply alarmed, as are senior conservative analysts and experts.

House speaker Paul Ryan, the most influential Republican in Congress, wanted to stress that it targets Americas allies when we should be working with them to address the unfair trading practice of countries like China.

Douglas Holtz-Eakin, head of the conservative American Action Forum, commented that This begins and ends at the top, the president is behind it all. He intends to be tactically unpredictable and thinks its a fantastic negotiating approach.

But they are on a course which has failure written all over it. What you end up doing is confusing people, doing incalculable damage to relationships with allies and shooting yourself in the foot on the economy when regulatory and tax reform are doing so well.

For Dan Ikerson of the free-market Cato Institute: On steel and aluminium, we are talking about taxing users that are more significant to the economy in terms of jobs and growth than are the producers of steel and aluminium.

Everything that this administration is doing on trade threatens progress in other areas. Trump is playing with fire and he doesnt quite get it. And I think we are about to go over the cliff.

Other nations are also only too aware of the gathering storm. And, while they can, they are trying to ensure that they are not dragged to the cliff edge by this extraordinary and dangerous presidency.Led by cities, states and businesses, subnational actors are making real progress to limit greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. (Photo: lovelyday12 via Getty Images)

One year ago, when President Donald Trump announced that the United States would withdraw from the Paris climate agreement, we joined Nicaragua and Syria as the only countries on Earth to reject that landmark global climate convention. Many around the world believed that America had turned its back on solving the climate challenge, and our announcement raised fears that other countries would follow.

Instead, Nicaragua and Syria have since joined the agreement. A host of bilateral initiatives blossomed between countries including China and France. Not a single other country withdrew. And perhaps most importantly, the decision catapulted a new generation of U.S. institutions into the vanguard of Americas climate movement. Led by cities, states and businesses, these new subnational actors are making real progress to limit greenhouse gas emissions.

As the president and CEO of World Wildlife Fund, I am increasingly asked by people I know and trust within the environmental and business communities whether these subnational actors can make a difference at the scale we need. After all, air pollution doesnt stop at state borders, and for every business willing to set a climate target, others may refuse to do so without regulatory pressure.

Theres truth in this critique. Theres no substitute for federal regulation in creating consistent policies across all 50 states and market responses  not to mention providing a foundation for collaboration with other governments. But with the federal government absent on climate policy for the near future, cities, states and businesses are essential for us to maintain progress. Weve seen evidence that such efforts can begin to shift markets and, we hope, influence the political calculus around nationwide climate action.

Markets respond to government regulations. And, to a lesser extent, markets respond to the signals sent by big companies. Today, over 100 companies have science-based climate targets (plans for carbon reductions sufficient to meet the Paris agreements goals). Three hundred companies have signed formal letters of intent to set these ambitious targets, and an additional 800 have reported that they will do so in the next two years.

Story continues

One reason science-based targets matter is that companies set goals not just within their own operations, responding to established guidelines, they also set goals for the source of raw materials, or supply chains, for their operations. Supply chains are often responsible for far more emissions than a companys direct operations. Walmart, for example, committed to prevent a gigaton (1 billion tons) of greenhouse gas emissions from its supply chain and catalyzed corresponding commitments from over 400 companies that provide the goods they sell. Since making this commitment, Walmart suppliers have achieved more than 20 million metric tons of avoided emissions.

To implement their goals, companies are turning to collaborative platforms where they can learn from each other, connect with the best new ideas and partner on implementation. For example, the Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance includes companies such as Google and Mars Inc., and nongovernmental organizations such as World Wildlife Fund and the World Resources Institute. It represents 74 companies with 67 million megawatt hours of energy demand and over $7 trillion in market capitalization working together to clean up the American electricity grid.

And companies are just one piece of the subnational puzzle. Since Trumps Paris announcement, hundreds of U.S. mayors, governors and university presidents joined over 1,700 companies to establish We Are Still In, a coalition of subnational actors committed to helping the U.S. achieve its Paris climate goals.

The political leaders who have joined this movement are already reaping benefits. The three most popular governors in the U.S. are Republican governors participating in the U.S. Climate Alliance.

Thanks in part to the efforts of subnational actors, U.S. emissions continued to trend downward in 2017, dropping by 25 million tons. And we can expect even bigger results in the years ahead. A report issued last year by the United Nations Environment Program estimates that subnational actors could contribute a potentially significant contribution of a few gigatons in emission reductions by 2030.

Still, its clear the U.S. federal government needs to eventually re-engage to fully close the emissions gap.

Its not hard to imagine a moment in the future when Congress or a new administration seeks to implement a new national climate policy that prices carbon emissions and creates a market for solutions. Instead of starting from scratch on legislation, they will inherit a country filled with programs, policies and results from more than a dozen states, hundreds of cities and thousands of businesses. The subnational climate movement will have created the political and practical conditions necessary for broad, bipartisan federal action.

We know this can work because weve seen it before. History holds countless examples of hard-won progress in city councils, state legislatures and corporate boardrooms that ultimately informed new national policy. Millions of activists fighting for equal rights paved the road to national marriage equality, but cities, states and companies provided much-needed help along the way. In 1984, Berkeley, California, passed the nations first domestic partnership law. In 1992, Levi Strauss & Co. became the first Fortune 500 company to provide domestic partner benefits to employees. And in 2003, Massachusetts produced a groundbreaking court decision legalizing same-sex marriage.

We need to keep building momentum in the climate fight to achieve similar success. And you can help. Take a look at We Are Still Ins list of signatories. If you dont see your city or state signed up, reach out to your elected officials and ask them to join this movement or submit a climate action contribution. Universities, tribes, faith groups, businesses and other institutions can do the same. The more commitments this movement receives, the stronger it will be.

In a complex world, we make the best of imperfect circumstances  both political and economic. This means finding other ways to make short-term progress and lay the foundation for the solutions we seek. The most resounding outcome to Trumps announcement last year is that the world responded by turning in the opposite direction to solve climate change and build the economies of the future. Lets hope it wont be too long before our own federal government does the same.

Carter Roberts is the president and CEO of World Wildlife Fund.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.American officials are in initial talks with Russian representatives in a bid to arrange a summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, The Wall Street Journal reported late Friday.

Jon Huntsman, U.S. ambassador to Russia, has been in Washington to help work out details for such a meeting, a senior administration official told The Journal.

This has been an ongoing project of ambassador Huntsman, stretching back months, of getting a formal meeting between Putin and Trump, the official said.

Trump and Putin have already met face-to-face, twice, but on the sidelines of larger international meetings last year  during the Group of 20 summit in Germany last summer and at a November summit in Vietnam.

The two nations have a number of conflicts to discuss, including Syria, Ukraine, and U.S. intelligence findings that the Kremlin interfered via social media in a bid to influence the presidential election. That would be a particularly sticky topic for Trump because special counsel Robert Mueller is investigating claims his campaign possibly colluded with Russian individuals.

Of course there are discussions of the political perception of such a meeting between Trump and Putin, another administration source told The Journal.

Trump invited Putin to Washington in a controversial March phone call to Putin congratulating him on winning a presidential election widely seen as rife with corruption, including harsh crackdowns on rivals and dissidents. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) blasted Trump at the time, saying: An American president does not lead the Free World, by congratulating dictators on winning sham elections.

On the call, Putin and Trump discussed a meeting in the not-too-distant future, Trump later told reporters in the Oval Office, The New York Times reported.

Trump widely lauded Putin during his campaign, calling the former KGB spy a better leader than former President Barack Obama, and expressing a desire to improve relations with the Kremlin. Trumps often puzzling praise of Putin has raised concerns about the relationship between the two men. In July 2016 just months before the election, Trump publicly challenged Russia to uncover emails Hillary Clinton kept on her personal server while she was secretary of state.

Story continues

Putin has denied interfering in the U.S. election. Trump told reporters on Air Force One after meeting with Putin in Vietnam: He said he didnt meddle. I really believe that when he tells me that, he means it. I think hes very insulted by it, if you want to know the truth.

Former presidents Obama and George W. Bush held summits with Putin within six months of taking office, The Journal noted.

Also on HuffPost

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Whistler (Canada) (AFP) - Group of Seven finance ministers ended their annual meeting Saturday with US allies united in condemning Washington's aggressive protectionism, calling on President Donald Trump to reverse his decision to impose punishing metal tariffs.

The lack of common ground meant the dispute would continue into next week's G7 summit in Quebec, Canada, where Trump is expected to face other heads of state as the global economy verges on outright trade conflict.

At this snow-capped mountain resort north of Vancouver, British Columbia, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was the odd man out.

Major trading partners rebuked Trump's multi-front trade offensive while their governments announced countermeasures and legal challenges.

One after another, finance ministers and central bankers spoke of exasperation and an abiding sense of betrayal by a longtime ally.

Mnuchin, however, downplayed the disagreements and said the United States was committed to the G7 process.

Announcing the meeting's close, Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau said the host government and five others had urged Mnuchin to relay their "unanimous concern and disappointment."

"We said that we were collectively hoping that he would bring the message back of regret and disappointment at the American actions and concern that they are not constructive," said Morneau.

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire also expressed France's outrage as the meetings ended.

"I want to make it clear," Le Maire said, "that it is up to the US administration to make the right decisions to alleviate the situation and ease the difficulties."

Avoiding trade war "will depend on the decision the (US) administration is ready to take in the next few days and in the next few hours -- I'm not talking about weeks ahead," he added.

German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz told reporters the US tariffs were "a very severe problem" for transatlantic relations.

Story continues

"No one understands that due to security reasons there should be extra tariffs on steel and aluminum," he said.

Trump's tariffs on America's largest foreign providers of the crucial metals that went into effect Friday upended the agenda for this normally convivial event for consensus-building among countries that account for about half of global GDP.

No joint final statement emerged from the G7 ministerial meeting, a sign of the strong discord now at the heart of the global economy.

How the White House would deal with this remained unclear.

As the ministers' meet ended, Trump was as bellicose as ever, taking to Twitter to denounce "stupid trade" in which he said the US saw foreign tariffs on its exports without responding in kind.

"When you're almost 800 Billion Dollars a year down on Trade, you can't lose a Trade War! The US has been ripped off by other countries for years on Trade, time to get smart!" he wrote.

Counting trade in both goods and services, the US trade deficit was $566 billion in 2017, a 12 percent increase marking its highest level since the 2008 Great Recession.

- Getting an earful from allies -

Chairing a meeting on Friday, Morneau allowed participants to register grievances with Mnuchin one at a time, according to a Canadian source.

Behind closed doors, sources briefed on the talks said Mnuchin listened but spoke little, saying instead the discussion could continue at next week's G7 summit in the French-speaking province of Quebec at which Trump is expected to participate.

Mnuchin said he had informed Trump of his discussions but that trade was only one of many issues on a full agenda.

"These are our most important allies or some of our most important allies. We've had long-standing relationships with all these countries that are very important across all different aspects," Mnuchin told reporters.

"I believe there was a comment out there that this was the G6 plus one. It was not. This was the G7. We believe in the G7."

The week's whirlwind global developments in trade suggested a quick de-escalation was unlikely.

Trump has suggested the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement might be scrapped in favor of seeking bilateral agreements with Canada and Mexico.

G7 governments were also digesting Trump's threats to impose tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars in US auto imports on purported national security grounds.

In China, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross was conducting trade talks with Chinese officials even as Washington finalizes planned sanctions on Beijing.

Potential measures include restrictions on Chinese investment in the United States, new export controls and 25 percent tariffs on about $50 billion in tech-sector goods.

The talks come despite the Trump administration's apparent announcement last month of a truce with Beijing following talks in Washington last month.

China has threatened to hit back with tit-for-tat tariffs on tens of billions of dollars in US goods -- as have Canadian, EU and Mexican authorities.Whistler (Canada) (AFP) - US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Saturday reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the Group of Seven advanced economies, downplaying the discord that upended the agenda for talks at a ministerial meeting this week.

Mnuchin's remarks came moments after Canadian, German and French ministers denounced US President Donald Trump's decision to impose punishing steel and aluminum tariffs this week, describing frustration with a perceived attack on longstanding allies.

"These are our most important allies or some of our most important allies. We've had long-standing relationships with all these countries that are very important across all different aspects," Mnuchin told reporters at the meeting's close.

"I believe there was a comment out there that this was the G6 plus one. It was not. This was the G7. We believe in the G7."

Normally a forum for consensus building among countries accounting for half the world's GDP, the meetings in the crisp mountain air at this Canadian resort north of Vancouver were electrified with discontent.

Successive central bankers and finance ministers spoke of betrayal and astonishment, describing the metals tariffs as "unjustified," "unacceptable," "dangerous" and a "gun to the head."

Amid the disagreements, there was no final joint statement, but Canadian Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced that the meeting had ended amid "unanimous concern and disappointment," which all other participants asked Mnuchin to convey back to Washington.

Mnuchin said however that trade was only of many subjects on the agenda, including crypto-currencies, taxation, Iranian nuclear sanctions and the forthcoming summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

"We have important security and foreign policy relationships and although again there were discussions on trade, there were many, many areas that not only we agree on, we were completely united on," he said.(Photo: Sean Gallup via Getty Images)

When Fareed Zakaria announced via Twitter on Thursday night, CNN Exclusive  A Fareed Zakaria Special: The Steve Bannon Interview, the hype machine went into full gear. CNN began teasing excerpts of the interview, to air the following night in primetime for an entire hour, promising Bannons perspective on everything from Donald Trump to Robert Mueller to the midterm elections.

My first thought was, This must be one explosive interview. Why else would CNN devote an entire hour to an interview with someone who has been in exile abroad since his very public break with both the president and Breitbart News in January? Would Bannon turn on Trump? Would he renew his crusade against the Washington political establishment? Did he have a new venture to announce that would thrust him back into the center of the national political conversation?

I watched the interview from the CNN bureau in Washington. I had been booked to appear on CNN Tonight with Don Lemon after the Bannon interview aired to give reaction and analysis. The more I watched, the more agitated I became. This wasnt an interview, it was an infomercial.

Bannon declared that the president of the United States is also the countrys chief law enforcement officer and should consider firing Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. He praised Trump as great, and while he respectfully disagreed with the president on his treatment of Attorney General Jeff Sessions, he heaped effusive praise on his former boss approach to trade and immigration. Bannon even suggested that Trump would shut down the government in the fall over funding for the border wall.

One thing was clear, Bannon wasnt going to break with Trump. This interview had one purpose for an audience of one. Its an obvious strategy. Trump hate-watches CNN but also craves acceptance from the mainstream media. Trumps entire decision-making process often seems solely based on what he watches on television. Trump believes there are not enough voices on cable TV defending him. Steve Bannon appears on fake news CNN, knowing Trump is watching, and offers a spirited defense of his presidency, all the while hoping the appearance helps him return to Trumps good graces.

Story continues

It makes a lot of sense if youre Steve Bannon. It makes zero sense for CNN.

The entire time Im watching this infomercial, Im wondering, Why the hell is CNN giving Steve Bannon an hour to try and rehabilitate his relationship with Donald Trump? It makes even less sense than repeatedly inviting Kellyanne Conway on air to give blatantly misleading or meaningless explanations of administration policy (most of us call them lies). The reality is, reporters and producers play a tangible role in elevating and empowering different voices to shape the national discourse in this country. How the media chooses to wield that power is incredibly consequential.

If there is a path for Bannon to return to prominence and influence, it runs through the media. Past experience and the ascension of Donald Trump makes Bannon believe the media will do his work for him. He doesnt believe that any reporter or booking producer would ever turn down a quote or interview opportunity with him.

I always felt that the worst thing you could do to Steve Bannon and Donald Trump is to not talk about them. To not give them additional oxygen to fuel their venom. Silence is their true fear. For all the bluster about fake news and media bias, Bannon and Trump would be nothing without them. Now Bannon is relying on the media to try and give him yet another lease on life. The only question is, will the media be a willing accomplice to Bannons rehabilitation effort?

If what we saw on CNN Friday night is any indication, the answer is clearly a resounding yes.

Kurt Bardella is a HuffPost columnist. He is a former spokesman and senior adviser for former House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), Rep. Brian Bilbray (R-Calif.) and Breitbart News. Follow him on Twitter: @kurtbardella

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman has had enough of the Palestinian leadership. In the past 40 years, the Palestinian leadership has repeatedly missed opportunities and rejected all proposals, he said during a meeting with several leaders of Jewish organizations in late March. Its time the Palestinians accept the proposals or shut up and stop complaining.

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This isnt the first time Saudi officials have harshly criticized the Palestinian leadership for consistently missing historic opportunities to solve the conflict, but up until now they have kept it behind closed doors.

Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. The Saudis have often criticized the Palestinian leadership for missing historic opportunities to solve the conflict (Photo: AFP)

The ties between Riyadh and Jerusalem are perceived by some of the Saudi public as a betrayal of the Palestinian interest and serve as a weapon in the hands of the regimes opponents. The royal family in Riyadh is required, therefore, to prove that it isnt selling out the Palestinian struggle to advance a normalization with Israel.

The Palestinian issue has never been a top priority in Saudi Arabia, but it has served and still serves as a restraining and limiting factor in the Saudi regimes attitude towards Israel.

Over the years, there have been historical crossroads in which shared interests were formed between Israel and Saudi Arabia, but they failed to develop into a dramatic change in the status of the relations due to the Saudi regimes fear of profound criticism in the Arab world that would sabotage its public image and religious status as the protector of Islams holy sites.

Key player in changing regional balance of power

Recently, however, as the Iranian enemy and the Islamic State (ISIS) grew stronger, Israel turned from an enemy into a potential ally in the Saudis eyes. Not only do the two countries share an identical perception as to the need to eradicate radical elements and stabilize the Middle East, but Israel is the only country in the world with the intentions and military ability to act against the joint enemies.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas with Saudi King Salman. The royal family in Riyadh is required to prove that it isnt selling the Palestinian struggle to advance a normalization with Israel (: AP)

Over the years, Saudi Arabia has largely relied on its strategic alliance with the United States, but the American administrations willingness to get involved in the Middle Easts bloody conflicts has dropped in recent years, and Saudi Arabia has basically been left without any support for its attempts to efficiently curb the Iranian influence. Under these circumstances, Israel has become a key player in changing the regional balance of power.

In addition to its intelligence and strategic abilities, Saudi Arabia sees Israel as as an economic role model. As the Saudi economy undergoes a real revolution from an economy relying on oil to a productive and advanced economy, the Israeli knowledge and technology are becoming more and more attractive.

The potential hidden in Israeli-Saudi normalization is huge. While the relations arent symmetrical on the strategic level, in light of Israels clear military advantage, this does not lessen their importance. Saudi Arabias strategic location and seniority in the Arab world could help Israel improve the fighting against Iran and deepen its security cooperation with other Arab countries. At the same time, Israel is concerned about the advanced arms deals between Saudi Arabia and the US and the possibility of a Saudi nuclear weapon being developed in response to an Iranian nuclear weapon.

Saudi pressure on PA

On the diplomatic level, Israeli-Saudi cooperation could help moderate and soften explosive events, like Temple Mount riots. In addition, it would pave the way to advance economic, energy and agricultural projects between Israel and Arab states, which hardly exist in the current reality.

A first cinema in Saudi Arabia. The conservative kingdom is undergoing a major reform (Photo: AP)

The Saudi palace is already pressuring the Palestinian Authority to moderate its demands from Israel. Unlike in the past, Saudi Arabia has withdrawn its demand for a just solution to the Palestinian problem and is now talking about a logical solution. The Saudis, for example, no longer support the Palestinian demand for a right of return; rather, they are pursuing a solution that Israel would find acceptable too.

Furthermore, Riyadh isnt stipulating that the Israeli-Arab conflict must be solved before Saudi Arabias relations with Israel are normalized, but is settling for a breakthrough in the negotiations. As far as Saudi Arabia is concerned, if Israel makes gestures that convey to the Arab world that theres something to talk about, like freezing settlement construction and lifting the siege on Gaza (even partially), it would be possible to reward Israel by increasing the Saudi gestures, in addition to the ones that have been made so far.

On the economic level, if the regime in Riyadh removes the economic barriers and allows the integration of Israeli components and workforce into the Saudi economy, it would have a huge contribution to the Israeli economy, especially if other Arab countries open their gates to Israeli products.

Saudi Arabia and Israel are interested in normalizing their relations. Thats indisputable. But despite the mutual desire, there is still a long and winding road to normalization. In the current reality, Saudi Arabia could perhaps drag the Palestinian leadership to the negotiating table, but it cant force the Palestinians to sign a document waiving its historical demands from Israel. Israel, for its part, isnt showing any willingness to comply with the Saudis basic demands either. In the current coalition composition, Israeli gestures towards the Palestinians are perceived as a deviation from the governments ideological stand. Such gestures, therefore, are nowhere on the horizon.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Saudi Arabia would be able to seek the Israeli intelligences help in dealing with Iran and its proxies in the Middle East (Photo: Tal Shahar)

The way things look now, the Israeli and Palestinian leaderships are unable to bridge the differences of opinion between them, despite American and Western pressures, which makes the chances of a Saudi-Israeli normalization unclear. Despite the recent dramatic change in the Saudi discourse concerning Israel, its unlikely that the conditions have matured for the Saudi leadership to jump over the Palestinian hurdle on its way to normalization with the Zionist enemy.

Israel should do whatever it can to avoid missing the unique window of opportunity that has been opened in its relations with Saudi Arabia. Opportunities are a deluding and passing thing in the Middle Eastern arena, and the similar interests between Israel and Saudi Arabia could fade away if the current circumstances change.

The Israeli governments most important mission is to restore its credibility in the Saudi regimes eyes. Normalization with Saudi Arabia wont be given for free. It has a price. The question is whether Israel is willing to pay that price. The worst thing an Israeli prime minister could do is give the Saudis the feeling that he is willing to make concessions, and then back out of his statement. Saudi Arabia has experienced many disappointments with the Israeli leadership. It mustnt happen again.

Dr. Michal Yaari is an expert on Saudi foreign policy at Tel Aviv University and the Open University and a thinktank member at

MitvimThe Israeli Institute for Regional Foreign Policies

.

This article is based on a research paper about Israel-Saudi relations written as part of the Mitvim Institutes project on Israels relations with Arab states: The unfulfilled potential.A Palestinian suspect was detained Sunday morning while crossing the Gaza border fence into Israel.

The Palestinian, who was unarmed, was taken in for questioning.

Over the weekend, an IDF force detained two suspects approaching the Mitzpe Yishai neighborhood in the West Bank. An investigaton revealed the suspects had hidden weapons, bullets and knives in the vicinity of Mitzpe Yishai.The Israel Air Force attacked five terror targets in Hamas' naval force post in the northern Gaza Strip early Sunday morning, in response to rockets fired at Israel on Saturday night.

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The Iron Dome air defense system intercepted three out of four rockets fired from Gaza. Code Red sirens sounded in the city of Sderot and in the Lakhish, Hof Ashkelon, Sha'ar Hanegev, Sdot Negev and Eshkol regional council on Saturday night.

IDF strike in Gaza, Saturday night (Photo: AFP)

Throughout the night, the IAF bombed 10 targets in the Gaza Strip in three Hamas compounds, including two weapon production and storage sites and one of the terror organization's military compounds, in response to rockets and mortar shells fired at Israel on Saturday evening. Code Red sirens sounded during the strikes and the Iron Dome intercepted one rocket fired at Israel.

IDF strikes in Gaza and rocket interceptions (Video: IDF Spokesperson's Unit, Nir Leichter, Uri Peretz) (:  ",  ,   )

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The first siren on Saturday night sounded in Sderot and several nearby communities at 12:39 am. The Iron Dome system intercepted rockets fired from the strip. Thirty-eight minutes later, the siren sounded in the same communities once again following additional rocket fire, and the Iron Dome intercepted another rocket.

About 90 minutes later, Code Red sirens sounded in the Lakhish, Sha'ar Hanegev and Hof Ashkelon regional council, and another rocket was intercepted. About half an hour later, at 3:15 am, a siren sounded in the Sdot Negev and Sha'ar Hanegev regional council. The IDF Spokesperson's Unit said the army had detected another rocket fired from the strip.

Rocket intercepted in Sderot, Saturday night (Photo: Nir Leichter)

The IDF Spokesperson's Unit said Saturday night's attack was carried out in response to the rocket fire and terror incidents led and facilitated by Hamas over the weekend, including attempted border infiltrations, hurling grenades and explosive devices, damage caused to security infrastructures and incendiary kites and balloons that started fires in several spots on Israeli territory.

Another interception (Photo: Uri Peretz)

The IDF Spokesperson's Unit added in its statement that "the weekend's events are a continuation of repeated attempts led by the Hamas terror organization to turn the fence area above and under the ground into a fighting zone, to carry out terror attacks, to vandalize security infrastructure and to put the lives of Israel's citizens and IDF soldiers at risk. The IDF is taking these ongoing attempts very seriously, is determined to continue to implement the defense missions and defend Israel's citizens and is prepared to implement this mission as long as it takes."

IDF strike in Gaza (Photo: IDF Spokperson's Unit)

The IDF stressed that Hamas was solely responsible for the situation in the Gaza Strip. "If its choice to keep following the path of terror instead of solving the Gaza residents' distress, it will keep paying a heavy price that will grow as long as it takes," the army said in its statement.

Meanwhile, the Palestinians released images showing parts of an Iron Dome interceptor that they said had fallen on a house in the Gaza Strip.

Palestinians say parts of rocket interceptor landed on house in Gaza

On Saturday night, the IAF attacked Hamas military posts in Khan Yunis and Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Saturday night, according to Palestinian reports, hours after two mortar shells were fired at Israel.

The Iron Dome missile-defense system intercepted one of the mortars shell fired from the Gaza Strip, while another mortar shell apparently landed inside the Gaza Strip.

The mortar fire was preceded by Code Red rocket-alert sirens, which were sounded three times in the Eshkol Regional Council at around 7:50pm.

The mortars were the first since Hamas declared Wednesday a ceasefire has been reached with Israel.

Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad fired 28 projectiles at Israeli communities near the Gaza border on Tuesday morning, with at least two hiting inside the communities, one outside a kindergarten.

Also Saturday, four air tankers and 12 firefighting teams battled a massive blaze that broke out in the Karmia Nature Reserve on Saturday afternoon because of an incendiary kite flown from Gaza.

According to initial estimates, between 2,000-3,000 dunams of the reserve and its surrounding area were damaged in the fire.American and international intelligence sources believe the detonation of North Korea's underground nuclear test tunnels at Punggye-ri may have amounted to little more than a show, CNN reported Saturday.

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"The amount of dust leads us to believe that (the explosions) were quite superficial," said an international arms official who follows North Korea closely.

Nuclear site explosion (Photo: AFP)

According to CNN, what first appeared to be a gesture indicating North Korea might be willing to dismantle its nuclear weapons program appears to have been little more than a propaganda effort for the world's cameras.

About a week and a half ago, North Korean officials invited two dozen international journalists into the country to observe the apparent destruction of the site, billing it as an exercise in transparency. No weapons inspectors or nonproliferation experts were invited to witness the detonation.

The move was praised by many in the United States, but now initial assessments indicate that the show was essentially a charade.

Documentation of nuclear site explosion in North Korea

X

"The explosions seem to have been too small" for scientists to have discerned any significant geologic activity such as collapsing tunnels, the international arms control official told CNN. "The fact that journalists were reportedly only around 500 meters from the explosions is a good indication that these were small blasts."

Preliminary analysis of North Korea's detonation indicates the explosions were not strong enough to destroy the tunnels, a US official with knowledge of the findings told CNN.

The analysis is based on seismic sensors in the region that calculated how large the explosive events were at the time.

US officials have also confirmed that imagery shows technical equipment was removed from the tunnel complex prior to the detonations, indicating the North Koreans were keeping gear for potential reuse.

The detonated nuclear site. 'The explosions seem to have been too small' (Photo: AP)

Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Sunday that North Korea would receive relief only after it took clear and irreversible steps to end its nuclear program, adding it would be a bumpy road to a summit between US and North Korean leaders.

The comments sought to address concern the United States may be rushing to strike a breakthrough in the unprecedented summit between the two leaders after US President Donald Trump put the meeting back on track for June 12 in Singapore.

"We can anticipate, at best, a bumpy road to the (negotiations)," Mattis said at the start of a meeting with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts on the sidelines of Shangri-la dialogue in Singapore.

"We will continue to implement all UN Security Council resolutions on North Korea. North Korea will receive relief only when it demonstrates verifiable and irreversible steps to denuclearization," Mattis added.In 2001, after the infamous NGO Forum of the UN Durban Conference that launched the BDS and demonization campaigns, I began to research the political power of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), particularly those active in the realms of human rights and international law.

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As an academic, I was surprised that there was essentially no critical research or analysis on this issue. Discussion of these groups largely accepted their own self-definitions, as politically neutral promoters of liberal democratic norms, doing good things. This halo effect extended to their donors, who, in providing resources to Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, among others, were feted among the good and great of the world.

While the recent article by Ron Krebs and James Ron (Why Israelis Should Welcome Funding of Their NGOs) fits the halo effect myth, reality does not.

Human rights organizations protest during Operation Protective Edge (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

Increasingly, these groups are recognized as powerful political players without accountability. In Israel, as NGO Monitor research has shown, 30 NGOs, all from the left extreme of the political spectrum, have received NIS 500 million (about $150 million) over the past five years. Two-thirds of this total of foreign NGO funding, which has no parallel in any other democratic society, comes from the EU and Western European governments. And many of these NGO recipients use the money to promote demonization of Israel, including BDS and the allegations of war crimes and apartheid that fuel anti-Semitic attacks around the world.

A budget of NIS 500 million is particularly huge, especially in the absence of accountability, checks and balances, and transparency. Provided in the name of democracy, the recipient NGOs suffer from a basic democratic deficit, including lack of transparency and accountability. In addition, with their European government funds, BTselem, Breaking the Silence, Yesh Din, and the other NGOs in this closely interconnected network lobby politicians, pay PR companies to get extensive media coverage, and flood the courts with political cases, thus generating more media attention for their agendas.

While the principles of sovereignty and non-interference in the democratic processes of other countries are central in relations between states, these are violated when European governments become the primary funders of Israeli political NGOs. A number of Israeli political leaders have suggested funding polarizing NGOs involved in various European separatist movements. How would they react, they ask, if the NGO funding shoe was on the other foot?

In the few instances when outside governments have funded political NGOs in the US (opposing the death penalty) and Canada (on environmental issues), the backlash was sharp, and the grants were not renewed. In Ireland, legislation gave the government authority to force the return of foreign NGO funding designed for political purposes, including to promote or oppose, directly or indirectly. a particular outcome. This indeed occurred during the recent referendum on abortion, when donations from the Open Society Foundation (George Soros) to pro-abortion NGOs were barred.

Israeli critics also note the extent to which the European-funded NGOs travel the world marketing their private foreign policies, under the heading of human rights and international law. Groups like Breaking the Silence and BTselem appear before influential audiences in the UN and ICC frameworks, parliaments, churches, universities, and media platforms.

Citing these NGO allegations, faculty in European universities have banned Israelis from classrooms (including some of my former students), and ripped Israeli products off shelves, using war criminals and apartheid labels. The majority of Israelis who vehemently reject these narratives have no opportunity to present their case on the same foreign platforms - they lack the resources for such high-impact political tours.

Israelis protest NGO law outside Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked's home (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

This form of external manipulation reinforces pressure for Israeli political responses. The Israeli law criticized by Krebs and Ron requires NGOs getting most of their budget from foreign governments to make this transparent - hardly draconian, and consistent with the citizens right to know.

In American terms, this situation is similar in response of progressives to the Supreme Courts Citizens United decision that essentially opened the door to unlimited corporate election funding. But in the funding in the Israeli case goes to so-called progressives at the other pole of the ideological spectrum, and our playing field is much smaller.

To go beyond the rhetoric and into the details, it is useful to look at the Norwegian Refugee Councils Information Counseling and Legal Assistance (ICLA) program, also funded by the UK government, among others. ICLAs 2016 budget of $7.5 million was distributed to the usual NGO suspects to file hundreds of political cases in the Israeli courts. (One NGO lawyer referred to flooding the Israeli courts in this campaign.)

At the same time, the NRC, EU, and other funders run the West Bank Protection Consortium, which funnels additional sums to the same NGOs for more legal advocacy. And all of this activity, which is a small part of the overall foreign NGO funding picture, takes place without transparency. Freedom of Information requests in the UK and EU for regarding the payments to the different NGOs in these frameworks have been refused, first on technical excuses (too many documents, too long a period, etc.), and finally claiming ostensible national security concerns. If diplomatic channels have failed (or not been tried) to stop this anti-democratic practice, Israeli politicians are likely to turn to more restrictive legislation.

For all of these reasons, European empowerment of these polarizing groups at war with much of Israeli society is far from slogans such as giving voice to the voiceless, power to the powerless and strengthening democracy, repeated by Krebs and Ron. Massive external funding for a very narrow group of unaccountable and polarizing NGOs is in fact corrupting the democratic principles in whose name they claim to speak.Austria's vice chancellor and leader of the country's far-right Freedom Party called for ending the European Union's sanctions against Russia, days before he meets Russian President Vladimir Putin during a trip to Vienna.

Heinz-Christian Strache, whose pro-Moscow party is junior partner to Chancellor Sebastian Kurz's conservatives, has said in the past he did not favour EU sanctions against Moscow over its backing of rebels in Ukraine.

In an interview with the newspaper Oesterreich printed on Sunday, he sharpened his tone.

"It is high time to put an end to these exasperating sanctions and normalise political and economic relations with Russia," he was quoted as saying.A senior Qatari official said Sunday his country would not be dragged into any conflict with Iran.

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Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Khalid Al Attiyah told an international security conference in Singapore that Qatar had "a lot of differences" with Iran but it did not mean "we go and fuel a war" in the region.

"Is it wise to call the United States and to call Israel to go and fight Iran? ... Whether any third party is trying to push the region or some country in the region to start a war in Iran, this will be very dangerous," he said.

US President Donald Trump with Qatari emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in 2017 (Photo: Reuters)

He did not name any party but could be referring to Iran's rival Saudi Arabia, which has also led a blockade of Qatar with its Persian Gulf allies since June last year, accusing Doha of supporting extremists and refusing to cut ties with Tehran.

"Iran is next door. We should call Iran, put all the files on the table and start to discuss to bring peace rather than war," he said in a speech.

Responding to a question whether Qatar's air bases could be used to launch airstrikes on Iran, al-Attiyah said that his country was not a "fan of war" and supported engagement and dialogue.

Qatar is hosting 10,000 US troops stationed at sprawling al-Udeid Air Base as part of its campaign against the Islamic State group and the war in Afghanistan.

Al Attiyah called for salvaging a 2015 nuclear accord between world powers and Iran that offered Tehran sanctions relief for curbs on its nuclear program. The US withdrew from the deal last month.

"Everyone should keep holding on to this and advance with this. In my own judgment, I think the United States is wiser than to enter in a war with Iran," he said.

He also said Qatar was "firmly aligned" against terrorism and has implemented UN resolutions and penalties targeting militants.Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman has decided to move IDF Radio from Jaffa to a new establishment in Jerusalem built by the Defense Ministry.

Galgalatz 's commander Shimon Elkabetz welcomed the decision saying, " The public broadcast's natural place is in Israel's capital."

Within three months, IDF Radio will commence broadcasting its news edition from Jerusalem's new studios.Germany's president has asked gays for forgiveness for decades of suffering and injustice they endured as a result of repressive laws in Germany in the Nazi era and after World War II.

Frank-Walter Steinmeier spoke Sunday in a ceremony marking the persecution of gays by the Hitler regime.

The dpa news agency quoted Steinmeier as saying that the harsh treatment continued in the post-war era, in both parts of a then-divided Germany, where homosexuality for years remained a criminal offense.

The president says "this is why I'm asking for forgiveness today, for all the suffering and injustice, and the silence that followed."

Steinmeier says he wants to reassure "all gays, lesbians and bisexuals, all queers, trans- and intersexuals" that they are protected in today's Germany.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday received the recommendations of a special committee appointed to regulate Jewish conversion in Israel from the committee's chairman, former Minister Moshe Nissim.

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The main recommendation is to create a new conversion authority that would be committed to Jewish Law but wont be linked to Israel's Chief Rabbinate.

Netanyahu thanked Nissim for his work and said he would "continue working to find solutions that would strengthen the unity among the Jewish people in Israel and in the Diaspora."

The proposal was met with angry reactions from the ultra-Orthodox parties and Israel's chief rabbis.

Nissim presents Netanyahu with the committee's recommendations (Photo: Kobi Gideon/GPO)

Nissim said during a press conference, "All nations of the world, including all the great empires, and the Jewish peopledespite the inquisitions and the destruction and everything they went through in all the generationsare not only going strong but have returned to their land and built their own national home.

"There is only one explanation: The ban on mixed marriage. Mixes marriage is a poisonous drug for the Jewish people. Unfortunately, we have been suffering in recent generations from a situation which I can only define as a spiritual holocaust. The assimilation rate in the Jewish Diaspora is over 70 percent. Instead of maintaining its existence and growing, the Jewish people are diminishing."

The Nissim plan is the product of a compromise between the Orthodox religious establishment and the liberal streams, following the conversion crisis that broke out about a year ago, when the Ministerial Committee for Legislation approved a proposal to enforce the status of the state conversion system, which had operated until then as a unit in the Prime Minister's Office without any legal regulation.

The goal of the original law, which was encourage by the Haredim, was to prevent any future recognition of Reform and Conservative conversions by the High Court, as part of a pending petition. The world Jewry, which is mostly affiliated with the liberal streams, was furious, prompting Netanyahu to shelve the law and appoint a committee to look into the issue.

The committee's report includes a recommendation to soften the law: State conversion would remain Orthodox and would be performed according to Jewish law, but would no longer be in the hands of the Chief Rabbinate. On the other hand, liberal conversions performed abroad would be recognized in Israel under the Law of Return.

The recommendations infuriated the Haredi parties. Yated Ne'eman, the mouthpiece of United Torah Judaism's Lithuanian faction, wrote on Friday that the Nissim report was "even more dangerous than the previous situation," arguing that most of the people who appeared before "the one-man committee" were "Reform and Conservative Jews or people with a 'rabbinical' role from organizations and bodies with a compromising and dangerous agenda."

Knesset Member Moshe Gafni said, "The document tries to satisfy everyone, and satisfying everyone means compromising on fundamental issues."

MK Yakov Asher stated, "We will strongly oppose any decision harming the status quo and the Jewish people's wholeness."

According to estimates in the political system, the Haredi parties won't settle for thwarting the suggested law, but will demand a more conservative, one-sided plan which will lead to creation of a new conversion authority that will be subject to the Chief Rabbinate.

They are concerned that if no legislation is advanced on the issue, the High Court will soon rule on the liberal movements' petition. Conversion officials believe that a ruling has already been prepared and that it recognizes the Reform and Conservative conversions for civilian matters, as the court ruled about two years ago on private Orthodox conversions.

Chief rabbi: New bill encourages assimilation

Meanwhile, Israel's chief rabbis presented a united front against the new proposal. "It encourages assimilation," Chief Rabbi David Lau said during an emergency meeting. "It's a window to bringing the destruction of Judaism around the world to the Holy Land. They are deluding people that we are solving a problem here, but it's the exact opposite."

Addressing the proposal to create an independent system, Rabbi Lau clarified: "The Chief Rabbinate has been making a great effort all these years to ensure that this won't happen, and this document is basically inviting (Assimilation). The people of Israel can't accept such a reality for a single moment."

Rabbi David Lau (L) and Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef (Photos: Gil Yohanan, Shturem.net)

The meeting was attended by city rabbis, religious judges and prominent yeshiva heads affiliated with the conservative stream of Religious Zionism.

Israel's chief Sephardic rabbi, Yitzhak Yosef, called on "all of Israel's rabbis, of all circles," to "stand guard," saying that "there is a recognition here of conversions not according to Jewish Law, and there is a recognition of Reform conversions. It's a very serious breach. I ask all the rabbis to sign and join the protest and bury this law. This law isn't worthy of being discussed."

At the end of the meeting, the participantsled by the chief rabbispublished a manifesto reading: "We, Israel's rabbis, are concerned about the danger to the Jewish people's unity as a result of the proposals for a conversion reform which excludes the Chief Rabbinate and recognizes Reform and Conservative conversions.

"We, as Israel's rabbis, demand that the state recognize conversions performed exclusively according to the Chief Rabbinate's orders and under its authority. We call on the prime minister to reject the Nissim Committee's report and immediately advance legislation that will stop the High Court's attempts to recognize private conversions and Reform conversions."

The rabbis concluded by appealing to "all Knesset members and all ministers to do everything in their power to stop the conversion reform which may lead to assimilation and to a rift within the Jewish people, like the situation taking place, unfortunately, in many Reform and Conservative communities worldwide."President Reuven Rivlin welcomed Sunday Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman's decision to move IDF Radio from Jaffa to Jerusalem.

"I'm content that 'the soldiers' home' will be broadcasted from Jerusalem, Israel's capital.

"Such a move should be done with many (of Israel's) establishments, including Israel's government offices," the president added.Generals have been wiretapped in the past for fear of leaks and such surveillance is justified in the event of a sensitive operation, former Shin Bet chief Major-General (res.) Ami Ayalon told Ynet on Sunday amid reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had asked former Shin Bet Director Yoram Cohen to listen to the Mossad chief and IDF chief of staff.

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"I think that we just love to hate, and this time it really is unfounded hatred," Ayalon said about the criticism directed at the prime minister.

"We are completely misunderstanding the whole situation," Ayalon explained. "A general security service is responsible by law for the state's security, for a democratic regime's procedures, for threats of sabotage, terror, exposure of state secrets.

Ami Ayalon (:  )

"According to the law, as soon as I understand, and I have no information beyond what was written in the paper, in the case of a top secret operation, that a leak of its future existence could endanger citizens or the state, it is the General Security Service's jobeven without the prime minister's request or orderto ensure that nothing is leaked. What does a general security service do? That's the service director's problem. If he has to listen, he submits requests and is entitled to listen according to the proper procedures."

Can a prime minister, a political echelon, ask a Shin Bet director to wiretap another body's director? For example, if you're listening to the chief of staff, you may be listening to the opposition leader as well.

"There is a big difference between the chief of staff and the opposition leader, because the opposition leader is protected by the law and by his immunity. Doctors, lawyers, public representatives are protected by the law. The chief of staff and Mossad director are civil servants.

"Espionage books say the biggest spies were senior officials in the CIA, in the FBI, in the MI5 and MIC. So logically, based on past events and on justice and ethics, it's unthinkable that a sergeant or a corporal would be put under surveillance because we are afraid they leak information, but we won't listen to the Mossad chief or chief of staff because they are trusted. Trust has nothing to do with it."

When can the Shin Bet chief refuse?

Ayalon explained that this sometimes means no harm. "We love to hate the prime minister, and there are a lot of things in his policy that I disagree with. If I had to advise him on how to respond to this leak, I would say to the media: Gentlemen, I am in charge of the Israeli citizens' security, among other things, and I instructed the Shin Bet chief to do whatever it takes to ensure that there would be no leaks."

Asked whether the media had given too much weight to the wording of Yoram Cohen's denial, Ayalon responded: "Sometimes, because of impossible leaks from the General Staff, mainly leaks for generals' promotion purposes during happy times, in the 1970s, 1980s and even 1990s, prime ministers asked the Shin Bet chief to wiretap generals at least once or twice, as far as I know from studying history.

From left to right: Former Mossad chief Tamir Pardo, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen (Photos: Yair Sagi, Emil Salman, Motti Kimchi)

"It's totally unrelated to the State of Israel's security, it's on the level of promotional gossip, if a prime minister asks to listen to senior police or military or Mossad officials because they are leaking information for promotion purposes. In this case, the Shin Bet chief should say no. But when the issue is a sensitive operation, if I were the Shin Bet chief I wouldnt automatically refuse.

"The wiretapping still requires approval, these things are regulated by law. I think we just love to hate, and this time it's really unfounded hatred," he added.

"According to my understanding," Ayalon said, "there was a crisis of faith between Netanyahu and senior defense establishment officials. We had a similar crisis of faith when I was the Shin Bet director. Netanyahu has been having this crisis of faith for many years. But in this specific case, I believe the crisis of faith is irrelevant. If leaked, this information could jeopardize the State of Israel's security, so it's in accordance with the law."

During your service under three prime ministers, were you asked to wiretap senior officials in Israel?

"I was asked to wiretap and I refused, although there was no law. At the time the police were fighting what was known as 'the Russian mob' on issues of funds, money laundering, etc. The police didn't have all the tools to fight this threat and I was asked, not by the prime minister but with the knowledge of the relevant ministers, to help the police with this issue.

"I said, gentlemen, the State of Israel gave the Shin Bet its authority for very specific issues, and this isn't one of them. If you want to, go ahead, there's an attorney general."An incendiary kite launched from Gaza triggered a fire in the Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council's Simhoni Forest.

Firefighting teams were called to the scene.

No casualties were reported.PARIS -- The French newspaper Le Monde is reporting that Saudi Arabia wants France to help prevent Qatar from buying Russia's most advanced air defense missile system.

Le Monde said it has seen a letter written by Saudi King Salman to French President Emmanuel Macron to express his "deep concerns" that Qatar is looking to purchase the air defense system, the S-400.

Le Monde quoted the letter as saying that if the missiles were deployed in Qatari territory, "the kingdom would be ready to take all necessary measures to eliminate this defense system, including military action."

King Salman signed an agreement in Moscow last year to purchase the S-400 air defense system.

The French president's office said Sunday it wouldn't comment on Le Monde's report.JERUSALEM -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads to Europe this week in a bid to rally support from key allies for amending the international nuclear deal with Iran and for pushing Iranian forces out of neighboring Syria.

Netanyahu is set to meet with leaders from Germany, France and Britain, beginning with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday.

Addressing his Cabinet Sunday, Netanyahu said archenemy Iran would top his agenda and voiced optimism for a successful visit. Israel has been a leading critic of the international nuclear deal with Iran, and more recently, has said it will not allow Iran to establish a permanent military presence in Syria.

"For years we stood alone against these twin threats and I think that the situation has changed for the better," Netanyahu said.

Both the US and Israel hope that Trump's withdrawal can lead all sides into addressing what they say are the deal's shortcomings -- including "sunset" provisions that end restrictions on Iranian nuclear activities, such as enriching uranium, as well as permitting Iran to continue to develop long-range missiles.A string of former IDF generals have defended the practice of an Israeli prime minister tapping the phones of top brass in Israels security establishment, following reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had asked former Shin Bet Director Yoram Cohen to eavesdrop telephone conversations of a former Mossad chief and a former IDF chief of staff.

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Netanyahu had allegedly ordered then-head of the Shin Bet Yoram Cohen to wiretap former IDF chief of staff Benny Gantz and former Mossad director Tamir Pardo, the " Uvda " investigative television program reported Thursdaya claim Netanyahu vehemently denied on Friday.

Gantz served as the militarys head between 2011 and 2014, while Pardo served between 2011 and 2016.

L-R: Tamir Pardo, PM Netanyahu and Benny Gantz (Photo: Amil Salman, Motti Kimchi and Yair Sagi)

According to the generals, not only would such a move by a prime minister be legal, but also necessary. A number of the generals also believe that they were listened to in the past and say that they take no issue with the possibility.

Earlier, former Shin Bet chief Major-General (res.) Ami Ayalon told Ynet that generals have been wiretapped in the past for fear of leaks, adding that such surveillance is justified in the event of a sensitive operation.

General (res.) Yaakov Amidror, a former general and national security advisor, also weighed in on the matter, supporting Ayalons contention.

The job of the prime minister is to make sure that important state secrets are not leaked in order to prevent damage to the states security, he said.

Therefore, mechanisms exist to which he can turn according to the need and they decide who to wiretap, he added. In other words, the prime minister cannot decide who to tap.

Another former general, Gershon Hacohen who served as commander of the General Staff, also urged calm over the reports, adding that his telephone too had also been bugged.

Theres no need to get excited. I was also wiretapped. It happened. Im aware that this is part of the obligations of a person who is in the security apparatus, he said.

During the disengagement (from Gaza in 2005ed.), I was the commander of forces who were expected to evacuate the residents of Gush Katif, he continued, in reference to the bloc of 17 Israeli settlements once located in the southern Gaza strip.

Gershon Hacohen (Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)

But I prayed every day that it wouldnt happen. It is fair to assume that there was a question about where I stood. Between me and the then-IDF chief of Staff Dan Halutz there was trust. Thats why I told him as a word of honor that I was ready to carry out what was imposed on me. Whether they believed me, I dont know . But it is fair to assume that in a case like that I was tapped, he surmised.

According to Hacohen, the issue of trust between the prime minister and the leaders of the security establishment remains problematic, but that this is not restricted to Netanyahu.

There were differences of opinion between David Ben Gurion and the Chief of Staff Yigal Alon during the War of Independence, the former general continued. The arguments were known and they could be seen. The suspicion and the tension between the leaders are an inseparable part of, and are built into, every system that is not a production line for sewing clothes, Hacohen continued.

General Amiram Levin (res.), who in the past served as the head of the Mossad and commander of Northern Command, also entered the fray, reinforcing the notion that such bugging is a necessary component of maintaining state secrets.

The matter of defending state secrets is important in order to ensure that there are not leaks and to deter against leaks. I have great respect for Tamir Pardo, but as the operation for attacking the nuclear project approached, he knew that there was a lack of trust and transparency at the highest echelons," he argued.

"These echelons need to make the decision together which is why it is serious and worrying. I dont know if the prime minister sought, specifically, to tap the phones, but the decision on whether in one case or another tapping should be used is legitimate and that is the role of the Shin Bet.

Ami Ayalon (:  )

There are senior officials who are supposed to safeguard state security, and their responsibility and knowledge should be enough to keep them quiet. But in recent times there has been chattering among the officials, including Netanyahus decision to reveal the details of the (Iranian) nuclear project and the book published by Ehud Barak," Levin lamented.

"In my opinion this is leaking of state secrets. The phenomenon is extremely concerning and thats why we have to act with all means to ensure it doesnt happen.

Other former generals, including Amos Yaron, who served as director of the Defense Ministry, also defended Ayalons comments. By contrast, former general Danny Rothschild, who in the past served as the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), insists that he was never aware of any such practices, and that if they were taking place, they were wrong.

I am not aware of wiretapping that took place among senior officers, and if there was I think its unnecessary and wrong, Rothschild said. "If youre not confident about a specific officer, fire him."Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads to Europe this week in a bid to rally support from key allies for amending the international nuclear deal with Iran and for pushing Iranian forces out of neighboring Syria.

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Netanyahu is set to meet with leaders from Germany, France and Britain, beginning with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Monday.

Addressing his Cabinet Sunday, Netanyahu said archenemy Iran would top his agenda and voiced optimism for a successful visit. Israel has been a leading critic of the international nuclear deal with Iran, and more recently, has said it will not allow Iran to establish a permanent military presence in Syria.

"For years we stood alone against these twin threats and I think that the situation has changed for the better," Netanyahu said.

PM Netanyahu and Emmanuel Macron (Photo: Amos Ben-Gershom/GPO)

Netanyahu unsuccessfully tried to block the landmark nuclear deal, which gave Iran relief from crippling sanctions in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program, when it was negotiated in 2015 under the leadership of President Barack Obama. He has found a welcome ally in President Donald Trump, who last month announced the US was withdrawing from the deal.

Both the US and Israel hope that Trump's withdrawal can lead all sides into addressing what they say are the deal's shortcomingsincluding "sunset" provisions that end restrictions on Iranian nuclear activities, such as enriching uranium, as well as permitting Iran to continue to develop long-range missiles.

Netanyahu says that as the deal expires over the next decade or so, Iran will emerge with the ability to produce a nuclear bomb in a very short time.

In addition to the US, the nuclear deal was negotiated by Germany, France, Britain, Russia and China. The remaining members have said they remain committed to the deal. Iran for now also is honoring the agreement, though some top officials have suggested it resume its enrichment activities.

Macron's office said France will insist on having a dialogue with Iran.

An official in his office said Macron, along with Germany and the UK, have all been "clear" that they will work with the existing deal, viewing it as the best way to control Iran's nuclear activity. The official spoke on condition of anonymity under customary briefing guidelines.

Oded Eran, a former Israeli ambassador to the European Union, said Netanyahu is unlikely to change the minds of his counterparts on the necessity for the current agreement.

But he said he may sway them on certain details not included in the deal, such as Iran's missile development and the expiration of restrictions on nuclear activity.

"There's no secret that the prime minister wants to completely change the agreement and replace it with an agreement that covers the issues that are missing," said Eran, senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies at Tel Aviv University. "I don't think that he will change the policy, but he will get maybe a commitment to work on the missing points."

While Iran says its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only, Israel recently released tens of thousands of seized Iranian nuclear documents that Netanyahu said proves that Iran pursued a nuclear bomb in the past. He is likely to discuss this information with the other leaders.

PM Netanyahu and Angela Merkel (Photo: Amos Ben Gershom/GPO)

Eran said Netanyahu may make more progress on his other demandexpelling Iranian forces from Syria.

Netanyahu has long identified Iran as its greatest threat, pointing to its nuclear program, calls for Israel's destruction and support of anti-Israel militant groups.

Israel fears that as the Syrian civil war winds down, Iran, whose forces and Shi'ite proxies have backed President Bashar Assad, will turn its focus to Israel.

The Israeli air force is believed to have carried out a number of airstrikes on Iranian positions in Syria. Last month, the bitter enemies openly clashed when Iran fired dozens of rockets at Israeli positions in the Golan Heights, and Israel responded by striking several Iranian targets in Syria.

Eran said he believes the European leaders are receptive to Israeli concerns.

"I think he will reach an understanding on the question of Iran's deployment in Syria and other activities of Iran in the region," he said.

The French official said Iranian influence in Syria needs to be addressed, and that France agrees that Iran's military presence there is a threat to security. The official said Macron would seek to be briefed on Israeli dialogue with Russiaanother key Assad backerabout Iran.

Russian officials have signaled in recent days that there may soon be an agreement for Iran to move its forces away from Israel's border, but there has been no confirmation of a deal.

In addition to discussing the Iranian deal, Netanyahu is likely to hear about European concerns about Israel's use of live fire in mass Palestinian protests along the Gaza's border with Israel.

PM Netanyahu and Theresa May (Photo: AP)

The EU has accused Israel of using excessive force, while rights groups have accused Israeli snipers of acting illegally by using deadly force against unarmed protesters who did not pose an immediate threat to their lives.

Israel says Gaza's Hamas leaders are responsible for the bloodshed, adding that many of the protesters that were shot were Hamas members and were engaged in violent or terror activities.

It accuses the terror group of using protesters as cover to break through the border fence and carry out attacks. Some protesters have hurled firebombs, tried to breach the fence or sent flaming kites over the border to burn nearby Israeli farmland, undermining Hamas' claims that the protests were entirely peaceful.

Netanyahu's first stop will be in Germany. Merkel has been a critic of Netanyahu's, objecting to settlement policies in the West Bank and its building in eastern Jerusalem. Last year, Netanyahu also snubbed Germany's foreign minister, Sigmar Gabriel, after he met with a non-governmental organization critical of Israel's West Bank policies. The two met earlier this year.

In France, Netanyahu and Macron will attend a ceremony celebrating Israel's 70th anniversary. He then heads to Britain to meet with Prime Minister Theresa May.Saturday night's rocket fire from the Gaza Strip was likely carried out by Salafi Islamist organizations, which Israeli officials refer to as "rebel" groups. The radical Muslim members of these organizations wish to turn the strip into the Islamic State's "Sinai district" branch.

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Hamas and Islamic Jihad, which belong to the political Islam, are these groups' bitter enemies and are constantly trying to destroy and target their members, seeing them as a threat to the Hamas rule in Gaza.

The Salafi group's strategy is to get Israel to do their job for them. Their goal to get the IDF to enter the strip for another round, which will include a ground invasion. In this round, they believe, the IDF will eliminate the Hamas rule and maybe even replace it or bring members of Mahmoud Abbas' Palestinian Authority to control the strip.

IAF strike in Gaza, Saturday night (Photo: AFP)

Either case, the radical groups believe, would make it easier for them to act, as the regime would be less violent and would receive less support from the population compared to the Hamas government, facilitating their cooperation with Islamic State operatives in Sinai who are fighting Egypt.

Aware of the explosive situation and knowing Israel will retaliate against Hamas targets, the members of these organizations are doing everything they can to prevent an arrangement that will leave Hamas in power for a long time.

Cairo is scheduled this week to host a meeting for a long-term arrangement in Gaza, both of the economic situation and of the security situation, and the rebels are interested in preventing this meeting from succeeding. That's why they are firing rockets and mortar shells.

Gaza Strip, Sunday morning (Photo: AFP)

Another reason is the anger in the Gaza Strip following the killing of a Palestinian nurse during the fence riots. On Saturday, thousands attended the funeral of 21-year-old Razan Ashraf Najjar, a volunteer medic, whose apparent killing by IDF troops is still being investigated by the army.

These appear to be the two reasons prompting the rebel organizations to launch occasional rockets, knowing that the IDF will respond to make Hamas prevent them from firing.

They are also hearing the Israeli media's interview with residents of the Gaza vicinity and they know that without a lot of effort, although their rockets don't endanger the residents and although the Iron Dome system intercepts the rockets that do endanger the residents, they can disrupt the residents' lives by making them sleep in their safe rooms and traumatizing their children.

Then, the rebels hear interviews with the heads of the Gaza vicinity regional councils, and they know that the government in Jerusalem is being pressured to enter Gaza and put things in order, and that's exactly what they're hoping for. Hamas usually tries to prevent the rebel groups' from firing rockets, but it's quite possible that it gave them free rein following the nurse's killing.

Rocket intercepted in Sderot (Photo: Uri Peretz)

There is no doubt that Hamas is deterred and was deterred by the IDF's activities in the past week, which is why it is avoiding firing rockets itself. It is also imposing its authority on the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the fear of IDF strikes along with the Egyptian pressure are doing the trick.

The problem remains unchanged. This pattern of rebel fire, an Israeli response, and so on and so forth, harms the Gaza vicinity residents' routine life and causes them a lot of suffering, if only as a result of the repeated sirens at night. It may also drag the IDF and Hamas into a conflict they aren't interested in.

Meanwhile, the IDF has realized once again that it has a problem detecting from the air rocket and mortar launched from areas with abundant flora using "timers" or launching pads installed underground. Two radical Muslims sit in a bush with a launcher, attach a kitchen timer and flee, and the Gaza vicinity residents run into the bomb shelters. Hamas can't catch all of them, even when it wants to, and especially when it's more convenient to turn a blind eye.

(Photo: Nir Leichter)

The answer seems to be a ground invasion that would make it possible to physically locate these launchers and destroy them, but that would require the IDF to remain in the strip for a long time. This means that there are two long-term solutions for the current conflict in the Gaza Strip, which is expected to escalate on Tuesday, Naksa Day, when the Palestinians mark the Arab armies' defeat and the Palestinian defeat in the Six-Day War.

One solution is that the IDF will enter Gaza and reoccupy the strip or parts of it. The IDF and Shin Bet will remain there for a long period of time until they forcibly dismantle all of Hamas and Islamic Jihad's military "assets," including rockets and tunnels. Such an operation could take a long time, cost hundreds of millions of shekels and solve the problem for no more than five or six years, if and when the IDF pulls out of the strip. There is no one else at the moment, including the PA, that is willing to take responsibility for the strip.

Potential mediators: Ireland and Scandinavia

So the only reasonable solution, as far as Israel is concerned, is a long-term arrangement with Hamas in Gaza, which will see the terror organization partially disarming from its heavy weapons and tunnels. In return, about 2 million Palestinians in Gaza will be given the option of gradually relieving their distress through an ease of movement restrictions and international investments in the strips economy. Even Hamas knows there isnt a sensible investor who would be willing to put his money in a place prone to a violent outburst at any given moment.

At the moment, Israels favored mediator for such an arrangement is Egypt. We must admit, however, that the Egyptian intelligence operating on behalf of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has failed to demonstrate remarkable negotiating skills. They play for time, move slowly, and mainly think about how to serve Egypt's interests rather than the interest of reaching an arrangement.

Behind the scenes, therefore, Israel should save the Egyptians face but seek the involvement of other mediators, who are more skilled in negotiations and have the ability to secure investments in the strip if an arrangement is reached. I am particularly referring to European countries, including the Scandinavians and the Irish, who have already proved their negotiating skills although they are not particularly fond of us.

When it comes to negotiating with clients like Hamas and Islamic Jihad, even the Scandinavian and the Irish are possible mediators.A massive fire swept through the Shokeda Forest in southern Israel on Sunday evening after an incendiary kite was flown over the Gaza border by Palestinian terrorists.

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Two firefighting crews were called to the scene to battle the raging flames as the phenomenon of flaming kites continues to wreak havoc on Israels southern residents, with the IDF as yet unable to provide a comprehensive counter solution. Another fire also broke out at the Reim parking lot.

Fire caused by incendiary kite from Gaza ravages southern forest (:   , ")

X

The forest is visited each winter by thousands of tourists who flock from around the country to participate in the Red South festival.

(Photo: Danny Ben David/KKL)

Despite the effectiveness of the primitive weapon being increasingly employed by terrorists from the Gaza border, the IDF has registered some success in tackling the threat.

On Sunday evening, soldiers managed to foil an attempt to fly a flaming kite into Israeli territory that glided the border on the southern strip, causing it to fall near the security fence. No one was hurt in the incident.

Earlier, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed head of the National Security Council Meir Ben Shabbat to draw up a plan to allocate compensation taken from Palestinians Authority (PA) funds for Israeli communities bordering the Hamas-ruled enclave for damages recently caused by the kites.

During Sunday afternoon, flaming kites struck five points spanning the Gaza border region. Firefighters were swiftly able to extinguish the conflagrations, whereas fires in the Or HaNer Kibbutz continued to resist the efforts of the fire crews by the evening.

No injuries were immediately reported in any of the fires but forests were ravaged in the region, charred and blackened by the flames' onslaught.

The first fire broke out in the morning near Kibbutz Nir Am in the Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council. Two hours later, firefighters managed to contain the flames.

Shortly after, a fire erupted near Or HaNer Kibbutz and spread throughout the vicinity, prompting authorities to close main roads and temporarily block traffic traveling into the city of Sderot due to large plumes of smoke. Four firefighter helicopters were also dispatched to extinguish the flames.

Helicopters battle with flames in southern Israel caused by Gaza incendiary kites (:   ,  )

X

Little time elapsed before another incendiary kite took its toll, causing an inferno in the Simchoni Forest, also in the Shaar HaNegev Regional Council. Fire crews were also able to overcome the flames.

Since the kites were first used in April as part of what Gazans describe as the March of Return protests, the "aerial terror offensive" against the Israeli border communities has continued with greater vigor, including some 300 incendiary kites flown into Israel's territory, causing 100 fires and decimating more than 3,000 acres of wheatfields.

Last week, the Be'eri Crater Reserve adjacent to the Gaza border, considered to be among the most picturesque tourist sites in the region, with its green landscape serving as a natural habitat for a variety of species of animals, was incinerated by one of the kites.

In addition, millions of shekels worth of damage has been caused to the farmers of the area.

In light of the recent spate of incendiary Kite Terror attacks from Gaza plaguing their fields, Israeli farmers from the region announced recently that they intend to sue the Hamas leadership for war crimes at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague.

The incendiary kites from Gaza are consuming not only the agricultural produce and wheat fields of the Israeli communities surrounding Gaza, but also the area's animal population, groves and nature reserves.

The Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) is concerned about the animal population dwindling in the areas that where set on fire by the incendiary kites flown from Gaza. The area's birds managed to escape the blaze, whereas some of the reptiles did not.Arizona News

Tucson, Arizona - Since April 6, the Arizona National Guard has assisted in more than 1,200 arrests, the seizure of more than 1,360 pounds of marijuana, and several conveyances.

Our agency relies on some of the finest law enforcement professionals to meet our goals and execute our mission, said Chief Patrol Agent Rodolfo Karisch. Having the support of committed and dedicated guardsmen gives our agents much needed help, while we work to increase our staffing.

Elements from the Arizona

National Guard have proved

to be a valued asset already

One such example of the Guards hard work occurred Wednesday afternoon, when an air support National Guard helicopter assisted in the apprehension of six marijuana smugglers, in the desert east of Ajo.

A National Guard aircrew spotted a group of six men carrying illicit drugs, and guided Border Patrol agents to their location. Agents were able to arrest all six men illegally present in the country, and seized more than 284 pounds of marijuana during the incident.

Agents were led to the location of six

backpackers and more than 284 pounds

of marijuana

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has a decades-long relationship working with the Department of Defense. The National Guard significantly assists CBP through support such as aerial detection, repairing border infrastructure, and logistical support while CBP focuses on enforcing our immigration laws.Yuma News

Yuma, Arizona - Arizona has been selected as one of six states to participate in the first year of a national Leap into Science network initiative. Our state leadership team organizations include the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records and the Yuma County Library District.

The four-year initiative is led by The Franklin Institute, the National Girls Collaborative Project, and the Institute for Learning Innovation, and will be evaluated by the Education Development Center, with support from the National Science Foundation. http://leap.fi.edu/



Developed by The Franklin Institute, Leap into Science is a nationwide program that integrates open-ended science activities with childrens books, designed for children ages 3-10 and their families. The program empowers educators to offer programs in community settings like libraries, museums, and out-of-school time programs to engage underserved audiences in accessible and familiar settings. This evidence-based program will be made available to a limited number of informal educators in Arizona through in-person trainings. Funding for this project allows us to provide reduced cost resources through 2021.



On Monday, August 13th, the Yuma Main Library will offer two Leap into Science workshops for child care providers, non-profits, and other agencies that support early education and child development. Each participating organization will receive a free resource kit (while supplies last).



Main Library, 2951 S 21st Drive Yuma AZ

Meeting Room B

9:00 a.m.  1:30 p.m.

Complimentary lunch provided



Main Library, 2951 S 21st Drive Yuma AZ

Meeting Room B

4:30 p.m.  8:30 p.m.

Complimentary dinner provided



There is no charge to attend; however, registration is required. Please contact Donna Throckmorton, Library Services Consultant for the AZ State Library, Archives & Public Records, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .Islamabad: Tajikistan is eager to sign a bilateral agreement with Pakistan for the strengthening of the tourism industry in both countries, according to a news report. The Tajikistan Ambassador Sherali Jononov, present at the seminar in Tajikistan  The Land of Opportunities for Tourism Industry of Pakistan said that the two countries had been exploring opportunities for cooperation in different sectors, but had missed tourism.

He highlighted that the basic aim of this was to find ways in strengthening people-to-people contact with Pakistan, as it is considered the hub of tourists between South and Central Asian states. In addition to this, he revealed that a meeting would of working group would be held in Dushanbe where leading tourist companies of Pakistan would be able to learn about strengthening bilateral relations and tourism.

A Pakistani delegation is expected to visit Tajikistan soon to explore tourism opportunities in the country.- Stacy Offei Darko died at the Obengfo Hospital on May 21

- Initial information from the mother indicated Stacy was suffering from malaria and went to see a doctor

- Later, Kennedy Agyapong who has a child with Stacy revealed that Stacy went to the hospital for surgery to reduce her biceps an thighs

- However, a social media user is claiming to have information suggesting that Stacy went to the hospital for an abortion and may have died from that

The late Deputy CEO of the National Entrepreneurship Innovation Program (NEIP), Stacy Offei Darko may not have died at the Obengfo Hospital from surgery complications as we have come to know.

Information making rounds on social media suggest that Stacy, the ex-girlfriend of Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, may have rather died in an attempt to abort a pregnancy.

The information which seems to have emanated from the Instagram account, @thosecalledcelebs, is gaining currency and has been picked up by various news portals and blogs.

READ ALSO: Ask for serious forgiveness for deceiving Ghanaians - Man tells Samira Bawumia as she shares rare photos while praying in a mosque

The death of the Stacy Offei Darko went viral on Monday following the arrest of the Dr Dominic Obeng-Andoh, the MD of the hospital.

She was initially said to have visited the health facility to seek medical attention after she suddenly fell ill with malaria, according to Stacy's mother, Ama Anima.

But it was later revealed by Kennedy Agyapong, with whom she had a 6-year-old daughter, that Stacy went Dr Obengfo for a liposuction procedure to reduce her biceps and thighs but died on Thursday, May 21.

According to the Assin Central MP, a friend of Stacy who accompanied her to the hospital told him that they went to the place on two occasions before the procedure was done.

READ ALSO: Swear by the gods if indeed you are not dating JB Danquah's widow - Family dares Anas

On their first visit, they went in the company of an NPP big man who offered to drop them off at the facility but the ladies took Uber to the hospital the next day.

The lady, Ken Agypong narrated that on NET 2, stated that after the procedure, they brought Stacy to the ward but she could see she was having a short breath and prompted the nurses around but they failed to do anything about it.

Stacy's friend who was flying to Germany on the day went as far as calling another friend to inform the doctor of the of Stacy's situation but it was all to no avail and she had to leave for the airport.

This has been the story in the public domain so far.

READ ALSO: Meet Kwesi Nyantakyi's beautiful first wife and daughters (PHOTOS)

But according to @thosecalledcelebs, Stacy went to the hospital which is known to be a body sculpting centre to get rid of an unwanted pregnancy.

Citing an unnamed close friend, @thosecalledcelebs went ahead to suggest that a top man is the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) was the one responsible for the 'Stacy's pregnancy.'

Another news trending about Stacys death.it has come to my notice datStacy didnt go in for any body shape oooo but she rather went in for an Abortion and de foetus papa is ****is alleged oooo!!!.. de source claims to be a very closed friend, @thosecalledcelebs posted with a picture of Stacy.

While YEN.com.gh cannot independently confirm the allegations being made by @thosecalledcelebs it is worthy to note the NPP big man was involved somehow.

READ ALSO: Ebony's replacement Wendy Shay drops video of her first song featuring Akufo-Addo, Mahama

And also, Dr Obengfo has often been in the news for much worse reasons than performing an abortion. He is even known to have been operating without a licence.

This may just be a rumour but the truth will surely come out when Dr Obengfo starts his testimony in court.

Charged with murder, he will need all the defence he can get and if indeed Stacy died for any other reason than liposuction, the embattled doctor will reveal.

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Source: Yen- The suspended DCE has been given another top-level job

- Government yet to release details of investigations of his actions after the mob-killing of Major Mahama

The suspended District Chief Executive of Denkyira-Obuasi, Daniel Appianin has been made the Deputy Director General of the Ghana Maritime Authority. Appianin was suspended in the wake of the infamous mob killing of Major Mahama in the area.

Although details do not exist as to when he was appointed, his photo is on the Authority's website.

READ ALSO: I need new enemies - Afia Schwar sends a message for a new batch of 'haters'

According to sources within the Authority, this is the first time a deputy has been appointed to assist the director general. The Ghana Maritime Authority was established in 2002 under the John Kuffuor government.

The late Major Maxwell Mahama

During preliminary investigations in the death of Major Mahama, President Akufo-Addo suspended Appianin. His initial statements on the matter even attracted criticism and it drew the attention of the Vice-President.

The veep Dr Mahamudu Bawumia even promised that Appianin's comments were going to be investigated.

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Appianin had mentioned to the media that he was unaware of the presence of Major Mahama's infantry in his district. Many found this untenable since at that level of governance, the DCE was to be informed of any such military operations.

The Minister of Local Government, Hajia Alima Mahama then proceeded to announce the suspension of Appianin. Deputy Central Regional Minister Thomas Agyei Baffuor was appointed to act in Appianin's stead.

May 29, 2018 marked a year of the death of Major Maxwell Mahama. The suspects arrested by government are facing prosecution in court. However, the details on the investigation of the then DCE are not known to the general public.

READ ALSO: UN sends home Ghana police contingent after charges of sexual exploitation

Daniel Appianin is a teacher by profession. He was overwhelmingly elected by the Denkyira-Obuasi district assembly after the New Patriotic Party gained power in 2017.

The Ghana Maritime Authority was established to monitor, regulate and coordinate activities in the maritime industry.

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Source: Yen.com.ghA section of Ghanaians on social media have attacked the founder and leader of the Glorious Word Power Ministries International (GWPMI), Reverend Isaac Owusu Bempah over recent comments he made about former President John Mahama.

Rev. Owusu Bempah is known to have advised former President Mahama not to contest for president again because God had told him (Owusu Bempah) that Mahama can never be president again.

Despite this stark warning from Owusu Bempah, Mahama has gone ahead to declare his intentions to contest.

READ ALSO: Meet Kwesi Nyantakyi's beautiful first wife and daughters (PHOTOS)

I want to congratulate the rank & file and executives of our party, the NDC, at all levels for the commitment and work rate we have put into our reorganization efforts.

To you, the teeming supporters and sympathizers calling and requesting me to declare my intentions for the future, I wish to assure you today, that as a servant-leader, I have listened to your calls and reflected. I will not disappoint you even as we await the publication of the partys guidelines for selecting a new leader, John Mahama wrote on Facebook.

In the aftermath of Mahama's declaration, Rev. Owusu Bempah is reported to have stated that though he was not surprised about Mahamas intention, it will be a total waste of time for the former President to contest in 2020 because he will be embarrassed.

READ ALSO: Ask for serious forgiveness for deceiving Ghanaians - Man tells Samira Bawumia as she shares rare photos while praying in a mosque

"I have always said it and will say again that Mahama will only disgrace himself in 2020 because he wont win the election.

He should go and rest, he can declare his intentions 100 times, I dont mind and not shocked but then truth is that he wont succeed, Owusu Bempah stressed.

But Owusu Bempah has come under fire for his utterances over Mahama's decision.

According to some social media users who participated in YEN.com.gh survey, Rev. Owusu Bempah's words are not from God and he must therefore keep mute.

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Theresa believes Owusu Bempah is only being a politician.

Abdul thinks Shatta Wale should visit Owusu Bmepah if he starts burning fake churches as he warned sometime ago.

Nicholas brings some humour to the discussion.

READ ALSO: Ebony's replacement Wendy Shay drops video of her first song featuring Akufo-Addo, Mahama

Ayesu is wondering why Owusu Bempah is not preaching about salvation

Kwakye thinks Owusu Bempah is a charlatan.

READ ALSO: Ken Agyapong's babymama Stacy Offei Darko allegedly died from abortion at Obengfo Hospital

Owusu Bempah, one of the most popular prophets in Ghana currently, is known for the many prophecies he delivers at the end of every year.

READ ALSO: It's hard wearing a mask around - Anas breaks silence on mysterious look

Credited to have correctly predicted President Nana Akufo-Addo's win in the 2016 elections, he is known to be close to the ruling NPP.

Though he claims to have predicted a win for the NDC in 2008, many members of the opposition party do not like him as his more recent prophecies have not been favourable to the party.

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Source: Yen.com.ghGhanas rap doctor, Okyeame Kwame, has revealed that he would have married TV presenter Deloris Frimpong Manso also known as Delay if he had not met his wife.

He said the reason why he would have gone for Delay is thathe has a thing for women with big behinds and Delay is one of them.

Born Kwame Nsia Apau, the musician had his time on the Delay Show and took his own share of straight-to-the-point questions.

Okyeame Kwame and Delay

READ ALSO: All the photos you missed from the 2018 Golden Movie Awards Africa event

He explained that he would have settled for Delay also because, he finds everything he wants in a woman in her.

You are a very hardworking woman. You know I like women who are industrious. You are beautiful, you have a nice figure. In fact, I like women who are indefatigable.Okyeame Kwame explained

You know how to work for money and also knows how well to spend it.He continued

The rap doctor indicated that she (Delay) in a way, shares a lot of similarities with his wife giving him another reason why he would have easily settled on her if he had not met Anica.

READ ALSO: Photos of Kwesi Nyantakyi's beautiful first wife and children

Okyeame Kwame and Annica Nsiah-Apau have been married for about nine years now. They have two children together, Sir Kwame Bota and Sante Antwiwaa.

The musician was initially in a relationship with Ghanaian actress, Nana Ama McBrown. It was rumoured that the two had issues in the early stages of their relationship and so they broke up.

Watch the video below:

Ghana Trends: Rawlings Official Apologizes to Mahama and Kufuor:

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Source: YenSarkodies daughter, Adalyn Owusu Addo, also known as Titi, is the cutest girl on social media now as her mother shares a wonderful image of her.

The first child of the self-proclaimed king of Ghana music, Titi celebrated her second birthday on February 28 this year.

Her mother and Sarkodies longtime fiance, Tracy, shared a lovely pictureof the all grown Titi in a pop corn pose with a very interesting caption that tells us that Titi loves her popcorn.

Adalyn Owusu-Addo

READ ALSO: Okyeame Kwame reveals his secret love for Delay

Earlier this week, rumours came out that Titis parents are likely to tie the knot in July. Although the exact date for the wedding is not known yet, sources confirm it will definitely be in somewhere July this year.

Sarkodie and Tracy have dated for a very long time. Last year, it was rumored that the two have tied the knot secret without any knowledge of the public but it turned out to be false.

See Tracy's post below:

READ ALSO: All the photos you missed from the 2018 Golden Movie Awards Africa event

Ghana Trends: Rawlings Official Apologizes to Mahama and Kufuor:

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Source: Yen.com.ghControversial actress Moesha Boduong was given the honour of hosting the red-carpet session of the 2018 Golden Movie Awards hosted in Ghana on Saturday.

The awards ceremony brought together actors, actresses and filmmakers from across Africa to be honoured for their outstanding performances in the year under review.

Moesha Boduong at the Golden Movie Awards 2018

READ ALSO: All the photos you missed from the 2018 Golden Movie Awards Africa event

The colourful event came off at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, with Moesha co-hosting the red-carpet session with Jessica Larny.

This represented the first public outing for Moesha, since her infamous interview granted to CNN two months ago.

The actress became the object of scrutiny when she suggested that Ghanaian women need to depend on rich men if they are to be successful.

She was heavily criticized for her utterances, which led to the actress later rendering an unqualified apology to the public.

However, she looked gorgeous as she turned up to host the red carpet of the 2018 Golden Movie awards on Saturday.

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Moesha was in a stylish long gown which caught the eyes of many when she arrived for the big event.

A photo of her hosting the red carpet quickly spread across social media, with netizens divided with compliments and shades in equal measure.

What was evident, though, was that Moesha really enjoyed hosting the red carpet of the 2018 Golden Movie Awards.

Ghana Trends: Rawlings Official Apologizes to Mahama and Kufuor:

READ ALSO: Asamoah Gyans mansion at East Legon to be demolished

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Source: Yen.com.ghThe European Union (EU) and China should team up to foster a new type of international relations, while building on current ties, Chinese ambassador wrote in an article published on The European Sting earlier this week. In the article, Ambassador Zhang Ming, head of the Chinese Mission to the EU, gave a rundown on China's diplomacy and its expectation from the EU. The overarching goal of Chinese diplomacy, he wrote, "is to forge a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness, justice and win-win cooperation, and to build a global community with a shared future."

As Xinhua writes in an article "China, EU should team up to foster new type of international relations: Chinese ambassador", explaining what "a new type of international relations" means, Zhang underscored that "it should not be meant to overturn the current system or start it all over again".

"It is defined not by the dominance of one country or a group of countries, "he wrote. "Rather, we hope that all countries could enjoy equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal rules, and that the current system and order could be more equitable and reasonable."

To translate the vision into reality, the ambassador called upon the EU to join forces with China on five fronts.

"Politically, it is imperative to reject cold-war mentality and power politics, act on the basis of mutual respect and equality, and follow a new approach to state-to-state relations featuring dialogue rather than confrontation, and partnership instead of alliance. "On security, we need to settle disputes and differences through dialogue and consultation, counter traditional and non-traditional challenges in an integrated manner, and fight terrorism in all manifestations.

"Economically, we need to act together to promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and make economic globalization more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial to all.

"Culturally, we should respect the diversity of civilizations, and replace estrangement with exchange, clashes with mutual learning, and superiority with coexistence.

"Ecologically, we should be good friends to the environment, jointly tackle climate change, and protect our planet for the sake of human survival."

Hailing the EU's history which demonstrates that countries could well join hands for win-win outcomes by overcoming historical, cultural and geographical obstacles through creative efforts, Zhang appealed for building "a global community".

"To build a global community is not about devising a set of uniform values to supersede values that are distinct to an ethnicity or nation," he explained. "Rather, it is about identifying the common interests of mankind while preserving diversity and jointly addressing challenges that confront us all."

Terming China and Europe as "two major forces for peace and development", the ambassador highlighted that they "have a joint responsibility to promote globalization and multilateralism, and make the world a place of greater openness, security and prosperity".The EU would consider releasing more funding to help the millions of Syrian refugees sheltering in Turkey when the country met its commitments under a 2016 EU-Turkey refugee deal, European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, Christos Stylianides, said on Wednesday during a visit to Turkey.

As Anadolu Agency writes in an article "EU to consider extra funding to Turkey for refugees", he said 811 million ($909 million) of funding had already been dispersed and the vast majority of an EU 3-billion commitment had been allocated.

Once the 3 billion is used in full, and provided commitments under the EU-Turkey statement are met, we will consider the mobilization of additional funding for the facility," he said. He said implementation of the agreement would bring benefits to EU citizens, Turkish host communities andrefugees.

"Our priority must be in making sure that activities are effectively taking place on the ground," Stylianides said. He also stressed that beyond the specific refugee agreement "a broader dialogue" should continue between the EU and Turkey to deal with challenges. "The EU and Turkey must continue and strengthen their cooperation on this front because there is no alternative way to tackle this unprecedented crisis," he said.

In March 2016, Turkey and the EU signed a refugee deal which aimed at discouraging irregular migration through the Aegean Sea by taking stricter measures against human traffickers and improving the conditions of the nearly three million Syrian refugees in Turkey.

Under the readmission agreement, Turkey is supposed to readmit all irregular asylum seekers who reach Greek islands from the country.

But visa liberalization in Schengen zone countries -- one of the key EU promises made under the deal -- was meant to enhance EU-Turkey cooperation in addressing the refugee crisis and accelerate Turkeys EU membership talks.

Turkey has so far met most of the requirements for visa liberalization, but the EUs demands for change in Ankaras anti-terrorism laws led to a deadlock in negotiations.

The Turkish authorities previously said the refugee deal could collapse if the EU fails to provide Ankara with the promised visa liberalization by the end of this year.

Turkey now hosts some three million Syrian refugees, more than any other country in the world. The country has spent around $25 billion helping and sheltering refugees since the beginning of the Syrian civil war.Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again urged Washington to remain committed to a deal on the supply of US fifth-generation F-35 fighters to Ankara, according to Turkey's Anadolu news agency, Sputnik reports.

"We say that the US is our strategic partner. But the strategic partner should not offer us to knock on other doors. We are not interested in what the Senate said. We are only interested in one thing [the F-35 deliveries]," Erdogan underscored.

He recalled that the issue had already been agreed on during negotiations with US President Donald Trump.

"If we are strategic partners, then the US should not make any legal errors in this issue," Erdogan pointed out.A gunman was killed in a counter-terror operation in the North Caucasus Republic of Dagestan, a source in the republics law-enforcement agencies said on Sunday, TASS reports.

"During a short battle, the security personnel eliminated a gunman from the local gang of Shamil Aliyev in the Tsumadinsky district. The law enforcers found an assault rifle, cartridges and a grenade with him," the source said.NATO plans to set up a 30,000-strong reserve force, plus hundreds of fighter aircraft and ships ready for rapid deployment in the event of an imaginary attack by Russia, Die Welt has reported, citing diplomatic sources in Brussels.

According to the newspaper, the reserve force will be added to the already 20,000-strong NATO Response Force in Europe, which can be deployed within 30 days, Sputnik reports.

The US is reportedly behind the idea for the reserve force with Germany assigned a leading role in the new combat formation.

NATO defense ministers are expected to discuss the plan when they meet in Brussels sometime next week. According to Die Welt, NATO also wants to improve its combat mobility to be able to quickly move tanks and other heavy weapons to potential trouble spots.

This would require better infrastructure and a removal of administrative barriers and facilitate the process of political decision-making.

Moscow, for its part, has repeatedly denied plans to attack any member of the North Atlantic Alliance and insists that NATO is stoking up fears of Russia to increase its military presence along Russias borders.At least nine migrants died when a speed boat carrying them sank off Turkeys southern Antalya province early Sunday. Five people were rescued, while one is still missing, Yeni Safak reported.

Turkey has been the main route for refugees trying to cross into Europe, especially since the beginning of the civil war in Syria.

There has been a 60 percent increase in migrant flow since 2016. The number was 31,000 in 2016.Le Quy Vuong.  Photo dantri.com.vn

Deputy Minister of Public Security and Three-Star General Le Quy Vuong talks to dantri.com.vn on the need to have good co-ordination between various forces in the fight against crime

Several serious street crimes have occurred in HCM City recently. Two street knights were killed and three were seriously wounded in two separate incidents. To curb mounting violence, should the city establish the 141 Task Force like the one in Ha Noi?

HCM City should have established the 141 police task force unit just like that in Ha Noi many years ago. The Ha Noi 141 task force was established at the decision of the director of the Ha Police Department.

Members of Ha Nois 141 task force unit include members of the traffic police, criminal police, military police and other special forces. Their job is to intervene in and solve hot problems that the traffic and law and order police forces are facing.

According to the Ministry of Public Security and the Ha Noi Police, the141 task force has been proven successful in settling many cases against law enforcement officers while they were on duty. At the same time, the 141 task force has also busted many criminal operations in the city.

Beside the 141 task force, Ha Noi also has its Mobile Police Regiment which is on duty daily from 21.00pm to 4am the next morning. The Ha Noi Mobile Police Regiment has captured many criminals who were on their way to commit crimes.

What has HCM City been doing to maintain law and order?

In 2013, the situation in HCM City was rather complicated. The Ministry of Public Security decided to beef up the citys Mobile Police Force. With good co-ordination from various forces, law and order in the city has been well maintained.

The Public Security Minister recently asked the Director of the HCM City Police Department to review and make a comprehensive assessment of the current criminal situation in the city.

In addition, the minister ordered the citys Mobile Police to co-ordinate with other forces to conduct regular patrols in the city to keep law and order.

He also asked the HCM City Police to review the activities of various models of law enforcement, including volunteer groups, and draw lessons from their operations, as well as to work closely with the City Municipality to establish self management groups in communities.

I should say the traffic police, criminal police, anti-crime volunteer groups and others have been operating effectively in HCM City.

Dont you think that given the rising violence, its time for the city to establish the 141 task force unit?

Personally, yes I do. HCM City should study the 141 model and then apply it in a way that suits the city. But how the model will be established to make it suitable to the citys situation is a question we have to consider carefully. I cant negate that the model is effective, but we should make it fit to our citys circumstances.

Two anti-crime volunteers (locals call them knights) in the city were recently murdered. Do you think that the city should continue to let this model operate?

I should say the knight model was the fruit of the campaign that all people participate in the course of defending the justice. The issue here is how to organise the group in a better way, not as spontaneous as it is at present. They need support from other organisations in their activities.

How should the knights continue their operations and be able to protect themselves from danger, while keeping in line with the law?

I have already discussed this issue with the citys authorities. In the discussion, I raised the issue of the need for strong co-ordination between the knights and the other official forces in the city, including the criminal police, the traffic police and the local police. Im confident that with strong co-ordination between these forces, the knights will not be vulnerable in their fight against social vices in the society.  VNSHA NOI  A cooperation agreement on child drowning prevention has been signed between the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) and the Bloomberg philanthropy.

Speaking at the signing ceremony on Friday afternoon, MOLISA Deputy Minister Nguyen Thi Ha said that in the period of 2010-13, about 2,800 children drowned every year. The number of child drowning cases decreased in the period of 2015-17, with about 2,000 cases annually.

However, the number remains high and drowning is the biggest cause of fatalities in children. Studies show that Vietnamese children drowning at rates higher than in other Southeast Asian countries and eight times higher than in developed countries, said Ha.

Families and communitys awareness of the issue was limited, she said. Supervision of children, especially in rural and poor remote areas, is often limited as they play outside.

Localities lack swimming teachers and infrastructure for teaching the skill, so children dont know how to be safe near water and their surroundings contain many latent risks.

Deputy Minister Ha said that during the past few years, different organisations such as the World Health Organisation and the Bloomberg philanthropy have actively supported Viet Nam in preventing child drowning. Ha expressed her belief that in the future, with help from the organisations, child drowning prevention projects will be implemented effectively in different provinces and cities.

Kelly Larson, director of the public health programme under the Bloomberg philanthropy, said that since 2012, the philanthropy had assisted child drowning prevention programmes in Bangladesh and Philippines.

The programmes have been conducted well in the two countries over the past five years.

Larson said she hopes that with cooperation between MOLISA and the Bloomberg, the work of child drowning prevention would achieve effective results.  VNSHCM CITY  Current and former HCM City leaders and more than 2,000 Buddhist believers, monks and nuns on Sunday participated in a commemoration service for Bodhisattva Thich Quang uc, who set himself on fire 55 years ago to protest the repression of Buddhists by the US-backed Sai Gon administration.

The memorial service, organised at the Viet Nam Quoc Tu Pagoda in District 10 by the HCM City chapter of the Viet Nam Buddhist Sangha (VBS), was also attended by representatives from the Party Central Committees Commission for Mass Mobilisation, Government Committee for Religious Affairs, HCM City Party Committee and HCM Citys Viet Nam Fatherland Front Committee.

Addressing the event, the Most Venerable Thich Tri Quang, vice chairman of the VBS Executive Board, said that Thich Quang ucs self-immolation sparked a sense of national solidarity among Buddhist sects across the country and helped the fight for religious equality and freedom to succeed in 1963.

Quang, who is also head of the municipal Buddhist Sangha Executive Board, said Thich Quang ucs actions touched the hearts of lovers of peace, freedom and independence around the world.

On this occaion, an exhibition about the life and career of the Bodhisattva Thich Quang uc, was opened, displaying many photos, relics, costumes and his heart icon at the pagoda.

The Most Venerable Thich Quang uc, whose lay name was Lam Van Tuc, was born in 1897 in a small village in the central province of Khanh Hoa.

In 1963, after four years of increased oppression by the Diem administration towards Buddhist priests and the Buddhist community, he decided to sacrifice himself to highlight Buddhist demands for religious equality in southern Viet Nam.

On June 11, 1963, when a procession of over 800 Buddhist monks, nuns and followers arrived at the intersection of Phan inh Phung boulevard (now Nguyen inh Chieu Street) and Le Van Duyet Street (now Cach Mang Thang Tam Street), Thich Quang uc soaked himself in petrol, struck a match and set himself on fire.

His body was consumed, and all that remained was his heart. Later when the Buddhist community tried to cremate his heart it remained intact. It was placed in the Reserve Bank of Viet Nam and became the symbol of a Holy Heart.

The immortal heart of the Bodhisattva Thich Quang uc will be taken to the Viet Nam Quoc Tu Pagoda.

Millions all over the globe saw his self-sacrifice, making the Bodhisattva Thich Quang uc a world-famous figure.

Before that day in 1963, he left a letter to the government. The core of his letter was a plea for all Buddhist believers, monks, nuns and laypeople to unite and strive for the preservation of Buddhism.  VNSWASHINGTON  Two Vietnamese tourists were found stabbed to death in their room at the Circus Circus Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip early Friday morning (US time).

The Viet Nam Embassy in the US in Washington, DC, announced that the two victims are Nghia Boi Sang, a 39-year-old woman and Nguyen Le Ba Khuong, a 30-year-old man. The couples were part of a tour group of Trieu Hao Tourism Company. Sang is the company director and Khuong is an employee of the company.

The Embassy has been working with Las Vegas police to investigate the case. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Lieutenant Ray Spencer told reporters late Friday that their initial processing of the room helped them to confirm that the deaths were definitely a double homicide.

The Embassy also worked with relevant agencies to complete visa procedures for the victims family members to go to the US and take the victims bodies to Viet Nam.

"They were scheduled to leave Monday before heading back to Viet Nam.

"We are going to be scouring video for the next several hours.

"It is a very isolated incident, it is only in one room that we believe occurred around 2am.



The spokesman said: "On June 1, 2018 at about 4:04 pm Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers were dispatched to a hotel located at 2880 South Las Vegas Boulevard to investigate a report of two people found deceased in one of the guest rooms. "Arriving officers located an adult male and adult female inside one of the rooms deceased from apparent stab wounds. The investigation initiated by the LVMPD Homicide Section indicated the two people were tourists from outside of the country and had arrived the day before as part of a tour group. "The victims did not show up for a tour that was scheduled for the morning of June 1, and one of the members of the tour group was concerned when the victims could not be contacted throughout the day. "The concerned party asked for a welfare check later that afternoon, and when security officers entered the room they discovered the victims deceased and contacted police. The identity of the victims, as well as the cause and manner of death, will be released by the Clark County Coroners Office. "As of this release, no suspect or suspects have been identified and the motive is unknown."  VNS In a press release issued by the Los Vegas Police Department on Saturday, a spokesman said officers were called to the hotel where they found the bodies of a man and a woman. "They do not speak English and that is creating a major challenge for us as far as interviewing them (other tourists) and that's we are doing now is trying to find other law enforcement to try and interview them."

Speaking to reporters outside the hotel, Lt. Ray Spencer said: "Both victims are Vietnamese tourists who are here as part of a tour group. They came in from Los Angeles and were scheduled to stay two nights here in Las Vegas.HCM CITY  The 13th Hoa phuong o (Red Flamboyant) summer campaign officially began on June 3 in HCM City with thousands of students taking part in enriching activities, meeting new friends and learning valuable experiences.

The campaign activities include cleaning the city, learning various skills and taking part in charitable activities for the disadvantaged, all of which help students experience the real world and learn life skills.

More than 40,000 HCM City students and teachers are taking part in the annual campaign.

Nguyen Tat Toan, member of the Executive Committee of Hoa phuong o, said: The campaign aims to enrich the lives of students and teachers, promote the spirit of volunteering, and provide students with opportunities to learn life skills and become more mature.

The opening event at District 1s HCM City Youth Culture House attracted around 3,000 students and young teachers from 24 districts in HCM City.

There were booths for science projects, calligraphy lessons, traditional music, and presentations on life skills such as self-defence and sexual health, all of which were crowded with students eager to learn new things.

Some members of the campaign also spent Sunday morning cleaning the streets off rubbish and inappropriately placed posters in several districts.

Toan said that this year the campaign would have more activities for disadvantaged children, visits to poor households, and fundraising events.

The campaign will also organise fairs, field trips, presentations and other events to help students learn about science, robots, foreign languages, safety skills and other everyday skills.

This year the campaign aims to attract an additional 5,000 members.

Nguyen Quynh Anh, a 10th grader from Tran ai Nghia High School for the Gifted, said: I joined the campaign this year because I can take part in many great activities like helping kids and gain experiences. And this is also a great opportunity to hang out with my peers from other schools.

I have taken part in the campaign for three years and its activities such as helping poor people and children and learning about our history. My communication skills have improved and I am not as shy as before. said Pham Le Gia Khiem, a 12th grader from Hoang Hoa Tham High School.

Thai Thanh Thanh, a 10th grader from Binh Phu High School, said: We had a presentation on self-defence, which was very persuasive and can help us protect ourselves against assailants. The campaigns other activities also help me broaden my perspective and network, as well as provide me with knowledge, public speaking skills and other skills, which can be useful for my future career in media.  VNSby o Phuong Linh

After the country got out of the war and started its economic recovery and development, employment became one of the top concerns, and stability was the best quality of any job.

At that time, our grandparents and parents found it easy to be happy with a peaceful life and a simple and stable job, such as working for a State-owned enterprise, or working a traditional craft of the family. They could spend their life with the assurance that the fewer changes, the better jobs. That was why a stable job used to be an essential criterion for many of the older generations.

Thanks to them, the country gradually recovered its energy and grew.

After several decades, young generations are now the beneficiary of those previous efforts. They have a better foundation in terms of education, and a wider range of job opportunities. Changes in the economy, the property market, and the availability of opportunities have gradually changed their mindset, which is now at odds with that of the older generations.

I dont think that I can settle with just one job for my entire life like my parents did," Nguyen Ngoc Huong, a marketing specialist, said.

Before they could do a single task for a particular organization or agency throughout their whole life, but now we, the young generation, can change jobs and companies in about 10 years of youth. It is very normal, Huong added.

Huongs opinion is somewhat related to an issue recently mentioned by Ha Chi, a hot social media celebrity, who wrote: Quit your job now, dont be scared, suggesting that people are better off leaving a job that they dont like, rather than perpetually worrying about unemployment or losing the fruits of their efforts.

If the cake is not tasty any longer, please put it down. I respect my taste and my stomach. If a relationship does not work, please leave. I respect my feelings and the time of both sides. I dont do what I dont like. I dont take what I dont want. If someone can do it, he or she will do it better than me. I will give the chance to him or her. (from Ha Chis Facebook wall).

From comments such as Ha Chis, we can see that for the younger generations, stability is no longer an essential component of a job. Instead, they are self-motivated to follow their own values, support individualism, and be ready for the changing pace of society.

That is why the young generations now feel more self-confident and find it easier to take on new jobs, and change careers. They have more conditions to experience different jobs and enjoy life, and this is something totally new to the older generations.

Of course, big companies have more chances to make profit," Tran Hoai Nam, an electrician, said. "Despite this, please remember that now, or in a year, many companies may have shut down. It brings about both opportunities and risks. We can find jobs easily and we can lose them easily as well.

However, we should understand that leaving a job should be decided after due consideration, He added.

Just like Nam, Ha Chi also emphasized: Ending a relationship, leaving a job or even stopping dating someone might cause losses for both sides. The company will lose a human resource, and the amount of investment they have made on the personnel. The workers will lose a job, salary, and some relationships. So deciding whether to leave or stay in a job should be a matter of concern.

However, the core motivator for the decision on continuing working must never be stability above all else.

We work eight hours a day, sleep eight hours a day, and the remaining eight hours are for other activities. If we just need to survive, we will have a big loss because we trade one-third of our life for immeasurable safety in the other one-third of our time. Thus, to maximize the value of time, I have to feel alive in the eight working hours of a day. So, I have to choose a job that I feel good about. Ha Chi said.

With open-mindedness, a sense of freedom, and self-confidence, Huong and Nam and other people dont forget to emphasize that they, as young people, need to determine what their career is instead of clinging on a certain job and having no idea about the future. For them, improving themselves day by day and developing a solid foundation in terms of knowledge and skills to follow their dream is much more significant than worrying about leaving or staying in a job.

People who do not know about their capacity, strengths, and independence are often scared. So learning about yourself and believing in yourself is an optimal task. It helps you with building the courage to leave a safe yet exhaustingly boring job for another better one. Please keep going and dont fear for changes. Huong concluded. VNSBy Bill Hughes May. 31, 2018 | 05:18 PM | PADUCAH, KY

Law enforcement officers spoke to some people Wednesday night about their target shooting after several people reported explosions on Paducah's south side.According to Captain Matt Carter of the McCracken County Sheriff's Department, officers responded to the Lydon Road area after callers reported hearing "booms," and were alarmed.Deputies found a couple of people who were target shooting in a semi-secluded area, and Carter said, "they were shooting in a safe direction and they had permission to be on the property." No charges were filed.The shooters were using explosive targets that are typically called Tannerite, using a type of binary explosive. They are pre-packaged products consisting of two separate components, usually an oxidizer like ammonium nitrate and a fuel such as aluminum or another metal. After the components are mixed, they are still relatively stable - fuses or electricity have no effect - but high-velocity impact will trigger the explosion. Their use is perfectly legal.Carter said the shooters weren't intending to be a nuisance, and that kind of story is familiar to officers. As far as he knows, there haven't been repeated calls for explosions in the same area over the past few years.He said that in McCracken County, fewer areas are what he would call secluded, so while the use of exploding targets is perfectly legal, he encourages people to consider their neighbors, too."Ensuring that it's an acceptable time of day would be number one, and number two would be knowing your background (for where bullets could go if they miss the target) and do it in a secluded area if you can," Carter said.He added that if shooters are using explosive targets, it's likely that they will see an officer."They can just almost be guaranteed that we're gonna get a call, and certainly don't fault or blame the citizen for calling. In today's world in which we live, we ask people all the time, 'if you see something suspicious or hear something suspicious, call us,' so they're doing exactly what we're asking them to do, and we're fulfilling our role by going to check it out," Carter said.

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16 (23) Jan 15 (30) Jan 14 (20) Jan 13 (18) Jan 12 (24) Jan 11 (11) Jan 10 (23) Jan 09 (22) Jan 08 (17) Jan 07 (17) Jan 06 (9) Jan 05 (18) Jan 04 (15) Jan 03 (19) Jan 02 (14) Jan 01 (6) Dec 31 (12) Dec 30 (4) Dec 29 (15) Dec 28 (11) Dec 27 (7) Dec 26 (10) Dec 25 (16) Dec 24 (13) Dec 23 (16) Dec 22 (11) Dec 21 (26) Dec 20 (28) Dec 19 (14) Dec 18 (25) Dec 17 (23) Dec 16 (19) Dec 15 (22) Dec 14 (38) Dec 13 (26) Dec 12 (25) Dec 11 (27) Dec 10 (31) Dec 09 (15) Dec 08 (30) Dec 07 (31) Dec 06 (27) Dec 05 (38) Dec 04 (25) Dec 03 (27) Dec 02 (15) Dec 01 (36) Nov 30 (23) Nov 29 (17) Nov 28 (23) Nov 27 (13) Nov 26 (16) Nov 25 (14) Nov 24 (18) Nov 23 (21) Nov 22 (21) Nov 21 (24) Nov 20 (20) Nov 19 (23) Nov 18 (17) Nov 17 (17) Nov 16 (34) Nov 15 (25) Nov 14 (17) Nov 13 (21) Nov 12 (18) Nov 11 (9) Nov 10 (15) Nov 09 (9) Nov 08 (9) Nov 07 (12) Nov 06 (8) Nov 05 (4) Oct 29 (1) Oct 01 (1) Jul 29 (1) May 11 (1) Jul 11 (1)Knocked off line for most of the day and it all came from the fearless USA

It is okay.I needed a break anyway, therefore, thanks for most of the day off. I enjoyed it

Simply put; The DHS (Department of Homeland Security) decided to apply a multi front press on WtR. I just gave okay to a complete shut the site down after the realization that nothing can be done about it. 12 hours later they stopped

IPAddress: 216.81.94.73  216.81.94.75 Hostname: sbcp6.dhs.gov Country: US AS Name: DHSINETNOC  DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY,US Network: 216.81.88.0/21 (216.81.88.0-216.81.95.255) 216.81.96.0

michael.mather@cbp.dhs.gov, vincent.zamora@uscis.dhs.gov, scott.s.young.2@uscis.dhs.gov, jennifer.m.fagerman@cbp.dhs.gov, barbara.a.hart@ice.dhs.gov, dnsbl1.dnsbl.borderware.com, dnsbl2.dnsbl.borderware.com, dnsbl3.dnsbl.borderware.com, dul.dnsbl.borderware.com and many more. Seen many of these before

Reverse DNS: sbcp6.dhs.gov.

ISP Location: Quantico, Virginia, United States

ISP: Department Of Homeland Security

Hmm.the owner of the attacking DNS is.

https://www.findip-address.com/216.81.94.73/whois

OrgName: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

OrgId: DHS-37

Address: US Customs and Border Protection

Address: Office of Information and Technology

Address: Ronald Reagan Building

Address: Room 3.5F

Address: 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue

City: Washington

StateProv: DC

PostalCode: 20229

Country: US

Merry Christmas

This link below is for you to look at to track attacking moments in life, if you have a website and if you are not loved by the USA

https://db-ip.com/all/216.81.94 It is a list of DHS IP addresses

Have a nice day, for I sure will

WtRCHICO, Calif. - The Chico Police Department arrested four people on Friday evening after authorities issued a search warrant at a home in the neighborhood of the Avenues.

According to Chico police, officers were sent to 226 W. 11th Ave. at 6:30 p.m. where they found two people attempting to flee from the residence, but were caught a short time later.

At the home, authorities said they found 1  ounce of methamphetamine in the possession of Armand Baptiste, 56, of Chico as well as Sarah Canter, 32, of Chico.

The two other suspects Rolando Alaniz, 40, of Chico and Thomas Juanarena, 60, of Chico, had warrants ranging from misdemeanor to assault with a deadly weapon.

All but Juanarena were booked into the Butte County Jail on various charges.Get AfricaFocus Bulletin by e-mail! Format for print or mobile West Africa/Global: Tax Evasion without Borders AfricaFocus Bulletin

June 4, 2018 (180604)

(Reposted from sources cited below) Editor's Note "On paper, the company that engineered and built the [$50 million mineral sands] processing plant [in Senegal] was SNC Lavalin-Mauritius Ltd, a local division of SNC Lavalin [Canada]. In reality, SNC Lavalin-Mauritius wasnt involved. It was a shell, created for the specific purpose of helping the engineering giant avoid tax payments. The company had no construction equipment and no office of its own. It operated from inside the Mauritius office of the offshoring law firm Appleby, which helped SNCLavalin create the shell company." - West Africa Leaks This case, in which a Canadian company evaded an estimated $8.9 million in taxes that would have been due to the Senegalese government, through a shell company based in Mauritius, is only one example from the West Africa Leaks series from the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) just released in late May. ICIJ worked with 13 local journalists in 11 West African countries for the six-month secret investigation, combining on-the-spot investigative journalism with ICIJ's vast database of leaks previously reported in the Panama Papers and Paradise Papers investigation. These and other similar cases resulting in losses to tax revenues of both developing and developed countries are often defined and defended by multinational companies and their defenders as simply "tax avoidance" (that is, making clever use of existing laws) rather than "tax evasion" (clearly illegal actions). But this ignores the often significant ambiguity in what is "legal" as well as the role of special interests in both writing and interpreting the laws and regulations. In fact, there is a vast system of interlocked law firms, accounting firms, complicit governments, corrupt individuals, and large companies that works systematically to facilitate transactions that are at least morally and ethically questionable and unfair, even when the legal case against them may be difficult to prove. For a excellent recent update on why tax avoidance by multinational companies as well as tax invasion should be considered "illicit financial flows," see the May 12, 2018 article by Sol Picciotto (http://tinyurl.com/ycvsqbda). A more extensive blog post by the same author is available at http://tinyurl.com/y96xuldk This AfricaFocus Bulletin contains excerpts from two articles in the ICIJ West Africa Leaks series, one an overview of the 11-country investigation and the other a case study of the construction project in Senegal cited above. The full series is available on-line at https://www.icij.org/investigations/west-africa-leaks/ For a map of West Africa with a full list of stories on each country included, many in French, go to http://tinyurl.com/y9nuhhel For previous AfricaFocus Bulletins on tax evasion and related issues, visit http://www.africafocus.org/intro-iff.php For previous Bulletins on West Africa, visit http://www.africafocus.org/west.php General Data Protection Regulation AfricaFocus is in compliance with the new European Union General Data Protection Regulation, and has updated its privacy notice on-line to provide a more detailed explanation. Data collected by AfricaFocus are used exclusively to manage and to improve its information services to its readers.

See http://www.africafocus.org/privacy.php for more detail. At the end of this Bulletin, as has always been the case for AfricaFocus, there is a link you can use to unsubscribe from receiving these Bulletins. In addition to unsubscribing, you also have the right to request any data kept by AfricaFocus and/or to request permanent deletion of that data. ++++++++++++++++++++++end editor's note+++++++++++++++++ How Officials, Businesses And Traffickers Hide Billions From Cash-Starved Governments Offshore International Consortium of Investigative Journalists May 22, 2018 https://www.icij.org/investigations/west-africa-leaks/ Reporting by Will Fitzgibbon Contributors to this story: Moussa Aksar and Alloycious David [Note: excerpts only. The full text of this overview article, with embedded links and links to other specific country cases, is available at http://tinyurl.com/yb42huob Government officials, arms merchants and corporations have spirited away millions of dollars from destitute West African nations through offshore tax havens, an investigation by journalists from the region and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has found. Offshore companies were set up for a global engineering firm that avoided paying millions in taxes to Senegal, one of the worlds poorest countries; for a littleknown entrepreneur who won a contract to build West Africas largest slaughterhouse and for a well-connected arms trafficker from Chad. In several cases, the companies, as well as the companies transactions and offshore bank accounts, were not declared or are only now being revealed in more detail. The findings were drawn from a collection of almost 30 million documents, representing several leaked financial records obtained by and shared with ICIJ since 2012. From Cape Verdes islands of white-sand beaches and rocky volcanoes to Nigers vast deserts, West African countries are plundered by companies and individuals, while governments do little to stem the flow. West Africa accounts for more than one-third of an estimated $50 billion that leaves the continent untraced or untaxed each year, according to the United Nations. Overall, a combination of corruption, drug, human and weapons trafficking and other furtive import and export activities strip Africa of three to 10 times as much as it receives in foreign aid. For poor regions of the world like West Africa, the use of shell companies, tax evasion, aggressive tax planning, tax havens and offshore bank accounts can be dramatic in the deprivation and suffering it creates, said Brigitte Alepin, professor of taxation at the Universite du Quebec. These countries are in need of public finances, and these losses of tax revenues affect the basic services they can offer to their citizens. The money reappears in safe deposit boxes in European banks, as equity in high-rise New York condos and smooth limestone Parisian apartment buildings, far from the collapsing hospitals and other buildings of West Africa. It also fills wealthy investors pockets. ICIJ partnered with 13 journalists on West Africa Leaks to investigate high-profile individuals and powerful corporations in the region. The investigation included journalists from six countries where reporters hadnt before examined files pertaining to the individuals and businesses. The source material is millions of files that make up ICIJs four offshore databases: Offshore Leaks, Swiss Leaks, Panama Papers and Paradise Papers. Grande Cote mineral sands refinery on the coast of Senegal. Canadian construction company evaded an estimated $8.9 million in taxes by using a shell company in Mauritius for its conttract. The leaked records include the secretive Persian Gulf real estate plans of a candidate in this years Mali presidential election; the Swiss bank account of an intimate friend of Togos hereditary dictatorship who manages the countrys overseas real estate; and a Seychelles foundation directed by the childhood friend of Liberias Nobel Peace Prize-winning former president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Often the offshore documents paint only a partial picture of the secretive financial affairs of prominent and wealthy West African individuals and businesses. In several cases, emails, spreadsheets and contracts dont explain why a shell company was created or how much money was held in a far-flung offshore bank account. Yet the files provide rare insights about untouchable potentates who have long benefited from weak tax enforcement and supine courts in countries that struggle to hold them to account. While several European nations have recovered small fortunes hidden offshore by citizens and companies exposed by previous ICIJ leaks, no African country has confirmed recovering a cent after previous revelations from these offshore troves. Ousmane Sonko, a former Senegalese tax inspector who is now a member of parliament, said many West African tax authorities are doubly plagued: They dont have the means to investigate complex foreign transactions, and, when investigators do make headway, politicians find ways to torpedo their small successes. Sonko said the situation is made worse by general ignorance of the importance of corporate tax  or any tax  to society. When people dont even understand what taxes are, acting on something like the Paradise Papers is challenging, Sonko said. If you talk about tax havens in some countries in Africa, people will look at you and think youre insane. In the Central African country of Chad, David Abtour, who married the sister of an ex-wife of President Idriss Deby, set up two companies after becoming involved in a helicopter deal with Chads armed forces. Abtour teamed up with the air force chief of staff to help Chad buy Russian helicopters in 2006, French journalist Jacques-Marie Bougret reported. It was the beginning of a lucrative association between Chads leaders and Abtour. Chad, which has been identified as one of the worlds 10 least developed countries, was at the time fighting Sudanese-backed rebel groups. In April 2006, rebels and government forces clashed close to Chads National Assembly palace in fighting that killed hundreds. Chads army crushed the rebels, who had launched the attack from Sudans Darfur region, with tanks and attack helicopters  weaponry that proved critical in the scrappy, small-scale conflict. At the time, Chad was declared the most highly corrupt country in Transparency Internationals global corruption rankings. Debys government starved schools, roads and hospitals while lavishing millions of dollars on the military. Politicians and rebels quarreled over a billion-dollar tax windfall from Chads oil boom, exacerbating instability. Chadians are watching to see who will try to take the money, and how, a New York Times guest columnist wrote in 2007. From operating bases in Chad, Dubai and Paris, Abtour and his contacts provided Chad with ammunition in 2007, according to Bougret. Abtour fell out of favor in 2008, Bougret reported, after Chads prime minister replaced the head of defense. The next year, Abtour set up two shell companies in Panama, according to the Panama Papers. One company, Bickwall Holdings Inc., had a bank account in Switzerland with HSBC Private Bank. The other, Tarita Management Corp., used UBS. In both cases, the companies were set up to issue shares to Abtour in a way that kept his identity concealed. Panamanian lawyers at Mossack Fonseca held no information on the activities of the two companies, which were closed in 2013. Abtour did not reply to requests for comment. Countries involved in West Africa Leaks Summary list (not complete) compiled by AfricaFocus Bulletin. In West Africa Outside West Africa Senegal Mauritius, Canada, UK, France, and Australia Senegal Switzerland, France, USA, and Zimbabwe Togo Switzerland Niger British Virgin Islands, Australia, Saudi Arabia Liberia Russia, Seychelles, Belgium Mali Seychelles, Panama, Dubai Ghana USA, UK, Cayman Islands, Cyprus, Luxembourg Burkina Faso Luxembourg, Seychelles, Panama Cape Verde Switzerland, Italy Benin France, Panama, Monaco Cote d'Ivoire Bahamas and Panama Cote d'Ivoire Panama, Bahamas, and UK Nigeria USA (Chevron), Bermuda, Panama In Niger, emails and contracts from ICIJs Offshore Leaks investigation show, a little-known New Zealand operator signed a $31.8 million contract with officials to build West Africas most modern refrigerated slaughterhouse. Livestock is central to Nigers culture and accounts for 14 percent of all goods and services produced. The slaughterhouse was started but not completed. Nine years, three court cases and one coup detat later, it is unclear how much Niger paid for the nonexistent slaughterhouse, why an obscure offshore company won the regions most lucrative livestock-related deal and whether any of the earnings were ever taxed. Sign inside the office of L'Evenement, where ICIJ member Moussa Aksar is editor in chief. According to Nigers prime minister at the time, Seyni Oumarou, the company, Agriculture Africa, and the operator, Bryan Rowe, were chosen for their expertise and know-how and global reputation. Never heard of them, said professor David Love, a slaughterhouse management and construction expert who works with international organizations and national governments, including in Africa. Rowe set up seven companies in the British Virgin Islands, including Agriculture Africa Ltd., according to the documents, leaked from the British Virgin Islands. Agriculture Africa Ltd. was created in February 2009, and he signed the contract two months later. Rowe, whose background is primarily in emerging market telecommunications, told ICIJ that only Agriculture Africa and Global Development Holdings International Ltd. became operational. Rowe said that progress on the slaughterhouse was on schedule until a military junta overthrew the government in February 2010. Construction stopped. The new leaders refused to pay Agriculture Africas bills for work completed since 2009, Rowe said. He declined to say how much the company had been paid, citing confidentiality. Nor did he explain why he chose to create the companies offshore. Rowe said that he had won three court cases in Niger seeking payment for work completed to date but that the judgments had not been enforced. The Niger government did not respond to questions about the slaughterhouse. Lack of responsiveness was one of myriad challenges faced by reporters during the five-month West Africa Leaks project. Recurrent, lengthy and erratic power and internet outages hobble reporting in many countries in West Africa. Nigeria averages nearly 33 blackouts a month, many lasting eight hours or more. Another problem is the limited access to even the most benign documents or communications, and government agencies and politicians  even presidential candidates  regularly refuse to comment. Several ICIJ partners felt pressure to halt publication of their findings from business leaders who threatened to withdraw newspaper advertising. Reporters also struggled with unreliable, essential equipment to do their jobs. Two reporters worked on computers whose malfunctions blacked out at least one-third of their screens. ICIJ partnered with the Norbert Zongo Cell for Investigative Journalism in West Africa (CENOZO), a West African nonprofit that supports regional collaborations and receives funding from philanthropist billionaire George Soros Open Society Initiative for West Africa. Despite the difficulties, reporters connected many West African power players to offshore accounts and companies. For instance, Liberias first female pharmacist, Clavenda Bright-Parker, was the sole shareholder and director of a Seychelles company, Greater Putu Foundation Ltd., according to Panama Papers documents. Bright-Parker went to elementary school with former Liberian president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. As teenagers, at the cinema one evening, Bright-Parker introduced the future president to her future husband and later took part in Johnson Sirleafs wedding as maid of honor. Bright-Parker was also a personal envoy of the president and was appointed chairwoman of Liberias medical regulatory agency. The Panama Papers do not describe the specific purpose of Greater Putu Foundation Ltd. or disclose whether the company had a bank account. Bright-Parkers offshore role in Greater Putu Foundation coincided with disagreements between a Canada-based company in charge of the Putu iron ore mine and Liberias government. Canadas Mano River Resources signed a deal to develop the mine in 2005 and later sold its interest to the Russian global steel and mining company Severstal. Residents and members of parliament have long complained that the owners of the mine did not deliver on promises for development. Mano River Resources co-founder, Guy Pas, did not describe Bright-Parkers work in detail but told ICIJ in an email that Bright-Parker came recommended to take up this role with the Putu mine to defend its interest at the highest level against ministerial pressure to have a larger mining company take over the project. Dealing with the Ministry was sometimes complicated, Pas wrote, adding that government officials never asked for money. Reached by telephone, Bright-Parker said she had no knowledge of the Seychelles company and asked reporters to call back for more details. She did not respond to further calls or to emailed questions. Johnson Sirleaf said she was not aware of Greater Putu Foundation Ltd. and never discussed the Putu mine with her friend. Other West African findings from the offshore files examined by reporters highlight techniques that profitable foreign companies use to reduce tax payments that could otherwise be owed. Canadas SNC-Lavalin, one of the worlds largest construction firms, benefited from a controversial treaty to avoid paying up to $8.9 million in taxes to Senegal. ... [see separate article below] One Companys Tax Heaven Is Senegals Tax Hell A lopsided tax treaty between Mauritius and Senegal means, with the right paper work, companies working in Senegal can avoid paying millions in taxes. International Consortium of Investigative Journalists May 22, 2018 https://www.icij.org/investigations/west-africa-leaks/ Reporting by Will Fitzgibbon Contributors to this story: Momar Niang [Note: excerpts only. Full text of this story, with additional embedded links, available at http://tinyurl.com/y7dg7jbq When one of the worlds largest engineering companies scored a $50 million deal to build a processing plant in Senegal, one of the worlds poorest countries, it looked to a tiny Indian Ocean island for help. That island, Mauritius, has an established banking system, a level of political stability unusual across Africa and a well-trained workforce. It is also a renowned tax haven. And Mauritius offered engineering company SNC-Lavalin a significant benefit: a lopsided treaty signed with Senegal that, with the right paperwork, made it easy for the Canadian firm to avoid up to $8.9 million in taxes. That lost revenue is no small matter in Senegal, a country where nearly half of the population lives in poverty, where 5 percent of newborns die and where one in six children are stunted by years of poor nutrition. The forgone tax would have covered half the cost of running Senegals largest public hospital for a year. The Senegal-Mauritius treaty, concluded in 2004, is one among scores of agreements that keep billions of dollars in tax revenue every year from reaching poor African and Asian countries. That was never the intention. Countries usually sign treaties to avoid taxing a companys income twice, once in each country. Developing countries, in particular, have signed agreements in the hope that clarifying taxes paid by multinationals would encourage investment and jobs in countries that multibillion dollar operations might otherwise deem too risky. Although originally hailed as deals that would benefit both sides of the agreements, a chorus of critics increasingly denounces treaties between wealthier and developing countries, particularly in Africa, as harmful to nations like Senegal. Senegal is in West Africa, a poor region in one of the worlds most impoverished continents. While parts of the capital, Dakar, teem with creperies and upscale seaside fish restaurants, most of the countryside remains trapped in poverty. In remote thatched-roof villages on Senegals lush coast, just 2 percent of the residents receive piped water provided by public infrastructure. In 2011, century-old Montreal company SNC-Lavalin signed a deal to design and build the $50 million processing plant for the Grande Cote mineral sands mine. At the time, the project appeared to represent great opportunity for Senegal. The mine is now the largest operation of its kind in the world. It extracts mineralladen sands from 60 miles of beach along Senegals coastline. The sand yields, among other minerals, finely grained zircon, which is used in the United States, Norway and beyond as a glaze that brightens ceramic kitchen tiles, toilets and sinks. It also yields an ingredient in titanium dioxide, a whitener used in toothpaste. But the mine wasnt universally welcomed. Local tensions began to flare in 2012 during construction of the processing plant. At least seven villages were forced to make way for the project. Vegetable farmers and other residents complained of footdragging resettlement schemes that displaced them from more-fertile to less-fertile land. In June 2017, members of Senegals parliament issued a report  obtained by International Consortium of Investigative Journalists  that faulted Grande Cote on several fronts. In particular, the report criticized the lack of diverse compensation options for those who were resettled. On paper, the company that engineered and built the processing plant was SNC LavalinMauritius Ltd, a local division of SNC Lavalin. In reality, SNC Lavalin-Mauritius wasnt involved. It was a shell, created for the specific purpose of helping the engineering giant avoid tax payments. The company had no construction equipment and no office of its own. It operated from inside the Mauritius office of the offshoring law firm Appleby, which helped SNC-Lavalin create the shell company. The companys true nature as a conduit rather than as a contractor is revealed in emails, invoices, financial statements and bank statements from the Paradise Papers, a trove of 13.4 million documents, most from Appleby, which specializes in administering tax-shelter companies. SNC-Lavalins involvement with the mine ended when it finished building the processing plant. A French-Australian consortium owns most of the operation, and the government of Senegal holds a 10 percent stake. By 2012, when almost all the work on the Senegalese plant was done, Grande Cote had paid $44.7 million in fees to SNC-Lavalin Mauritius, according to the companys 2012 financial statements and 24 invoices. Senegals taxes disappear Experts estimate that Senegal could have missed out on $8.9 million in taxes as a result of the 2002 tax treaty between Senegal and Mauritius. Under the treaty, companies like SNC-Lavalin with a subsidiary company in Mauritius can avoid Senegals usual 20 percent tax on the kind of technical service fees paid to SNC-Lavalin. The final tax rate in some cases can be reduced to zero. Senegal is one of only two continental African countries with a Mauritius treaty with a zero percent tax rate. SNC-Lavalin insists that it did not use the Mauritius company, SNC Lavalin Mauritius Ltd., with the main goal of reducing its taxes. Its reasons for choosing the tax haven, it said, instead included low political risk, a bilingual workforce, good banks and facility for doing business in Africa. It could have reduced its taxes in the same way by billing for services from Canada under a treaty signed with Senegal, the company told ICIJ. Experts consulted by ICIJ said it was unclear if the Canada treaty could have delivered the same tax benefits to the company. Senegal potentially could tax fees under the treaty with Canada, said Prof. Vern Krishna from the University of Ottawa who is the managing editor of the legal publication Canadas Tax Treaties. He added that Senegals ability to tax would be consistent with the United Nations philosophy of encouraging developing countries to tax income as soon as possible. A spokesman for Senegals tax office said it signed the treaty in the hope of a winwin situation but now feels it is unbalanced in Mauritius favor and allows companies to set up in Mauritius for treaty benefits only. It is renegotiating Mauritius and waiting for the islands response. Failing that, the spokesman said, Senegal may withdraw from the treaty  pure and simple. SNC-Lavalin said it was entitled to rely on the Mauritius-Senegal Tax Treaty similar to any other company based in Mauritius. But experts say that tax treaties of the kind that SNC-Lavalin used to avoid paying millions to Senegal should be a thing of the past. You are legalizing the earning stripping-out of the country, said Alexander Ezenagu, a tax researcher at McGill University. Its a redesign of neocolonialism, Ezenagu said, who is Nigerian. In the 1800s, in the 1900s, they came with violence. Now, they come with sophisticated accounting systems and the lure of investment. But no country needs investment if its not going to be rewarded. Around the world, civil society, academics and members of parliament have criticized many of the estimated 500-plus tax treaties signed between developed and developing countries. While the overall value of losses is not known, the International Monetary Fund estimated that U.S. tax treaties cut the revenue of less developed countries by $1.6 billion in 2010. Dutch nonprofit SOMO estimated that developing countries lost more than $1 billion in 2011 alone through tax treaties signed with the Netherlands. In response to fears of inequitable deals, countries such as Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia and Mongolia have cancelled or renegotiated some of their tax treaties. Senegal and Mauritius present a sharp contrast. While a third of Senegals population lives in poverty, Mauritius is considered Africas second-most-developed country and one of its richest. When the two nations signed the agreement, officials said it would spur development in both by encouraging investment in Senegal by Mauritius. Increasingly, however, critics say the agreement has allowed foreign companies to bypass Senegals tax laws with shell companies in Mauritius or elsewhere. The companies created in Mauritius generally dont invest in Senegal, but they do provide huge tax savings to their parent companies, outside Africa, and deprive Senegal of badly needed tax revenue. Tax heaven or hell? A tax haven might be heaven for multinational companies to avoid taxes, but, for the country, its hell, said Ousmane Sonko, a former tax inspector who became a member of Senegals parliament in 2017 after running on a platform on tax fairness. Sonko is currently lobbying other members of parliament to reject a proposed treaty with another tax haven, Luxembourg. At the time when we should be talking about ending the tax treaty with Mauritius, Sonko said, they are instead talking about signing a new one with Luxembourg. Luxembourg is also well known for its creation of shell companies. ... AfricaFocus Bulletin is an independent electronic publication providing reposted commentary and analysis on African issues, with a particular focus on U.S. and international policies. AfricaFocus Bulletin is edited by William Minter. AfricaFocus Bulletin can be reached at africafocus@igc.org. Please write to this address to suggest material for inclusion. For more information about reposted material, please contact directly the original source mentioned. For a full archive and other resources, see http://www.africafocus.orghttps://www.aish.com/jw/me/Why-History-Still-Matters-The-1967-Six-Day-War.html

Without understanding what happened in the past, its impossible to grasp where we are today.

Mention history and it can trigger a roll of the eyes.

Add the Middle East to the equation and folks might start running for the hills, unwilling to get caught up in the seemingly bottomless pit of details and disputes.

But without an understanding of what happened in the past, its impossible to grasp where we are today  and where we are has profound relevance for the region and the world.

Fifty-one years ago this week, the Six-Day War broke out.

While some wars fade into obscurity, this one remains as relevant today as in 1967. Many of its core issues remain unresolved.

Politicians, diplomats, and journalists continue to grapple with the consequences of that war, but rarely consider, or perhaps are even unaware of, context. Yet without context, some critically important things may not make sense.

First, in June 1967, there was no state of Palestine. It didnt exist and never had. Its creation, proposed by the UN in 1947, was rejected by the Arab world because it also meant the establishment of a Jewish state alongside.

Second, the West Bank and eastern Jerusalem were in Jordanian hands. Violating solemn agreements, Jordan denied Jews access to their holiest places in eastern Jerusalem. To make matters still worse, they desecrated and destroyed many of those sites.

Meanwhile, the Gaza Strip was under Egyptian control, with harsh military rule imposed on local residents.

And the Golan Heights, which were regularly used to shell Israeli communities far below, belonged to Syria.

Third, the Arab world could have created a Palestinian state in the West Bank, eastern Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip any day of the week. They didnt. There wasnt even discussion about it. And Arab leaders, who today profess such attachment to eastern Jerusalem, rarely, if ever, visited. It was viewed as an Arab backwater.

Fourth, the 1967 boundary at the time of the war, so much in the news these days, was nothing more than an armistice line dating back to 1949  familiarly known as the Green Line. Thats after five Arab armies attacked Israel in 1948 with the aim of destroying the embryonic Jewish state. They failed. Armistice lines were drawn, but they werent formal borders. They couldnt be. The Arab world, even in defeat, refused to recognize Israels very right to exist.

Fifth, the PLO, which supported the war effort, was established in 1964, three years before the conflict erupted. Thats important because it was created with the goal of obliterating Israel. Remember that in 1964 the only settlements were Israel itself.

Sixth, in the weeks leading up to the Six-Day War, Egyptian and Syrian leaders repeatedly declared that war was coming and their objective was to wipe Israel off the map. There was no ambiguity in their blood-curdling announcements. Twenty-two years after the Holocaust, another enemy spoke about the extermination of Jews. The record is well-documented.

The record is equally clear that Israel, in the days leading up to the war, passed word to Jordan, via the UN and United States, urging Amman to stay out of any pending conflict. Jordans King Hussein ignored the Israeli plea and tied his fate to Egypt and Syria. His forces were defeated by Israel, and he lost control of the West Bank and eastern Jerusalem. He later acknowledged that he had made a terrible error in entering the war.

Seventh, Egypts President Gamal Abdel Nasser demanded that UN peacekeeping forces in the area, in place for the previous decade to prevent conflict, be removed. Shamefully, without even the courtesy of consulting Israel, the UN complied. That left no buffer between Arab armies being mobilized and deployed and Israeli forces in a country one-fiftieth, or two percent, the size of Egypt  and just nine miles wide at its narrowest point.

Eighth, Egypt blocked Israeli shipping lanes in the Red Sea, Israels only maritime access to trading routes with Asia and Africa. This step was understandably regarded as an act of war by Jerusalem. The United States spoke about joining with other countries to break the blockade, but, in the end, regrettably, did not act.

Ninth, France, which had been Israels principal arms supplier, announced a ban on the sale of weapons on the eve of the June war. That left Israel in potentially grave danger if a war were to drag on and require the resupply of arms. It was not until the next year that the U.S. stepped into the breach and sold vital weapons systems to Israel.

And finally, after winning the war of self-defense, Israel hoped that its newly-acquired territories, seized from Egypt, Jordan, and Syria, would be the basis for a land-for-peace accord. Feelers were sent out. The formal response came on September 1, 1967, when the Arab Summit Conference famously declared in Khartoum: No peace, no recognition, no negotiations with Israel.

More nos were to follow. Underscoring the point, in 2003, the Saudi Ambassador to the U.S. was quoted in The New Yorker as saying: It broke my heart that [PLO Chair] Arafat did not take the offer (of a two-state deal presented by Israel, with American support, in 2001). Since 1948, every time weve had something on the table, we say no. Then we say yes. When we say yes, its not on the table anymore. Then we have to deal with something less. Isnt it about time to say yes?

Today, there are those who wish to rewrite history.

They want the world to believe there was once a Palestinian state. There was not.

They want the world to believe there were fixed borders between that state and Israel. There was only an armistice line between Israel and the Jordanian-controlled West Bank and eastern Jerusalem.

The Six-Day War shows that the core issue is whether the Palestinians and larger Arab world accept the Jewish peoples right to a state of their own.

They want the world to believe the 1967 war was a bellicose act by Israel. It was an act of self-defense in the face of blood-curdling threats to vanquish the Jewish state, not to mention the maritime blockade of the Straits of Tiran, the abrupt withdrawal of UN peacekeeping forces, and the redeployment of Egyptian and Syrian troops. All wars have consequences. This one was no exception. But the aggressors have failed to take responsibility for the actions they instigated.

They want the world to believe post-1967 Israeli settlement-building is the key obstacle to peacemaking. The Six-Day War is proof positive that the core issue is, and always has been, whether the Palestinians and larger Arab world accept the Jewish peoples right to a state of their own. If so, all other contentious issues, however difficult, have possible solutions. But, alas, if not, all bets are off.

And they want the world to believe the Arab world had nothing against Jews per se, only Israel, yet trampled with abandon on sites of sacred meaning to the Jewish people.

In other words, when it comes to the Arab-Israeli conflict, dismissing the past as if it were a minor irritant at best, irrelevant at worst, wont work.

Can history move forward? Absolutely. Israels peace treaties with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994 powerfully prove the point. At the same time, though, the lessons of the Six-Day War illustrate just how tough and tortuous the path can be  and are sobering reminders that, yes, history does matter.Stanley Nelsons film shown to all Starbucks workers  both racist and non-racist

When Starbucks stores closed for racial training  half a day training adults not to be bigots  staff watched this video by Stanley Nelson. Called The Story of Access, here it is:

Starbucks explains:

On May 29, we closed 8,000 Starbucks stores in the United States for four hours  so 175,000 Starbucks partners could come together for a conversation and learning session on racial bias.

To recap: this is your employer talking about racial bias, the people who took you on. You are not the bosss partner. The companys policies are here. Staff dont need training to be sensitive to racism; they must adhere to the simple premise for any sound business: the black mans money is every bit as welcome as the female anti-Semites.

In 2015, Starbucks launched Race Together in the US. Designed to stimulate conversation, empathy and compassion among the races, partners were engaged to write Race Together on cups and talk about race with customers. Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz thought it would help bridge the racial and ethnic divides. You couldnt even grab a coffee without being challenged on racial differences. Dont you dare ignore difference and just get on with your life. Talk about race with your barista / therapist; think about race as you enjoy your sugary treat; wonder if your preference for black coffee or white coffee is deep-rooted in prejudice. There was no escape. Well, there was: you could avoid Starbucks are its preaching ninnies.

Starbucks continues in its latest drive to educate:

This was a foundational step in renewing Starbucks as a place where ALL people feel welcome.

Even the homeless? The derelict? If they can pay: yes. If not: no.

Starbucks partners shared life experiences, heard from others, listened to experts on bias and racial anxiety, reflecting on the realities of bias in our society and talking about how all of us can work together to create public spaces where everyone feels like they belong.

Its not a public space. Starbucks is a shop. Punters vote with their feet. If a shop worker fails to take the money from a customer because they are upset by their gender, skin, religion or clothing, then that worker is a fool and needs sacking. The only force for social good Starbucks need concern itself with is to make as much money as possible and thereby keep its staff employed. Screw this corporatising of morals. Just give us the coffee, take our money and give us the correct change.

Via: Stanley NelsonStory of Access

Anorak

Posted: 3rd, June 2018 | In: News, The Consumer Comment | TrackBack | PermalinkThis Blog is a digital journal for two cute pooches, Casey (A White Color Shih Tzu Dog Mix) & Peanut (A Brown Dachshund Dog Mix) who are both two complete opposites who have nothing in common except this blog and same owners.Khan, who appeared before the Thane Police for interrogation today, confessed that he had placed bets on certain IPL matches.

Mumbai: Bollywood actor and producer Arbaaz Khan on Saturday said he would continue to cooperate with the police in the ongoing probe of an Indian Premier League (IPL) betting case.

"My statement has been recorded. The police asked whatever they needed in this investigation and I answered them. I will continue to cooperate with them," the 50-year-old told media here.

Khan, who appeared before the Thane Police for interrogation today, confessed that he had placed bets on certain IPL matches in the previous edition of the tournament, and incurred losses worth Rs 2.75 crore from the same, as per sources.

Brother of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, Arbaaz was summoned on Friday by the Thane Anti-Extortion Cell, to join the investigation in the case.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Abhishek Trimukhe said six accused have been arrested, adding that action would be taken against the accused.

"Arbaaz Khan's name came up in the case during the interrogation of Sonu Jalan. His statement has been recorded and some new names have cropped up. Action will be taken against them," he said.The Congress also plans to hold kisan rallies across the country starting this month.

New Delhi/Bhopal: Politics over farm distress intensified on Saturday as the BJP dismissed the on-going 10-day farmers stir as politically-motivated and a failure, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi lent support to their demands for loan waiver and better prices by announcing a rally in Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh on June 6  the first death anniversary of six farmers killed in police firing last year.

The BJP, which is struggling to consolidate the rural vote bank, described the ongoing farmers strike a failure on its second day while Mr Gandhi announced his plans for the rally to highlight agrarian distress.

Mr Gandhi slammed the Centre for its failure to help the poor farmers and tweeted, Everyday at least 35 farmers commit suicide in our country. To draw the attention of the Centre our farmer brothers have been forced to go for a 10-day country-wide agitation. To support their cause I will be in Mandsaur on June 6.

The Congress also plans to hold kisan rallies across the country starting this month.

On the second day of the 10-day gram bandh stir called by farmers bodies, the BJP claimed that the agitation was losing steam. Madhya Pradesh agriculture minister Balkrishna Patidar claimed that supply of vegetables and milk from villages to agriculture markets in major parts of the state remained unaffected on Saturday. However, reports from Delhi and other regions indicated that vegetable prices have started shooting up.

Mr Patidar claimed that the strike has fizzled out. Where is the strike happening? No farmers are participating in the strike. Farmers are happy with the schemes the chief minister has launched for them. They have faith that the state government will solve their problems, he told reporters in Bhopal.

The nation-wide strike has been called by the Rashtriya Kisan Mahasangh, an umbrella organisation, seeking farm loan waiver, minimum support price (MSP) for produce and a procurement price of `50 per litre for milk, among other things.

Over 100 outfits across the country are taking part in the protest whose impact has mostly been concentrated in states like Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and West Bengal. However, Sangh-affiliated farmer union Bharatiya Kisan Sangh is not participating in the strike claiming that it is politically motivated.

Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar said that the agitating farmers dont have any issues and they are just focusing on unnecessary things not selling produce will bring losses to farmers.

Referring to Mr Gandhis proposed rally at Piplya Mandi village near Mandsaur, Mr Patidar accused the Congress chief of trying to provoke the farmers of the town which witnessed violent unrest in 2017.Congress has asked poll panel to take action against all those officers who have abetted in the preparation of doctored electoral rolls.

Madhya Pradesh State Congress Committee chief Kamal Nath said, 'We've provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list.' (Photo: File/PTI)

Mumbai: The Congress on Sunday claimed that the BJP was involved in mass duplication of voter entries in the electoral rolls of Madhya Pradesh for Assembly election, 2019.

Blaming the BJP-led government in the state for the alleged irregularities in the state voter rolls, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia questioned how the number of voters increased by 40 per cent when the population in the state only increased by 24 per cent in the last 10 years.

This has been done by the BJP. How is it possible that population increased by 24 per cent in 10 years but number of voters increased by 40 per cent? We scrutinised list in all constituencies, 1 voter is registered in 26 lists, there are similar cases in other places too, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia was quoted by news agency ANI as saying.

INC COMMUNIQUE



Memorandum to the Election Commission of India regarding irregularities in the voter rolls in Madhya Pradesh. @INCMP 1/2 pic.twitter.com/THPgeyIxuX  INC Sandesh (@INCSandesh) June 3, 2018

Madhya Pradesh State Congress Committee chief Kamal Nath said, We've provided evidence to the Election Commission that there are approximately 60 lakh fake voters registered in the voting list. These names have been deliberately registered in the list. Ye prashasanik laparvaahi nahi prashasanik durupyog hai (This is not an administrative carelessness, but misuse of administration).

The Congress demanded the Election Commission to prepare new electoral rolls after removing all duplicate entries and direct election officers to furnish affidavit and certificate verifying all entries.

The party has also asked the poll panel to take action against all those officers who have breached their official duties and have abetted in the preparation of doctored electoral rolls.'Postmortem reports, which states 'death due to asphyxia, hanging ante mortem and suicidal ingestion', police said.

Dulal Kumar, who went missing on Friday, was found hanging by a pole in Dabha village of Purulia's Balarampur. (Facebook | Screengrab | Kailash Vijayvargiya)

Mumbai: The post-mortem report of a BJP worker who was found hanging in West Bengal's Purulia district on Saturday suggests that he committed suicide, police said on Sunday.

We received postmortem reports, which states 'death due to asphyxia, hanging ante mortem and suicidal ingestion'. We're taking formal action, news agency ANI quoted Akash Magharia, Purulias newly-appointed Superintendent of Police (SP), as saying.

Dulal Kumar was found hanging from a power transmission tower near the fields in Dava village early on Saturday morning.

Also Read: Another BJP worker's body found hanging from pole in WB

Other case (Trilochan Mahato) is heading in the right direction too. State government has handed it over to the CID, Magharia added.

Magharia took charge after the government transferred SP Joy Biswas following the death of two BJP workers - Dulal Kumar and Trilochan Mahato in mysterious circumstances within four days.

The BJP has termed the killings as political murders and demanded a CBI inquiry into the incidents.

Life in Purulia district got partially affected as the BJP called a 12-hour shutdown to protest the alleged murder of Dulal Kumar.

The BJP alleged that the ruling-Trinamool Congress was behind the incident.

Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress (TMC) has denied any kind of involvement in the deaths of the two BJP workers and has pointed fingers at the Maoists and also at the turf war between the BJP and the Bajrang Dal.As the funeral was on, the security forces burst teargas canisters into the crowd, injuring dozens of mourners, the witnesses said.

Srinagar: Protests and clashes erupted in central Srinagar on Saturday during the funeral of a 21-year-old local youth who died after he was mowed down by a CRPF vehicle during stone-pelting in Citys Nowhatta area a day ago.

The condition of one of the two other city youth also injured in the CRPFs action is stated be critical. Following the incident which has sparked anger in Kashmir, the J&K police have registered two separate cases against the CRPF and the protesters.

The FIRs have been registered under Sections 307 (Attempt to murder) and 279 (rash driving) 148 of the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC) against the CRPF and Section 148 (Rioting, armed with deadly weapon) against the protesters among other sections including sections 149, 152, 336 and 427.

Confirming the police have booked both the CRPF and protesters, Srinagars SSP Imtiaz Ismail Parray said, We have lodged two cases with regard to the incident and further investigations are going on.

Amid rising tensions over the incident, large contingents of J&K police and Central forces were fanned out across central Srinagar at dawn on Saturday to enforce a security lockdown. However, thousands of residents after violating the curfew-like restrictions poured out on the streets to chant pro-freedom slogans. Many of them relocated to Srinagars Fateh Kadal area to join the funeral procession of the slain youth, witnesses said.

As the funeral was on, the security forces burst teargas canisters into the crowd, injuring dozens of mourners, the witnesses said. Subsequently, the mourners loaded the casket onto a truck which was quickly driven to Srinagars Eidgah martyrs cemetery where the victim Kaiser Bhat was laid to rest amid chants of God is great and We want freedom. Soon again, the security forces resorted to massive teargas shelling against the mourners following which intense clashes and stone-pelting incidents broke out at many places in central Srinagar.

Earlier the authorities suspended mobile internet services across Srinagar district and neighbouring Budgam district as a precautionary measure. The speed of broadband Internet connections on fixed line has also been brought down to prevent uploading of provocative posts and pictures. Also rail services between north-western Kashmirs Baramulla and the Bannihal town in Jammu region were suspended for the day.

Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front chairman Muhammad Yasin Malik was taken into preventive custody by the police from his house in Srinagars Maisuma area. Another key separatist leader and Kashmirs chief Muslim cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest following which he took to social media to condemn the killing of the youth.

He tweeted, Downtown put under curfew, Internet snapped while I placed under #HouseArrest barring me from addressing a rally on occasion of Jung-e-Badr. All this while we lost another 21 year old youth Kaiser Bhat to Indian occupation as he was mowed to death by a CRPF vehicle. Deeply grieved!

Former Chief Minister and opposition National Conference (NC) working president Omar Abdullah while reacting to the incident asked present incumbent Mehbooba Mufti to explain if driving jeeps over protesters was the new standard operating procedure of her government. Earlier they tied people to the fronts of jeeps & paraded them around villages to deter protestors now they just drive their jeeps right over protestors. Is this your new SOP @MehboobaMufti Sahiba? Ceasefire means no guns so use jeeps? he wrote on micro-blogging site Twitter.com.

Meanwhile, a shutdown called by Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), an alliance of key separatist leaders including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, the Mirwaiz and Mr. Yasin Malik, disrupted normal life elsewhere in the Valley. Shops and other businesses and educational institutions remained closed and public transport was off the roads at most places. However, auto-rickshaws and private transport was seen plying in uptown Srinagar and city outskirts.

The JRL had asked people to suspend their work and hold peaceful protests against what is alleged was desecration of Srinagars historic Jama Masjid (Grand Mosque) by security forces while confronting stone-pelting mobs at Nowhatta on May 25 (Friday), damaging of private properties including residential houses and orchards by the Army in southern parts of the Valley and vandalizing the grave of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen commander Sameer Tiger.DPCC chief Ajay Maken rules out any alliance with AAP in Delhi.

New Delhi: While the Delhi Pradesh Congress on Saturday officially rejected any tie-up with Aam Aadmi Party, talks between the two outfits are said to have begun in Punjab for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

On Saturday, DPCC president Ajay Maken categorically stated that the Delhi Congress will not have any electoral tie-up with the AAP.

Meanwhile, leader of Opposition in Punjab and senior AAP politician Sukhpal Singh Khaira has said that he was not against such an alliance to take on the BJP in the next general elections. Sources in the AAP said that most of the party leaders would be "comfortable' with the alliance, if it promises AAPs chances of repeating its performace of 2014, when the party managed to wrestle four Lok Sabha seats in Punjab. An AAP leader said that even if the Congress could offer five out of 13 parliamentary seats in the state, the arithmetic could work for the AAP.

The possibility of alliance could, however, be dampened as the senior AAP leader H.S. Phoolka has said that he is willing to quit, if his party decides to join hands with the Congress. He said that though his party might decide to go-ahead with such an alliance, the issue of 1984 Sikh riots is paramount to him.

A senior Congress leader, meanwhile, said that AAP would only benefit in Punjab by joining hands with it. "Punjab Congress president Sunil Jakhar had last month confirmed that he had brief talks with some AAP MPs in the Parliament and at that time this mega alliance was not even in the picture. It seems that the churning has been on for some time, he said.

The fortunes of the AAP have continued to nose-dive in the state and the many believe that the Lok Sabha polls next year, would be only chance for the party's survival. After winning 20 seats in the last assembly elections, it lost six elections, including four corporations, Gurdaspur Lok Sabha bypoll and now Shahkot assembly by-election.

In Delhi, while Mr Maken held Mr Kejriwal responsible for the "rise of the demon of Modi", it was learnt that AAP had approached the Congress for the alliance, and offered a 5:2 formula, which meant five seats for the AAP and two for the Congress in Delhi. The Congress, which claimed that its vote share has gone up by nearly 14 per cent since the last Assembly polls has asked for three seats. In Punjab, where AAP was struggling to make inroads had approached for an alliance for the Lok Sabha polls. Sources revealed that the talks were in final stages.

Sources said that the informal talks between the grand old party and the AAP began on May 24, with Jairam Ramesh and Ajay Maken representing the former. A source added that the AAP approached the Congress for the alliance, with an offer of a 5:2 ratio for seat sharing in Delhi  five seats for the AAP and two for the Congress.

The Congress party, however, demanded for three out of the seven seats, which included New Delhi for Sharmishtha Mukherjee, Chandni Chowk for Ajay Maken and North West Delhi for Rajkumar Chauhan. However, talks may have hit a stumbling block, as AAP is not willing to give up more than two seats to the Congress.

The speculations about the alliance between the two political outfits gathered steam further after Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday praised former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Twitter. It is worthy to note that Mr Kejriwal had earlier been a strong critic of Manmohan Singh going as far to say in 2013 that, "Manmohan failed to check corruption within Congress and his own government". However, BJP's ever expanding footprint in the country has now made once bitter foes, the best of friends.Curfew was imposed at 4 am Friday in at least 14 localities and Internet services have been suspended.

The police had to resort to lathicharge and firing teargas shells to disperse the rioters. (Photo: PTI)

Guwahati: Curfew has been imposed in some parts of Meghalayas capital Shillong after violence and arson erupted on Friday night when a group of bus drivers clashed with the residents of a colony over a parking issue. The altercation, which began in Them Metor area, escalated and spread to other parts of the city leaving at least 10 people, including a senior police officer, injured.

A violent mob torched a shop, a house and damaged at least five vehicles. The police had to resort to lathicharge and firing teargas shells to disperse the rioters.

Curfew was imposed at 4 am Friday in at least 14 localities and Internet services have been suspended.

The Army was also called in to conduct flag march in the affected areas. Army also rescued about 500 people, including 200 women and children, defence spokesperson Ratnakar Singh said.

While chief minister Conrad K. Sangma has appealed for calm and urged people to help bring back normalcy in Shillong, superintendent of police (East Khasi Hills) Davies Marak said, The situation is very tense. We have arrested a number of stone-pelters.

The violence, in which police personnel were attacked by stone pelters in the restive Motphran area of the city and superintendent of police (city) Stephan Rynjah was hit by a rod, has triggered demands that the government move the alleged illegal settlers and take action against the perpetrators of violence.

Mr Rynjah has been admitted to Shillong Civil Hospital, a senior police officer said.

Trouble began started on Thursday after a bus handyman was allegedly assaulted by a group of residents of Them Metor area.

The argument escalated after a rumour went viral on social media that the handyman, who was a local, had succumbed to injuries, prompting a group of bus drivers to converge at the colony and attack the residents. The police had to fire teargas shells to disperse them.

The handyman and three injured persons were taken to a hospital where they were released after being administered first-aid, police said.

Residents of the Them Metor area admitted that it was a parking dispute followed by verbal abuse that mobilised a huge mob that turned violent.

The intervention of Army, police lathicharge and tear-gas led to the rescue of hundreds of people from Punjabi Line also known as Sweepers Lane, they said.

Lambor Malniang, an independent MLA representing the area, told reporters that the violence was linked to brewing discontent over delay in shifting sweepers in the area to Nongmynsong.

It is time to rehabilitate them immediately. We should not allow people from other communities to assert authority over our land, he said.

Claiming that indigenous people could not walk through Sweepers Lane, he claimed that anti-social activities such as gambling thrived in the area and residents often harassed farmers.

Mr Malniang said that the incident was a wake-up call to put a stop to infiltration. We are also minorities, so are they and we understand their situation. We are not asking them to go somewhere else without preparing a place for them. The government is not irresponsible as it is providing a residential place for them at Nongmynsong, he added.

Several local groups, including the Khasi Students Union (KSU), the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) and the Hynniewtrep Youth Council, have demanded that those involved in the assault of local men be punished and the illegal settlers at Them Metor be evicted.

We demand that the government should arrest those involved in the assault of the sons and nephew of the bus driver. The government should also compensate the three victims, KSU president Lambok Marngar told reporters in Shillong.

The KSU leader also said that the government should evict illegal settlers at Them Metor which is adjacent to IewDuh.

Them Metor has become a den for anti-nationals and it is sad that several governments in the past have not taken initiatives to evict them and provide them space somewhere else, said FKJGP president Wellbirth Rani.His deteriorating medical condition, upon his return, prompted the authorities to admit him to Command Hospital.

The jawan had gone to his hometown in Kerala on a month's leave. (Photo: Representational/Pixabay)

Kolkata: The fluid samples of a jawan, who died here days after returning from his hometown in Kerala, has tested "negative" for Nipah virus infection, a defence official said on June 3.

The Command Hospital at Kolkata had sent Seenu Prasad's fluid samples to National Institute of Virology at Pune for the medical test, the official said.

Prasad, posted at Army's Eastern Command Headquarters Fort William, had gone to his hometown in Kerala on a month's leave. He rejoined office on May 13.

His deteriorating medical condition, upon his return, prompted the authorities to admit him to Command Hospital on May 20, the defence spokesperson said, adding that the 27-year-old jawan passed away five days later.Prime Minister Narendra Modi took several concrete foreign policy and security steps in Southeast Asia in recent days.

Prime Minister Modi told the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that India would work with ASEAN to promote a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. (Photo: File/ANI)

Singapore/New Delhi: Almost lost in the din of the upcoming US-North Korea summit and fresh tension between Washington and Beijing last week, India cemented its diplomatic and security ties across Southeast Asia in a clear challenge to China.

It's not clear just how far New Delhi will take these relationships, given years of promise, and a general election due in 11 months that could be a distraction for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. And if India is already rattling China, it won't want to spark open confrontation.

But PM Modi took several concrete foreign policy and security steps in Southeast Asia in recent days.

He signed an agreement with Indonesia to develop a port in the city of Sabang that would overlook the western entrance to the Strait of Malacca, one of the world's busiest waterways, and agreed on a pact with Singapore on logistical support for naval ships, submarines and military aircraft during visits.

The Prime Minister also flew to Kuala Lumpur for a late-scheduled call on Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who won last month's general election, effectively cementing ties with three of the most influential Southeast Asian nations.

On Friday, Prime Minister Modi told the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Asia's premier defence forum, that India would work with the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) to promote a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

"We will work with them, individually or in formats of three or more, for a stable and peaceful region," he said in the keynote speech at the forum.

Several delegates, including US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, voiced support.

At the end of the forum on Sunday, Singapore Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said: "I am sure many countries are delighted that India has indicated its firm commitment to the region."

China Cool

The term "Indo-Pacific" has grown in usage across diplomatic and security circles in the United States, Australia, India and Japan in recent years, shorthand for a broader and democratic-led region in place of "Asia-Pacific", which some people have said places China too firmly at the centre.

In a nod to India's growing regional stature, the US military's Pacific Command in Hawaii formally changed its name to the US Indo-Pacific Command in a ceremony on Wednesday.

Despite an outward show of friendship between China and India and PM Modi's comments about the strong relations between them, Beijing gave a distinctly cool response to his strategy.

The state-owned Global Times warned in an editorial last week: "If India really seeks military access to the strategic island of Sabang, it might wrongfully entrap itself into a strategic competition with China and eventually burn its own fingers."

Senior Colonel Zhao Xiaozhou, a research fellow at the Institute of War Studies Academy of Military Sciences of the People's Liberation Army, told reporters on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue that PM Modi "made some dedicated comments on what he thought of the Indo-Pacific concept".

He did not elaborate but the Global Times quoted him as saying: "The Indo-Pacific strategy, and the quasi-alliance between the US, Japan, India and Australia will not last long."

Wider Footprint

Indian foreign ministry officials said there was a strong element of self-interest in New Delhi's efforts to secure open access to the Malacca Strait, since it carries about 60 per cent of its foreign trade.

But India's intended footprint looks to be wider. Late last month, three Indian warships staged exercises with the Vietnamese navy for the first time in the South China Sea, which is claimed almost wholly by China.

Vietnamese submariners are trained in India, while the two sides have significantly increased intelligence sharing and are exploring advanced weapons sales.

To the west, India signed an agreement for access to the port of Duqm on Oman's southern coast, during a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year. Under the agreement, media reports said, the Indian Navy will be able to use the port for logistics and support, allowing it to sustain long-term operations in the western Indian Ocean.

In January, India finalised a logistics exchange arrangement with France under which it can use French military facilities in the Indian Ocean.

Analysts said a more assertive India would answer concerns in Southeast Asia about expanding Chinese influence in the region and a fear that the United States was disengaging.

The United States' trade spat with China and a perceived U-turn in its foreign policy as it pursues peace with North Korea had shaken many assumptions in the region, they said.

"There is some pressure (in ASEAN) for diversification of security relationships, taking insurances," said C Raja Mohan, director of the Institute of South Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore.

"An active India then actually fits into this situation."

But although PM Modi has started strongly, it was not clear how well his strategy would be sustained, he added.

"Implementation has always been a major challenge for India. (PM Modi is) struggling to improve the capacity of Delhi to do things outside borders. There's been some advance but that is a structural challenge that will remain."The journalist, Jawahar Nadar, has accused the team of 'Kaala' of portraying his father, late S Thiraviam Nadar, in a negative light.

Nadar has demanded a written apology, failing which he has threatened to file a defamation suit seeking Rs 101 crore as damages. (Photo: File)

Mumbai: Ahead of his film 'Kaala' which is set to release next week, south superstar Rajnikanth has landed into legal trouble. A Mumbai-based journalist has filed a defamation suit against the actor and also demanded an apology within 36 hours.

The journalist, Jawahar Nadar, has accused the team of 'Kaala' of portraying his father, late S Thiraviam Nadar, in a negative light.

According to an NDTV report, the Mumbai-based journalist says his father was a jaggery and sugar merchant. He had moved to Mumbai from Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin district in 1957 and over a period of time was nick-named 'Gudwala Seth' and 'Kaala Seth'. The journalist claims that his father was never involved in illegal activities as may have been portrayed in the film.

However, the actor's team informed that they will give an apt reply at the right time.

Nadar has demanded a written apology, failing which he has threatened to file a defamation suit seeking Rs 101 crore as damages.Former President Pranab Mukherjee will attend the valedictory function as chief guest at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur on June 7.

The ex-president had earlier accepted the RSS invite to be the chief guest at the event on June 7. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: As the date for the valedictory function at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur inches closer, former President Pranab Mukherjee gave a firm reply on his decision to attend the event.

The ex-president had earlier accepted the RSS invite to be the chief guest at the event on June 7.

The 82-year-old former President said to Bengali daily Anandabazar Patrika, "Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur. I have received several letters, requests and phone calls, but I haven't responded to anyone yet."

However, many leaders from the Congress had earlier asked him to reconsider his decision including senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.

The others who tried to tell Mukherjee to reconsider his meet were Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, former Union Minister CK Jaffer Sharief and the party's Bengal unit leader Adhir Choudhury.

Former MP and Delhi Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said as a Congress leader and minister, Mukherjee has spoken about the RSS and the BJP many times on various issues and dubbed it as "bad" and "worst" outfit, which is "communal" and "anti-national".

Sandeep Dikshit is the son of former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit.

However, RSS leader Rakesh Sinha said that Mukherjee's acceptance to attend the event reflects that there can be dialogue on vital issues and adversaries are not necessarily enemies.

Earlier, Union minister Nitin Gadkari had said, "The RSS is not Pakistan's ISI. The RSS is an organisation of nationalists."

"Mukherjee's acceptance of the invitation is a good start. Political untouchability is not good," Gadkari added.The EAM will participate in the Brics foreign ministers meeting on June 4, 2018 and chair the IBSA foreign ministers meeting.

New Delhi: External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj left for a five-day visit to South Africa to participate in the Brics (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) foreign ministers meeting and chair the IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) foreign ministers meeting there. She will also participate in events there in memory of Gandhijis struggle against racism in South Africa. During her visit there, commemorative stamps on saffron ideologue Deen Dayal Upadhayay will also be released.

External affairs minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj will be visiting South Africa from June 3-7, 2018. During the visit, the external affairs minister is expected to have meetings with top leadership of South Africa. The EAM will participate in the Brics foreign ministers meeting on June 4, 2018 and chair the IBSA foreign ministers meeting. On the June 6, EAM will visit the Phoenix Settlement, a South African Heritage site, marking the place that served as Gandhijis home and where he developed his philosophy of non-violence, the MEA said in a statement.

She would also participate in a series of events on June 6-7, 2018 at Pietermaritzburg, South Africa to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the historic incident in the train compartment that became a catalyst for Gandhijis Satyagraha movement. The two-day commemoration activities will also include release of joint commemorative stamps on Oliver Tambo and Pt Deen Dayal Upadhayay and a Youth Summit where 20 diaspora youth from Africa and 5 from India will participate to speak on the relevance of Gandhijis message of peace to the youth of today, the MEA added.

The 1893 incident proved to be a turning point in Gandhis fight against racial discrimination in South Africa.

The year 2018 is an important year for India-South Africa relations as it marks the 25 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the 125th anniversary of the Pietermaritzburg railway station incident and the 100th birth centenary of South African iconic leader Nelson Mandela. India and South Africa enjoy close and friendly relations which are rooted in our history and the values of south-south cooperation. The visit of EAM will further strengthen our close and long standing ties with South Africa, the MEA said.The chief minister said the clashes were given a communal colour by vested groups and a section of the media outside the state.

Guwahati: Curfew in pockets of Shillong was relaxed for seven hours on Sunday even as Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K. Sangma said the violence that broke out on Thursday was a local issue and not communal in nature.

The chief minister also told reporters that there were hints of a larger conspiracy behind the clashes.

We have understood that there are people who are funding this agitation. Expensive alcohol and money is being given. We will take stern action against the plotters, Mr Sangma told a TV channel.

The problem is very much in a particular locality, on a particular issue. It just happened that two particular communities were involved, but its not a communal thing, Mr Sangma said.

The clashes were given a communal colour by vested groups and a section of the media outside the state, he said.

Meanwhile, sporadic incidents of violence continued on Saturday night when miscreants hurled patrol bombs at various places and set a motorcycle showroom on fire. Police said that at least six new motorcycles were burnt in arson.

Deputy commissioner of East Khasi Hills Peter S. Dkhar said, We relaxed the curfew from 8 am to 3 pm today under Lumdiengjri police station and Cantonment Beat House areas to allow people to get their essential commodities. No untoward incident was reported from any part of the area.

Admitting that the situation was still tense, Mr Dkhar said that suspension of Internet on mobile services would continue.

Curbs have also been imposed on sale of petrol and diesel in cans and other containers within the district, he said.

Union home minister Rajnath Singh called up the chief minister on Sunday to take stock of the situation. The home ministry has already rushed six companies of paramilitary forces to help the state administration in restoring peace, said a security source.

The Army on Saturday night rescued about 500 people, including 200 women and children, from Punjabi Lane area where the trouble started on Thursday over a parking issue. The clashes between two communities had left at least 10 people, including policemen, injured.

One of the rescued residents, Jeet Kaur, said, I came here as I know I will be safe under Army protection.

Following reports of attacks on Punjabis in Shillong, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has decided to write a letter to Meghalaya chief minister asking him to ensure safety of Sikhs in the state.

Delhi MLA and general secretary of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, visited Shillong on Sunday and after assessing the situation asked the people outside the state not to believe in rumours as the Sikhs living in Meghalaya are safe.

A delegation of the Shiromani Akali Dal (Delhi), under the leadership of general secretary Harvinder Singh Sarna, met Delhi Bishop Theodorer Mascranes on Saturday. It appealed to him to help end clashes between the Sikh and Christian minorities in Shillong.

Meanwhile, members of the ruling alliance in Meghalaya have started mounting pressure on the chief minister to shift the Sweeper Colony from existing location in the Punjabi Lane area.

State government sources said that the government was looking into the demand of Khasi Students Union to shift the Sweeper Colony.The IAF Embraer aircraft apparently was to be refuelled at Mauritius and Ms. Swaraj made a transit halt there.

New Delhi: A major aviation safety scare took place on Saturday evening when the special Indian Air Force (IAF) flight that had external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on board went incommunicado for 14 minutes before the Mauritius ATC pressed the panic button and activated the INCERFA (uncertainty phase). This meant the Mauritius ATC was not sure about the location of the plane and is a stage wherein search and rescue efforts are activated and nearby planes in the area are asked to try to contact the concerned aircraft. Fortunately, after a gap of 14 minutes, the IAF aircraft established contact with the Mauritius ATC much to the relief of everyone. Usually, the ATC waits for a gap of 30 minutes of loss of communication before activating the INCERFA but the Mauritius ATC apparently decided not to take any chances since a VIP was on board. Ms Swaraj was en route to Mauritius at the time on her way to South Africa on a five-day official visit. The IAF Embraer aircraft apparently was to be refuelled at Mauritius and Ms. Swaraj made a transit halt there.

It is unclear why the aircraft went incommunicado for 14 minutes. One possibility could be that the pilot tried to contact the Mauritius ATC through the VHF radio frequency which has a limited range. The aircraft was flying over vast stretches of the Indian Ocean where there is no radar coverage. In a statement on Sunday evening, the state-run Airports Authority of India (AAI)under whose aegis the Indian Air Traffic Control (ATC) functionssaid, Indian Air Force Flight IFC31 carrying External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj departed from Trivandrum at 1408 IST (2.08 pm Saturday) for Mauritius. Aircraft changed over from Indian airspace to Male (Maldives) ATC which then established contact with the aircraft at 1644 IST (4.44 pm Saturday). However, IFC31 could not contact Mauritius ATC after entering Mauritius airspace. Mauritius ATC then activated INCERFA (uncertainty phase) . Later at 1658 IST (4.58 pm Saturday), IFC31 came in contact with Mauritius ATC and landed. Mauritius ATC activated INCERFA (uncertainty phase) without allowing the stipulated time of 30 minutes to lapse from the time when aircraft last contacted ATC.

This was perhaps done because the flight was carrying a VIP.The research studied the ability of three different prototype sequencing tests to detect cancer in blood samples.

CHICAGO: An experimental blood screening test from Grail Inc showed early promise in detecting early-stage lung cancers based on free-floating DNA released by tumours, according to preliminary results released on Saturday.

The findings, presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) meeting in Chicago, were based on a sample of 127 lung cancer patients and 580 healthy people.

The findings represent a first look how a blood test for early-stage cancer would do at detecting lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death in the United States often diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Grails lung cancer data comes from a wider study that eventually aims to enrol 15,000 participants and cover 20 different types of cancers.

Grail, a Silicon Valley spinoff of sequencing company Illumina Inc, merged last year with Hong Kong-based Cirina Ltd, a private company focused on early cancer detection.

What were generally seeing is a strong blood-based biological signal for cancers that have a high mortality and are typically not screened for, Dr. Anne-Renee Hartman, vice president of clinical development at Grail, said in a telephone interview.

The research studied the ability of three different prototype sequencing tests to detect cancer in blood samples from people with early to advanced lung cancers.

All three tests identified lung cancers with a low rate of false positives. But they did a better job of detecting later-stage cancers, which shed more DNA fragments, than early-stage cancers, the companys ultimate goal.

One of the tests, which used sequencing to detect non-hereditary mutations, performed the best. It detected 51 percent of early-stage cancers and 89 percent of late-stage cancers.

Researchers also found that more than half of patients in the study had mutations in their blood that came from white blood cells, and not tumours, requiring them to develop a method to screen those out to prevent false positives.

Dr. Geoffrey Oxnard of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, who led the study, called the findings promising early results, but said the tests need to be validated in a larger group of people.

Cirinas co-founder David Lo was the first scientist to detect free-floating fetal DNA in the blood of a pregnant woman, kicking off the push to use gene sequencing to find fetal abnormalities, and then cancer, in the blood.

Since 2016, Grail has raised more than $1.5 billion. Investors include Ally Bridge Group, Hillhouse Capital Group, Sequoia Capital China and WuXi NextCode.The deceased, Dulal Kumar (32), was a leader of the BJPs OBC cell in Purulia district which has a large tribal population.

Kolkata: Close on the heels of a teenaged BJP workers death under mysterious circumstances in Purulia, another young BJP worker was found hanging from a power transmission tower in the same area on Saturday.

The deceased, Dulal Kumar (32), was a leader of the BJPs OBC cell in Purulia district which has a large tribal population.

The BJP has called a 12-hour bandh in the district on Sunday to protest what it described as a political murder.

The BJPs central leadership tore into the Mamata Banerjee government on Saturday, with party chief Amit Shah tweeting a photograph of Dulal Kumar hanging from the tower, along with this message: Distressed to know about yet another killing of BJP karyakarta Dulal Kumar in Balrampur, West Bengal. This continued brutality and violence in the land of West Bengal is shameful and inhuman. Mamata Banerjees govt has completely failed to maintain law and order in the state. The West Bengal government, under pressure following two incidents of similar nature, has ordered a probe by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

The state government also removed superintendent of police (Purulia) Joy Biswas for calling the first death a murder and categorising the second one as suicide while ruling out any political angle before the probe ends.

The Purulia district witnessed significant rise in the saffron partys vote share in the recently held panchayat elections in a neck-and-neck battle with the Trinamool Congress.

On May 30 morning, 18-year-ol Trilochon Mahato, a BJP worker, who had been missing since May 29 evening, was found hanging from a tree in the forest area of Supurdih village in Balaramapur.

A poster found on the ground had a line written in Bengali on it  Aatharo Bochhor Boyose BJP Rajneeti (BJP politics at the age of 18)  along with a warning not to get involved with the BJP. The same line in Bengali was found written in pen on the back of the victims T-shirt after the police brought down the body.

The BJP had then accused the Trinamul of killing Trilochon.

On Friday evening, Dulal Kumar returned home after participating in a BJP protest of gheraoing police stations. At night he left his home on his motorbike. His family members alleged that when he did not return, they tried calling him on his cellphone but the call was disconnected.

After midnight Dulals motorcycle was found lying near a pond, but there was no trace of him.

On Saturday morning Dulal was found hanging from a rope tied to a high-tension tower for power supply at Dava village in Balarampur where he lived.

When villagers saw the body, they erupted in fury. A police team rushed to the spot to recover the body and send it for post-mortem. But when villagers prevented them from doing so, there were clashes. The body was finally recovered after the police lathicharged the villagers.

According to Dulals family, he was abducted and murdered by Trinamul workers before the body was hung from the HT tower. His wife alleged that workers of the ruling party had threatened her husband on May 31. She demanded that her husbands assailants should meet the same fate he did.

Additional director general of police (law and order) Anuj Sharma said that the CID has been entrusted to probe both the deaths as a conspiracy is suspected in both. He added that the role of outsiders is also under investigation.

Earlier, talking about Dulals death, SP Purulia had said, He went missing after going out of his home to attend to natures call at around 8 pm. In the morning he was found hanging from the tower. We examined the place of occurrence. It appears to be a case of suicide After post-mortem, the cause of death will be known. I did not find any political angle behind the death.

On Trilochans death Mr Biswas had said, We initiated a case under Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code. Preliminary investigation indicates a personal enmity or grudge behind the death. A probe is being conducted properly. The actual culprit will be arrested based on the evidence available in the probe.

By Saturday evening Mr Biswas was removed from his post. Akash Megharia, who was the special superintendent of police (CID), has taken charge as SP Purulia.3 days after another BJP worker was found hanging from tree in Purulia.

BJP Mahila Morcha and Yuva Morcha activists take part in a rally against recent killings of BJPs Trilochan Mahato and Dulal Kumar in Purulia, allegedly by the TMC workers, in Kolkata on Saturday. (Photo: PTI)

Kolkata: Close on the heels of a teenaged BJP workers death under mysterious circumstances in Purulia another young BJP worker died in the same area of the Jangalmahal district, which witnessed the saffron partys significant rise in votebank in the recent panchayat elections in a neck-and-neck battle with the Trinamul Congress.

The BJP has called a 12-hour bandh in the district on Sunday to protest the death which it described as murder. Its central leadership tore into the Mamata Banerjee government which later ordered a probe by the criminal investigation department judging the gravity of two back to back incidents of similar nature.

The state government also removed superintendent of police (Purulia) Joy Biswas from his post for calling the first death as murder and the second one as suicide while ruling out any political angle before the probe ends.

The deceased, Dulal Kumar (32), was a leader of BJPs OBC cell in the district with a large of populace of the tribal community. He returned home on Friday evening after participating in the BJP programme of gheraoing police stations. At night he however left home riding his motorbike.

His family members alleged that when he did not return home, they called him on his cellphone but the call was disconnected.

After mid-night Dulals motorcycle was found lying beside a pond. But he remained missing. On Saturday morning Dulal was found hanging with a rope tied around his neck from a rod of a high-tension (HT) tower for power supply at Dava village in Balarampur where he lived.

When the villagers came across the body, they erupted in fury. A police team rushed to the spot to recover the body to send it for post-mortem. But the villagers prevented them while demonstrating with the body for several hours before a clash broke out between both sides.

The body was recovered after the villagers were dispersed as the police lathicharged them. According to Dulals family, he was abducted and murdered by the Trinamul workers before the body was hung from the HT tower. His wife alleged that her husband was threatened by the ruling party workers with dire consequences on May 31.

She demanded that her husbands assailants should meet the same fate he did.

On May 30 morning Trilochon Mahato (18), a BJP worker, who had been missing since May 29 evening, was found hanging from a tree at Supurdih village at a forest in Balaramapur. A poster was also found on the ground.

A line in Bengali: Aatharo Bochhor Boyose BJP Rajneeti (BJP politics at the age of 18) was written in it along with comments of warning to get associated with the BJP and threatening to take his life. The same line was found written by pen on the back of the victims T-Shirt after the police brought down the body.

The BJP had then accused the Trinamool of killing Trilochon. Additional director general of police (law and order) Anuj Sharma informed that the CID has been entrusted to probe both the deaths as a conspiracy was suspected in both. He added that the role of outsiders was also under investigation.

On Trilochans death Mr Biswas however said, We initiated a case under section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code. Preliminary investigation indicates a personal enmity or grudge behind the death.

A probe is being conducted properly. The actual culprit will be arrested based on the evidence available in the probe.

On Dulals death he elaborated, He went missing after going out home to attend natures call at around 8 pm. In the morning he was found hanging from the tower. We examined the place of occurrance. It appears to be a case of suicide in view of the symptoms of the body. Mr Biswas added, The body has been sent for post-mortem. After post-mortem, the cause of death will be known. I did not find any political angle behind the death. In the evening he was removed from his post. Akash Megharia who was the special superintendent of police (CID) replaced him as SP (Purulia).

Mr Biswas has been appointed as the commanding officer (ninth battalion) of the state armed police replacing Kankar Prasad Barui who has been made CO(rapid action force) at Durgapur.Mr Khan left the crime branch at around 4.15 pm and he said he would come if summoned again.

Mumbai: Bollywood actor and director Arbaaz Khan might be made witness in the Indian Premier League (IPL) betting case, which allegedly has links to fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim. The Thane polices anti-extortion cell (AEC) on Saturday recorded Mr Khans statement, where he admitted to placing bets in the IPL via bookie Sonu Jalan alias Sonu Malad. The police has also identified one Dilip Ludhani, the son of a Mumbai-based property developer who operates from Dubai and is stated to be close to Ibrahim. AEC officials said that Ludhani and another notorious bookie, Junior Calcutta, are also on their radar. Both of them operate from outside India and are known to be close to the D-gang.

Mr Khan was questioned for five hours with Jalan present. The AEC officials have also learnt that betting money was making its way to Pakistan via Sri Lanka as opposed to Dubai to avoid detection. The actor has told police that he also suffered losses, pegged to be around Rs 2.75 crore, in betting activities.

We were told by the actor that he placed bets, and we are verifying the details of the same, said Abhishek Trimukhe, deputy commissioner of police, Thane crime branch.

Investigators, however, stated that Khan placed bets over phone with Jalan and transactions never took place between them. Khan allegedly told the police that there was a rift between them after he informed the actor that he owed him Rs 2.75 crore.

The crime branch is now investigating antecedents of the persons, including a Bollywood producer, whose names have come up during the questioning of Jalan.

The actor also allegedly told the police that Jalan called him to meet on several occasions; however he met him only once. He told the crime branch that Jalan allegedly wanted to flaunt his celebrity contacts by developing proximity with Khan.

We summoned Khan for questioning and he has replied to all the questions. We have come across 15 to 20 more names of people who would be probed. They are masters (persons who collect money on behalf of bookies), said Pradeep Sharma, senior inspector of the crime branch.

Mr Khan left the crime branch at around 4.15 pm and he said he would come if summoned again. I have replied to all the questions that were asked. I will continue to cooperate with police, Mr Khan said while being whisked away by bodyguard Shera.The BJP fears a backlash from the Mali community following the arrest of senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal in 2016.

Mumbai: To consolidate the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) base among the OBC communities, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis is focusing on the Teli community and attended its national convention in Delhi on Saturday. Maharashtra has approximately 11 per cent voters who belong to this, which is the third largest in the OBC category after the Vanjari and the Mali.

The BJP, which has been nurturing its OBC votebank for the last three decades, fears a backlash from the Mali community following the arrest of senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Chhagan Bhujbal in 2016 in a money-laundering case, as he belongs to the community. Now it is being assumed that to re-establish himself in state politics, Mr Bhujbal would play the OBC card, which is likely to hurt the BJP.

Also, following the death of Gopinath Munde, the Vanjari community was expecting a bigger role for his daughter Pankaja Munde. But sidelining her has only given estranged cousin and NCP leader Dhananjay Munde an opportunity to make inroads. Hence the BJP is now focussing on the next largest OBC community ahead of elections to compensate for losing support among the Malis and the Vanjaris.

Addressing the Teli Shahu Samaj, the CM said, I become chief minister because the Teli community stood by me. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is himself from this community. I am committed to completing all the demands of community.

The Teli community is a nationwide community unlike the Vanjari. Reaching out to their national convention would help BJP all over India, said social expert Prakash Powar.

Interestingly, the communitys national president is NCP leader Jayadatta Kshirsagar, who is believed to be sulking in his party these days. There is a buzz about his increasing closeness to Mr Fadnavis and one cant rule out the possibility of another strong NCP leader entering the BJP fold.As per the minutes of the meeting, all private and government hospitals have been kept on alert for the same.

Mumbai: After the 17 deaths caused by Nipah virus in Kerala, the state public health department met the officials from the National Institute of Virology in Pune, on Saturday to review surveillance strategies to detect Nipah cases in the state.

The health department has assured that there is no cause for worry and that tourists returning from Kerala will be screened for possible symptoms. As per the minutes of the meeting, all private and government hospitals have been kept on alert for the same.

Dr Pradeep Awate, state surveillance officer, said, The public health officials at primary health centres are being trained to identify symptoms and transmission of the virus.

We are strengthening the surveillance to detect Nipah cases in the state and have already issued the advisory as well as kept laboratories and isolation wards on stand by, he added.

At present, no specific treatment is available to counter the virus. Avoiding exposure to sick pigs and bats in endemic areas, non-consumption of fruits partially eaten by infected bats or drinking raw date palm sap, toddy can prevent infection, revealed a World Health Organisation advisory.

Meanwhile, the state health ministry has advised against any travel or trade restrictions in affected parts. While talking to The Asian Age, state health Minister, Dr Deepak Sawant, said, Though till date, patients with the Nipah virus infection have not been found in Maharashtra. I urge people to avoid visits to Kerala.

He added, As a precautionary measure, government has created an isolation ward at Kasturba hospital to treat Nipah virus.

Preventive measures

HC to hear solution Isolation wards are being set up in hospitals. Isolation is the only care for Nipah Virus (NiV) affected patients since infection with NiV is associated with encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). There are currently no drugs or vaccines to treat NiV infection. Intensive supportive care is recommended to treat severe respiratory and neurological complications.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 director is set to return to the genre after a hiatus of over 40 years.

Mumbai: Horror movie icon Brian De Palma has said that he is currently writing the script for a film based on the Harvey Weinstein sexual abuse and harassment scandal.

The 77-year-old director, who became a force to reckon with after "Carrie" released in 1976, is set to return to the genre after a hiatus of over 40 years.

"I'm writing a film about this scandal, a project I'm talking about with a French producer," De Palma told French publication Le Parisien.

He added, "My character won't be named Harvey Weinstein but it will be a horror film, with a sexual aggressor, and it will take place in the film industry.

De Palma did not reveal on how soon the script would be completed.

The director also has films such as "Scarface", "Dressed to Kill", "The Untouchables" and the original "Mission: Impossible" to his credit.

He recently wrapped up crime thriller "Domino", starring Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Carice van Houten and Guy Pearce and said working on the film was "a horrible experience" and that the film might not release.

Besides De Palma, playwright David Mamet is also working on a play about Weinstein.The upcoming Motorola One Power handset is said to run on the Android One OS.

Over the past couple of days, there have been quite a few leaks regarding what is supposed to be the next exciting offering from Motorola, the Motorola One Power.

The first information that came up regarding the Motorola One Power was that there was a leaked press image. From it, we can gather that it will come with a notch that is similar to the iPhone X and a plethora of Android handsets that are available in the market. This is a tried and tested design so its no surprise that Motorola has decided to include the notch.

A big change seen here is that Motorola has decided to shift to the Motorola branding after using the Moto branding for quite some years. Apart from the Motorola branding on the front, the rear of the phone features the Android One branding.

In a related report regarding the Motorola One Power, the specifications have been revealed. This handset is believed to feature a Snapdragon 636 chipset, 6GB RAM, 64GB onboard storage and will feature an FHD+ display. The rear camera is said to be rated at 16MP with a f/1.8 aperture and a secondary 5MP camera with f/2.0 lens. The front-facing camera is believed to be 16MP`with a f/1.9 aperture. There are rumours that the handset will come with a 3,780mAh battery.

This handset is not expected to be launched any time soon like the Moto Z3 Play on June 6, 2018, but at a later date. The handset could be priced attractively and will sit in the med or upper mid-range segment.

Disclaimer: The above report is completely based on online rumours and leaks from the respective sources. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Deccan Chronicle and/or other staff and contributors to this site.

(Source)The meeting was held on the sidelines of the annual Shangri-La Dialogue that was addressed by the Prime Minister Friday night.

Singapore: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met US defence secretary Jim Mattis in Singapore and discussed security related issues, days after the Pentagon renamed its Pacific Command as Indo-Pacific Command in a largely symbolic move to signal Indias importance to the US military.

Mr Modi, who is here on the last leg of his three-nation tour, held a closed-door meeting with Mr Mattis during which both sides discussed all security related issues of mutual and global interests, sources said.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval was also present in the meeting that lasted for nearly an hour. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the annual Shangri-La Dialogue that was addressed by the Prime Minister Friday night.

The focus of conversation was on the region in the context of PMs keynote address at the #SLD18 yesterday evening, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

In his keynote address, Mr Modi had said an Asia of rivalry will hold the region back while an Asia of cooperation will shape the current century.

Asia and the world will have a better future when India and China work together with trust and confidence while being sensitive to each others interests, he had said.

We should all have equal access as a right under international law to the use of common spaces on sea and in the air that would require freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, he had said.

Mr Mattis also addressed the dialogue where he stressed upon freedom for all and reaffirmation for rule based order.

The meeting between the two leaders assumes significance as in his address Mr Mattis has stressed upon both countries working together and with other nations for ensuring peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

It is only appropriate that waterways remain open for all nations, Mr Mattis said.

The meeting comes days after the US renamed its oldest and largest military command  the Pacific Command  to Indo-Pacific Command, amid heightened tensions with China over the militarisation of the South China Sea.

The US move came in the wake of a series of measures by China that have raised tensions in the South China Sea.

China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the area. The US also rejects Chinas claims of ownership of the area.

The Pentagons move is also reflective of the growing importance of India in US strategic thinking.

India was granted the Major Defence Partner status by the previous Barack Obama administration, providing for transfer of technology and deeper cooperation in the defence sector.

In 2016, India and the US had signed a crucial logistics defence pact enabling their militaries to use each others assets and bases for repair and replenishment of supplies, making joint operations more efficient.

Soon after coming to power, the Trump administration had renamed Asia Pacific as Indo-Pacific and identified India as one bookend of the region.Modi ends 3-nation tour aimed at countering Chinas growing influence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hand with emeritus senior minister Goh Chok Tong after unveiling the plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhis ashes at Clifford Pier in Singapore. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday conclude his three-nation visit in Southeast Asia by inking a pact with Singapore for logistic support for Indian naval ships and submarines.

At the culmination of his visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, aimed at attaining a strategic foothold in the region marked by increased Chinese economic and military assertiveness, Mr Modi tweeted, India and Singapore are cooperating not only on land but also in the seas! At the Changi Naval Base I got an opportunity to witness the deep-rooted naval cooperation between our two nations.

Before his return to India on Saturday, Mr Modi met officers and sailors of the Indian Navy and Royal Singapore Navy.

During his three-day visit to Singapore, Mr Modi held wide-ranging talks with his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong and delivered a keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue  Asias premier defence and strategic affairs conference.

Mr Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Shangri-La Dialogue, had said, in his keynote address at the dialogue on Friday, said that an Asia of rivalry will hold the region back while an Asia of cooperation will shape the current century. On Saturday, external affairs ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the Prime Ministers visit added momentum to Indias Act East Policy.

After a significant and successful three-nation visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, PM @narendramodi emplanes for India, Mr Kumar tweeted.

India has extremely close defence ties with Vietnam but has put forth a determined effort to strengthen strategic ties with other Asean nations.

In a major defence initiative, India had on Friday inked an implementation pact with Singapore between the two navies for coordination, logistics and services support for naval ships, submarines and naval aircraft.

Earlier this week, Mr Modi and Indonesian President Joko Widodo had held talks in Jakarta and had confirmed the setting up of a joint task force to undertake projects for port related infrastructure in and around Sabang (a strategically-located Indonesian island at the northern tip of Sumatra near the Malacca Straits to which New Delhi will now gain access).

India is also only the second country after China with which Indonesia has established a comprehensive strategic partnership. The partnership was announced during the PMs visit in Jakarta. It was also decided to boost connectivity between Sabang island and Indias Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar islands which are a few hundred nautical miles apart.

While the development of the strategically-located port is expected to benefit India economically, there has been no official word on whether this could translate in the future to Indian military access to the port. Crucial global shipping lines pass through the Malacca Straits.Through the Eucharist "we experience the New Covenant, which fully realises the communion between God and us. And as participants in this Covenant, we, however small and poor, work together on building history as God wants it.

Vatican City (AsiaNews)  In his Angelus address, Pope Francis expressed sorrow over the violence that has gripped Nicaragua and left scores of people dead and wounded. In view of the situation, the pontiff has called for dialogue, which needs respect.

In doing so, Francis joined Nicaraguas bishops "in expressing sorrow for the serious violence, with dead and wounded, carried out by armed groups to repress social protests. I pray for the victims and their families.

The Church, he added, is always for dialogue, but this requires an active commitment to respect freedom and, above all, life. I pray for an end to the violence and that conditions be set for the resumption of dialogue as soon as possible."

Earlier, before the recitation of the Marian prayer, the pope told the 20,000 people present in St Peter's Square that every time we celebrate the Eucharist, "we experience the New Covenant, which fully realises the communion between God and us. And as participants in this Covenant, we, however small and poor, work together on building up history as God wants it."

Illustrating the meaning of today's celebration of the Corpus Domini, or the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, the Pope noted that "today in many countries, including Italy, the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ is celebrated, or, according to the most famous Latin expression, of Corpus Domini.

The Gospel brings us the words of Jesus, spoken at the Last Supper with his disciples: Take it; this is my body [. . .] This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed* for many" (Mk 14:22-24). Precisely because of that testament of love, the Christian community gathers every Sunday, and every day, around the Eucharist, the sacrament of the redemptive Sacrifice of Christ. Attracted by his real presence, Christians worship him and contemplate him through the humble sign of the bread that became his Body.

Every time we celebrate the Eucharist, through this sober and so solemn sacrament, we experience the New Covenant, which fully realises the communion between God and us. And as participants in this Covenant, we, however small and poor, work together on building history as God wants it. Therefore, every Eucharistic celebration, whilst it constitutes an act of public worship to God, refers to life and the concrete events of our existence.

Whilst we nourish ourselves with the Body and Blood of Christ, we are assimilated to him, [and] we receive his love in us, not to keep him jealously but to share him with others. This is the Eucharistic logic. In fact, we contemplate Jesus as broken and given bread, blood shed for our salvation. It is a presence that burns away selfish attitudes in us, purifies us from the tendency to give only when we have received, and ignites the desire to make us too, in union with Jesus, broken bread and blood shed for our brothers.

Therefore, the feast of the Corpus Domini is a mystery of attraction to Christ and transformation in him. It is a school of concrete love, patient and sacrificed, like Jesus on the cross. It teaches us to become more welcoming and available to those in search of understanding, help, encouragement, who are marginalised and alone. The presence of Jesus alive in the Eucharist is like a door, an open door between the temple and the road, between faith and history, between the city of God and the city of man.

The processions with the Blessed Sacrament are expression of popular Eucharistic piety, which are held in many countries during today's solemnity. They are an eloquent sign of the fact that Jesus, who died and rose, continues to walk the paths of the world, joins us and guides our path: He nourishes faith, hope and love; brings comfort in moments of trial; [and] supports the commitment to justice and peace. This evening too, in Ostia  as the Blessed Paul VI did 50 years ago  I shall celebrate Mass, which will be followed by the procession with the Blessed Sacrament. I invite everyone to participate, spiritually too, through radio and television."Contact The Californians Robert Price at 661-395-7399, rprice@bakersfield.com or on Twitter: @stubblebuzz. His column appears on Sundays, Wednesdays and Saturdays; the views expressed are his own.The deal means Air New Zealand passengers will use Qantas for onward domestic travel in Australia, and vice versa in New Zealand on routes that JetStar doesn't fly or have a connecting service.

Qantas soared to a record profit in February, while Air New Zealand said it was headed for its second-highest annual profit ever.

Airport security expert Roger Henning echoed the sentiment, telling The New Daily, the deal was a strong move for Qantas and Air NZ and agreeing it would be an economic hit on Virgin Australia.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce added that the two national carriers had a lot of shared history as well as a shared goal of making travel easier.

"A codeshare deal on our domestic networks makes sense for customers because it leverages the strengths we each have in our home markets".

The agreement will be applied to 115 domestic routes in New Zealand and Australia, the two airlines announced in Sydney today.

Qantas says that its Jetstar NZ operation will remain, and in cases where a domestic Jetstar NZ flight offers the same or better connection against a trans-Tasman Qantas service than an Air New Zealand flight, the Jetstar flight will be carry for a QF codeshare but not the Air NZ flight.

Eligible customers will have access to a combined total of 36 domestic lounges on both sides of the Tasman when flying on routes covered by the codeshare agreement.

The codeshare and customer offering will exclude Trans-Tasman flights.

The new deal between Air NZ and Qantas will start from 28 October.

Air New Zealand chief executive Luxon and his Qantas counterpart Joyce have traded barbs in the past but increasingly they've been light-hearted around transtasman sporting contests.

Essentially a codeshare agreement denotes an arrangement between two or more airlines, in which they both agree to share the same flight.

"This will push Virgin into a corner", Australian Business Traveller editor David Flynn told The New Daily.

The two airlines are also looking at the potential to explore areas of mutual interest such as into biofuels, freight and ground-handling opportunities.

"We know certainly that Qantas is a pretty fierce competitor of ours, the most formidable competitor we face, but also the one we respect the most and it makes us a much better airline as a outcome of the announcement", he said.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines)  Economic managers have failed to see tax reform law as how ordinary workers do, a party-list representative said Saturday.

ACT Teachers Representative Antonio Tinio said, in a forum at the University of the Philippines Saturday, economic managers look at the Tax Reform Law or Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law in a macro view.

"Yung disconnect sa pagitan ng point of view ng economic managers. Para sa kanila maganda pa yan pagtakbo ng ekonomiya, therefore, beneficial ang TRAIN. Hindi dapat baguhin ito," he said.

[Translation: The disconnect on the part of economic managers' point of view. They believe the economy is doing well, therefore, TRAIN is beneficial and should not be changed.]

"Para sa ordinaryong mamamayan...napakahirap na ng buhay dahil sa pagtaas ng fuel prices," Tinio said.

[Translation:For ordinary citizens, life has been very difficult due to the rise of fuel prices.]

Tinio said wage must be increased to help people keep up with rising costs.

"Dun sa punto de vista ng mga mahihirap at saka mga ordinaryong manggagawa, na sobrang pabigat ang TRAIN at dapat itaas ang sweldo sa disenteng antas," he said.

[Translation: The point of view of poor citizens and ordinary workers is that TRAIN is a burden and wages should be raised to a decent level.]

Tinio's statements came after labor groups called for wage increase.

In the House of Representatives, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) filed on Thursday a bill to increase the minimum wage nationwide by 320. The Makabayan Bloc on Monday filed the National Minimum Wage Bill that aims for equal wage at P750 in all regions.

The Labor Department has ordered its wage boards to speed up the review to increase the salary of minimum wage workers in several regions amid rising prices of goods.

On June 1, Senator Grace Poe said amendments to the TRAIN law would have to be done when Congress tackles the second package of tax reforms proposed by the Department of Finance (DOF).

CNN Philippines' Xianne Arcangel, Pia Garcia, and Lucia De Guzman contributed to this report.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 3)  The internet is once again divided by the actions of President Rodrigo Duterte. But this time its over a kiss.

A video posted by state media PTV showed President Rodrigo Duterte calling two younger women up to the stage with him to give a book.

Duterte was in South Korea for an official visit, and met with overseas Filipino workers on Sunday.

The women took Dutertes hand and put it to their foreheads, the customary "mano" or amen to show respect to ones elders before moving to leave the stage.

Wag kang mag-amen-amen diyan. Oy, halika dito, Duterte said.

[Translation: Dont mano. Come back here.]

He then asked for a beso-beso [cheek kiss] from one of the women, but pointed to his lips when it was the other womans turn.

The crowd cheered when they kissed.

The video has been making rounds in social media since then, with various reactions from netizens.

Labaw paa nka hikap nka Kiss pa jud sa LIPS! wahahahaha pagka bugoya jud Tatay Digong oi, commented Rolanda Ortiaga on the Facebook video.

[Translation: He got a hug and a kiss on the lips. Wahahaha Tatay Digong is so mischievous.]

Komedya yan para masaya. Ganyan ang binisaya na harutan.. Patawa hindi seryosohin, commented Anacleto Solana on the Facebook video.

[Translation: Thats a comedy to make people happy. Thats how Bisayas joke around. Its a joke so it doesnt need to be taken seriously.]

Meanwhile, Renato Reyes, Jr. said that hes having a hard time processing the events.

Medyo shocked pa ako sa napanood ko kaya nasulat ko ito. Di ko pa na-process, Reyes said on Facebook.

[Translation: I was shocked by what I saw thats why I wrote this post. Im havent processed it yet.]

On the other hand, RJ Barrete said that the act was unpresidential.

This is not an issue of who initiated it, not even about consent because obviously, power was at play, Barrete said on Facebook. And most importantly, as the President of a country you dont initiate an act like this in an official event!Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 3)  President Rodrigo Duterte said Sunday he would raise "environmental concerns" with potential investors during his three-day visit in South Korea this weekend.

"We welcome infrastructure, factories and all, but we must protect the environment," Duterte said an hour before boarding a commercial flight to Seoul early Sunday.

"I want them also to see how the extent of the damage to the interest of the country had been so we can understand each other. The Philippines can only take so much," Duterte said.

The President particularly cited the destruction brought by open-pit mining companies, but did not mention if these include South Korean firms. Open-pit mining, an internationally allowed method of extracting mineral ore, is allowed under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

Duterte earlier said he would rather forego revenue from the mining industry than risk further damage to the environment.

The President however expects the bilateral meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-In will greatly benefit Mindanao, considering potential investments it would bring to the country.

He said he will seek a "reinvigorated partnership" in defense and security, trade and investment, and political cooperation.

Duterte will also meet members of the Filipino community at the Grand Hilton Hotel and Convention Center on Sunday afternoon.

On Monday, Duterte will meet with Moon at the Blue House to sign four bilateral agreements:

Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and South Korea's Ministry of Land, Industry and Transport

Memorandum of Understanding on scientific and technological cooperation between the Department of Science and Technology, and South Korea's Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning

Loan agreement on the new Cebu International Container Port project between the Department of Finance and Export-Import Bank of Korea

Memorandum of Understanding on trade and economic cooperation between the Department of Trade and Industry, and South Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy

On Tuesday, Duterte will speak before potential Korean investors and grace the Emart Philippine Food Festival.Reciba en su email: noticias de ultima hora, analisis tecnicos o el cierre de mercado

Email no valido Nombre requerido Recibira las informaciones mas relevantes del dia en tiempo real Que informacion desea recibir? Noticias de Ultima hora Boletin Cierre de Mercado Boletin analisis tecnico Boletin Fundsnews Debe seleccionar un tipo de boletin Acepto la Politica de privacidad Debe aceptar la politica de privacidad Responsable EMPRESAS DEL GRUPO WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Finalidad La remision de informacion, novedades y promociones Establecimiento o mantenimiento de Relaciones Comerciales. Legitimacion Consentimiento del interesado. Interes legitimo en el desarrollo de la relacion comercial Destinatario Empresas del Grupo WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Derechos Acceso, rectificacion, supresion, limitacion, oposicion y portabilidad Informacion adicional Politica de Privacidad de nuestra pagina Web + INFORMACIONBRISTOL TOWNSHIP >> Bucks County District Attorney Matt Weintraub has announced the creation of a reward fund to help solve three killings in Bristol Township. The reward through Bucks County Crime Stoppers was funded by donations from State Rep. John Galloway, State Rep. Tina Davis and the law firm of Stark & Stark. The unsolved cases are the murder of...| BY Kim Shaw |

McCann Australia has announced the appointment of new Head of Talent, Robert Stone, who has joined the agency today based in Melbourne as the agency continues its commitment to unleashing the industrys leading creative talent for both new and existing employees.

Previously located at McCann London, Stone is a member of McCann Worldgroup Global Diversity and Inclusion Coalition and the IPAs Talent Leadership Committee.

The appointment follows the recent hires within the agencies production and creative departments, following the implementation of the XBC agency model, pulling together the best minds from the various companies under one roof.

In addition to being able to identify, convert and successfully hire the best talent from all corners of the globe, Stone was behind the introduction of global brand PANDORA Jewelry (Global) to the vast portfolio of McCann clients.

Previously the Global Digital Talent Partner for Adidas, Stone oversaw the major sporting brands largest recruitment initiative in the history of the business. He was responsible for building and enhancing Adidass digital offering across Germany, Amsterdam, London, Brazil, Moscow, New York, Paris, Tokyo & Shanghai.

Says Zain Hoosen, COO and Acting CEO, McCann Australia: We are delighted to have Robert join our team as head of talent. His passion for people and expertise in attracting high calibre talent has helped create some of the best-known advertising campaigns and we have no doubt he will continue this momentum in Australia.Notice for the Postmedia Network

This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.Photo: Contributed

Construction is expected to begin Monday on infrastructure upgrades along sections of Webber and McAllister roads in West Kelowna.

The city will construct sidewalks, replace water mains replacement and fix roads.

The overall project includes:

450 metres of sidewalk near Glenrosa Elementary School

1.2 kilometres of road rehabilitation

1.68 kilometres of watermain replacement

The cost of the project is $2.8 million and it's scheduled for completion on Sept. 1.

Access to individual properties will be maintained for the duration of construction, however, residents may experience some traffic disruptions.Photo: Contributed

Join our wine writer, Allison Markin, every week for a wine review complete with food and music pairings. Featuring Okanagan and Canadian wines, with an occasional international bottle, Castanet celebrates the bottles of our Valley and the diversity of the Canadian wine industry and influences from around the world. For current availability and pricing, consult the winery. Unless indicated, international selections are generally available at government liquor stores or private wine shops.

Wine: Stellaport, Non-Vintage

Winery: Elephant Island, Naramata

Why drink it? This is your LAST CHANCE to get this exquisite fruit wine that has, quite literally, been in the making for 15 years. Made in the solera style, a Spanish technique common to ports and sherries, the mother barrel (in this case, from 2001), is the beginning, then each year half of the vintage is bottled, and half is reserved for the next vintage. Apologies to the winery for borrowing their tasting notes, but they say it best: elegant and richbutterscotch, caramel, coconut and vanilla from prolonged barrel aging providing the perfect complement to the still fresh note of July-ripened Naramata cherries.

Price: $45

Pair with: The flavour of deep, ripe, cherries dipped in dark chocolate is the hallmark of this wine, so a selection of dark chocolates is a given. As with sweet wines, a contrasting flavour such as an aged cheese is a delight, or simply savour this taste of the Naramata Bench on its own.

Music pairing: Cherry Cherry by Neil Diamond

Have a wine to suggest? Email Allison at [email protected]Photo: Contributed Chris Gorman

There will be at least one vacant seat when Central Okanagan residents elect a new Board of Education in the fall.

Two-term trustee Chris Gorman has announced his name will not be on the ballot when voters go to the polls Oct. 20.

I sought elected office seven years ago because I wanted to support a public education system that prepares all of our students  including my children  for the 21st century and inspires them to contribute to society," said Gorman in a statement Friday.

Representing the citizens of Kelowna on the Central Okanagan Board of Education has been one of my greatest honours and privileges.

He said when he was first elected in 2011, it was his intention to serve no more than two terms.

"It's time to pass the baton," he says.

Gorman was second in voting for school trustee in 2011, and topped the polls four years ago.

Over the last seven years, he says he has supported innovation in our classrooms, interacted with students and teachers to understand their needs, interests and ambitions, and tackled tough issues facing our public education system and the school district.

He has also been a vocal supporter of student learning, acknowledging the important role of teachers and responding to the concerns of citizens.

Gorman hinted at other public service down the road, but says he is undecided as to what that may be.Photo: Shelley Duke An iced tea stand has been set up near Goudie Road at the Highway 33 closure.

Some entrepreneurial-minded kids are taking advantage of the long waits on Highway 33, as the road closure has been extended by three days.

Highway 33, eight kilometres east of Kelowna at the hairpin corner, has been fully closed during the day since May 30, to allow for road work to be completed.

Traffic is being detoured along Goudie Road, with the help of a pilot car, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., while the highway is open to single-lane, alternating traffic at night.

The closure was originally scheduled until June 5, but it has since been extended until June 8.

Two young Joe Rich residents set up an iced tea and snacks stand on the west side of the closure, to provide sustenance for motorists stuck in the lineup.

Residents are handling crisis with the hairpin as best they can, wrote Shelley Duke of the Joe Rich Road Improvement Committee.

Commercial vehicles with more than six axles are not permitted on Goudie Road, and can only travel along the highway after 9 p.m.William Shatner becomes the oldest man to go into space

ShowbizPhoto: Chantelle Deacon

Most Okanagan residents woke up to rain and dark clouds looming over the valley this morning.

About 10 millimetres of rain is expected for parts of the Okanagan Valley, with precipitation ending by midnight.

The temperature is still expected to surpass 20 degrees across most of the Okanagan on Sunday.

The rain comes after a very dry May, with less than four millimetres of rain in the past couple weeks.

Environment Canada forecasts a 30 per cent chance of showers on Monday to kick off the work week.

The weather is expected to brighten up by Tuesday and throughout the rest of the week with temperatures hitting the mid-twenties by Wednesday.Photo: okrailtrail

The Okanagan Rail Trail just received a boost from Mountain Equipment Co-op.

A donation of $45,000 has been donated by MEC towards the development of the popular trail to help reach the goal of $7.8 million.

MEC exists to get people active outdoors, its what we do, said Wade Janzen, Regional Sustainability and Community Investor Coordinator at MEC.

Were hoping this funding encourages others to donate and help finish the trail.

Construction on the 48 kilometre long trail started in October 2017 and only $150,000 more is needed to reach the goal amount to complete the project.

If you'd like to donate you can do so online here.Photo: Contributed Two vehicle collision in Ellison on June 3, 2018.

First responders rushed to a two-vehicle collision in Kelowna on Sunday morning.

Once on scene at Old Vernon Road and Scotty Creek firefighters found a damaged vehicle in the middle of the road and another vehicle into a fence.

The two-vehicle collision appears to have happened just after 10:30 a.m.

It is not clear what caused the collision or the extent of injuries.Photo: Kamloops SAR Stock image of Kamloops Search and Rescue vehicle.

A missing mushroom picker was found safely by search and rescue crews near Loon Lake.

Kamloops Search and Rescue, South Cariboo SAR, Nicola Valley SAR, Hummingbird Drones and Police Dog Services responded to the area late Saturday after they received reports that the man was missing.

The man was located safely and in good condition.

Kamloops Search and Rescue members are concerned this will be the first of many calls for missing pickers this year.

We are reminding foragers to research the area, be prepared with essentials, let someone know where you are going and when you are expected back, said Kamloops SAR on Twitter.

They are expecting this year to be a huge mushroom picking season with people coming from all over North America.Videos

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If missed delivery or wet paper please call our office 909-628-5501 ext 110 Leave a detailed message with name, address, and phone number. Readers must call before 1 p.m. on Saturday. Re-deliveries are available for Chino residents until 1 p.m. Saturdays.

Click HereTensions temporarily eased on May 19 after China promised to "significantly increase" its purchases of U.S. farm, energy and other products. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said then that the U.S. tariffs were suspended and the trade war was "on hold." The purchases are meant to reduce America's massive trade deficit in goods and services with China, which last year came to $337 billion, according to the U.S. Commerce Department.New York police say the shot was fired outside the W Hotel in midtown Manhattan around 4:40 a.m. Saturday. They couldn't say whether 22-year-old Chief Keef, whose real name is Keith Farrelle Cozart, was the target.Its a hard enough time for a woman, and they look at you and say, I want to do what you think is best, and you have to say, Unfortunately, youre in a group where theres uncertainty,  Albain said. Now Im going to say, Hey, you dont need it. Look at these numbers, youre going to be fine. An autopsy on Thursday determined Edmonson, of the same block on Washington Boulevard, died of blunt trauma to the head that he suffered during an assault and his death was ruled a homicide, according to the medical examiners office.West Bend police say officers found 160 snakes, more than 250 mice, as well as geckos and frogs in the house Thursday. The snakes ranged from 6 inches to 2 feet in length.There was in that last ragged campaign of his, this sense of the possible, of the new, of fundamental, systemic change. There was this sense of a more compassionate America waiting just below the horizon. There was, in a word, hope. Or as Rep. John Lewis, then a campaign aide, consoled himself in the grim weeks after Martin Luther King was murdered in Memphis: At least we still have Bobby.As recently appointed Police Chief Alfonso Morales, city leaders and community groups reckon today with the legacies of these historical realities, they would do well to heed Sterling Brown's call to take on the systemic roots of racialized police violence in Milwaukee and invest in solutions that empower rather than continue to alienate black citizens - no matter their fame. Brown's unjust tasing and arrest demonstrate that across the country, real police reform will require constant vigilance and ever greater community participation. While releasing the body-camera video, suspending three officers involved and requiring policy review courses - as Morales did - are good initial steps, those in power know they must do more to build police legitimacy. As Mayor Tom Barrett stated, "I think it's an opportunity for us to do better. ... We have to do better."This is not an African-American versus Italian-American issue, but rather about how we should honor a great American. Wells embodies all that Chicago holds dear: someone who worked hard to overcome the circumstances of her birth, who moved to Chicago to escape persecution, who raised her family here. She brought people together, fought for civil rights, and was one of the most important journalists in American history. Gen. Italo Balbo was an Italian  not an Italian-American  who visited Chicago for a few days, then went back to developing the military forces that fought against the United States in World War II.When an officer observes a violation, and the offender refuses to comply with a lawful order, what is that officer to do? Say to hell with it and walk away? Many people in our society have the opinion that the law applies to everyone but me; officers deal with that every day. Careful of the day when the police start doing just that, walking away.In the case of my son, his shooting was all over jealousy about a girl, he said. In terms of gun violence and things getting better, the horse is out of the gate. The doors have opened and we need to continue to work with those that have been elected and have common sense gun laws.Preliminary investigation showed that lightning strikes caused forest fires in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Saturday, according to the national forest fire prevention headquarters.

No casualties or damage of major facilities have been reported so far, it said.

A fire broke out at around 10 a.m. Saturday in a primeval forest in the northern area of the Greater Hinggan Mountains in the region. The fire has engulfed around 30 hectares of forest in this area.

Another fire in a national nature reserve was found at around 5 p.m. and the fire has spread to about 200 hectares.

Nearly 2,000 forest police and fire fighters have been mobilized to battle forest fires. Eight helicopters have also been sent to the sites to put out fires.Experts are calling for the development of regulations governing share nurse services, as the new model of medical care is rolled out in east China's Shandong and Fujian provinces, reports Chinanews.com.

A growing number of mobile apps allow users to book a nurse to provide home-based care, including postoperative care, and traditional Chinese medicine.

According to a staff member working with one of the service providers, the nurses should have a license to practice. The platform also purchases insurance for the nurses and patients.

Share nurses can help address the basic care needs of the elderly, along with medical care for discharged patients, while at the same time helping nurses to boost their professional value and income, says Lin Xingfeng, from the Shandong University Second Hospital. But Lin also points out that patients with specific needs have to be matched with nurses that have relevant skills, and regulations are needed to deal with the potential medical and legal risks associated with the services.

But Zhang Hu, a partner at Deheng Law Offices in Jinan, has a blunt warning about the legal risks attached to these services. "The service offered by registered share nurses violates the current practicing regulations, and is illegal."Zhao Kangmin, the archaeologist who discovered the Terracotta Warriors, passed away on May 16 at the age of 82 after a lifetime of studying China's cultural relics, reports Beijing Youth Daily.

Zhao was the first expert to arrive at the burial site of the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an when it was uncovered in 1974. The discovery was the start of a decades-long excavation of one of the wonders of the ancient world.

"Zhao Kangmin was the first true discoverer of the Terracotta Warriors, and their importance. Also, he is one of the pioneers of the excavation of the relic site. He devoted his whole life to working on cultural relics and museums, and participated in the excavation and study of many important relic sites, making some indelible contributions," said Hou Ningbin, head of the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum.

Zhao directed excavations at some of China's other important relic sites, including the Ginger Village from the Neolithic Era, the Qingshan Temple from the Tang Dynasty (A.D. 618-907), and the Huaqing Palace of the Tang Dynasty.

Years of hard work in the field took a heavy toll on Zhao's health, contributing to the development of stomach and lung disease. But illness wasn't enough to stop him from working: In the last month of his life, Zhao was still busy at work studying epigraphs from the Tang Dynasty.

The news of Zhao's death reverberated around China, and also around the world, so great was his presence in the world of Chinese archaeology. The BBC, The Telegraph, and The New York Times all praised Zhao's contribution to the discovery and preservation of the Terracotta Warriors.



 Flash

China on Saturday expressed the hope and support for efforts by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the United States to meet each other halfway.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said that the Chinese side hopes and supports the DPRK and the United States to actively push forward preparations for their coming summit.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday that he will meet with leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un on June 12 in Singapore as originally scheduled after recent twists and turns.

The DPRK and the United States have recently made positive progress on the summit, an important step to solving the Korean Peninsula issue politically. The Chinese side is "happy" for that, said Hua.

Hua reiterated that the current situation on the Korean Peninsula is at a rare historical juncture. The summit between the DPRK and the United States is crucial to denuclearization and lasting peace on the peninsula.

She said that China expects the DPRK and the United States to reach an outcome that both sides and the international community want, so as to open a new era of denuclearization, peace and prosperity. Flash

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was sworn in on Saturday as the President of Egypt for a second term until 2022, state-run Nile TV reported.



In a large ceremony held in the parliament, Sisi took the oath as president with the words "I swear to protect the republican system, to respect the constitution and the law, to safeguard the people's interests, and to preserve the independence of the nation and the unity of lands."

Egyptian air force fighters and helicopters hovered over the former military chief's motorcade as he approached parliament headquarters.

The ceremony was attended by cabinet members, top security officials, Grand Imam of al-Azhar Ahmad el-Tayyeb, Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II, and Grand Mufti Shawki Allam.

TV footages showed the parliament building, located in downtown Cairo, was decorated with Egyptian flags and people were waving for the president motorcade.

Ahead of the speech, the swearing-in ceremony started with the national anthem and a celebratory 21-gun salute.

"We managed to cross very difficult stage towards a future with more stability," the president said after taking the oath.

After focusing on the economic reforms in his first term, Sisi added he will give the priority in the coming four years to health and education issues.

"Education, health and cultural issues will top my priorities through launching a number of national mega projects and programs aiming at improving the living standards of the Egyptian citizens," the president said.

"Leading a country like Egypt is really great and difficult," he added in his speech to the nation.

The president reiterated that "Egypt will carry on its efforts for promoting the international ties in light of partnerships."

"The Egyptian state will constantly boost its balanced relations with all regional and international parties, within the framework of partnership and exchange of interests," he said.

Referring to the different segments and religious affiliations in Egypt, President Sisi said that "acceptance and creating a common ground among us will be my top priority in order to attain consistence, social peace as well as political development."

"I am a president for all Egyptians, those who agree with me and others who do not," he added.

"I will not exclude anyone from this common space except those who choose violence, terrorism and extremist thought as a way to impose their will," the president stressed.

Tariq Fahmy, professor of political sciences with American University in Cairo, said the president's speech constitutes "a work plan for the coming term, because it included several pillars that will be the base for the government's performance in the following four year."

In the speech, the president attempted to send a significant message that he will focus more on the issues that are important to the citizens' daily lives like education, health, culture and social protection, Fahmy told Xinhua.

The expert believes that President Sisi will give more attention to social cohesion after economic reforms were adopted in the first term.

The speech, despite short, has also pointed out that economic reform and fighting terrorism, the country's two major endeavors of the last four years, will be advanced as main approaches for strengthening stability of the country, the expert reiterated.

Sisi won his second term with 97 percent of the votes in Egypt's 2018 presidential election.

His first oath was performed at the Supreme Constitutional Court in 2014.

The last presidential inauguration held at Egypt's parliament was in 2005, when ousted President Hosni Mubarak was sworn in as president for the fifth and the last time. Flash

Pedro Sanchez was sworn in as new prime minister of Spain on Saturday, 24 hours after Mariano Rajoy was defeated in a no-confidence motion in the Spanish Congress.

Sanchez was sworn in by King Felipe VI at the royal residence at the Palacio de a Zarzuela on Saturday morning.

The leader of the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) automatically became Rajoy's replacement as prime minister after presenting the motion which led to Rajoy and his right-wing People's Party (PP) losing power in the wake of the result of the "Gurtel" corruption trial on May 24, in which the PP was found guilty of having benefited economically from wide-scale cash-for-favors scandal.

It is the first time a Spanish prime minister has come to power as the result of a no-confidence vote, with Rajoy obtaining 169 votes against the motion, and 180 in favour and one abstention.

Sanchez becomes the prime minister with a weak government given that the PSOE currently holds just 85 seats in the 350-member Spanish Congress.

That means Sanchez will have to reach agreement with the left wing Unidos Podemos party, who have 71 seats, and a variety of Basque and Catalan parties, among others to pass any legislation.

Meanwhile, he will have to deal with the opposition of the 137 PP deputies in Congress as well as the 32 members of the center-right party Ciudadanos who voted against Sanchez' no-confidence vote on Friday.You are here: World

 Flash

India Sunday successfully test-fired a surface-to-surface nuclear capable intercontinental ballistic missile Agni-V off Abdul Kalam Island in its eastern sate of Odisha, local media reported.

The home-grown ballistic missile was blast-off at 9:50 a.m. local time.

Local media reports quoted defense officials as saying that the test was conducted from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) on the island.

"The longest range nuclear capable missile was test- fired clear sky and started rising exactly the way it was designed for," India's Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) was quoted as saying.

"The flight performance of the missile having a range of 5,000 km was tracked and monitored by radars, range stations and tracking systems all through the mission."

The first test of Agni-V was conducted in 2012.LVP Interim President Merilyn Temakon signs the constitution of the party witnessed by other LVP Interim Executive Committee members who signed after the President.Jonas Cullwick, a former General Manager of VBTC is now a Senior Journalist with the Daily Post. Contact: [email protected]. Cell # 678 5460922CJI invita elevii si elevele claselor gimnaziale si liceale sa participe la instruirea Materiale video de calitate si cu impact  cum le realizam?Well, then let's get to the meat of this, shall we? You say you are pro-abortion. I would say that I am pro-choice. in other words, I think that abortion should be a personal choice best left to the person involved- the woman in particular.



Now, you claim states' rights. Do you think states' rights should trump individual rights? It appears to me that in this case you do. However, in other threads you have claimed that individual rights should come first. So which is it? I've seen you complain about the state "stealing" things from you, but in this case, you seem to be in favor of the state. So pardon my confusion.For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript. Here are the instructions how to enable JavaScript in your web browserSyrian President to meet Kim Jong Un in North Korea, report says



Days before Kim Jong Un is set to meet US President Donald Trump in Singapore, the North Korean leader is revealing plans to meet yet another leader -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.



Assad will visit Kim in North Korea, the latter country's state news agency KCNA said Sunday. The report did not specify a date for the meeting, and Syrian state media has so far not reported on the planned visit.

If the meeting takes place in Pyongyang, it would be the first time a world leader has visited Kim in the capital.



The announcement comes at a time of increased international diplomacy for Kim, who in recent months has met with South Korean President Moon Jae-in in the demilitarized zone that divides the two countries, caught an eye-catching train to China for a meeting with President Xi Jinping, and last week met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Pyongyang.



Trump has said he will meet with Kim on June 12 , and on Friday with a former North Korean spy chief -- the highest-level North Korean official to visit the US in 18 years.



In anticipation of the meeting with the North Korean leader, Assad received his credentials from the nation's ambassador Wednesday, according to KCNA.



The report quoted Assad as saying: "The world welcomes the remarkable events in the Korean peninsula brought about recently by the outstanding political caliber and wise leadership of HE (His Excellency) Kim Jong Un."

"I am sure that he will achieve the final victory and realize the reunification of Korea without fail," it added.



The report referred to the close ties between the two countries, and quoted Assad as saying Syria would "fully support all policies and measures" of the North Korean leadership.while the fact that Trump is easily one of the worst presidents ever at least hes providing us with some comic gems!President Donald Trump on Friday talked warmly to reporters about the very nice and very interesting letter he received earlier in the day from North Koreas leader, Kim Jong Un.That letter was a very nice letter, Trump said at a White House news conference. Oh, would you like to see what was in that letter? How much? How much? he quipped with the press.The letter was hand-delivered to the president by senior North Korean official Kim Yong Chol. The two men posed with the very large envelope in the Oval Office. After Trump received the letter, he announced that the June 12 summit with North Korea was on again in Singapore.When asked if he could offer a flavor of what the letter said, Trump said: It was a very interesting letter. At some point, it may be appropriate and maybe Ill be able to give it to you, maybe.But mere minutes later, in response to another question, the president responded: I havent seen the letter yet. I purposely didnt open the letter. I havent opened it. I didnt open it in front of the director. I said, Would you want me to open it? He said, You can read it later.He added: I may be in for a big surprise, folks.Its a very nice and interesting letter but he hasnt read it yet.This man says these things. In public. With cameras there and everything.Since the acquisition of the Norwegian Prox Dynamics company in 2016 FLIR Systems scored several important sales of Proxs Black Horner PD-100 Personal Reconnaissance System (PRS). Over the years the companies delivered over 5,000 PRS units to 20 customers worldwide, mostly counter-terrorist and special weapons and techniques (SWAT) teams and special forces. At present FLIR continues to manufacture the PRS in Norway.

So far, the regular military was not too receptive to the miniature drone, considering it too delicate and expensive for field operation by non-specialists. But this perception is changing. In the recent months, the Black Hornet has been fielded with two new customers  the Australian and Dutch armies, while an enhanced system  Black Hornet III is undergoing testing with the US Army and Marine Corps, toward an acquisition of dozens of systems by the U.S. Army, for fielding with an entire infantry brigade.

The PD-100 was first deployed by the Norwegian and British forces in 2013, when Prox received their first orders, under an urgent operational requirement (UOR) worth 25 million. At the time the Brits wanted to improve situational awareness for their troops in Afghanistan and the PRS was called to provide remote surveillance to improve force protection and counterinsurgency. Upon their return to their homeland, in 2015 the Black Hornet program was discontinued.

More recently, other countries began evaluating these nano drones as personal surveillance capability organic to infantry squads and platoons. The Australians pioneered this approach, deploying a large number of drones for testing with troops. Following extensive evaluation, the Australian Defense allocated A$18 million by the end of 2017 to field the flying sensors as an organic surveillance and reconnaissance supporting the combat brigades at the platoon and troop level.

UAS are a game-changer for the Army, providing enhanced situational awareness for better mission execution for Australian soldiers, Commander 6th Brigade, Brigadier Susan Coyle said. Currently, the 6th Brigade operates the Australian Armys only UAS unit  the 20th Surveillance Target Acquisition Regiment. By the end of the year, the PRS will be deployed with the 7th Combat Brigade down to Platoon level, becoming the first Army fielding such capabilities with the regular force. Deploying with every squad in the brigades reconnaissance units. The Australian Army is now the biggest user of Nano UAS in the world. It is also the first in the world to proliferate this technology to the conventional forces down to combat platoon level, Brigadier Coyle said.

The US Army also plans to deploy the PRS at the squad level. Although the acquisition of 61 Black Hornet III small unmanned aerial systems was approved this year, the U.S. Army plans to evaluate other soldier borne sensors from different vendors in October 2018 by the by Soldiers from 7th Infantry Division.

At a weight of 1.3 kg, the nano-UAS system packs two Black Hornet flying sensors stored in a docking station that also includes the display console, batteries, charger and the communications terminal. Weighing only 18 grams, each miniature helicopter can fly for 20-25 minutes, at a speed of 18 km/h, out to a distance of 1,500 meters (line of sight) from the user. Preparation to flight is intuitive and takes about 60 seconds. Two cameras The miniature helicopter operates two cameras, one taking live video and the other shooting stills. Images and live video are streamed simultaneously, to the users monitor, over an encrypted data link. The system is also equipped with thermal imaging, which gives it night vision capability.

Similar to the modern miniature multirotors, at such a low weight the nano-drone is vulnerable to wind conditions although it can withstand gusts below 12 m/s. The Black Hornet III variant developed for the US Army employs a dedicated, encrypted datalink and includes three nano drones, enabling users to extend the missions to 2.5 hours (150 minutes).

The Black Hornet is not designed for long-term surveillance. Each system comprises two micro UAVs, (the U.S. bound Black Hornet III carries three) to sustain continuous operation for 2.5 hours, since, as one Black Hornet is aloft, another battery can be charged and ready when it returns. Although the operation of the system is intuitive, it takes about 16 hours to fully train a soldier to pilot, use and maintain the system and achieve effective operational use said According to Capt. WaiWah Ellison, the assistant program manager for Soldier Borne Sensors, at the US Army PEO Soldier.

According to information released by FLIR Systems, the Black Hornet III helicopter weighs 32 grams, slightly more than previous models. It offers several improvements over previous versions, such as improved speed and distance, with the ability to fly two kilometers at speeds of over 21 km/h. Its sensors support sharper imaging processing, featuring the FLIR Lepton thermal microcamera core and a visible sensor, allowing greater image fidelity. An improved encrypted military-approved digital datalink supports beyond line-of-sight (BLOS) and operations indoors. The system supports the military standard Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK), to interface with battlefield networks and distribute information to anyone on the network.

The nano helicopter flies autonomously to follow waypoints marked by the user on an aerial map, or controlled manually using an intuitive handle that comes with the kit. The system has a low acoustic signature and is virtually inaudible even from a short distance. At such a low weight it is inherently safe to fly near people, therefore, it can operate almost anywhere at any time without prior airspace coordination. As these miniature aerial vehicles have a minimally audible signature and visual profile, they are virtually undetectable, even from extremely short distances.Amid the cacophony of claims and rival claims over our departure from the EU, theres one fact we can all agree on. Brexit Day itself is now just nine months away and time is not on the UKs side.

This period will shape the future of Britains relationship with Europe for decades to come.

As we approach the second anniversary in a few weeks time of the fateful referendum, the negotiations with Brussels  already difficult  are about to become even tougher. So last week I went to No10 with colleagues Amber Rudd and Justine Greening to assure the Prime Minister that, far from being isolated in her search for a pragmatic, workable solution, she does in fact have widespread support from her party.

That may surprise readers used to the clamour from arch-Brexiteers and die-hard Remainers alike on the Tory benches. But it is time for those two camps to face reality.

At this crucial juncture, any politician who wants a successful outcome for Britain needs to choose their words carefully.

I am afraid that even my friend, the intelligent and energetic Jacob Rees-Mogg, who runs the European Research Group inside the Conservative Party, occasionally lapses by not choosing his words carefully, writes Damian Green

Every Minister who goes to Brussels is struck by how closely domestic British arguments are followed there  and how they can be used against our vital national interests.

Many of us have had the experience of warning European leaders that just because an anonymous senior figure is quoted in the press predicting doom and failure, or citing hopeless divisions within Government, this should not be taken as gospel truth.

This is a danger at the moment because the British negotiating team, from the Prime Minister down, has to be able to reach agreement on two separate fronts.

They have to come up with proposals which they can agree with the EU leaders. Then these proposals need to gain the approval of Parliament.

Of course, the EU side knows this only too well.

So the more the British side is restricted by domestic noises off, the tougher the stance the EU side will feel confident in taking. This cannot help Britains case. One very damaging and misguided line of argument is that Britain is all-powerful in these negotiations, so the mere threat of our walking away will bring the Europeans promptly to heel. This is not just a misnomer: the fact that it is so clearly unrealistic has the effect of making Britain look even weaker.

I am afraid that even my friend, the intelligent and energetic Jacob Rees-Mogg, who runs the European Research Group inside the Conservative Party, occasionally lapses in this way.

Last week he overstated our negotiating strength in an obviously misleading way by claiming that the EU was under pressure to strike a deal because we buy more from them than they do from us by 100billion a year.

All that tells us is that there are 450 million Europeans wanting to sell to us and only 65 million Brits selling to them.

Pictured l-r: Justine Greening MP leaving Downing Street with Amber Rudd MP and Damian Green MP last week

We all buy and sell to each other. While, indeed, 18 per cent of their exports come to us, a whopping 44 per cent of ours head across the Channel to other EU countries. No wonder British manufacturers are nervous. However, it is still clearly in the interests of both sides to strike a deal.

The steel tariff war with America highlights the need to retain strong pan-European ties  the better to flex our combined trading muscles. However, a deal is essential not just to keep trade flowing but to ensure our mutual security. Without the UK contribution to policing and anti-terrorism, the whole of Europe would be less safe.

If, for example, the European Commission continues to insist on removing the UK from the satellite communication system Galileo, then Europe as a whole will have a less effective and more expensive GPS tracking system. How exactly does that serve the people of the EU? So we do have some cards to play.

The Europeans should not be over-influenced by those who make the most noise at the two extremes of the argument in the UK, from some of Jacobs followers  who would be happiest if we made no deal at all  to those who want to rerun the referendum.

From the amount of heat generated by these two viewpoints, you would be excused for assuming that everyone in Britain either wants nothing to do with the EU ever again, or wants to carry on as though the vote never happened.

I believe this is a misreading of the public mood, and I know that this is not an accurate picture of the majority view inside the Conservative Party.

The centre of gravity on the issue is that we took a decision in 2016 and the Governments job is to make a deal that returns the powers people wanted exercised at home while minimising any damage to our economy that would come through barriers to trade.

If that means deciding to keep some of our rules the same as the EU rules for pragmatic reasons, then as long as we are taking that decision ourselves, its fine.

As to what this means in detail, I am afraid that at this point we are in danger of moving on to arguments about different customs arrangements  and for most people this is understandably the moment to tune out.

Certainly, if you are working in a car plant that depends on daily deliveries of parts from around Europe, or in an insurance company that wants to sell policies to other EU citizens, you mainly want to know that your job is not at risk.

Politicians making grand warnings in Churchillian-sounding phrases about becoming a vassal state dont help pay the bills.

The British people have always been a practical breed.

This will be a source of strength for a supremely pragmatic Prime Minister who can face the European negotiators across the table safe in the knowledge that her instincts are in tune with the people.

A country that voted 52/48 per cent to leave clearly wants Brexit but a Brexit that leaves us in a close and friendly relationship.

We were often rowdy tenants inside the European house. We can now become good neighbours.Yet another report last week lamenting the fact there are far too few women on the boards of FTSE 350 companies. The excuses given by men were predictable: I cant just appoint a woman because I want to and Shareholders just arent interested in the make-up of the board, so why should we be?

The outrage from women? Equally predictable. Amanda Mackenzie, chief executive of Business In The Community, said: As you read this list of excuses, you might think its 1918, not 2018. It reads like a script from a comedy parody, but its true.

Surely we can now tackle this once and for all. Maybe those that give credence to these excuses are the ones that are not up to sitting on boards and should move over.

Excuses made as a result of this latest report ranged from 'I can't just appoint a woman because I want to' and 'shareholders just aren't interested in the make-up of the board, so why should we be?'

Problem is, all those who bemoan the lack of women at the top are in denial about what it means to be a woman and how we operate. Let me explain.

When I was approached to be editor of Marie Claire in 1999, I was told my salary, that I would get a company car, be entitled to a bonus, dependent on how much money I made, and that I would have a seat on the board. I had no idea what being on a board meant, and felt to ask would make me seem stupid.

I was so shocked to be offered the job, I turned it down. The boss called me back. Is it about the package? No! Its not! I dont want more money. Keep it! Keep the car! Im fine with my 36-year-old Beetle. Its just Im too old. I dont think Im good enough. Im not thin enough.

I took the job, after much persuasion on my bosss part. And not a penny of extra money. At my first board meeting  in Paris; yikes!  I was terrified, and also very hungry. The French had no concept of veganism, and simply offered me some veg, swimming in meat juices, which I refused, causing much raising of pencilled brows. The French also had no concept of the new mania for celebrities replacing models on covers. When I showed my all-important autumn cover star, I was met with, Victoria Beckham, oo is she?

I wasnt aggressive enough to stand my ground. I covered up mistakes by my bosses. When I felt obliged to mention a long-standing member of staff was off on maternity leave, I was met with the comment: Well, just sack her. Something I refused to do.

Id always down cycle my gifts (bribes) from designers, promote and employ black and Asian women, let everyone go home early on a Friday, and made a point of putting older and curvier women on the cover.

I never did get that bonus, despite making a profit in the few years I was there: the small print specified the entire group of magazines had to be in the black, not just mine. Ah.

Even so, years later, a former female employee penned a piece headlined: Female bosses just want to be liked. You see? You simply cannot win.

So, the reason women arent on the board is not the fault of men. Its our fault. We simply conduct business in a different way. We dont always think we are right. We scare, quite easily in my case. We protect subordinates. We are not arrogant. Its not just that we have children and lives and housework, but that we have empathy. We see the person, not the job title.

When I was sacked after a ground-breaking special issue was published, I didnt shift the blame, as a man would do, and say, well, my boss gave me the OK! And, look at the rise in sales and publicity! I didnt demand a better package. When I was told to step down, I merely replied with a joke. That, well, I would, but Im wearing really difficult shoes.

It isnt men who need to change in order for us to get to the top. Its us.

Its not often a documentary changes your mind.

But at a screening of McQueen (opens on Friday), about the life and death of fashion designer Alexander McQueen, I learned that backstage at the notorious Highland Rape catwalk show, where models had staggered around, dishevelled, breasts and groins displayed, hed got his mum, Joyce, to make the models sandwiches and sausage rolls.

Misogynist turned gentleman.

Whod have thoughtThis is pretty much the end of Christian Europe. The old Commandment 'Thou Shalt Do No Murder' has been repealed, by the Irish vote to legalise abortion on demand.

There has always been some leeway about killing  mainly self-defence and Just War. But the great religion that formed European civilisation was always against the destruction of innocent life.

What follows isn't an argument about whether or even when abortion is right or wrong. I'll leave that to you. It is about what abortion is, and how the law works.

Oddly enough, when Britain relaxed its abortion laws 50 years ago, the issue wasn't as clear-cut as it was for Ireland last month. In the 1960s, we knew far less about unborn babies than we do now. There were no ultrasound scans.

This is pretty much the end of Christian Europe. The old Commandment 'Thou Shalt Do No Murder' has been repealed, by the Irish vote to legalise abortion on demand, writes Peter Hitchens. Pictured: Pro-choice campaigners celebrate the referendum result in Dublin

The miracles of medicine which nowadays frequently save tiny premature babies were unknown.

It was much easier for supporters of abortion to believe that unborn babies weren't really human  a belief they spread by their use of the chilly Latin word 'foetus'. They don't use Latin to describe anything else in their lives, so why do they use it in this case?

It was also possible to claim, as the legalisers did, that making abortion easier wouldn't turn it into a form of contraception.

Back in the 1960s, they argued it was all about a small number of desperate women forced against their will to have babies through no real choice of their own.

Who believes that now, when Britain has 180,000 abortions a year, many of them involving women who have undergone the procedure more than once before?

There was also a claim that there were many thousands of dangerous back-street abortions. But seek facts on this, and you will run into trouble.

At the time, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (in the British Medical Journal of April 2, 1966) said of such claims: 'These are without any secure factual foundation of which we are aware.'

They said there were, on average, 50 fatal abortion attempts each year in England and Wales. This was undoubtedly tragic and gruesome, but did it really justify legalising abortion on demand?

If Northern Ireland decides to relax its abortion laws, then the fact that Ireland has done so has no bearing on the matter at all, writes Hitchens. Pictured: Pro-choice protesters step up pressure for Northern Ireland to follow Ireland in liberalising abortion laws

Most people don't realise that before 1967 many legal abortions were already taking place in Britain (about 3,000 a year in NHS hospitals, probably many more in private clinics), just much more tightly regulated.

In short, Ireland has no real excuse for rushing to copy this country, which had taken its decision on the basis of several false assumptions, and in some ignorance of the facts about the unborn.

We went too far and still can't work out what to do about it. And Ireland had plenty of reasons to pause, or be a good deal more cautious.

But this was just as much about the overthrow of Ireland's Christian past as it was about abortion.

For good reasons and bad, much of Ireland has turned its back on its own faith.

And, like the rest of Europe, it has embraced the new religion of Selfism, whose chief commandment is 'Nobody has any right to tell me what to do with my own body'.

You can see why people might want to punish the Roman Catholic Church, which has certainly allowed and hidden sexual abuse and brutality.

But these things are not unknown in secular liberal organisations, from children's homes and old people's care homes to the BBC and the police.

The truth is that modern abortion campaigners (pro-choice pictured) are fervent dogmatists who impose their new ideology everywhere, on any excuse, writes Hitchens

Abortion has become a rallying point for the Selfist faith, a test of the new post-Christian version of virtue. How else can we explain the mad calls (many of them from 'Conservative' politicians in this country) to force Northern Ireland to follow suit?

These demands make no sense at all. The whole point of Ireland is that it is separate from the UK.

The whole point of devolved government in Stormont is that Northern Ireland makes its own rules on such things.

If Northern Ireland decides to relax its abortion laws, then the fact that Ireland has done so has no bearing on the matter at all.

The truth is that modern abortion campaigners are fervent dogmatists who impose their new ideology everywhere, on any excuse.

They know the truth about it. But they don't mind. They want a very different world from the one we grew up in, and now they are going to get it.

And once one vulnerable, voiceless minority has been classified as less than human, who will be next?

Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley (pictured with Police Federation chairman Mark Lindsay) is facing increasing pressure over the Northern Irish abortion issue

Beware...the Wild East is full of villains

How all the Russophobes hurried to believe in the faked death of the Russian Arkady Babchenko in Kiev last week. These people believe huge amounts of rubbish about Russia already.

They think (without proof or facts) the Kremlin stole the US presidency from Hillary Clinton and gave it to Donald Trump.

They claim that Russian planes and ships regularly violate our airspace and waters (they don't). So for them, this was an easy one.

It works the other way, too. The Russophobe BBC recently managed not to notice a major piece of real news  that Russia, like the USA, had called at the UN for an independent inquiry into the alleged gas attack at Douma in Syria.

How all the Russophobes hurried to believe in the faked death of the Russian Arkady Babchenko (pictured right) in Kiev last week, writes Hitchens

Instead they reported falsely that Moscow had 'rejected calls for an independent inquiry'.

But their gullibility was turned up to maximum as soon as they heard of Mr Babchenko's supposed death, a ludicrous fake involving bags of pig's blood, and the coldly cruel deception of Mrs Babchenko, all more Jeremy Thorpe than Sherlock Holmes.

Once Mr Babchenko had been resurrected by the buffoons of the Ukrainian KGB the next day, the main response of the anti-Russian media was not 'sorry, we messed up and didn't check properly because we're biased'.

It was 'how wicked of Mr Babchenko and Kiev to play into the hands of Putin by behaving in this way'. I'd say this.

Don't rush to conclusions too easily about this part of the world. The Wild East is a murky place, with more than one villain in it.

The Wild East is a murky place, with more than one villain in it, writes Hitchens. Pictured: Russian leader Vladimir Putin

It's easy to accuse the Kremlin of directly killing people because they are nasty, dishonest, violent and secretive, which they are.

But it's as likely that such murders (when genuine) are the work of gangsters not under direct government control.

I'd guess such gangsters probably killed the brave reporter Pavel Sheremet, whose car was blown up, captured rather spectacularly on CCTV, in Kiev in July 2016 shortly after he'd criticised pro-Western Ukrainian militia leaders and their links with organised crime.

But you heard less about that killing because it didn't fit the anti-Russian agenda. Just as Russia's call for an independent inquiry into the alleged Syrian gas outrage didn't fit the anti-Russian agenda.

Beware of this, when reading or watching coverage of this confusing region.

Wow! The BBC told the truth about divorce

I'm not sure what the makers of the BBC drama series The Split were trying to say with their story of glamorous lawyers making millions out of managing wars between rich, divorcing couples, starring the simultaneously luminous and miserable-looking Nicola Walker.

But what I got from it was the clear message that there's no marital problem that lawyers can't make even more wretched, and no marriage so bad that divorce can't make things worse, especially for the children.

In which case, let's look forward to the next series.

Convincing drama: Nicola Walker stars in BBC drama series The Split

Ludicrous alleged Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson was wonderfully cut off by Richard Madeley on ITV's Good Morning Britain, as he completely failed to even try to answer the question that had been put to him.

The only thing that would have made the clip better would have been if the elephant strolling by at the time had done something rude on camera.

Let us have more discourtesy to useless politicians who refuse to speak honestly to us.

If you want to comment on Peter Hitchens click hereAustralians love an awe-inspiring renovation - House Rules and The Block are testament to that.

But often it feels as though we don't have the time, finances or desire to uproot our current living conditions in an attempt to make them better.

One Adelaide woman, who purchased a crumbling townhouse for $515,000 earlier this year, could serve as motivation for us all - turning her investment into a $45,000 profit when she sold the home three months later.

 Slide me  The kitchen was completely changed with the previously mustard-coloured bench tops transformed into a pristine white that opens into an expansive dining room

One Adelaide woman, who purchased a crumbling townhouse for $515,000 earlier this year, could serve as motivation for us all (pictured before the renovation)

She turned her investment into a $45,000 profit when she sold the home three months later (pictured after the renovation)

The home at 13 Figtree Court was never meant to be sold so quickly, Realestate.com.au reports, with the owner originally renovating it to such a high standard for her own needs.

But a change of circumstance meant she had to sell fast - much to the delight of the new home owners who get to enjoy the fruits of her labour.

'It was rewired, every surface was painted, the seventies ceiling was gyprocked, the floors were re-done, a study nook was turned into a third bedroom,' Selling agent Serg Belleli of Elders Glenelg said.

The home at 13 Figtree Court was never meant to be sold so quickly (the dining room pictured before)

But a change of circumstance meant she had to sell fast - much to the delight of the new home owners who get to enjoy the fruits of her labour (the renovated dining room)

He called the presentation, fixtures and fittings 'first class' - which is extremely apparent in the before and after photos.

The kitchen was completely changed with the previously mustard-coloured bench tops transformed into a pristine white that opens into an expansive dining room.

Many of the wooden cupboards were replaced and the timber wall trimmings taken down - both of which were aging the house by centuries.

Many of the wooden cupboards were replaced and the timber wall trimmings taken down - both of which were aging the house by centuries (the previous bathroom)

The bathroom was given a major overhaul with a polished walk-in shower and and circular mirror and basin (pictured)

The bathroom was given a major overhaul with a polished walk-in shower and and circular mirror and basin.

'Compared to prices in Sydney and Melbourne, this would have been a bargain given how close to the city it is,' Mr Belleli said.The hunt for a universally flattering nude lip colour is something many women spend hours seeking out.

But there is one product that women the world over agree suits every skin tone, hair colour and style - and that is makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk liner and matte lipstick.

The lip liner is such a global success that one of the $35 products sells every six seconds around the world.

It also boasts a host of glossy fans, from British It girl Alexa Chung to Gwyneth Paltrow, Lady Kitty Spencer, Amal Clooney and actress Emma Roberts.

Charlotte Tilbury's lip liner product in universally flattering Pillow Talk nude (pictured on Olivia Culpo) is one of the best-selling beauty products in the world

One of the soft pink nude $35 liners (left) sells every six seconds globally, with countless others buying the companion Pillow Talk lipstick (right)

The Charlotte Tilbury product boasts a host of celebrity fans including Gwyneth Paltrow (left) and Alexa Chung (right) - many highlight that it looks slightly different on different people

So what makes the Lip Cheat in Charlotte's iconic nude, Pillow Talk, such a worldwide success?

Describing it as her 'backstage secret weapon', Charlotte Tilbury said the product has 'everything you need for fuller, re-defined pout.

'This nude beige lip liner is perfect for pairing with your everyday nude lip,' she writes on the Charlotte Tilbury website.

It also glides seamlessly onto the lips, is waterproof to ensure no feathering or transferring all day - and lasts up to six hours without smudging or fading.

Describing it as her 'backstage secret weapon', Charlotte Tilbury (pictured with Nicole Kidman) said the product has 'everything you need for fuller, re-defined pout

And it's not just the application that makes this beauty product a makeup staple of thousands of women.

It's also the fact that despite looking one colour in the packaging, Pillow Talk gives a soft, subtle wash of colour that varies according to the wearer.

For instance, last year three women wore it to the Met Ball, and Pillow Talk looked completely different on Emma Roberts, Gwyneth Paltrow and Alexa Chung.

Lady Kitty Spencer (left) wore the liner (right) to the recent British Royal wedding, where her look won her plaudits

Reviews online of Charlotte's Pillow Talk product are almost universally effusive.

'Just enough pink with a sprinkle of brown keeping it the perfect nude [sic],' one reviewer posted, alongside a five star rating.

'I've purchased this before so it speaks for itself, the creamiest long lasting lip liner, great because it never breaks in the middle of use unlike other brands [sic],' another posted.

'I inherited my grandmother's very thin lips and light complexion. Charlotte Tillbury Lip Cheat allows me to extend my lips just enough to be visible without looking like seven year old me drew them on. Life changing!,' one further reviewer added.

The product - which is also beloved by Emma Roberts (pictured), who wore it to the Met Gala - has thousands of five star reviews online

'Just enough pink with a sprinkle of brown keeping it the perfect nude [sic],' one reviewer posted (pictured: the Pillow Talk shade)

Elsewhere, Amal Clooney, Olivia Palermo, Salma Hayek, Olivia Culpo, Nicole Kidman and Lady Kitty Spencer are all fans of Pillow Talk.

The latter wore it recently with her eye-catching green dress to the Royal Wedding, while the former reportedly sported the lipliner on her wedding day to George Clooney.

But if you want to invest in the liner, you'll have to be quick - as the product and its lipstick counterpart often have to be re-stocked regularly, due to the speed at which they sell out.

'I've purchased this before so it speaks for itself, the creamiest long lasting lip liner, great because it never breaks in the middle of use,' another reviewer said (pictured: Emma Roberts)

Recently, Charlotte Tilbury (pictured with Natasha Oakley) revealed the best-selling beauty products in Australia, which is the brand's third largest market

Recently, Charlotte Tilbury revealed the best-selling beauty products in Australia, which is the brand's third largest market.

Alongside Pillow Talk, top of the list was the Magic Eye Rescue ($90), an anti-ageing eye cream that is packed with powerhouse ingredients which claim to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles.

Aussie women also love the Walk of Shame lipstick ($49) - a berry rose shade worn by Miranda Kerr on her wedding day.

The Brightening Youth Glow primer ($76) was the third best-selling product, thanks to its ability to colour correct and provide the perfect base for makeup.

Meanwhile, Charlotte's Filmstar Bronze & Blush ($109) came in fourth place, and her Full Fat Lashes mascara ($48) rounded out the top five.

To find out more about Charlotte Tilbury, please visit the website here.As a member of the Swedish royal family, Princess Madeleine is used to taking centre stage at engagements and state functions.

But she was happy to take a step back from the spotlight when she served as a bridesmaid for her best friend Louise Gottlieb when she tied the knot with Gustav Thott at Holo Church in Sodermanland on Saturday.

In a testament to the strength of their friendship, Madeleine, 35, was joined by her entire family for the nuptials, with Queen Silvia and King Carl XVI Gutstaf, Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Carl Philip all making an appearance.

Victoria, 40, arrived with her husband Prince Daniel, 44, while Prince Carl Philip, 39, attended with his wife Princess Sofia, 33, who almost stole the show in a daring yellow gown with a slit.

Beautiful in blue: Princess Madeleine, 35, right, looked stunning in a ruffle gown as she performed bridesmaid duties at the wedding of childhood friend Louise Gottlieb on Saturday

Tying the knot: Madeleine's childhood friend Louise Gottlieb's, who was escorted to the church by her father, Fredrik Gottlieb. Mr Gottlieb and his wife are friends of the king and queen

Lookalikes: Crown Princess Victoria, left, with sister-in-law Princess Sofia, right, at the nuptials

Making a statement: Princess Sofia, 33, wife of Prince Carl Philip, 39, wore a striking yellow gown with a one sleeve and a leg flashing thigh-high split

Radiant: The princess looked in high spirits as she walked into the church with the rest of her family. The couple were followed by Crown Princess Victoria and her husband Prince Daniel

The dress had one sleeve and a bow detail on the hip, which flattered the former glamour model's curves.

She wore a pair of sky high silver shoes and carried a matching gold clutch bag as she accompanied Prince Carl Philip into the church.

But the bride was still the day's best-dressed, opting for a white lace gown with a semi-sheer top and capped sleeves.

The dress is said to be by high end Swedish designer Fadi el Khoury, according to The Royals and I blog.

Strike a pose: Princess Sofia happily smiled for the waiting cameras as she walked into the venue

Pretty in pink: Crown Princess Victoria opted for a floor-length gown with delicate detailing

Chivalrous: Prince Daniel took his wife's arm as they made their way into the church

Dream team: Victoria wore matching peep toe shoes that flashed just a hint of red nail polish

She carried a bouquet of white roses as she was escorted into the church by her bridesmaids and father.

Meanwhile Madeleine, who gave birth to daughter Princess Adrienne just three months ago, cut a trim figure in her pastel bridesmaids dress.

Crown Princess Victoria, who is heir to the Swedish throne, looked pretty in pink in a floor-length dress with a ruffled detail that ran from the chest to below the hips.

Burst of colour: Queen Silvia looked regal in a candyfloss pink dress with a floral print

Long-time friends: King Carl XVI Gustaf, left, and Queen Silvia with the bride's parents, Fredrik Gottlieb and Carola Gottlieb. The two families are said to have holidayed together

The heir apparent to the Swedish throne had her brunette tresses styled into a sleek bun and donned a pair of gold earrings.

Madeleine and Louise have been friends since childhood so it came as no surprise that she played an important part in her wedding day.

The two women went to the same high school and are said to have studied in London together.

And the family ties run even deeper, as Louise's parents are said to be friends with King Carl Gustaf and Queen Silvia and even holiday together.

Playful: The groom Gustav appeared to be pushing his new bride up a hill in a giant wheelbarrow

Stunning: The bride and groom were surrounded by family and friends on their big day

Arrival: Bride Louise Gottlieb and her father Fredrik Gottlieb, accompanied by the bridesmaids

Elegant: The wedding dress is said to be by high end Swedish designer Fadi el Khoury

Here comes the bride: Louise's bridesmaids help carry her train as she arrives at the ceremony

The royal couple were in attendance at the big day, with Silvia cutting a regal figure in a pink floral gown with two slits on either side.

The lavish wedding took place in Sodermanland, where Louise's family have a summer home.

After the wedding Gustav appeared to be pushing Louise out of the church on a quad bike as the royals and other guests applauded and laughed.

According to Swedish newspaper Expressen, guests were taken from the church by boat to the family property.

There they enjoyed dinner and dancing until the small hours of Sunday morning, the publication reports.She's known for never putting a foot wrong when it comes to style.

And Queen Silvia of Sweden certainly didn't disappoint when she stepped out in a chic blue dress with a scalloped neckline for a church service on Sunday.

The immaculately dressed royal, 74, accompanied her husband King Carl XVI Gustaf for the episcopal ordinations at Uppsala Cathedral in Stockholm.

Silvia matched her mid-length dress with a blue hat for the ceremony, which sees priests become ordained into the Church of Sweden.

Queen Silvia of Sweden, 74, cut a stylish figure in a bright blue dress and matching hat on Sunday

She accompanied her husband King Carl Gustaf for the episcopal ordinations at Uppsala Cathedral in Stockholm

To accessorise the look, Silvia wore a gold broach encrusted with pearls pinned just below her right shoulder.

She also donned a matching pearl bracelet on her wrist and gold earrings in her ears.

Silvia joined King Carl Gustaf, 71, who cut a dapper figure in a navy suit with a striped tie.

The couple participated in the service by standing to sing along with hymns and readings.

Silvia and her husband joined in with the service by singing along to hymns and readings

The monarch cut a dapper figure in a navy suit and a grey tie for the serene occasion

It was a serene end to a busy week for the royal couple, who have been married for over 40 years.

On Thursday Carl Gustaf attended an annual charity lunch with the WWF with his daughter and heir Crown Princess Victoria.

Later on that day the couple played host to several high profile guests at a formal dinner at Stockholm's Royal Palace.

Yesterday they joined the rest of the royals for the wedding of family friend Louise Gottlieb and her new husband Gustav Thott at Holo Church in Sodermanland.

On Saturday they attended the wedding of family friend Louise Gottlieb and her new husband Gustav Thott at Holo Church in Sodermanland (pictured are the couple with Louise's parents Fredrik and Carola Gottlieb)

Earlier this year the monarch celebrated his 71st birthday with an elaborate parade outside the Royal Palace.

King Carl Gustaf, who is the second-longest reigning monarch in Swedish history, took to the throne in 1973 and survived the country's landmark constitution the following year, and has an active role in public duties, albeit mainly ceremonial.

The King and his wife Silvia, nee Sommerlath, a German-Brazilian former flight attendant, have been handing over increasing numbers of engagements to their eldest daughter Victoria in recent years, fuelling speculation that the monarch may abdicate, allowing the Crown Princess to take the throne.

Beautiful in blue: Princess Madeleine, 35, right, looked stunning in a ruffle gown as she performed bridesmaid duties at the wedding of childhood friend Louise Gottlieb on SaturdayAs a veteran beauty editor, Ive spent the past 15 years editing cosmetic surgery guides for the worlds glossiest magazines.

My job has taken me the length and breadth of the country, visiting the nations busiest clinics; road-testing treatments and taking the pulse in countless waiting rooms to get to the bottom of what women want. At home too, countless requests from friends, and friends of friends, seeking my advice on cosmetic procedures led me to set up The Editors List (editorslist.co.uk) a super-discreet service that connects people to the worlds top cosmetic practitioners, often fast-tracking through long waiting lists.

With a client base from Edinburgh to Chelsea, this role has given me great insight into what women around the country want tweaked, and whom they like to see. And it has shown me that where you live has an astonishing influence on what you have done  and your perception of modern beauty.

Beauty expert Olivia Falcon claims perceptions of modern beauty differ throughout Britain. She revealed the celebrities most likely to influence the cosmetic procedures women choose (file image)

LONDON

THE NEW ATHLETIC BODY

Driven by the booming athleisure trend, Londoners are channelling a lean look, ditching surgical procedures such as liposuction and tummy tucks (down 20 per cent and 12 per cent respectively last year) in favour of CoolSculpting, a non-invasive contouring procedure where fat cells are frozen and flushed through the body for a slinkier silhouette.

Dr Tracy Mountford, of The Cosmetic Skin Clinic, Europes busiest CoolSculpting hub says: CoolSculpting is replacing surgery. Key target areas include the stomach and flanks to redefine the waist, inner thighs to increase the gap between upper thighs and the banana rolls under the buttocks to make bums look smaller and more pert.

Skin tightening is incredibly popular in the capital too, with Ultherapy  a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound to tighten up muscles and stimulate collagen and elastin  and radio frequency treatments in high demand for arms and knees.

Breast surgeon Patrick Mallucci, of Mallucci London, says: Balloon-like breasts are out. Its about shape rather than size as more women are opting for low-profile breast implants, often positioned so the lower half of the breast is fuller than the upper half to offer a more natural look.

For the face, subtle tweaks are key. Focusing on just one cosmetic treatment is a really old- fashioned approach, says A-list favourite Dr Jean-Louis Sebagh. The most successful doctors customise a clever combination of different treatments, such as injectables, resurfacing lasers and skin-tightening ultrasound, that work in synergy to refresh the face.

Botox remains popular, but is more light-handed. The Boy Brow, named as it mimics the way young peoples brows sit, uses light doses of the toxin around the hairline to soften rather than elevate the brow (think of elfin Natalie Portman).

Facial fillers are popular too, but drip-fed in small amounts. Londons Lip Queen, Dr Rita Rakus, is pioneering a new 3D approach, filming the way her clients mouths move before incrementally injecting lips.

She says: My patients dont want the work to be seen. They dont want their husbands to notice, whereas the further north you travel, I suspect they do.

Meghan Markle (pictured) has become a popular choice for women wanting to change their nose. The search for the perfect nose is especially popular in the West Country

WEST COUNTRY

THREAD LIFTS & THE PERFECT NOSE

In clinics from the Cotswolds to Cornwall, theres a call for, as natural as possible please. Thread vein and laser skin resurfacing are popular and Botox is administered fairly conservatively. Women here are not hung up on chasing every line and wrinkle. They want polished skin.

On the South Coast, thread lifting, a procedure inserting fine threads under the skin to lift neck and facial sagging, is thriving.

Leading cosmetic doctors Victoria Manning and Charlotte Woodward, of River Aesthetics in Dorset and Hampshire, say: In this part of Britain, people are slightly more wary of surgery, they want to look refreshed without downtime or fuss. The most popular treatment is the lower face and neck thread lift to sharpen the jawline or, for older patients, to get rid of jowls.

Bristol is the areas cosmetic surgery hub. In fact, one study recently found that the city ranked only second to Los Angeles for most nose job searches online in 2017.

Bristol-based rhinoplasty specialist Lisa Sacks says: People in the area are looking for a refined and elegant look and, while noses are tailored to suit the individuals features, I am often presented with photos of Emma Watson as a reference point.

That may change however, as reports from the U.S. say Meghan Markles ski-jump nose is now the most popular plastic surgery request.

Angelina Jolie (pictured) is the poster girl for perfectly arched brows espeically in Yorkshire

WALES

FACELIFTS & LIPO BOOB JOBS

With a keen appetite for procedures, Wales has been at the heart of a cosmetic surgery boom in the past few years. Tummy tucks, face and neck lifts are most popular.

Dr Harryono Judodihardjo, a dermatologist with clinics in Cardiff and London says people still favour going under the knife, with facelifts viewed as the answer to ageing skin.

There is far less external celebrity referencing than elsewhere in the country. Its more internal and based around how patients feel about themselves, explains leading surgeon Anthony Macquillan, who operates in Newport and Bristol.

This feeling translates to body shape, too. The new trend is for ladies in their 40s, who have previously had breast augmentations, to have their implants taken out and replaced with fat grafting, a two-pronged procedure where fat is liposuctioned from flabby areas and injected back into the breast for a softer more natural look, he explains.

People want sensible-sized implants, a trim-looking tummy, but requests for things like buttock enlargements remain low.

Michelle Keegan (pictured) has been referenced by many women aspiring for perfect lips. Women from Sheffield to Scarborough currently are in search of full lips and cheeks

YORKSHIRE

A FACE FULL OF FILLER

From Sheffield to Scarborough, full lips and cheeks are the cosmetic fashion choice of the moment. Pouty lips in particular are a priority for the under 30s, says nurse practitioner Sharon Bennett of Harrogate Aesthetics. Young girls often go back every three months for dermal filler top-ups as the original effect deflates. But the older demographic (45-plus) want a more natural-look with the upper lip lifted and gentle cushioning in the lower lip.

The beauty ideal involves high, curved cheekbones with filler treatments used to highlight the cheekbones and boost fat loss in the mid cheek, which stops that dreaded tired, older look. On average, four syringes of filler are used to lift a weary face.

Women want brows lifted as much as possible and super smooth foreheads, continues Sharon. People often ask for baby Botox (reduced amounts), then come back for more. We end up injecting 50-60 units of Botox in the upper face compared with softer treatments favoured in places like London that would use around 25 units.

Kim Kardashian (pictured) is a popular choice for those in search of enhancing their cheeks. Women within Cheshire and Liverpool think big cheeks and lips define femininity

To frame the look, there is often a Microbladed brow  eyebrows are semi-permanently tattooed.

Practitioner Karen Betts who has a clinic in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, as well as in London and Wilmslow in nearby Cheshire, says: Whereas in London my clients ask for natural, fluffier brows (Holly Willoughby and Jennifer Aniston are often referenced), in Yorkshire theyre after more of a sleek Angelina Jolie arch.

Yorkshire women are very keen on lip enhancement with tattooing to compliment their lip filler. They feel its better value for money as the tattooing lasts three years, whereas filler lasts up to one year.

CHESHIRE & LIVERPOOL

LIQUID NOSE JOBS

Cheshire is Chelsea and Knightsbridge on steroids, says Dr Raj Acquilla of Yuva Medi spa, a leading clinic in Cheshires affluent Alderley Edge. Women want to wear their brand on their face, and with the rise of Wags and reality TV, they think big cheeks and lips define femininity.

Famous for his advanced injection techniques such as liquid nose jobs (injections of dermal filler across the bridge of the nose), women are queuing up for procedures that offer longer-lasting solutions than make-up contouring tricks and using camera filters to hide blemishes.

The neat little Nicole Kidman nose, the highly contoured Kim Kardashian cheek, the plump Kylie Jenner lip, can all be copied using Botox and fillers.

Dr Nyla Raja claims young women in Cheshire and Liverpool see cosmetic procedures as a status symbol (file image)

Cheshires Botox Queen Dr Nyla Raja, the largest user of Botox and filler outside London, adds: Young women under 30 who need the least work are the ones requesting a done look [one where its obvious theyve had work done]. Rather than being taboo, cosmetic procedures are seen as a status symbol here and worn like a badge of honour.

The filler craze climaxes in Liverpool  reported to have the largest appetite for filler, not only in the UK, but in the world. Demand is fuelled by hundreds of unregulated beautician salons offering injectable treatments at bargain prices which often produce exaggerated results.

Women here just want to look sexy, concludes Dr Raja, whose clinic performs more than 300 CoolSculpting treatments a week. The Cheshire woman embraces curves. They want a nipped-in waist, slender arms, fuller breasts and a pert, round bum.

NORTH EAST

A GEORDIE FACELIFT

I always thought the Geordie Facelift (a popular northern look where girls scrape their hair into a high ponytail so it pulls the skin on the upper face to raise the eyebrows) was a myth until a patient came into my clinic sporting the ponytail and asked me to Botox her eyebrows to mimic the look, says Dr TJ Esho, who has clinics in both Newcastle and London.

The real difference I see between my two patient cohorts is that northern women are far more open than Londoners about talking about cosmetic procedures and what theyve had done.

Women in Newcastle are currently opting for corrective treatments and skin peels to correct sun damage (file image)

They want glamour. They like a highly arched brow, although the look has been slightly modified by injecting just the tail of the eyebrows with filler or Botox to give a more subtle lift rather than a surprised look.

Lip fillers are huge business. Women want to emulate the likes of Our Girl star Michelle Keegan and Gone Girl actress Emily Ratajkowski, and I see about 60 women a week for lip-filler treatment, often paired with chin sculpting, which I do with dermal fillers to balance the face and give a prettier profile.

In Newcastle, the epicentre of most cosmetic work, women have moved away from using sunbeds as they become more conscious of skin health. This is driving a boom in corrective laser and light treatments as well as Obagi skin peels to correct sun damage. Fake tan sales have rocketed with Sunderland second only to Belfast as the UKs fake tan capital.

SCOTLAND

MEGA POUTS & LASERS

When it comes to cosmetic procedures in Scotland, there are two distinct clans, says Dr Nestor Demosthenous, who has run clinics in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

There is a lower class demographic of Glaswegians, who tend to favour larger pouty lips and voluminous cheeks, pumped up with dermal fillers. Angelina Jolie is their poster girl.

They also seek out toxin treatments, asking for the frozen look across the brow.

In contrast, Edinburgh is a little London. Patients are far more reserved and a little fearful of cosmetic treatments. They want discreet changes.

Women in the Midlands aspire to have svelte, healthy bodies says Dr David Ecclestone. Treatments such as CoolSculpting for muffin tops and back fat often have long waiting lists (file image)

These include higher cheekbones, sharper jawlines, and fuller, rather than bigger, lips, achieved with a combination of subtle dermal filler and toxin treatments.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments, which tone down redness and fade pigmentation, are also in high demand as rosacea is a common problem with Celtic skin tones, adds Dr Darren McKeown, of The Aesthetic Medicine Institute in Glasgow.

Its not about looking younger. Its about having healthy looking skin and looking alert and active rather than old and tired.

THE MIDLANDS

MUMMY MAKEOVERS

Like the rest of the UK, facial contouring with fillers is prevalent here. A typical treatment used to involve just one syringe in the lips or nose to mouth lines, says Dr David Ecclestone, medical director of Medizen, a busy Birminghams clinic.

But now people are booking in for total facial sculpting treatment with typically 5-8 syringes to lift saggy jowls, volumise hollow cheeks and smooth tear troughs.

Midlands women are body conscious. My clients want to look svelte and healthy, as opposed to the classic hourglass, says Dr Lorraine Hill of the Hampton Clinic in Solihull.

The average implant size in Essex is nearly a cup size larger than in Oxford - Plastic surgeon Adrian Richards

While less invasive treatments are hugely popular  clinics report waiting lists for CoolSculpting for muffin tops, bingo wings and back fat and bra rolls  Google figures suggest this area may be the tummy tuck capital of the UK, with the most online searches in the country.

Birmingham-based surgeon CC Kat, a pioneer of body-shaping surgery, reports a 20 percent uptake in abdominoplasty in the last five years and sees 25 to 30 new patients a week.

She is known for her Mummy Makeovers (a procedure that usually addresses deflated boobs and inflated tummies after childbirth).

A popular request is to have breasts refreshed with a smaller implant, liposuction of saddle bags and my signature lock and glue abdominoplasty, she says. This combines liposuction with internal locking stitches and tissue glue to sculpt the abs into a two-pack, giving a sporty definition.

KENT & ESSEX

BIGGER IS BETTER FOR BOTH BUMS AND BOOBS

The Only Way Is Essex aesthetic is alive and well, with fake tans, false lashes, tattooed eyebrows and dazzling white smiles all still top priorities on an Essex girls to-do list.

A curvy silhouette is a big focus, with a new crop of clinics offering Brazilian Bum lifts, a procedure where excess fat is removed with liposuction and then strategically injected into the buttocks to give a higher, rounder bum.

Cleavage is also key, with voluptuous bust lines (D cup plus) highly prized here. Adrian Richards, a consultant plastic surgeon who operates at Great Baddow Hospital in Chelmsford, says: The average implant size in Essex is around 30 cubic centimetres, nearly a cup size larger than other areas such as Oxford and London. Essex is the birthplace of the eye-popping trend for vajazzling, where the pubic region is decorated with stick-on crystals, and this has now been replaced with a keen interest in more practical and often therapeutic below the belt procedures.

According to internet search data compiled by whatclinic.com, labiaplasty, or surgery to reshape or reduce the size of the labia, ranks third in regional internet searches after liposuction and tummy tucks.

Dr Shirin Lakhani, of Elite Aesthetics in Kent, reports a swift trade in procedures such as Ultra Femme 360, a radio frequency vaginal tightening, and a whopping 300 per cent increase in intimate treatments over the past 12 months.Of course, I knew we were a big family: I was the eldest of five: me, then Alexander, Roderick and Sam, with Lily, my little sister completing a wild bunch of raggle- taggle children, offspring of the poet George Barker and his wife Elspeth.

We ranged through the Norfolk countryside in the Seventies, sometimes on our wayward donkey duo, Flowering Gold and her daughter Matilda (it was all very hippy in our house back then), or on bikes mended with string and optimism by our father.

I was usually dragging the baby, whichever one it was, in a small tumbrel-like cart behind us. Our dog, a large black Doberman, went with us, baring his teeth at any strangers who might have wanted to approach. He frequently imprisoned passersby in the village telephone box and mounted guard until we dragged him off.

Raffaella Barker (circled) always thought that she was the eldest of five siblings but later realised she was her father's 11th child

We swam in the river and caught sticklebacks in jam jars. We had a pet slow worm, two goats and my cat had kittens in my bed; we were almost feral, but we had weekly ancient Greek lessons after school, taught by my mother, who was a scholar with no one who shared her specific talents.

We had no idea how weird we were, nor that among the many adult visitors at the wild late-night gatherings my parents were known for, were more of our siblings: ten more to be exact.

It turned out I wasnt the eldest of five. Well, I was, but I was also the 11th of 15, in the middle tranche of my half-Irish poet fathers many children. I always thought I was number ten. It was only about five years ago that my mother put me straight on that.

But the facts stand thus: in my family, there is one father, four mothers, and 15 children.

From my eldest half-sister Kate, who is 86, to my youngest sibling Lily, who is 44, we are as follows: Kate, Anthony and his twin Anastasia, both 80 or so now. Then Georgina (born in 1941), Christopher (1943), Sebastian (1945) and Rose (1947). They are the children of the writer Elizabeth Smart. Next was Jimmy (1961) Edward (1962) and Francis (1963), the sons of Dede Farrelly, followed by me, 53, Alexander, 52, Roderick, 50, Sam, 46 and Lily, 44.

This rugby team-sized band of brothers and sisters has artists, writers, an archeologist, photographers, a dancer and a scientist on our roll call. Not much sign of anything practical, although my half brother Sebastian was a carpenter as well as a poet.

The births span 42 years, from 1932 to 1974. We were brought up in far-flung destinations from New York City to Norfolk, and Rome to rural Essex. Some siblings I knew well, but assumed they were family friends.

Growing up, she said they had no idea that many of the adults who visited their parents were more of their siblings

We didnt have full family gatherings  perhaps it was just too emotionally freighted. Family revelations and fault lines can surface at any time.

My father and his first wife Jessica were just 19 and not yet married (scandalous back in the Thirties for Catholics) when Jessica became pregnant with my eldest sister Kate.

My father and Jessica were childhood sweethearts from London who parted in 1947 on the West Coast of America, where they had gone to live after the war, and from where he famously ran off with the Canadian novelist and poet Elizabeth Smart.

I say famously, as By Grand Central Station I Sat Down And Wept is her renowned novel about their affair.

Thankfully, I didnt know it was about my father when I found it at home and read it aged 17. The embarrassment when I found out was consummate. My father and Elizabeth moved to a mill in the Essex countryside, and here the reality of their lives gets buried in mythology and stories told and retold in film, biographies, poems and novels.

Rafaella Barker (pictured) revealed that the births of her siblings span 42 years, from 1932 to 1974

But one thing is clear: I dont think at that stage, my father was much use as a family man.

He departed to the pubs and bars of Soho. Elizabeth worked as a writer at Queen magazine and juggled, like every single mother does to bring up their four children, Georgina, 77 now, Christopher, now 75 and Sebastian and Rose, who would both be in their 70s had they lived longer.

My father and Elizabeth enjoyed a strong friendship for the rest of her life after their affair was over. She is part of my childhood memories, soft-spoken, dressed in jeans and a faded Fishermans smock, smoking Gitanes cigarettes and dancing in our kitchen. She was also a good friend of my mothers, something I never questioned until I became an adult.

Many things we didnt know about as I was growing up seem unlikely now, when transparency is the preferred state of communication, and technology flows us from cradle to grave, but its worth remembering one feature of a large family is the possibility of being lost in it, disappearing, swallowed by the bigger picture. So it was for us. We were firmly absorbed by our immediate siblings, then by relationships with those who visited and whom we began to meet.

Raffaella's father George (pictured) was a poet and writer who had an affair with Canadian novelist and poet Elizabeth Smart

By nine, I was curious about the regular Saturday night parties at our house, which mainly offered opportunities for us to do just as we pleased while no one was noticing.

I led my brothers (my sister was still in her cot) to sit at the top of the stairs and peer between the banisters as guests wandered through the hall.

I had silent crushes on Sebastian and Christopher, Georgina and Rose, who were frequently there. I remember a grey fur jacket of Georginas, and some pink suede boots of Roses that I coveted. I dont remember anyone telling me these elegant creatures were my half-sisters. Why would they?

And then, when they did, it didnt seem a big deal.

It was never clear where our family (by which I mean the five of us, who were my mothers children) ended and the others began. I still dont know all my siblings birthdays, but people came and went, and sometimes we were told they were our siblings.

The final three in the monkey puzzle of our family tree were Jimmy (born in 1961), Edward 1962 and Francis 1963, who lived in Rome with their American mother Dede Farrelly, whom my father vanished to visit every few months.

The rugby team-sized band of brothers and sisters is made up of artists, writers, an archeologist, photographers, a dancer and a scientist

We did not meet these three, nearest to us in age, until Edward arrived aged 19, his first visit to his fathers house, and his first meeting with his five younger siblings.

Edward was cool, with an American accent, clever, funny and exotic  and his brothers, when they came soon after, were the same.

Meeting him changed my life: I was 17, the right age to fall under a new spell. Within two years I had a job cooking for a film crew in London, thanks to Edwards friends, and I moved out from the sprawl of my family and began my own life.

It would not have happened like that without his influence at that precise point.

Family matters. I learned this all through my life. Im a mother of grown children now, and will never stop learning it.

I will also never stop being shaped by my family. I have never lived alone, I am happy when others are around, I thrive on the chaos of too many people, a kitchen full of chatter, a house full of movement and voices.

She said that it was never clear where her family ended and where the rest of her father's children came in

I dont have to be involved in what they are doing, I just like them there. The solitary solace so many writers yearn for is anathema to me.

I had my first child when I was 23. I effectively moved from being in the litter of my siblings to parenting my own litter, and it is only now, when they are all grown up, that I find I am alone more than I like to be.

There are many ways to deal with belonging to a big family, and if I have a need for calm it is internal; writing transports me.

Nature also gives me immeasurable joy, a legacy of my wild outdoor childhood around the fields and valleys of our home, not missed by parents preoccupied with work (my dad) and babies (my mum). Home was always there, but we could go anywhere, do anything, or so we thought.

There was safety in numbers. We survived falling in the river, crashing our bikes and climbing too-high trees, and learned how to help one another out of a scrape. The belief that anything is possible was born in me then, and it is a source of confidence, no matter how confusing situations might appear.

Raffaella says she will never stop being shaped by her family and that she has never lived alone

There are more questions than answers in the myths and legends of my family, but some things are clear. My mother (who was 22 when she met my father, then 50) was incredibly welcoming and generous to the extended family she inherited.

She was younger than three of my siblings, but displayed great maturity and love, and made sure they were always welcome, and no one was ever left out.

She saw no difficulty in the blended family  in her eyes, all my fathers children needed time with him, and she made sure it was possible.

I cannot speak for my half-siblings, but my younger brothers and my sister and I took our lead from her and welcomed them with equal measures of curiosity and acceptance. They belonged with us, and this sense of fraternity remains with me as something secure, something I do not need to question.

My father died in 1991, so we have had a long time without his presence. This perhaps unites us further, as, given the peripatetic nature of his relationships with the women he loved and their children, he was largely absent from most of my siblings lives.

He was vividly present in ours, as he was with my mother for the last 28 years of his life, so we noticed his loss and felt ill-equipped to handle it when he died aged 78.

The complexities of a family are never more vivid than when a patriarch dies. When you throw so many offspring into the mix, the situation could become unbearably tense.

Surprisingly it wasnt, though I couldnt help wondering, at his funeral in the village church in Norfolk, and later at the grand Catholic memorial service at Brompton Oratory, whether, among the throngs of mourners, there might be more siblings.

Maybe there were. In a big family, anything is possible.

Come And Tell Me Some Lies by Raffaella Barker is out now (Bloomsbury, 8.99).There is no attempt to gloss over the relatively advanced age of the groom. He certainly doesn't try to pass himself off as younger than his years.

Indeed, John Fareham, a 59-year-old local councillor in Hull and the former Lord Mayor of the city, jokes about his creaky physical state.

'I did manage to get down on one knee to propose and at my age the difficulty is getting up again, but I managed it with a spring in my step.'

John Fareham, 59, is a local councillor in Hull. Parliamentary candidate Dehenna Davidson is just 24 and has never had a serious relationship, but the couple are getting married

His bride Dehenna, who is just 24, tries to sum up why this  her first serious boyfriend  is the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with.

'I don't know if you can always put your finger on what it is about this person that you love,' she says. 'We just click. I couldn't think of anyone I'd rather spend my time with. I have no doubt that he's going to be a great husband.'

But not everyone is as chilled out about a union that involves a 35-year age difference.

Dehenna lost her dad at 13, so the main father figure in her life has been her grandfather Paul, who is just eight years older than the man she is going to marry. It's fair to say he is not thrilled about the union.

'Initially, I wanted to go out and strangle him,' says Paul, who is a no-nonsense truck driver.

In fairness, he looks as if he could easily strangle the bespectacled and besuited John, a gentle and bookish type.

'I know you've got your Rod Stewarts and your Mick Jaggers, but I don't understand why she'd be so attracted to him,' Paul rages, baffled as to why his pretty granddaughter would want to marry such a man. 'She's young enough and pretty enough to be with someone her own age.'

John, Dehenna (who is also known as Dee) and Paul are three of the people who are taking part in a rather jaw-dropping new documentary series on Channel 4 which revolves around couples who want to marry even when the idea of their union horrifies their families.

Bride & Prejudice follows six couples whose choice of partner has not gone down well with their inner circle, filming them in the build-up to their weddings as tension rises.

Chloe and Jack (pictured) have been together for two years. But her mother Debra, from Aldershot, won't accept him after she brought him home claiming he was an orphan with nowhere else to go

Will parents who strenuously object to their offspring's partner actually attend? Will Paul fulfil Dee's wishes and not only attend the wedding, but give a speech in place of her late father?

Each family has a different reason for not wanting the wedding to go ahead, whether it be the couple's gap in ages, racial or religious differences, or because the chosen partner is the wrong sex.

So heated do the arguments get that you do end up wondering if there will be any weddings at all to celebrate by the end. Yet the more we get to know John and Dee, the more they seem genuinely smitten.

They met when Dee, then a political researcher from Sheffield, attended a campaign event he was speaking at. It wasn't love at first sight.

'He said 'hello' and was very pleasant before waving me on to get on with work, which is very John-ish really,' she says.

Their paths crossed several more times, but they insist they were just friends for a whole year before their relationship turned serious.

'At first, you start realising that something might be happening here, but I put it out of my mind,' admits John. 'The idea was absurd. It's the cliche isn't it, a man of my age and a younger woman.'

John has been married before, but divorced for 20 years. 'I thought at my age it was never going to happen again.'

Actually, they make a very well-suited couple. Dee seems older than her years, at least in attitude if not looks, but both admit they knew they were walking into the lion's den  not least because of John's public profile and Dee's own political ambitions.

During their engagement, she stood for political officer herself, as the Tory candidate for Tony Blair's old Sedgefield seat.

Rob (left) has already been married to his childhood sweetheart. But his mother refuses to accept that his new fiance Simon (right), 31, is a man - not a woman

She has some experience mixing with the more fusty element in the party, having spent a year working as an assistant to Jacob Rees-Mogg.

When her relationship raised eyebrows on the campaign trail, she said: 'Age is but a number.'

In this programme, she admits even she had reservations.

'There is a stigma,' Dee says. 'You have the thing of the younger woman with quite a wealthy older guy. You think, 'Is that what people are going to think of me?' '

John shakes his head violently. He certainly isn't in Mick Jagger territory in terms of wealth, either.

Then there is the question of children. Her grandfather is visibly distressed at the idea that she will have John's children, given that by the time those children are at school, he will be approaching retirement age.

'I would like Dehenna to have children, but not with John,' says Paul. 'He will be taking the children to school with everyone thinking he is the grandad.'

There is no doubt from the off that this wedding is going ahead, and, despite his reservations, Paul has agreed to attend.

However, Dee is desperate for him to give the marriage his seal of approval by giving a speech.

Yet even on the morning of the wedding, when she is spinning around in her 'Cinderella shoes', he has not decided if he can do that. Other stories of conflict are interwoven over three episodes in the series.

Over in Cambridgeshire, the parents of builder Rob, who is 38, are having real trouble getting their heads around his forthcoming wedding.

They have already attended one wedding as parents-of-the-groom.

Jamie and Shaaba, 23, from Essex, have been inseparable since they were 16. But her strict Muslim parents refuse to accept him and want her to marry within her community

Rob had been with the same girlfriend from the age of 16 and married her seven years later, their marriage producing two boys. But it ended after only three and a half years.

When Rob announced that he was seeing someone again, his mum's reaction was a breezy: 'Who is she this time?' But it wasn't a 'she', it was a 'he'.

When we meet Rob and his new partner Simon, 31, who met via online dating, his parents are not only in shock, but denial.

While Rob is fuming about the fact they can't get excited about napkins and floral arrangements ('I wouldn't say they've taken a back seat; they've taken no seat' he says about their attitude to the wedding), they still can't process the fact that their son is suddenly (in their eyes) gay.

Watching the filmed encounters between mother, father and son does make you rather feel like you have stumbled into an Alan Partridge sketch, such is the cringe factor. The differences between the generations are laid bare.

'You don't wake up one day and think, 'Oh I wonder if I'll have a gay son,' ' admits Rob's dad Steve. 'It just lands on your doorstep and you have to deal with it.'

Suffice to say they are dealing with it very badly. Neither has been able to tell their friends that their son is gay, or share the happiness of the forthcoming wedding.

'I feel a sort of embarrassment,' admits Steve. 'It's not like going around saying, 'I've won the lottery' is it? I'm dreading the moment where the minister says 'you may now kiss the . . . the groom . . . the bride . . . the what?' '

The core of the problem is they simply don't believe their son is gay. 'If he was a genuine gay you would notice it from a very early age,' says Steve. 'Limp hands,' nods his wife, Linda who cares massively what the neighbours think.

They reminisce about how clearly heterosexual Rob used to be. 'When he was growing up he used to bring some cracking birds round,' says Steve.

There's an extraordinary showdown when Rob confronts them and they tell him that it isn't just them that don't believe he is gay.

'Nan doesn't believe it either,' they say.

'Well she will when she sees us snogging at the wedding,' hits back Rob.

His dad can't countenance this. 'You aren't going to do that, that's . . . ' he splutters.

'Disgusting?' volunteers Rob, exasperated and hurt.

His husband-to-be, whose own mother is excited about the wedding, is furious.

'I want to scream from the rooftops for them to sort themselves out,' says Simon. 'If they can't support us, I'd prefer them not to be there, but he (Rob) wants them there regardless.'

One of the most astonishing stories, which unfolds in Essex, involves the union of 23-year-old students Jamie and Shaaba, who met at the age of 16 and are inseparable.

But Shaaba is from quite a strict Muslim family and her mother Faye always wanted, nay expected, her to marry a man from within their Mauritian community. Jamie certainly does not fit the bill.

'I'm not meaning to be racist but he is . . . white,' says Faye, who is an estate agent and quite happy to go on camera to share her disgust.

She has four daughters and has always been quite strict about the boyfriend issue.

'We are old-fashioned. We believe in no sex before marriage, we don't encourage boyfriends.'

Shaaba sighs. 'Mum has a very set idea of the sort of man she wants for me. Someone who is brown, basically.'

But there is another objection that perhaps goes some way to explain the strength of Faye's disapproval.

We only learn halfway through the programme that Jamie is also transgender.

He was not only born a girl but, when his friendship with Shaaba began, it was very much a female friendship.

'She came and stayed in our house,' says Faye, explaining that there is no way, under her strict no-boyfriend rules, that she would have countenanced such a thing had she known there was a relationship imminent between the two  or a sex change in the offing.

Yet within six months of meeting Shaaba, Jamie had had an operation to remove her breasts and was taking testosterone to transition to a male. Shaaba has no issue with her partner's past.

'You are a man. I am a girl. This is a straight relationship,' she says to Jamie on camera.

Quite a bit for a mother to get her head around, though, and, frankly Faye can't. 'It is heartbreaking,' she says, as the wedding preparations begin. 'I was very angry. I even disowned her at one point.'

Where will they go from here? As Shaaba puts it: 'If anyone else was racist and transphobic and homophobic, I would drop them no question. But she's my mum.' And yes, she wants Faye at her wedding.

As does 20-year-old Chloe, who lives in Aldershot. She has been with her partner Jack, also 20, for two years.

He proposed just six months after they got together and they are now, despite not having any money, deep in confetti and table setting plans.

Her mother Debra is appalled. 'I just didn't think she would be at this stage at this age. I thought she would be getting a steady job, a driving licence.

'They are all swept up in the moment and I don't think Chloe is mature enough to make an informed decision. For that matter, neither is Jack.'

There is no way Debra, who herself married young  and lived to regret it  will support this marriage. 'I'm prepared to say, 'I'm your mother and no, you can't do this,' ' she says.

Chloe pulls a face. 'I don't think we are too young to get married. I think that's a load of c***.'

As their story unfolds, you can see why Debra has such concerns.

She first met Jack when Chloe brought him home as a friend, explaining he was a homeless orphan and had nowhere else to go. Big-hearted Debra let him move in, making sure she grilled her daughter on the true nature of their relationship.

There was no romance, was there? Chloe assured her there was not.

The truth only came out when she saw her daughter had changed her Facebook status to 'in a relationship', and she went into her bedroom to confront her, finding her and Jack cuddled up on the bed.

It then emerged that Jack's parents weren't dead after all, and he had concocted that story to get a place in a hostel.

Little wonder Debra has objections to this wedding.

Most of these weddings do go ahead, we can reveal (although we have agreed not to reveal whether the disgusted relatives all attend), but the programme is a timely reminder that along with the confetti of a wedding also comes conflict.

Happy ever afters sometimes seem a long way off.

Bride & Prejudice is on Channel 4 at 9pm tomorrow.Lovers of fabulous footwear, rejoice! This weekend sees the opening of the first Kurt Geiger London boutique (the fashion-forward upscale line from the KG brand) at Selfridges Oxford Street in London.

SHOES, 129, Kurt Geiger London, kurtgeiger.com

Some styles will be exclusive to the new store, including these embellished flats (above), which Ive had my eye on for while. Ill be wearing mine at summer celebrations or to jazz up jeans and a tee. If youre in the area today, pop in and join the opening-day celebrations, which include readings from the Psychic Sisters (if you dare!).

Opening! The first Kurt Geiger London boutique at Selfridges Oxford Street in London

JEWELLERY WITH A CONSCIENCE

New brand Lark & Berry is putting the sparkle into sustainable. It uses only conflict-free diamonds and gems (identical to your average stones, but cultivated 100 per cent ethically  not mined  and with some of the highest clarity ratings in the business) without losing any of the glamour that should come with fine jewellery. Its offerings (utterly desirable to say the least) hit the sweet spot between luxury and fashion jewellery  so a well placed hint pre-birthday or anniversary wouldnt be out of the question.

RINGS and BRACELETS range from 300 to 20,000 for premium; more affordable styles between 300 and 600, larkandberry.com

THIS WEEK I'M BUYING...

TREAT I cant resist these wire-rimmed sunnies from new independent brand Alexis Amor.

STEAL This Zara kaftan is a standout buy for my holiday wardrobe.

WHAT TO WEAR TO... RHS Chatsworth Flower Show

Missed Chelseas festival of blooms last week? Catch the northern version at Chatsworth House in Derbyshire and see the Great Conservatory filled with orchids. From Wednesday (members only) to Saturday, from 18.50. rhs.org.ukShes been making us look and feel great for more than two decades. During that time shes dealt with divorce, debt and personal tragedy. But her passion for changing womens lives with funny, frank advice is undiminished. Now Trinny Woodall is here to help you!

And read her brilliant new column here.

TRINNY wears: JACKET, SHIRT AND TROUSERS, Me + Em

No one could accuse Trinny Woodall of being shy and retiring. The makeover queen, who has been British womens bossy best friend for more than 20 years, admits that when she meets anyone whose style she thinks needs fixing, she has to tell them. I cant keep it in, she says.

Since joining forces with Susannah Constantine in 1996 to impart no-nonsense fashion advice, first in a newspaper column and then on What Not to Wear, Trinny has been helping women to look  and feel  their best. And shes still at it, dishing out style and beauty advice to her 701,000 followers on Instagram and Facebook, as well as transforming women on ITVs This Morning.

POLKA-DOT SUIT, Haider Ackermann; T-SHIRT, Selfridges; SHOES, Stella McCartney

So who better to help YOU readers with their problems? Tell Trinny is the first of her new monthly columns in which she will tackle issues from style ruts to relationship strife, all in her forthright manner. She will also share her latest fashion, beauty and lifestyle must-buys  all tried and tested by her.

Knowing I can make a difference is what gives me passion and energy

Trinny brings a wealth of hard-won wisdom to her new role. At 54, and a mother to Lyla, 14, she has beaten drug and alcohol addiction, struggled with infertility (enduring nine rounds of IVF), been through the pain of divorce and then the complex agony of losing her ex-husband (and Lylas father) Johnny Elichaoff, who fell to his death in 2014. Add to that a difficult menopause, spinal surgery, financial woes and launching a new (thriving) beauty business in her 50s.

Ive had my fair share of life experience, she says, wryly. If I feel something is relevant to the women writing to me, Ill talk about it. I want to hear from women who feel stuck in a rut and, rather than ask their best friend, need a fresh take on something. Im not a psychiatrist  Ive had therapy in my life  but I know women well. And YOU is the magazine I most relate to as a woman. Theres a balance between normality and aspiration, and it tells you whats out there, and what everyones talking about.

STRIPE-DETAIL SHIRT and TROUSERS, Serena Bute

Yet Trinny concedes she struggles to ask for help if shes feeling down herself. I find it hard to tell anyone or pick up the phone. I used to tell Susannah  we were together every day, so shed say, Youre in a bad mood, whats wrong? If Im not feeling great, I will be cold, as opposed to vulnerable.

Her main confidant now is her partner of four and a half years, multimillionaire art collector Charles Saatchi. They met at a dinner party and hes since become an investor in her business. Their life together consists of cosy nights in watching TV, and she tells him everything.

Hes my best friend, she says, simply. Midlife romance comes without many of the pressures felt by younger couples. When, like me, youve already got your own child, home and income, a relationship has to add something different to your life  youve ticked all the other boxes.

SILVER SHIRT, Stella McCartney; TROUSERS, Zara

Trinny has mellowed in other ways, too. The head-girl tone of What Not to Wear has been dialled back. Im softer now, she says. Rather than Do this, I say This really helps me  why not consider adding it to your routine? But she still possesses an almost compulsive honesty. I know a little tweak will change how some women feel about themselves.

She recalls a recent makeover slot on This Morning when she encouraged a 65-year-old woman to ditch her fringe after 30 years. When we finished filming, she said, Im changing my hair as soon as I get home. It gives me a buzz to think that Ive helped a woman shift her self-image  hearing that is the most rewarding thing. Making a difference is what gives me passion and energy.

GOLD JACKET, Haider Ackermann; T-SHIRT, Cos; TROUSERS, Ralph Lauren

And she has energy to burn. When we meet at the shoot, Trinny  in her favourite stacked brogues, silver shirt and pink blazer  strides in at 9.30am brandishing a cup of sludge (its actually avocado, dates, raspberries, a rice and coconut milk combo, plus wellbeing guru Vivienne Talsmats fat-torching Rejuva Burn powder).

She has been up since 5am, had her hair cut and has filmed a Facebook live video  so far watched by 23,000 people  in the taxi over, giving advice on everything from maxi dresses to blocked pores, all with a bandage face mask on (making her look like the Invisible Man) to plump her skin for the shoot. Its typical Trinny: honest, unselfconscious, high-energy and funny.

SHIRT and SKIRT, Joseph. SHOES, Robert Clergerie

This is all part of an average day of starring in beauty tutorials, outfit-of-the day videos (usually filmed on the fly in shop changing rooms) and Q&A sessions with her fans, who include women of all ages. She is a walking ad for the products she tests and the myriad tips shes picked up: her enviably pert bottom is the result of constant clenching and she puts her thick artfully tousled tawny brown hair down to biotin supplements.

But she bemoans her erratic exercise routine after having surgery three years ago. I spent six years doing pilates every day and then, at 51, I had a difficult replacement of two vertebrae in my neck and was out of action for a year and a half. I was also in menopause, so I put on two stone. I didnt mind that so much, it was more feeling untoned. Shes clearly doing something right  a recent video in which she stripped down to her swimsuit, showcasing her lithe 5ft 10in figure, quickly accrued 130,000 views and went viral.

Trinny showcasing her lithe 5ft 10in figure

She tries not to waste energy worrying. Someone once told me that 99 per cent of everything you worry about never happens. Its true  but the one per cent does. The person who told me that was my husband, and I was always scared he might die  its so ironic. But if Lylas worrying, it doesnt stop me from telling her, Remember what Dada used to say. I dont like corny expressions but if Im going in a spiral of panic Ill think about that.

Trinny with her daughter Lyla

Lyla, whos at boarding school, is in constant contact with Trinny. The teen has starred in a few of her mothers videos and regularly comments on them (Ill tell her, Go back to your lessons! says Trinny). During a brief bout of bullying, Lyla, then ten, handled it with a maturity beyond her years. I told Lyla to tell her bully, You are saying such mean things, you must be having a hard time. Whats wrong? She did and it worked. Straightforward and direct  very much the Woodall way.

Ive talked to women every day of my career, and even if I dont know all the best solutions, Im like a conduit, she says. I hear somebody giving advice on dealing with a problem and Ill pass it on because its good. So, if theres something on your mind, you know what to do: tell Trinny.

Styling: Cherrino. Make-up: Charlotte Ribeyro using Trinny London. Hair: Greg Hill at Josh Wood. Producer: Ester Malloy.



As the BBCs guest fashion insider at Meghan and Harrys wedding, YOUs editor Jo Elvin reveals all about style coups, Kleenex supplies  and why she hates hats.

Jo presenting with Dermot OLeary, Kirsty Young and US TV host Meredith Vieira

I cant help it. Im still thinking about that incredible day. Positively buzzing. Im in danger of banging on about Harry and Meghans wedding long after even they are bored talking about it.

I wasnt invited, obviously. But I was thrilled  and frankly astonished  to be asked to join the commentary team for BBC One. My remit was to bring expert fashion chat to hosts Dermot OLeary and Kirsty Young on what the assembled guests were wearing and, of course, analysis of The Dress, live from Windsor.

Racked with terror, I said yes. Who could say no to a ringside seat to watch history being made? My first Royal Wedding was Charles and Dianas, which I watched from my sofa at home in Sydney, Australia, at the tender age of 11. I could never have dreamed that one day Id be involved in one.

I got the choice of dress designer right! What a fluke!

The actual event was 24 of the most simultaneously nerve-racking and exhilarating hours of my life, but the preparation and fear began weeks before 19 May. My main task was to be able to talk knowledgeably and (hopefully) entertainingly about the styling details of Meghans dress and, crucially, know a lot about the chosen designer. As we know, these details are always shrouded in secrecy until the very second a royal bride plants a silken slipper on that aisle. And when none of the possible contenders will even confirm if it isnt themwell, its tricky.

Then there are the guests. Not only who might they be wearing, but, um, who might they be? As a working-class Aussie, my knowledge of peripheral royals is patchy. And I needed to watch at least one episode of Suits.

Jo in hair and make-up

The day of reckoning arrived and, as instructed, I arrived in Windsor on Friday at lunchtime to prep for our first live show at 7pm that night. Walking the few feet from my car to the BBC meeting point took a good ten minutes thanks to the hundreds of people already milling, waving and wearing Union flags and jostling for a prime vantage point. The chaos of the green room quickly whipped up my excitement.

Even watching Alex Jones and Anita Rani share a packet of crisps (there was little time for actual dinner) felt impossibly glamorous. Nothing  not even the windowless room we were all piled into for make-up  could dampen the joy of being involved in something like this.

Jo shares the reality behind the cameras on Instagram

My Friday night on-air chat with Dermot and Kirsty  a run-through of the possible dress designers  was over in seconds, and then it took nearly two hours to travel the two miles out of Windsor to our hotel.

After a virtually sleepless night  terrified Id snooze through one of my multiple alarms, and regretting the pizza and chips I had with Alex and Ore Oduba for dinner at 10pm  I was out of bed at 4.30am and in the minibus with the presenters and crew at 5am sharp. Excitement was already trumping exhaustion and, as such, I dont think theres ever been a cheerier dawn ride.

Meghan and Harry during the ceremony

From 6-9am I studied, rehearsed, had my make-up and hair sorted and changed into my green Cefinn dress  chosen because bright colours are good for TV, but mostly because it was so comfortable. At 10am I was being ushered on to set and all eyes were on me to name the designer.

After weeks of everyone being convinced Meghan had chosen Ralph & Russo, my internet combing had thrown up a curveball rumour, seconds before I went on air. With the pressure on to bring new information to the table, I blurted out: A fresh name in the frame this morning is Clare Waight Keller of Givenchy. When Dermot asked, Where are you getting this stuff? I could feel my face go red as I said, Umjust chat on Twitter. I felt foolish. If there was any truth in it, it would have surfaced before now, right?

Meghan and Harry melt hearts by kissing for the crowds

My task was to come on every 20 minutes or so and discuss either The Dress or arriving guests with Dermot and Kirsty. Any time I wasnt on air, I was just to the side of the set, sweating over my phone for more info, any info.

I texted a friend who knows Amal Clooney and begged her to find out, ahead of her arrival, who she was wearing. I promised fashion PRs they could have my kidneys if ever needed in exchange for intel on which designers Pippa Middleton and Serena Williams had chosen.

My helpful husband emailed me multiple media alerts purporting to be facts about the dress that I couldnt think straight. My head was swimming with so much information that I just prayed silently that it would come out of my mouth with at least some coherence.

Some of those face-obscuring hats: Oprah Winfrey, left, and Lady Sarah Chatto

Meghans Suits co-star Abigail Spencer (left) and actress Priyanka Chopra

For me the most stressful parts were in recognising famous faces. (I really should have watched a few more episodes of Suits.) All those hats! Ive been looking at Oprah Winfrey all my life, but my TV nerves plus her huge hat meant it took me a few seconds to recognise her.

I stammered that darker colours are in for spring and, as if sent by angels, Victoria Beckham appeared in navy

So when I thought it was Lady Sarah Chatto under that glorious Dior-inspired straw creation, I didnt dare say in case it wasnt. (It was. And now I think I could ID her while wearing a blindfold and just touching her face.)

Then Kirsty asked me to identify the main trends coming through in the guests outfits. I blanked; in my head all I could think was, Er, theyre all wearing clothes Thankfully I managed to stammer something about darker, jewel colours being big for spring and, as if sent by angels, Victoria Beckham and Chelsy Davy appeared sporting sombre navy.

Victoria Beckham and Amal and George Clooney arrive at the chapel

For all the pressure I put on myself, it became clear very quickly what a small role I was playing. I watched in awe as the production team ushered in guest after varied guest, spinning hundreds of plates at once in several different locations.

Heres the official royal photographer Alexi Lubomirski chatting with Kirsty, and now Alex is interviewing stableyard staff about the horses pulling the carriage. Dermot is interviewing Baroness Doreen Lawrence, and then its Ore artfully coaxing cute answers out of toddler-aged spectators.

Here was that little boy we saw walking behind his mothers coffin, now having one of the happiest days of his life

By 11.45, all I cared about in the world was seeing That Dress. Id had my fill of guessing and obsessing, and when Meghan stepped out of the car, I drank in every detail.

To my relief, it was incredibly easy to talk about it because there was so much detail. The neckline was radical, by royal standards. The style was at once regal but still quintessentially Meghan. That tiara was knockout. The choice of designer (which I got right! What a fluke! Thats going on my LinkedIn!) was a very Markle-esque feminist statement in itself.

Harry arrives at the chapel

Watching the service was a brief chance to exhale in the studio  but only brief. Relax, sure, but also soak up every possible aspect for discussion and dissection back on air. I was mortified to find myself welling up: here was that little boy we saw walking behind his mothers coffin, now having one of the most beautiful, happiest days of his life  I couldnt help it.

I was trying to hide my face from the two TV pros next to me, so I could have hugged her when Kirsty said, Oh here I go, weddings always set me off. Tissues were rushed to set for both of us. I turned to her: They are just sooptimistic arent they? It is exactly that, she nodded. Its the most optimistic, hopeful thing you can do.

And then I had a shock. Suddenly on the TV screen I could see my hairdresser, George Northwood, sitting in the church. I shrieked and pointed, and everyone swivelled to stare at me. Hed cut my hair two days earlier and let me drone on and on about my part in the wedding. He nodded and enthused about how exciting it sounded  all the while keeping the gigantic secret that he was doing Meghans hair for her wedding reception! I texted him: YOU SNEAKY GIT! (Its OK, weve known each other for ten years.) I couldnt breathe a word, sorry! came the reply.

The BBC reporting team (Jo fourth from left)

And, like that, it was all over. My 15 minutes of fame consigned to history. I was exhausted but on such a high. The first glass of wine that evening was probably the best Ive ever had in my life. I want to thank producer Catherine Stirk for including me and the wonderful duo of Dermot and Kirsty. Despite all the pressure, they were so welcoming and put everyone at ease, there were times when you could forget it was being beamed to more than 13 million viewers.

I have never experienced anything so thrilling, and likely wont again. Even the old hands seemed blown away. As Kirsty said to me, usually the big news events are tragic, so to be involved in one so joyous is rare and special. I think the only people who could have possibly had a better time than me on 19 May would be the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.CYBG, the owner of Clydesdale and Yorkshire banks, has put forward an improved all-share offer for Virgin Money to create a 4billion challenger bank.

Under the new proposals, Virgin Money shareholders would own approximately 38 per cent of the combined group, instead of the 36.5 per cent previously offered.

The revised offer involves exchanging 1.2125 new CYBG shares for each Virgin Money share.

Revised offer: But CYBGs bid still values Virgin Money at around 1.6billion

While this marks an improvement on the previous share exchange ratio of 1.1297, the recent decline in CYBG's share price means that it effectively values each stock at 354p versus the stronger value of 359p in early May.

The potential deal still values Virgin Money at around 1.6billion.

Shares in FTSE 250-listed CYBG were 1.7 per cent, or 5p higher at 296.80p in morning trading.

Virgin Money shareholders would also be entitled to retain any dividend declared and paid in respect of the period ending June 30.

CYBGs bid comes after a weekend of talks to join forces. CYBG had until Monday to make a formal offer. CYBG now has until June 18 to make an offer.

The merger would create Britains biggest challenger bank with assets of 70billion.

Ian Gordon, a banks analyst at Investec, said the revised offer 'hardly appears over-generous' and that the valuation of around 1.6billion is 'low'.

'Our view remains that the strategic rationale for the proposed combination is sound, and that cost synergies should (conservatively) amount to 10-20%.

'However, we believe that the current terms are unduly weighted towards CYBG shareholders, and fail to reflect full value for Virgin,' Gordon added.

'We believe that a further improvement to terms may be required to get the deal over the line.'

However, equity analysts at Jefferies believe a successful deal 'is more than probable now', noting that the new offer was revealed in a joint announcement, with both lenders 'championing its strategic rationale and upfront premium'.

That is also 'coupled with the fact that no other bidder has entered the process in the last fours weeks', analysts added.A 13-year-old Texas girl has been charged with stabbing her friend, 14, to death during an argument over a sleepover.

Nylah Lightfoot of Fort Worth, Texas was stabbed in the chest and neck when she went to pick up her clothes from her friend's home on Tuesday.

The victim's mother Anntoinette Carter claims that the mother of the suspect stood by and watched the altercation between the two girls unfold, without stepping in.

Nylah Lightfoot, 14, of Fort Worth, Texas was stabbed to death on Tuesday by her 13-year-old friend, who has been charged in her death

Nylah, pictured above, had gone to visit the suspect to retrieve clothes she left with her when she was stabbed in the chest and the neck and later died from her wounds

Carter says her daughter Nylah and the suspect were 'on-and-off friends'.

She added that Nylah asked if the suspect could sleepover, to which Carter said no, according to The Star-Telegram.

Then the suspect asked Nylah to come over and retrieve clothes she had swapped with the teen.

Then the two got into an altercation at the Fort Worth apartment complex and things turned deadly.

Police responded to a call around 3:30am early Tuesday morning.

The horrific stabbing unfolded at this Fort Worth apartment complex, police responded to a call around 3:30am on Tuesday

Nylah's mother Anntoinette Carter claims that the 13-year-old suspect's mother watched on as the teenager stabbed Nylah

Nylah's family say they want justice for their her death who was stabbed after the suspect was denied a sleepover

The little girl was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital for her neck and chest wounds where she was pronounced dead, the Tarrant County medical examiner's office says.

The 13-year-old suspect, who has not been named due to her age, was arrested Wednesday according to Fort Worth Police spokesman Bradley Perez.

She is held in custody pending trial in the killing of Nylah, as ordered by State District Judge Timothy Menikos.

She wore handcuffs as she made her initial appearance before a judge on Thursday, according to Fox4.

'Now I'm daughterless. And my heart feels like it's just been ripped out and stomped on,' Carter said.

Nylah's grandfather Dwight Roberts said he wants justice for her premature death.

'This is just a wake-up call for everybody. Not only my grandkids but other kids. When your parents tell you not to do something, don't do it. Just wait. Live another day,' he said.There's no one that great running for governor but there's a great candidate for Superintedent of Public Instruction



Every couple of years at this point in the cycle, Californians ask me who to vote for in down ballot races. I don't know who will be the best judges but I try to figure it out. I spend my time trying to figure out who the best candidates for Congress will be. And in California the Democratic incumbents who really don't deserve reelection are Jim Costa, Ami Bera, Scott Peters and Lou Correa. Some the others are great-- like Ro Khanna, Ted Lieu, Alan Lowenthal, Barbara Lee, Mark DeSaulnier and Judy Chu-- and others are just the lesser of two evils. As for non-incumbents congressional candidates, these are the ones I'd vote for:





First and foremost is Kevin de Leon for the U.S. Senate. As far as the House:

 CA-8- Marge Doyle

 CA22- Ricardo Franco

 CA-23- Wendy Reed

 CA-39- Sam Jammal

 CA-45- Katie Porter

 CA-49- Doug Applegate

 CA-50- Ammar Campa-Najjar

Go ahead-- give it a try





The very worst Democratic congressional non-incumbent candidates are, the ones for progressives to avoid like the plague:

 CA-22- Andrew Janz

 CA-25- Bryan Caforio

 CA-39- Gil Cisneros

 CA-45- Dave Min

 CA-48- Omar Siddiqui

 CA-49- CA-49- Mike Levin

 CA-49- Paul Kerr

The California gubernatorial race doesn't excite me, although we laid out the strategic reasons to vote for Antonio Villaraigosa . Too bad Gvin Newsom will probably win; he's terrible. There are more interesting candidates for Lieutenant Governor, Democrat Jeff Bleich and independent Gayle McLaughlin. I'm going to vote for Dave Jones for Attorney General and Richard Lara for Insurance Commissioner. As far as state Senate goes, opposing the Josh Newman recall (SD-29) is really important. For Assembly, Steve Dunwoody (AD-54) and Eloise Reyes (AD-47) are important candidates to back and the Speaker who killed Medicare-for-All, Anthony Rendon, should be defeated and made an example of. His district is AD-63, which includes Maywood, Bell, Cudahy,South Gate, Lynwood, Paramount, the eastern part of North Long Beach and Lakewood. If I lived there I'd vote for Maria Estrada





That all said, I asked my old friend-- a progressive and school teacher-- to explain why she supports Tony Thurmond for state Superintendent of Instruction over right-wing privatizer Marshall Tuck.

















Why I'm Voting for Tony Thurmond for CA Supt. of Instruction

by Marcy Winograd





As Californias June 5th primary approaches, please help me save public education from deep pocket Republicans trying to take over our schools.





Elect a progressive: Tony Thurmond, Oakland Assembly Member, former Contra Costa School Board Member, 20-year social worker, and champion for publicly run and publicly operated schools; endorsed by the LA Times & California Teachers Association.





As a California lawmaker, Tony Thurmond authored AB1014, a bill that allocates 35 million from the criminal justice system directly to the schools. Plus, this week, Tony's bills to increase resources for special education and bilingual education passed through the Assembly and are on their way to helping two of the student groups most impacted by the achievement gap-- students with special needs and English language learners.





As chair of the Assembly STEM Education Committee-- that's science, technology, engineering, and math-- Tony is pushing the state to allocate $200 million to expanding STEM education, especially in low-income and rural school districts. Trump has suggested $200 million for the entire country, but Tony understands that we have to invest more in preparing our kids for the jobs of tomorrow.





Tony Thurmond and the people of California are engaged in an epic battle to save public education from the likes of Betsy DeVos. His opponent, funded by rich Republicans and the charter school lobby, is also running as a Democrat, but not as a progressive Democrat. For more on Tonys opponent, read this





Below is a video of Tonys speech to the California Democratic Party. It'll help you understand who he is and why Marcy is so enthusiastic about helping elect him:Two people are dead and two are missing after a plane carrying a mega-mansion builder and his wife along with two others crashed off the coast of the Hamptons.

Ben Krupinski, 70, is one of the people who died in the tragic crash, Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman confirmed to the East Hampton Patch.

Bonnie Krupinski, 70, and the couple's grandson, 22-year-old Will Maerov, were also on board.

The pilot flying the aircraft was Jon Kenneth Dollard, age 47, who is an instrument rated commercial flyer.

Krupinski, who has built and renovated homes for the likes of Martha Stewart and Billy Joel, and his wife Bonnie were on the private aircraft when it went down off Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett on Saturday afternoon.

The married couple, who are popular among residents of the affluent New York summer destination, were in a Piper PA31 Navajo aircraft when it crashed, according to 27 East, a local Hamptons news source.

Two people have been confirmed dead and two remain missing after a private plane owned by and carrying custom builder Ben Krupinski (left) and his wife, Bonnie (second from right) crashed on Saturday off the coast of the Hamptons into the Atlantic Ocean; Ben Krupinski has been identified as one of the people known to have died in the crash

The aircraft was about one mile away from the airport when it lost contact with the East Hampton Tower, the East Hampton Police Department said.

The Coast Guard found two bodies and are desperately searching for two more that are missing in the surrounding water.

A New York Times article from 1992 called the area 'Krupinskiland,' and described it as containing 'sprawling houses with attitude that look as if they are sprawled out on lounge chairs with a masseuse and a pina colada.'

In the article, Martha Stewart is mentioned twice, first for having Krupinski on a job at that time, and secondly in a quote calling the builder, 'Extraordinary!' in reference to his sense of perfection while renovating Stewart's 24-room home.

In the same write-up, advertising executive and client-turned-friend Jerry Della Femina says, 'In East Hampton, Ben's the star.'

Ben Krupinski (right) renovated Martha Stewart's (left) home in The Hamptons. She called the builder 'extraordinary' in a New York Times article in 1992

He added: 'You walk into a restaurant and everyone's looking up and saying, "It's Ben! It's Ben Krupinski!'

The late Mr Krupinskis work with celebrity chef and lifestyle expert Stewart did raise questions, but they were never proven.

Stewart's reps strongly denied accusations from Mr Krupinki's daughter, Laura, published in The New York Post that they had an affair, and insisted that they were just close friends.

Laura was suspicious when she saw them getting close in Palm Beach during a vacation, where the Krupinski's own a home.

She told the New York Post's Page Six in September of 2013 that her allegations damaged the relationship with her family.

She claims her father cut her off from her $26,000 monthly allowance, her mother refused to speak to her, and the two of them kicked her out of her Bedford home after making the claims.

While building homes for the rich and famous, Mr Krupinski became a central figure in the Hamptons.

'I'm devastated,' Schneiderman said, of the loss of his friend of more than 20 years. 'This is a devastating loss for the East End.'

Ben Krupinski made a name for himself building and renovating homes for A-listers

This three-story retreat is one of the many homes that Krupinski worked on in East Hampton

Stewart is quoted as calling calling the builder, 'Extraordinary!' in reference to his sense of perfection while renovating her 24-room home in the Hamptons, shown here in a 2009 photo

Another luxurious mansion that Krupinski worked on is shown here, with a wrap-around porch

In addition to Mr Krupinski's building business, the family owns dozens of commercial real estate properties in both East Hampton and Southampton.

Their three restaurants in East Hampton include the 1770 House on Main Street, Cittanuova on Newtown Lane, and the restaurant, hotel, marina complex East Hampton Point on Three Mile Harbor Hog Creek Road.

Ms Krupinski's family, the Bistrians (who are one of the largest landowners in East Hampton Town, co-own the exclusive East Hampton Gold Club with Ben and Bonnie.

The couple were also known to be very philanthropic in the Hamptons.

Mr Krupinski had often anonymously supported local charities throughout East Hampton Town, and had on several occassions volunteered his work force for pro bono construction. Two instances of which included the historic restoration ofScoville Hall in Amagansett and the Amagansett Life-Saving Station.

The couple's good works earned them the title of East Hampton Lions Club Citizens of the Year in May 2017, an honor bestowed upon them by the East End community.

'I'm speechless,' Schneiderman said. 'They were so incredibly generous.'

Former East Hampton Town board member Diana Weir said, 'They are an integral part of the East Hampton community  one of the most distinguished local families.'

The long-time friend of the couple added, 'I am crushed. They were very good to me and all local charities.'

Of Bonnie, specifically, Weir recalled how she dedicated her to life to giving back to the communtiy with her 'tremendous business acumen serving on various boards. I am heartbroken.'

It's not yet known which of the passengers' bodies have been found, besides that of Mr Krupinski. Schneiderman could not confirm whether Ms Krupinski had survived the crash.

This modern home is another piece of property credited to the beloved Ben Krupinski

Two people have been confirmed dead and two remain missing, after a plane crash on Saturday off the coast of the Hamptons in the Atlantic Ocean, which is the area seen here

The first victim who was confirmed dead was found by East Hampton Lifeguards on the beach, Ryan O'Hare of Coast Guard Station Montauk said.

Coast Guard Cutter Bonito recovered a second body from the water near the crash site, as officials continue to search for the other two passengers.

It's not clear which of these bodies belonged to Mr Krupinski.

'We are stricken by this loss,' Captain Kevin Reed, a commander at Sector Long Island Sound, said in a press release. 'Our deepest sympathies go out to the families and loved ones of the two recovered individuals.'

The crash occurred at around 2.50pm Eastern on Saturday.

Crews aboard two commercial fishing boats in the area were asked to join in the search by authorities, according to Newsday.

The cause of the crash has yet to be determined, but O'Hare noted that the plane went down around the same time that thunderstorms entered the area.

Bonnie Brady, the wife of Dave Aripotch, the owner of a commercial 63-foot fishing trawler who has been searching for the remaining passengers, also said her husband called her after a 'torrential downpour' hit the area where he had been fishing.

Aripotch was four miles away from the crash site when he received a pan-pan emergency signal from the US Coast Guard, which alerted him that an aircraft had come down in the area.

He immediately began aiding in the search near Indian Wells Beach, his wife said.

Members of the New York State park police are seen here near the scene of the plane crash in the ocean off Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett, New York on Saturday

The aircraft went down about one mile off the shore of Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate, along with local authorities, and the NTSB will determine the cause of the crash.

Units responding to the call put in to Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound included the United States Coast Guard, the Air National Guard, East Hampton Town police dive team, and the East Hampton Ocean Rescue Squad.

Beaches from East Hampton Main Beach to Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett have been closed to the public while the rescue effort continues.

Anyone with information regarding the crash is encouraged to contact the Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound command center at 203-468-4401 or on the radio at VHF-FM marine radio channel-16.The Lebanese taxi driver used by 60 Minutes in its botched child abduction has said he knew nothing of the kidnapping and two years on is deep in debt and facing criminal charges.

Khaled Barbour, now 34, spent six months in Lebanon's Ebbe jail in Tripoli, spent close to $15,000 in legal bills and lost his job for his role in driving Australian woman Sally Faulkner in a failed attempt to reclaim her two young children in Beirut.

After accepting an offer of US$500 in cash to 'drive foreigners around Beirut for two days' in 2016, Barbour said the decision 'destroyed his life', telling News Corp he 'had never been to a police station and all of a sudden I am in prison.'

Khaled Barbour (pictured), the Lebanese taxi driver used by 60 minutes in its botched child abduction has said he knew nothing of the kidnapping and is in debt and facing criminal charges

Barbour spent close to $15,000 in legal bills for his role in driving Australian woman Sally Faulkner in a failed attempt to reclaim her two young children in Beirut (pictured)

Claiming the ordeal has left him with no money, Mr Barbour said he had to sleep at a fire station where he has volunteered as a Civil Defence firefighter for 17 years.

Sally Faulkner went to Beirut to try to bring her two children Lahela, five, and Noah, three, back to Australia after they were taken to Lebanon by their 32-year-old father Ali Elamine in 2014.

Barbour, who was jailed for his part in the incident, said he was unaware what he was getting himself into.

'I didn't even know they were going to do a kidnapping ... God will take his revenge on them.'

Sally Faulkner (right) went to Beirut to try to bring her two children Lahela, five, and Noah, three, (pictured) back to Australia after they were taken to Lebanon by their 32-year-old father Ali Elamine (left) in 2014

Barbour works as a freelance driver as he has been unable to find work with a taxi company and now rents a taxi at the cost of $43 a day, the Daily Telegraph reported.

It has been two years since Noah, then three, and Lahela, then five, attempted to be taken from the streets of Beirut with Barbour as the getaway driver.

But Channel 9 left him behind in jail, failing to contact him or deliver on the promised payment, Barbour claims.

It has been two years since Noah, then three, and Lahela, then five, were attempted to be taken from the streets of Beirut with Barbour as the getaway driver

Mr Barbour's lawyer Yusuf Lahhoud told News Corp the wait would be between three and five years 'at a minimum' before a judge decided his client's guilt or innocence.

'60 Minutes bring him and put him in this situation without him knowing,' he said.

'He's innocent. He knows nothing. It was him as a taxi-driver.'

Although Barbour is currently free on bail, his mental health remains unclear.

Channel Nine has since avoided questions about what responsibilities the network held to Mr Barbour.

Daily Mail Australia contacted the Nine Network for comment but did not receive a reply by the time of publication.One of Australia's worst child sex offenders Brian Keith Jones, known as 'Mr Baldy', has narrowly avoided his fourth jail sentence after child porn videos and pictures were found in his backpack.

Despite being the owner of the backpack in question 'Mr Baldy' denied to police knowledge of a secret compartment full of child porn photos and videos on a memory card - The Victorian Magistrate's Court heard.

The backpack was found in the possession of 'Mr Baldy's' fellow sex pest Robert Paul Mackenzie who has been convicted for his suicidal threats in exchange for underage nudity from teenage girls.

Scroll down for Video

One of Australia's worst child sex offenders Brian Keith Jones, known as 'Mr Baldy, has narrowly avoided his fourth jail sentence after child porn videos and pictures were found in his backpack

'Mr Baldy', now 70, was excused from giving evidence in the Magistrate's Court on Friday after Mackenzie conceded his denial of knowledge was truthful.

Mackenzie initially inferred the memory card with child pornography on it was already in the backpack before he received it.

The blame was then shifted to a third Victorian sexual predator Robert Mason, who allegedly gave the memory card to Mackenzie told the Herald Sun.

Mackenzie's argument was unsuccessful and he was sentenced to nine months behind bars charged with possessing child exploitation material.

Some details from inside Friday's courtroom hearing cannot be revealed for legal reasons.

'Mr Baldy', now 70, was excused from giving evidence in the Magistrate's Court on Friday after Mackenzie conceded his denial of knowledge was truthful

Mackenzie has been in police sights since his history of preying teenage girls online and harboring child pornography began in 2009.

'Mr Baldy' got his nickname for his practice of shaving his victims' heads as well as forcing his victims to wear make-up and female clothing during his attacks.

Between 1979 and 1980 he sexually assaulted six boys between the ages of four and seven and pleaded guilty to 18 charges.

After an eight year sentence, 'Mr Baldy' was released despite a known plot documented on his tapes and distributed to his paedophile friends outside of jail: 'I know what my idea would be, is getting a young ... woman who may have two little children or something like that, only real bubbies or something, and put her into slavery and make her watch as the children are brought up as our own.'

Between 1979 and 1980 'Mr Baldy' sexually assaulted six boys between the ages of four and seven and pleaded guilty to 18 charges and was again convicted in 1992

'Mr Baldy' was released from Ararat Prison in July, 2005 and a public out-cry began

The tapes were seized by authorities but relapse was not far for the paedophile who within days began re offending and sexually assaulted the sons of a paedophile he met in jail aged six and nine.

'Mr Baldy' was again convicted in 1992 and sentenced to 12 years for aggravated rape, sexual penetration of a child under 10 and aggravated indecent assaults.

The Court of Appeal increased his sentence to 14 years with a minimum of 12 but 'Mr Baldy' was released from Ararat Prison in July, 2005 and a public out-cry began.

The Serious Sex Offenders Monitoring Act 2005 (VIC) was created for the unique case of Baldy's parole and integration back into the Victorian community of Ascot Vale - the act has since been repealed.

He was slammed with strict parole conditions that included restrictions on his movements, an electronic tag and was banned from using the internet.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) together with the Victoria Police are tackling the issue of child pornography rigorously

The public outcry saw the convicted man be moved to a cottage on the Ararat prison grounds when it was revealed the Ascot Vale house was near a primary school and a place where young children met.

Melinda Richards, lawyer for resident of Ascot Vale, Margaret Simons said: 'Had the media not found out Mr Jones was living there ... he may still be living next door to children of school age.'

Victoria's Department of Justice told a tribunal it would not be in the public interest to explain why one of Melbourne's most notorious sex offenders was housed near a primary school after his release from jail for child sex offences.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) together with the Victoria Police are tackling the issue of child pornography rigorously.

Deputy Commissioner Shane Patton said: 'Child exploitation images and online child sexual offences are some of the fastest growing crimes across the world,'

'This is fueled by rapidly advancing technology and new social media platforms where the ability for offenders to create, share and consume this material grows every day,'

'Offenders are actively taking steps to ensure they are not caught and police need to be able to keep up.'The family of real estate heir Robert Durst's ex-wife, who he is accused of killing, say they will drop their $100million dollar lawsuit against him if he reveals the location of her body.

Durst, 75, is suspected of killing his first wife Kathleen 'Kathie' Durst after she disappeared in New York in 1982.

Kathies three sisters Carol Bamonte, Mary Hughes and Virginia McKeon opened the lawsuit against Durst in 2015 over the disappearance of their sibling, whose body is yet to be found.

Their attorney Bob Abrams said the siblings, who have been accused of chasing after Dursts money, are willing to drop the lawsuit if he leads them to her body.

Millionaire Robert Durst, 75, is suspected of killing his first wife Kathleen Durst, pictured above in January at a pretrial hearing after he was charged with murder of friend Susan Berman

Durst, left, is accused of murdering Kathleen, right, who disappeared in New York in 1982, in a $100million lawsuit by Kathleen's sisters, who will drop the case if he reveals where her body is

'Just to be 100 percent clear if, in the next 48 hours, Durst or one of his co-defendants tells us where he dumped Kathies body so we can retrieve it, we would immediately drop this lawsuit against him,' attorney Bob Abrams told The Post Thursday outside court.

Durst, who comes from a wealthy New York real estate family who helped build the One World Trade Center, has been involved in pretrial hearings in Los Angeles for more than a year.

He is charged with the 2000 murder of Susan Berman, a longtime friend and confidante.

He is believed to have shot her dead to prevent her from telling police what she knew of his alleged murder of his first wife Kathie.

Prosecutors say that Durst killed Berman in fear she would expose him.

Kathleen and Durst pictured together prior to her disappearance 36 years ago in New York

Durst is in Los Angeles prison on charges of murdering Susan Berman, his longtime friend (together above), to whom he allegedly admitted to killing his wife and feared she'd tell police

He was arrested in New Orleans on March 14, 2015 and charged with killing Berman - who had acted as an informal spokeswoman for him, fielding constant media inquiries that followed Kathie's disappearance.

He was arrested a day after HBO's docu-series The Jinx aired, in which Durst was caught on air muttering under his breath 'What the hell did I do? Killed them all, of course'.

He is currently in Los Angeles prison as trials are on hiatus until October.

Durst claims he did not murder either of the two women.

He nor his legal team have responded to the offer of Kathie's family.

In court Thursday, Dursts lawyers argued for Nassau County Court Justice Roy Mahon to seal a letter written by a former cop that blames Durst for Kathies murder.

Judge Mahon will decide on June 14 if that letter in question will go public.

The letter, written by the cop on February 12, will 'inculpate Durst in the disappearance and murder of Kathleen McCormack Durst', according to attorney Abrams.A birthday celebration has turned into a bloody brawl leaving two men in hospital with stab wounds, twelve arrested and one teenage boy charged.

The teenaged boy is due to appear in court today charged after two men were stabbed during a brawl in Sydney's West overnight.

The wild brawl broke out after a large group of boys tried to crash a birthday party.

One of them who was stabbed is pictured here being wheeled into hospital

The fight erupted outside a birthday party in Quakers Hill on Saturday night

The host of the party allegedly refused to let the group into his Quakers Hill residence before the fight broke out are 10.30pm, 9News reported.

Two men aged 23 and 24 with stab wounds. The 23-year-old suffered a non-life threatening wound under his arm while a 24-year-old was stabbed in his torso and back.

Both of the men with stab wounds were taken by NSW Ambulance paramedics to Westmead Hospital where they remain in a stable condition.

Another five men, aged between 18 and 20, and six teenaged boys, aged between 15 and 17, were arrested at the scene and taken to Riverstone Police Station.

The 15-year-old boy form Blacktown has been charged with multiple offences including armed with intent to commit an indictable offence and wound person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

He was refused bail to appear in a childrens courton Sunday afternoon.

A large group of twelve boys, ten of them children, had tried to get into the party and were reused entry before the fight broke out

A 20-year-old man has also been charged with breach of bail; he is due to appear in Parramatta Bail Court today.

A witness says there were over 70 people in the street when the brawl broke.

'Just a bunch of boys punching on and a lot of girls screaming. I head them throwing glass and stuff,'she said.

'We had one car blocking the street and they were all trying to get out on the street. it was crazy.'

They were all taken to taken to Riverstone Police Station to await questioning.

Police were waiting for them to sober up overnight before they begun to interview them.

A crime scene has been established and is being forensically examined.

Anyone with information which can assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.Lord Tebbit has become embroiled in a furious row with the Lord Bishop of Leeds after he linked Christianity to the IRA's terror campaign.

The former Tory Party chairman, who was injured in the 1984 Brighton bombing, has written to the Bishop to denounce him for his remarks.

He told the Bishop, the Rt Rev Nick Baines, that the Republican group was 'responsible for hundreds upon hundreds of murders'  and the crippling of his wife.

Lord Tebbit (pictured with his wife who was crippled by an IRA attack left) has become embroiled in a furious row with the Lord Bishop of Leeds (right) after he linked Christianity to the IRA's terror campaign

The extraordinary dispute erupted following a recent Lords debate about Islam, which led to a clash between the Bishop and Ukip's Lord Pearson after he objected to Pearson's assertion that the Koran obliged Muslims to 'impose sharia law' on their host countries.

During a subsequent exchange of emails between the pair, seen by The Mail on Sunday, the Bishop wrote: 'No one in their right mind would deny a link between IS and Islam  or between Christianity and the IRA/UDF or Marxism and the Red Brigades, for example.

'But the connections are more complex than can be dealt with in an oral question.'

However, Lord Tebbit, who was copied into the discussion by Lord Pearson last month, shot back: 'I was concerned that you believe that 'no one in their right mind would deny a link between Christianity and the IRA'.

That is simply not so since I would most certainly deny a link.

'Indeed, I wonder what link you see between those responsible for hundreds upon hundreds of murders (among them five of my personal friends as well as the crippling of my wife) and Christianity?'

The attack on the Grand Hotel during the 1984 Tory Party conference killed five people and severely injured 30, including Tebbit and his wife Margaret. Lady Tebbit has been paralysed since the bombing.

The former Tory Party chairman Lord Tebbit, who was injured in the 1984 Brighton bombing (pictured injured after attack) has written to the Bishop to denounce him for his remarks

The Bishop had objected to Lord Pearson's remark in the Lords that 'several of our local authorities will soon be Muslim-majority and anger is already rising among our working class at the Islamification of their communities' and that Muslims were obliged to 'impose sharia law' on their host countries.

The Bishop accused Lord Pearson of 'bearing false witness'  or lying  leading to the exchange of emails. The Mail on Sunday revealed last month that Tebbit had described the new dean of his local cathedral in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, as a 'sodomite' because he was in a civil partnership with another clergyman.

Lord Tebbit said: 'I find it difficult to accept a sodomite as a member of the clergy who will, for example, be called upon to conduct marriage services. I will struggle to attend if he is officiating.'

Last night the Lord Bishop of Leeds said: 'I have responded to Lord Tebbit and our conversation will continue.'

And Lord Tebbit said: 'We have agreed we are going to have a drink together to talk it over.'The police and security services will get sweeping new powers and nearly 2,000 more agents in radical plans to beef up the UK's war on terror.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid marked the first anniversary of the London Bridge attack by promising a step change in the nation's counter-terrorism strategy to meet new challenges from extremists.

But last night the Government was warned that failure to give armed police officers better protection under law when they have to open fire was 'hindering' a key part of the anti-terrorism battle.

Police representatives also protested that there were still fewer armed officers than ten years ago  despite Government pledges to boost recruitment.

The police and security services will get sweeping new powers and nearly 2,000 more agents in radical plans to beef up the UK's war on terror

The new anti-terrorism measures, to be formally unveiled tomorrow, come in the wake of last year's attacks at Westminster, the Manchester Arena, Finsbury Park, London Bridge and Parsons Green tube.

Mr Javid paid tribute to victims of that 'shocking' London Bridge attack by vowing that tackling the terrorist threat was his 'first priority'.

The revised counter-terrorism 'Contest' strategy includes:

lTough new powers for MI5 and police to nip terrorism plots in the bud by arresting suspects at an early stage.

lA new Counter-Terrorism Bill to allow judges to hand down longer jail sentences for terrorists.

lUp to 1,900 new agents for MI5, MI6 and GCHQ to help keep far more suspects under surveillance.

Government sources say the new tactics are designed to meet the threat of Islamist terrorism  including extremists returning from Syria  and also the 'growing' danger of extreme Right-wing groups.

Mr Javid, who is due to attend a memorial service at Southwark Cathedral for the London Bridge victims later today, said the Government was working to put the 'best plans in place' to fight extremists.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid marked the first anniversary of the London Bridge attack by promising a step change in the nation's counter-terrorism strategy to meet new challenges from extremists

But he added: 'Ultimately, the strongest response is not just what we do but who we are. The best way to stop terrorists achieving their aims is to stand by our values of tolerance, fairness and go about our lives.'

But last night, there were claims the Government was dragging its feet on changing the law to spare armed police from over-long investigations if they have to open fire.

Former Met Police Commissioner Lord Hogan-Howe called on Ministers to complete a review of regulations governing armed police officers, launched in 2015 but which has still not reported.

Writing in Westminster's The House magazine, he insisted there was no evidence of armed police being 'trigger-happy' and said: 'The police do not expect immunity from accountability, investigation or prosecution. But the law should give them some comfort that they will be given the benefit of the doubt when making split-second decisions.'

Police Federation vice-chairman Che Donald warned the lack of clarity for armed police officers was 'hindering' the fight against terrorism.

Asked about why it has taken more than two years to complete the review, he said: 'The suspicion on my side is that it has been held back because it supports our assertion that there is no adequate protection for firearm officers and that would have deterred recruitment.'

A Home Office spokesman said the review was 'ongoing', adding that firearms officers did a 'vital and uniquely challenging job' but use of force had to be 'proportionate'.Killer Michael Adebolajo is said to have told inmates he regrets killing soldier Lee Rigby

One of the two jihadists who murdered soldier Lee Rigby has admitted his guilt in a jail confession, it has been reported.

Michael Adebolajo is said to have revealed his 'regret' and plans to write to Mr Rigby's family to apologise for the horrific slaying opposite the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich, London, in 2013.

The 33-year-old is understood to have expressed his remorse to fellow inmates and prison staff.

He is even said to have admitted he 'misinterpreted' the Koran having cited the Islam's holy book moments after the attack, which he carried out with accomplice Michael Adebowale, now 27.

A source told The Sun on Sunday: 'Adebolajo is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous extremists in the prison system.

'A month ago he approached a fellow inmate and a member of prison pastoral staff to say he finally regretted the murder and acknowledged he took an innocent life.'

According to other inmates Adebolajo now wants to apologise to Lee's family.

The killer is currently serving life behind bars in high-security HMP Woodhill, outside Milton Keynes.

Father-of-one Lee Rigby was murdered outside his barracks in Woolwich, London, in 2013

Lyn Rigby says she's repulsed by Adebolajo's change of heart and will never forgive him for murdering her son

Lee's mother Lyn Rigby is said to be repulsed by Adebolajo's change of heart and will never forgive him for killing her son five years ago.

She told The Sun on Sunday: 'To hear his killer say that Lee was innocent and that he regrets killing him is the ultimate kick in the teeth.'

The 51-year-old, from Middleton, Greater Manchester, has battled depression since the death of her son.Sir Stanley Spencer, who wore pyjamas under his suit and pushed around a pram in which he carried his canvas and easel

A stolen painting by Sir Stanley Spencer, one of Britain's most important  and eccentric  20th Century artists, has been returned to its owners after it was found under a drug dealer's bed.

Cookham From Englefield was valued at 1 million and on loan to the Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham, Berkshire, in 2012 when thieves broke in and removed the 1948 oil on canvas work.

In 2017, police raided a West London drug dealer's home and found the painting stashed in a bedroom along with 450,000 worth of cocaine and ecstasy.

Graphic designer Susan Elsden had lent the piece  commissioned by her grandfather, a friend of Spencer, below  to the gallery in the 1990s.

The family were later compensated under the Government Indemnity Scheme, run by the Department for Digital Culture, Media and Sport, which offers galleries an alternative to costly insurance, and the case is the first where owners have repaid their settlement to recover an artwork.

It was returned to the family last month.

Arts Minister Michael Ellis said: 'Spencer is one our most renowned painters and a true great of the 20th century. It is wonderful that this story has had a happy ending and the painting has been returned to its rightful owners.

'This has been made possible because of the Government Indemnity Scheme. It exists to protect owners when lending their works to public galleries. Without it there would be fewer world class pieces on display across the country for people to enjoy.'

Spencer, who died in 1959 aged 68, wore pyjamas under his suit and pushed around a pram in which he carried his canvas and easel.Education Secretary Damian Hinds unveiled plans to stop supply teacher agencies charging excessive fees

A crackdown on rogue firms who rip off the nations schools was launched last night.

Education Secretary Damian Hinds unveiled plans to stop supply teacher agencies charging excessive fees and save millions of pounds a year.

Schools across England spend more than 800 million a year hiring extra teachers from agencies to cover for permanent staff.

That includes up to 75 million a year spent on advertising for replacements.

Now the Government is setting up a free website for schools to advertise vacancies.

Headteachers will also be provided with a list of agencies that do not charge fees if supply teachers are later made permanent members of staff.

Companies on the list will also be required to give full details of their charges.

Hinds said: Every pound thats spent on excessive agency fees or on advertising jobs is a pound that I want to help schools spend on making sure every child, whatever their background, is inspired to learn and to reach their potential.

The website will be trialled in Cambridgeshire and the North East before it goes nationwide by the end of the year.This man is sought in the first three shootings in the Phoenix suburbs in recent days

Fears are mounting of a serial spree shooter in the Phoenix suburbs, after cops linked the killings of two women to the murder of a high-profile forensic psychiatrist who consulted on the JonBenet Ramsey case, and investigate whether a fourth murder is linked.

Police in the Phoenix suburb of Scottsdale said the killings on Friday of paralegals Veleria Sharp, 48, and Laura Anderson, 49, were related to the fatal shooting in Phoenix a day earlier of Dr. Steven Pitt.

Scottsdale police spokesman Sgt. Ben Hoster would not disclose what connected the first three victims, saying that was part of the investigation.

Cops are investigating the possibility that a fourth shooting, of psychologist Marshall Levine, early on Saturday in a nearby office park is also connected.

A suspect sketch was released after Pitt's shooting, showing a bald white male. A combined reward of $21,000 has been offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.

Veleria Sharp (left) and Laura Anderson (right) were shot dead on Friday at the law office where they work, which focuses exclusively on mediation and family law litigation

Sharp's husband, Saber Sharp (with her above), said in a statement that 'the world lost one of the finest women I have ever had the pleasure of knowing'

After one victim crawled for help despite a gunshot wound to the head, cops followed a trail of blood back to this building (file photo), the law office of Burt, Feldman, and Grenier

Police are investigating a string of shootings (above) in the Phoenix suburb of Scottsdale

The law office shootings are linked to the Thursday murder of forensic psychiatrist Pitt (left) who helped investigate the high profile 1996 JonBenet Ramsey (right) murder case

The second shooting, of Sharp and Anderson, occurred around 2.15pm on Friday at the Law Office of Burt, Feldman, and Grenier, which focuses exclusively on mediation and family law litigation.

One woman, despite being shot in the head, crawled from the building and onto the sidewalk on East 1st Street across from the Civic Center Library, where she flagged down a bus driver.

The driver called 911 and cops and paramedics rushed to the scene. But the woman was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital minutes later.

Police on the scene spotted a trail of blood and followed it into a nearby building, the office of Burt, Feldman, and Grenier, where they found a second shooting victim.

She was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

Sharp's husband, Saber Sharp, said in a statement that 'the world lost one of the finest women I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.'

'We welcome your love and prayers but will not be answering any questions at this time,' he added.

The firm law firm where Sharp and Anderson worked issued a statement saying the women were treasured by co-workers who were mourning their deaths and helping police with the investigation.

Sharp was praised as a wife and mother who cherished music and her faith. Anderson was described as a grandmother and mother with intellect and passion.

Just 10 hours after the murder of Sharp and Anderson, and about six miles away, the psychologist Levine was fatally shot in an office park.

Marshall Levine (above) was shot early on Saturday in his Scottsdale office, a friend confirmed to the local press. He is a counselor specializing in addiction and LGBT issues

Scottsdale Police Sgt. Ben Hoster (left) speaks to a reporter at the scene of the fourth murder on Saturday morning. Cops are investigating whether it is linked to the first three

Officers were called around 12.10am on Saturday about someone being fatally shot inside this business. The male victim has not yet been publicly identified by authorities

Levine was a counselor and psychologist who specialized in alcohol addiction recovery and LGBTG issues, according to his Psychology Today profile.

His life-coaching business, Peak Life Solutions, is located in the building where the shooting occurred.

Scottsdale Police Sgt. Ben Hoster said that officers were called to the office park at around 12.10am Saturday about someone being fatally shot inside a business.

Hoster says the call was made by someone who knows the male victim.

Police have yet to release the victim's identity, but a colleague of Levine's confirmed that he had been killed in interviews with local media.

Just three days earlier, on Thursday, the first shooting in the horror saga unfolded in Phoenix with the murder of the forensic psychiatrist Pitt, 59, who helped investigate the high profile 1996 JonBenet Ramsey murder case as well as a string of other killings in the area.

He was leaving his office at around 5:23pm when witnesses say they heard a loud argument then gunfire as he was shot on Thursday.

His office is located near the intersection of 71st Street and Bell Road in Scottsdale, a suburb of Phoenix.

Phoenix police say Pitt was 'critically wounded' when officers first arrived on the scene, according to ABC15.

Dr. Steven Pitt, 59, who helped investigate the high profile 1996 death of child beauty queen JonBenet Ramsey, has been shot dead outside his office on Thursday, pictured in June 2007

Phoenix Police put up this flyer in pursuit of the suspect, a white male, who fled the scene

Phoenix police spokesman Sgt. Vince Lewis says he has no information on whether the killing is connected to his work, according to Tuscon.com.

'We are not ruling anything out, but at this point, a loud argument probably suggests they knew each other either professionally or personally,' Lewis said.

Investigators have released a sketch of the suspect, who fled the scene.

Police describe him as a white man who is bald and was seen wearing a dark-colored hat with a short brim.

Pitt is known for assisting in the death investigation of six-year-old child beauty queen JonBenet after she was found brutally murdered in her Boulder, Colorado home.

The psychiatrist believed the pineapple found in JonBenet's digestive tract was a key to the investigation as it was proof she ate not long before she died.

Her mother Patsy said that the beauty queen hadn't eaten any fruit before she went missing, however the mother's fingerprints were found on the fruit bowl, raising Pitt's suspicions towards a cover up.

He was shot outside his Scottsdale, Arizona office, pictured above Thursday evening

Police gathered outside the office complex after gunfire rang out and Pitt was found dead

'The fingerprints on the bowl or cup that were used to give JonBenet the pineapple were Patsys fingerprints,' Pitt formerly said to People Magazine.

'It suggests someone is not telling the truth about what happened at that home that night,' he added.

A prosecutor later cleared her parents and brother in 2008 based on DNA evidence.

Pitt also aided in the investigation of the Baseline Killer in Phoenix in 2006, hunting down a man later convicted of killing nine people.

He also consulted in the 1999 Columbine High School shooting.

His most recent case was on a spree of shootings in the Maryvale area that started in April where six have been shot and one victim shot last month died from their injuries this week. The shooter in that case is still at large.

A friend of Pitt and a fellow Phoenix psychologist David Weinstock told the Arizona Republic he speculates a person connected to one of Pitt's criminal cases could be behind the shooting.

'I could be wrong, but the timing and circumstances sound a lot like someone who was waiting outside his office for him,' Weinstock said in an email.

'I suspect this was one who either got out after Steve helped put him away or someone whose case he was working on who felt threatened about what Steve could do,' he added.

JonBenet was a beauty pageant queen who was murdered in her home Christmas evening

Ramsey's home pictured sectioned off by police after she was found dead inside on Christmas night in 1996

Her mother Patsy Ramsey holds up a reward sign for information on her daughter's killer on May 1, 1997 after four months of media silence in light of her daughter's death

Weinstock added that he and Pitt had previously discussed the risks they face in their professions.

Despite the potential for danger, Pitt had not filed any protective orders as per Maricopa County Superior Court records, according to AZCentral.

Pitt worked as a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Phoenix at the time of his death.

'Dr. Pitt was beloved on this campus and went above and beyond mentoring our students and lecturing to our community,' Dean Guy Reed said in a statement in light of Pitt's death.

He gained recognition in his career for his work in forensic psychiatric evaluations and has appeared on a myriad of news shows to talk about his investigative work on his various high profile cases.

Joann Sanchez, the center manager of the complex that houses Pitt's office, says Pitt was a close friend who she called 'The Tin Man' because he had the 'biggest heart ever'.

Bobette Siegel, a licensed clinical social worker who also worked in the building said everyone in the complex knew Pitt.

'Its such a loss for his professional community, the forensic community, his family  and for me personally, she said.

On Saturday night, the reward for information in the shooting cases was raised.

Silent Witness and the Maricopa County Attorneys Office have combined rewards in this case of up to $11,000 leading to an arrest. ATF is offering an additional reward of $10,000 for information leading to a conviction.

Anyone with information about the shootings is urged to contact Silent Witness anonymously at 1-480-WITNESS.Mr Rees-Mogg, leader of the pro-Brexit Tory European Research Group (ERG), hit back by accusing Remain-supporting Tories of seeking to thwart an 'orderly Brexit'

Bitter Tory infighting over Theresa May's negotiations to leave the EU dramatically deepened last night as one of her Ministers openly condemned the 'madness' of a hard Brexit.

Ahead of a crucial Brussels summit on the shape of the Brexit deal, Business Minister Richard Harrington dismissed calls for Mrs May to pursue a cliff-edge break from the EU.

This was echoed by Damian Green, Mrs May's former deputy, who condemned arch-Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg for his 'obviously misleading arguments' and spouting 'Churchillian-sounding phrases about becoming a 'vassal state'.

Last night, Mr Rees-Mogg, leader of the pro-Brexit Tory European Research Group (ERG), hit back by accusing Remain-supporting Tories of seeking to thwart an 'orderly Brexit'.

The fierce exchanges erupted as Mrs May faces the most pivotal month of the entire Brexit process with her Cabinet deadlocked on the shape of the deal.

In just under a fortnight's time, the Commons is scheduled to vote on a series of amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill designed to soften the impact of Brexit and give MPs more influence over the final agreement.

Remain MPs believe that at least 15 Tories are prepared to join with Labour and vote against the Government and defeat Mrs May.

The EU has given the UK until the summit at the end of the month to set out its preferred post-Brexit customs arrangement.

But Mrs May is struggling to devise a plan to honour her pledge to quit the customs union and still avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic after her 'customs partnership' was blocked by Cabinet Brexiteers including Boris Johnson and Michael Gove. The deadlock has led some Tory MPs to dub No 10 the 'May Celeste' because it appears becalmed in the face of the crisis.

Remainer Mr Harrington said his ministerial portfolio, which includes the auto and aerospace industries, had convinced him of the need for the UK to secure a 'very sensible Brexit'.

He told The Mail on Sunday: 'I am against a real horrible hard Brexit. My portfolio shows it would be madness to have a hard Brexit and that's my view.'

Ahead of a crucial Brussels summit on the shape of the Brexit deal, Business Minister Richard Harrington dismissed calls for Mrs May to pursue a cliff-edge break from the EU

Former First Secretary of State Mr Green joined ex-Home Secretary Amber Rudd and former Education Secretary Justine Greening to visit Mrs May in Downing Street last week to reassure the Prime Minister that the 'quiet, solid centre' of the party supported her attempts to broker a solution.

Writing in this newspaper (see opposite) Mr Green said the troika had assured the Prime Minister that 'far from being isolated in her search for a pragmatic, workable solution, she does in fact have widespread support'.

Taking aim at Mr Rees-Mogg, he writes: 'One very damaging and misguided line of argument is that Britain is all-powerful in these negotiations, so the mere threat of our walking away will bring the Europeans promptly to heel... I am afraid that even my friend, the intelligent and energetic Jacob Rees-Mogg occasionally lapses in this way. Last week he overstated our negotiating strength in an obviously misleading way by claiming that the EU was under pressure to strike a deal 'because we buy more from them than they do from us by 100 billion a year'.

'All that tells us is that there are 450 million Europeans wanting to sell to us and only 65 million Brits selling to them.'

Former Cabinet Minister Nicky Morgan added her voice to the criticisms of the hardliners, using a speech in Dublin to argue: 'There is no majority in the UK Parliament for a hard Brexit but there is also no desire in the Conservative Party except for a few hardened members of something called the European Research Group for a change of leadership.

'Theresa May would win a vote of confidence among Conservative MPs. So all this sabre-rattling about early Elections and leadership challengers is exactly that, designed to put the pressure on to No 10 to come up with a hard or even potentially no-deal Brexit which would do enormous damage'.

Mr Rees-Mogg said: 'The ERG is supporting the Prime Minister and manifesto commitments to leave the single market and customs union. It is the Remainers who are trying to obstruct the Government's legislative agenda and an orderly Brexit.'

Pipe down Jacob, you're making Britain look weak! By Damian Green

Amid the cacophony of claims and rival claims over our departure from the EU, there's one fact we can all agree on. Brexit Day itself is now just nine months away and time is not on the UK's side.

This period will shape the future of Britain's relationship with Europe for decades to come.

As we approach the second anniversary in a few weeks' time of the fateful referendum, the negotiations with Brussels  already difficult  are about to become even tougher. So last week I went to No10 with colleagues Amber Rudd and Justine Greening to assure the Prime Minister that, far from being isolated in her search for a pragmatic, workable solution, she does in fact have widespread support from her party.

That may surprise readers used to the clamour from arch-Brexiteers and die-hard Remainers alike on the Tory benches. But it is time for those two camps to face reality.

Damian Green: Amid the cacophony of claims and rival claims over our departure from the EU, there's one fact we can all agree on. Brexit Day itself is now just nine months away and time is not on the UK's side

At this crucial juncture, any politician who wants a successful outcome for Britain needs to choose their words carefully.

Every Minister who goes to Brussels is struck by how closely domestic British arguments are followed there  and how they can be used against our vital national interests.

Many of us have had the experience of warning European leaders that just because an anonymous 'senior figure' is quoted in the press predicting doom and failure, or citing hopeless divisions within Government, this should not be taken as gospel truth.

This is a danger at the moment because the British negotiating team, from the Prime Minister down, has to be able to reach agreement on two separate fronts.

They have to come up with proposals which they can agree with the EU leaders. Then these proposals need to gain the approval of Parliament.

Of course, the EU side knows this only too well.

So the more the British side is restricted by domestic noises off, the tougher the stance the EU side will feel confident in taking. This cannot help Britain's case. One very damaging and misguided line of argument is that Britain is all-powerful in these negotiations, so the mere threat of our walking away will bring the Europeans promptly to heel. This is not just a misnomer: the fact that it is so clearly unrealistic has the effect of making Britain look even weaker.

I am afraid that even my friend, the intelligent and energetic Jacob Rees-Mogg, who runs the European Research Group inside the Conservative Party, occasionally lapses in this way

I am afraid that even my friend, the intelligent and energetic Jacob Rees-Mogg, who runs the European Research Group inside the Conservative Party, occasionally lapses in this way.

Last week he overstated our negotiating strength in an obviously misleading way by claiming that the EU was under pressure to strike a deal 'because we buy more from them than they do from us by 100billion a year'.

All that tells us is that there are 450 million Europeans wanting to sell to us and only 65 million Brits selling to them.

We all buy and sell to each other. While, indeed, 18 per cent of their exports come to us, a whopping 44 per cent of ours head across the Channel to other EU countries. No wonder British manufacturers are nervous. However, it is still clearly in the interests of both sides to strike a deal.

The steel tariff war with America highlights the need to retain strong pan-European ties  the better to flex our combined trading muscles. However, a deal is essential not just to keep trade flowing but to ensure our mutual security. Without the UK contribution to policing and anti-terrorism, the whole of Europe would be less safe.

If, for example, the European Commission continues to insist on removing the UK from the satellite communication system Galileo, then Europe as a whole will have a less effective and more expensive GPS tracking system. How exactly does that serve the people of the EU? So we do have some cards to play.

The Europeans should not be over-influenced by those who make the most noise at the two extremes of the argument in the UK, from some of Jacob's followers  who would be happiest if we made no deal at all  to those who want to rerun the referendum.

From the amount of heat generated by these two viewpoints, you would be excused for assuming that everyone in Britain either wants nothing to do with the EU ever again, or wants to carry on as though the vote never happened.

I believe this is a misreading of the public mood, and I know that this is not an accurate picture of the majority view inside the Conservative Party.

Certainly, if you are working in a car plant that depends on daily deliveries of parts from around Europe, or in an insurance company that wants to sell policies to other EU citizens, you mainly want to know that your job is not at risk

The centre of gravity on the issue is that we took a decision in 2016 and the Government's job is to make a deal that returns the powers people wanted exercised at home while minimising any damage to our economy that would come through barriers to trade.

If that means deciding to keep some of our rules the same as the EU rules for pragmatic reasons, then as long as we are taking that decision ourselves, it's fine.

As to what this means in detail, I am afraid that at this point we are in danger of moving on to arguments about different customs arrangements  and for most people this is understandably the moment to tune out.

Certainly, if you are working in a car plant that depends on daily deliveries of parts from around Europe, or in an insurance company that wants to sell policies to other EU citizens, you mainly want to know that your job is not at risk.

Politicians making grand warnings in Churchillian-sounding phrases about becoming a 'vassal state' don't help pay the bills.

The British people have always been a practical breed.

This will be a source of strength for a supremely pragmatic Prime Minister who can face the European negotiators across the table safe in the knowledge that her instincts are in tune with the people.

A country that voted 52/48 per cent to leave clearly wants Brexit but a Brexit that leaves us in a close and friendly relationship.Notorious businessman and property developer Salim Mehajer is facing financial ruin, after one poor investment decision sent him into almost $100 million dollars' worth of debt.

ASIC documents reveal Mehajer's 'Skypoint' high-rise development in Lidcombe, western Sydney turned catastrophic for the former Auburn deputy mayor after he pushed back the sale of the apartments and defaulted on his loan repayments.

The five-story investment was supposed to earn Mehajer tens of millions of dollars, The Daily Telegraph reports

But ambition and overreach turned the project into a costly deadweight.

Mehajer delayed the unit sales - and, in turn, his $73.5 million loan repayments - and submitted another development application to add four more storeys.

Notorious businessman and property developer Salim Mehajer is facing financial ruin, after one poor investment decision sunk him into almost $100 million dollars' worth of debt

Mehajer's 'Skypoint' high-rise development (pictured) in western Sydney turned catastrophic after he pushed back the sale of the apartments and submitted an application to add four more storeys

Cumberland Council rejected the application, and when Mehajer contested that decision in the NSW Land and Environment Court he was knocked back once again.

Meanwhile, Mehajer's companies defaulted on the loan from Hong Kong-based hedge fund SC Lowy, as interest and other penalty payments ratcheted the total debt up to $82 million by mid-2017.

From there, things rapidly escalated.

SC Lowy ordered Mehajer's companies to immediately repay all of the money owed - as per a clause in their contract - with massive penalty interest payments: blowing the debt out to almost $100 million.

Cumberland Council rejected the application, while Mehajer's companies defaulted on the $73.5 million loan (pictured: Mehajer with girlfriend Melissa Tysoe)

Other creditors claimed they were owed money; the development went into receivership; and it now looks increasingly likely that Mehajer won't be making a cent from the project

Other creditors came out of the woodwork to claim they were owed money; the development and the companies Mehajer used to build it went into receivership; and it now looks increasingly likely that Mehajer won't be making a cent from the project.

It's a catastrophic outcome for an investment that was supposed to save Salim - who currently sits in jail following a string of legal controversies.

'It was always (assumed that) as soon as John St is sold, he'll be sweet,' said an insider linked to Mehajer.

'It was a stupid, stupid move (to default on the debt).'

It's a catastrophic outcome for an investment that was supposed to save Salim - with a source close to Mehajer stating that 'It was always (assumed that) as soon as John St is sold, he'll be sweet.. It was a stupid, stupid move (to default on the debt)'

Mehajer still hopes to make back some of his losses, however: revealing plans to borrow as much as a further $82 million from overseas lenders

Mehajer still hopes to make back some of his losses, however: revealing plans to borrow as much as a further $82 million from overseas lenders during a bankruptcy appeal hearing in April.

During the hearing he made clear his intentions to continue the construction of five multi-million dollar projects - including one on John St, which he aims to put $75 million toward.

Justice Michael Lee refused to grant a temporary stay of Mehajer's bankruptcy, while the jailed businessman waits for the Court to hear his application for annulment of the bankruptcy.

A final hearing on that matter is set for June 21 and 22.

He made clear his intentions to continue the construction of five multi-million dollar projects - including one on John St, which he aims to put $75 million toward

Mehajer was the deputy mayor of Auburn Council between 2012 and 2016.

Office of Local Government figures have revealed that the Council - which was dissolved in February, 2016 - received 397 official complaints in the year leading up to its dissolution: the highest number of any NSW council since at least 2008.

Most of the complaints were reportedly for misconduct, maladministration or council governance, while many related directly to Mehajer's decadent wedding in August 2015 that saw him close down an entire street without authorisation.

Office of Local Government figures have revealed that Auburn Council received 397 official complaints in one year while Mehajer was deputy mayor - making it 'the most complained-about NSW council in recent memory'

The staggering figure grossly outweighs the common average of about 20 complaints per year - and serves as a serious indictment of the conduct of Mehajer and Auburn Council, says Local Government Minister Gabrielle Upton.

'It is to their discredit Auburn Council and Salim Mehajer hold the unenviable record of being a part of the most complained-about NSW council in recent memory,' she said.

'The NSW Government reforms  including a comprehensive Model Code of Conduct for councillors which is being finalised  will target dodgy behaviour and councillors who abuse their public office for personal or financial gain.'Two days after Roseanne Barr was fired from her show on ABC for racist tweets, the embattled star reached out and did a podcast with a controversial rabbi known for his opposition of gay marriage.

Barr reached out to New Jersey-based Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, a longtime spiritual advisor to the Jewish actress, where she was said to have been 'sobbing' over the controversy.

Barr was let go from her ABC show on May 29 after she posted a tweet calling Barack Obama's former advisor Valerie Jarrett a product of a 'Muslim Brotherhood and Planet of the Apes.'

On Thursday, Roseanne Barr reached out to New Jersey-based Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, a longtime spiritual advisor to the Jewish actress, so that she could cry and vent over all the backlash she received

A source privy to the show said that Barr - who has stayed in her Utah home since the chaos first started - was extremely emotional and rambling about her tweet.

She even was said to have been crying repeatedly, The Hollywood Reporter reported.

'She was sobbing and very apologetic about the whole thing,' claimed a source.

Barr was let go from her ABC show on May 29 after she posted a tweet calling Barack Obama 's former advisor Valerie Jarrett a product of a 'Muslim Brotherhood and Planet of the Apes'

Shmuley is known for his conservative viewpoints and is a supporter of President Trump

Barr has been extremely distant following the firing, even cancelling a planned appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast that was scheduled for Friday.

'She's not doing well and doesn't want to travel, and she's gone radio silent on me, so I'm just going to step away,' the comedian said.

Shmuley is known for his conservative viewpoints and is a supporter of President Trump.

He was at one point, Michael Jackson 's rabbi - even though the megastar was not Jewish.

When asked when the podcast would go live, Shmuley declined to comment.

He is known for his best-selling guide Kosher Sex.More than a year after a 55-year-old man mysteriously disappeared in outback Western Australia, a man has been arrested in relation to his death and burial in a shallow bush grave.

The body of Dean Patrick White was found just over a month ago 160kms east of Perth.

45-year-old Robert Troy Scanlon, was arrested and escorted by armed officers on a flight to Perth on Sunday after being extradited from Brisbane.

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Dean Patrick White, 55, (left) mysteriously disappeared in outback Western Australia more than a year ago. Robert Troy Scanlon (right) has been arrested in relation to his death

The body of Dean Patrick White, described as a bit of a loner and and an 'easy going guy who enjoys a beer', was found just over a month ago 160kms east of Perth (pictured)

Homicide detectives will allege Mr Scanlon buried Mr White in the bush grave, found about 200m away from the main road and a few kilometres from town.

He was charged with interfering with a corpse to hinder inquiry.

Mr Scanlon faced Brisbane Magistrates court on Saturday after being been held at Queensland's Woodford correctional facility and is set to face Northbridge Magistrate's court on Monday.

Mr White 'often travelled alone, and slept in his vehicle or the trailer. Although he kept to himself, he was friendly in nature,' Homicide Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Manus Walsh said.

His disappearance was considered unusual and treated as suspicious as 'he hasn't made contact with his family in over a year and his banking history has been inconsistent with his lifestyle,' Sergeant Walsh said at the time.

Mr White, who frequently travelled across Australia alone with his camp trailer, was last seen in the tiny rural wheatbelt town of Quairading

Homicide detectives will allege Mr Scanlon buried Mr White in the bush grave, found about 200m away from the main road and a few kilometres from the town of Quairading (pictured)

Mr White, who frequently travelled across Australia alone with his camp trailer, was last seen in the tiny rural wheatbelt town of Quairading.

His car was found dumped in Highvale, Queensland last June and unusual activity was recorded in his bank account.

He had been camping prior to his disappearance but was reported missing in August last year.

His family became concerned when they hadn't heard from him since wishing him a happy birthday and or after the news of his father's death where he failed to attend his father's funeral.

The investigation is ongoing.

Mr White 'often travelled alone, and slept in his vehicle or the trailer (pictured). Although he kept to himself, he was friendly in nature,' Homicide Detective Senior Sergeant Walsh saidAn online feud between two rappers almost turned deadly over the weekend after a shooting was reported outside a ritzy Midtown hotel.

Rapper Chief Keef, whose real name is Keith Farrelle Cozart, claims he was almost gunned down on Saturday following a confrontation with associates of New York rival Tekashi 6ix9ine.

'Yeah, I'm good,' the 22-year-old told The New York Post after leaving the Big Apple and landing safely back home in Los Angeles.

Rapper Chief Keef, whose real name is Keith Farrelle Cozart (L), claims he was almost gunned down by associates of Tekashi 6ix9ine (R)

'It's just beef between me and the rapper 6ix9ine,' Cozart added.

Tekashi 6ix9ine, whose real name is Daniel Hernandez, could not be reached for comment.

Police said that they responded to a shooting incident at around 6am on Saturday morning outside the W Hotel in Times Square, TMZ reported.

A bullet casing was found on the premises and authorities are currently looking for suspects, who they describe as two African-American individuals wearing black hoodies.

It remains unclear how many shots were fired during the incident.

Chief Keef said the incident occured in front of the W Hotel in Midtown on Saturday morning

Cozart, who was staying at the W, said the incident occurred as he was returning from a night out on the town.

'I was just scared a little bit and I didn't know what to do,' Keef told The Post.

'I went upstairs for a couple hours to cool off and I came back [outside]. I didn't know they were waiting for me.'

Cozart said that both men had guns but only one of them fired a shot.

According to the Post, the two musicians have been squabbling since Cozart recorded a song earlier this year threatening Hernandez, titled 'I Kill People.'

On Thursday, Hernandez uploaded a clip of himself taking aim at Cozart and his music collaborator Lil Reese, question their street credibility.

Hernandez also appears to be upset over domestic abuse allegations made by his friend Cuban Doll, who accuses her former boyfriend and Cozart associate, Tadoe, of assault.A family is demanding answers after a their beloved pet dog died while being transferred for a connecting Delta flight.

The eight-year-old Pomeranian named Alejandro, owned by Michael Dellegrazie, was found dead in the cargo hold of a Delta Air Line jet from Phoenix to New Jersey after a layover in Detroit.

The tragic incident adds to a long line of incidents involving the deaths of animals on commercial airlines.

Delta are investigating what happened to the pup, while the owner's family have hired a lawyer who worked on another case with similar circumstances.

Alejandro had been placed in the cargo hold of a Delta Air Line jet from Phoenix to New Jersey with a layover in Detroit

'There was a stop in Detroit at approximately 6 o'clock in the morning,' said owner Michael Dellegrazie's attorney, Evan Oshan. 'Alejandro was checked on. He was fine. Then approximately at 8 o'clock and 8:30 in the morning, the dog was again checked on, he was dead, and there was vomit in the cage, according to Delta'

Evan Oshan also represented the family of Kokito, the French bulldog that died on a United flight earlier this year.

He is trying to retrieve Alejandro's remains so vets can perform a necropsy to see what happened.

Delta offered to have a free necropsy done to have the dog evaluated

'There was a stop in Detroit at approximately 6 o'clock in the morning,' Oshan told ABC News.

'Alejandro was checked on. He was fine. Then approximately at 8 o'clock and 8:30 in the morning, the dog was again checked on, he was dead, and there was vomit in the cage, according to Delta.'

Delta offered to have a free necropsy done to have the dog evaluated, according to TMZ.

In a statement the airline said: 'We know pets are an important member of the family and we are focused on the well-being of all animals we transport. Delta is conducting a thorough review of the situation and have been working directly with Alejandro's family to support them however we can.

'As part of that review, we want to find out more about why this may have occurred to ensure it doesn't happen again and we have offered to have Alejandro evaluated by a veterinarian to learn more.'

And finding out what happened to Alejandro is Dellegrazie's top priorty.

'I want to know what happened,' he said. 'The dog is not a pet. He's a member of our family.'

According to the Department of Transportation, 506,994 different animals were flown on U.S. airlines in 2017. Twenty-four of them died.

In a statement the airline said: 'We know pets are an important member of the family and we are focused on the well-being of all animals we transport. Delta is conducting a thorough review of the situation and have been working directly with Alejandro's family to support them however we can'A media investigation into what goes on behind the closed doors of some of Australia's most elite university colleges has uncovered a toxic culture of abuse, alleged sexual assault and disturbing hazing rituals.

Almost 200 photos and videos from several Adelaide residential colleges, along with the testimonies of university students and victims, have been brought to light as part of an ongoing investigation by 60 Minutes.

Included in the explicit material is footage of a male student giving a lap dance to a female member of staff, as well as multiple reports of sordid private parties and incidents of sexual assault.

Scroll down for video

Photos and videos from several Adelaide residential colleges, along with testimonies of students and victims, have uncovered a toxic culture of abuse, alleged sexual assault and disturbing hazing rituals

Included in the explicit material is footage of a male student giving a lap dance to a female member of staff

One anonymous victim tells of the moment they revealed they'd been sexually assaulted to someone at their college.

'I said I had experienced sexual assault, and she said 'It's all part of growing up',' they recount.

'It's a toxic culture, it's rotten to the core,' says University of Adelaide's SRC president Matthew Boughey. 'People are angry, people are pissed off, people want to see actual change'

Other victims have expressed trepidation around telling their stories for fears that they might face public retribution and denial from fellow students.

It's a deplorable college culture that has prompted many students and leaders to call for action.

'It's a toxic culture, it's rotten to the core,' says University of Adelaide's SRC president Matthew Boughey.

'People are angry, people are pissed off, people want to see actual change.'President Donald Trump will host an Iftar dinner on Wednesday at the White House, in celebration of Ramadan, an official said.

Throughout the entire Muslim holy month of Ramadan, those who follow the religion fast from dawn to dusk, breaking the fast with a meal referred to as an Iftar.

'[T]hose observing Ramadan can strengthen our communities, help those in need, and serve as good examples for how to live a holy life,' Trump said in a statement released on May 15.

This comes after Trump broke decades of tradition by failing to host a Ramadan dinner at the White House in 2017, and while the US Supreme Court is reviewing the third version of his travel ban for 'anti-Muslim intent.'

President Donald Trump will host an Iftar dinner on Wednesday at the White House, in celebration of Ramadan, an official said; President Donald Trump is see here on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC on June 1

Each of former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton held Iftar dinners during their presidencies.

Obama noted during his presidency that 'Muslim Americans have been part of our American family since its founding,' as reported by the Independent.

The tradition of hosting a White House Iftar dates back to at least December 1805. when former President Thomas Jefferson hosted Tunisian ambassador Sidi Soliman Mellimelli during the American conflict with what were known as the Barbary States.

'Dinner will be on the table precisely at sun-set,' the invitation read.

And diary entries by John Quincy Adams noted that dinner was served at a late hour as it was 'in the midst of Ramadan.'

Then-first lady Hillary Clinton, now former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, brought the tradition back in 1996.

Muslims partake in Iftar Dinner during Ramadan at the Karbala Islamic Center on May 18 in Dearborn, Michigan

But in 2017, the Trump administration decided to forego the dinner, and issued only a statement on June 24.

'Muslims in the United States joined those around the world during the holy month of Ramadan to focus on acts of faith and charity," the statement read. 'Now, as they commemorate Eid with family and friends, they carry on the tradition of helping neighbors and breaking bread with people from all walks of life.

'During this holiday, we are reminded of the importance of mercy, compassion, and goodwill. With Muslims around the world, the United States renews our commitment to honor these values. Eid Mubarak.'

'Eid Mubarak' is a traditional Muslim phrase that can be translated as, 'have a blessed holiday.'

That phrase is used during the holy festivals of Eid al-fitr and Eid al-Adha, according to the Sun.

Eid-al-Fitr follows the month of fasting for Ramadan, which ended last year on June 24.

Eid celebrations continue for different lengths of time in different cultures.

Imam Husham Al Husainy leads prayer during Ramadan at the Karbala Islamic Center on May 18 in Dearborn, Michigan

This year, a dinner will accompany the statement signed by Trump, which started off by saying, 'I send my greetings and best wishes to all Muslims observing Ramadan in the United States and around the world.'

The statement ended with a different traditional Muslim salutation than it did in 2017, reading:

'As so many people unite to celebrate Ramadan, Melania and I join in the hope for a blessed month. Ramadan Mubarak.'

'Ramadan Mubarak' translates to wishing the recipient a 'blessed or generous Ramadan.'

In the same statement, Trump said, 'Ramadan reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry of American life.'

All of this messaging is in stark contrast to Trump's call during his presidential campaign for a 'total and complete' ban on all Muslims entering the country.

As president, Trump's controversial travel ban has actually restricted citizens from several mostly Muslim countries from entering the US.

Trump looks on during a Change of Command ceremony as Admiral Karl Schultz takes over from Admiral Paul Zukunft as the Commandant of the US Coast Guard at US Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC, on June 1

That travel ban, now in its third version, is under further review by the US Supreme Court, which has Tasmiha Khan thinking the timing of Trump's choice to host the Iftar dinner is a bit too cute.

'As the Supreme Court decides whether the Travel Ban is rooted in anti-Muslim bigotry, Trump decided to recognize Ramadan by issuing a statement acknowledging Muslims humanely,' Khan wrote in an opinion piece for Newsweek.

'This turn of events is hardly coincidental.'

She added: 'At the end of April, the president declined to walk back or apologize for past biased remarks about Muslims. Now, we see a perfectly-timed attempt to dilute Trump's clear history of anti-Muslim bigotry by "connecting" with Muslims over an Iftar.

'It would be naive to view this apparent change of heart toward Muslim Americans as anything other than an attempt to divert attention from his previous anti-Muslim statements.'

Khan detailed how Trump's rhetoric has had a tangible impact on Muslim communities.

'President Trumps anti-Muslim agenda extends beyond his attempts to enact a Muslim ban. The cabinet and West Wing are chock-full of officials who hold anti-Muslim views. This climate of fear and bigotry has resulted in a rise in hate crimes targeting Muslim Americans based on how they pray and the color of their skin,' she said.

The Net Impact Racial Equity and Germanacos Interfaith Youth Core Fellow at Claremont Lincoln University's online graduate degree program based in California, where is pursuing her MA in Social Impact, noted what she thinks the president must do to properly address the things he's said and done, relating to American Muslims.

'While the White Houses possible Iftar is concerning, the Trump administration should withdraw his hateful statements and follow them up with apologies,' she said.

'His actions should align with his words, and only then can there be connection with the local Muslim community.'

Ramadan ends on June 14 this year. The list of invitees to the White House Iftar taking place on June 6 has not been released.An off-duty cop in Texas was refused service at a popular fast-food chain restaurant on Thursday after entering the premises with a gun.

Whataburger said that it has apologized to the unidentified Friendswood Police Department officer for turning him away from their FM 528 location.

The police department said that the plain clothes detective had entered the Whataburger Thursday morning with a gun on his side and a badge clearly visible next to it, according to ABC affiliate KTRK 13.

Whataburger said that it has apologized to the unidentified Friendswood Police Department officer for turning him away

That's when an employee at the Whataburger branch informed the cop that it was store policy not to serve customers who openly carry weapons inside the restaurant.

Police said that the detective attempted to explain to the manager that he was an officer, but all to no avail.

After word spread through town about the incident, loyal customers of the Whataburger brand expressed outrage that a law-enforcement officer would be subjected to such treatment.

'I think it stinks,' one eyewitness told KTRK 13. 'Our law enforcement are.. our heroes, they shouldn't have done that.'

The eyewitness, who did reveal her name, said that the officer only wanted a cold glass of water before being asked to leave.

The police department said that the plain clothes detective had entered the Whataburger Thursday morning with a gun on his side and a badge visibly on his side

Whataburger released a statement the next day apologizing for the incident, expressing remorse for what it called an 'unfortunate misunderstanding.'

'It was an unfortunate misunderstanding of our open carry policy, and we've talked to the detective to make this right,' the statement reads.

'He was understanding, accepted our apology and said he plans to come back to Whataburger. Our company policy allows law enforcement with proper identification to open carry at our restaurants, and we'll be reinforcing this policy with employees through additional training.'

The statement added: 'We've also been in contact with the Friendswood Police Officers Association. We want to make it clear that this detective and all law enforcement are welcome in our restaurants and we're proud to serve them.'A Sydney public school has put up a sign warning tourists to stop taking pictures of its students after a wave of complaints from worried parents.

The sign has been up for more than 12 months at Glebe Public School yet tourists are still flocking to take photos  even going as far as to enter through the school gates.

The primary school based in Sydney's inner west has put up a sign stating 'Please do not take photos of the Glebe Public School students' in English, Mandarin, Arabic and Spanish.

A Sydney public school has put up a sign warning tourists to stop taking pictures of its students after a wave of complaints from parents

(FIle image) The sign read: 'Please do not take photos of the Glebe Public School students' in English, Mandarin, Arabic and Spanish

Glebe Public School P&C Association president Verity Firth told The Telegraph, 'I think it is fair enough that you dont take photographs of kids through the school gate.'

According to the Department of Education's policy, consent from a student's parent or guardian is required before taking or publishing photographs.

The school is said to have consulted with police, City of Sydney council and the Education Department before posting the sign at the schools entrance, The Telegraph reports.

Sydney sightseeing buses are known to park outside Glebe public school on its way to the University of Sydney.

(Left) Vicki Pogulsis who signed off the notice telling tourists not to take pictures of the public school's students. (Right) primary school students at Glebe Public School

Sydney University students have taken to social media on the large number of tourists taking pictures on campus.

A previous post on Usyd rants read: 'Spotted: Tourists taking tourist photos in the New Law Building. As you do. Because it is a tourist attraction up there with The Harbour Bridge, the Opera House.'

One user commented: 'Remember that time during lecture a group of them were standing near the lecture theatre door? Lol I felt like an animal in the zoo.'

Another said: 'This is a uni not a tourist attraction - go wander across the harbour bridge or something rather than taking 500 photos of frazzled students making their way to class with you in the foreground.'

The University of Sydney is ranked no. 69 out of 555 in the top things to do in Sydney, according to Trip Advisor.

Sydney University students have taken to social media on the wave of tourists taking pictures on campusAdvertisement

While the largest wildfire in California was just declared contained, both Colorado and Mexico have been hit with massive blazes causing hundreds to evacuate.

The 416 Fire - as the one in Colorado is referred to - has scorched 1,974 acres and has only been 10 percent contained, according to the La Plata County Government on Facebook.

U.S. Highway 550 was closed as a result from mile marker 35.5 and 43.5.

The 416 Fire was first reported around 10.02am just 10 miles north of Durango, Colorado, and to the west of the highway.

The 416 Fire - as the one in Colorado is referred to - has scorched 1,974 acres and has only been 10 percent contained

More than 1500 residents were advised to evacuate the area

At least 20 air resources were dispatched to fight the flames, 'including single engine and heavy tankers and type 1 and 2 helicopters, 14 engines, 4 hotshot crews, multiple Type 2 initial attack crews, and a water tender.'

In addition, 200 personnel have also been put out to respond to the fire.

More than 1500 residents were advised to evacuate the area.

Roughly 825 residences were under mandatory evacuation orders on Saturday while another 760 were under a pre-evacuation notice.

Roughly 825 residences were under mandatory evacuation orders on Saturday while another 760 were under a pre-evacuation notice

The 416 Fire was first reported around 10.02am just 10 miles north of Durango, Colorado, and to the west of U.S. Highway 550

The Forest Service said the intensity of the Colorado wildfire, known as the 416 Fire, had slightly diminished by Saturday morning and that firefighters were focused on protecting neighborhoods and infrastructure.

Two evacuation centers have been opened for residents to check in, which will be vital to returning to the area when the fire subsides.

The blaze in New Mexico - called the Ute Park Fire in Colfax County - destroyed about a dozen empty buildings on the Boy Scouts' storied Philmont Ranch and threatened nearly 300 homes, officials say.

Almost 30,000 acres were said to have been burned so far in the blaze.

At least 20 air resources were dispatched to fight the flames, 'including single engine and heavy tankers and type 1 and 2 helicopters, 14 engines, 4 hotshot crews, multiple Type 2 initial attack crews, and a water tender'

Almost 30,000 acres were said to have been burned so far in the blaze of the Ute Park Fire

The flames were first reported Thursday and ballooned quickly in a part of New Mexico hardest hit by a severe drought gripping the American Southwest.

'The Village of Cimarron is STILL safe,' village councilor Laura Gonzales said on Facebook. 'Continue to pray for our community.'

More than 60 per cent of the U.S. West is experiencing some level of drought, the latest federal drought maps show, forcing national forests and other public lands to close because of escalating fire danger.

The area where Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado meet is at the center of a large patch of exceptional drought.

Dry, windy and warm weather was expected to make conditions worse as the New Mexico fire burned on state and private land, including part of the Boy Scouts' ranch, state forestry spokeswoman Wendy Mason said.

The blaze destroyed about a dozen empty buildings on the Boy Scouts' storied Philmont Ranch and threatened nearly 300 homes, officials say

Evacuation centers have been set up in northeastern New Mexico as heavy smoke from a wildfire has forced residents from Cimarron and the surrounding areas to leave their homes

Smoke being reported in Trinidad and surrounding areas is from Ute Park fire in northern New Mexico

Estimates put the blaze at more than 25 square miles (66 square kilometers). Its cause isn't known.

Officials say no scouts were at the ranch and all staff members were accounted for. Employees who live in the nearby community of Cimarron were allowed to leave to care for their families.

Authorities ordered residents in Cimarron and surrounding areas to evacuate Friday as the smoke drifted east.

At the historic St. James Hotel in Cimarron, the phone went unanswered after the popular tourist destination had emptied out along with the rest of the town.

The U.S. Postal Service also evacuated post offices in Cimarron and the smaller community of Ute Park, telling residents they would have to travel about 25 miles (40 kilometers) away to get their mail.

Plumes of smoke from a wildfire near Cimarron, N.M., rise in the background Friday, June 1, 2018

The flames were first reported Thursday and ballooned quickly in a part of New Mexico

Officials were concerned about air quality. Evacuation centers were set up in nearby towns as residents shared information on social media about where to take refuge and where animals and livestock could be left.

Forecasters said the towering plume of smoke had reached about 20,000 feet (6,100 meters).

A top-tier incident management team was being assigned to the Ute Park Fire, which had crossed a highway and forced its closure. Other roads also were closed.

Crews used several air tankers and a few helicopters to fight the flames from above.

In western New Mexico, gusty winds fanned a wildfire that has burned 38 square miles of forest, blowing embers past containment lines and starting spot fires.

Officials said about one-third of the fire was contained as of Friday, but firefighters faced the challenge of having to both stop the growth of the main fire while patrolling for spot fires. That human-caused fire started May 22 and is east of Reserve on the Gila National Forest.

More than 60 per cent of the U.S. West is experiencing some level of drought, the latest federal drought maps show

Smoke from a wildfire in New Mexico permeates the air around Fishers Peak in Trinidad, Colorado

Dry, windy and warm weather was expected to make conditions worse as the New Mexico fire burned on state and private landMurray Deakin (pictured) allegedly stabbed his grandmother to death on Friday afternoon

A man accused of murdering his grandmother in a shocking knife attack has fronted court wearing a hospital robe and with cuts on his face.

Murray Deakin allegedly attacked his grandparents Gail Winner, 69, and her husband Thomas, 71, inside their home in the town of Bega, in New South Wales, on Friday afternoon.

The 20-year-old faced Batemans Bay Local Court on Sunday, charged with one count of murder and two counts of wounding with intent to murder.

Police will allege Deakin stabbed Mr and Mrs Winner about 3.30pm on Friday, before fleeing the scene and causing a frantic five-hour police manhunt.

Wearing just the hospital gown and shorts as he faced court on Sunday, Deakin said the words 'I'm sorry' as he was led from the courtroom by police, the ABC reports.

Deakin allegedly attacked his grandparents Gail, 69, and Thomas Winner, 71, inside their home (pictured) in the town of Bega, in south-east New South Wales, on Friday afternoon

Police dust for fingerprints at the Bega home where Deakin was reportedly living with his grandparents

It was not clear what Deakin was apologising for.

Deakin, who was reportedly staying with his grandparents, allegedly attacked both of his relatives multiple times with the knife.

Mr Winner, who was also suffering from stab wounds, made his way out onto East St and attempted to flag down a passing motorist.

When emergency services arrived at the home they reportedly found Mrs Winner in a critical condition.

She was rushed to South East Regional Hospital, but died later that afternoon.

Mr Winner was airlifted to Canberra Hospital and remains in a critical condition.

Approximately an hour after emergency services became aware of the alleged knife attack, Deakin is said to have flagged down a car and attacked the driver.

It's alleged he hit a man in the head with a hammer, leaving him with critical injuries.

A female passenger was able to escape unharmed.

Deakin was refused bail and is expected to reappear in Batemans Bay Local Court on Monday

Deakin then allegedly drove off in the car, before crashing 500 metres down the road and fleeing into bushland.

Police called in helicopters, negotiators and special tactical operatives to capture him and arrested him at about 8.20pm.

Deakin did not apply for bail and it was formally refused. He is due to reappear in the same court on Monday via video link.A reckless daredevil who scaled onto the roof of a shopping centre before jumping onto a huge art installation has caught the attention of authorities after his stunt went viral.

A video of the man has surfaced on social media and shows him climbing onto the transparent canopy in Adelaide's mall.

He then jumps onto the Mall's Balls, as they're affectionately called, which are over four metres in height, before doing a dance to celebrate the stunt.

The daredevil (pictured) ran down the clear canopy of the centre before launching himself into the air

As he made it safely he stood up proudly and then broke out in a dance

Onlookers can be seen cheering in celebration as he lands safely on the giant orbs.

The video, which was shared by the account S***Adelaide, has been watched more than 44,000 times and attracted more than 1000 comments.

It is unclear how the man got off the statue but police confirmed they had no record of the incident which means he was likely to have gotten off safely.

'The man's actions are dangerous and reckless with potential to cause serious injury to himself or others,' a spokeswoman said in a statement to The Advertiser.

'Police are aware of the video on social media and are investigating.'

This isn't the first time the balls have scaled.

he was then seen to enter the plank position onto of the balls while people cheered below

In 2013 a Kudla man spent ten minutes sitting on top of the balls recording a birthday message for a friend.

After police were called to the scene he was forced to get down with the help of a ladder and a few firefighters.

At the time the man said he would not give away how he managed to get to the top of the sculpture but that he did not use a known method.

The balls are an iconic landmark in the city and have been there since 1977

The method preferred by rebels previously has involved a ladder and two wheelie bins.

In 2007 a group of men were filmed using the bins to hold up the ladder so one of their friends could scale the statue.

The Balls are one of Adelaide's most famous landmarks.

Officially titled 'The Spheres' they were unveiled in 1977 and designed by Austrian-born visual artist Bert Flugelman.A man is fighting for life and two young children have been injured after an Uber and van collided in Melbourne's inner city.

Five people were rushed to hospital after reportedly being injured in the crash about 3.45pm on Sunday.

Victoria Police say one adult is in a serious condition, while the second adult and the two children all suffered injuries.

A preschool-aged child was thrown from a pram after the car hit nearby pedestrians.

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A man is fighting for life and two young children have been injured after an Uber and van collided in Melbourne 's inner city

Five people were rushed to hospital after reportedly being injured in the crash about 3.45pm on Sunday

Victoria Police said a 'share car' lost control after being struck, and hit a number of pedestrians on the street corner and hit cars waiting at nearby traffic lights.

The exact cause of the collision is being investigated and the drivers of both vehicles are assisting police.

The crash involved a Royal Automobile Club of Victoria van.

The two children are at Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. A hospital spokeswoman said the older child is in a stable condition while the younger child is in a serious condition.

Victoria Police say one adult is in a serious condition, while the second adult and the two children all suffered minor injuries

Sydney woman Nicole Brown was in the passenger seat of the Uber when it collided with the van at the intersection of William Street and La Trobe Street.

'We went to turn, when suddenly a yellow RACV van came up on the inside lane and clipped the car we lost control,' she told Nine News.

'We started spinning and took out all these people.'

Detective acting sergeant Mark Kelly said the driver of the van rad a red light, and is now cooperating with police.

'The scene was chaotic but it was well managed by all emergency services,' he told news.com.au.

'The driver stopped immediately and is very co-operative. He's obviously in shock.'

He said police believe the crash was accidental.

Sydney woman Nicole Brown was in the passenger seat of the Uber when it collided with the van at the intersection of William Street and La Trobe Street

Witnesses at the scene claimed an Uber driver attempted a U-turn moments before the crash.

Investigations into the crash are ongoing, and there are expected to be charged laid against the driver of the van.

Two of the adults have been taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital, while the other adult has been taken to St Vincent's Hospital.

An RACV spokesperson said they are 'very concerned for the health and wellbeing of all the people involved in the accident'.

'RACV will offer any relevant assistance where we can.'

More to comeA violent gang campaign being waged in a maximum security prison has left guards scared for their safety and unwilling to come to work.

The Corrections Department of new Zealand has confirmed that it was forced to bring in guards from another prison after a high number of it's staff called in sick on Sunday because of the recent attacks.

A guard was attacked by an inmate on Saturday and at least 30 staff refused to come in the following day, Stuff reported.

A violent gang campaign has left prison guards in New Zealand unwilling to work

The campaign of 'organised violence' from gang member inmates has been directed at guards for several months now.

Saturday's attack was the fifth assault on a guard at the prison in the past week.

Alan Whitley, president of prison staff union the Corrections Association, said staff called sick because they were worried about the lack of safety procedures after seeing their colleague attacked.

'They were basically moving the prisoner and he lashed out without any warning and punched a staff member,' Whitley said.

'The staff member needed to go to hospital to be checked and treated. I understand he's recovering well at home at the moment.'

On Friday another officer was also hit in the face by a prisioner with gang affiliation.

On Sunday 30 guards called in sick after a week that saw five attacks on staff

The violence, which typically involved punches to the head or upper body, was taking place in the prison's maximum security blocks.

'Any assault on a staff member is serious, but these are particularly concerning because they're happening within a very short period of time. And they're coming out of nowhere. There's no build-up to them,' Whitley said.

He added that there needed to be more controls on how prisoners were moved around because most of the attacks happened when guards were taking them outside for exorcise or to the shower blocks.

The violence is being waged by gang inmates in the maximum security section

The Corrections Department has said it is working with police to make sure the inmates were held accountable and that support is being offered to staff members.

Auckland prison is the countries only maximum security facility and is over 50 years old.

A new $300milion facility is set to open at the prison this year.

As part of the upgrade guards will be fitted with stab-resistant body armour and have an expanded use of pepper spray.A truck driver has left a path of destruction before smashing into a row of parked cars on a main highway in Sydney.

The man who was driving a tip truck was being chased by police up to a main intersection in Burwood in Sydney's inner-west at about 4pm on Saturday.

Video footage reveals the truck speeding along the main road before hitting into a row of three parked cars and a motorcycle.

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A truck driver has left a path of destruction (pictured) before smashing into a car on a main highway in Sydney

The man who was driving a tip truck (pictured) was being chased by police up to a main intersection in Burwood, Sydney's west

After leaving a line of wrecked cars, he then accelerated up to the busy intersection of Paisley and Shaftesbury Road.

Police said they stopped the driver of the vehicle and spoke to him briefly before he took off.

A pursuit began and the truck was followed at low speeds through Burwood, Strathfield, Enfield, Campsie and Croydon Park.

As the truck travelled along Burwood Road it allegedly cross to the wrong side of the road and hit several parked cars.

A police helicopter continued to track the truck after the car pursuit was called off due to safety fears. The truck then came to a stop in Lidcombe.

A 27-year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken to Auburn Hospital for mandatory testing.

He was then taken to Burwood Police Station and charged with police pursuit - not stop, drive whole intoxicated (second offence), five counts of not stopping and exchanging particulars and two counts of not exchanging details with owner of damaged property.

The man was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Local Court on Sunday.A new report has found that the high cost of living is the main reason adult children refuse to move out of their family home - and it's costing Australian parents $235 million a WEEK.

Australia's finance statisticians at Mozo conducted a 1000 participant survey to discover stay-at-home adults are responsible for $12.2 billion a year in Australia.

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data indicates that roughly one in three adults under the age of 35 are remaining at home.

Australia's money saving zone, Mozo, conducted a 1000 participant survey to discover stay-at-home adults are responsible for $12.2 billion a year in Australia

In addition to not being able to afford moving out, a desire to save money, cultural norms, location and proximity to family members also made the list of reasons.

The study by Mozo found that 60 percent of stay-at-home adults also pay no rent and 75% don't give a dime for the household bills either.

Fairfax journalist Larissa Waterson, 25, took the leap and moved out of her family's North Shore home for 6 months - only to return shortly afterwards.

Fairfax journalist Larissa Waterson (pictured), 25, took the leap and moved out of her family's North Shore home for 6 months - only to return shortly afterwards

Miss Waterson told Nine Finance: 'When I moved out, I found with the wage that I was on it was just so hard,'

'I still don't feel comfortable saying that I can make it on my own, go out into the world and support myself because I've tried that and while I was saving a little bit it wasn't enough to focus on my future.'

Larissa's parents are among the many parents that are happy to have their children at home while they save for bigger goals such as a deposit for a property.

Mozo Marketing Director, Kirsty Lamont said: 'Overall, it seems Aussie parents are pretty understanding about their kids' needing to live at home. We all understand that it can be tough when you start out on your own and parents want to help give their kids the best start possible.'

The boomerang effect where 'kidults' attempt to move out but then come back is a prominent trend in Australia.

The boomerang move where 'kidults' attempt to move out but then come back is at the forefront of trends also

Sunshine Coast mother, Maree Ram, told the Inverell Times her daughter moved out at 18 but returned home strapped for cash with a new-found realization about what it costs and takes to run a household.

Ms Ram, like a number of parents with stay-at-home adults takes on an earn or learn approach.

She told her daughter, aged 21: 'If you're not studying, you need to pay board.'

Ms Ram found that her daughter began contributing to the household in other ways such as by babysitting younger siblings whilst she was studying.

The Mozo survey also found one in 10 adult children at home do the same while nearly 60 per cent compensate their parents by cooking, cleaning and other household tasks.Theresa May might have been seeking divine inspiration on Brexit today, as she was pictured making her regular visit to church in her Maidenhead constituency

Britain could suffer shortages of food and medicine within weeks of a 'Doomsday' no-deal Brexit, a leaked Whitehall assessment has claimed.

The bloodcurdling warning about the impact of failing to reach any agreement with the EU has emerged as Theresa May's negotiations with the bloc reach a crucial stage.

It said the port of Dover could collapse almost immediately, and raised the prospect of food and medical supplies being flown into Cornwall and Scotland by the military.

But David Davis's Brexit Department played down the fears insisting a 'significant amount of work' had gone into planning for 'no deal' and 'none of this would come to pass'.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid also insisted he did not 'recognise' the chilling conclusions from the assessment.

Mrs May might have been seeking divine inspiration on how to secure a breakthrough today, as she was pictured making her regular visit to church in her Maidenhead constituency.

Last month officials from the Brexit, health and transport departments 'gamed' three scenarios for a no-deal Brexit, according to the Sunday Times.

They considered a 'mild' outcome, a 'severe' shock, and one dubbed 'Armageddon'.

A source said: 'In the second scenario, not even the worst, the port of Dover will collapse on day one.

'The supermarkets in Cornwall and Scotland will run out of food within a couple of days, and hospitals will run out of medicines within two weeks.'

The assessment suggested that charter aircraft or the RAF would have to be used to ferry supplies around the country.

'You would have to medevac medicine into Britain, and at the end of week two we would be running out of petrol as well,' the source said.

The Prime Minister and husband Philip attended the Sunday service as usual in her Maidenhead seat

Home Secretary Sajid Javid told the BBC's Andrew Marr show he did not 'recognise' the chilling conclusions from the assessment

David Davis's Brexit Department played down the fears insisting a 'significant amount of work' had gone into planning for 'no deal' and 'none of this would come to pass'

However, a spokesman for the Department for Exiting the EU rejected the claims.

'A significant amount of work and decision making has gone into our no deal plans, especially where it relates to ports, and we know that none of this would come to pass,' the spokesman said.

Mr Javid said he did not recognise the 'doomsday' scenarios.

Nearly one in six voters think May should quit after Brexit Nearly six in 10 voters think Theresa May should quit after Brexit talks are completed, according to a poll. Research by Deltapoll found 56 per cent wanted her to stand down next March - although 59 per cent of Tory voters believe she should stay on. Some 57 per cent fear the UK's negotiating team are making a hash of the exit talks. However, the survey conducted for the Sun on Sunday suggests the public has no clear successor in mind. Boris Johnson is the most popular replacement, but only has backing from one in six voters. The poll puts Labour neck and neck with the Tories on 41 per cent. Deltapoll director Joe Twyman said: 'The fact Boris tops the list with support from fewer than one in six Brits  and only one in five Tory voters  shows the trouble the Conservatives are in.' Advertisement

He told the BBC's Andrew Marr Show: 'I have to say I don't recognise any bit of that at all and as Home Secretary ... I am deeply involved in 'no deal preparations' as much as I am in getting a deal - I'm confident we will get a deal.

'From the work that I have seen and the analysis that has been done, those outcomes ... I don't think any of them would come to pass.'

He added that the Government was making progress with Brexit plans, saying: 'I'm confident that as we get to the June council meeting the Prime Minister will have a good set of proposals and our colleagues in Europe will respond positively.'

Brexiteers attacked the assessment, with Tory former leader Iain Duncan Smith branding it the new Project Fear.

Fellow Conserative MP Conor Burns said: 'Do the authors of these reports realise how supine and pathetic they make our country look to the rest of the world?

'The group think of the last 45 years makes too many incapable of seeing that the EU is not the cause of all good.'

The row erupted with Mrs May facing mounting disquiet about her handling of the Brexit negotiations.

Former Cabinet minister Priti Patel said the Government needed to articulate a 'better vision for the future' after Brexit.

Mrs Patel, who quit as International Development Secretary in November over unauthorised meetings in Israel, told The House magazine the Conservatives had become 'lazy' and she heard 'too much relentless talking down' of Britain's economy.

Asked if having two Remain voters at the top was part of the problem, she said: 'I have to say, originally I thought it wasn't.

'But I think it's fair to say that there's something in that. There is absolutely something in that.

'I actually resent the negativity.'

Hedge fund boss and Tory donor Crispin Odey went further and called for Mrs May to be replaced by Environment Secretary Michael Gove to see the country through the negotiations.

Mr Odey told the Observer the Prime Minister could not make decisions and would not see Brexit through.Hedge fund boss Crispin Odey said the PM could not make decisions and would not see Brexit through

Theresa May faces fresh Tory infighting today after a party donor demanded she quit because she is failing to 'carry Brexit through'.

Hedge fund boss Crispin Odey said Mrs May should be replaced by Michael Gove to see the country through negotiations with the EU.

Meanwhile, former Cabinet minister Priti Patel accused the PM of 'negativity' as she raised doubts about her approach.

The pressure on Mrs May escalated as talks with Brussels reach a critical stage - with a standoff over the Irish border threatening to throw the process into turmoil.

Mr Odey told the Observer the Prime Minister could not make decisions and would not see Brexit through.

He said Mr Gove - one of the architects of the Leave campaign - should take over at the head of a much bolder administration that was prepared to break EU rules before Brexit.

Mr Odey, who previously donated to Ukip before switching allegiance, said: 'Michael has got lots of attributes that make him a non-traditional Tory.

'He is very aware that he has to appeal not just to the wealthy, but also more broadly.

'I don't think May can carry Brexit through any more.'

Mrs Patel told The House magazine that the Conservatives had become 'lazy' and she heard 'too much relentless talking down' of Britain's economy.

Asked if having Remain supporters Mrs May and Chancellor Philip Hammond at the top of government was part of the problem, she said: 'I have to say, originally I thought it wasn't. But I think it's fair to say that there's something in that. There is absolutely something in that.

'I actually resent the negativity.'

Talking about the wider Government, she added: 'We are basically now at that two-year anniversary mark.

Theresa May (pictued with Jean-Claude Juncker as they struck a divorce deal in December) is facing mounting disquiet about her handling of the Brexit negotiations

'Being bogged down in the minutiae is one thing. But moaning about Brexit in government and saying that it's too difficult and talking down our country I think is actually quite shameful.'

However, she said that the party leadership should remain in place, adding: 'They've got to deliver for the country. It's non-negotiable.'

Yesterday International Trade Secretary Liam Fox admitted Cabinet ministers analysing one of the potential solutions to the Irish border problem had met just once in the month since they were given the task.

Nearly one in six voters think May should quit after Brexit Nearly six in 10 voters think Theresa May should quit after Brexit talks are completed, according to a poll. Research by Deltapoll found 56 per cent wanted her to stand down next March - although 59 per cent of Tory voters believe she should stay on. Some 57 per cent fear the UK's negotiating team are making a hash of the exit talks. However, the survey conducted for the Sun on Sunday suggests the public has no clear successor in mind. Boris Johnson is the most popular replacement, but only has backing from one in six voters. The poll puts Labour neck and neck with the Tories on 41 per cent. Deltapoll director Joe Twyman said: 'The fact Boris tops the list with support from fewer than one in six Brits  and only one in five Tory voters  shows the trouble the Conservatives are in.' Advertisement

The working group analysing the 'customs partnership' proposal that would see Britain continue to collect tariffs on behalf of the EU was waiting for a report to be finished and will meet for a second time next week, he told the BBC.

A second group is considering Leave-backers' favoured technology-based 'maximum facilitation' - or 'max fac' - solution.

Brussels has already rejected both schemes, with chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier saying on Friday that neither was 'operational or acceptable'.

The Government has been told by EU leaders and Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar that they want to see progress over the impasse on the Irish border by the time the European Council meets at the end of June.

Tanaiste Simon Coveney upped the ante yesterday telling the Irish Times the UK must produce 'written proposals' for the border within the next two weeks.

Meanwhile, civil servants have reportedly been drawing up scenarios for a 'Doomsday Brexit' that would leave the country short of medicine, fuel and food.

The Sunday Times said this included models for mild, severe and 'Armageddon' reactions to no-deal exits.

It quoted a source as saying that even the severe scenario saw the Port of Dover 'collapse on day one'.Advertisement

Britain's southern beaches will be packed today as temperatures on Sunday reach a sweltering 78F (26C) as experts say summer has officially arrived.

Bright blue skies are expected to last all day in the south, while the rain will continue to fall in parts of Northern England and southern Scotland.

Rain in the north will give way to scattered showers and localised flooding with thundery weather heading into Monday. Some of those storm clouds could return to the south by Thursday with a cloudy start to the week forecast.

However, temperatures are expected to rise by the second week in June, starting off what is expected to be a scorching summer month.

Thousands of visitors took to the beach in Brighton and Hove as hot and sunny weather his hitting the seaside resort

Men run along the sea front on Sunday morning as the sun beamed down over Brighton. Temperatures are expected to reach 90F in June

The beach in Brighton was packed on Sunday as sun seekers headed for the seaside. Temperatures were expected to hit 70F

Dozens flocked to Cote Brasserie for breakfast where they enjoyed eating outside in the sunshine in Birmingham

Dog owners got out early this morning before the sun becomes too hot for pets. One woman walked her dog on the beach so it could cool off in the sea

There was sunshine in Portsmouth on Saturday for the HM the Queens 65th Coronation Anniversary. Pictured: HMS Warrior

Sun seekers took to the pebbles in Worthing this morning to make the most of the rays as forecasters say summer is coming

HMS Warrior at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, with HMS Queen Elizabeth in the background, including a 21 Gun salute commemorating HM the Queens 65th Coronation Anniversary on Saturday

Southern Scotland and northern England is expected to see heavier rainfall than the rest of the country on Sunday and the beginning of the week but summer is set to bake the nation in June

Worthing beach was busy with families early on Sunday morning as Britain basked in the sunshine which will stay for June

Morning visitors took in the warm sunshine along Birmingham's Central Canal in the city centre as the sun shone on Sunday

Crowds flocked to Weymouth beach as the coastal fog cleared and the temperature shot up. There are still flood warnings in the north

Bookmaker Coral has slashed the odds again on the hottest June on record, this time to 6-4 from 2-1, as the sun continues to beat down.

Leon Brown, head of meteorological operations at The Weather Channel, said temperatures could push 90F.

He added: 'The hottest weather is forecast in the first half of summer, with a warmer-than-average June and 32C highs expected.

'But the pattern of warmth from the continental changes in July, meaning a risk of rain for Wimbledon, with more unsettled Atlantic fronts forecast.

'August's school holidays look like seeing above-average rainfall, and below-normal temperatures at times.'

Hotspells in the second week of June will signal the start of summer, according to forecasters, who have also warned it could be slow to begin, this week.

James Madden, forecaster for Exacta Weather, said: We expect it to turn increasingly warmer through the first week of the month with many parts of the country basking in temperatures in the mid 20Cs.

'It could be rather muggy and humid with some variable cloud cover, but when the sun does come out it will feel extremely hot as summer gets underway.'

An umpire holds a pint of beer as he waits for play to restart during a match between the Ship Inn Cricket team and Obolensky's Heroes CC played on Elie Beach in Scotland

Beaches were overcast in Scotland on Sunday but that did not stop fun and games who took to the sand to watch the cricket

Members of the Ship Inn Cricket team prepare the pitch during a match against Obolensky's Heroes CC played on Elie Beach

The clouds covered any chance of sunshine on Elie Beach in Scotland but the cricket team carried on regardless. The Ship Inn claims to be the only pub in Britain to have a cricket team with a pitch on the beach

The warmer weather follows storms across the country just days ago.

The Met Office revealed this weekend that May was the UK's hottest ever after it released its provisional data for the month.

Three day forecast: The week will begin cloudy for much of the country with stormy weather expected but blue skies will return at the end of the week

The average daytime maximum temperature was 17C (62.6F), just beating the previous all-time high of 16.9C (62.4F) set in May 1992.

But now it has issued a number of yellow weather warnings for England and Scotland as gloomy weather approaches.

Forecaster Gregg Dewhurst told MailOnline: 'Today we have got the risk of thunderstorms developing across northern England, Scotland and eastern England as well.

'We can expect heavy downpours that could lead to localised flooding.'

Sun seekers ventured into the sea in West Bay in Dorset over the weekend as Britons started to embrace the summer weather

The weather in June could hit record breaking figures as the odds are slashed on the hottest day. Britons took to the beach in Weymouth yesterday

Despite the cool and dull weather on the North East coast, people could still be found having fun on Saltburn beach, in North Yorkshire

Forecasters have rolled out yellow weather warnings for Central, Tayside & Fife, East Midlands, East of England, Grampian, Highlands & Eilean Siar, North East England, North West England, Northern Ireland, south west Scotland, Lothian Borders, Strathclyde, West Midland and Yorkshire & Humber.

Gregg said showers will be 'hit and miss and not everyone will see them' but that the risk of thunder, lightning and rain will continue into tomorrow and on Monday.

The odds on the hottest day in June ever have now plummeted as a heatwave looks likely.

'We're expecting a prolonged few days of warm weather now and everything is pointing towards one of, if not the hottest June's we've ever seen,' said Coral's Harry Aitkenhead.

The firm have also cut the odds on the hottest June day of all time, which is currently 35.6C recorded back in 1976. It is 5-2 that we see that record tumble this month.

'It remains a long way away but with the long range forecasts we simply can't rule out the hottest June day the UK has ever seen,' added Aitkenhead.A fraud victim who was conned out of 6,000 by an uncle and cousin of Hither Green burglar Henry Vincent has had acid thrown in his face, it is claimed.

Robert Etheridge, 60, was conned by David Vincent Snr, 50, and his 26-year-old son, also called David, who convinced him he needed urgent work on his roof.

Mr Etheridge told his insurance company who alerted police, who then arrested the pair before they were jailed at Maidstone Crown Court in April.

But a few weeks later he allegedly had acid thrown in his face when he answered the door and needed skin grafts, the Sunday People reports.

David Vincent Snr (left) and his son, also called David (right), the uncle and cousin of the burglar killed by a homeowner in Hither Green, were jailed over a roofing scam

It is reported that the victim needed skin grafts and has been left with scars on his neck, and only avoided blindness because of the glasses he was wearing.

Kent Police confirmed that they were investigating an assault at a property in Dartford where a 'noxious substance' was reported. Three people have been arrested.

The conmen showed Mr Etheridge pictures of dead rats and falsely told him the loft of his house in Dartford, Kent, was infested with rodents, bird nests and maggots.

All three wore jackets emblazoned with a company logo 'Ideal Home Improvement' and used a van bearing the same name as well as Vincent Snr's mobile phone number.

Henry Vincent (right), 37, died after a botched burglary at the home of Richard Osborn-Brooks (left), 78, in Hither Green on April 4

A genuine builder who later inspected their 'work' concluded it was 'valueless, non-urgent and bodged', the court was told. There were also no infestations.

The father and son, from St Mary Cray, near Orpington in Kent, together with another 36-year-old man from Eltham, south-east London, admitted fraud.

Vincent Snr was jailed for 21 months while father-of-three Vincent Jnr was sentenced to 18 months behind bars.

Henry Vincent, 37, died after breaking into the home of Richard Osborn-Brooks, 78, in Hither Green on April 4.Nine out of 10 crimes went unsolved in 2016 and 2017, a drop of 25 percent from the previous year.

But the picture differs significantly across the country. In Rushcliffe, Nottinghamshire, less than six percent of crime were solved according to police data, whereas in Uttlesford, Essex, 32.1 percent were solved.

In the Manchester Borough of Trafford none of the 225 crimes reported in the period were solved, according to police data analysed by goodmove.co.uk.

Nine out of 10 crimes went unsolved in 2016 and 2017, a drop of 25 percent from the previous year

In Manchester just 4,940 of the 82,740 crimes (5.97 percent) were solved.

Rushcliffe in Nottinghamshire has the most unsolved crime in the country, just 5.46 percent.

In second, third and fourth place are Daventry, Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire respectively with Manchester taking fifth.

Uttlesford in Essex was the only place to solve more than 30 percent of it's crime.

Second was Scarborough with 26.69 percent, followed by Boston, Bath and North East Somerset and Mendip.

As well as postcode lottery, the likelihood of a crime being solved largely depended on the nature of it.

On average, 82.6 percent of crimes related to drug possession and abuse were solved where only 1.5 percent of thefts were solved, 30 percent less than the previous year.

Only two percent of 77, 515 bicycle thefts were solved

Only 1.5 percent of thefts were solved, 30 percent less than the previous year

Possession of weapons was the second most solved crime, with just under 40 percent being solved.

Of more than 50,000 robberies only 5.7 percent were solved. While more than a million violent and sexual crimes were reported less than 12 percent of violent and sexual crimes were solved.

In total, only 11.6 percent of crimes were solved between 2016 and 2017.

Police are set to lose out more with forces predicted to recieve 700million less a year in the following years

Nearly half a million (492,185), reports of criminal damage and arson were made but only eight percent were solved.

Only two percent of 77, 515 bicycle thefts were solved whereas just under 30 percent of shoplifters were caught. Similarly only 2.08 percent of vehicle crime was solved.

The fall in solved crimes follows mass reduction in police budget under Theresa May's tenure as Home Secretary.

After the coalition government was elected in 2010, May agreed to reduce police budgets by 18 percent and over the next five years the number of police on the street fell by more than 20,000 from 144,353 to 122,859.

Only 2.08 percent of vehicle crime was solved

For criminal damage and arson, eight percent of crimes were solved

Police are set to lose out more with forces predicted to recieve 700million less a year in the following years.

Chief Constable Bill Skelly, the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for Crime Statistics, said: 'Recent re-inspections have shown forces are improving the way they record information. Very often, this is for crimes that have no suspect and no prospect of a criminal justice outcome.

'This data should therefore be interpreted cautiously, as it is by no means the case that a rise in recorded crime and a drop in associated detections is a causal effect of reduced resources' the Sunday Mirror reported.

The Home Office said the Government recognises 'the impact crimes can have' and that police funding will rise by up to 460million this year.Richard Holden, Conservative Party aide, who was acquitted of a rape charge, with his girlfriend Charlotte Ivers

A former special adviser to ex-Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon found himself embroiled in an apparent attempt to blacken his name in court with details he had handed over in good faith.

Richard Holden was accused of groping the woman under her skirt at the event in London in 2016. The 33-year-old was employed as one of Sir Michaels media advisers until early last year.

He was found not guilty of one count of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court just over a week ago.

But is has now emerged that the prosecution obtained a 28-page document, of Holden's personal disclosures which he had given while undergoing 'developed vetting' for his high-level security job, to undermine his character in court.

Under the rules for a top secret security job of this kind, the UK Security Vetting agency (UKSV) put candidates through a DV process, where they are required to list their long-term sexual partners, drinking habits and details of drug use and tastes in pornography.

The only time the information can be given to police is if it reveals an undisclosed criminal offence, a threat to someone's safety or a risk to national security.

On the morning of his trial the prosecution revealed it had the material.

Mr Holden told The Sunday Times: 'I was absolutely gobsmacked. They always tell you something unexpected will come up in court but the last thing I expected was that. It is outrageous that they should try to use this. The entire purpose of the DV form is that you give them everything so you cannot be blackmailed by a foreign state.'

Holden's solicitor, Mark Troman, said: 'We were completely shocked. I suspect that it is not lawful. We both felt there was nothing there that could lead to a bad character application by the crown. The contents were personal but they only showed that he is a normal bloke.'

The material was not used in court. A spokesman for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said: 'After receiving confirmation in a formal witness statement that the material could be disclosed, the prosecution indicated to the defence it might seek to use it in rebuttal. This material was not used in court and the CPS did not apply to use it.'

Last week, the Mail On Sunday revealed that Home Secretary Sajid Javid told a court that a Tory official told him that Mr Holden 'grabbed her backside bare flesh hard'  and that 'no one' saw it.

But in an extraordinary twist, the alleged victim's legal team urged the jury 'not to rely on'  in effect, ignore  Mr Javid's statement because it clashed with the account she gave to the court.

Last month, the jury at London's Southwark Crown Court took just half an hour to acquit Mr Holden, 33, of sexual assault at a Christmas Party in 2016 at a house he rented with two friends.

Judge Deborah Taylor said he could leave 'without a stain on his character'.

Richard Holden arriving at Westminster Magistrates Court on December 6, last year

He was actually charged with sexual assault by touching her clothes, not her skin, as Mr Javid said the woman had told him.

And the alleged victim also appeared to gainsay Mr Javid's evidence that she had told him no one had heard the incident: she told the court someone 'screamed 'get off or f*** off!' ' and pulled Mr Holden off her physically.

Astonishingly, Mr Holden's legal team accepted Mr Javid's lurid evidence as they believed it backed up Mr Holden's claim that the alleged victim had changed her story and lacked credibility.

In an extraordinary exchange, the judge said the prosecution could not 'impugn their own witness [Mr Javid] if you have not called him'.

The prosecution lawyer said: 'We aren't saying he's lying, but he is not necessarily reliable [on that point].' She said her 'first duty was to the Crown [the complainant]'  not to the Home Secretary.

Theresa May was also dragged into the case when one of her aides was interviewed by police in her Commons study and gave evidence which Mr Holden says helped to prove his innocence.

David Beckingham said he could see Mr Holden's arms during the time of the alleged attack  Mr Holden said this meant it was 'physically impossible' for him to have groped the woman in the way she claimed.

It is the latest in a series of sex assault cases to collapse and is likely to reopen the row over the police's alleged failure to release vital evidence to defendants.

Mr Holden told The Mail on Sunday that the past 18 months had been a 'living nightmare' and the police investigation was a 'disgrace'.

It had ruined his Tory career and nearly destroyed his relationship with his girlfriend. It has also cost him 150,000 in legal fees and lost earnings.

The disclosure of Mr Javid's intervention in the case comes only weeks after he became Home Secretary.

The woman complained to Mr Javid two months after the alleged attack and he told her to go to the police.

In his statement read out in court, Mr Javid said: 'Michael Fallon's special adviser, Richard Holden, came over and said he wanted to say goodbye.

'As he was hugging her, he suddenly put his hands down her clothes  I'm not sure if top or skirt  put his hands on her backside and grabbed her bare flesh hard.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid (pictured) told a court that a Tory official told him that Richard Holden, former aide to ex-Defence Secretary Michael Fallon 'grabbed her backside bare flesh hard'  and that 'no one' saw it

She said no one else would have seen what happened because she was near the wall and he did it so quick.'

Mr Holden's legal team said they accepted Mr Javid's statement as a factual account of what the woman had told him  but claimed that she had contradicted it in court, undermining her credibility.

Mr Holden directed his anger at police, claiming they withheld evidence from two witnesses who backed his claim that he was not drunk. He also said:

He was forced to obtain a court order to get his own phone records  which showed the two witnesses were telling the truth  and police then 'magically' found transcripts of interviews with them.

HOME SECRETARY SAVID JAVID'S 'EVIDENCE' 'She said that when leaving with a friend, she was putting on her coat, Michael Fallon's special adviser, Richard Holden, came over and said he wanted to say goodbye. 'She said he tried to give her a hug goodbye, which she thought was quite unusual. 'As he was hugging her, he suddenly put his hands down her clothes  I'm not sure if top or skirt  put his hands on her backside and grabbed her bare flesh hard. 'She said no one else would have seen what happened because she was near the wall and he did it so quick.' Advertisement

Police did not take into account evidence from 20 party guests who said they had not seen or heard anything, despite the woman's claim that Mr Holden was physically pulled off her as someone screamed 'get off or f*** off!'

Mr Holden tracked down all 20  who then backed his version of events.

Police flew a witness from San Francisco to give evidence of Mr Holden being 'drunk', but in the witness box she said he was only 'tipsy'.

Officers said it was 'not worth' tracking down the alleged victim's old mobile phone which she had used to exchange WhatsApp messages with Mr Holden, who produced the 'mildly flirtatious' messages in court.

Twenty-seven minutes after the alleged 11pm assault, the woman messaged three people  including Mr Beckingham  with a 'crying with laughter' emoji saying she had 'had so much fun'.

Lancashire-born Mr Holden was forced to quit his senior Government role over the allegations.

He was charged last November  at the height of the so-called 'Pestminster' scandal when several MPs were accused of harassing staff  and a week after his boss, Mr Fallon, was forced to resign for touching a female journalist's knee.

'It was heartbreaking,' Mr Holden said. 'I had joined the Tory Party as a teenager, worked at Party HQ for seven years.

It was my whole life and it had gone. It was as though they were not going to prosecute, and then someone thought, 'We'd better prosecute that bloke we investigated ages ago who worked for Fallon.' '

But in an extraordinary twist, the alleged victim's legal team urged the jury 'not to rely on' Mr Javid's evidence against the former Fallon (pictured) aide

He added: 'We found out belatedly that police contacted everyone at the party who all said they saw and heard nothing. But the police chose to ignore it.

'I had to track them all down and they confirmed none had seen any sexual assault, let alone hear someone scream, 'Get off or f*** off!' '

Mr Holden claims police also failed to disclose evidence from two witnesses who told them he had received an important phone call relating to his MoD job minutes before the alleged attack at 11pm.

'The police denied having interviewed the two. When we proved they had, they magically produced the transcripts.'

The authorities also arranged for a witness who had described Mr Holden as being 'drunk' to be flown from San Francisco, where she now lives, to London to give evidence.

She told the court Mr Holden was 'tipsy', rather than drunk.

Mr Holden said his girlfriend Charlotte had forgiven him for 'mildly flirtatious' messages with his alleged victim before the party.

He says the authorities must review such cases. 'Of course, victims of sexual assaults must be protected.

But this investigation was appalling. At my first court appearance, the case in front of mine was two men accused of trying to assassinate Theresa May. That sums it up.'

Mr Javid did not respond to a request for comment.School dinner ladies and support staff have suffered sexual abuse from children as young as nine, it has been claimed.

Children have reportedly stripped off at school, exposed themselves and even groped female staff members' breasts.

One woman said she had been called a 'pervert' when she told young pupils to put their clothes back on and said it was treated as 'part of the job'.

One in ten school support staff said they have experienced 'sexually inappropriate behaviour' from pupils, in a study from the GMB union, the Sunday People reported.

School dinner ladies and support staff have suffered sexual abuse from children as young as nine, it has been claimed

Pupils have also allegedly masturbated in the classroom, smacked women on the bottom and referred to staff as 'beautiful' and 'babe'.

A support worker said: 'I've had boys telling me to perform sex acts on them.

'There is no counselling for any of this. It's just seen as part of the job  something you have to put up with.'

She said she had told a pupil she was going to her father's birthday party and was asked if she would perform a sex act as a present.

The GMB's Karen Leonard said the accounts of sexual abuse made 'very tough reading' and left women stressed and 'even left with mental scars'.

Earlier this year a teacher's union said there was a 'gross misunderstanding' of school support workers  such as teaching assistants, caretakers, bursars and admin staff.



Delegates at the NEU's (ATL section) annual conference warned: 'There is still the perception that support staff are a "mums' army" who do little more than wash paint pots and create displays. The reality is much different.'

A poll of around 1,700 teaching assistants, cover supervisors, administrators and lab technicians found that nearly eight in 10 say they regularly do overtime each week.Adventure-hungry Fiona Quinn has become the first woman to stand-up paddle board (SUP) across the Irish Sea as part of her record-breaking triathlon attempt.

The 31-year-old accomplished the journey on Thursday after setting off near St David's in Wales before reaching the Irish coast 15 hours later.

Her latest feat is part of a world-record attempt to walk, cycle and SUP the length of Britain in a one-off triathlon which she hopes to complete before August.

Fiona Quinn has become the first-ever woman to traverse the Irish coast by stand-up paddle board (SUP)

The adventure-hungry woman departed from Land's End six weeks ago as part of her record-breaking attempt to reach John O'Groats by SUP

Her latest feat is part of a triathlon to walk, cycle and SUP the length of Britain

Quinn is currently travelling up the coast of Ireland as part of her attempt to SUP from Land's End in Cornwall to John O'Groats in Scotland.

The trip is expected to measure more than 800 miles on a route that includes paddling through the Caledonian Canal.

She has given herself six months to complete the expedition which began late April but hopes to finish it 'within one or two months'.

In an interview with BBC Breakfast yesterday, Quinn said she wants to inspire more women to challenge themselves with explorations of their own.

'I do like to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone. But I do want more women to get out there and adventure a bit more,' she told viewers.

'A lot people you see on TV adventuring are men.

'There's lots of women out there doing cool stuff so hopefully someone will be inspired and take on their own journey on the back of this.'

Quinn set off from Land's End in late April. She reached St David's at the southwest tip of Wales last week before paddle boarding over to Rossdale and up to Arklow

Quinn, who confesses she has a fear of deep open water, reached the Irish coast on May 31 after setting off four miles from the coast of St David's in southwest Wales at 6.30am before landing near Rosslare at 9pm.

She uploaded a photo one day after arriving at Arklow in Ireland to celebrate her joy having become the first woman to cross the Irish Sea by SUP.

'The sea was so kind to me - no peakiness! Glassy flat and even dolphins came to say hello and give me a motivational push just 15 or so miles from the end.'

She is believed to have tried the sport at sea just three times beforehand.

'I've done paddle boarding before but mainly on lakes and rivers - not on the sea.

'The weather has been a huge challenge  it's so weather dependent  on lakes and rivers you can get away with most weather conditions.

'But if the swells too big or wind too strong out on the sea you just have to wait.

'There's been lots of waiting around which has been frustrating.'

Quinn has already completed the top-to-bottom course of the UK twice in 2017 when she walked and cycled from and to the same locations.

In spring last year walked 993 miles over 57 days, according to her website. That was followed with a long-haul cycle of 1,200 miles in September.

Completing a third quest by SUP would round off a one-off triathlon she set out for herself.

'I like defying my own expectations and those that others have of me, and so coming up with crazy ideas and making them happen is loads of fun.

'Ive never done something totally unique before so the idea of trying to see if I could make it happen was really exciting.'

She is paddling with a support boat and team for a challenge she describes as both physical and mental. Her previous two efforts on bicycle and foot were completed solo.

The expedition sees Quinn chase three world records that include becoming the first person to SUP from Lands End to John O'Groats, the first woman to SUP across the Irish Sea and the first woman to complete a length of Britain triathlon.

'Im about a third of the way in,' she told MailOnline from the water.

'But the weather should be much better from here on in and so I should make much quicker progress. Its nice to know the hardest part is behind me, which means I can relax a little and enjoy it more.'

Quinn was particularly taken by the efforts of fellow adventurer Sean Conway who completed a 'length-of-Britain' triathlon in 2015.

Conway, who didn't do any activity by SUP, rode on bicycle, swam and ran three times between Land's End and John O'Groats over a period of seven years.

'(Conway showed) that adventure doesnt have to be in far flung places  Britain and Ireland offer and incredible adventure playground.'

Quinn worked as a researcher in sustainable real estate at Kingston University for four years before starting her own business in 2010.

Wanting more than an office job she went on to explore and find her true calling in adventure.

About her current trip up and through the length of Britain by sea, she writes:

'Adventure is waiting for us right here on our doorstep and as we travel Britain's coastline. We'll be able to explore little known spots only accessible by water and experience our rugged and beautiful beaches from a new perspective.'

Another purpose of the expedition is 'championing women in adventure.'

'All the while pushing myself like I never have before.'

The Land's End to John O'Groats, abbreviated 'LEJOG' for short, is a popular route among thrill-seekers as it represents the greatest distance between two points in mainland Britain.

It made headlines when car fanatic Tommy Davies boasted of driving the journey in just nine hours 36 minutes, much to the chagrin of road safety campaigners.Customers have shared their outrage at two boxes of eggs for sale at a Coles supermarket.

Two boxes of Sunny Queen Farms free range eggs were spotted at the Neutral Bay store in Sydney - a box containing 12 eggs and another 'value' pack with 18.

However under closer inspection a customer discovered the 'value' tag was a misnomer as they are actually more expensive than the regular pack.

The 12 pack of eggs works out to cost 98 cents per 100 grams, while the 'value' 18 pack costs one cent more at 99 cents per 100 grams.

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Customers have shared their outrage at two boxes of eggs for sale at a Coles supermarket

Two boxes of Sunny Queen Farms free range eggs were spotted at the Neutral Bay store in Sydney - a box containing 12 eggs and another 'value' pack with 18

A savvy customer posted a photo of the packs of eggs for sale side-by-side at the supermarket to Reddit.

'It's only one cent but come on. 'Value pack' come off of it,' they posted alongside the image.

The 12 pack, 600g of eggs was being sold for $5.90, while the 18 pack was being sold for $8.90.

Reddit users lashed out at the supermarket for the supposed 'value' pack actually costing more per 100g than the regular pack.

'You should report this to the [Australian Competition and Consumer Commission], could be false advertising,' one person said.

'Mate, I've already called 000,' came the response.

However under closer inspection a customer discovered the 'value' tag was a misnomer as they are actually more expensive than the regular pack

A savvy customer posted a photo of the packs of eggs for sale side-by-side at the supermarket to Reddit

Another suggested raising the matter with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, while referencing The Simpsons episode 'Bart vs. Australia.

'That's a bloody outrage, it is! I want to take this all the way to the Prime Minister.'

Another Reddit user suggested dishing out some 'vigilante justice' by 'egging the bastards'.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Coles and Sunny Queen Farms for comment.Sajid Javid slammed the 'unrepresentative' Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) today as he dismissed claims of widespread Islamophobia in the Conservative Party.

The stinging rebuke came after the MCB demanded an inquiry into 'racists and bigots' in the party, highlighting a series of alleged incidents involving activists.

Former Tory chair Baroness Warsi also backed an investigation last week, complaining that the party tended to 'shrug its shoulders' over such claims.

But asked about the issue on the BBC's Andrew Marr show today, Mr Javid pointed out that he had been made Home Secretary in a Tory government - and questioned whether the MCB was a legitimate voice for the muslim community.

Sajid Javid slammed the 'unrepresentative' Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) today as he dismissed claims of widespread Islamophobia in the Conservative Party

Mr Javid - who is from a muslim background but non-practising - said the government and the previous Labour administration had a policy of not 'dealing with' the MCB

'I have got a lot of time for Baroness Warsi, but I am afraid I don't agree with her,' he said.

'As you just described me, I am Sajid Javid, I am the Home Secretary in this country...

'The MCB does not represent muslims in this country. You find me a group of muslims that are represented by the MCB.'

Mr Javid - who is from a muslim background but non-practising - said there were issues of 'anti-muslim hatred' as well as anti-Semitism in the UK.

But he said the government and the previous Labour administration had a policy of not 'dealing with' the MCB.

He suggested members of the council had made 'favourable' remarks about extremists in the past.

In a letter to Tory chairman Brandon Lewis last week, the MCB highlighted allegations Harrow MP Bob Blackman was a member of Facebook groups containing Islamophobia and said the party was suspending members weekly.

The letter also accuses the Harrow MP of hosting Hindu nationalist Tapan Ghosh, who has been accused Islamophobia, in Parliament, and of retweeting far-right activist Tommy Robinson.

Mr Blackman has denied all allegations of Islamophobia levelled against him, including that he chose to join any Facebook groups containing Islamophobia.

Muslim Council of Britain general secretary Harun Khan wrote to party chairman Brandon Lewis demanding an investigation into Isamophobic incidents

MCB general secretary Harun Khan said they were 'more than weekly occurrences of Islamophobia' in April.

They ranged from allegedly offensive tweets to accusations of links to far-right figures.

Recent cases included the Wokingham town mayor Peter Lucey who stood down last month after it was revealed he had 'liked' social media pages linked to Tommy Robinson and right-wing Dutch politician Geert Wilders.

Lady Warsi - who was party chair between 2010 and 2012 - told Sky News last week that Islamaphobia 'was an issue for us long before the issue of anti-Semitism within the Labour Party became public'.

She said: 'I've raised this issue with successive chairman, I've raised the matter informally, I've raised it formally, I've had meetings about it, I've even written to the prime minister.

'I wrote to her last year about this issue, and each time it seems that we've kind of said 'yes, we take these issues very seriously' and then shrugged our shoulders and moved on.

'What's really concerning for me is that the frequency of these incidents seems to be now increasing, whether that's because there's now more public awareness about reporting these issues.

'I hope, sincerely, the party now will deal with it.'

A Conservative Party spokesman said last week: 'We take all such incidents seriously, which is why we have suspended all those who have behaved inappropriately and launched immediate investigations.'Sajid Javid signalled a U-turn today on tough immigration restrictions for NHS workers as he risked a rift with Theresa May.

The Home Secretary said he 'saw the problem' with the cap on non-EU staff coming to fill posts in the health service.

Mr Javid also offered only lukewarm backing for Mrs May's target of bringing net immigration below 100,000 a year - and suggested that students could be taken out of the figures.

The comments came amid mounting calls for the PM to agree a relaxation of the Tier 2 visa limits - which restrict the number of skilled workers allowed in to the UK to 20,700 a year.

Appearing on the BBC's Andrew Marr show today, Home Secretary Sajid Javid said he 'saw the problem' with the cap on non-EU staff coming to fill posts in the health service

There have been calls for NHS professionals to be exempt from the tier-two process in order to address staffing problems

A group of Tory backbenchers wrote to Mrs May last week warning the rules were fuelling staff shortages in the NHS.

Asked about the issue on the BBC's Andrew Marr show today, Mr Javid said: 'I can see the problem with that.

'It is something I am taking a fresh look at.'

Pressed repeatedly on whether he personally believed in the 'tens of thousands' target for net annual immigration, Mr Javid merely said it was in the Tory manifesto.

'I'm committed to our manifesto but what that means is that over the next few years I'll be working towards reducing net migration and bringing it to lower sustainable levels,' he said.

Mrs May has faced repeated calls to exclude foreign students from the push to cut net migration. Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson is among those to have urged the change.

In another apparently split from the premier, Mr Javid said he "empathised" with the calls and it was 'something I would like to look at again'.

The letter organised by South Cambridgeshire MP Heidi Allen to the PM last week warned that the health service could be facing a 'perfect storm'.

For a British employer to hire a skilled worker from outsider the EU on a tier two visa, they have to explain why the position could not be filled by a British citizen.

The letter, said to have been signed by dozens of Conservatives, said: 'Our current tier-two policy is forcing the country to make a binary choice between professionals needed to grow the economy and professionals needed to staff our health system.

'Without urgent intervention, we believe our NHS is heading towards a perfect storm.'

The names of the other signatories have not been released as the letter was intended to be private.

However, it was understood to have been copied to Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Home Secretary Sajid Javid.

According to the letter, 1,518 doctors between December 2017 and March 2018 were denied the certificate of sponsorship that is needed for a Tier 2 visa.

Ms Allen wants NHS professionals to be exempt from the tier-two process in order to address the problem.

It reads: 'We are confident this would enjoy full public support.'

Tory backbenchers have urged Theresa May (pictured at church with husband Philip today) to relaxed visa rules in order to tackle staffing shortagesSupermarkets are giving short 'best before' and 'use by' dates on their own brand products that differ drastically from food health and safety recommendations.

Some items have use-by dates that are five months shorter than near-identical products.

This leaves consumers confused and often leads to them throwing out perfectly good products, encouraging food waste.

Supermarkets are giving short 'best before' and 'use by' dates on their own brand products that differ drastically from food health and safety recommendations

Experts are now calling for manufacturers to come up with a standard labelling system for all products.

Sainsbury's tell customers that their own brand mango chutney will only last four weeks, whereas a near identical product Patak's mango chutney will last for six months after opening, a Sunday Mirror investigation revealed.

Similarly the supermarket's own brand salad cream must be used within four weeks of opening, whereas the Asda version allows for eight weeks.

Sainsbury's and Tesco ask customers to consume their mature cheddar within seven days whereas Morrisons say just five.

Hellman's mayonnaise gives a shelf life of three months but Asda's own version only allows four weeks.

Supermarkets are inconsistent across the board with Morrisons advising customers to use its own brand red pesto within a week but Sainsbury's offering twice that.

Sainsbury's tell customers that their own brand mango chutney will only last four weeks, whereas a near identical product Patak's mango chutney will last for six months after opening

Hellman's mayonnaise gives a shelf life of three months but Asda's own version only allows four weeks

Hellman's mayonnaise gives a shelf life of three months but Asda's own version only allows four weeks.

Morrisons also advises customers to freeze their beef on the day of purchase whereas Sainsbury's advises any time within the use by date.

Asda, Sainsbury's and Morrisons all differ on their advice for keeping unsalted butter.

Asda say the butter is suitable for freezing, however Sainsbury's and Morrisons do not - and Morrisons advises consuming an open block of butter within a week.

Sainsbury's own brand salad cream must be used within four weeks of opening, whereas the Asda version allows for eight weeks

Sainsbury's advise customers to finish of a bottle of orange juice within two days of opening. Morrisons advises five.

The time allowed to consume tinned sweetcorn by Asda is double that of Sainsbury's - two days instead of one. Similarly Sainsbury's and Morrisons advocate just one day for an open can of tuna in spring water whereas Asda and Tesco say two days are safe.

Iceland say chicken can be frozen within 24 hours but Tesco insist it must be done immediately.

For bacon, Sainsbury's say their unsmoked rashers must be consumed within three days whereas Asda say just two.

Morrisons advises customers to use its own brand red pesto within a week but Sainsbury's offers twice that

Throwaway Britons are said to dump more than seven million tonnes of food every year. While some of this is inevitable, such as teabags, 4.4million tonnes is said to be 'avoidable waste' . That's enough to provide six meals a week for the average family  and save them 700 a year.

One reason for the food waste mountain is confusion over labels.

'Use by' is typically found on meat and fresh foods that spoil quickly. But 'best before' is usually just a mark of quality such as flavour and texture. Meanwhile, 'sell by' and 'display until' dates are aimed at encouraging storekeepers to shift stock.

Last year, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Food Standards Agency and waste advisory charity Wrap introduced new guidelines saying that 'use by' dates should only be put on foods that pose a health risk if kept for too long.

A consumer activist Helen Dewdney told the Sunday Mirror: 'Of course people will throw things away when past these dates, which increases food waste. One has to question why supermarkets are doing this? Is it to actually encourage people to buy more?'Protesters have marched across one of Australia's most iconic landmarks, calling for the Aboriginal flag to be flown there permanently.

Kamilaroi woman Cheree Toka started a campaign to raise the indigenous flag on the Sydney Harbour Bridge 365 days a year and her online petition has so far attracted 86,000 signatures.

Opposition Leader Luke Foley has vowed to make the change if Labor wins government but Premier Gladys Berejiklian insists she's happy with the status quo.

Kamilaroi woman Cheree Toka started a campaign to raise the indigenous flag on the Sydney Harbour Bridge 365 days a year

Opposition Leader Luke Foley has vowed to make the change if Labor wins government

Protesters have marched across one of Australia's most iconic landmarks, calling for the Aboriginal flag to be flown there permanently

'We want Gladys to recognise Aboriginal voices - she keeps dismissing the issue,' Ms Toka told AAP.

'We were here, we're still here and we want to be heard.'

The flag is currently raised 15 days a year - on Australia Day and during reconciliation and NAIDOC weeks.

Former Liberal premier Barry O'Farrell introduced that policy in 2013 and supports Labor's plan, but shock-jock Alan Jones argues Mr Foley has dug his own political grave with the pledge.

Ms Toka believes keeping the cultural symbol atop the 'Coathanger' would celebrate First Nations heritage and promote unity.

There was a small turnout at Saturday's event but the 27-year-old plans to ramp up pressure ahead of NAIDOC week in July when she will invite politicians to another march.

Ms Toka then hopes to present her petition to state parliament in the final sitting week in November.

The poster for the walk across the the Sydney Harbour BridgeMurray Deakin (pictured) allegedly stabbed his grandmother to death on Friday afternoon

A man who was allegedly hit in the head with a hammer by a crazed attacker, who was on the run from police after a double stabbing, has died of his injuries in hospital.

Murray Deakin allegedly attacked his grandmother Gail Winner, 69, and her husband Thomas, 71, inside their home in the town of Bega, in New South Wales, on Friday afternoon.

Roughly an hour after emergency services became aware of the alleged knife attack, Deakin is alleged to have flagged down a car and savagely attacked the 54-year-old driver.

It's alleged he hit the man in the head with a hammer, leaving him with the critical injuries that lead to his death in hospital on Sunday afternoon.

The 20-year-old faced Batemans Bay Local Court on Sunday, charged with one count of murder and two counts of wounding with intent to murder.

It is uncertain whether these charges will be upgraded to murder in the wake of the alleged second victim's death.

Police will allege Deakin stabbed Mr and Mrs Winner about 3.30pm on Friday, before leaving the scene and causing a frantic five-hour police manhunt.

Wearing just a hospital gown and shorts as he faced court on Sunday, Deakin said the words 'I'm sorry' as he was led from the courtroom by police, the ABC reports.

Deakin allegedly attacked his grandparents Gail, 69, and Thomas Winner, 71, inside their home (pictured) in the town of Bega, in south-east New South Wales, on Friday afternoon

Police dust for fingerprints at the Bega home where Deakin was reportedly living with his grandparents

It was not clear what Deakin was apologising for.

Deakin, who was reportedly staying with his grandparents, allegedly attacked both of his relatives multiple times with the knife.

Mr Winner, who was also suffering from stab wounds, made his way out onto East St and attempted to flag down a passing motorist.

When emergency services arrived at the home they reportedly found Mrs Winner in a critical condition.

She was rushed to South East Regional Hospital, but died later that afternoon.

Mr Winner was airlifted to Canberra Hospital and remains in a critical condition.

During the second alleged attack on the vehicle, a female passenger was able to escape unharmed.

Deakin was refused bail and is expected to reappear in Batemans Bay Local Court on Monday

Deakin then allegedly drove off in the car, before crashing 500 metres down the road and going into bushland.

Police called in helicopters, negotiators and special tactical operatives to capture him and arrested him at about 8.20pm.

Deakin did not apply for bail and it was formally refused. He is due to reappear in the same court on Monday via video link.Advertisement

A family of four are giving up life in Britain to travel the world as they swap business and schools to 'live out of two suitcases'.

Nomadic couple Dan Jackson, 30, and Poppy Jackson, 25 are planning to have their children Taromina, three, and Wolfie aged one 'world-schooled' as they head off on an epic adventure this summer.

Mr Jackson from Biggin Hill in Kent will sell his share in an electrical business and the family will rent out their five-bedroom home  but sell all their possessions  before they leave.

The Jacksons do not know when or of they will return to life in the UK.

Mr Jackson told Kent Live: 'We are doing this to spend some family time together, to explore.

'And because we are just fed up with the general routine and we just want to go on an exciting journey together as a family.

'I have worked so hard since leaving school.

'I've had my business for the last eight years and it's growing and people say you're throwing it away.

'But I don't look at it like as throwing it away  it got me to this point where I want to be now.'

The Jackson family from Kent are about to embark on a trip around the globe with their children who will be 'world schooled'

Dan Jackson from Kent with his daughter three-year-old Taromina and son Wolfie, one, as they took a road trip around the UK before announcing their big adventure

The parents said online they want their children to .

They wrote: 'We love the idea of our children being raised unconditioned by any particular culture and absorbing their own influence from each country they experience.

'It will be refreshing for them to be free to learn without any specific society pressures and in their own unique fashion.

'Stepping out of traditional British society and into completely unique and polar opposite cultures will be humbling and we plan to focus our attentions on experiences with people living all around the World and sharing our raw feelings and reflections each week. Instead of viewing them from the outside we want to venture in, to speak to real people living real lives that are starkly different to ours back in England.'

Keen blogger and writer Poppy said their journey began with giving up meat.

She said: 'Becoming vegan led us to question many things in life that are offered to us on a plate so to speak and a question buzzing around in our head was full time travel.

'But it took a while to actually believe it was a possibility and we did this by slowly stripping back the thought of need of security and stability.'

Poppy Jackson wanted to change her life after she stopped eating meat and became fully vegan. The mother-of-two said she began to question what life offers 'on a plate'

Dan Jackson and his wife Poppy do not have any definite plans but they will travel where their daughter Taromina wants to go first - to Iceland

The family announced their intention to change their entire lives on YouTube and they will blog about their life from @Ourventurebeyond on Instagram

Taromina and Wolfie will head off around the world with their parents who hope they can make a living through blogging and other work while abroad

Poppy Jackson and daughter Taromina pictured in Florida. They are about to set off on a huge adventure around the world

The mother-of-two and ardent vegan also thinks travel will help her with her mental health.

She said: 'I have struggled with anxiety and depression for many years.

'Despite being on medication in the past and having therapy I have found that the best ways for me to tackle these reoccurring problems are through lifestyle changes, including using mindfulness techniques, simple living and listening to my intuition as to what makes me feel happy and free.

'I have always felt nomadic and feel a lot of the reason behind my mental health struggles lies in the safety net of daily routine and doing what our society expects of me.'

The family who leave for Iceland in August will record their journey on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

The Jackson family from Kent are heading off on an around-the-world adventure from August .Pictured: Dan Jackson and son Wolfie

Taromina, aged three, loves to travel and 'thrives on adventure' according to her parents. Their family will record their adventure online

The Jacksons from Biggin Hill are busy planning their journey as they prepare to take off from the UK in August - but they have not idea if or when they will returnOur Girl star Michelle Keegan joined calls for more funding for the armed forces today.

The actress spoke out on the issue of military cuts as she hailed the work that UK troops do around the world.

Meanwhile, a minister has broken ranks to back an amnesty for British soldiers who served in Northern Ireland.

Defence minister Tobias Ellwood said he wanted 'common sense' to prevail on the issue - despite the option not being including in a consultation on measures to deal with the toxic legacy of the troubles.

Our Girl star Michelle Keegan (pictured today) spoke out on the issue of military cuts as she hailed the work that UK troops do around the world

Keegan made a plea for more funding for the military as she appeared on the BBC's Andrew Marr show

The actress plays army medic Lance Corporal Georgie Lane in the hit ITV drama series Our Girl

Keegan, who plays army medic Lance Corporal Georgie Lane in the hit ITV drama series Our Girl, made her plea for more funding for the military as she appeared on the BBC's Andrew Marr show.

Concerns have been rising about a black hole in budgets with numbers and equipment stretched to the limit - and the threat from Russia thought to be at its highest since the Cold War.

The 31-year-old said: 'I have seen what's been going on and I think the Government should be pumping more money into the British army, 100 per cent.

'They not only fight for our country but they help countries all around the world.'

The former Coronation Street star said she often received messages from young women on social media to tell her they have been inspired to join the military after watching Our Girl.

Marr suggested that the programme showed life in the army in an overly positive light, and therefore could be seen as a form of propaganda.

Keegan replied: 'No, I think when people think about the armed forces as people on the front line battling, fighting shooting guns when in fact they do a lot of humanitarian missions as well.

Keegan also rejected suggestions that the show is unrealistic as she wears make-up while portraying her character.

She said: 'I have had comments about me wearing make-up but I'm actually not. I have tattooed eyebrows and straight people say 'that's not allowed in the army'.

'I can't wipe them off! A lot of my make-up was down to a minimum.

Tobias Ellwood - himself a former soldier - has made clear he supports calls from Tory MPs for an amnesty for soldiers who served in Northern Ireland

'I've met girls who work in the army and are medics and they've told me 'that's normal, you've not done anything wrong there'. You're still representing the country.'

Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley sparked a furious row last month with proposals for addressing the legacy of violence in the province.

The public consultation excluded a chapter that would have limited investigations on hundreds of veterans, many now in their 60s and 70s.

The omission had earlier caused a Cabinet row with some ministers concerned it would trigger a 'witch-hunt'.

But the Government went ahead with the plans following pressure from Sinn Fein.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5's Pienaar's Politics today, Mr Ellwood - himself a former soldier - made clear he supported calls from Tory MPs for a rethink.

'I personally would like to see this considered. I hope common sense prevails,' he said.Vikki Campion has revealed she came close to aborting her son after finding out she was pregnant with Barnaby Joyce's baby.

Mr Joyce, 51, and his former media adviser spoke out about their affair on Channel Seven's Sunday Night program with reporter Alex Cullen.

Ms Campion, 33, said she took a pregnancy test in winter 2017 which confirmed she was carrying Mr Joyce's child.

'I felt overwhelmed by the complexity of the situation we had caused ourselves,' she said.

Mr Joyce said as he doesn't believe in abortion, he knew at that moment he would lose his job as Deputy Prime Minister.

Vikki Campion has revealed she came close to aborting the son she was carrying with Barnaby Joyce

Mr Joyce and his former media adviser spoke out about their affair on Channel Seven's Sunday Night program

Ms Campion said she considered getting an abortion and bought the medicine.

'I tried, and I couldn't go through there,' she said.

After driving interstate from the Australian Capital Territory she said she 'walked in and then walked out' of an abortion clinic, ultimately deciding to keep the child.

Ms Campion said she was told by doctors shortly before she fell pregnant that she would not be able to have children.

The couple controversially accepted a $150,000 sum from the Seven Network to tell their side of the political scandal.

'Boy, man you caused me some problems,' Mr Joyce said of his baby son Sebastian.

'But it's all worth it. I just want him to be that little boy in the country.'

Ms Campion apologised to her son and 'every innocent party that was dragged through this'.

The couple revealed they were 'close for a long time' while working together, before their relationship became romantic in late 2016.

'I was close to him. I was going through some fairly difficult private circumstances of my own. He was also going through some things,' she said.

Mr Joyce's wife Natalie was becoming suspicious about his relationship with his media adviser as they continued to spend large amounts of time together.

Ms Campion said she couldn't repeat the words Natalie used towards her during a confrontation.

Mr Joyce admitted to living a lie by continuing his public relationship with his wife while secretly being involved with Ms Campion.

He refused to comment on his estranged wife Natalie and his four daughters, saying that was 'completely private'.

Ms Campion said she was hurt that Mr Joyce had said Sebastian's paternity was a 'grey area'.

'It was a decision we made together,' Mr Joyce said of his comments, before she rebutted: 'I didn't tell you to say it was a ''grey area''.'

The former Deputy Prime Minister also slammed Malcolm Turnbull's decision to criticise him over the affair, saying it was the 'wrong' decision.

'You admonish someone privately and then you support them publicly... that's the golden rule,' Mr Joyce said.

The Prime Minister said Mr Joyce's behaviour had been 'appalling'.

The affair between Barnaby Joyce and his former media adviser Vikki Campion caused his salary to halve from $416,000 to $203,000 as backbencher with no portfolio (the couple are pictured here at a bar at Glebe in Sydney's inner west last year before the news broke)

Ms Campion revealed the backlash she felt after news of the affair and her pregnancy went public.

'One I remember said: 'I hope the baby is born stillborn',' she said of the social media comments she was subjected to - a comment which was particularly hurtful for her because of 'health problems' she had throughout the pregnancy.

She also spoke of pressure she was put under by 'conservatives' inside the Australian parliament to terminate the pregnancy or risk losing her career prospects.

'Everything was worth it for this,' Ms Campion said, as she held the hand of her baby son.

He said he wouldn't discourage his son from a career in politics, although he said he would have to question him if he decided to run for the Greens.

Mr Joyce is estranged from his wife of 24 years Natalie and their four adult daughters as a result of the extramarital affair that forced him to quit as Nationals leader and Deputy Prime Minister.

The backbench MP for the New South Wales seat of New England told the Seven Network he had let his family down.

'I failed, I failed, I failed, I failed, I failed,' he said.

The former accountant's salary has also halved from $416,000 to $203,000 after the affair raised character questions about the Catholic, family values politician who had last year campaigned against gay marriage.

Despite the personal and political pain that caused to her boyfriend, Vikki Campion said that was the price of love.

'I couldn't help it. You can't help who you fall in love with,' she said.

Joyce refused to accept sole responsibility for the revealing tell-all - which many are calling hypocritical given the politician's previous demands for privacy - due to the fact that Vikki will be interviewed as well

The pair's decision to go forward with the interview has angered Mr Joyce's own conservative side of politics.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said he was opposed to the paid media interview.

'It's not a course of action I would have encouraged,' he said.

Mr Joyce said the money from the interview would go into a trust fund for young Sebastian which would be controlled by an independent administrator.

His successor as Nationals leader Michael McCormack had a similar view point as the Prime Minister when it came to a federal MP accepting cash, albeit indirectly, for a paid interview.

HOW THE BARNABY JOYCE AFFAIR UNFOLDED 2016 May - Vikki Campion assists Barnaby Joyce's election campaign as media adviser, having previously worked with NSW government ministers and News Corp August - Campion joins Joyce's staff. She splits with fiance John Bergin, three months before they were due to wed. Friendship develops between Joyce and Campion December - Chief of staff Di Hallam reportedly seeks Joyce's approval to have Campion transferred out of office. Hallam later quits to take up departmental role 2017 February - Campion is photographed in a Sydney bar with Joyce, as revealed by Daily Mail Australia April - Barnaby's wife Natalie reportedly confronts Campion in Tamworth. Campion goes to minister Matt Canavan office as adviser. Natalie and Barnaby seek to make marriage work May - At New South Wales Nationals conference in Broken Hill colleagues describe Joyce as 'a mess' June - Natalie and Barnaby show up together at Canberra press gallery midwinter ball July - Campion leaves her $191,000 job in Mr Canavan's office after he quits frontbench over citizenship. She temporarily goes back to Joyce's office August - Campion moves to Damian Drum's office in a social media adviser position specially created for her. He already has a media adviser. In this time she oversees just 50 posts to Facebook Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull is reportedly reassured by Joyce the relationship with Campion is over. Drum says he was told the same thing. Former Joyce chief of staff Di Hallam takes up a senior position with the Inland Rail project September - Natalie reportedly asks family friend, Catholic priest Father Frank Brennan, to counsel Joyce. Campion is seen managing Joyce media events at federal Nationals conference in Canberra October - Campion reportedly takes stress leave. Writ issued for New England by-election after Joyce quits over dual citizenship November - Natalie holidays in Bali with a daughter. Man in a pub in Inverell angers Joyce during election campaign by reportedly saying: 'Say hello to your mistress' December - Joyce wins by-election. Joyce tells parliament during same-sex marriage debate he is separated. Campion's redundancy package is approved. They move into an Armidale property provided rent-free by businessman Greg Maguire 2018 January - Joyce and Campion holiday in north Queensland and NSW north coast February - Joyce tells reporters Campion is now his partner. But denies she was his partner when she worked in Canavan's office March - Joyce casts doubt on the baby's paternity, calling it a 'grey area' and claiming journalists never asked him if Ms Campion's child was his April 16 - Sebastian Joyce born May 8 - Baby boy seen for the first time May 26 - Details emerge of Barnaby Joyce's paid $150,000 interview May 30 - Seven Network reveals Vikki Campion pressured to have abortion June 5 - Joyce announces he intends to re-contest the seat of New England at the next election June 21 - Natalie Joyce speaks out in a tell-all unpaid interview 2019 January 20 - Ms Campion and Mr Joyce announce they are expecting a second son June - The couple welcome their Thomas Michael Timothy Joyce Advertisement

'I wouldn't have done it, but you know that's a decision that Barnaby has taken,' he said.

Mr Joyce has taken personal leave for several weeks to spend time with Ms Campion and their son Sebastian.

Mr Joyce has refused to accept sole responsibility for the revealing tell-all - which many are calling hypocritical given the politician's previous demands for privacy - due to the fact that Vikki will be interviewed as well.

The former deputy prime minister said the decision was made after weeks of relentless media pressure that showed no signs of 'burning out', as the mother of his newborn realised she may as well benefit from the ordeal, New Corp reported.

'We tried for privacy,' said Mr Joyce.

'In the last fortnight we've had drones over our house. We've had paparazzi waiting for us outside Armidale airport... we've tried just burning this out and that didn't work.'

The couple, who now have a five-week old son Sebastian, has controversially accepted $150,000 from the Seven Network to tell their side of a major political scandalPolice have released an image of a man wanted for questioning in relation to the assault of a woman in her 90s inside an aged care centre.

The elderly woman was allegedly attacked by a man just after 8.30am after he broke into the Charlestown facility, outside of Newcastle on the NSW coast, on May 11.

The man fled when police were alerted and the woman, who was not injured, was taken to hospital as a precaution.

Detectives from Lake Macquarie Police District have released an image of a man they believe can assist with inquiries regarding an indecent assault of a 90-year-old woman

Detectives from Lake Macquarie Police District have released an image of a man they believe can assist with inquiries.

The man in the image is described as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in his 60s, approximately 170cm to 175cm tall, with a slim to medium build and grey hair.

He was wearing a grey jumper with blue across the chest, dark-coloured shorts along with dark socks and joggers.

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.



Italy's new hardline interior minister Matteo Salvini arrived in Sicily today to push the anti-immigration agenda which propelled him to power.

The leader of the right-wing League, who has told illegal immigrants to 'pack their bags', rallied support today in Pozzallo, a port town on the front line of the Mediterranean refugee crisis.

The port town in southern Sicily is one of the main landing points for refugees fleeing war, persecution and famine across North Africa and the Middle East.

It came after 35 migrants were killed last night when their boat sank off Tunisia's southern coast, with 68 others rescued by the coast guard.

Italy's new interior minister Matteo Salvini (centre), pictured today in Catania, has put cutting down on illegal immigration at the top of his agenda

Tunisians and seven foreigners were among the survivors, including nationals from Ivory Coast, Mali, Morocco and Cameroon, said a defence ministry spokesman.

The interior ministry reported a distress call on Saturday night at 10:45 pm from "a fishing boat about to sink" with migrants on board.

Italy ended three months of political turnoil on Friday when the League formed a coalition with the Five Star Movement under new PM Giuseppe Conte.

Luigi Di Maio, the leaders of the Five-Star Movement was also in Sicily on Sunday, a week before municipal elections on the island region.

The League is historically a northern regional party but is trying to boost its profile in the country's poorer south.

A controversial agreement between Italy's former centre-left government and authorities and militias in Libya has triggered a fall in overall arrivals of some 75 percent since the summer of 2017.

But so far this year Italian authorities have still registered more than 13,500 arrivals.

The most recent came late on Friday, just hours after Salvini took his oath of office, when 158 people including nine children landed Pozzallo after being rescued by the Italian coast guard.

Salvini had said after being sworn in that he would ask his ministry's experts 'how to reduce the number of arriving migrants and increase the number of expulsions'.

'The good times for illegals is over - get ready to pack your bags,' he said Saturday at a rally in Italy's north.

'Countries need to start doing their job and no more smugglers should be docking in Italian ports,' he said in a swipe at the NGOs organising rescues at sea, which he has regularly accused of complicity with people traffickers.

He added during a stop in Catania that the new government would 'not take a hard line on immigration but one of common sense.'

Italy narrowly avoided new elections when the League and Five Star Movement reached an agreement late on Friday, forming a government at the second attempt.

The leader of the right-wing League, who has told illegal immigrants to 'pack their bags', rallied support today in Sicily (pictured in Catania)

The country had faced political instability for three months after inconclusive March elections, rocking financial markets and spreading unease among its euro partners.

The two parties' first attempt at a coalition was foiled when President Sergio Mattarella vetoed the choice of Eurosceptic Paolo Savona as economy minister.

Mattarella then asked pro-austerity economist Carlo Cottarelli to form a caretaker government, but when his support crumbled Five Star and the League frantically resumed talks to get their coalition back on track.

Luigi Di Maio, leader of the anti-establishment Five Star movement, has also called rescue NGOs 'taxis on the sea'.

The previous government announced a budget of some 4.2 billion euros for migrants, of which 18 percent is for rescues at sea, 13 percent for health care, and 65 percent for migrant reception centres, which host some 170,000 people.

But Salvini is targeting those funds in order to increase the number of detention centres.

A lifeboat from the Italian frigate Grecale carries a group of migrants rescued in the Mediterranean Sea, who were on their way to the post of Pozzallo in Sicily (pictured in 2014)

The vast majority of existing centres are run by cooperatives or NGOs who were promised 25-35 euros per day for each person they provide with lodging, clothes and other services including legal aid or psychological support.

The new government will also change the labour reform introduced by the previous administration, Labour and Industry Minister Luigi di Maio said.

'People not only don't have any (job) security to get married, they don't even have any (job) security to book their holidays,' Di Maio, 5-Star Movement's leader, said in a Facebook post.

Di Maio was appointed as deputy prime minister and head of the newly merged labour and industry ministry.

The legislation, introduced in 2015, made it easier for large companies to fire people and offered fiscal incentives for companies that hired permanent workers on new, less-protected terms.

Employment has increased, but in the last two years most new jobs created have been the kind of temporary work the Jobs Act was supposed to deter. Italy's unemployment rate stood at 11.2 percent in April.A tiny island less than a quarter the size of Bondi Beach has become a breeding ground for deadly tiger snakes.

Minuscule Carnac Island, just off the coast of Perth on Australia's west coast, is home to at least 400 of the ultra-aggressive reptiles.

Discovered by a French explorer in 1803, the island was used as a prison to hold Indigenous Australians before being turned into a quarantine station.

Now, it's the safe haven for a thriving population of tiger snakes, who enjoy the luxury of having no predators on the island.

The tiger snakes (pictured) are hard to spot amongst all of the vegetation on the island

There is approximately three tiger snakes to ever 25 square metres of land on Carnac Island

There is approximately three tiger snakes to every 25 square metres - which equates to one of the deadly reptiles every few steps.

Snakes share their home with sea lions, dolphins and an array of marine and bird wildlife.

While there is no permanent fresh water supply, the snakes have, scarily so, adapted to the conditions and survive with minimal water.

While there is no evidence as to how the snakes initially arrived to the area, it is rumoured that a man named Lindsay 'Rocky' Vane dumped his tiger snake collection on the island in 1929 after his first wife died of a tiger snake bite.

In November 2006, David Attenborough visited the island with a BBC film crew to record a reptile documentary.

The snakes should not be approached under any circumstances, and are the fifth most venomous in the world

Attenborough noted that majority of the island's snakes were in fact blind.

This is caused by birds defending their chicks by pecking at the snakes' eyes.

In contrast to what one would expect of a blind animal, the snakes were not negatively impacted by their blindness, simply relying more heavily upon scent, feasting on immobile prey.

Carnac island is thus far the only place that Attenborough has noticed this.

'In terms of island snakes, this is probably one of the densest populations in the world,' Animal Plant Mineral biologist Dr Mitchell Ladyman told Nine News.

Tourists visiting the islandare urged to stay on the beach, and to under no conditions approach the vegetation without shoes on.A man stood filming planes take off on the Greek island of Skiathos got the shock of his life when the powerful thrust of an aircraft's engines knocked him off his feet.

Paul Turner from Cheshire is responsible for capturing the remarkable footage of a Thomas Cook passenger plane  an Airbus A321-231  taking off at Skiathos Airport.

As the plane accelerates along the runway, Turner's camera suddenly pans skywards as he is sent flying by the sheer force of the carrier jet's turbines.

Scroll down for video

Paul Turner was filming planes take off at Skiathos Airport on the Greek island

The Thomas Cook passenger carrier was taxiing along the runway as plane-watchers observed from a nearby beach, a popular location for tourists

Cheshire man Turner was standing just 30ft from the plane as it prepared for take off

Powerful gusts from the jet's engines causes vegetation to wave wildly as the plane starts to accelerate up the runway

The blast of wind causes Turner to be knocked off his feet

His camera is sent sprialling as he falls to the ground

Turner said he'll hold on to the barrier next time

The spot Turner was filming is a hit among tourists for plane-watching as the runway backs on to a beach just an estimated 30ft from where aircrafts take off.

Most observers grab on to a bordering fence to prevent being blown over by the gust of the engines.

'I have always wanted to stand in the jet stream of a passenger jet after seeing videos on Facebook of other people doing it at Skiathos Airport,' Turner said.

'This was one for my bucket list, now finally ticked off. I didn't realize just how close you can actually get to the jets on the runway  some 30ft or less on takeoff.

'It has to be one of the closest standing points a member of the public can stand on takeoff and in glorious sunshine too on the beautiful island of Skiathos.

'When the Jets land it's just as impressive, you can literally feel the air move as they pass over you it's an amazing experience.'

Ironically, Turner owns a camera stabilising company called Smoothshot.

'I own a camera stabiliser business called Smoothshot . Even one of our Steadicams would be no match for the power of a civila aviation jet on take off. It literally knocked me off my feet.

'I will remember to hold on to the barrier next time.'Theresa May was hit with the wrath of a former Cabinet colleague today as Priti Patel blasted her 'negative' approach to Brexit.

Mrs Patel voiced anger that senior figures in government were 'talking the economy down' rather than viewing cutting ties with Brussels as a massive opportunity.

And she laid the blame squarely on the PM and Chancellor Philip Hammond, suggesting that having two Remainers in the most powerful posts was a problem.

The intervention ratchets up the pressure on Mrs May as talks with Brussels reach a critical stage - with a standoff over the Irish border threatening to throw the process into turmoil.

Priti Patel voiced anger that senior figures in government were 'talking the economy down' rather than viewing cutting ties with Brussels as a massive opportunity (file picture)

Theresa May (pictued at church in Maidenhead with husband Philip today) is facing mounting disquiet about her handling of the Brexit negotiations

Mrs Patel, who quit as Aid Secretary last year after admitting holding unauthorised meeting while on holiday in Israel, told The House magazine that the Conservatives had become 'lazy' and she heard 'too much relentless talking down' of Britain's economy.

Asked if having Remain supporters Mrs May and Mr Hammond at the top of government was part of the problem, she said: 'I have to say, originally I thought it wasn't. But I think it's fair to say that there's something in that. There is absolutely something in that.

'I actually resent the negativity.'

Talking about the wider Government, she added: 'We are basically now at that two-year anniversary mark.

Nearly one in six voters think May should quit after Brexit Nearly six in 10 voters think Theresa May should quit after Brexit talks are completed, according to a poll. Research by Deltapoll found 56 per cent wanted her to stand down next March - although 59 per cent of Tory voters believe she should stay on. Some 57 per cent fear the UK's negotiating team are making a hash of the exit talks. However, the survey conducted for the Sun on Sunday suggests the public has no clear successor in mind. Boris Johnson is the most popular replacement, but only has backing from one in six voters. The poll puts Labour neck and neck with the Tories on 41 per cent. Deltapoll director Joe Twyman said: 'The fact Boris tops the list with support from fewer than one in six Brits  and only one in five Tory voters  shows the trouble the Conservatives are in.' Advertisement

'Being bogged down in the minutiae is one thing. But moaning about Brexit in government and saying that it's too difficult and talking down our country I think is actually quite shameful.'

However, she said that the party leadership should remain in place, adding: 'They've got to deliver for the country. It's non-negotiable.'

Meanwhile, Tory donor Crispin Odey has warned that the Prime Minister cannot make decisions and would not see Brexit through.

He said Mr Gove - one of the architects of the Leave campaign - should take over at the head of a much bolder administration that was prepared to break EU rules before Brexit.

Mr Odey, who previously donated to Ukip before switching allegiance, told the Observer: 'Michael has got lots of attributes that make him a non-traditional Tory.

'He is very aware that he has to appeal not just to the wealthy, but also more broadly.

'I don't think May can carry Brexit through any more.'

Yesterday International Trade Secretary Liam Fox admitted Cabinet ministers analysing one of the potential solutions to the Irish border problem had met just once in the month since they were given the task.

The working group analysing the 'customs partnership' proposal that would see Britain continue to collect tariffs on behalf of the EU was waiting for a report to be finished and will meet for a second time next week, he told the BBC.

A second group is considering Leave-backers' favoured technology-based 'maximum facilitation' - or 'max fac' - solution.

Brussels has already rejected both schemes, with chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier saying on Friday that neither was 'operational or acceptable'.

The Government has been told by EU leaders and Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar that they want to see progress over the impasse on the Irish border by the time the European Council meets at the end of June.

Chancellor Philip Hammond (left) was also the subject of Mrs Patel's ire. Hedge fund boss Crispin Odey said the PM could not make decisions and would not see Brexit through

Tanaiste Simon Coveney upped the ante yesterday telling the Irish Times the UK must produce 'written proposals' for the border within the next two weeks.

Meanwhile, civil servants have reportedly been drawing up scenarios for a 'Doomsday Brexit' that would leave the country short of medicine, fuel and food.

The Sunday Times said this included models for mild, severe and 'Armageddon' reactions to no-deal exits.

It quoted a source as saying that even the severe scenario saw the Port of Dover 'collapse on day one'.A man is suing a New York CVS pharmacy because an employee revealed his secret prescription of Viagra to his wife, which he claims then ruined his marriage.

Michael Feinberg purchased the Viagra prescription at the Merrick Road CVS in Long Island last year and told the pharmacy he would pay for the pills instead of it being put through on his insurance.

His prescription was for eight 100mg Viagra pills with five refills.

Michael Feinberg purchased the Viagra prescription at a CVS in Long Island, New York last year and told the pharmacy he would pay for the pills instead of using his insurance

The lawsuit, obtained by the New York Post, said Feinberg specifically told a CVS employee not to put the prescription through his insurance.

But several days after filling the prescription, Feinberg claims his wife called the pharmacy about her own medication and an employee mentioned his Viagra pills.

Feinberg said in the lawsuit that his 'marriage has broken down' as a result of the secret but it does not elaborate on how.

The lawsuit claims the pharmacy violated his privacy because CVS did not have his permission to reveal his healthcare details under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

Several days after filling the prescription, Feinberg claims his wife called the pharmacy about her own medication and an employee mentioned his Viagra pills

It goes on to say that the pharmacy 'improperly' informed Feinberg's wife that the Viagra was not being covered by insurance.

Feinberg claims in the lawsuit that his wife had no right to know about the drugs.

The negligence lawsuit is calling for unspecified damages.

Feinberg says in the suit that the ordeal has left him suffering 'genuine, severe mental injury and emotional harm'.A mother whose baby passed away at just 19 hours old has been awarded 28,700 from the NHS after hospital staff failed to spot he had pneumonia.

Staff at the Royal Oldham Hospital in Greater Manchester failed to notice that newborn Dominic had developed pneumonia and was struggling to breath.

Last week, his mother Chelsea Smith, 24, was awarded 28,700 after the NHS trust responsible for the baby's care admitted it was at fault.

An inquest also heard how neglect from staff had contributed towards his passing in June 2015.

Just hours after the tragic loss of her first born son, Ms Smith was quizzed by police over the baby's death.

Chelsea Smith, 24, poses with her newborn Dominic and his father Tony, 31

Instead she suffered the tragic loss of her baby and just hours later was being quizzed by police over what had happened.

After losing little Dominic, Ms Smith was shocked to learn that independent investigators had been called into the hospital just two months before she gave birth.

The Acute Pennine NHS Trust, which then ran the Royal Oldham, referred itself for investigation after the deaths of four other babies and two mothers between December 2013 and July 2014.

Ms Smith now now wishes to speak out about the terrible care she received at the scandal-hit hospital where months earlier investigators were brought in to probe a worrying number of deaths on the maternity ward.

The 24-year-old mother added she is certain staff shortages and budgets cuts are helping fuel problems at already over-stretched mother and baby units.

She echoes childbirth charity NCT which suggested last December that maternity care in England was 'in crisis'.

Dominic Smith lived just 19 hours before he died of pneumonia in a Manchester hospital

A report found that a total of 276,767 maternity mistakes were logged between April 2015 and 2017 - the equivalent of one for every five births.

While most were minor or near misses, the figures released by NHS Improvement included 288 cases in which either the mother or baby died.

This includes Ms Smith's case, which could have been avoided if overworked nurses had not made simple mistakes.

Figures from 2016 also show maternity wards were forced to shut their doors 382 times - a 70 percent increase in just two years.

The Royal College of Midwives has blamed the government's consistent failure to recruit new midwives, with a third now approaching retirement age.

Ms Smith said she was the human face of the government's failure to get a grip on the issue.

She said: 'I want to warn other people. People know that I've lost a baby but they don't know why.

'I've never told anyone why.

'Honest to God, I have constantly asked myself 'why am I here if he's not here?

'The pain has been unbearable.

'Hospitals need a lot more funding and staff. This would help prevent future deaths.'

An inquiry exposed neglect, poor attitude and chronic staff shortages.

Last week, his mother Chelsea Smith, 24, was awarded 28,700 after the NHS trust responsible for the baby's care admitted it was at fault

And an internal report published in June 2016 linked short-staffing to a series of deaths, though this did not include Dominic's.

It stated: 'The effect of poor staffing numbers in clinics has meant women have fragmented care, suffered long waits and not had appropriate management.'

Now Ms Smith questions why she used the hospital to give birth.

Doctors first failed to notice that her waters had broken four days before she was admitted.

She visited the ward three times complaining that she was in agony but was sent back home.

This staggering failure contributed to baby Dominic's untimely death, a coroner ruled, as it led to staff missing early warning signs that something was wrong.

After being turned away previously, Ms Smith was finally admitted on June 1, 2015.

Dominic was delivered the next morning weighing 6lbs 14oz after showing signs of distress in the womb.

Chelsea, 24 and Tony Smith, 31 and their daughter Summer-Ann, 2

A report showed the the baby was in 'good condition' after birth.

Ms Smith said: 'He was perfect. I was so tired but after he started crying, everything seemed fine.

'I was just so happy.'

After family members visited, the new mother and baby both fell asleep for a few hours.

No neonatal observations were recorded, although a midwife noted that the new mother felt hot to touch.

And when baby Dominic started to turn blue at 9pm, a midwife failed to take any action.

A report filed after his death notes that the baby was showing 'notable signs of deterioration' at this point, but nothing was done.

'It was about supper time and a healthcare assistant came in' Ms Smith said.

'She said 'Isn't he cute!' and then she just stopped and looked at me.

'Then she ran out of the room, ran back in, grabbed him and hit a button and ran out.

The 24-year-old mother added she is certain staff shortages and budgets cuts are helping fuel problems at already over-stretched mother and baby units

'Nobody told me what was happening..

'Obviously I was panicking and getting upset.

'Another health care visitor came in and told me that he had stopped breathing.

'A team ran through straight away and they were working on him for about ten minutes.

'I got moved into a side room and I rang Tony, who came as fast as he could.

'One of the midwives said 'You'll laugh about this when you're older. He's just being a naughty boy. He'll be fine.'

'Next thing, they came in and told me that he had died.

'They said they didn't want to resuscitate him any longer because he had brain damage.'

'We didn't make any sense as we were so upset.

'I couldn't be comforted.'

After arranging to have photographs with Dominic the next morning, Ms Smith returned to her hospital bed to get some sleep.

But early next morning, she was woken up and quizzed about Dominic's death by two officers.

He had died just hours earlier and officers were asking her if she had done something to him.

Chelsea Smith, 24 and Tony Smith, 31 on their wedding day

For the new mother and her husband, this was the most terrible line of questioning.

The sobbing pair said they were 'made to feel like criminals' as they were quizzed by two officers about what they had been doing in the last hours of their son's life.

Police asked if the mum had been angry and if she'd alerted staff when he was crying.

'It felt like they were blaming me. It felt like they thought I had done something to the baby' Ms Smith recalls.

'It was absolutely awful, we just cried our way through it.

'They were asking me what happened, what I had done, what I had given him.

'It felt like we had done something and were being interrogated.

'When it finished, I told the hospital I wanted to get out.

'I didn't want to stay there anymore, I felt like I had been failed in every way.'

The couple returned home but after such an unimaginable loss, they found it hard to cope.

'I came home and everything was awful. I didn't want to be there.

'I felt so guilty. I felt like I'd hurt my baby or done something wrong when I was pregnant.

'I kept wondering what I had done so badly that I didn't have my baby.

'I was struggling, I wasn't coping well at all. I was drinking a lot.

'I was blowing all my money on nothing.'

Staff at the hospital initially said that his death was due to cot death.

But a second post mortem insisted upon by the family revealed that baby Dominic's death could have been avoided.

What is pneumonia and what's the risk to babies? Pneumonia is swelling (inflammation) of the tissue in one or both lungs and is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Common symptoms include a cough, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat and a fever. In the UK, pneumonia affects around 8 in 1,000 adults each year, but it is more common and offers greater risk to the very young and elderly. Children with usually have sudden symptoms. While unusual in the UK more than one million children die from pneumonia globally. Advertisement

It showed that he had died of pneumonia which hadn't been spotted.

At an inquest in June 2016, assistant deputy coroner Lisa Hashmi ruled that neglect had 'more than minimally' contributed to Dominic's death.

Now, Chelsea is still struggling to pick up the pieces of her shattered life.

She became pregnant with her daughter Summer-Ann just a month later in July 2015 in a desperate bid to become a mother.

She said: 'I wanted to be pregnant again. I wanted to have a baby to hold and feel like a proper mum.

'Not having my son was so hard. I needed something to keep me sane.

'Dominic should be at school now. He should be causing more mischief than Summer does.

'It's hard. He should be three this year. It's so hard.

'The inquest helped.

'It felt like a weight was lifted but I was still so angry.

'I didn't have to blame myself any more.'

The hospital, in Oldham, Greater Manchester, has had more than its fair share of scandal.

In November 2016, a premature baby died from a serious infection after doctors failed to administer antibiotics.

A coroner again ruled that neglect had contributed to the tragic death of nine-day-old Daniel Grogan and that medical staff had missed several opportunities to save the baby's life.

And in January, new figures revealed that in excess of 84m has been paid out in damages for mistakes made by the hospital trust which runs the Royal Oldham since 2012.

After learning of these deaths, Ms Smith fears that the same mistakes are being repeated.

'I read about those incidents in the papers.

'And I thought "Oh, we're not the only ones" It made me so angry.

'It made me wonder what had been done since those incidents.

'They might have done their best but they hadn't fixed it.

'I wish I had never gone to that hospital.'

The Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust merged with the Salford Royal NHS Foundation to become the Northern Care Alliance NHS Group last year.

Simon Mehigan, Group Director of Midwifery and Gynaecology, said: 'We would like to express our sympathy to baby Dominic Smith's parents, family and friends for their loss and apologise to his mum Chelsea for the mental anguish she has experienced since losing her son.

'We have carried out a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Dominic's death at The Royal Oldham Hospital on 2 June 2015 and we are sad to say that he did not receive the high standard of care we usually provide, and for that we are sorry.

'In order to improve we have identified the failings that occurred in baby Dominic's care and we have introduced a number of improvements to prevent these failings from occurring again.

'Since 2015, we have strengthened and put in place new leaderships teams across our hospitals with greater focus on service improvements and learning from incidents.'

Erica Stewart, Bereavement Support & Awareness Specialist at Sands (the Stillbirth And Neonatal Death charity), said: 'When a baby dies, parents and families can feel very isolated as their world can be turned completely upside down.

'Sands is here to support anyone affected by the death of a baby.

'We offer emotional support and information through our Freephone helpline on 0808 164 3332 or email helpline@sands.org.uk

'We also have around 100 peer support groups throughout the UK where newly bereaved parents can speak to other bereaved parents who have been through a similar experience.

'This can help to normalise their feelings of grief and reassure them they are not alone.

'The charity also provides a moderated online community where bereaved parents can log in to a safe space and seek support from each other whenever they might need it.'Louis Vuitton has been controlling the weather in France according to the designer brand's event organisers who believe they know how to stop the rain on show day.

The high-end designer label was so worried guests would be drenched at the Cruise 2019 show in Saint-Paul de Vence, a small medieval town on the Cote d'Azur in France last week, the brand hired a shaman.

And, unlike the Dior show which was rocked by rain, the VIP guests and models were not disrupted by raindrops.

Shamans are healers, traditionally found in northern Asia and North America. They are believed to have access to, and influence in the 'spirit world' and some can control the weather, it is believed.

(L-R) Camelia Jordana, Doona Bae, Laura Harrier, Sophie Turner, Sienna Miller and Ruth Negga attend the Louis Vuitton Cruise Collection fashion show, held at the Fondation Maeght in Sain Paul de Vence

Kate Young, a renowned stylist who was at the show with model Sienna Miller, revealed the shaman was hired.

She said: 'The art collection is incredible and there was a musical installation. Vuitton hired a shaman to stave off the rain and apparently all his work succeeded (kissing trees, or so I heard), because it didn't rain until after the show finished.'

A shaman is a healer who is in touch with the spirit world and can control events on earth which other humans do not have the power to do, according to believers

Actress Emma Stone attends Louis Vuitton 2019 Cruise Collection at Fondation Maeght

According to Page Six, this is not the first time.

The shaman had been used before but bosses at parent company LVMH called time on the bizzare hiring.

The Brazilian national reportedly rakes in a six-figure salary

However, an outdoor Dior show was soaked last week in Chantilly, prompting his return to the payroll as brand bosses feared a wash-out.

Harpers Bizarre also said they spotted the shaman.

A review said: 'The unidentified shaman also commanded the weather at LV's Cruise shows in Rio and Kyoto.'

The show took place inside the Joan Miro's Labyrinthe, a life-size maze of sculptures that overlooked the hills of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.Britain's spies have been accused of continuing to share intelligence obtained under torture by foreign states.

Labour's Shadow Foreign Secretary, Emily Thornberry, and Shadow Attorney-General, Shami Chakrabarti made the damning claim in a letter to Boris Johnson - citing unpublicised figures from the latest annual report from the Intelligence Services Commissioner (ISC).

The ISC, which has a duty to assess the way MI5, MI6 and GCHQ share intelligence, states that three agencies and the Ministry of Defence considered the official guidance (Consolidated Guidance on the Detention and Interviewing of Detainees Overseas) in 921 cases.

Labour's Shadow Foreign Secretary, Emily Thornberry (right), and Shadow Attorney-General, Shami Chakrabarti (left) made the damning claim in a letter to Boris Johnson

In the letter, see by The Guardian, Thornberry and Chakrabarti, wrote: 'The commissioner's most recent report reveals a doubling of cases considered under the Consolidated Guidance, compared with the last three years, and an unprecedented number of acknowledged failures to apply the Guidance.'

Then-commissioner, Sir Mark Waller, who stood down last year, found GCHQ had failed to follow the guidance in 35 cases.

The letter stated: 'Even worse, in eight of those cases, it was found that the intelligence was shared despite the fact that the Guidance should have prohibited further action  presumably as a result of what were serious risks of torture or other ill-treatment.'

A Government spokeswoman said: 'The UK stands firmly against the use of torture. We do not participate in, solicit, encourage or condone the use of such techniques for any purpose and we have robust oversight arrangements in place.

'It is open to the public and civil society to submit their views at any time to the Government.'

The news comes after the Government last month apologised to a Libyan dissident - kidnapped with his heavily pregnant wife in Thailand - after MI6 tipped off the Americans, who handed them to Colonel Gaddafi, for their 'appalling' treatment.

Abdel Hakim Belhaj, 52, and his wife Fatima Boudchar were grabbed by the CIA in Bangkok in 2004 and delivered to the dictator in Tripoli where he was jailed for six years and tortured.

Mr Belhaj has claimed previously he was 'sacrificed' so Tony Blair could do his 'deal in the desert' with Colonel Gaddafi days later in a tent outside Tripoli.

Last month, Attorney General Jeremy Wright was forced to say sorry to the couple and revealed that Ms Boudchar was being given 500,000 in compensation as she watched in the Commons today.

Libyan dissident Abdel Hakim Belhaj holds a letter of apology he received by the British government today for his abduction was aided by MI6

Fatima Boudchar was pregnant with her son Abderrahim Belhaj, 14, (pictured together in Westminster last month). She being handed 500,000 by the British Government and a written apology for their treatment

Mr Belhaj (pictured last month) and his wife Fatima Boudchar were grabbed in Thailand in 2004 after MI6 tipped off the CIA who took them to Colonel Gaddafi for imprisonment. Mr Belhaj was also tortured

Belhaj, who is a Libyan politician who splits his time between Tripoli and Turkey, was unable to come to London because of ongoing peace talks.

He said he would settle the case for 3  1 for him, his wife and their unborn baby - but today it was confirmed he was given no payout at all.

Speaking from Istanbul at the time he said: 'From the very first moment, I insisted that there must be an apology. I never asked for money because I dont want to impose this on taxpayers'.

He also thanked Theresa May for her 'heartfelt' letter admitting Britain contributed to their detention, rendition and suffering'.

The legal battle began because documents (pictured) discovered in Tripoli, Libya, during the fall of Gaddafi revealed how MI6 were involved in the rendition of Hakim Belhaj and his wife

On 18 March, senior MI6 officer Sir Mark Allen sent a message (pictured) to his Libyan counterpart Moussa Koussa saying he believed the capture was thanks to the British

The couple's son Abderrahim, now 14, who was in his mothers womb when they were kidnapped, was in London with her for the apology.

Mr Belhaj thanked Theresa May for her written apology and said: 'There an admission of the shortcomings, an expression of unreserved apology, lessons learned, admission of failings and an expression of disappointment towards the international partners that I was handed over to'.

Dissident's pregnant wife claims CIA 'hit her in the stomach' before her 4lb baby was born Fatima Boudchar has described the moment she and her husband were kidnapped by the CIA in Thailand and the horrors of ending up in a filthy Libyan cell. Ms Boudchar was pregnant when she was snatched in March 2004 and would give birth in Tripoli around four months. The Libyans let her go on the eve of giving birth to her son Abderrahim, who was in London with her today. She said: 'After what the CIA did to me, my baby weighed four pounds'. The Moroccan-born woman had never even been to Libya in her life. The couple had moved from country to country hiding from Gaddafi's 'killers' because her husband was an outspoken critic of the regime and branded a terrorist by the dictator. Describing her ordeal she told the New York Times on Tuesday: 'I'll never forget the sight of my kidnappers, dressed all in black and wearing ski masks, waiting for me in a white cell in the Bangkok detention site. 'A man grabbed my head and shoved me into a truck. They blindfolded and trussed me.I have no idea how long I was in the Thai secret prison because no one would let me sleep. 'The masked abductors were waiting. I was terrified. They chained me to the hooks. Because I was midway through my pregnancy, I could barely move or sit. 'Some of what they did to me in that prison was so awful I cant talk about it. They hit me in the abdomen just where the baby was. To move me, they bound me to a stretcher from head to toe, like a mummy. I was sure I would shortly be killed'. Advertisement

The couple had moved from country to country hiding from Gaddafi's 'killers' because her husband was an outspoken critic of the regime and branded a terrorist by the dictator.

Britain told the US they were in Malaysia travelling on French passports under assumed names.

When they landed in Thailand the CIA were ready to grab them in Bangkok's airport.

His wife was jailed but released just before she gave birth to him in prison in 2004 and she said the 500,000 and the apology proves 'their torture was not and could never be justified'.

International human rights group Reprieve and the Belhaj family say their abduction was a direct result of a joint MI6-CIA operation following the 'deal in the desert' in which Tony Blair's government re-opened diplomatic links with Gaddafi.

Former foreign secretary Jack Straw and ex-MI6 chief Sir Mark Allen also face questions about their handling of the affair.

Attorney General Jeremy Wright said the agreement meant the Government did not have to admit any legal liability for what happened to Hakim Belhaj and his wife Fatima Boudchar in 2004.

But Prime Minister Theresa May has personally written to them both to apologise for their 'appalling' treatment, Mr Wright announced in the Commons.

He said Ms Boudchar was being given 500,000 despite the Government not admitting liability. He said Mr Belhaj had never asked for money and will not receive any.

In statements issued by their lawyers, Mr Belhaj and Ms Boudchar said they accepted the apology from Mrs May and the Government.

Mr Wright told MPs it was important for the security services to learn from 'where we got things wrong', but said they were not admitting liability in a carefully worded statement.

Mr Wright said the UK Government 'believes' the accounts and admitted Britain had 'contributed' to the appalling treatment they received.

He said: 'We are profoundly sorry for the ordeal you suffered and our role in it.'Sajid Javid has insisted Britain 'does not want' 32 Windrush migrants who were deported after committing serious offences.

The Home Secretary made the remarks as he gave an update on efforts to track down those who might have been wrongly kicked out of the country.

But Mr Javid was criticised by Labour's David Lammy, who said British citizens should not be evicted even if they had committed crimes.

Thousands of people who arrived in the UK after the Second World War have been caught up in a government crackdown on illegal immigration.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid (pictured left in London today) reiterated his determination to review the 'hostile environment' policy towards illegal immigration, which was pushed under Theresa May (pictured right at church in Maidenhead)

Mr Javid was criticised by Labour's David Lammy, who said it was wrong to evict British citizens even if they had committed crimes

Many were ordered to leave after being unable to provide documentary proof they were entitled to stay.

Appearing on the BBC's Andrew Marr show today, Mr Javid said that up to 63 Windrush migrants may have been deported wrongfully in the fiasco.

He said the government had so far managed to track down seven of those individuals.

What is the Windrush scandal and how did the fiasco develop? June 22, 1948 - The Empire Windrush passenger ship docked at Tilbury from Jamaica. The 492 passengers were temporarily housed near Brixton in London. Over the following decades some 500,000 came to the UK. Many arrived on their parents' passports and were not formally naturalised as British citizens. 1973 - A new immigration Act comes into force putting the onus on individuals to prove they have previously been resident in the UK. 2010 - The Home Office destroyed thousands of landing card slips recording Windrush immigrants arrival dates in the UK. The move came despite staff warnings that the move would make it harder to check the records of older Caribbean-born residents experiencing residency difficulties, it was claimed 2014 - A protection that exempted Commonwealth residents from enforced removal was removed under a new law. Theresa May was Home Secretary at the time. Under a crackdown on illegals, Windrush immigrants are obliged to provide proof they were resident in the UK before 1973. July 2016 - Mrs May becomes Prime Minister. April 2018 - Allegations that Windrush immigrants are being threatened with deportation break. Theresa May issued a grovelling apology to Caribbean leaders after major backlash April 29 - Amber Rudd resigns after inadvertently misleading Parliament by wrongly claiming there were no deportation targets Advertisement

However, Mr Javid said another 32 had been deported as foreign nationals after being convicted of serious offences.

'I don't want them back in our country,' he added.

Mr Javid said the government was still working to establish how many people from the Windrush generation might have been wrongly detained during the crackdown.

The Home Secretary reiterated his determination to review the 'hostile environment' policy towards illegal immigration, which was pushed under Theresa May.

He said he preferred to describe the government's approach as a 'compliant environment'.

'From Windrush, there will be lessons to be learned about how all that compliant environment policy is actually implemented. Is it actually working the way it was intended?' he said.

'I am going to look at how it's being implemented, I want to review aspects of the policy, I've already made some changes, certainly I've suspended certain things, for example opening bank accounts and whether you can or cannot as an illegal immigrant.'

However, Mr Lammy - a high-profile campaigner on the Windrush scandal - said those who had committed crimes were still British citizens.

'All Windrush citizens who have been deported are British citizens,' he said.

'We do not deport British citizens - if they have committed a crime they serve their time.

'We stopped deporting citizens to Australia in 1868. They are citizens first and foremost, everything else is secondary.'

During his interview, Mr Javid risked a rift with Mrs May by signalling a U-turn on tough immigration restrictions for NHS workers.

The Home Secretary said he 'saw the problem' with the cap on non-EU staff coming to fill posts in the health service.

Mr Javid also offered only lukewarm backing for Mrs May's target of bringing net immigration below 100,000 a year - and suggested that students could be taken out of the figures.

Appearing on the BBC's Andrew Marr show today, Mr Javid said that up to 63 Windrush migrants may have been deported wrongfully in the fiascoA raging fire has killed 28 racehorses as they were trapped inside a barn in upstate New York.

The blaze started around 3am Saturday morning inside a barn at the 63-acre Mount Hope Training Center in Otisville, New York.

A stable worker, identified as Saur, told the New York Post the horses were brought back to the stable around 1.30am after a race at the Pocono Downs in Pennsylvania.

When another worker went to feed the horses at 3am, he saw the blaze consuming half the barn.

'We could not save one horse,' Saur said.

A barn fire broke out at 3am at Mount Hope Training Center in Otisville, New York

The blaze killed all 28 horses that were tapped inside Saturday morning

'The guy got up to feed them in the morning about three o'clock in the morning. He saw half the barn on fire. He came back and shouted, ''Fire! fire!'' and everybody was running to help to save the horses,' Saur said.

He added that within three seconds the fire went 'poof' and the entire barn was consumed by flames.

Distraught, Saur said: 'They were crying like babies. They are like humans. This is killing me.'

The Orange County Sheriff's Office said no one was injured during the blaze or appeared to be in the barn when the flames broke out.

Some of the horses reportedly belonged to trainer Dean Eckley, who has been embroiled in controversy in the racing world.

Eckley was arrested years ago for animal cruelty.

He was also suspended when one of his horses tested positive for drugs.

Police are investigating and considering lightning as a possible cause, according to News 12.Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau slammed President Donald Trump's new steel and aluminum tariff policies, saying it is 'insulting and unacceptable' to say Canada is a threat to the U.S.

The Canadian prime minister fought back against the White House rational that the tariff policy was for in the best security interest of the United States.

'The idea that we are somehow a national security threat to the United States is quite frankly insulting and unacceptable,' he said on NBC's 'Meet the Press.'

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau fought back against the White House rational that the tariff policy was for in the best security interest of the United Sates

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Trump have been engaged in a war of words since the tariff decision was announced, sparking fears of an international trade war

And when asked what Trump wanted from him with these tariffs, Trudeau responded: 'I don't know.'

It's the latest salvo in a rhetoric battle brewing between the neighboring countries over Trump's new tariff policy.

Trudeau, Trump and White House officials have been engaged in a war of words since the tariff decision was announced on Friday, sparking fears of an international trade war.

Trudeau, in his interview on 'Meet the Press,' emphasized the long history between the U.S. and Canada, noting how the military from each country has fought together.

'The idea that, you know, our soldiers who had fought and died together on the beaches of World War II on the - and the mountains of Afghanistan, and have stood shoulder to shoulder in some of the most difficult places in the world, that are always there for each other, somehow - this is insulting to them,' he said in an interview from his Parliament office in Ottawa.

'The idea that the Canadian steel that's in military, military vehicles in the United States, the Canadian aluminum that makes your, your fighter jets is somehow now a threat?'

On Friday, Trump allowed Canada and the European Union's exemptions from steel and aluminum tariffs to expire. That resulted in the U.S. imposing tariffs of 25 percent and 10 percent, respectively, on steel and aluminum imports from Canada and the European Union.

White House National Trade Council director Peter Navarro framed the issue as a matter of national security.

'This particular action on steel and aluminum is not about unfair trade practices,' Navarro told Fox Business. 'It's about national security.  Without an aluminum steel industry, we don't have a country.'

Trudeau counted that argument by emphasizing how the neighboring countries are bound together.

'There are no two countries that are as interconnected, interdependent. You sell more things to us every year than to UK, Japan, and China combined,' he told NBC.

He argued the decision would hurt U.S. jobs in addition to Canadian ones.

'The fact that the president has moved forward with these tariffs is not just going to hurt Canadian jobs. It's going to hurt U.S. jobs as well, and neither of those things is something that Canada wants to see.'

Trudeau responded to the administration's move by slapping retaliatory tariffs on $12.8 billion worth of U.S. goods, including metals, toilet paper, mayonnaise and handkerchiefs. EU leaders have also threatened a tariff counter-strike.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said Trudeau is 'overreacting.'

'To say that this is an attack on Canada is not right,' Kudlow told 'Fox News Sunday.'

Trump fought back too. He argued in a tweet on Saturday that the U.S. is losing the trade war and something must be done about it.

'When you're almost 800 Billion Dollars a year down on Trade, you can't lose a Trade War! The U.S. has been ripped off by other countries for years on Trade, time to get smart!,' the president wrote on Saturday.

The U.S. has a $8.4 billion trade surplus in goods and services with Canada, according to a report from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

But looking at trade in goods alone, Canada has a surplus of $17.5 billion last year, according to the same USTR report.

Trudeau is set to host Trump for the G7 summit next week in Quebec's Charlevoix region.

He told NBC News he will try to one-on-one time with Trump during that meeting and said he wanted to 'have a frank conversation about where we can work together to grow our economies, to help Canadian workers and American workers who are working in the same, in the same way to build a better future for their families.'

Last year, the U.S. ran a $796 billion trade deficit with the rest of the world. China accounted for the largest share of the deficit, at $375 billion.

Canada is America's largest source of imported steel, accounting for about 17 per cent of U.S. steel imports by volume.

However, some critics accuse Canada of buying cheap Chinese steel and flipping it in the U.S. for a profit, using NAFTA as a backdoor for China to avoid U.S. anti-dumping regulations. Canada denies the charge and last week launched a probe into Chinese steel dumping.

Canada is America's largest source of imported steel, accounting for about 17 per cent of U.S. steel imports by volume

When asked what President Trump wanted out of the new tariffs, Canadian Prime Minister told NBC's Chuck Todd: 'I don't know.'

The war of words shows no sign of abating and has been ongoing since last week when Canada was in negotiations to get an exemption on the tariffs.

Trudeau took aim at Vice President Mike Pence on Thursday as talks were ongoing, saying negotiations collapsed after a call with Pence in which the VP drew a red line under a five-year sunset for whatever deal is negotiated.

Trump fired back in a statement that said Trudeau could take his offer or leave it, as far as the U.S. is concerned.

'The United States has been taken advantage of for many decades on trade. Those days are over. Earlier today, this message was conveyed to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada: The United State[s] will agree to a fair deal, or there will be no deal at all,' Trump said in a statement distribute to press.

Trudeau said Thursday that prior to the phone call with Pence, 'I thought we were quite close to reaching an agreement.'

As such, he offered to come to Washington to finalize a deal with Trump.

'We already had the bones of a very good agreement for all parties, and I thought it might be opportune for all of us to sit down for a few hours and discuss it.'

Trudeau told NBC on Sunday that he knows Trump can be unpredictable.

'We've, you know, watched this president operate and worked with him over the past year. And we know that he prides himself on being unpredictable from time to time,' he said.

He also noted he thinks the two leaders, who famously shared an awkward handshake in February 2017 Oval Office meeting, have a good relationship.

'I've had a constructive relationship with him and will continue to, and I'm standing up clearly for Canadian interests. But as I've said, Canada has a tremendous vested interest in seeing the United States do well because if we're doing well and you're doing poorly, we're going to be doing poorly too. We're that interconnected, so we want a win/win, and that's what we've been working toward,' he said.

At the White House on Friday, the president's chief economic adviser, Larry Kudlow, called the dispute a 'family quarrel' that would ultimately be resolved.

'If you keep the lines of communication open, which everybody wants, this thing can work out,' he told DailyMail.com during a question and answer session.A conservative Stanford professor has resigned from a key position within the university's free speech program after he plotted to dig up dirt on a liberal student.

Niall Ferguson, a British historian, had been part of the California university's Cardinal Conversations program, which aimed to bring in speakers that would 'air contested issues' on campus.

Ferguson stepped down after emails leaked last week showed that he was conspiring with Republican students to gather 'opposition research' on a left-wing student activist.

After the emails were published by the Stanford Daily, Ferguson admitted he had made an 'error of judgment' but said he had become 'deeply concerned' that the program was being taken over by 'elements fundamentally hostile to free speech'.

Niall Ferguson, a conservative Stanford professor has resigned from a key position within the university's free speech program after he plotted to dig up dirt on a liberal student

Ferguson had sent an email to two Republican students, John Rice-Cameron and Max Minshull, saying that 'some opposition research on Mr O might also be worthwhile'.

He was referring to liberal Stanford student Michael Ocon.

Minshull, who was working as the professor's research assistant, responded in the emails saying he would 'get on' the research.

The other conservative student on the emails, Rice-Cameron, is the son of Barack Obama's former national security adviser Susan Rice.

In one email sent to the students, Ferguson wrote: 'Now we turn to the more subtle game of grinding them down on the committee. The price of liberty is eternal vigilance'.

He also suggested that the original Cardinal Conversations committee should 'all be allies against O. Whatever your past differences, bury them. Unite against the SJWs (social justice warriors)'.

He had sent an email to two Republican students, John Rice-Cameron (left) and Max Minshull (right), saying 'opposition research' on the student would be worthwhile

One of the conservative students included on the emails was Rice-Cameron, who is the son of Barack Obama's former national security adviser Susan Rice (pictured above)

Rice-Cameron responded to one of Ferguson's emails, saying: 'Slowly, we will continue to crush the Left's will to resist, as they will crack under pressure.'

Ferguson said his emails were prompted by student backlash to one of the program's speakers, Charles Murray - the social scientist who has controversial claims about links between race and IQ.

Murray gave a talk on February 22, which prompted some students to complain university's president about his inclusion in the program.

In a statement after the leaked emails were published, Ferguson said: 'I very much regret the publication of these emails. I also regret having written them.

'Having put a great deal effort into creating and organizing Cardinal Conversations, I was deeply concerned by the events before, during and after the event that took place on February 22.

'It seemed to me that the Cardinal Conversations student steering committee was in danger of being taken over by elements that were fundamentally hostile to free speech.

'It was, however, rash of me to seek to involve the Stanford Republicans, and reckless to use such inflammatory language.

'Realizing subsequently that I had made a serious error of judgment, I resigned from Cardinal Conversations on April 16.

'I remain hopeful that Cardinal Conversations will continue to foster free speech on the Stanford campus.'Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber laid into the House of Lords today for defying the 'will of the people' over Brexit.

The former Tory peer, who backed Remain in the referendum, said he felt his ex-colleagues had been 'wrong' to back a slew of amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill.

The government is facing a battle to overturn the raft of changes made to the flagship legislation in the Upper House.

Appearing on BBC One's Andrew Marr show today (pictured), Lord Lloyd Webber said he felt the amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill had been 'wrong'

The 15 amendments passed by peers include an effort to keep the UK in the EU single market and a custom union after Brexit - in defiance on the PM's red lines.

Another is designed to ensure the UK cannot leave the bloc unless a final deal is approved by parliament.

What are the 15 Brexit wrecking amendments passed by peers Here are the 15 Brexit Bill defeats inflicted by peers: Forces minsters to try to seek a customs union with the EU Keeps EU law relating to employment, consumer and environmental protections Keeps the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights Removes right of ministers to challenge EU law kept by the UK Allows Britons to bring legal cases when their rights, enshrined in EU law, are flouted Limits the scope of the Government's so-called Henry VII powers Gives Parliament a meaningful vote at the end of talks Gives parliament a veto on the Government's negotiating position Ministers must report on what they are doing to ensure refugee families reunited within Europe Ministers must abide by 1998 Good Friday Agreement Reaffirms that the UK can keep EU laws and stay in EU agencies Gives parliament a veto on the exit day Ministers must try to keep the UK in the EEA and therefore the EU single market Extends how EU laws will be trawled through by Parliament Enshrines EU environmental protections Advertisement

A further tweak would ensure the EU's environmental principles are enshrined in UK law.

Lord Lloyd Webber stepped down from the chamber last year to focus on his music, saying his work meant he was rarely able to attend.

His famous hit shows include Cats and Phantom of the Opera.

Appearing on BBC One's Andrew Marr show, Lord Lloyd Webber said he felt the amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill had been 'wrong'.

'I do not think that you can possibly be part of an unelected house and vote against the will of the people, that seems to me to be wrong,' he said.

'It's a difficult one, I myself felt that the House of Lords had become really very political.

'I joined it 20 years ago and I was put in then, and it was a very different place.'

The opposition to Brexit in the Lords has sparked calls in some quarters for the unelected chamber to be abolished altogether.

The Commons is due to start considering the Brexit Bill again over the coming weeks.

The latest rebuke for peers comes as Theresa May's negotiations with the EU reach a crucial stage.

A leaked Whitehall assessment has claimed Britain could suffer shortages of food and medicine within weeks of a 'Doomsday' no-deal Brexit.

It said the port of Dover could collapse almost immediately, and raised the prospect of food and medical supplies being flown into Cornwall and Scotland by the military.

But David Davis's Brexit Department played down the fears insisting a 'significant amount of work' had gone into planning for 'no deal' and 'none of this would come to pass'.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid also insisted he did not 'recognise' the chilling conclusions from the assessment.Antibiotics may significantly shorten the lives of cancer patients receiving immunotherapy treatment, a UK study has shown.

Taking the pills to treat minor infections could be unnecessarily affecting length of survival as GPs and oncologists were urged to prescribe with caution.

The researchers, from the NHS Christie Hospital in Manchester, said a balance must be struck between preventing serious infection in cancer patients and avoiding overuse of antibiotics.

Antibiotics may significantly shorten the lives of cancer patients receiving immunotherapy treatment, a UK study has shown

The study, presented at the American Society for Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting in Chicago, is thought to be the largest and 'most robust' of its kind.

Researchers analysed data from 303 patients with skin cancer, renal and lung cancer, who were treated with immunotherapy drugs' at Christie NHS Foundation Trust between 2015 and 2017.

Survival rates among patients who took antibiotics - at any point from two weeks before their immunotherapy started to six weeks after the treatment finished - were compared with patients who did not take any.

The antibiotic group lived for around 317 days while those who had not taken them survived for 651 days, the study found.

Patients who had used antibiotics over a longer period or been prescribed multiple courses lived for just 193 days.

Lead author Nadina Tinsley, clinical research fellow, said: 'Clearly antibiotics are a really important part of patient management and we need to treat serious infections and prevent life threatening infection, even death.

'But the challenge is striking the right balance between making sure that we identify those patients that are at risk of having a serious infection, without giving antibiotics for less justified indications and maybe overusing antibiotics.'

Co-author Matthew Krebs, consultant in experimental cancer medicine at the Christie Hospital, added: 'If someone is genuinely got a need, then of course they should receive antibiotics.

Taking the pills to treat minor infections could be unnecessarily affecting length of survival as GPs and oncologists were urged to prescribe with caution

'What we are saying is, think really carefully about it before you prescribe.'

Immunotherapy drugs work by stimulating the immune system to recognise and fight the cancer.

The treatment is only effective for an estimated 20% of patients, the researchers said, but scientists do not fully understand why.

Previous studies have suggested having more bacteria in the gut can improve how a patient responds to treatment.

It can take a number of weeks for bacteria to recover in the gut following a course of antibiotics.

The researchers said the effect of the pills in immunotherapy patients 'is potentially a big issue', as the treatment becomes more widely used as part of routine NHS care.

A 'large proportion' of cancer patients are likely to be prescribed antibiotics for an infection at some point, Ms Tinsley said.

Dr Sumanta Pal, oncologist and ASCO expert, said the British study was the 'most robust research to date' in the area.

'It ties into the theme of really not using antibiotics for frivolous or non-indicated uses,' he said.

'Perhaps other healthcare providers, beyond the oncologist, should engage the oncologist before prescribing to make sure they're truly indicated.'

Further research is needed to examine whether the effect of antibiotics on survival rates is limited to immunotherapy treatments, the authors said.President Donald Trump claims he never would have hired his campaign manager Paul Manafort if he had known he was being investigated for his work with the Ukraine and slammed the Department of Justice on Sunday for not telling him.

He argued he should have been told the information since he was a nominee for president.

He also mocked his own Justice Department by tweeting with the word 'Justice' in quote marks.

President Trump slammed the Justice Department in a tweet

Trump also criticized then FBI-director James Comey

'As only one of two people left who could become President, why wouldn't the FBI or Department of 'Justice' have told me that they were secretly investigating Paul Manafort (on charges that were 10 years old and had been previously dropped) during my campaign? Should have told me!,' he wrote.

He also claimed Manafort would have never joined his team if he had known, arguing then-FBI director James Comey should have told him.

'Paul Manafort came into the campaign very late and was with us for a short period of time (he represented Ronald Reagan, Bob Dole & many others over the years), but we should have been told that Comey and the boys were doing a number on him, and he wouldn't have been hired!,' he tweeted.

The president also cheered on conservative commentator Jesse Watters, who was on 'Fox and Friends' Sunday morning, for his comment about the Russian investigation into the 2016 election.

'Jesse Watters 'The only thing Trump obstructed was Hillary getting to the White House.' So true!,' the president wrote.

Manafort was involved in the Trump campaign for five months in 2016 and served as campaign chairman for three of those.

There was speculation that Trump's pardon of conservative writer Dinesh D'Souza and his musing he may offer pardons to others, like Martha Stewart, was a message to his allies that he has their backs.

But former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski told Fox News Sunday: 'This is not a sign.'

Manafort has been charged under special counsel Robert Mueller's probe of Russian's role in the 2016 election. He has plead not guilty in both cases.

CNN reported last year Manafort had been under FBI surveillance before and after the election. He has reportedly been under investigation since 2014.

He's scheduled for trial in Washington D.C. in September and in Alexandria, Va., in July on felony counts that include conspiracy, bank and tax fraud, money laundering and failing to register as a lobbyist in his work before 2014 on behalf of Ukraine's pro-Russian president at the time, Viktor Yanukovych.

He formally registered as a lobbyist for the Ukraine in June 2017, after his work for that country was revealed.

The Foreign Agents Registration Act is a disclosure statute that requires persons acting as agents of foreign principals in a political or quasi-political capacity to make periodic public disclosure of their relationship. The law included criminal penalties but is not always aggressively enforced.

Trump has long argued Mueller's investigation is a 'witch hunt.'

In early May, the president seized on a federal judge who accused Mueller's probe of trying to get Manafort to 'sing' simply to impeach Trump, telling a cheering crowd: 'I've been saying that for a long time. It's a witch hunt.'

President Donald Trump said he wouldn't have hired Paul Manafort as his campaign manger if he had known he was under investigation for his work with Ukraine

Paul Manafort has been charged under special counsel Robert Mueller's probe of Russian's role in the 2016 election. He has plead not guilty in both cases.

He spoke hours after U.S. Senior Judge T.S. Ellis III asked pointed questions about Mueller's authority to bring charges against Manafort - and suggested that prosecutors' true motive is getting Manafort to 'sing'.

He also called Manafort 'a nice guy' saying 'he worked for me for just a short period of time, a couple of months'.

And he said that Manafort had previously worked for Ronald Reagan, Bob Dole and 'I think' John McCain and added: 'Does anybody say that? No!'A leaked image from inside a federal court shows dozens of immigrants in orange jumpsuits with their hands and feet shackled in the process of undergoing a 'mass trial' in Texas.

Under the Trump administration's zero tolerance policy on illegal immigration, scenes like this one in Pecos, are becoming more the norm according The Intercept's reporter Debbie Nathan.

Because cameras are typically strictly forbidden in federal court, these new mass proceedings are an unfamiliar sight to those not present inside the courtrooms.

Nathan, who has been covering border and immigration issues for three decades, tells Chron.com he finds covering mass trials particularly upsetting.

A 'mass trial' of immigrants in the Trump administration's zero-tolerance policy has lead to scenes like this one in a federal court in Pecos, Texas

Many of the immigrants coming into the United States are poor families from crime ridden countries like El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. They often seek asylum citing the daily violence in their home countries.

Thousands of immigrants cross the US-Mexico border each week and immediately turn themselves in to authorities asking for asylum.

Last month attorney general Jeff Sessions announced a 'zero tolerance' policy that will see every unauthorized border crosser charged with a crime even before they can even request asylum.

'Today, we are here to send a message to the world: we are not going to let this country be overwhelmed... If you cross this border unlawfully, then we will prosecute you,' Sessions said last month.

In April alone, 50,924 people were detained after crossing the border without papers, including 4,314 unaccompanied children and 9,647 family units, according to US Customs and Border Patrol.

'The atmosphere is extremely subdued,' Nathan said. 'People are very exhausted, very demoralized ... You get the feeling that they don't know whats going on.'

Public defenders only have mere minutes to meet with each defendant, when the judge asks a question the entire room must answer in unison to save time.

Meanwhile many of those standing in the mass trials have no idea where their children are.

'It feels like an assembly line,' Nathan said. 'It's a mass production of guilty pleas.'

Under the Trump administrations zero tolerance policy on illegal immigrants, many are being charged with a crime before they can seek asylum

'It's horrible, I've been pretty broken by all of this,' she said.

The Obama administration occasionally held mass trials, but they have become a common occurrence under Trump.

The person who took this photo, while breaking the rules of federal court, is said to have felt compelled to do so after witnessing the effects of the Trump administration's policy first hand.

The fate of those in this photo is not known but similar cases can meet with a variety of outcomes.

In Brownsville, a small Texas city on the U.S.-Mexico border, federal magistrate Judge Ronald G. Morgan, recent cases have seen a blanket sentence for all of the defendants, according to The Intercept.

In one hearing for 32 defendants he handed down time served - no fine or further jail time and the convicts were sent to an ICE detention center to later be deported.

Before the zero tolerance policy began if a detainee expressed credible fear of returning to their home country then federal prosecutors would request that the criminal illegal entry charges be dropped and the person would be referred directly to the asylum system.

Immigrants who werent making asylum claims went through the criminal process.

Most pleaded guilty. Tje judge had the power to sentence first-time illegal entrants to six months in prison but most got time served and were then deported.

Those who claimed asylum would stay in U.S.  with their kids  while their cases proceeded.

The government sees the new policy as a necessary deterrent to illegal immigration, but the critics say it is cruel to refugees and asylum seekers fleeing violence in Central America to be separated from their children in the process.

'This attorney general made a decision to separate our kids from their parents. This is immoral, it's a crime, and we are not going to accept that,' said Gustavo Torres, executive director of the immigrant advocacy group CASA.

The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a lawsuit challenging the policy, calling it a violation of human rights.

'Separating families is more than cruel and unnecessary - it's torture,' the ACLU said.The British Army's headquarters now has gender-neutral toilets, it has emerged.

Signs referring to Ladies and Gentlemen at the Army's headquarters in Andover, Hampshire, have been removed in an effort to promote equality in the military.

Military officers have been warned they will not be promoted unless the 'inclusiveness and diversity' of units is improved, the Sun on Sunday reported.

But Colonel Richard Kemp, who led British troops in Afghanistan, hit out at Army chiefs for 'political correctness'.

Colonel Richard Kemp blasted Army chiefs for 'political correctness' over the recent changes

Gender neutral toilets have been brought in at the Army's main base in Andover, Wiltshire

He told the newspaper: 'Its quite shocking that the Army is being dragged into this whole world of political correctness.

'Given how stretched and how busy our forces are, it is surprising someone has time to worry about this sort of thing.'

An Army spokesperson said: 'We provide a range of toilet facilities for our personnel.'

Earlier this year former Army commanders have criticised a new 1.6million diversity campaign telling new recruits it is OK to cry, have feelings and pray.

Military officials launched a series of YouTube videos to encourage recruits from different backgrounds, genders, sexualities and faiths.

The scheme, which has seen a series of adverts broadcast on television, radio and digital platforms, is titled 'This Is Belonging 2018'.

The drive includes a series of animations on social media, among them films that ask: 'Can I be gay in the Army?' and 'What if I get emotional in the Army?'.

Another film, entitled Keeping My Faith, shows a Muslim soldier taking off his helmet and kneeling down in prayer while his comrades wait respectfully nearby.

Colonel Kemp and several other Army chiefs recently blasted a 1.6 million equality campaignSupermarket giants are urgently recalling sausage rolls, pasties and pies over fears they could be laced with wire.

Products with use-by dates between June 4 and 12 are being recalled by Tesco, Aldi and Nisa along with Walls and Millers.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) said both Addo and the companies it supplied were issuing product recalls 'because of potential contamination with small pieces of metal wire'.

In a Facebook post, Aldi said its supplier, Addo Food Group, advised 'as a precautionary measure' to recall items such as sausage rolls and minced steak slices as 'they may contain small pieces of metal'.

'Please do not consume this product' the Aldi post said.

'Customers are asked to return this product to the nearest store, where a full refund will be given.

'We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your co-operation.'

Tesco is one of the retailers which is returning the pastry products. Pictured, a stock picture of a Tesco Extra supermarket in London

Walls jumbo sausage rolls are among some of the Aldo products being recalled

A total of 59 products are being recalled, with Tesco having the most recalls at 22.

Aldi discovered 'the possible presence of small pieces of metal' in six of its products and is now urging retailers to return them to the store.

Customers are to be given full refunds on returned products and do not have to provide receipts.

Among the recalled products are Walls jumbo sausage rolls and Tesco own-brand steak shortcut pastry pies.

To see a full list of the affected products visit the FSA website.Advertisement

Prime Minister Theresa May and London Mayor Sadiq Khan have attended a service marking the first anniversary of the London Bridge terror attack in which eight people were killed.

A 700-strong congregation at Southwark Cathedral this afternoon remembered those who died and were hurt and honoured the emergency services' response to the attack last year.

Dozens more were injured during the June 3 violence when a terrorist trio drove a van into pedestrians on London Bridge before stabbing revellers in nearby Borough Market with 12-inch ceramic knives.

Khuram Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30, and Youssef Zaghba, 22, were shot dead by police just eight minutes after the first emergency call was made.

After today's service there was a procession from the cathedral to Southwark Needle, at the corner of London Bridge and Duke Street Hill, where a minute's silence was held at 4.30pm.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, Prime Minister Theresa May and Home Secretary Sajid Javid (left to right) at Southwark Gateway Needle. Mrs May and Mr Javid bow their heads during the minute's silence

A minute's silence is held at the corner of London Bridge and Duke Street Hill at today's commemoration

Prime Minister Theresa May arrives at Southwark Cathedral today to attend a ceremony marking the first anniversary of the London Bridge terror attack

Crowds gather at London Bridge for a minute's silence to remember the victims of the terror attack last year

Home Secretary Sajid Javid also attended Southwark Cathedral for the service, along with Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott.

Candles were lit by relatives of the victims during the private ceremony, before an olive tree - known as the Tree of Healing - was planted in the cathedral grounds using compost from floral tributes left on the bridge.

A floral wreath from Prime Minister Theresa May laid at Southwark Needle read: 'We will never forget those who died and will never surrender to hatred and division.'

Sadiq Khan's tribute read: 'Our city will never forget you. We stand united against terrorism and together in remembering the innocent lives lost.'

Ahead of the day's commemorative events, the Prime Minister recalled the 'stories of courage' which emerged from the attack.

She described it as a 'cowardly attempt to strike at the heart of our freedoms by deliberately targeting people enjoying their Saturday night with friends and family'.

Mrs May said: 'Today we remember those who died and the many more who were injured, and also pay tribute to the bravery of our emergency services and those who intervened or came to the aid of others.

'The many stories of courage demonstrated that night will always stay with me - such as Ignacio Echeverria, who died after confronting the terrorists with the only thing he had, his skateboard, and Geoff Ho, who spent almost two weeks in hospital after being stabbed in the neck as he shielded his friends.'

Theresa May arrives at Southwark Cathedral for the service of commemoration to remember the victims of the London Bridge attack

Prime Minister Theresa May speaks to Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn as she arrives for the London Bridge commemoration ceremony

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and shadow home secretary Diane Abbott arrive for the service

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and shadow home secretary Diane Abbott arrive for the service

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan at a service of commemoration at Southwark Cathedral today

Cressida Dick, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service, arrives for today's service

Home Secretary Sajid Javid arrives at Southwark Cathedral to attend the London Bridge terror attack commemoration service

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaks to Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn as he arrives for the commemoration service at Southwark Cathedral

Dean of Southwark Andrew Nunn speaks to the 700-strong congregation at Southwark Cathedral

The Prime Minister said the fact that seven of the eight victims came from outside Britain - from France, Spain, Australia and Canada - was 'a reflection of our great cosmopolitan capital, whose energy and values brings together people from across the world, and a tragic reminder that the threat from terrorism transcends borders and impacts us all.'

'Our resolve to stand firm and overcome this threat together has never been stronger,' she said.

Those killed in the attack were Canadian Christine Archibald, 30, James McMullan, 32, from Hackney, Frenchmen Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sebastien Belanger, 36 and Xavier Thomas, 45, Australians Kirsty Boden, 28 and Sara Zelenak 21, and Spaniard Ignacio Echeverria, 39.

The Dean of Southwark Cathedral Andrew Nunn read the names of those killed in the attack as he welcomed their families and friends, others who were injured in the attack and dignitaries to the service.

Photographs of the people killed in the 2017 terror attack were displayed on London Bridge

Flowers are placed alongside photographs of the people killed in the London Bridge attack

Flowers are placed alongside photographs of the people killed in the London Bridge attack

Photographs of the people killed in the London Bridge attack are displayed on London Bridge

Prime Minister Theresa May listens during today's service of commemoration at Southwark Cathedral

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn listens during today's service of commemoration at Southwark Cathedral

He said: 'I hope it helps our healing. Whatever your hopes are, whatever your pain is, whatever has kept you awake at night, whatever anger, sorrow or guilt you are feeling: God is here for you.

'Love is stronger than hate, light is stronger than darkness and life is stronger than death.

'It was true a year ago. It is as true today.'

A group called Turn To Love held placards bearing slogans of hope near London Bridge.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, Prime Minister Theresa May and Home Secretary Sajid Javid (left to right) at Southwark Gateway Needle on the south side of London Bridge ahead of a minute's silence to mark one year since the terror attack

Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn lay flowers after the minute's silence at London Bridge

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan and Prime Minister Theresa May at Southwark Gateway Needle ahead of the minute's silence

Prime Minister Theresa May holds flowers ahead of a minute's silence to mark one year since the London Bridge terror attack

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, Prime Minister Theresa May and Home Secretary Sajid Javid (left to right) hold floral tributes at Southwark Gateway Needle ahead of a minute's silence

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan (centre), Home Secretary Sajid Javid (third from right) and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (second from right) make their way to London Bridge for the minute's silence

Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott (left) and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn make their way to London Bridge to lay flowers ahead of the minute's silence for the victims of the 2017 attack

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Bishop of Southwark Christopher Chessun hold flowers at Southwark Gateway Needle ahead of a minute's silence

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, Prime Minister Theresa May and Home Secretary Sajid Javid (left to right) hold floral tributes at Southwark Gateway Needle ahead of a minute's silence

Prime Minister Theresa May lays flowers during the ceremony to mark a year since the London Bridge terror attack

Prime Minister Theresa May lays flowers during the ceremony to mark a year since the London Bridge terror attack

Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott (second from right) and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (far right) lay flowers during the ceremony to mark a year since the London Bridge terror attack

A woman carries floral tributes to London Bridge on the first anniversary of the attack

People embrace at the service of commemoration for victims of the 2017 London Bridge attack

Members of the public hold back tears during the service of commemoration for victims of the 2017 London Bridge attack

Families of the victims make their way to a minute's silence for the victims of the 2017 London Bridge terror attack

Families of the victims make their way to a minute's silence for the victims of the 2017 London Bridge terror attack

People gather with placards on London Bridge on the first anniversary of the terror attack

People gather with placards on London Bridge on the first anniversary of the terror attack

A message written on a floral tribute by Cressida Dick, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, is displayed

A message written on a floral tribute by Cressida Dick, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, reads: 'Everyone who lost their lives and who are still in pain are in the thoughts of the officers and staff of the Metropolitan Police'

People gathering on London Bridge with flowers during the service of commemoration

A man holds a poster on the south side of London Bridge ahead of a minute's silence to mark one year since the terror attack

Crowds hold posters of support at Southwark Gateway Needle ahead of a minute's silence to mark one year since the terror attack on London Bridge and Borough

Police patrolling the south side of London Bridge ahead of the service of commemoration at Southwark Cathedral

A police dog and its handler perform checks of London Bridge ahead of the service of commemoration for victims of the London Bridge terror attack

Project manager Qayum Mannan, 27, said: 'It's about standing together against terror, against evil. Regardless of background we can beat those who would drive us apart. They want us divided.'

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the city would honour the victims of terror attacks 'through our actions and standing united against terrorism and in hope for the future'.

He said: 'Our city faced some incredibly difficult times last year, with the terrorist attacks in Westminster, London Bridge, Finsbury Park and Parsons Green.

'The cowardly terrorists who commit these horrific acts do so to try to divide us, to fuel fear and to change how we treat one another. I'm proud of the way we have responded: standing united in defiance and staying true to our values and way of life.'Academics will argue that the unsightly image of Queen Elizabeth I in later life has been too greatly magnified by film and TV in years gone by.

The Tudor Monarch who reigned from 1558 until 1603 is routinely reimagined with a grotesque visual appearance in drama adaptations.

Numerous portrayals of 'Good Queen Bess' in this ghastly light has seemingly left a lasting impression.

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The perception of Queen Elizabeth I, seen here being payed by Dame Judi Dench in award-winning 1998 drama Shakespeare In Love, as hideous is greatly exaggerated according to academics

The final Tudor monarch is routinely represented as balding, with black teeth, black skin and lurid orange wig

Queen Elizabeth I's grotesque perception is based on a poem rather than historic paintings

But they are not entirely accurate, say University College London professors Helen Hackett and Karen Hearn.

The pair, who will deliver a lecture at the university's Festival of Culture tomorrow, say people should look past famed performances of Dame Judi Dench and Anita Dobson for a more accurate representation of Queen Elizabeth I.

Hackett told The Sunday Times viewers have been deceived by the image of Elizabeth with flaking white make-up, cracked black teeth and lurid orange wig.

'While evidence for what (Queen Elizabeth I) was like at 60 is of course mixed, only the less attractive details of some accounts have been picked up by popular culture and often exaggerated to a hideous degree.'

Glenda Jackson and Anita Dobson as 'hideous' versions of the Queen

Hackett and Hearn lay the blame of Elizabeth's so-called misinterpretation at the feet of Sir Walter Raleigh.

THE VIRGIN QUEEN'S ICONIC AND ELABORATE MAKE UP ROUTINE Queen Elizabeth I is widely believed to have mixed red dye with mercuric sulphide for her red lips  and possibly her rosy cheeks. It was dabbed on after she pasted white lead and vinegar over her face and neck. Kohl, a black lead sulphide, was used to outline her eyes to make them appear whiter and brighter  a trick still in vogue today. She plucked her hair line back by about an inch to increase the size of her forehead, and also plucked her eyebrows to make them appear more arched and fair. With poor dental care, she was forced to have teeth removed - which she hid by stuffing rags in the gaps. Advertisement

Raleigh, a poet and one-time favourite courtier of the Queen, was locked up in the Tower of London in 1592 after impregnating one of Elizabeth's maids of honour.

It is believed his unflattering lyrics about her appearance have fuelled a more negative theory about her iconic looks.

What is known however is women during Eliabethan times went to great lengths to maintain pale smooth skin, regarded as a sign of wealth and class.

Tanned skin, blemishes, sunburn, or freckles were reserved for lower ranking members of society who toiled on the land, while the upper classes relaxed indoors.

Hackett and Hearn pinpoint two historic paintings of Elizabeth and what they believe to be more accurate visuals of what she perhaps looked like at age 60.

They said Isaac Oliver's illustration in the Victoria and Albert museum and the Ditchley portrait by Marcus Gheeraerts in the National Portrait Gallery hold the key to how she really looked.

Sir Walter Raleigh is to blame for the unflattering portrait that has become common in TV and film historians say

Isaac Oliver's 'The Rainbow Portrait' portraying Elizabeth I is believed to be a more accurate representation of her visual appearance in later life

Contemporaries at the time believed beauty amplified female power, something that played into Elizabeth's favour early in her 45-year reign.

Although she aged ungracefully, suffered from balding and her teeth were ruined.

This was not due to the fact that dental hygiene was considered unimportant at the time, a common misconception critics argue, but instead that it was during Elizabeth's time on the throne that sugar first hit British shores.A five-year-old boy who has been in hospital for a year undergoing treatment for a rare kidney disease has been hit with another setback after his family's car exploded into flames when he was finally on his way home.

Jaxson Oliphant and his family had just set off on the six hour drive back to his home in Ashland, Wisconsin on Saturday when smoke started seeping out from under the hood of the car.

Moments later, the vehicle exploded and was engulfed in flames on Highway 41.

Jaxson Oliphant and his family had just set off on the six hour drive from the hospital back to his home in Ashland, Wisconsin on Saturday when their car exploded into flames

His mother Lindsey Oliphant rushed to get Jaxson out of the car, while his 15-year-old brother Tony managed to grab the little boy's wheelchair and three oxygen tanks.

'We couldn't grab anything else. By that time the flames were up in the air,' Jaxson's mother told WISN.

All of his medicine and other medical equipment perished in the car fire.

'I just feel like I can't get a break,' Lindsey said.

'At least the kids are okay. From Jax I've learned you can't take things for granted because it could be taken away in the blink of an eye.'

The little boy has been undergoing treatment at the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin for 11 months after suffering chronic kidney disease and lung issues.

His mother Lindsey Oliphant rushed to get Jaxson out of the car (pictured above), while his 15-year-old brother Tony managed to grab the little boy's wheelchair and three oxygen tanks

The little boy has been undergoing treatment at the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin for 11 months after suffering chronic kidney disease and lung issues

Jaxson's mother Lindsey said all of her son's medicine and other medical equipment perished in the car fire

He has already undergone multiple surgeries, including two liver transplants and the removal of half his large and small intestines and part of his bowel.

Jaxson has also suffered a stroke and regular seizures.

He was finally given the all-clear to go home last week but will have to return to the hospital for monthly visits.

'I don't know how I'm going to get there,' Lindsey told People. 'If he gets a fever I'll have to take him immediately.

'Nothing of my car is left. I feel overwhelmed.

'I don't know how to explain it. I feel like every time we do good, something bad happens.'

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help the Oliphant family recover the costs associated with their car.A 15-year-old gatecrasher has been denied bail after allegedly hacking two men with a machete when they refused to let him into a 'gangster-themed' birthday party.

Liam Hamilton was celebrating his 16th birthday with a group of friends and family at his home in Quakers Hill, in Sydney's west, on Saturday night.

The party was reportedly coming to a close at 10.30pm when his brother Corey and friend David Davis, both 22, tried to move on a group of gatecrashers who arrived.

Both Corey and David were allegedly stabbed with a 50cm machete by the boy, 15, and then set upon by a large group of gatecrashers - sparking an all-in brawl.

Corey suffered deep wounds to his arm and David remained in Westmead Hospital on Sunday night with a punctured lung after being stabbed in the back.

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An accused gatecrasher, 15, has been denied bail after allegedly hacking two men with a machete when they told him he wasn't welcome at a 'gangster-themed' 16th birthday party (pictured is one of the victims being taken to hospital)

Corey Hamilton (right) and David Davis (left) were rushed to hospital after being stabbed at the party. Corey suffered a punctured lung and is in a serious condition after undergoing surgery

Five men and six teenage boys were arrested by police over an all-in brawl outside the home in Quakers Hill, western Sydney. They were all released without charge on Sunday morning

'Our boys out the front said sorry guys the party is over,' Liam's mother told The Daily Telegraph.

'They tried to move them on and the boys just jumped on David, the one that's still in hospital, because they told them to go,' she said.

Five men, aged between 18 and 20, and six teenage boys, aged between 15 and 17, were arrested at the scene and taken to Riverstone Police Station.

Police waited for those arrested to sober up overnight before they began to interview them on Sunday morning.

Youths refused to comment to waiting media scrums outside of the police station on Sunday morning after being released without charge.

They were all released apart from the charged 15-year-old.

Liam Hamilton (pictured) was celebrating his 16th birthday when brother Corey Hamilton and friend David Davis, both 22, tried to move on a group of gatecrashers

Youths refused to comment to waiting media scrums outside of the police station on Sunday morning after being released without charge

Forensic investigators were at the family home on Sunday to examine the crime scene, while police called for anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.

A witness claimed there were over 70 people in the street when the brawl broke.

'Just a bunch of boys punching on and a lot of girls screaming. I head them throwing glass and stuff,' the witness said.

'We had one car blocking the street and they were all trying to get out on the street. it was crazy.'

Both of the men with stab wounds were taken by NSW Ambulance paramedics to Westmead Hospital after the incidentJeremy Corbyn has insisted he wants to hand the Elgin Marbles back to Greece if he becomes Prime Minister.

The Labour leader made clear he viewed the ancient statues as 'stolen' and they should be returned.

Many Parthenon sculptures have been housed in the British Museum since 1816 after they were bought by the government from Lord Elgin.

Greece has long campaigned for their repatriation, but supporters insist they were purchased legitimately and have been painstakingly preserved in the UK.

Many Parthenon sculptures have been housed in the British Museum since 1816 after they were bought by the government from Lord Elgin

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (pictured in London today) made clear he viewed the ancient statues as 'stolen' and they should be returned

There have been warnings that giving back the artefacts would trigger requests from dozens of other countries for the repatriation of artworks in British museums.

In an interview with Greek newspaper Ta Nea, Mr Corbyn reiterated his opinion that 'the Parthenon sculptures belong to Greece'.

'They were made in Greece and have been there for many centuries until Lord Elgin took them,' he said.

'As with everything stolen or removed from a country that was in the possession or colony - including objects looted from other countries in the past - we should also begin constructive talks with the Greek government on the return of the sculptures.'

But former culture minister Ed Vaizey said Mr Corbyn's comments raised serious concerns about Labour's attitude towards the arts.

'The British Museum is independent of government and it is their decision what happens to the Elgin Marbles,' he said.

'If Corbyn is saying a Labour government is going to ride roughshod over the independence of our museums then what will be next? Will he start dictating what plays can be put on at the national Theatre or what exhibitions can be hosted by our art galleries?

'He is entitled to his personal opinion but it worries me that he would use his power as prime minister to breach a fundamental principle of how we run the arts in this country.'

Mr Corbyn was a strong supporter of repatriating the marbles before he became Labour leader.

Former culture minister Ed Vaizey said Mr Corbyn's comments suggested he would use his power as PM to breach the independence of the British Museum. Pictured is the PIlissos statue, part of the collection in London

The sculptures used to be on the Parthenon at the top of the Acropolis in Athens.

They were removed by Elgin between 1799 and 1810 after he received permission from the Ottoman empire, which ruled Greece at the time.

Elgin claimed he was worried about damage being done to the marbles, but their removal was criticised at the time by figures including Lord Byron.

According to a House of Commons briefing paper from last year, the UK government's position is that 'issues relating to the ownership and management of the Parthenon sculptures are matters for the trustees of the British Museum'.